A well-landscaped home not only looks beautiful but can significantly boost your property’s value. According to a study by Virginia Tech, landscaping can increase a home’s value by 5.5% to 12.7%.1
With the potential for such a substantial return on investment, it’s worth exploring some unexpected ways to enhance your outdoor space. Here are 10 surprising landscaping tricks that could send your home’s value soaring:
1. Create an Outdoor Living Room
Extending your living space outdoors can make your property more appealing to potential buyers. Consider adding a deck, patio, or pergola with comfortable seating and outdoor lighting. This addition can increase your home’s usable square footage and create an inviting atmosphere for entertaining.
2. Install Smart Irrigation Systems
Water-efficient landscaping is becoming increasingly important to homebuyers. Installing a smart irrigation system that adjusts watering based on weather conditions can save money on water bills and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
3. Plant Trees Strategically
Mature trees can add significant value to your property. The Arbor Day Foundation reports that trees can increase property values by up to 15%.(ref) Plant shade trees on the south and west sides of your home to reduce cooling costs and create a more pleasant outdoor environment.
4. Incorporate Edible Landscaping
Integrating fruit trees, berry bushes, and herb gardens into your landscape design can appeal to the growing interest in home food production. This unique feature can set your property apart and attract buyers interested in sustainable living.
5. Add a Water Feature
A well-designed water feature, such as a fountain or small pond, can create a focal point in your yard and provide a sense of tranquility. The sound of running water can also help mask noise from nearby roads or neighbors.
6. Create Privacy with Landscaping
Using plants to create natural privacy screens can be more attractive than fences and increase your property’s perceived value. Consider fast-growing evergreens or ornamental grasses to define boundaries and create intimate outdoor spaces.
7. Invest in Professional Landscape Lighting
Well-planned outdoor lighting can dramatically enhance your home’s curb appeal and extend the usability of outdoor spaces into the evening hours. Highlight key features of your landscaping and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
8. Incorporate Low-Maintenance Native Plants
Choosing native plants adapted to your local climate can reduce maintenance needs and appeal to buyers looking for eco-friendly landscaping. Native plants often require less water and fertilizer, making them a sustainable choice.
9. Add a Focal Point with Hardscaping
Incorporating hardscaping elements like a stone pathway, retaining wall, or fire pit can add visual interest and functionality to your outdoor space. These features can create defined areas within your landscape and increase its overall appeal.
10. Maintain a Healthy, Lush Lawn
While low-maintenance landscaping is popular, a well-maintained lawn still holds significant appeal for many buyers. Regular mowing, fertilizing, and overseeding can keep your lawn looking its best and contribute to strong curb appeal.
Source:
1. pubs.ext.vt.edu
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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.