If you’re looking for ways to increase both the curb appeal and the value of your Middletown, KY, you’re probably wondering, “Does landscaping improve home value?” As the trusted provider of Middletown landscaping, Taylor Landscaping knows the features that provide the largest property value increase. From beautiful plants to stunning decks, you’ll appreciate the increase in both form and function.
Landscaping’s Effect on Property Value
Angi.com estimates landscaping can increase the value of your Middletown home by up to 30%. Landscaping includes everything from the plants you choose to the walkways and decks you install. It requires the perfect balance between hardscaping and softscaping.
Like interior design features, styles can change over time, and some landscaping features — such as those containing large bodies of water or bespoke designs — can lower property value. Emerging trends prioritize outdoor living spaces, which increase the space you have available for entertaining and help you enjoy the beautiful Kentucky weather throughout the spring, summer, and fall.
Which Landscaping Features Affect Middletown, KY, Home Value Most?
Does landscaping improve home value? From determining the right balance of shade in a landscape to selecting the right plants, when you choose the right landscaping company, they’ll know exactly which features are right for your yard. The following types of landscaping can improve the value of your Middletown home the most.
Decks
Decks can bring one of the highest returns on your landscaping investment as they recoup about 50% of their cost as increased property value. Therefore, if you spend around $20,000 on a new deck, you can assume it can add up to $10,000 worth of value to your home.
One disadvantage of decks is that they remain subject to increases in lumber prices. When lumber costs spiked during the pandemic, the feature’s average return on investment fell significantly.
The type of wood you choose matters as well. For example, decks created from composite wood only return about 40% of their value while also costing more to install. If property value is an important part of your decision-making process, ask your landscaping team which type of deck works best for your home.
Adult Trees
While outdoor entertainment spaces, like patios and gazebos, require hardscaping, potential homebuyers are looking for spaces that incorporate natural landscaping like mature trees. Many buyers prioritize a home with a sophisticated or classy design, and mature trees add a classic look.
When you look at other homes for ideas, you may find a high prevalence of shrubs. Many homeowners cut corners by planting bushes because they cost significantly less than trees (about 1/6th the price). However, if you’re thinking long-term, you’ll prioritize trees for the following reasons:
- You’ll need fewer trees than bushes. While you can buy six shrubs for the price of one tree, you might require at least that number to provide the same effect as a single tree.
- Once established, trees require less maintenance than shrubs.
- Trees provide a windbreak, shade, better curb appeal, and enrich the ecosystem of your yard.
Xeriscapes
Does landscaping improve home value? When you include low-maintenance plants, you can obtain more value from your investment.
As environmentalism becomes an increasingly important issue, many potential buyers prioritize homes with a sustainable design. Xeriscape refers to drought-resistant plants that need little water or irrigation. It uses less water, and it facilitates a responsible use of resources while still allowing beautiful plant life to permeate your yard.
Xeriscape returns about 12% of its value, but you should also factor in reduced maintenance and water costs into its overall return on your investment. In addition to certain plants, xeriscaping involves the following practices:
- Automated irrigation systems for the most efficient use of water
- Hardscaping features that reduce the need for grass
- Using rock or gravel rather than mulch
Sprinkler Systems
If you still want grass in your yard, rather than converting everything to a rock garden or other hardscaping features, consider installing a sprinkler system. It reduces the time you spend on maintenance, helps keep your yard looking healthy, and improves how efficiently you use your water.
The National Association of Realtors estimates that a sprinkler system offers an incredible 83% return, and over 90% of homeowners express a feeling of joy when talking about their sprinkler system.
Lighting
Does landscaping improve home value? If you add beautiful landscape lighting, you can use your entertainment at night and increase its marketability. It also increases your property’s safety and security. The NAR estimates the right landscape lighting can increase the value of your home by about 60% of your lighting’s cost.
Tips for Maintaining Your Home’s Landscaping
When you maintain your landscaping, you keep your curb appeal high, don’t see a reduction in your property value, and ensure you can enjoy it whenever you want. Consider the following tips for maintaining your landscaping:
- Hire professional help: For the best and most consistent results, you should rely on professional landscapers to maintain your lawn. You can still do some important work yourself, but hiring a professional landscaper produces the best results so you can maintain your property value.
- Perform regular weeding: Weeds can destroy your curb appeal and hurt the plants you’ve planted. Remove weeds early before they become a problem and stay vigilant for their presence.
- Practice lawn maintenance: During summer, regularly mow your lawn to keep your grass at a healthy level. In the fall, rake your leaves early before they accumulate and suffocate your grass.
- Prioritize tree care: Your trees are an important part of your landscaping, and if they become unhealthy, they can wreak havoc. Schedule regular tree inspections, trimming, and pruning.
Taylor Landscaping Creates Stunning and Beautiful Yards
Does landscaping improve home value? If you select the right features and design, you can greatly increase what potential buyers will pay for your home — and enjoy many other benefits. At Taylor Landscaping, we specialize in selecting and combining high-quality materials with expert design and installation. You can learn more about Taylor Landscaping and see why we’re Middletown’s first choice for beautiful properties.
To obtain a free estimate, fill out our online form or call 502-709-3708.
Recent Comments