Don't waste money: landscaping projects that don't boost home value

Homeowners often pour significant sums into enhancing their properties, but not all landscaping investments translate to a return. Real estate professionals are sounding the alarm on several projects that could actually detract from a Home's value and buyer appeal.

High-maintenance gardens: a burden, not a benefit

According to Jolynn Tarantino, a real estate agent at ReeceNichols Real Estate, high-maintenance gardens are frequently on her list of landscaping projects to avoid. While meticulously crafted landscapes can be visually stunning, the upkeep can be a major deterrent for potential buyers.

“I’ve seen properties with incredibly beautiful yards, clearly the result of skilled labor,” Tarantino explains. “But it can be intimidating for someone else to take on that level of care.”

Real estate investor Andy Saintilus echoes this sentiment, stating that high-maintenance landscaping rarely provides a worthwhile return on investment. Elaborate flower beds, rare plants, and intricate designs, while aesthetically pleasing, can become a liability if they demand constant attention.

The key is to prioritize landscaping that is easy to maintain and maintains its appeal year-round without demanding excessive time or resources. Think simple, elegant, and durable—not fussy.

Unusual features: oddities that undermine value

Big, unusual, and out-of-place features can be a significant turnoff for prospective buyers. Giant fountains and koi ponds, while potentially impressive, often represent a burden rather than an asset.

Tarantino highlights this issue, noting that a buyer may appreciate the investment made in a koi pond, but lacks the interest or desire to maintain it. These features can become costly liabilities, potentially leading to lower offers.

Conversely, an abundance of hardscaping – patios, pavers, and other extensive structures – can reduce usable yard space. It's a delicate balance to strike between functionality and open area. A yard bereft of any outdoor living space is just as undesirable.

Above-ground pools: a resale risk

Above-ground pools offer a quick and relatively inexpensive way to add a recreational element to a property. However, they typically have low resale value and are often viewed as a liability by buyers.

While installation costs range from $400 to $4,000, significantly less than a concrete pool’s $50,000 to $120,000 price tag, the return on investment is questionable. Pools in less-than-ideal condition are a definite red flag.

Personalized projects: taste that doesn't translate

Landscaping that reflects a homeowner’s highly personal taste can often alienate potential buyers. Features like horse statues or exotic, non-native plants may be visually appealing to the owner, but fail to resonate with the average buyer and can be costly to remove.

Saintilus emphasizes the importance of timeless design, suggesting that landscaping should stand the test of time. He points out that unique features, while adding character to the homeowner, may not increase the property’s value. A property’s appeal hinges on broad appeal, not idiosyncratic preferences.

Ultimately, thoughtful landscaping enhances a Home’s value. But excessive customization and impractical features can backfire, leaving homeowners with a costly investment that doesn’t deliver on its promise.