With the Guelph real estate market moving to a more balanced market, it’s more important than ever to ensure you maximize the value of your property. This will ensure that buyers who are looking, decide that your house is on their shortlist. This blog focuses on landscaping ideas to help you!

In one of our previous blogs, we discuss we discuss some of the top interior renovations that are more important after the pandemic than before. But this blog focuses on the exterior, which is arguably even more important. Often buyers (often without knowing it), buyers form their opinion of the home from the walk up the driveway.

If you are aware of ‘ how to stand out from the crowd” on landscaping ideas, it can give you a lot of benefits and can increase your property value by 5% to 12%. 

Here we will discuss 8 landscaping secrets that will skyrocket your home’s resale value:

1. Painting the exterior

In addition to updating interior decorations, don’t save your best colour schemes for the inside. Apply them to the outside of your home, too! Why? Because outside of your home is equally or more important. According to research, it is easier to add value to your exterior than it is to focus on interior projects that typically cost a lot more. 

A home that has been recently painted will immediately become more appealing to purchasers.

2. Change up the house number

What? Yes! It’s something you don’t really subconsciously think about, but changing the house number on your house can have a big impact. Buyers who see a very modern, sleek house number think differently at the house at the most important time- before they even enter the home!

There are many companies out there that specialize in house numbers. As a result, modernizing your house number is a quick and easy way to take your home from the 1970’s to 2024.

3. Plant Trees

The benefits of planting a tree on your property are numerous. You will have a healthy lawn as well as an attractive property if you have some plants in it. 

You can add colour to your dull yard with mature trees whether they’re in your driveway, walkway, or backyard. They’ll also increase your home’s value and make it easier to sell it.

A mature tree not only improves a home’s landscape, but it can also be a huge selling point for potential buyers. 

Trees take between 2 and 6 years to mature, so plant them as early as possible since the additional value may depend on their size. Alternatively, recommend that your customers purchase mature trees from the local nursery.

4. Replacing Garage Door

It may not appear as landscaping ideas, but modifying or updating your garage door can have a big impact. Many homes even have double car garages, making the garage an even bigger visual statement from the curb.

It might not seem as important as the others mentioned in this list, but the garage is a part you must focus on while improving your landscape. It is a very important element and raises the curb appeal of your home in general.

Investing in a brand-new garage door is a quick and easy way to raise both the curb appeal and value of your property. If you can’t afford to replace the garage door, consider having it painted a modern colour.

Often times the entire door doesnt need to be changed. Since most garage doors roll open, the door is actually in sections. These sections can be replaced individually or even in totality.

5. Landscape Lighting

Attractive landscape lighting not only improves security surrounding your home, but it also boosts the value of your property. It is an excellent method to highlight the greatest aspects of your outside space while also increasing the safety of your property. 

LED lighting has piqued the interest of many prospective buyers. Consider utilizing illumination to draw attention to trees, walkways, and outdoor dining spaces.

6. Upgrading Front Yard

Since the pandemic, buyers have been more critical when conducting their online property search. Upgrading your front yard can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home. Start by defining your style and creating a plan. Focus on landscaping ideas, such as choosing plants that are appropriate for your climate and soil conditions, and adding a mix of colors and textures for visual interest.

Consider adding outdoor lighting to enhance the look of your landscaping and make your home more inviting at night. Other upgrades could include adding outdoor seating, a path to your front door, or a water feature.

Don’t forget to keep up with regular maintenance like mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and removing weeds. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a front yard that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood.

7. Increase Privacy

If your property can ensure security for the potential buyers then it can be an important selling factor. All of us want proper security while buying a home. This includes security cameras and proper fencing around the exterior.

Using potted plants strategically arranged around the deck or terrace is one technique to increase privacy in your outdoor environment. You can also hang outdoor curtains to offer a beautiful element as well as privacy.

8. Fixing or replacing the roof

There are a few different reasons why you’d repair a roof, but the main one is because it’s leaking. Obviously, if it’s leaking you need to address this!

However, if your roof is still doing its job of keeping you dry but looks bad from the curb or in photos, buyers will notice. Buyers tend to add up expenses when touring homes, so if they think you need a new roof they’ll factor that into their offer price.

Just note that if you live in a townhouse, you may need to seek HOA approval before changing a roof.

A new asphalt shingle room varies in price, but you’re looking at $5000- $15,000 depending on the pitch and materials used.

In conclusion

Exterior updates and landscaping ideas are important and can increase the value of your home when it comes time to sell. If you research and act accordingly you don’t have to spend a lot of money or spend a lot of time on it. 

With the right design and plants, you can transform your ordinary outdoor space into an extraordinary oasis and attract potential buyers. 

Have questions? Get in touch with Beth and Ryan Waller, Guelph real estate agents