Does landscaping increase home value?

Does landscaping increase home value?

Curb Appeal Matters

Picture this: you’ve just bought your dream home. It’s everything you ever wanted, except for one thing – the landscaping is less than stellar. Do you invest in sprucing up the yard, or is it just a waste of money? The answer is clear – landscaping can absolutely increase your home value. But don’t take our word for it – let’s explore the details.

It’s no secret that curb appeal matters when it comes to selling your home. It’s the first impression potential buyers will have, and a well-landscaped yard can make all the difference. In fact, a study by the National Association of Realtors found that 71% of homebuyers believe curb appeal is important in their decision to purchase a home. And when it comes to landscaping specifically, a study by HomeLight found that homes with upgraded outdoor spaces sold for 5.5% more than homes without.

What Elements of Landscaping Matter Most?

So, what elements of landscaping should you focus on to increase your home’s value? Here are a few key areas to consider:

  1. A Well-Manicured Lawn: A lush green lawn is a classic element of a well-landscaped yard. Take the time to fertilize, mow, and water your lawn regularly to keep it looking its best.
  2. Thoughtful Plantings: Adding trees, shrubs, and flowers can create a visually appealing landscape. However, it’s important to choose plants that are appropriate for your climate and that will thrive in your yard’s conditions. Consider consulting with a landscaping professional for guidance.
  3. Outdoor Entertaining Spaces: Patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens can be a major draw for potential buyers, especially in areas with warm climates. Make sure these spaces are well-maintained and functional to increase their value.

How Much Can Landscaping Increase Home Value?

While adding some basic landscaping elements can increase your home’s value, the extent to which it does so depends on several factors. According to a study by the University of Michigan, the return on investment for landscaping ranges from 100% to 1000%. However, this can vary depending on your region, your home’s current value, and the type of landscaping you choose to do.

For example, if you live in an area with a hot real estate market, adding some basic landscaping elements may be enough to increase your home’s value significantly. On the other hand, if you live in a more rural or remote area, investing heavily in landscaping may not yield as much of an increase in value.

When Should You Invest in Landscaping?

If you’re considering investing in landscaping to increase your home’s value, the best time to do so is before you put your home on the market. This way, you’ll have time to enjoy your upgraded yard before you sell, and potential buyers will see your home at its best. However, even if you’re not planning to sell for a while, improving your landscaping can still be a worthwhile investment in your home’s overall value and your own enjoyment of your outdoor space.

Choosing the Right Landscaping Professional

If you’re not a green-thumbed pro, it may be worth hiring a professional to help you with your landscaping projects. But how do you choose the right one? Here are a few key factors to consider:

  1. Experience: Look for a landscaping professional with experience working in your region and with the type of landscaping you’re looking to do.
  2. References: Ask for references from past clients to get an idea of the quality of their work and their level of professionalism.
  3. Cost: While cost shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, it’s important to get quotes from a few different professionals to ensure you’re getting a fair price.

In conclusion, investing in landscaping can absolutely increase your home’s value. By focusing on key elements like a well-manicured lawn, thoughtful plantings, and outdoor entertaining spaces, you can create a visually appealing outdoor space that will draw in potential buyers. And even if you’re not planning to sell your home anytime soon, landscaping can still be a worthwhile investment in your home’s overall value and your own enjoyment of your outdoor space.

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