Though the real estate market is booming and home prices are already at record highs, it can’t hurt to maximize the value of your property, particularly if you’re considering listing it for sale. One way to add value to your home is by investing in a well-chosen landscaping project. Choose an update that will impress potential buyers and entice them to pay a bit more to close the deal.
“When it comes to getting the best price for your home, the power of landscaping to increase your home’s value can’t be overlooked,” says Beatrice de Jong, broker and consumer trends expert for Opendoor. “First impressions are everything, and curb appeal is what potential buyers notice first…It will signal to buyers that they can expect the same from the interior and bones of the house.”
Additionally, data repeatedly shows that curb appeal, in the form of attractive landscaping, goes a long way. Sellers can gain anywhere from 5% to 12% more value to their home (depending on where the property is located) with a well-maintained landscape, adds de Jong. Here are 10 landscaping projects that industry experts say are worth the investment to boost your home’s value.
1. Plant trees.
One word: trees. Planting trees is the one landscaping project nearly every expert recommends for increasing a home’s value.
“Trees can add up to $9,000 to your home’s value, but you should grow them a distance from the septic system, driveways, and the house itself to prevent any potential interferences,” suggests Bryan McKenzie, co-founder of Bumper Crop Times. “Otherwise, the value of your home can be decreased as buyers may anticipate costly issues.”Tree placement is key because of potential root damage to the home’s foundation, falling branches, or other issues. Wisely placed trees, however, have consistently proven to be a smart investment, says Dan Beaulieu, real estate agent, contractor, and founder of Burlington House Buyers.
“Almost everything you purchase depreciates. The exception is trees,” explains Beaulieu. “Trees that are mature add to the value of a home. The sheer presence of big trees increases property prices in an area by 4% to 20%.”
2. Spruce up the front walkway.
Your walkway is part of a potential buyer’s first impression. So, spend some time making your walkway and entrance look picture-perfect. “If the walkway is well-decorated, it instantly creates a good ambiance for the house,” says Dawn Templeton, owner and real estate broker with Idaho-based Templeton Real Estate Group. “Plant flowers by the two sides of the walkway, and keep the walkways illuminated properly. It will create a dramatic beauty.” Stylish planters (try this Better Homes & Gardens Laurie White Resin Planter, $28, Walmart) elevate the look of inexpensive flowering annuals.
3. Invest in a well-maintained lawn.
Another major element of curb appeal you should never underestimate is the power of a well-cared-for-lawn or front yard. A well-maintained front yard has a huge impact on the overall desirability of your home.
“My general rule for landscaping is that the home should look at least as nice as the neighboring homes,” says de Jong. “At the very least, home sellers should have the lawn mowed, trees pruned, weeds pulled, and garden spruced up with some colorful seasonal flowersbecause curb appeal is essential to selling a home.”An unmaintained lawn, on the other hand, is not only a curb appeal deterrent; it also sends a red flag to potential buyers that the home wasn’t taken care of, de Jong adds.
The good news when it comes to lawn maintenance? It’s not a budget killer, says Dino DiNenna, a real estate broker and owner of South Carolina-based Hilton Head Realty. “Lawn maintenance is quick, relatively inexpensive, and returns most of your investment. A well-kept expanse of grass pleases buyers,” explains DiNenna. “A lawn is also a place of relaxation for the adults and a playground for the children.”
The National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Landscape Professionals estimate that applying mulch annually, mowing about 2,800 square feet of lawn, pruning shrubs, and planting about 60 annuals or perennials costs about $3,000—but has a 100% return on investment.
“Neglecting your lawn is like leaving money on the table. I and my team always suggest to our clients who want tips on landscaping for the sake of increasing their home value, basic yard care service is the top curb appeal project to tackle before selling.
