Good landscaping says a lot about a property. It is one of the first things a buyer sees when they check out a house and is a good indicator of how well a property is cared for. So, it is not surprising that many investors turn to quality landscaping to add value to a home.
Blake Anderson, director at Melbourne-based landscaping firm Nomark, says Australia’s geography and a change in people’s lifestyles have emphasised the need for a good landscaping.
“The Australian climate is so inviting for spending time outside,” he says. “As a result, people are now investing in the backyard as if it’s one of the most important rooms in the home due to size, scalability, and lifestyle benefits. Spending time in the garden is also relaxing and offers a totally different experience compared to any other place in the home.”
How can landscaping improve the value of a property?
Some investors say that property value and landscape go together. A healthy lawn, lush foliage, well-placed accents, and functional features enhance visual appeal and can add tens of thousands of dollars to the value of a property.
Anderson lists some important points to consider when doing your own landscaping.
- What do my family and I like to do?
- What is going to be the most effective way to draw me and my family outside?
- What boundary heights do I need to achieve visual control?
- What plants are proven to grow well in my area?
Landscaping and the age of social media
In today’s digital era, social media plays a crucial role in influencing the buying decisions of consumers.
Claudio Cuomo, real estate specialist at property firm Claudio+Marwan Residential, says the importance of having a great online presence is amplified in the property sector where aesthetics is vital.
“First impressions of a home are important now more than ever,” he says. “With the ever-increasing power of digital and online, your next potential buyer can decide in foul swipe whether to click on your home or not.”
“If done right, focussing on improving landscaping for streetscape appearance and funky fresh outdoor zone can add tens of thousands to an owner’s bottom line sale price. It will create more clicks, more views, more heads through the front door, which when it comes to selling your home is equal to more competition and a far stronger sale price,” he says.
Cuomo adds that videos can be an invaluable tool for “showing a property's different side as well as bringing a little of your own personality to life in a typically static and boring industry when it comes to traditional marketing styles.”
Five DIY home landscaping tips that add value
Anderson says the best thing about home landscaping is that you don’t have to spend tons of money to get great results. He lists down five simple things any DIY landscaper can do that can increase a property’s value.
Ascot Vale II | Photograher: Caitlin Mills
1. Fence painting
“Go to your local paint store and they will usually hire out a spray gun, which makes for a more enjoyable job but do be mindful of any overspray. We love using dark colours, as it contrasts with the foliage and allows the garden to stand out.”
Ascot Vale III | Photograher: Caitlin Mills
2. Fence extension
“No one wants to look at their neighbours – especially during isolation when everyone is at home all the time. Get to your local hardware store and throw up some fence extension. Not only does it provide but with some green foliage you will achieve a more appealing visual as well.”
Ascot Vale II | Photograher: Caitlin Mills
3. Planting climbers
“Climbers are cheap, easy, and offer amazing value. Your boston ivy, creeping fig, star jasmine, and virginian creeper all grow well in our climate and give you a full garden without taking up space.”
Ascot Valle II | Photograher: Caitlin Mills
4. Clean up
“Clean your paving and decking. A high-pressure hose can lift the space up.”
Essendon II | Photograher: Caitlin Mills
5. Fresh new setting
“With a lot of the population working from home, why not invest in a or in-built setting, so you can offer buyers an option to work from the garden? Try to commit a good quality setting, whether it be a casual lounge or formal dining. You get what you pay for and the quality will make a huge difference to your space when trying to sell.”
