Landscaping is more than just a finishing touch—it’s a powerful investment strategy that can transform the look, functionality, and marketability of your home. While a freshly painted interior or updated kitchen might capture immediate interest, it’s often the outdoor environment that makes the first impression. A thoughtfully designed landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also creates outdoor spaces that extend the livability of your property, add functional value, and influence buyer perception.
Whether you’re preparing to list your home or simply want to enjoy a more inviting yard, understanding how landscaping impacts property value is essential. From basic lawn care to elaborate outdoor living features, the choices you make can significantly affect resale potential. So, how much can landscaping increase home value? That’s the central question this guide will explore—providing data-backed insights, practical tips, and localized considerations to help you make informed decisions that benefit both your lifestyle and your bottom line.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- How much landscaping can increase home value based on national data and expert insights.
- The return on investment (ROI) for common landscaping improvements, including lawn care and design projects.
- High-impact landscaping features that appeal most to homebuyers.
- The consequences of neglecting landscaping and how it can negatively affect property value.
- Regional landscaping considerations specific to Edgewater, MD, including native plants and sustainable practices.
- Professional tips for designing cohesive, low-maintenance, and visually appealing outdoor spaces.
- Why working with local landscaping companies can maximize the value and longevity of your investment
The Financial Upside of Landscaping
Investing in landscaping offers a substantial return on investment (ROI), making it one of the smartest enhancements homeowners can make. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, basic lawn care services, such as mowing, fertilizing, and weed control, can yield an impressive 217% ROI. This means homeowners often recover more than double what they spend on routine maintenance when it comes time to sell.
More ambitious projects also provide significant financial rewards. For example, according to a report by the American Society of Landscape Architects, professional landscape design and installation can raise a home’s value by 12% to 15%. In some cases, especially in desirable neighborhoods or with high-end designs, ROI can climb as high as 400%. These figures underscore the value of investing not just in basic upkeep but in comprehensive, well-planned landscaping improvements. The combination of aesthetic appeal, increased functionality, and long-term value makes landscaping a powerful asset in any homeowner’s toolkit.
Here’s the expanded version of the “Key Landscaping Projects That Add Value” section:
Key Landscaping Projects That Add Value
Thoughtful landscaping improvements can significantly increase a home’s value, especially when they combine visual appeal with functional benefits. Here are some of the top projects that yield the highest returns:
1. Lawn Maintenance
A well-kept lawn remains one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to boost curb appeal. It’s often the first thing potential buyers notice, and it sets the tone for the rest of the property. Regular maintenance—including mowing, fertilization, aeration, and weed control—ensures that grass remains vibrant and healthy. According to data from the National Association of Realtors, investing in standard lawn care can yield an ROI of up to 267%. In addition to aesthetics, a lush lawn creates a welcoming atmosphere that adds to the perceived quality of the home.
2. Tree Planting
Trees are more than just landscape anchors—they provide long-term environmental, aesthetic, and financial benefits. Strategically placed trees offer shade, which can help reduce energy bills during warmer months, and enhance privacy without the need for fencing. They also contribute to the property’s overall ambiance, softening hard edges and creating natural beauty. Research suggests that mature, healthy trees can increase a home’s value by $1,000 to $10,000 depending on their size, species, and placement. Deciduous trees planted near the south or west side of a home are particularly effective for energy savings.
3. Outdoor Living Spaces
As more homeowners prioritize time spent outdoors, spaces like patios, decks, pergolas, and fire pits have become essential. These additions not only expand usable square footage but also improve the functionality of the landscape. Well-designed outdoor areas can serve as entertainment zones, outdoor dining areas, or private retreats—features that today’s buyers highly value. According to remodeling cost and value reports, these features can increase a home’s resale value by up to 10%, depending on quality and materials. Investing in durable, low-maintenance surfaces and weather-resistant furnishings further enhances long-term appeal.
4. Sustainable Landscaping
Environmental sustainability is no longer a niche concern—it’s a growing priority for many homeowners and buyers. Sustainable landscaping involves choosing native or drought-tolerant plants, installing efficient irrigation systems, using organic mulches, and reducing the use of synthetic chemicals. Techniques like xeriscaping and the use of rain gardens also help manage stormwater and prevent erosion. These practices not only conserve natural resources but also reduce ongoing maintenance and water costs. In areas like Maryland, where weather variability and environmental conservation are top of mind, sustainable landscaping is a compelling selling point that aligns with both ecological values and practical living.
The Risks of Neglecting Landscaping
While well-executed landscaping can significantly enhance a home’s market value, neglecting outdoor spaces can have detrimental effects. Poor landscaping sends a clear signal to potential buyers about the overall upkeep of the property. According to a study published by the National Association of Realtors, homes with unattractive or poorly maintained landscaping can experience a drop in property value by as much as 10% to 30%. This decrease stems not only from diminished curb appeal but also from the perception that the home may have other underlying maintenance issues.
Neglected yards often feature overgrown shrubs, dead or patchy grass, invasive weeds, and outdated or broken fixtures. These visual cues suggest to prospective buyers that the property has not been well cared for, potentially leading them to assume additional repairs and maintenance will be required. Furthermore, unkempt outdoor areas can obscure important aspects of a home’s architecture and layout, making it more difficult for buyers to see the full potential of the property. In competitive real estate markets, these visual red flags can be the deciding factor in whether a buyer decides to schedule a viewing or pass altogether.
Why Professional Landscaping Outperforms DIY for Boosting Home Value
While do-it-yourself projects can be rewarding and cost-effective for minor upgrades, when it comes to significantly increasing home value through landscaping, hiring a professional often leads to far better results. The main difference lies in the scope, expertise, and long-term vision that professionals bring to a project.
Professional landscapers are trained not only in design principles but also in horticulture, soil science, drainage planning, and local climate considerations. They know which plants will thrive in specific environments, how to layout a yard for optimal function and aesthetics, and how to ensure everything from grading to irrigation is handled correctly. This expertise helps avoid common pitfalls of DIY landscaping, such as poor plant selection, improper drainage, or a disjointed layout that can detract from rather than enhance a home’s value.
In addition, professional landscaping companies often provide a comprehensive plan tailored to the property’s unique features and the homeowner’s goals. They can incorporate high-ROI elements like retaining walls, water features, lighting systems, and custom outdoor living areas that require advanced skills and tools beyond the average DIYer’s capability.
From a buyer’s perspective, professionally landscaped properties project a sense of quality, care, and cohesion. Real estate agents and appraisers recognize these enhancements and often factor them into higher property valuations. In contrast, DIY landscaping—especially if inconsistent or incomplete—can look amateurish and may even raise concerns about future maintenance or repair needs.
For homeowners serious about maximizing their investment, particularly in competitive markets like Maryland, professional landscaping isn’t just an aesthetic upgrade—it’s a strategic financial decision.
Value-Boosting Tips from the Pros
Professional landscapers understand that it’s not just about adding plants or features—it’s about creating a cohesive, functional, and sustainable outdoor environment that enhances your home’s value. Here are some expert-approved strategies that can make a big impact:
Design Cohesion
One of the most overlooked aspects of landscape design is how well it aligns with the home’s architectural style. A cohesive design ensures that outdoor elements feel like a natural extension of the house. For example, a modern home might benefit from clean lines, minimalist plantings, and geometric pavers, while a colonial-style home could be complemented by symmetrical hedges, brick pathways, and traditional flower beds. Matching the style and materials of your home’s exterior with your landscaping not only improves aesthetics but also enhances the perceived quality of the entire property.
Seasonal Interest
A dynamic landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, offering something new to enjoy year-round. Incorporating a variety of plants that bloom at different times—like tulips in spring, coneflowers in summer, chrysanthemums in fall, and evergreen shrubs for winter interest—ensures your yard remains vibrant and engaging regardless of the season. This layered approach adds depth and color throughout the year, which not only delights homeowners but also keeps the property looking attractive to potential buyers during every viewing window.
Lighting
Strategically placed outdoor lighting transforms your landscape into a safe, functional, and visually striking space after dark. Path lights, uplights for trees, and spotlights for architectural features can highlight key areas and create ambiance. Motion-sensor and low-voltage lighting options also improve security and energy efficiency. Effective lighting extends the usability of your yard well into the evening, whether for entertaining, dining, or simply enjoying a quiet moment outdoors. It’s a small investment with high visual and practical returns.
Irrigation Systems
Watering a lawn and garden can be time-consuming and inconsistent when done manually. An efficient irrigation system, such as a drip irrigation setup or programmable sprinkler system, ensures that every part of your landscape receives the right amount of water at the right time. These systems help conserve water, reduce monthly utility bills, and prevent over- or under-watering, which can harm plants and lead to uneven growth. In areas with watering restrictions or hot summers—like much of Maryland—an automated system is a practical upgrade that supports a healthy, low-maintenance yard.
Landscaping in Maryland: Climate-Smart Strategies for Long-Term Value
Landscaping in Maryland presents unique opportunities and challenges due to the state’s diverse geography and climate. Spanning from the Appalachian foothills to the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland encompasses a variety of microclimates, each influencing the types of plants and landscaping techniques that perform best. Generally, Maryland’s humid subtropical climate supports a wide array of plant life, but it also demands careful consideration of soil conditions, moisture levels, and seasonal weather patterns.
One of the most effective strategies for homeowners across Maryland is to incorporate native plants into their landscapes. Species like black-eyed Susans, Eastern redbuds, and river birches are not only visually striking but also well-adapted to local conditions. These plants typically require less water and fertilizer, support native wildlife, and are more resistant to local pests and diseases—making them both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Sustainability is becoming a central theme in Maryland landscaping. With increasing awareness of environmental concerns, homeowners are turning to practices such as rainwater harvesting, use of permeable hardscapes, and xeriscaping to manage water runoff and reduce maintenance needs. These features are especially valuable in urban and coastal areas where stormwater management is a priority.
For those living in more localized communities, such as Edgewater, landscaping choices often reflect both environmental stewardship and neighborhood aesthetics. Homeowners seeking expert guidance tailored to these specific needs should consider working with landscaping companies in Edgewater who understand both regional trends and community expectations.
What Buyers Look For
Today’s homebuyers are increasingly viewing outdoor spaces as extensions of the home, not just as decorative afterthoughts. In a competitive real estate market, a property’s landscaping can be a deciding factor in whether a buyer schedules a showing or moves on to the next listing. Buyers are looking for more than just curb appeal—they want outdoor areas that are both beautiful and usable.
Functional landscaping features such as patios, decks, walkways, and outdoor kitchens appeal to buyers who envision themselves entertaining, relaxing, or spending time with family in these spaces. Well-defined zones for dining, recreation, or quiet retreat add practical value and help buyers mentally map out how they would use the property.
Environmental awareness is also influencing buying decisions. Features like native plantings, low-maintenance gardens, rain gardens, and efficient irrigation systems demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. These eco-friendly elements not only reduce long-term maintenance and utility costs but also align with the values of a growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers.
Equally important is the message landscaping sends about the overall care of the property. A well-maintained yard suggests that the homeowner has taken good care of the entire home. On the flip side, overgrown shrubs, patchy lawns, or outdated hardscaping may signal neglect and raise concerns about hidden issues inside. In this way, landscaping becomes a powerful indicator of quality and pride of ownership—qualities that every buyer is looking for.
Landscaping Mistakes That Can Lower Property Value
While good landscaping can be a smart investment, poor choices or execution can have the opposite effect. Homeowners hoping to enhance their property’s worth should be aware of common pitfalls that can diminish curb appeal and even lead to higher long-term costs.
Over-Customization
What might seem like a personal paradise to you could feel like a burden to potential buyers. Highly specific landscaping elements—such as elaborate topiary designs, overly thematic décor, or obscure plant varieties—can alienate buyers who don’t share your tastes. Stick with clean, timeless designs that appeal to a broad audience.
Neglecting Maintenance
Landscaping that looks good when installed but quickly deteriorates due to lack of upkeep can become a liability. Buyers will notice overgrown plants, dead patches of grass, and malfunctioning irrigation systems, which can all signal neglect. A high-maintenance yard without a clear maintenance plan can also be a deterrent, especially for buyers who value low-effort living.
Poor Plant Placement
Planting without consideration for size, sunlight, or spacing can cause numerous problems. Shrubs too close to the foundation, trees planted under power lines, or sun-loving plants in shaded areas may lead to damage, poor growth, or extra removal costs. A thoughtful layout based on long-term growth and site conditions is essential.
Ignoring Functional Design
A beautiful yard is appealing, but not at the expense of functionality. Skimping on walkways, lighting, or defined outdoor spaces can make a yard feel incomplete. Buyers often look for areas to entertain, relax, or play—features that should be intentionally designed into the landscape plan.
Forgetting the Front Yard
Many homeowners focus their efforts on backyard retreats while overlooking the front yard, which forms the critical first impression. Sparse or unkempt front landscaping can diminish curb appeal and overshadow improvements elsewhere on the property. Balanced attention to all visible areas is key.
Avoiding these common mistakes helps ensure that landscaping efforts truly enhance your home’s value rather than detract from it. Thoughtful planning and regular care are just as important as visual beauty when it comes to making a lasting impact.
Final Thoughts
When evaluating home improvement options, few projects offer the blend of immediate appeal and long-term financial gain that landscaping does. Homeowners often ask how much landscaping can increase home value, and the answer is—it depends on the strategy behind the design. Whether it’s a well-manicured lawn, a thoughtfully placed shade tree, or a fully equipped outdoor living space, each feature plays a role in shaping buyer perceptions and adding measurable equity.
Thoughtful landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about functionality, sustainability, and how well the outdoor environment complements the home itself. The right landscape design can transform an ordinary yard into a personal retreat, a social space, or a natural extension of indoor living—all of which resonate with today’s homebuyers.
For those aiming to enjoy their property now while planning for a profitable future sale, landscaping offers one of the most reliable paths to achieving both. As this guide has shown, with the right combination of planning and professional insight, outdoor improvements can significantly elevate not just the appearance, but the value of your home.
