Top Landscaping Projects That Increase Home Value

Simple outdoor projects can significantly increase your home value, especially if you plan to sell it. Visitors will notice the front lawn leading to the door before checking the backyard or interior makeup. While you may consider the outdoor space a separate section of your home, improving it can significantly influence buyer’s perceptions of your home.

However, not all outdoor renovations will deliver the desired results. What you see as an upgrade can negatively affect property resale value. Here are some top outdoor projects likely to increase your home value.

How Does Landscaping Increase Home Price?

Landscaping refers to any project that increases the visual value of outdoor space. The activities can be divided into biological elements (softscaping) and non-living aspects (hardscaping). Like interior renovations, these activities often aim to expand outdoor living space, enhance visual appeal, or reduce overall maintenance costs. That means any project you invest in revolves around these three goals, whether premium or budget-friendly.

According to research, a well-maintained landscape can increase the property’s value by 5.5% to 12.7%. These figures may seem overall, considering the thousands of dollars that go into improving the interior space. However, they translate to a higher price than homes with low-maintained or no landscape. While most homeowners invest in landscaping only for visual goals, it is also recommended to consider ideas that guarantee monetary gains.

Landscaping Projects That Improve a Property’s Value

In today’s competitive real estate market, not all improvements can increase a home’s price. Some people value simple upgrades that provide more exterior seating and relaxation areas, while others are more inclined to use aesthetic elements. Whether you are into softscaping or hardscaping, here are top renovations that are more likely to increase home value.

Planting Mature Trees

Trees form a crucial part of any property as they offer natural outdoor shades. However, most buyers value an elaborate design with mature trees planted in the right spots. Studies show that buyers are likely to spend more on a home with larger trees than one without. That is because mature trees improve air quality and reduce water runoff, besides making the house look nice.

The perceived price increase depends on the type of trees you plant and where you plant them. For instance, planting large trees in a prominent front yard will likely fetch the highest price. On the other hand, planting trees that provide shade or privacy screens on the back patios can command a higher price tag. When selecting trees, starting with native species that require fewer maintenance resources is recommended. Some premium choices include white firs and sugar maples.

Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping uses drought-friendly features that require little to no irrigation to nourish. It might be among the most expensive projects to indulge in. However, it has recently experienced a significant increase in demand. This is due to more people looking for natural solutions to the current climate changes. For instance, a typical project can cost as high as $20 per square foot. However, when done correctly, it can increase a home’s value by 15%.

Some water-wise xeriscaping ideas include planting low-water plants and investing more in hardscaping using stones and pavers to reduce lawn water requirements. Installing an automated irrigation system also ensures water is used where necessary. Working with an experienced landscaping team is essential for investing in the right xeriscaping projects that add value while reducing water reliance. That is true whether you want landscape construction in Port Dover or any other region.

Building Decks and Patios

Outdoor seating spaces are becoming popular sections for relaxation and entertainment. A well-built patio or deck can provide a seamless intersection between interior and exterior areas besides extending your home. This can yield a return on investment of about 80% for wood decks or 59% for composite decks.

When building exterior living spaces, focus on elements that increase livability and functionality. You should invest in comfortable outdoor furniture, kitchens, and fireplaces. These features will make the outdoor space more valuable and attractive. When finished with trending colors and outdoor lighting, beautiful patios and decks will make your home more appealing to buyers, commanding a higher price tag.

Installing Sprinkler Systems and Water Features

Homeseekers want healthy and beautiful lawns without worrying about maintenance costs. Setting up sprinkler systems allows for a uniform water supply across the lawn all the time, reducing the need for hand watering. A well-functioning watering system also shows how much you have invested in maintaining your home. This significantly influences its return on investment, mainly among eco-conscious homebuyers.

Water features enhance the beauty of your home and attract more buyers. Ponds and fountains, for instance, create a calming environment for you and your visitors. However, always consider where you add them, as they can become a security concern for your family. Installing accent lighting around the water feature can increase its visual appeal while ensuring family safety.

Creating Decorative Front Entrances and Walkways

A beautiful front entrance creates a positive mood for the home. The first step to attracting premium buyers is adding a new coat of paint or stain to exterior walls. From there, you can add more greenery and colorful flowers around the front door to enhance visual appeal. Consider using evergreen shrubs and seasonal flowers with minimum maintenance costs.

Walkways and paths also play a significant role in creating an appealing landscape. Well-maintained and defined walkways allow visitors to explore different yard sections, influencing their buying decisions. When constructing walkways and paths, always choose materials that match your home’s style and nearby features. Flagstone pavers and gravel are the most common options with the highest cost recovery.

Endnote

Enhancing your property’s exterior sections can positively impact its market price and visual appeal. Simple projects like planting mature trees and building decks can make your home more attractive. Using drought-friendly features also makes your home sustainable, attracting high-budget and environmentally conscious buyers. However, like any other upgrade, investing in projects that appeal to most buyers is recommended to avoid over-personalizing your home. Staying ahead of the trending ideas is also essential to fit the ever-changing housing market.