Some advantages of having a large backyard are obvious. A large family home with a spacious yard may sell quicker than a similar home that doesn’t have a big backyard, for example. However, this isn’t the only reason that you might love having a home with a big backyard. Here are eight reasons why you should consider homes with large backyards when you're house hunting.

Kids

A large backyard gives your kids a safe place to play, and yet at the same time, room to wander and explore. For your kids, your backyard could become the place where they learn to love science and the natural world. Butterflies, earthworms and the budding trees of spring all offer rich opportunities for exploration and fun.

The backyard is also a place for building tree houses or forts, learning how to do cartwheels and just lounging around, looking up at the sky. Adding playground equipment, like a swing set, also means your kids can get all the exercise they normally get at the park without you all having to leave the comfort and safety of home.

Love of Nature

According to Purple Heart Moving Group, having a large backyard gives nature lovers a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful sights in the world. Your yard becomes a delight when little squirrels come to play and hummingbirds hover near your feeders.

A big backyard also gives you a first-hand glimpse of the seasons as they change. You’ll be the first to notice the buds on the forsythia tree becoming yellow flowers. You’ll witness bees on the hunt in the rose bushes, and you’ll learn to slow down and enjoy the peace that only comes from being in nature. In fact, it has been said that those who spend time in nature heal faster than those who have no such contact with the natural world.

Entertainment Area

According to Keystone Custom Decks, a covered pergola or patio is great for nature lovers who plan on spending a lot of time in their backyard. They can be customized to have a mini kitchen, an entertainment center, and so much more. A big backyard allows you to extend your home’s entertaining space: Just imagine turning your deck into an outdoor living room or kitchen.

The beauty of doing this is that outdoor rooms never feel cramped. Aside from that, it’s hard to beat the decorating power of Mother Nature. These spaces are serene and welcoming. They’re perfect for dinner parties, retirement celebrations and more.

Appreciate Privacy

By their design, big backyards put space between you and your closest neighbors. This is doubly true if you also have a large privacy fence. According to Crazy Dad Life, this not only gives you the privacy you crave, it also provides you with a built-in noise buffer. These two elements ultimately lead to feelings of freedom and contentment because you can relax in your yard without worrying about disturbing your neighbors or them disturbing you.

Pool Area

Few things beat playing in a pool when the summer months begin to heat up, and the bigger the backyard, the bigger the pool area can be. This is particularly important if you want to add other features, like a hot tub or sauna. Pools are great because they also add another entertainment element to your house parties. If you love to entertain at home, then a large yard with a pool is an entertaining bonus feature.

Homesteading and Gardening

Homesteading and backyard gardening have become popular in recent years. These days, many people look for homes with more backyard space for this very reason. Extra space gives you room for a compost pile, a vegetable garden and even space to raise chickens in municipalities where they're allowed. There is also room to add a shed for your canning if your home is zoned for that.

Many people use homesteading and backyard gardening as steps toward a debt-free life. By raising their own food, they reduce or eliminate the need to shop as much. This allows them to put the money they’d spend on food toward other costs, including debt.

Add-On Space

Adding on to your home is no problem if you have a spacious backyard. This offers you a great advantage if you need a mother-in-law unit or want to create a separate space for your college-aged kids. This expands the livable space in your home without forcing you to move.

Keep in mind that your home’s original plans may not include add-ons. In light of that, it is wise to talk to the real estate agent who is selling you the house or your city’s planning and zoning commission. You will want to do this research before you start making plans to tear down walls and break new ground or you could find yourself in hot water with the city.

Income Possibilities

Big income opportunities come with a big backyard. Your vegetable garden could allow you to become a local fixture at the farmer’s market. According to The Penny Hoarder, some savvy home farmers make $500 to $1000 a week selling the foodstuffs they’ve grown in their backyards.

Or, if you have space to add a tiny house on your property, you could also set up an Airbnb business. While it’s always possible to make a nice income as a landlord, the profits from letting out an Airbnb tend to be better. An apartment that you rent for $1500 a month can be rented for $150 a night as an Airbnb rental. This means that you make $1500 in 10 days instead of 30 days. It also means that you have another 20 days in the month to make $150 a night. This adds up quickly.

Big backyards can equal big opportunities. They give your family a place to learn and play and entertain. They become the basis for science exploration or even new streams of income. While they may also come with a lot of work, the work is worth it in the long run. Ultimately, a big backyard means freedom.

If you’re looking for a house with a big backyard, contact me so I can help you find one!