Are you trying to figure out ways to increase the value of your home without spending a fortune? You might be thinking of a few coats of paint, updating your light and plumbing fixtures, or possibly remodeling a room or two.
Have you thought about updating your home landscaping instead? The truth is, your yard is the first thing that people see when they pass your home or pull into your driveway. When it is well-kept and full of beautiful flowers, people automatically assume the best about your home.
We’re going to take a quick look at landscaping as an investment. Keep reading for more information!
Landscaping Signals
Whether you have a green thumb or pay a professional to keep your yard looking beautiful, potential buyers will notice that you put effort into this part of your home.
Because of this, they will automatically assume that the rest of your home is just as well-kept and maintained. A well-maintained home means less potential for problems further down the road and buyers typically see this as an attractive quality.
Save on Energy
If you are lucky enough to live in an area that allows for trees to grow big, tall, and healthy, take advantage of it! Homes that have shade from nearby trees consume less energy because their AC doesn’t have to work as hard.
Mature trees that offer shade are often a draw to any home buyer looking for long-term savings. Even if you are choosing to stay in your home, you can see a return on investment over time with your energy savings.
Attract Buyers
When you are ready to sell your home, it can be difficult to attract interested buyers when the lawn looks dreary. By having a few colorful flowers, some well-trimmed plants, and maybe even a fountain, you will quickly attract the eye of anyone who passes.
To really give your home that wow-factor, learn more about granite fountains and how they can really boost the curb appeal of your yard!
Getting Bang for Your Buck
When you are considering your home landscaping, you don’t have to go absolutely wild with plants. In fact, it’s better if you don’t.
Like the inside of your house, your lawn should be organized, themed, and put together. You will spend far more money purchasing random items than you will if you take some time to plan your landscaping.
Draw out a plan yourself or consult with a professional. Once you develop a vision, stick to it so you don’t end up over budget.
The most important factor is for your lawn to look manicured. This means keeping the grass trimmed and the edges looking clean and sharp. Aside from these two points, take the time to weed your flower beds.
Even with few plants, the above tip won’t necessarily cost a lot of money. Taking the time and effort to maintain your lawn will help your home appear to be in the tip-top condition and minimize the amount of work your landscaper must do.
What Buyers Look For
Aside from a manicured lawn, what else do buyers notice when they are driving past dozens of ‘for sale’ homes? The answer will vary with each person, but there are a few different lines of thought.
Many people take note of the types of plants, their size, and their maturity. Others might see a costly pain in the rear and not want to deal with it. This is one of those issues that comes down to the fact you can’t please everyone.
Taking a look at the bigger picture, an interested buyer may want to know what the wildfire hazard is or if there are hurricane precautions in place. Depending on your home’s location, having functional yet attractive safety measures in place can add thousands in value.
Consider a Landscaping Inspection
To ensure you get the most out of your yard’s design, it might be prudent to invest in a landscaping inspection. Allowing a professional (who isn’t trying to sell you anything) to inspect your landscaping can tell you what you should invest in first.
This inspection might show you that you should consider a new sprinkler system before starting a new project, that a retaining wall is damaged, or that the mature tree in your backyard is at risk of blowing over.
These inspections will give you a great starting point on where to invest and if you should consider hiring a professional or opt to do it yourself. At the time of inspection, you may also choose to have the soil tested to see which types of plants will best grow.
Should you choose to do nothing with the information, you can at least present it when in negotiations with a potential buyer. A recent inspection might give them a bit of insight as to what they can expect or make them realize what a wonderful deal they are getting on your house!
Home Landscaping: Definitely an Investment!
Just like remodeling a room, painting a wall, or placing furniture, home landscaping is an important upgrade for any home. Unlike the other upgrades, though, landscaping requires ongoing work and maintenance.
Whether you choose to hire a neighborhood kid, a professional, or decide to take on the project yourself, you will find beauty in your manicured lawn.
Even if you don’t plan to sell your home, you are sure to enjoy fruits and vegetables from your garden or smelling wonderful aromas from your flowers. Whichever way you choose to look at it, landscaping can definitely be seen as an investment!
If you’d like more tips on getting your home ready to sell, take a minute to read our guide about preparing for an open house!