An underappreciated aspect of property selling, leasing, and buying is evaluating the quality and maintenance requirements of landscaping. Much focus is placed on electricity, heating and cooling, etc., but don’t underestimate the value that quality landscaping can bring to a property.
Just think about it, if you saw two clones of the exact same property, but one had a gorgeous, well-manicured yard, and the other had a neglected, derelict yard, which one would you choose? While this may seem like common sense, people quickly forget what a standout yard can do for the bottom line. Here are a few things to think about in relation to landscaping and real estate.
1. A well-landscaped yard/garden raises the property value.
Curb appeal, baby. When people are touring a property, it needs to look good.
Furthermore, quality landscaping does more than just up the appearance of a property. It can actually improve the energy efficiency too. Well-planned trees and shrubs will provide shade and cooling air to a building.
Patios, outdoor fire-pits, fountains, and ponds can all be difference-makers. In most cases, the front yard will be the first impression when selling a property. Make it a good one.
When in doubt, stay simple. Complicated, busy landscaping with “hard to care-for” plants and bushes may be a deterrent.
2. Staging.
But what do you do if your listed property does not come with a killer yard? Similar to how you would stage the interior of your property, you can do the same with the outside too.
Take the time to mow the lawn, remove any clutter, blow off the driveways and walkways, and diligently weed.
If you have a deck or patio, stage it with patio furniture. An outdoor couch, barbecue, table and chairs, and a sunshade will do wonders. The property buyer will be more likely to purchase if they see the best version of the house.
3. Landscaping addendum:
Don’t forget about the addendums. Addendums can be an essential part of an agreement, and while they can be added at any time, it is always best to do that at the time of lease or sale. When leasing, it is essential to clarify who is responsible for lawn care and maintenance or repairs of plants, trees, and other landscaping features.
When in doubt, contact a professional. Your landscape professionals have worked on thousands of yards and can provide your client with expert advice on how to prepare their yard for lease or sale.