I would like the property with small trees. They’ll grown beautifully before you know it. Add lighting near them too.... :)

Yes to planting trees that can grow quickly- they can be expensive and require a lot of water in order to survive, so make sure you talk to a local garden center that can give you good recommendations.

A quick fix that has worked for me- I screwed in a couple of 2x4’s into my deck corners then hung hanging ferns to block a few views and create a little privacy on my deck. It has worked so well! I don’t have to see my jerk neighbor when he’s on his deck. I can still hear him, but without the visual it’s so much better. I buy huge hanging basket ferns and just water them every day. I also installed rail planters with tall plants to make a little garden oasis.

Good luck and have fun planting!

"I would like to be able to sit outside with some seclusion and to have a sense of privacy."

The truth is, nobody cares what you are doing: The spotlight effect

The truth is, nobody cares what you are doing:

I think even if no one is actually spying, what matters is that feeling that they are and that you're exposed. I agree with the tree idea.

While you wait for them to grow (and remember: the best time to plant a tree was 7 years ago, the second best time is now) create some sort of garden bed with a tall trellis. It's very bare and that contributes to the feeling of being exposed. There is no where for the eye to rest between that window and your patio.

Can you make a diagram of the property?