Does Landscaping Increase Home Value? Expert Tips for Homeowners

When people think about home improvement projects, kitchens and bathrooms usually come first. But outdoor spaces matter just as much. A neat front yard, the right plants, or even a simple patio can set the tone for the entire property.

So, does landscaping increase home value? According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), quality landscape design can raise a home’s value by 15–20%. More importantly, curb appeal makes a strong first impression. Buyers notice a manicured lawn, colorful flowers, or inviting walkways long before they step through the front door.

In this guide, we’ll walk through landscaping ideas that add value, highlight projects with the best return, and share tips for creating an outdoor space that boosts both daily living and resale value.

 

Why Landscaping Affects Your Home Value

First impressions matter. A tidy front yard with a green lawn, healthy plants, and a welcoming front door can change how buyers see your property before they even walk inside.

A study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that 71% of homebuyers consider curb appeal when deciding on a house. That means the right landscaping projects, from a fresh garden bed to large trees that provide shade, can directly boost your home’s value.

Simple updates like edging a yard, adding mulch, or using the best hardscaping materials around the foundation such as pavers or river rock bring both beauty and practicality.

 

Landscaping Ideas That Add Value

Not all landscaping projects are created equal. Some upgrades are simple but make a big impact, while others add long-term function and comfort to your outdoor space. Here are some practical upgrades that can raise curb appeal and make your property more appealing to buyers.

A Neat Lawn Sets the Tone

One of the easiest ways to boost home value is by starting with the lawn. A green, manicured yard makes the whole property feel cared for and gives buyers confidence that the home is in good shape.

Fresh grass, tidy garden beds, and even drought tolerant native plants can keep your yard looking healthy while reducing upkeep. Homeowners in Colorado often choose bluegrass sod for a durable lawn, since it creates a consistent green cover that thrives through changing seasons.

Adding mulch, trimming edges, and planting the right mix of flowers or shrubs can turn a plain front yard into a welcoming outdoor space that buyers notice right away.

Welcoming Paths and Walkways

Buyers notice how they enter a home, so walkways play a bigger role in curb appeal than many realize. Clean, even paths make the front yard feel more inviting and give a sense of order.

Upgrading old concrete with brick pavers or adding metal edging for neat borders can make a walkway look polished without being costly. Gravel or stone also adds natural texture while keeping the path functional.

When paired with a well-kept lawn and some greenery, these small hardscaping projects can create a smooth transition from the street to the front door, boosting both charm and resale value.

Trees That Add Shade and Privacy

Adding trees is one of the most valuable long-term landscaping projects a homeowner can invest in. Mature trees bring shade, lower cooling costs in summer, and add a sense of privacy that many buyers look for.

Large trees also create visual interest in outdoor spaces and frame the property, making the house look more established. Choosing the right plants matters too. Native or drought tolerant varieties thrive with less maintenance and keep yards looking healthy year after year.

Beyond comfort, shade trees are often linked to higher resale value since they combine beauty with function.

Lighting That Highlights Your Yard

The right lighting can change how your property looks after the sun goes down. Well-placed fixtures bring out the best parts of your landscape design, from a garden bed near the front door to pathways leading to outdoor spaces.

Beyond adding beauty, lighting improves safety and makes patios, walkways, and backyards usable at night. It also adds a sense of security, which is another detail buyers notice when thinking about resale value. A simple setup of LED fixtures or spotlights can highlight trees, fences, or stone walls while keeping the yard welcoming.

Outdoor Living with Patios and Decks

Buyers love outdoor areas that feel like an extension of the home. Adding a patio, deck, or even a pergola can create functional space for entertaining, dining, or relaxing. These projects are some of the most attractive home improvement projects because they increase both enjoyment and resale value.

Stone patios and pergolas also bring long-lasting style while being low maintenance. Pair them with greenery or a small fire pit to make the backyard even more inviting. For homeowners looking to sell, outdoor kitchens are another great option since they give buyers the sense of extra living space without major indoor renovations.

 

Landscaping Projects with Strong ROI

Below is a quick look at the types of projects that can boost home value the most.

*Based on studies from NAR, Angi, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

 

Landscaping Projects That Decrease Home Value

Some upgrades look good on paper but can backfire when it’s time to sell. Here are a few landscaping choices that might lower your home’s resale value instead of raising it:

• Artificial grass. While it seems low-maintenance, many buyers prefer the look and feel of natural grass. Artificial turf can fade over time and may leave future owners thinking about replacement. Choosing bluegrass sod or other natural options usually creates stronger curb appeal.

• Overly personal designs. Niche features or mismatched styles can make outdoor areas feel cluttered. Buyers want to picture themselves in the space, so sticking to a balanced landscape design is usually a safer bet.

• Short-lived plants. Seasonal flowers add color for a few months but can leave garden beds bare the rest of the year. Perennials, shrubs, or native plants are a better choice since they thrive longer and appeal to buyers looking for low maintenance.

• Too much concrete. While patios and walkways are valuable, covering most of the yard in concrete can make the property feel stark and unwelcoming. Mixing in greenery, mulch, or gravel softens the space.

• High-maintenance water features. Ponds or fountains may look pretty, but many buyers see them as extra work. Low-maintenance landscaping ideas like stone accents, retaining walls, or a small fire pit often add more lasting value.

 

Practical Tips Before Starting Any Landscaping Project

Before jumping into big landscaping projects, it’s important to plan ahead. A yard that looks good and functions well comes from choosing the right materials and designs from the start.

• Match your home’s style. A modern house looks best with clean lines, pavers, and metal edging, while a cottage-style property may fit better with garden beds, stone walls, and colorful flowers.

• Think low maintenance. Buyers often prefer outdoor spaces that are easy to manage. Using mulch, ground cover, or drought-tolerant native plants keeps your yard attractive without constant upkeep.

• Plan for function. Landscaping should create usable outdoor areas. A patio, fire pit, or pergola can turn a plain backyard into a space for entertaining or relaxing.

• Choose quality materials. Strong materials like gravel, pavers, and brick pavers make projects last longer and improve curb appeal. If you are sourcing supplies, check out trusted options for wholesale landscape supply to make sure your upgrades add lasting value.

 

Bring Lasting Value to Your Colorado Home

Landscaping projects are more than just home improvement. They can boost curb appeal, make your outdoor spaces more functional, and increase resale value. Simple upgrades like planting shade trees, adding a patio, or maintaining a healthy lawn go a long way.

The key is to plan wisely, choose the right plants and materials, and stick to upgrades that balance beauty with low maintenance. Not every project adds value, so focus on the ones that appeal to most buyers.

If you’re ready to start, Rivendell Distribution has the landscaping and hardscaping materials you need. Visit us at 3961 County Road 114 in Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 or shop online. We provide delivery across the region.

 

FAQs About Landscaping and Home Value

What landscaping adds the most value?

Projects that boost curb appeal and create functional outdoor spaces usually add the most value. A healthy lawn, shade trees, patios, and walkways are among the top upgrades. Hardscaping elements like retaining walls, pavers, and fire pits also help increase resale value by making the yard more usable. When adding a patio, you might want to explore durable patio materials to get the best return over time.

What materials are used for landscaping?

Common landscaping materials include mulch, gravel, stone, pavers, river rock, and metal edging. Plants, grass, and trees are paired with these materials to balance beauty and function. If you’re starting a project, learn the essential landscaping materials to use so you can plan more effectively.

What is the best landscaping material around a house?

Gravel, mulch, and stone are some of the best choices around the foundation of a house because they improve drainage and protect against soil erosion. These materials also add visual interest while keeping maintenance low. For ideas, you can also check our blog on  what to put around the foundation of a house.

What is the cheapest material for landscaping?

Gravel and mulch are usually the most affordable landscaping materials. Both are versatile, easy to install, and great for covering large areas without high costs. They can also be blended with plants or edging to create a finished look that still fits your budget.

Should I hire a professional or do DIY landscaping?

It depends on the project. Simple tasks like mulching, planting, or refreshing garden beds are great DIY options. For larger projects like retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, or complex paver patios, hiring a professional ensures quality and helps protect your investment.