The bee floated amongst the flowers, hovering and bouncing between the blooms, landing and lingering upon only the most appealing. He made several passes, returning to some, while ignoring others. He seemed discerning in his quest, much like today’s home buyer.
Landscaping, or the lack thereof, can help or hurt the value of a home. In fact, studies have shown that professionally landscaped homes sell quicker, and often for more money (an average of 14% higher).
Curb Appeal
Most people are initially drawn to the exterior of the home, and its general outward appearance. Professionally landscaped yards, in addition to their beauty and appeal, offer the potential home buyer a glimpse into the possibilities. Even if perhaps the color palette or plant choices aren’t their exact cup of tea, they can envision adding their own touches, and making it their own. Additionally, landscapes can help further complement the style of a home, giving it added personality (i.e. Italian Villa, Irish Cottage, Lakehouse, etc.).
Overall Impression
In addition to the landscape’s aesthetic appeal, professionally landscapes yards and well-maintained lawns give the buyer the sense that the home has been lovingly cared for and maintained. This is an incredibly powerful and valuable message. Landscaping can also help accent certain areas of the home, soften edges, or help cover unsightly areas or views. It can also help make the house stand out from others, further maintaining the buyer’s interest, so it is not easily forgotten.
Energy Efficient/Eco Friendly
Utilities are no joke, and with rising inflation can sway a buyer’s budget. Well sited trees and shrubs can provide shade and wind breaks to mitigate energy costs. Well-maintained lawns can also help reduce energy costs while producing oxygen, capturing rainfall, and assisting with soil erosion, etc. Native plants can also be used, which generally require little maintenance, or supplemental watering and chemical intervention.
Simply put, professionally landscaped yards and healthy, well-maintained lawns add considerable value to a home, and have been proven to sell quicker. Thinking of selling or enhancing your home? Reach out to Sweeney’s today, and we’ll help you develop a plan within your budget to make your home more valuable, sustainable, and beautiful! We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!
Sweeney’s: A Plant Based Company
Plant of the Week
Meadowsweet
Deciduous shrub produces cone shaped clusters of delicate, white flowers June – September atop upright stems. Prefers full sun, and moist soil. Grows 3-4′ tall and 4-6′ wide. Attracts wildlife, butterflies, and pollinators. Excellent for naturalizing, and creating a hedge.
“O blessèd Home!…
Thy charms, like ivy, twine around the heart…”
~Henry Heavisides
Best wishes,
Kim Sweeney
