Backyard Vibes That Make Buyers Smile (and You Too)!
It’s that time of year again – MY FAVORITE! The warm temperatures and sunshine are in full swing, and it's the perfect season to create some unforgettable summer memories filled with fun, laughter, or just plain relaxation. Whether it’s an evening of outdoor games, family stories shared around the fire pit, or even a backyard campout, you’re sure to have a delightful time – and you might even boost your home’s charm and value in the process. Which of these ideas will you incorporate this summer?
· DIY Tiki Bar: Construct your Tiki Bar with bamboo or wood to make a thatched roof, add tiki torches, string lights, and tropical plants. Don’t forget to create a counter to serve tropical drinks. Remember to set the mood by having island music playing.
· Movie Night: You’ll need a projector, a projection screen, blank wall, or hang a sheet on the fence. Lots of cushions, blankets, and chairs will be just the ticket for a cozy seating area. Set the stage by choosing a fun theme for your event. Decorate the movie area according to your movie choice and have your guests participate by dressing in the theme. Make sure to have snacks like popcorn, boxed candy, and drinks.
· DIY Fire Pit: Bobvila.com shares these construction tips:
o Check local ordinances to ensure that fire pits are allowed in your area.
o Choose a safe, sensible location for your fire pit.
§ Flat ground, 10-15 feet from flammable structures, and clear away low tree branches.
o Stake out the shape and size of your DIY fire pit – the recommended diameter for a round fire pit is between 36 and 44 inches.
o Excavate at least 8 inches of dirt within the fire pit ring.
o Fill the excavated area with a layer of sand – 2-inch-thick layer that is tamped down and leveled.
o Begin laying the concrete retaining wall.
§ Lay one course of concrete retaining wall blocks around the edge of the pit (level by tapping them with a rubber mallet)
o If needed, add construction adhesive to the wall blocks.
o Continue laying the concrete retaining wall blocks.
§ To promote air circulation around the fire, leave small, intermittently located gaps between the blocks.
o Add a layer of gravel on top of the sand and complete the installation.
§ Add about 4 inches of crushed stone, then lay down your final two rings of blocks.
o For best results, add a fire pit insert or liner.
· Stock Tank Pool: This is an inexpensive way to cool off during those hot summer days.
· Inflatable Backyard Hot Tub: Make certain to set it on a durable and weather resistant surface surround to keep it secure and stable.
· Glow-in-the-Dark Games: Games might include hide-and-seek or bowling with LED lights.
· Backyard Camping: Set up a tent, make smores, look for shooting stars, and tell stories under the moonlight.
· Giant Lawn Games: Look for yard-sized games like Jenga or Chess.
· Build a Shishkaball Game: What is Shishkaball – it’s a mix of skee-ball and ring toss and is a fun life-sized version of the game KerPlunk.
o How to build a Shishkaball Game
§ Create the Frame: Use wire fencing to form a cylindrical cage.
§ Build the Base & Lid: Cut plywood rings to secure the top and bottom.
§ Insert Stakes: Thread bamboo stakes through the cylinder at odd angles.
§ Drop plastic balls into the top of the cylinder.
· Clay Pot Smoker: Here is an easy and inexpensive way to smoke your summer favorites. You will need:
o Large clay pot (12-16 inches in diameter)
o Clay pot saucer (or a smaller pot to act as a lid)
o Electric hot plate (at least 1,000 watts)
o Circular cooking grate (fits inside the pot)
o Metal pan (for wood chips)
o Bricks or patio blocks (to elevate the hot plate)
o Oven thermometer (to monitor temperature)
o Handle (for the lid)
o Drill and masonry bit (to create a hole for the hot plate cord)
Steps to Build:
o Prepare the pot: Drill a hole in the bottom of the clay pot for the hot plate’s electrical cord.
o Set up the base: Place bricks inside the pot to elevate the hot plate for better airflow.
o Install the hot plate: Position the hot plate inside the pot, ensuring the cord passes through the drilled hole.
o Add wood chips: Place a metal pan filled with wood chips on top of the hot plate.
o Insert the cooking grate: Place the grate inside the pot, ensuring it sits securely.
o Create the lid: Attach a handle to the clay pot saucer or smaller pot to use as a lid.
o Start smoking: Turn on the hot plate, monitor the temperature.
There you have it—some unique and fun backyard ideas to make the most of your summer! If you’re like me, the season flies by way too fast, so soak up the sun and create unforgettable moments while you can. These ideas are sure to bring joy—and who knows, you might even boost your home’s value along the way!
Sandi Downing Real Estate/Keller Williams Greater Omaha
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