Whether you love entertaining guests for dinner parties, weekend gatherings, or holiday celebrations, having a home designed for hosting can make all the difference. Not only does it enhance your lifestyle, but a well-thought-out hosting home can also significantly increase the value of your property.
“Buyers today are looking for homes that offer both functionality and comfort, and a great hosting setup can be a major selling point,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
Below, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares some essential tips to help you transform your space into a welcoming haven for guests while boosting your home’s market appeal.
Create an open plan layout
Homes with open-concept designs are highly desirable among buyers, often commanding higher prices and faster sales. Where possible, remove any barriers between the kitchen, dining, and living areas to foster a more inclusive atmosphere, ensuring no one feels left out during gatherings.
Covered outdoor entertainment area
If you have outdoor space, make the most of it. A well-designed patio, deck, or garden area can extend your hosting space and add valuable square meterage to your property. Add comfortable outdoor seating, good lighting, and weather-appropriate accessories like outdoor fans or heaters to enhance your entertaining experience.
Immersive cooking experience
A large island with barstools serves as a social hub and a sought-after feature for modern homebuyers. Having a kitchen that opens up onto the outdoor entertainment space is another massive value-add, as it means less time for the host to be away from their guests while preparing the meal.
Guest-Friendly Amenities
Ensure your home has all the essentials to keep guests comfortable. If possible, make sure the guest bathroom has ample privacy so guests don’t feel uncomfortable when they have to use the facilities. A well-appointed guest space can also be another key selling point for buyers looking for a home that accommodates visitors.
Whether hosting an intimate dinner or a lively party, a well-prepared home can be an investment in both your lifestyle and your real estate portfolio. “If you are planning to undertake any renovation, and you are unsure whether they will add value, speak to your local RE/MAX agent to gain some insights into what buyers are looking for in your area,” says Goslett.
Home-Dzine offers tips on choosing patio furniture:
If you need to think about replacing your garden furniture, before you do, first prepare a plan or drawing of your patio area complete with exact measurements. You don't want to end up with furniture that is too big, or too small, for the space that you have available. If you do not have enough space then maybe you should plan to build a bigger deck or patio first.
There are plenty of different materials used to make patio furniture. Remember what your main use of the patio will be, that will help you decide on your purchase. How much care do you want to put into looking after the patio furniture? Do you want to put it away every night? Most people want to leave their patio furniture right where it is all summer. Therefore, you will need something that can stand up to the elements.
- Wooden patio furniture needs protecting with oil regularly unless you choose to paint it or perhaps you will decide to keep that rustic grey 'weathered' look. Teak has natural oils that protect it from the environment, combining durability, beauty and quality great looking outdoor furniture. Teak will naturally weather to a beautiful silver-grey.
- Additionally, the density of the grain prevents it from splintering. That is the reason why ship builders used it for the ships decks. You can keep the golden appearance of new teak patio furniture by simply oiling the teak every year if you do not wish for it to turn a silvery grey.
- Steel furniture, such as aluminum, is lightweight and is perfect for a low maintenance patio setting, while wrought iron patio furniture is an old favourite and suitable for almost any patio setting.
- Wicker outdoor patio furniture coupled with the long lasting qualities of resin is also an option. Cafe style, patio furniture is great for a quick break from your gardening.
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