Outdoor spaces take center stage when potential homebuyers tour your home this summer looking for places to enjoy the SoCal lifestyle. The backyard and patio should be given special attention when staging your home for sale.

Begin with the patio and power wash patio covers and all outdoor surfaces, cleaning away leaves, dust and spider webs. If you have a wood deck, make sure the stain or paint is fresh.

Wipe down the patio furniture and if the chair pads are looking a bit ratty, replace them. Don’t be afraid to go bold with colorful pillows and cushions.

Uncover the barbecue and spit polish the stainless or enameled surface.

Freshen up potted plants with summer blooms, and place a vase of fresh cut flowers from the garden on the table. A few colorful glasses, candles or a serving tray with fruit will add a festive touch.

Light up outside Try a string of outdoor lights, lanterns or ground lights to add a dramatic effect for evening showings.

Low-voltage landscape lighting can ramp up the ambience of your patio and work well in conjunction with sconces or string lights. Try a few low lights in bushes surrounding the patio or illuminating a pathway.

Take a good look at back and front yard landscape. All hedges should be evenly trimmed and the flowerbeds turned, weeded and new mulch applied. Pull out any plants fading in summer’s heat.

Fertilize and water the lawn to an enviable green – sure your water bill may show it next month but the effect on curb appeal will be well worth it.

If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, hire landscape help to tackle the yard work. Clean up clutter and put away old toys and garden tools.

Make a good entry Make your front door a stand out. Many homeowners don’t come in the front door, but prospective homebuyers do.

Fix cracked or peeling paint and check to see if the doorbell works. A few colorful potted plants will create a welcoming entranceway for buyers. Polish the front doorknob or handle and replace a dented or worn mailbox.

Make sure your home address numbers can be seen from the street to facilitate potential viewings. Front porch entry lights should be cleaned or replaced if the finish has tarnished.

Make your home sizzle this summer by staging inviting outdoor areas, then take time to relax and enjoy them before the sold sign goes up!

— Adriana Donofrio, Podley Properties, Glendora, 626-914-2904 adrianad@podley.com