Does landscaping increase home value? Absolutely. A well-planned landscape not only boosts curb appeal but can also raise your property’s resale price by thousands. In fact, the landscape return on investment is among the highest of home upgrades, with many homeowners seeing a strong ROI on landscaping compared to other renovations. From creating inviting outdoor spaces to enhancing overall marketability, smart landscaping choices can make your home more appealing and more valuable.
Why Landscaping Matters
What is Landscaping in Terms of Home Value?
Landscaping is the process of designing, installing, and maintaining outdoor areas to make them more beautiful and useful. In real estate, property value landscaping means creating a well-planned yard that not only looks attractive but also adds measurable worth to the home.
Curb Appeal and First Impressions
When potential buyers pull up to a home, the exterior is the first thing they notice. This is where curb appeal value comes in. A neatly trimmed lawn, vibrant plants, and professional landscape design instantly communicate that the property is well cared for. A strong first impression often sets the tone for how buyers view the entire home.
What Research Says About Landscaping and Buyers
Studies show that buyers place high importance on landscaping when comparing homes. According to real estate surveys, well-maintained landscapes can increase a property’s perceived value by as much as 5–12%. Buyers often associate healthy lawns, outdoor lighting, and clean design with lower maintenance and higher quality living making landscaping a key deciding factor in the purchase process.
Understanding | Does Landscaping Increase Home Value?
Yes, landscaping does increase home value. A well-designed and properly maintained yard is one of the most cost-effective improvements a homeowner can make. Landscaping that adds value to a property improves both its appearance and its usefulness, making it more appealing to purchasers and more enjoyable for present owners.
Credible Data on ROI
Industry studies consistently show a strong ROI on landscaping.
- The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that homeowners can expect a 100%–200% return on certain landscaping projects.
- Virginia Tech research found that landscaping can increase a home’s overall value by 15%.
- According to Lawn & Landscape Magazine, landscaping ranks as one of the top three home improvements with the highest landscape return on investment, alongside kitchen and bathroom remodels.
These numbers highlight why landscaping is not just an expense it’s an investment in both immediate market value and long-term equity.
Factors That Influence ROI on Landscaping
- Location – Homes in competitive markets like California, Florida, or suburban neighborhoods see stronger returns from professional landscaping, as buyers compare properties side by side.
- Home Type – Luxury homes without quality landscaping often feel incomplete, while smaller homes with thoughtful outdoor design can command higher offers.
- Landscaping Quality – Professionally installed features such as irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, walkways, and native plantings provide better ROI than DIY or low-quality quick fixes.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Value
- Short-Term Benefits – Simple improvements such as seasonal flowers, fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, and edged lawns create instant curb appeal. This helps homes sell faster and often for a higher price.
- Long-Term Benefits – Features like mature trees, drought-resistant plantings, artificial turf, and well-planned hardscapes continue to increase property value year after year. These elements reduce maintenance costs, improve sustainability, and keep the home visually appealing long-term.
Why Landscaping is a Smart Investment
When considering home upgrades, landscaping stands out because it improves beauty, livability, and marketability all at once. Whether it’s enhancing curb appeal value for a faster sale or adding outdoor living spaces that buyers now prioritize, landscaping offers one of the best returns on investment in real estate today.
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How Landscaping Can Boost Your Home’s Value by $15,000 or More
Evidence That Landscaping Adds Significant Value
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homeowners can see a return of 100%–200% on their landscaping investment, often translating to $15,000 or more in added home value. Research from Virginia Tech also found that homes with well-designed landscapes can increase in value by up to 15% compared to similar properties with poor landscaping. Clearly, property value landscaping is one of the smartest ways to maximize resale potential.
Landscaping Improvements That Drive the Most Value
1. Lawn Care & Turf Quality
A healthy, green lawn immediately improves curb appeal value. Regular mowing, fertilization, aeration, and even artificial turf installation can dramatically impact buyer perception. Well-kept turf is often seen as a sign of a well-maintained property overall.
2. Trees and Shrubs
Mature trees not only add beauty but also provide shade, lower cooling costs, and enhance privacy. Strategically placed shrubs and hedges frame the home and create a polished, inviting look. In many cases, the presence of mature trees alone can add thousands of dollars to a property’s market value.
3. Outdoor Lighting
Landscape lighting extends usability of outdoor spaces and highlights key features at night. From pathway lights to accent lighting on trees or architecture, this upgrade boosts safety, security, and aesthetics making it one of the highest ROI landscaping improvements.
4. Pathways, Patios, and Hardscapes
Well-designed hardscapes like patios, walkways, or retaining walls create functional spaces for entertaining and movement. Buyers today often prioritize outdoor living, making these additions highly valuable. Durable materials such as stone or pavers further enhance the upscale look of a home.
5. Low-Maintenance, Eco-Friendly Designs
More and more people are choosing sustainable options like plants that can survive droughts, drip irrigation, or gardening with native species. These upgrades not only reduce water and maintenance costs but also appeal to environmentally conscious buyers, enhancing long-term property value landscaping.
Aesthetic and Functional Benefits Combined
The true power of landscaping lies in how it blends beauty with practicality. A colorful garden creates a welcoming first impression, while functional features like lighting and patios improve day-to-day living. Together, these elements maximize curb appeal value, increase home desirability, and can add $15,000 or more to your property’s resale price.
Landscaping Projects That Increase Home Value
Not all landscaping projects deliver the same return. Some upgrades consistently rank higher in terms of resale value and buyer appeal. Below are the top projects, ranked by their potential ROI.
1. Professional Landscape Design Plans
A professionally designed plan ensures your outdoor space is cohesive, functional, and tailored to your property. Homes with professional landscaping often sell faster and for more money because buyers see a polished, move-in-ready exterior. ROI: Up to 200%
2. Outdoor Living Spaces (Fire Pits, Patios, Kitchens)
Buyers increasingly view outdoor areas as extensions of the home. Features like fire pits, patios, or outdoor kitchens create entertainment value and lifestyle appeal. ROI: 100–150%
3. Landscape Lighting for Safety and Ambiance
Well-placed lighting improves safety by illuminating pathways and adds dramatic nighttime curb appeal. Highlighting trees, gardens, and architectural details can make a home stand out in competitive markets. ROI: 50–100%
4. Artificial Turf Installation for Low-Maintenance Lawns
Artificial turf offers a lush, green look year-round without watering or mowing. This is especially valuable in regions where water conservation or low maintenance is a priority. ROI: 50–80%
5. Sustainable Features (Native Plants, Drip Irrigation)
Eco-friendly landscapes save money over time and attract environmentally conscious buyers. Native plants require less water and upkeep, while drip irrigation reduces waste and ensures efficient watering. ROI: 40–70%
Work with Lakota Design Group
If you’re ready to invest in landscaping that truly increases home value, Lakota Design Group specializes in professional landscape design service in San Jose. With over 49 years of experience, we create tailored designs that blend beauty, function, and long-term value for your property.
Final Thoughts
Yes landscaping does increase home value. From curb appeal to functional outdoor spaces, the right upgrades make homes more desirable and valuable. At Lakota Design Group, we provide expert landscape installation services in San Jose to help you achieve both beauty and lasting value. Contact us today to start your landscape transformation!
FAQs
1. Does Landscaping Really Increase Home Value?
Yes. Studies show that well-designed landscaping can increase a home’s value by 5–15%. It improves curb appeal, makes a strong first impression, and adds functional outdoor space buyers love.
2. What Type Of Landscaping Adds The Most Value?
High-ROI upgrades include professional landscape design, outdoor living areas (like patios or fire pits), landscape lighting, artificial turf, and sustainable features such as native plants or drip irrigation.
3. How Much Can Landscaping Increase My Home’s Value?
On average, quality landscaping can add $10,000–$15,000 or more to your home’s resale price, depending on location, project type, and quality of installation.
4. Is Landscaping A Good Return On Investment?
Yes. Landscaping often delivers an ROI of 100%–200%, making it one of the top improvements for resale. It’s more cost-effective than many interior renovations.
5. How Long Does It Take To See The Benefits Of Landscaping?
Some benefits, like improved curb appeal, are immediate. Long-term upgrades like trees, hardscapes, or turf can continue adding value for years through reduced maintenance and lasting beauty.
