There’s no impression like a first impression, which is why it’s important to keep up with your outdoor space as much as your indoor space. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money on a professional landscaper. In fact, there are plenty of DIY projects you can easily tackle on a Saturday afternoon. Check out these simple gardening tips that can enhance your property value.
#1. Lay Fresh Mulch
Easily one of the cheapest and fastest garden makeovers, a fresh layer of mulch makes any space look professionally landscaped. Just fill up the back of your car with some bags of mulch from the store and start raking it out once you get home. Place it around bushes, centerpiece trees and flower beds. While mulch comes in a variety of colors these days, stick with a neutral brown so it doesn’t detract attention from the rest of your property. In less than two hours, you’ll have clean beds that truly pop against the rest of your lawn.
#2. Clear the Windows
When getting your house ready for the market, be sure to keep those bushes trimmed nicely. For starters, it gives your yard a manicured appearance. Additionally, it keeps your windows open, so the light inside doesn’t get obstructed. This allows the interior of your home to be as bright as possible, which always gives a strong impression. In fact, a bright interior is one of the most important features a home can have. Two perks for the price of one!
#3. Edge Paths
To really make your yard look tidy, edge around your paths and landscaped beds, especially if you don’t have hardscaped edging, such as lawn timbers or bricks. Simply use an edging shovel and dig your way around the lines of your paths and beds. The dirt will look freshly upturned, giving the appearance of clean borders throughout your yard.
#4. Use Planters on Your Doorstep
Create a welcoming entrance for any buyer by adding a planter with colorful annuals right outside your door. The pop of color draws attention to the entryway and makes a potential buyer intrigued about what’s inside. Opt for a terra cotta or ceramic pot over a plastic one, and choose flower colors that complement the color of your home and front door. When in doubt, some white pansies complement any exterior, hold up well in just about any weather and brighten up any space.
#5. Add Window Boxes
To maximize your garden space, consider adding some window boxes. Sound like a lot of work? Not at all. You can purchase pre-made window boxes or for the woodworking enthusiast, you can easily find plans online for a simple DIY version. Fill them with a variety of flowers and greenery at differing heights to maximize their visual interest. This is a relatively easy step to take that instantly makes your home stand out from the pack.
In case you were on the fence as to whether or not your outdoor space plays an important role when it comes to property value, the verdict is in. Not only does your yard and home exterior reflect how well you care for the rest of your house, but many of these elements can actually add to the value of the home.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Altisource Online Auction, Inc., Altisource® or any Altisource affiliate. The foregoing content is not intended to constitute, and in fact does not constitute, financial, investment, tax or legal advice by the author, Altisource Online Auction, Inc., Altisource or any Altisource affiliate.
