Why you should spend more time enjoying your home’s outdoor space this summer

Whether it’s a gorgeous wrap-around porch, a small patio, an outdoor swing next to your front door, or a backyard with a firepit and a couple chairs – chances are you are not utilizing your outdoor space enough. There are many benefits to spending time outside – from improving your health to strengthening connections.

Improving your health

Being outside and around nature can actually improve your mental and physical health. According to Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, some of the benefits of spending time outside can include “improvements in sleep, blood pressure, cognitive function and physical activity, as well as reduced risks of chronic disease, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer,” as reported by The St. Louis American.

Interacting with neighbors and creating community

Your outdoor space doesn’t just have to be for solo relaxation or family barbeques – it can be a gateway to building stronger neighborhood ties. Hosting a casual get-together, inviting someone over for a morning coffee on the porch, or simply waving hello from your front steps encourages friendly interactions. These small moments add up and help to foster a true sense of community.

Creating lasting memories with loved ones

Some of the best summer moments don’t require a getaway – they can happen right at home. Think s’mores by the firepit, movie nights on the lawn, or catching fireflies with the kids. By turning your backyard into a hub for family and friends, you’re creating a space that promotes connection, laughter, and meaningful memories.

Your outdoor space isn’t just extra space to enjoy – it’s an important factor to your lifestyle, your health, and your home’s overall value. Whether it’s soaking up some sun with a good book, enjoying dinner outside, or chatting with a neighbor on your front porch, don’t underestimate the power of the great outdoors.

Ready to turn your dream outdoor space – whether it be a front porch, backyard, or patio – into a reality? Whether you're looking to refinance, renovate, or explore your home equity options, Ruoff Mortgage is here to help.

About Ruoff Mortgage

At Ruoff Mortgage, we understand that buying a home is one of life’s biggest moments – not just as a financial decision, but a personal one. For more than 41 years, we’ve proudly helped families turn their dreams into reality. From our roots in northeast Indiana to now serving homebuyers throughout the Midwest, our focus has stayed the same: delivering exceptional service rooted in care, speed, and community. With an average 15-day clear-to-close time, our team is here to make your journey to homeownership as smooth and stress-free as possible. When you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to walk with you, every step of the way.