06/05/2026
Most people pick a lot based on price or location.
But they forget one of the biggest factors that’ll impact their day-to-day quality of life: sun orientation.
In Texas, a west-facing backyard in the summer is basically an outdoor oven. We’re talking 100+ degrees—every single day.
Unless you’ve got serious shade from trees or a structure, it’s almost unbearable to be outside. Your backyard might look great in photos, but good luck using it between May and September.
I always recommend picking a north or south-facing lot. That way, your backyard gets natural shade during the hottest part of the day.
Even if you end up with a west-facing front door, that can still work—as long as your backyard isn’t catching the full brunt of that afternoon sun.
The goal is simple: you want your back patio to be usable, not just decorative.
👉 Thinking about buying or building? Don’t overlook the sun. It matters more than you think.
Chris Oliver | TX 0562685