Front Yard Upgrades: 25 Simple Landscaping Ideas That Add Value

A well-maintained front yard can increase your property’s worth by up to 20%, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects. With the housing market constantly fluctuating, investing in your home’s curb appeal is a smart move that can pay off big time. 

Here are 25 easy and quick front yard landscaping ideas that will not only enhance your home’s aesthetic but also its market value. 

1. Plant a Welcoming Tree

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Adding a healthy tree to your front yard can significantly boost your property’s value. Choose a species that thrives in your local climate and provides year-round interest. 

Remember to plant it at a safe distance from your home’s foundation, typically at least 20 feet away.

2. Create a Charming Pathway

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Install a beautiful walkway using pavers or natural stone to add visual appeal and create a welcoming entrance. Consider using materials that complement your home’s exterior for a cohesive look. 

3. Install Landscape Lighting

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Strategically placed outdoor lighting can enhance your home’s nighttime appeal and security. Solar-powered options are cost-effective and easy to install, illuminating your yard without increasing energy bills. 

4. Add a Pop of Color with Flowers

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Plant vibrant flowers in beds or containers near your entrance to instantly brighten your yard. Choose low-maintenance, native species for best results and long-lasting appeal. This simple addition can create a cheerful first impression and significantly boost curb appeal.

5. Maintain a Lush Lawn

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A well-manicured lawn is crucial for curb appeal and can offer a whopping 104% return on investment. Regular mowing, edging, and fertilizing can give your yard a polished look. 

Consider overseeding bare patches to ensure a uniform, healthy appearance.

6. Install a Decorative Mailbox

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Upgrade your standard mailbox to a more stylish option that complements your home’s architecture. This small change can make a big impact on your home’s overall appearance. 

7. Create Defined Borders

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Use edging materials like stones or bricks to create clean lines between your lawn and flower beds. Well-defined borders can make your landscaping appear more professional and increase your home’s perceived value.

8. Add a Water Feature

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A small fountain or birdbath can add a touch of tranquility to your front yard. The sound of trickling water creates a soothing atmosphere and attracts wildlife. Choose a water feature that complements your home’s style and is easy to maintain.

9. Incorporate Native Plants

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Choose plants native to your region for a low-maintenance, eco-friendly landscape. These plants are adapted to local conditions and require less water and care. Native plants can also support local wildlife, adding to the overall appeal of your property.

10. Install Window Boxes

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Charming window boxes filled with colorful flowers or greenery can add character to your home’s facade. They’re an easy way to bring life and color to plain exterior walls. Choose plants that complement your home’s color scheme for a cohesive look.

11. Create a Focal Point

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Add an eye-catching element like a sculpture, decorative bench, or unique plant specimen to draw attention. Ensure the chosen element complements your overall landscaping design.

12. Mulch Your Beds

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Apply a fresh layer of mulch to your garden beds to give a neat appearance. This not only looks tidy but also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Use a mulch color that complements your home’s exterior for a polished look.

13. Paint Your Front Door

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A freshly painted front door in a bold, welcoming color can dramatically improve your home’s curb appeal. It’s an affordable update that makes a big statement. 

14. Add Outdoor Seating

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Place a small bench or a pair of chairs near your entrance to create an inviting atmosphere. This suggests a welcoming, lived-in feel to potential buyers. Just make sure that the seating area is visible from the street to maximize curb appeal.

15. Install a Decorative Fence

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A low decorative fence can add charm and define your property lines. Choose a style that complements your home’s architecture for a cohesive look. Ensure the fence meets local regulations and doesn’t obstruct views of your beautifully landscaped yard.

16. Create Symmetry

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Flank your entrance with matching planters or light fixtures to create a sense of order and elegance. Symmetrical design elements can make your home appear more balanced and well-maintained. 

17. Add Architectural Details

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Install decorative shutters, window boxes, or a pergola to add architectural interest to your home’s exterior. These elements can significantly enhance your home’s character and perceived value. 

18. Incorporate Hardscaping

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Add a small patio or seating area using pavers or stones to create an additional outdoor living space. This can significantly increase your home’s value, as outdoor living areas are highly prized by potential buyers.

19. Use Decorative Rocks

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Incorporate decorative rocks or gravel in your landscaping design to add texture and interest. They require minimal maintenance and can help reduce water usage in your yard.

20. Create a Seasonal Display

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Set up a small area for seasonal decorations near your entrance to show potential buyers that the home is well-cared for throughout the year. This can be as simple as a wreath on the door or potted plants that change with the seasons. 

21. Install Modern House Numbers

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Upgrade your house numbers to a modern, stylish design that’s easily visible from the street. This small detail can make a big difference in your home’s overall appearance.

Use numbers that complement your home’s architecture and are large enough to be seen from the curb.

22. Add Privacy with Shrubs

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Plant a row of shrubs along your property line or near windows to add greenery while also providing privacy. Choose varieties that are appropriate for your climate and won’t grow too large for the space.

Well-placed shrubs can create a sense of seclusion without making your yard feel closed off.

23. Create a Rain Garden

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If you have a low-lying area in your yard, consider creating a rain garden to manage runoff and add unique beauty to your landscape. This eco-friendly feature can appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. Choose native plants that thrive in wet conditions for a low-maintenance solution.

24. Install Outdoor Art

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Place weather-resistant sculptures or wall art in your front yard to add personality and create points of interest. This should be visible from the street but doesn’t overwhelm the overall design of your yard.

25. Maintain Clean Edges

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Regularly edge your lawn along driveways, walkways, and garden beds to give your yard a neat, well-cared-for appearance.

Doing this simple maintenance task can make a big difference in your home’s overall curb appeal. Consider using a power edger for a crisp, professional look.

Source:
1. Bankrate

davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.