It may be a cliche but when it comes to real estate, first impressions really count. Yes, some buyers need days or weeks to think if they truly want a property, but there are many who fall in love with a home the moment they park in the driveway.
If curb appeal is important in real estate, then is landscaping a good investment?
To answer that question: yes, landscaping adds value to a house. A positive first impression, which includes a beautifully landscaped garden, can be enough to get a potential homebuyer excited enough to make a serious offer. That said, it swings both ways. A neglected lawn or a dishevelled front yard can lead potential buyers to believe the property is in disarray and disrepair.
How Much Does a Garden Add to the Value of a House?
Are you wondering – does a garden increase property value? Let the numbers speak for themselves.
According to the experts interviewed by Domain.com.au, good landscaping can increase a home’s value by at least 15 to 20 per cent. Sometimes, it can even increase by 25 per cent. That’s because many homebuyers purchase a property because of its garden. Today, more and more people like relaxing outside and basking in the sunshine. There is more emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, which means gardens offer tremendous value to homes.
How Much Value Does a Finished Backyard Add?
Of course, it’s not just about your home’s garden. A beautiful backyard will also give a significant boost to your home’s ‘wow’ factor. According to a survey, the average patio that costs $3,269 to build and install can add $3,563 value to your property. That’s an ROI of 9% — not too shabby!
Of course, that ROI can increase as you also add more features to your backyard. It’s important for outdoor spaces to be functional, so you can add in-built seating and outdoor kitchens to further increase your home’s value. If you need more help, we’ve got an article on how to do landscaping in a tiny backyard.
Speaking of landscaping ideas to add value to your house, we have an entire section dedicated to design tips and inspiration!
Landscaping Tips to Increase Home Value
Now that we’ve established that landscaping adds value to a house, here are some ways to boost the curb appeal of your property.
1. Define lawn edges
Mow and edge your lawn regularly. This will help it look tamed and restrained, which gives off the appearance that it’s low maintenance — a popular selling point. You can either call in a professional or do it yourself. It can be as easy as using a sharp spade to neatly separate your lawn from a garden bed, fence or pathway.
2. Add lots of lush greenery
Trees, shrubs and garden beds all do their part in boosting the beauty of your garden. Ask your local garden centre for recommendations on plants that increase property value.
4. Keep your yard well lit
Upgrading your outdoor lighting will enhance safety and security as well as increase your property’s value. Choose fixtures that complement your house and offer effective illumination to key areas such as the garage, the porch and the garden. You can also install landscape lighting to add drama and draw attention to your flowering plants.
5. Add colours and form
Add vibrant planters to entranceways featuring clipped, ornamental shrubs and fill other parts in your garden with bright flowering perennials or annuals. This will give your front yard an immediate lift.
6. Lay a new lawn
Want to make your home stand out from the rest? Install a lush and new lawn. Kikuyu grass is a cost-effective option while premium Buffalo grass will look luscious all year round no matter the weather.
Hire a Professional Landscaper to Increase Your Home’s Value
Any home improvements boost the value of your property, including a beautifully landscaped garden. First impressions last and if you’re planning to sell your home in the future, a picturesque outdoor space can make your property stand out and get you the best offer.
Don’t want to go the DIY landscaping route? Enlist the help of the professionals at Green Oasis Landscaping. We are a family business that brings out the best of every property. Our range of landscaping services includes decking, paving, setting up garden beds, installing outdoor lighting and many others.
Let us transform your outdoor space into a green oasis. Contact us today.