Maybe one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but whether we like to or not, a good first impression is a must if you are trying to attract buyers when listing our property on the market.
There is no doubt that potential buyers find beautiful landscaping to be very desirable. While real estate brokers’ opinions are sometimes divided on how worthwhile this investment is, they all agree that that first look is critical for what comes next. Without clashing with the surrounding houses in the neighbourhood or going overboard, the landscaping must stand out by its good taste and distinctiveness.
Maintenance
One of the first things a buyer will consider when looking over the details of the landscaping will be how much time it will require to maintain. On the one hand, if the new owners have green thumbs and are obviously avid gardeners, a property worthy of a horticultural magazine will be just their cup of tea. On the other, if just weeding is a burden, these potential buyers should probably keep looking.
It is advantageous to invest a reasonable amount in your landscaping to increase your chance of piquing buyers’ interest. This investment may increase your property’s resale value by between 15% to 20% but does not guarantee a 100% return. Real estate brokers also concur that recently renovated kitchens and bathrooms, and new windows, roofing or exterior siding are very popular among buyers.
Often, only a few additions will improve the look of your yard: a newly sewn lawn or newly laid sod to replace tired grass, a hedge or high-quality fence, mature trees, plants, flower beds, or flower containers placed here and there. Furthermore, well maintained paving stones or patio will create a welcoming atmosphere and personalize your outdoor space.
The Pool
People have a lot of questions about whether installing a pool is worth it or not. If the expense is made for the right reasons (a young family will get lots of use out of it from spring to the end of summer), it is justified. However, it is not advisable to have a pool installed just to increase a home’s value. At a push, an above-ground pool can eventually be taken down and the area recovered with grass if the future owners are completely uninterested in keeping it. An in-ground pool is a whole other story: the pipes, paving and fence represent a major expense at purchase, not to mention the hassle of a construction site. Few potential buyers will consider spending such a large amount of money to get rid of an in-ground pool. Think it over.
The Front Door
Landscaping is not limited to plants and garden furniture; the paving leading to the garage and the path up to the house are likewise of considerable importance. If your front entrance area’s time has come – and gone – you will have to look at renovating. Here again, all you need do is decide which material – asphalt, interlocking paving stones or gravel – is the most appropriate for your budget and your neighbourhood.
Would you like to revamp the outside of your property to make it more attractive to potential buyers? Before embarking on major outdoor construction work, discuss your questions and project ideas with an industry professional. In this way, you will avoid wasting both time and money!