Replacing Rotten Deck Stairs with Custom Features to Boost Value for John G

When I stepped in, I knew the solution needed to not only complete the work but also enhance the property’s appeal, especially with a home inspection looming as part of the sale process. Here’s what we did:

• Staircase Replacement: I replaced the old, rotting staircase with a standard deck staircase that met local building codes. The new stairs were secured to a properly sized footing at the bottom, ensuring both safety and durability. This would prevent any issues during the inspection that could give buyers leverage in negotiations.
• Boulder Step: Instead of replacing the unsafe wooden step outside the sliding glass door with another wooden solution, I proposed using large boulders set securely in a gravel base. This provided a solid, natural step without the need for complex concrete work, keeping the project simple while still addressing the uneven surface.
• Deck Completion: I finished the decking and added railings to ensure the safety and functionality of the upper deck, preparing it for both buyers and inspectors.
• Custom Sliding Door for Storage: To upgrade the under-deck storage, I suggested replacing the tarp with a custom sliding door featuring a stained-glass window. This solution not only secured the space but also added a unique visual element that made the property stand out to potential buyers.
• Planting the Cliff Face and Boulder Step: To soften the stark appearance of the bare cliff face next to the staircase, I created pocket gardens by bolting wire frames with geotextile to the cliff, adding hidden irrigation, and planting low-maintenance greenery. I also planted around the boulder step, bringing more greenery to the otherwise barren area, creating a more welcoming and visually appealing space.