What to do with this backyard?

Question

Hi guys, I am a buy and hold investor with a fourplex and a backyard. I would like to do something to spice this up a little bit. This is half of the yard, the other half looks very much the same.

I am not going to subdivide it for now, so I want to have some fun.

Any ideas?

Thanks

Account Closed · Answer

Hello-

In all honesty, that looks like a pretty nice backyard, and I'm not sure why you feel the need to spice it up, but regardless building a deck could be a solid idea. It would cut down a little bit on your mowing, if you're even a little bit handy you could build it yourself with some reclaimed wood, and if you make it small/low-to-the-ground, you might not even need a building permit. Plus your tenants will enjoy it and it might add some resale value to the house.

Chris T. · Answer

i agree with @Colleen F.

if your budget allows, a brick patio would be the way to go. Almost zero maintenance as long as it is done right. If not, maybe a stamped concrete patio?

With a wood deck, you need to power wash / stain etc. Key word is LOW maintenance.

Build an area for a raised gardening bed for tenants. The more work they put in, the more pride they will have in taking care of your building.

Tom Keith · Answer

@Wade Garrett That is a good looking back yard.  I did see your chain link fence stands out with that white fencing that borders the entire back.  Your Side fence is out of sink as the top rail is below the fence and does not match.  If you have a desire to jaz it up a little you can work on the fence and just keep plants, shrubs, and trees trimmed up correctly.  Putting in a deck and maybe a grill for the adults and let children play in your great looking backyard.

Colleen F. · Answer

Who mows the lawn?  If it is you I would do a brick patio. Saves  the mower from having to move the chairs and tables that wind up on the lawn. If each unit does not have their own specific space I would put the patio, chairs and a table or two smaller tables Maybe an arrangement of colorful adirondike chairs (very durable).  I would be inclined to put it in the shade and where it is easy to mow around or doesn't need to be mowed around. Could make a nice path to it.  Play areas not so much but most people like to sit outside. If you will divide the lawn make it so you could divide the patio down the road.

Neil G. · Answer

Ecology, conservation (including water & oxygen)  and food/nutrients should be paramount. Thus, a veggy garden, and/or fruit trees and/or some native shelter for native fauna, and doing away with some or all the ornamental high-maintenance groundcover they call 'LAWN' all come to mind.

Patrick Liska · Answer

Horse shoe pits, a curved flower garden path leading to a gazebo or secluded seating area, patio. stay away from any fire or water elements for liability reasons, just make it fun and enjoyable for the tenants.