How Your Yard Impacts the Market Price of Your Home

In real estate, perception is everything. If potential homebuyers like what they see outside of the home, they are far more likely to want to venture forth to the home's interior.

Design

The Michigan State University researchers asked participants to place a perceived value on the homes used in the study. They valued those with "sophisticated" landscaping the most.

So, what exactly is sophisticated landscaping?

The researchers mentioned above define it as a landscape in balance. No exterior element overwhelms the others. For example, the number and size of large, deciduous trees are balanced with the number of shrubs, other plants, and hardscape elements.

Hardscape includes anything that isn't organic, such as birdbaths, pavers, statuary, and gravel. 

Diversity

The study also found that the diversity of landscape materials can impact the home's value as well. 

Ensure a balance of color in the yard by planting colorful annuals in beddings, borders, and even patio pots. Then, add another splash of color with hardscape materials. This can include anything from a charming birdbath or fountain to colored mulch.

Curb appeal is critical to realizing the most money possible from the sale of your home.