If you’re thinking about selling your home or just want to boost the curb appeal, you’re probably wondering: Does landscaping increase the value of your home? The short answer is yes, you can. In fact, the American Landscaping Association (ASLA) estimates that landscaping investments can increase the value of a home by up to 15% to 20%.
But like most home improvement projects, the impact depends on what you are doing, how well you are doing, and what your local buyers are actually looking for.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your landscaping in Portland or Denver, Colorado, you can decide what (and investment) is worth the effort.
Does landscaping increase the value of your home?
Your first instinct may be to see how much your home is worth, if you are selling small upgrades to increase your resale value, or simply considering it. It’s a great starting point, but even small updates can have a big impact on its value, so it’s important to make sure your home is in tip condition first.
Landscaping may not be the first to think about when you think about increasing the value of your home, but it can have a surprising impact. The American Association of Landscape Architects estimates that quality landscaping can add somewhere between 15% and 20% to your home’s overall value.
Don’t know which home improvement projects add the most value? Start with one of the most popular upgrades: landscaping. Not only does it increase the curb appeal, it also provides return on investment (ROI).
Why is landscaping important for home buyers?
First impression number. For buyers, the impression usually starts from the curb. And yes, we’re talking about your landscaping. As A-Tech Appraisal appraiser Spencer W. Webb advises, “The curb appeal creates a strong first impression. It focuses on landscaping, exterior paints, and clean and welcoming entries.”
A well-maintained landscaping will send a strong signal that the home is being cared for. On the other hand, it is important to stay at the top of your garden, as overgrown shrubs and patchy lawns can raise concerns about the overall condition of the property before the buyer can pass through the door.
Landscaping Projects that add value
Not all yard upgrades are created equally. Based on ANGI’s recommendations, here are the projects and ROIs that have the biggest impact.
Improvement Type Why adds why a valuable, well-maintained lawn gives a strong first impression. Shows consistent care. At maintenance, a 217% ROI appeals to buyers looking for a ready outdoor space. The upgraded front walkway costs between $400 and $1,600 to enhance visual entry. It uses attractive materials like flagstones. It’s cheap yet has a high impact of 100% ROI. Material costs are ~$2~$6/sq. ft. Planting trees adds privacy, energy savings, shade and visual interest. Mature trees are extremely valuable, increasing by $1,000-10,000 per tree landscape. Increased curb appeal and safety adds a value of $2,500. 59% ROI deck or patio expands available living space. Considered as a High Roy Hardscape Upgrade Deck: 89% ROI. Patio: 95% ROI
Factors that increase the value of landscaping
Size and Design: The layout that fits your garden and complements your home will make a big difference. Balanced planting, clear paths and usable outdoor spaces add to the curb’s appeal. Quality: Good materials such as mature trees, healthy plants, stones and pavement indicate that the landscaping was done correctly. Buyers will immediately take up the quality. Maintenance: A garden that is easy to care for without looking empty is a big plus. Think of plants with little maintenance, neat lawns and beautiful edges. It’s not like a lot of work, it needs to be taken care of.
Things to avoid when refreshing your landscaping
Too many personalizations: Wild Rock Garden or Coy Pond may be your pride and joy, but if it’s high maintenance or a super niche, it could turn the buyer off. Do it over: Landscaping should complement your home rather than compete with your home. Clean, simple and maintained usually wins. Artificial grass: It may seem like a low maintenance victory, but some buyers see it as negative. It can get hot, it doesn’t always look natural and isn’t the most eco-friendly choice. Seasonal Plants: Don’t rely solely on plants that shine for 1-2 months. Go for the greenery that looks good all year round and your garden stays attractive no matter the season.
Budget-friendly Landscaping Upgrade
Buyers tend to prefer low maintenance landscaping that appears neat. If you don’t have a huge budget, don’t worry – even small improvements can make a big difference:
Select native plants. They are easier to care for and thrive with less water. Replace annuals with perennials: Enjoy your plants once, for years. Skip Grass: Try ground cover, gravel or mulch. Add mulch: Reduce weeds and give everything a fresh look. Drip Irrigation: Use Set and Forget It methods to keep your plants happy. Go to drought tolerance: less water, less work, still beautiful. Choose a simple shrub or grass: Think of evergreen trees and decorative grass that are easy to see all year round. Keep the edges clean: defined beds and neat passages make a big difference.
Should you go professional or DIY?
When it comes to landscaping your home and increasing its value, you can decide whether to work on your own project or hire an expert. Both options offer perks, but if you’re not sure where to start, understanding the benefits of each approach can help you make the best choice for your budget, timeline, and vision.
A quick comparison from Nico Lock breaks down what it’s like to DIY or hire a professional, depending on the area of concern.
Category DIY employs a specialized design. With expert guidance, the design meets aesthetic and functional standards. Costs allocate more funds for materials and functions such as fire pits and outdoor kitchens. Expert fees may limit the budget for additional features. At the skill level, you gain hands-on experience and gain a deeper understanding of the principles of landscape design. Benefit from specialized expertise and quality assurance. Time commitment requires a significant personal time investment. Experts manage projects efficiently and save time. Material access limited to retail materials. Premium resources may not be accessible. Access to high quality materials and industry connections. There is a high possibility of a risk management error. This can lead to costly corrections. Experts ensure compliance with codes and standards and reduce risk.
Smart Landscaping is a victory for homeowners and buyers
So does landscaping add value to your home? Absolutely – especially when it is well planned and maintained. Whether you’re preparing to sell or just taking more pride in your garden, thoughtful landscaping can pay back a big amount of time, both financially and emotionally.
It doesn’t have to be excessive or expensive. Start with the basics: Make things neat, healthy and welcome. Your home (and your future buyers) will thank you.
