Boosting Home Value with Landscaping
Real Examples and Step-by-Step Tips from a Landmark Study
When selling a home, the first impression is more than a nice-to-have — it’s a major factor in final sale price. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture proves that well-designed landscaping and attractive curb appeal can increase home values by 5% to 11% — a significant difference in competitive markets.
Here’s a breakdown of the findings and exactly what you can do to apply them, with examples and practical steps for homeowners, investors, and real estate agents.
🌳 Finding #1: Great Landscaping Can Add 5–11% to a Home’s Value
What the study showed:
Homes with excellent landscaping sold for thousands more than similar homes with minimal or poor landscaping. Even modest houses increased in value significantly with the right curb appeal.
✅ Step-by-Step: How to Upgrade Landscaping for Maximum Value
Example:
A $350,000 home with poor landscaping could become a $375,000–$390,000 property with a few strategic upgrades.
Do this:
Start with a clean-up: Remove weeds, dead plants, and debris.
Install edging around flower beds and walkways.
Add 3–5 different plant varieties — aim for varied height, color, and texture.
Lay down fresh mulch in all garden beds.
Hire a local pro like Top Branch Tree Service to inspect and shape trees to look clean and healthy.
Cost: $2,000–$3,500
Estimated return: $15,000–$40,000, depending on market
🌿 Finding #2: Tree Size and Placement Matter
What the study showed:
Mature trees — especially those placed symmetrically in front yards or shading walkways — had the strongest influence on sale price.
✅ Step-by-Step: Plant or Feature Trees That Pay Off
Example:
A small ranch-style home with two large maple trees near the street sold for 7% more than similar properties in the same neighborhood.
Do this:
Plant trees strategically — near corners or to frame the house (not block it).
Choose fast-growing, low-maintenance species like:
Red Maple
River Birch
Serviceberry
Mulch and edge around tree bases to define them.
Trim branches to avoid obstruction and create symmetry.
Cost: $400–$1,000/tree
Estimated return: 3–7% increase in sale price
🏡 Finding #3: Landscaping Can Outshine a Plain House
What the study showed:
Buyers will pay more for a simple house with excellent landscaping than for a beautiful house with poor landscaping.
✅ Step-by-Step: Make Landscaping the Hero
Example:
A 1,200 sq. ft. home with average siding but fresh beds, full shrubs, and a tree canopy attracted more buyers and sold in half the average market time.
Do this:
Use foundation plantings (shrubs or small trees close to the house) to create a framed, finished look.
Add annual flowers or perennials for color near the entry.
Install solar landscape lighting to highlight your upgrades at dusk.
Cost: $1,500–$3,000
Pro Tip: Take before and after photos and use them in listing marketing.
🛠️ Finding #4: Home Exterior Still Counts — Especially When Combined with Landscaping
What the study showed:
Siding quality, paint, porch condition, and roofing mattered too — but had the greatest impact when paired with well-maintained landscaping.
✅ Step-by-Step: Combine House Facelift with Landscape Upgrades
Example:
A flip project with fresh mulch, painted shutters, new porch posts, and planters on the steps sold for 8% more than comps.
Do this:
Repaint or pressure-wash exterior siding.
Replace or repaint the front door.
Repair railings, steps, or front porches.
Add large potted plants with seasonal flowers at the entry.
Cost: $2,000–$6,000
Best Practice: Coordinate colors between the home and plantings (e.g., warm-toned flowers with tan siding).
🧠 Finding #5: Buyers Make Decisions in the First 10 Seconds
What the study implies:
Curb appeal sets expectations. Great landscaping creates emotional buy-in before buyers even step inside.
✅ Step-by-Step: Craft a Front Yard That Sells the Whole Home
Example:
A real estate agent staged a home’s exterior with:
Mowed lawn
Fresh mulch
Two hanging baskets on the porch
A clean path and welcome mat
The result? 7 offers within 72 hours.
Do this:
Power-wash sidewalks and driveways.
Keep the lawn freshly mowed and edged.
Add seasonal interest (pumpkins, mums, or evergreen wreaths).
Include clear signage that welcomes and guides buyers.
Cost: Under $1,000
Return: Faster sale, better offers, less negotiation
🌟 Final Thoughts: Landscaping Is a Top ROI for Sellers
This landmark study proves that landscaping isn’t just cosmetic — it’s a proven financial investment. In a market where every dollar counts, boosting curb appeal can lead to faster sales and higher closing prices.
Ready to Upgrade Your Property’s Landscape?
Let certified professionals help you make the most of your trees, lawn, and exterior environment. Top Branch Tree Service works with realtors, investors, and homeowners across Maine to make properties more valuable — from the curb to the canopy.
To read the study for yourself click here: https://meridian.allenpress.com/jeh/article/30/4/182/79363/Landscape-and-House-Appearance-Impacts-on-the