The word "pergola" describes an outdoor, freestanding or attached airy structure that provides a modicum of shade to a particular area. It can be large, encompassing a wide gathering area, or small, perhaps over a doorway, or garage, or seating area. They can be elaborate, with Doric columns as supports and a shingled roof, or made with very simply, with 2x4's and 4x4 posts, and no roof at all, just slats. Often, they are is associated with purposefully grown vines adorning them as well.
Regardless of their size, scale, or building materials, being able to use the word "pergola" to describe a real estate listing has the most amazing equity-enhancing quality that can pay off big-time for homeowners and investors whom are preparing a home for sale. Not every home has a pergola but those that do and listed it as a selling feature in their advertising, sold for 4% more on average than expected, according to Zillow.
Apparently, this can be a mighty valuable word. Pergolas provide both beauty and function, like a relaxing spot for reading a book, or having a glass of cool tea with a friend, or a cocktail with someone who is more than a friend. Apparently buyers picture all sorts of fun shenanigans happening under a pergola.
As a seller or investor, you can really cash in on this whole pergola thing. Adding a pergola may not be the right option for every home. Ask your local professional home stager for answers as to ROI on upgrades on your specific property.
For some great DIY pergola-building plans, go to www.pergolakitsusa.com.
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Author Bio: Melissa Marro, Home Staging Industry leader, Realtor, and entrepreneur offers a unique perspective on New Home Construction, Resale Residential Real Estate, and Home Staging
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For more information on buying or selling in the Fleming Island, Orange Park, or Jacksonville, area, visit StageListSellNEFL.com or call Melissa Marro (marro.melissa at gmail.com), Keller Williams First Coast Realty, for more information (904-466-2093).
