Landscaping is not at the top of everyone’s list when it comes to remodeling their home for profit ahead of a sale.
Yet, a beautiful garden has a huge impact, especially if you target young families or own a smaller property that will attract owners who like to spend leisure time in a peaceful backyard.
Engaging a professional landscaping company can be prohibitively expensive and may not give you a reasonable return on your investment.
But if you believe your garden will be a drag on your price, you should act. The trick is to establish a budget, formulate a vision and then make a detailed plan. You’ll find plenty of inspiration on the web, including sites such as Pinterest and Instagram.
Don’t throw too many eggs into this omelette because you’re not staying around long enough to enjoy the benefits. Keep your budget tight and focus on features that will deliver the most significant visual impact.
Here are a few ideas I’ve seen locally that make a garden memorable. I hope you find them helpful. And remember, if you’re going to dig, check first with local authorities that you’re not going to put a shovel through a water pipe, gas line or internet connection.
In the meantime, if I can help you sell your property or find your next dream home, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Raised garden beds
These are especially popular with young families and downsizers. The beds give your garden definition and are easy to look after. Higher beds stop grass runners entering and becoming weeds. Some buyers don’t want to spend their leisure time gardening, so this low-maintenance feature is ideal.
A shed
A simple addition that will take no time to erect but make an incredible difference. You’ll be able to store your tools and garden equipment easily, making your outdoor area neat and tidy. Buyers love storage solutions, so a shed ticks this box.
New decking
If your current decking is in disrepair, we’d always recommend you fix the problems and re-stain the wood. A deck adds to the living space and is highly regarded by prospective buyers, many of whom value outdoor entertaining and relaxation.
Retaining walls
Retaining walls can be a more ambitious project as they require proper drainage or they’ll crack, split and collapse. However, they add depth to a garden and allow you to create individual spaces, such as an outdoor dining, play space or a tranquil meditation area.
Pavers
Another strategy for a low-maintenance garden is to lay pavers and create an area where you can entertain or sit and enjoy the garden. If you have to sacrifice a grass area, bear in mind young parents value a lawn for the kids. Pavers are popular with downsizers because they’re safer to walk on than grass and with young professionals as they require less maintenance.
Fresh fencing
If your fences are weather-beaten or missing palings, it’s a good idea to replace them. Otherwise, your garden will look shabby no matter how else you might improve it. Talk to your neighbors – they may be willing to share the cost, or provide access to ensure the job can be done quickly and with minimal fuss.