Impressive Backyards: The New Must-Have

As homebuyers seek backyard sanctuaries, take a look at 10 featured California homes.

CALIFORNIA — Forget chef kitchens and open floor plans, 2023 home buyers are looking for backyards that provide a sanctuary for their families. That's according to Zillow, which analyzed home searches for trends.

The company found that backyards are now being mentioned 22 percent more often in home listings compared to the previous year, suggesting this will be one of the most sought-after spaces through 2023. In fact, Zillow put backyards at the top of its list of five home trends to watch this year.

Listing agents have taken notice. Backyards are now highlighted in one out of every five Zillow descriptions, with patios and pools also receiving attention.

“The rising popularity of outdoor features suggests the pandemic has changed the way we want to live for good, priming the backyard for a 2023 evolution,” said Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert. “When the pandemic forced all entertaining outdoors, homeowners reclaimed their backyards from the kids or the dogs. Now they’re rethinking how that space could serve as an extension of their home in new, creative ways.”

Other key phrases for backyards will be outdoor home gyms, natural pools, edible gardens, and outdoor rooms for dining, lounging and quiet reflection.

Patch editors selected 10 California homes to feature that have promising backyards.