When Michael and Sarah decided to list their Carrollwood home in early spring, they expected a competitive market—but not the kind of immediate interest they received.
“We had three strong offers within 48 hours,” said Sarah. “And two of them mentioned the backyard lighting in their notes.”
While curb appeal has always played a role in real estate, today’s buyers—especially in the Tampa Bay area—are looking for homes that feel inviting, functional, and ready for modern living. And according to their listing agent, it wasn’t just the layout or the location that stood out.
“It was the way the house looked at night,” said their Realtor, Amanda R., who specializes in homes in the Carrollwood area. “Between the path lights, the pool uplights, and the soft glow from the back patio, it showed like a luxury listing.”
That lighting design was done by Hive six months before the home hit the market—and it became one of the biggest selling points in the process.
A Look at the Outdoor Lighting System
Michael and Sarah’s lighting goals were simple: make the home feel safer, more welcoming, and better suited for entertaining. Here’s what Hive installed:
Front Path and Entryway Lighting
- Low-voltage LED path lights from driveway to front door
- Accent lighting on palm trees and front porch columns
Backyard and Pool Area
- Directional uplighting on the pool cage and surrounding landscaping
- Wall wash lighting on the rear of the house
- Deck step lights for evening safety and ambiance
Control System
- Lutron Caséta integration with sunset schedules and app control
- Scenes for “Evening,” “Entertain,” and “Security” modes
The system not only transformed the nighttime look of the property—it also aligned with smart home expectations among today’s buyers.
Why Lighting Makes a Difference in Tampa Real Estate
In neighborhoods like Carrollwood, where many homes are built on spacious lots with lush landscaping, outdoor lighting does more than improve aesthetics. It plays a measurable role in:
- Increasing Perceived Value
- Professionally installed lighting adds depth and sophistication
- Buyers associate quality lighting with higher-end builds
- Enhancing Security and Comfort
- A well-lit exterior helps buyers feel safer from the moment they arrive
- Front yard and backyard lighting suggest thoughtful upkeep and planning
- Boosting Curb Appeal During Twilight Showings
- Evening showings are common in Florida, especially in spring and summer
- Homes with layered lighting show better in photos and in person
- Supporting Staging and Listing Photos
- Outdoor lighting adds definition to twilight photos for online listings
- High-quality images drive more interest on Zillow, Redfin, and MLS
“People aren’t just buying square footage anymore,” said Amanda. “They’re buying a lifestyle—and homes that feel elevated, even at night, always stand out.”
Before and After: The Visual Difference
Before their Hive lighting install, Michael and Sarah’s backyard faded into darkness by 7:30pm. The only light came from a single overhead fixture on the patio.
After the install:
- Pathways were lit, making the backyard safer for guests and kids
- Palm trees and hedges popped with soft uplight
- The pool area took on a resort-like feel
The total install took just three days—and the impact was immediate.
What Buyers Noticed Most
When Hive followed up post-sale, the buyers confirmed what the sellers and Realtor suspected.
“We loved how the house looked at night,” said the new homeowner. “It just felt finished. Like someone had already taken care of the hard stuff.”
The app control and smart features were a bonus—but the visual effect sealed the deal.
Hive Outdoor Lighting Services: Built for Tampa Homes
Hive has designed and installed landscape and architectural lighting across the Tampa Bay area, including:
- Carrollwood
- Davis Islands
- Westchase
- Hyde Park
- Odessa
- Wesley Chapel
Our outdoor lighting services include:
- Path and landscape lighting
- Deck, step, and pool area lighting
- Accent and uplighting for architectural features
- Motion-activated or scheduled lighting scenes
- Integration with smart home platforms
Whether you’re preparing to sell or just want to enjoy your home more after sunset, professional lighting is one of the fastest ways to improve both style and safety.
FAQs
Q1: How much does outdoor lighting cost in Tampa?
A: Most Hive lighting projects range from $2,500 to $12,000 depending on scope, fixtures, and control system integration.
Q2: Do outdoor lighting systems require permits?
A: Low-voltage systems usually do not require a permit, but Hive ensures full code compliance in every install.
Q3: Can lighting increase my home’s resale value?
A: Yes. It can improve perceived value, curb appeal, and listing performance—especially with professional photos.
Q4: How long does installation take?
A: Most projects are completed in 1–3 days. Larger or multi-zone projects may take longer depending on terrain and wiring needs.
Q5: Can the system be automated or controlled by phone?
A: Yes. We integrate lighting with systems like Lutron Caséta, Control4, or Savant—giving you full control via app or voice.
Book a Lighting Consultation with Hive
If you’re considering listing your home—or just want it to look and feel better after dark—outdoor lighting is a smart investment.
Hive offers:
- Free site walk-throughs and lighting assessments
- Custom design tailored to your home’s layout
- Full install and integration with your existing smart systems
