Cincinnati Real Estate Blog

Attractive landscaping is one of the best ways to make a good first impression, help increase property value & show that a home is loved.

Though a well-designed landscape can be simple, it also can move far beyond a velvety lawn and colorful flower beds to encompass trees, shrubs, irrigation, and lighting. By making informed choices, home owners can transform their properties, whether they’re selling or just moved in and plan to stay for years.

When budgeting for a landscaping overhaul, home owners should plan to spend about 10 percent of the value of the home. To achieve a grander look, a bigger budget of 15 percent may be necessary.

Here are some simple projects that experts say will make a big impact on the property’s appearance — and possibly boost resale value.

• Plant trees. Trees look nice, cut down on heating and cooling costs, and can even help a home sell for more money, the USDA Forest Service says. Properly placing just three trees can save an average household between $100 and $250 in annual energy bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
• Go for year-round color. Rather than make do with empty beds and a brown lawn in winter, home owners can pick materials that remain green all year. Examples: evergreen arborvitae, junipers, and boxwood.
• Help the environment. There are dozens of ways to be a good environmental steward. A rain garden can retain water rather than send it into the nearest storm sewer. Large shade trees can screen a roof and windows from sun and block cold wind and air.
• Make your yard livable. A yard can be transformed into livable outdoor “rooms.” High on the wish list are outdoor kitchens and fire pits, and the newest star — media rooms.
• Just add water. Everyone loves water’s soothing sound, whether it cascades into a pond, fills a fountain, or churns in a hot tub.
• Build a pergola. A pergola — a set of columns supporting a roof of trelliswork on which climbing plants can grow — adds architectural interest, vertical growing space, and shade.

For Home Owners on a Budget

Landscaping doesn’t have to cost as much as your house. There also are many affordable improvements home owners can make to enhance curb appeal.

• Clear away lawn art, toys and other “clutter.”
• Edge beds and add fresh mulch.
• Paint or seal terraces and replace rotted wood.
• Add a touch of color. A few pots of tulips in March work magic; red and white colors add the most punch.
• Use container gardens. Pots are an affordable, portable way to line a path, embellish an entry, grow herbs, and decorate indoor rooms when weather changes.

Thanks

Julz Brown

Group Realtors

Licensed in Ohio & Kentucky

513.237.1072

Julz@SellingCincinnatiHomes.com