LOUISVILLE, Ky. — First impressions are everything, and that starts at the curb.
As the ground thaws and the real estate market heats up, the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of backyards, public parks, school yards and other green spaces, urges homeowners to “green up” their property to maximize resale value.
“Your yard is no longer just a pretty face. It’s meaningful,” Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, said in a press release. “Home buyers are looking for a well-maintained outdoor space that’s purposeful, whether that’s for kids’ play space, entertaining or other uses. Your landscape significantly impacts a buyer’s perception.”
The financial incentive is clear. Recent real estate data shows that high curb appeal can increase a home’s value by an average of 7%, while sophisticated landscaping can boost that premium to as much as 15-20%. In some markets, sellers see more than a 200% return on investment just due to basic lawn maintenance, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to drive up a final sale price, according to the release.
To help homeowners win over buyers, the TurfMutt Foundation shares these important tips:
— Think like a buyer: Step across the street and look at your home with fresh eyes. Do you see an inviting yard, or one that comes with a big “to-do” list? Be honest with yourself, make a list of things that need attention, then make a plan and get to work.
— Clean up winter debris: Don’t underestimate the value of a simple yard clean-up. Removing dead limbs and clearing out matted leaves is the fastest way to show potential buyers your home has been well-maintained.
— Care for the yard: A freshly mowed lawn, neatly trimmed edges and pruned bushes act as a frame for your home, making the entire property look more inviting to potential buyers.
— Add fresh mulch: A fresh layer of mulch around trees and in flower beds is a low-cost face lift for your yard. It suppresses weeds and provides a finish that pops in listing photos.
— Create a vision: Show buyers how they can use the outdoor space to enhance their lifestyle. Set an outdoor dining table, string lights under a shade tree or set up chairs around a clean firepit.
— Plant with purpose: Plant colorful flowers using the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to decide which ones are best for your microclimate to add visual impact that also feed pollinators. If it’s too soon to add flowers to your beds, use containers to create a “move-in-ready” vibe.
“And always bear nature in mind,” Kiser said. “Know your climate zone and make sure your landscape choices are appropriate for where you live.”
For more tips about creating purposeful living landscapes and the many benefits of the green space around us, visit TurfMutt.com.