If you’ve ever applied for a mortgage or refinanced an existing one you know that a detailed appraisal survey is an important step in the loan process. Having done this myself a few years ago I was surprised to read in our appraisal, “extensive landscaping increases the home value by $10,000 to $20,000.” I love to garden but I never thought it would have that type of impact on the value of my home. After doing a little research I found that this is not a recent development.

There are studies dating back to the 1980’s that indicate that an attractive landscape can provide more than just curb appeal or assistance in selling a home. A study by the Society of Real Estate Appraisers showed that a well maintained landscape can increase home values by 10% or more and it continues to increase the value over time as the landscape matures. Unlike tastes in interior furnishings which often change over time a beautifully maintained garden never seems to go out of style!

That being said there are some gardening trends that should be considered if you are looking at landscaping as an investment in your home value. For example, water conservation has become more and more of a concern in the past several years. As a result, perhaps a large lawn isn’t the best investment as it can have significant irrigation requirements. Perhaps the use of groundcovers or mulched beds with a drip irrigation system is better investment ideas for your landscape. Another consideration is how much time a prospective buyer would want to spend maintaining a landscape. While many gardeners would stay outside all the time if they could there are a significant number of home buyers who may be more interested in a low maintenance garden while not sacrificing curb appeal.

There are also other ways that your garden can enhance the value of your home beyond its curb appeal. For example, plants can be used as sound barriers to lower noise levels from roads and highways. They can also be used to block less than desirable views of air conditioning and heating equipment or a fence. Energy conservation is an important issue today and plants can be used to help lower heating and air conditioning costs by shading a home or providing a wind break. In some areas of the country this could be a real selling point if the savings are significant enough.

Finally, while plants are the foundation of a landscape you shouldn’t forget other important components that can also help increase you home value. Attractive hardscaping including decks, walkways, gazebos and outdoor seating areas can also have a positive impact on home values. As you can see the value of your garden shouldn’t be underestimated! It makes you want to treat it with a little more respect, doesn’t it?