How Landscaping Increases the Value of Your Home

Claudia Parrott
December 8, 2023

Landscaping not only enhances the beauty of your home but can also significantly boost its market value. By focusing on garden design and planting, you can create a visually appealing outdoor space that appeals to potential buyers.

Various studies reveal that if your home’s landscaping is thoughtfully designed and well kept, it could lead to an increase in your property’s value by about 5% to 15%. This notable rise in value could translate to an added several thousand dollars to your home’s worth.

Curb Appeal, Curb Appeal, and Curb Appeal!!

Visual Impact: The visual impact of a property is its first point of interaction with potential buyers. A well-landscaped yard with a mix of flowering plants, shrubs, and neatly trimmed lawns can dramatically enhance this visual appeal.
Emotional Appeal: Beautiful landscaping can evoke an emotional response, making a property feel more welcoming and desirable.
Stand Out in the Market: A property with superior curb appeal can stand out in a competitive real estate market, attracting more potential buyers and possibly even sparking bidding wars.

Landscaping’s Impact on Property Value and ROI

Percentage Increase: While the exact increase in value depends on various factors, including the quality of landscaping and the property’s location, an increase of 5% to 15% is a significant boost in the property’s overall value.
Investment Return: Landscaping improvements can offer a high return on investment compared to other home improvements. This is particularly true for mature gardens and well-established trees.

How Much Should I Invest in my Landscape?

The amount you should invest in landscaping depends on several factors, including the value of your home, your financial situation, and the typical landscaping standards in your neighborhood. Here are some general guidelines to help you decide:

Percentage of Home Value: A common rule of thumb is to invest about 10% of your home’s value in landscaping. For example, if your home is valued at $300,000, you might consider spending around $30,000 on landscaping. However, this is a flexible guideline and can vary based on specific needs and local real estate market conditions.
Local Market and Neighborhood Standards: Consider the landscaping norms in your neighborhood and local area. If most homes have modest landscaping, a high investment might not yield a proportional increase in property value. Conversely, in areas where elaborate gardens are standard, investing more might be necessary to keep up with the market.
Purpose of Landscaping: Your reason for landscaping can also influence your budget. If you’re landscaping primarily for your own enjoyment, you might choose to spend more or less depending on your preferences. If you’re landscaping to sell your home, focus on projects with the best return on investment, like enhancing curb appeal.
Maintenance and Upkeep Costs: Factor in the long-term maintenance costs. More complex landscapes with exotic plants, water features, or extensive gardens can require more maintenance, potentially leading to higher ongoing costs.
Personal Financial Situation: It’s crucial to consider your own financial situation. Avoid overextending your budget. Landscaping should be a financially comfortable investment, not a financial strain.

The Benefits of Hiring a Landscape Designer

Spending a couple hundred dollars on a professional landscape designer can be a wise investment for several key reasons, especially when considering the return on investment (ROI) for your property:

Expertise: A landscape designer’s expert knowledge in plant selection and design can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, which is key to increasing property value.
Cost-Effective Design: Designers provide cost-effective solutions, recommending materials and plants that offer the best value, thereby ensuring a good return on your investment.
Time-Saving: They save you time by efficiently planning and executing landscaping projects, avoiding common mistakes and trial-and-error approaches.
Tailored to Your Needs: Designers can create a space that suits your lifestyle, whether it’s a low-maintenance garden or an entertainment area, adding both personal enjoyment and market appeal.