Landscaping is Your Home's First Impresssion

Everyone knows that you only have one chance to make a first impression and this certainly holds true for your home when placing it on the market. Homeowners often spend time and money renovating outdated bathrooms and kitchens, painting walls and reorganizing living area. These are all great ways to sell your home, but you have to get potential buyers in the door before they can appreciate your efforts. All too often a home's first impression -- it's landscaping -- is overlooked, which in turn, can cause many potential buyers to overlook your home. With the latest home trend focused on outdoor living, landscaping is an essential part of what today's buyers are looking for in a home.

The decision to improve your landscaping can be profitable and has the potential to increase your home's value by several thousand dollars. A Clemson University study conducted in Greenville, S.C. revealed that houses with appealing landscaping sold for 14% to 17% percent higher than those with poor landscaping. Popular Home and Garden Television (HGTV) programs such as "Curb Appeal" and "Design to Sell" feature real estate experts who voice the importance of an attractive yard.

Enhancing your landscaping may seem like an expensive and daunting task, but some simple changes combined with a little elbow grease can go a long way. Start by cleaning your outdoor spaces by pressure washing sidewalks and siding, raking leaves, cleaning out gutters and edging the lawn and planting beds. Once you've tidied the yard, step back and look at your house from a buyer's point of view. Take note of the things that you think enhance your home's aesthetics and what needs to be changed. Remove items that block important architectural elements.

To design a beautiful landscape, you don't have to hire an expert whose fee could diminish your profits. Ask your real estate agent what alterations they would recommend to improve the look of your home. Research gardening magazines and online sources for ideas on what would enhance your landscaping. Talk to expert green thumbs at your local lawn and garden center and get their suggestions. Purchase shrubs and mature colorful flowers to plant in areas that need attention. Don't buy trees or plant bulbs that mature slowly and won't immediately improve the look of your home. Another tip is to place lighting on walkways and entry points of the home so evening visitors are drawn to your home.

If you're willing to jump in and get your hands dirty, even a small landscaping budget can substantially add to the value and appeal of your home. You may discover your new landscaping is something you wish you'd done sooner.