The aesthetics of a home aren't just confined to its walls. The greenery that surrounds it, the layout of the garden, and the overall landscaping play a pivotal role in determining its value. A recent article from the Marin Independent Journal delves into this very topic, emphasizing the growing trend of homeowners investing in landscaping to elevate their property's worth.
Landscaping: More Than Just Curb Appeal
Landscaping can significantly impact the first impression a home makes. The front lawn leading to your door is usually what a visitor notices first, and the view out the back can enhance the ambiance of interior rooms. But how crucial is it to invest in curb appeal to improve your home’s value?
The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) claims that professional landscaping can increase a home’s price tag by 15 to 20 percent at the time of resale. Bryan McKenzie, a landscape designer and co-founder of bumpercroptimes.com, further emphasizes that high-quality landscape designs can have an ROI of 20 to 30 percent of the overall house value.
Understanding Landscaping
Landscaping encompasses the exterior area around a residence, including both its design and individual elements. Softscaping refers to living things like flowers, plants, trees, gardens, and natural ground coverings. In contrast, hardscaping pertains to non-biological features like steps, paved paths, and fountains.
Modern Landscaping Trends
Britt Wood, CEO of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, highlights that outdoor living space enhancements, such as expansions of decks and patios, fireplaces, dining areas, and covered gazebos or pergolas, are gaining popularity. However, it's essential to note that a project's popularity doesn't necessarily translate to added value for the next homeowner.
Research by Alex X. Niemiera, a horticulturist at Virginia Tech, found that a well-landscaped home had a 5.5 percent to 12.7 percent price advantage over a home with no landscaping. This could mean an extra $16,500 to $38,100 in value on a $300,000 home.
Landscaping Projects That Add Value
- Decks: Decks are the only landscaping project to make the list on Remodeling.com’s annual Cost vs Value study. Despite the rising lumber prices, wood decks still outperform composite decks in terms of ROI.
- Mature Trees: Investing in larger trees and mature greenery can enhance the sophistication of your landscaping design.
- Xeriscaping: With climate change bringing warmer temperatures, xeriscaping or using drought-friendly plants and features is becoming more popular. This approach can eliminate many maintenance costs associated with traditional landscape designs.
- Sprinkler Systems: A sprinkler system can help maintain a lush lawn efficiently. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a sprinkler/irrigation system has an 83 percent ROI.
- Landscape Lighting: This not only enhances aesthetics but also augments safety and security.
- Lawn and Landscape Maintenance: Simple maintenance like mowing and pruning can offer a whopping 104 percent ROI.
Landscaping Projects to Approach with Caution
While landscaping can add significant value, some projects might not appeal to a broad audience. Projects that are too niche, high maintenance, or costly can potentially decrease property value. For instance, swimming pools, ponds, and elaborate constructions like outdoor kitchens might not always yield a positive return on investment.
Landscaping Tips for Maximum ROI
- Keep it simple and generic.
- Add lighting for drama and safety.
- Do thorough research on costs and materials.
- Collaborate with local nurseries for design ideas.
In Conclusion
Landscaping trends may evolve, but the principles remain consistent: opt for low-maintenance, attractive projects that enhance the home's usability and enjoyment. Avoid overly personalized or expensive projects and focus on beautification that appeals to a broad audience.
If you are looking for a home in the area, I’d love to help. Text me.
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