Everybody wants to increase the value of their home, and one of the best ways to do that is by sprucing up your first impression. The curb appeal of your home is vital because the exterior is the first thing potential buyers and visitors will notice. Keeping your landscape well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing will significantly boost your property’s appeal – which can have a significant impact on the market value. Even if you don’t plan on selling your home anytime soon, it can give you a sense of pride and enjoyment in your home, as well.
Curb appeal is more than just some kind of buzzword, it’s a key factor in real estate. Attractive homes are more valuable, because the exterior typically sets the tone for what lies inside. That can influence a buyer’s perception of a property before they even set foot into the space. A well-landscaped yard can make your home look more inviting and well kept, which might turn into a deciding factor in a buyer’s mind. Even if you don’t know where to start, working with trusted Denver landscaping services can point you in the right direction to get the most from your landscaping.
Financial Impact on Home Value
Investing in landscaping can bring significant returns when it comes to selling your home. It has been proven in multiple studies that homes with strong curb appeal tend to sell faster than homes that have put less attention on the exterior. However, it’s important to understand that this is only one aspect of your home. Breaking the bank to get fantastic curb appeal might not bring back the returns you had hoped for. That makes it important to strike a balance between the cost of the upgrades and their overall impact.
Simple improvements that are well-executed can go a long way in creating lasting impact. For example, mulching your flower beds and strategically placing one or two new trees can create a whole new look. Maintaining a green and healthy lawn can also make a big difference. However, if you have the budget for more expensive improvements, they can also make a drastic impact. Adding a new walkway or ramp can make the home more accessible, while adding water features like fountains can also improve the overall aesthetic. Upgrading your outdoor lighting can further enhance the appeal and value of your home, as well.
Proper Lawn Care & Maintenance
The front lawn is usually the largest and most visible aspect of any home’s landscape. That means having a lush, green, and well-maintained lawn will be the central foundation of your curb appeal. Regular mowing, watering, fertilization, and aeration are essential practices. In arid climates like Colorado, lawns can quickly become dry or develop bare patches. Be sure to reseed those bare patches with high-quality grass seed to ensure that your lawn maintains a lush and uniform look.
Clean, sharp edges along driveways, flower beds, sidewalks, and other walkways can create a sleek and polished appearance. Edging can not only define specific areas of your yard and landscape, but it can also help prevent grass and other weeds from growing and encroaching into unwanted areas. Weeds are the biggest issue with your lawn, as nothing will take away your lawn’s spectacular look and uniformity more quickly. Be sure to implement a consistent regimen of weed control. One crucial way to help is to include pre-emergent herbicides in this regimen, as it will help curb weed growth in early spring. Also be sure to perform spot treatments as needed to keep your lawn looking perfect.
Hardscaping Elements
Not everything has to be about the green plants when landscaping. Upgrading your walkways and driveways with materials like pavers, natural stone, or stamped concrete can deliver a unique look that can set your home apart from the others in your neighborhood. A well-designed walkway can guide visitors to your front door while adding to the overall aesthetic of your landscape. If your property has slopes or other elevation changes, retaining walls can help prevent erosion while adding a striking visual element. These walls can also create tiered garden spaces for planting.
When adding walkways or other significant changes, be sure to pay attention to the lighting. Proper lighting enhances safety, but it can also highlight the best features of your landscape. Using a combination of path lights, uplights, and spotlights to illuminate walkways, trees, and other unique architectural details of your property. Don’t forget about fences, too. A well-selected fence can provide privacy, security, and a modern finished look to your property. When choosing fencing, be sure to consider materials that complement the style of your home – such as wood or vinyl. There are also a number of ornamental fences that come in a variety of materials that can accentuate the look of your home.
Sustainable Landscaping in Colorado
Because of Colorado’s climate, xeriscaping has become increasingly popular in recent years. Xeriscaping is a water-efficient landscaping technique that reduces the need for irrigation by using plants that are more tolerant to dry or drought conditions. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but xeriscaping is also very cost effective in the long run. With more and more buyers looking for properties with the xeriscape design in Colorado, it’s become a good, versatile way to increase property values.
Permeable hardscapes are also an option, as these are an alternative to traditional concrete that allows water to filter through into the ground. This type of hardscape can significantly eliminate storm water runoff because of its porous nature. This helps protect local waterways like small rivers and creeks, and a lot for water conservation. Erosion control is also vital to sustainable landscape design, and this can be accomplished through things like retaining walls and well placed terrace gardens. Be sure to talk to your trusted Denver landscaping services to find out more.
Functional Spaces
Paying attention to your patios and driveways can also make a huge impression with your curb appeal. A well-designed front porch or patio can serve as an extension of your living space. Add in comfortable seating, planters, or other decorative elements, and you can create a very welcoming entryway. This can also drastically change the overall look to the front of your home. One of the first things people see is your driveway, and (if space allows) expanding your driveway can be a great option. This expansion can be to add more room to accommodate more vehicles, or it could create a turn-around area. A wider driveway not only improves functionality, but also curb appeal.
Even small changes can make a big difference, so don’t forget about other periphery things that might be present in front of your house. Upgrading your mailbox or house numbers might seem like a small and insignificant change, but updating these can really complement the style of your home. Choosing materials and designs that add character can spruce up the space, but they will also remain functional and easy to read.
Plant Selection & Placement
Choosing the right plants can have an enormous impact on your landscaping. Selecting plants that are native to your region can save time, money, and resources. Native plants are often a great choice because they are generally more resistant to local pests and diseases, and they also often require less water and maintenance. Perennials and annuals are also more cost-effective choices. Perennials return year after year, making them a great choice for long-term curb appeal while remaining in your budget. Annuals need to be replaced every year, but offer vibrant colors throughout their growing season. Combining the two can provide year-round interest with your landscaping.
Creating focal points with flowering shrubs or flower beds can also develop into a lot of visual interest. Ornamental trees are another option, as these elements are built to draw the eye and add layers of depth to your overall landscape. Be sure to plan your plantings with a cohesive color scheme in mind. Harmonizing colors can create a unified look, while contrasting colors can deliver a sense of excitement and drama. It’s important to develop a look that caters to your tastes while living in the home, or to remain more neutral when trying to sell your home.
Maintain and Update
Keeping your landscape looking its best comes through regular upkeep. Prune your shrubs and trees, and remove dead or faded flowers from plants. That can encourage more blooms and help your plants look better. Refreshing your landscape with seasonal plantings, mulch, and other décor can also keep your outdoor area looking lively throughout the year.
Remember, plants will grow and mature, and your landscape will continue to evolve. Plan for the future by considering these growth habits, and make your adjustments as needed. There are plenty of resources out there, and there are a number of ways to improve the value of your home through landscaping – under any budget. For more information, reach out to the experts at My Son’s Landscaping & Fencing today.
