The Boston Globe published an article June 22, 2008 discussing whether spectacular landscaping and gardens add to a home's value.
The handful of real estate agents surveyed for the article seemed to agree that landscaping added to curb appeal, but didn't necessarily add to the value of a home. I tend to agree, but I think there is an important distinction between trees, shrubs and flowers and "hardscapes," such as stone walls and patios.
Many of my clients feel overwhelmed when they see extensive gardens and think about the prospect of maintaining an array of flowers, bushes and trees. For some home buyers, lush gardens are a turn off.
On the other hand, I always point of to my clients, especially first-time buyers, that having a stone wall, walkway or patio installed is quite expensive, and such work should be considered in the value of a home.
"The main selling season for real estate happily corresponds to the first big bloom of the year for gardeners. Yet despite the visual beauty and peaceful retreat that a garden can offer - often much more so than the inside of a house - they don't register much as an asset when it comes to selling a home."
Great point! Curb appeal and personal enjoyment don't always translate to more money.
Posted by: Colorado Springs | July 06, 2008 at 11:14 PM