How Much Value Does Landscaping Add to a Home
Landscaping is an important factor when it comes to determining the value of a property. The courtyard offers a first impression of the property that potential buyers carry when entering the property. Every sought after commercial property has an outstanding courtyard landscape. Property management companies with a luxury portfolio will always go above and beyond to have an enhanced courtyard, after all, a nice landscape design will be conducive to lowering the vacancy rate and increase the overall value.
Does landscaping improve property value?
According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), professional landscaping can add 15% to 20% to a property’s price tag at the time of resale. But note that not all landscaping projects can improve property value. Rather, it can potentially decrease the value of your property as the landscape can be seen as burdensome to maintain or even as a safety hazard.
Sought-after landscaping projects to increase property value
Some landscaping projects are rather popular among buyers as they are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. Among these are,
Decks
Matured trees
Xeriscaping (a landscape style that requires little to no irrigation)
Landscaping projects that decrease property value
Some garden landscaping that is seen as too common or “too niche” is generally avoided by potential buyers, such as Asian zen gardens or cactus gardens. Landscape projects that are too high-maintenance can also decrease your property value. Though green lawns are attractive, they are impractical in dry areas due to their high water requirements. Other water-based projects, such as swimming pools, ponds, waterfalls etc., are generally repellent to potential property owners, especially if they have children or pets. Non-generic features such as outdoor kitchens, tennis courts or other trendy ideas would be a great addition to your property if you plan on selling it.
Final Words
Thus, your landscape is something that should be taken into serious consideration when buying or selling…or even if you are leasing. As a buyer, is it worth putting it as a permanent fixture in your property maintenance budget? As a seller, will it improve curb appeal and increase the value of your property? Either way, you must always remember to practice due diligence when embarking on landscape projects.
