Preparing Your Deck for Resale: Tips for Increasing Home Value

When it comes to selling your home in Boise, don’t underestimate the power of a great deck. A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed deck can make a lasting impression on buyers—and even increase your home’s resale value. At Boise Deck Builders, we’ve worked with countless homeowners across Ada and Canyon counties who are getting ready to sell. Whether your deck needs a refresh or a full update, here are some smart ways to boost its appeal before you list your home.

Clean, Repair, and Refresh

The first step is giving your deck a thorough cleaning. Power wash away dirt, moss, and stains to instantly brighten its appearance. For wood decks, consider re-staining or sealing the surface to make it look newer and help protect against the elements. Composite decks should be scrubbed with the appropriate cleaner to bring back their original color and shine.

Look closely for signs of damage. Loose boards, wobbly railings, or rusted fasteners send red flags to potential buyers. Repairing these small issues shows buyers that your home has been cared for and gives them confidence in the quality of your outdoor living space.

Replace Outdated or Worn-Out Features

If your deck is showing its age, a few upgrades can go a long way. Swapping out an old railing for a modern cable or metal design instantly updates the entire space. Replacing old wood boards with composite materials adds long-term value and tells buyers they won’t have to worry about constant maintenance.

Even updating smaller items—like post caps, lighting, or stair treads—can give your deck a more polished, contemporary look without requiring a major investment.

Stage It Like You Would Indoors

Buyers love being able to picture themselves living in a space, and that includes the backyard. Set up your deck with cozy furniture, a dining table, or an outdoor rug to help people see the possibilities. Add a few potted plants for color, and maybe some string lights or lanterns to make the area feel more inviting.

Staging shows off how functional and enjoyable the space can be. A blank or cluttered deck doesn’t inspire much imagination—so treat it like an extension of your home’s interior and make it look move-in ready.

Focus on Safety and Code Compliance

Safety matters, especially to buyers with kids or pets. Make sure your railings meet current building codes and that stair treads and risers are even and secure. If your deck is older, it might be worth having a professional inspection done so you can fix any problems before your home goes on the market.

At Boise Deck Builders, we know the local codes inside and out and can make recommendations or upgrades to ensure your deck is both beautiful and compliant.

Highlight Entertaining Potential

Outdoor entertaining is a major selling point in Boise, especially during the warmer months. If your deck offers great flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, make that a focal point in your listing photos or showings. Buyers will love the idea of hosting summer BBQs, enjoying evenings around a fire pit, or simply unwinding with a view of the sunset.

If your deck has built-in seating, lighting, or shade features, make sure they’re clean, functional, and easy to show off. These features add both convenience and appeal, especially to buyers who want to enjoy their new deck from day one.

Consider Strategic Upgrades for ROI

You don’t need to completely rebuild your deck to get a return on your investment. Strategic upgrades—like resurfacing, adding a small privacy screen, or replacing worn railings—can increase both the perceived and actual value of your home.

A composite resurface project, for example, can make your deck look brand new while saving you money compared to a full replacement. And because buyers increasingly prioritize low-maintenance materials, upgrades like this make your home more competitive on the market.

Work with the Pros for a Smooth Sale

If you’re getting your deck ready to impress buyers, it helps to work with experienced professionals who understand both design and function. At Boise Deck Builders, we offer expert consultations and custom solutions to help you prep your deck for resale with confidence.

We’ve spent decades serving homeowners across Ada and Canyon counties, and we know what buyers are looking for in today’s market. We also provide FREE estimates, and financing is always an option if you want to make improvements without tapping into savings before your home sells.

Ready to Maximize Your Deck’s Value?

Prepping your deck for resale doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few thoughtful updates and the right team by your side, you can turn your outdoor space into a major asset that helps your home sell faster—and for more.

Visit boisedeckbuilders.com to schedule your free estimate. Let Boise Deck Builders help you get your deck in top shape and make your Boise home stand out to buyers.