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There is no doubt that ambiance sells homes. A majority of us are influenced in our purchase decision by how a home makes us feel. It is the appeal to our emotive senses that attracts us to a particular property or home.

Even when we are not in the market to buy or sell a home, we can still benefit from creating an environment that soothes the senses and calms the heart. One way to make a great first impression and warm the heart is with outdoor lighting.

Take a few minutes to consider the advantages of outdoor lighting. You may decide that it’s time to install new lighting or update an older system outside your home.

For the general purposes of this article, we will focus on lighting designed to enhance the presentation of the home and landscape. Exterior lighting of the home itself warrants a separate discussion at a later time.

Outdoor light contributes to the overall safety and security of the home and its surroundings. Landscape lighting usually operates on 12 volts of power, compare with 120 volts in a typical outlet. Solar-powered systems are an option in many locations.

Properly installed, the lights provide enough brightness to light paths, posts and other structures around the lawn and garden. Higher wattage spotlights and flood lights can accent a tree, structure or be used to provide security lighting.

Timers make it easy to control operating costs and assure that the lights are on during appropriate viewing hours. Motion detectors are usually installed with security lighting,= but can also be used to control a lighted pathway or entryway to the home.

Generally speaking, outdoor lighting is affordable and can be scaled or accessorized to fit almost any budget. Simple systems can be purchased from local home improvement stores and installed in a weekend. More elaborate systems can be designed and installed by landscaping processionals.

Most systems require very little maintenance — except for keeping the fixtures free of debris and leaves; and replacing burned-out bulbs. Some products may be warrantied up to 10 years, and brass, copper, or stainless steel fixtures can last indefinitely.

If you are looking to add value to your home, consider outdoor lighting.

For more information, to view stunning looks or to search for a professional, visit the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals website at www.aolponline.org.

Ann Hoke leads the award-winning residential real estate team at Ann Hoke & Associates Keller Williams. For more information or comments, contact her at 615-397-4024 or askann@annhoke.com.