Improving your home’s outdoor spaces will also improve your overall home’s value, but which backyard projects are really worth it? Among the myriad ideas for upgrading your outdoor living space, some certainly stand out as clear ways to boost your home’s value.
Whether you want to sell your home or add equity while enjoying the benefits of DIY projects, here are some of the best backyard projects to consider:
The boundaries between indoor and outdoor space continue to shift, and more homeowners are wishing to spend time in their backyard. The best way to meet this demand is to have a dedicated outdoor kitchen and outdoor dining area.
For a simple DIY outdoor kitchen, set up a prep table next to your grill. Once you add some outdoor seating and a table to gather around, you can enjoy hosting backyard parties or quiet household meals. Not only will you reap the benefits of your hard work, you’ll also add huge value to your home.
If your backyard doesn’t already have a path or walkway, consider installing one for added functionality and a value boost. From sand to gravel to beautiful flagstone, there are many options for building a perfect garden path to match your outdoor space.
For a true DIY approach, try making your own concrete stepping stones. Mixing concrete and using a bucket lid or tray as a mold, you can make all the materials you need for a path and save money on your project.
A fire pit is one of the most timeless and popular features to add to your outdoor space. What better way to spend cool summer evenings than with a cheerful, cozy fire? If you have a backyard patio, consider incorporating a fire pit into your existing design.
Either consult the plethora of DIY fire pit building guides available online, or opt for a portable fire pit for maximum flexibility. Add some comfortable patio chairs or lawn furniture and increase your outdoor fun and home value at the same time.
Some other backyard ideas include upgrading your outdoor lighting, building a garden shed, or simply sprucing up your landscaping. Whichever way you choose to enhance your outdoor space, starting with these ideas is sure to pay off.
Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!
With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley.
David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.
We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.
If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.
-TheHickoxTeam
Every Home Begins with 'H"
Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Meet David
"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."
-Evelyn Forston
I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.
I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.
As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.
Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, watching the Braves and SEC football, working out, spending time with family and my sweet fiancé, Evelyn.
Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.
Call me at 912-596-4261
Meet Evelyn
Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾
I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.
I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.
Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.
I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.
I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox and my two pups, Cupcake and Aubs. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.
Call me at 205-901-6756
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