The Running Commode: E2 - Do Water Features Add to Home Value?

Introduction

In this episode of our series "The Running Commode" we discuss water features for your home, based on insights shared by Mark Raymond from TMI Properties, Erik Hodge of HHI Home Inspections, and guest Kurt Pieper of Verdant Landscape Consultants.

Adding water to your yard is not just about looks. It changes how you feel when you step outside. Many people focus on kitchens or bathrooms when they want to improve their homes. However, a great outdoor space can offer a massive return on your investment. In this post, we look at how water features improve your life and your property value.

The Power of Water Features in Your Yard

Most homeowners think about fire pits or outdoor kitchens first. They treat water as an afterthought. Experts suggest you should think about water first. No matter your budget, try to put about 20% of your outdoor budget toward a water feature.

Water provides a better return than almost any other outdoor project. For the right buyer, a water feature can even offer a return of over 100%. This means it pays for itself when you sell your home.

Why We Love Water

Humans have a natural connection to water. It is in our genes. We are hardwired to look for it because water means life. This is why people want houses on a lake or a cabin by a river.

Being near moving water creates negative ions. These ions are good for your mental and physical health. They help soothe your mind and reduce stress. It is a natural way to feel better while sitting in your own backyard.

Water Features for Every Space

You do not need a huge mansion to enjoy the sound of a waterfall. There is a water option for every type of home. Even if you live in an apartment, you can bring water into your life.

• Patio Bowls: These can be as small as 12 inches. They fit perfectly on a small table or balcony.

• Fountains: These usually need about a 4x4 area. They work well in small yards.

• Pondless Waterfalls: These give you the sound of a stream without a deep pool of water.

• Ecosystem Ponds: These are full systems with fish and plants that look like nature.

  
  

Safety and Maintenance

Many people worry that a pond will be too much work. They also worry about safety for children or pets. Modern systems make these concerns easy to handle.

Is it Safe?

If you are worried about deep water, you can go pondless. A pondless feature has moving water that disappears into a bed of gravel. There is no standing water for anyone to fall into.

In some towns, very deep ponds are treated like swimming pools. You might need a fence around the yard. However, in areas with many natural lakes, people are used to being around water. It is all about watching your space and choosing the right design for your family.

Is it Hard to Clean?

Modern ecosystem ponds are very low maintenance. They are designed to work like a river in nature. These systems use beneficial bacteria to keep the water clean.

Task	Time Needed	Frequency
Checking the Skimmer	5 minutes	Once a week
Adding Bacteria	1 minute	Once a week
Cleaning Leaves	15 minutes	During Autumn

You do not need harsh chemicals or complex tools. The water stays clear because it is always moving. This movement mimics a natural stream, which keeps algae from growing.

Making the Most of Your Outdoor Space

When you design your yard, you can mix different elements. You do not have to choose between fire and water. Many people install a fire pit right next to a waterfall. This creates a perfect spot for relaxing at night.

The biggest mistake people make is waiting too long to start. They spend all their money on grass and stones. By the time they think about water, the budget is gone. If you plan for water at the start, you can build a yard that feels like a sanctuary.

Conclusion

A water feature is a gift to yourself. It makes your home a place where you can truly relax. It improves your health by calming your mind. At the same time, it makes your house stand out if you ever decide to sell.

If you are thinking about improving your yard, do not wait. Whether it is a small bowl for your balcony or a large waterfall for your garden, water will change your home for the better. Most people who get a water feature have only one regret. They wish they had built it bigger. Start planning your water feature today to see the difference it makes in your daily life.