How Sheds, Barns, and Backyard Buildings Can Boost Your Property’s Market Value

If you own a home in West Virginia, especially in areas like Elkins or Buckhannon, you're probably always looking for smart, lasting ways to improve your property. One of the best-kept secrets in real estate? Storage buildings—and not just for storage.

From sheds and barns to fully finished cabins and custom backyard units, adding a structure to your property can do more than organize your lawn tools. It can boost your home’s market value, create new functional space, and even offer income potential.

Value Where It Matters Most

Today’s buyers don’t just want a house—they want functionality, flexibility, and foresight. An outdoor building tells a story: one of a homeowner who values purpose, order, and long-term utility. Whether it’s a storage shed, workshop, garden barn, or finished retreat, these structures speak volumes without saying a word.

In fact, multiple real estate professionals agree—properties with clean, well-maintained outbuildings not only photograph better and draw more online views, but they also sell faster and closer to asking price. Why? Because they check boxes that buyers didn’t even realize they had.

More usable space = more perceived value

Finished structures = greater appraisal value

Aesthetic, well-built buildings = stronger curb appeal

In regions like Elkins and Buckhannon WV, where spacious lots and outdoor lifestyles are part of the local culture, these buildings aren’t just additions—they’re assets. A backyard office, garden studio, or mini-barn adds versatility, convenience, and charm. And for growing families, remote workers, or hobbyists, they often represent freedom and breathing room.

But this is just the beginning. As housing costs rise and zoning laws evolve, these “bonus buildings” are transforming from optional upgrades into strategic investments—especially when they're designed with the future in mind.

Which brings us to one of the fastest-growing trends in real estate:

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

The Rise of ADUs: Affordable Real Estate’s Next Chapter

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are rewriting the playbook for residential real estate—and they’re doing it from the backyard.

Also known as tiny homes, in-law suites, guest cabins, or backyard apartments, ADUs are standalone structures that exist on the same property as a primary residence. But don’t let the word “accessory” fool you. These buildings are fully functional, often complete with electricity, plumbing, heating, kitchens, and bathrooms. And they’re quickly becoming one of the smartest ways to increase your property’s value, flexibility, and earning potential.

Why ADUs Are Taking Off Nationwide

ADUs are booming in popularity, and the reasons go far beyond trendiness:

The Housing Affordability Crisis

With home prices and interest rates climbing, many families are being priced out of traditional homes. ADUs offer an alternative—more affordable, quicker to build, and without the need to purchase new land.

Multigenerational Living

More families are choosing to live together under one "roof"—but not always in the same structure. An ADU can house aging parents, adult children, or long-term guests while still preserving privacy and independence for everyone.

Remote Work & Creative Spaces

From backyard offices to art studios and therapy rooms, ADUs are helping professionals carve out productive, distraction-free spaces just steps from home.

Short-Term & Long-Term Rental Income

Perhaps the biggest motivator for many homeowners: income. A well-built ADU can be rented out as an Airbnb, guest cabin, or long-term rental. In some markets, the income generated from an ADU can offset your mortgage—or even turn your property into a profit center.

Zoning Changes & Legalization Trends

Across the U.S., states and municipalities are relaxing zoning rules to allow more ADUs on residential lots. West Virginia is no exception, and forward-thinking property owners are taking advantage before the market becomes saturated.

Backyard Potential Meets Real-World Opportunity

If you’ve got the land, you’ve got options. A simple backyard space—unused, overlooked, or just housing your lawnmower—could become the foundation for something transformational. Imagine turning that open space into:

A cozy rental cabin with steady monthly income

A private guest suite that keeps family close but comfortable

A retreat for remote work or creative pursuits

A transitional living space for teens, college grads, or elderly parents

At Mountain State Structures, we’re seeing a sharp uptick in demand for buildings specifically tailored to these use cases. Our customers aren’t just looking for sheds—they’re looking for structures with purpose.

And we deliver.

From fully finished cabins to custom shell units ready for interior finishing, our buildings are built to code, built to last, and built with vision. Unlike mass-produced sheds, our structures are crafted with the West Virginia climate in mind, using high-quality materials that stand the test of time. Whether you're planning to install HVAC, run plumbing, or simply create a livable shell for later customization, we’ll help guide the process.

This isn’t about following a trend—it’s about investing in your property’s future, meeting the moment, and preparing for what’s next.

Financial and Functional Benefits

Adding a shed, barn, or ADU isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating a smarter, more valuable property. These structures serve as

multifunctional assets that work for you every day and grow in value over time.

💰 Return on Investment (ROI) You Can See and Feel

Unlike some home upgrades that are purely cosmetic, outbuildings and ADUs generate real-world returns. ADU's add 25%-35% to a homes value. According to real estate data, homes with additional structures often appraise higher—and attract more buyers—because they offer built-in solutions for modern living. In many cases, a finished backyard structure can add thousands to your property’s value and shorten time on the market when it’s time to sell.

And if you're building with rental income in mind, your structure could begin paying for itself in months—not years.

🔄 Versatility = Long-Term Value

A backyard building can change as your life changes. What starts as a simple home office today can become a guest suite, hobby studio, or rental space down the road. Need a spot for your teen to grow into? A place for visiting family during the holidays? A quiet retreat from a noisy house? The beauty of a well-built structure is that it adapts with you.

That’s what makes them so valuable—they’re not tied to one function, they’re tied to your future.

🧰 Low Maintenance, High Utility

With quality construction, durable materials, and weather-resistant design, buildings from Mountain State Structures are made to last—and stay functional with minimal upkeep. Compared to costly home additions or renovations, these structures are faster to install, more affordable to maintain, and far less disruptive to your daily life.

🌱 Energy Efficiency & Modern Utility Options

Many of our customers are opting to insulate, wire, and plumb their buildings. Others install solar panels or use portable climate-control units. You’re not limited to four walls and a roof—you can outfit your structure with smart upgrades that make it as efficient and comfortable as any room inside your home.

Whether you’re investing for personal use or preparing for future income, these buildings offer a rare mix of

financial upside and daily convenience.

Take the First Step Toward More Value

Visit one of our locations today:

25 Country Club Road, Elkins, WV12 Lady Slipper Drive, Buckhannon, WV

Or start exploring online with our 3D Builder. You can design your dream structure, see it in real-time, and get a free estimate in minutes.

Looking for “sheds near me,” “Elkins WV buildings,” or “cabins in Buckhannon”? You’ll find us there—ready to help you build something that doesn’t just sit in your yard, but supports your property’s future value.

Let Mountain State Structures help you build smart, live better, and increase your home’s worth—one structure at a time.