The bee floated amongst the flowers, hovering and bouncing between the blooms, landing and lingering upon only the most appealing.  He made several passes, returning to some, while ignoring others.  He seemed discerning in his quest, much like today’s home buyer.

Landscaping, or the lack thereof, can help or hurt the sale of a home.  In fact, studies have shown that professionally landscaped homes sell quicker, and often for more money.

Curb Appeal

Most people are initially drawn to the exterior of the home, and its general outward appearance.  Professionally landscaped yards, in addition to their beauty and appeal, offer the potential home buyer a glimpse into the possibilities. Even if perhaps the color palette or plant choices aren’t  their exact cup of tea, they can envision adding their own touches, and making it their own.  Additionally, landscapes can help further complement the style of a home, giving it added personality (i.e. Italian Villa, Irish Cottage, Lakehouse, etc.).

First Impressions

In addition to the landscape’s aesthetic appeal, professionally landscapes yards and well-maintained lawns give the buyer the sense that the home has been lovingly cared for and maintained.   This is an incredibly powerful and valuable message.  Landscaping can also help accent certain areas of the home, soften edges, or help cover unsightly areas or views.  It can also help make the house stand out from others, further maintaining the buyer’s interest, so it is not easily forgotten.

Energy Efficient/Eco Friendly

Utilities are no joke, and can sway a buyer’s budget.  Well sited trees and shrubs can provide shade and wind breaks to mitigate energy costs.  Well-maintained lawns can also help reduce energy costs while producing oxygen, capturing rainfall, and assisting with soil erosion, etc. Native plants can also be used, which generally require little maintenance, or supplemental watering and chemical intervention.

Simply put, professionally landscaped yards and healthy, well-maintained lawns add considerable value to a home, and have been proven to sell quicker.  Thinking of selling?  Reach out to Sweeney’s today, and we’ll help you develop a plan within your budget to make your dreams come true.

Plant of the Week

Purple Prairie Clover

Tiny purple flowers in cone-like heads bloom atop wiry stems June – August.  Prefers full sun and dry soil.  Grows 24-36″ tall and 8-12″ wide.  Provides the soil with beneficial nitrogen.  Attracts bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.  Native.

“Landscape is a piece that is emotional and psychological.”

-Jim Hodges

Well wishes,

Kim Sweeney