6 Outdoor Features that Increase Your Home Value

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The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) claims professional landscaping can add to a home’s price tag “15 percent to 20 percent more at the time of resale”.   In recent years, indoor space takes a back seat to outdoor space.  It’s the outdoor space that visitors see first as well as where you spend your time entertaining almost 6 months of the year in the Pottstown, Chester Springs, Wayne and surrounding areas.

The same organization, American Society of Landscape feels that since landscaping adds value to appraisals, they recommend to invest about 8-10 percent of your home’s value in landscaping which includes soft and hardscaping.

Although there are many opportunities to enhance your landscape, there are a few more financially rewarding ones such as expanding the outdoor living space and adding low-maintenance features.

Outdoor Design Features that Add Value


Flagstone patio in Pottstown, PA

PatioPatios installed with seating areas and space to prepare and enjoy meals turns a backyard into a livable space.  Well-designed patios turn your backyard into an extension of your home.  Read  How to Plan for the Perfect Patio Design for your Family and 6 Stunning Patio Designs

Circular landing connects two walkways together in Spring City, PA

Walkways.  A paved walkway is an inviting way to draw guests to the front door or backyard plus walkways boost a home’s curb appeal.   There are so many materials to consider when building a walkway, including pavers, natural stone, and timeless bluestone and flagstone slabs. Learn more about Walkway Design and Installation Tips.

Lighting illuminating home and landscaping.

Lighting.   Lighting accentuates your landscaping and illuminates your home.  Pathways, walkways and stairs that are illuminated all help guests navigate more easily.  Extending the use of your yard when it gets dark is a real advantage.  According to Zillow, including ‘outdoor lighting’ in a listing description contributed to homes selling 3.1 days faster and for l.6 percent more.

Trees.  A mature tree in your yard can contribute greatly to a home’s value.  Even a few smaller ones that have promise of maturity will add curb appeal and value.   According to Money, “numerous studies show that homes with trees have anywhere from 3.5% to 15% more value than those without.”  “If you’re selling the median-price home in the U.S. – currently $407,600 – that means anywhere from $14,000 to $61,000 more profit.”

Downingtown Fire Pit

Fire Pit.   Fire pits are one of the most requested design features by our clients.  They provide ambiance to your landscape and are ideal for social gatherings and relaxing in your backyard.   Fire pits typically yield 67% to 80% ROI based on the average cost.  Add Fire to Your Backyard Living and watch your family and friends gravitate to your new outdoor space.

Well-Maintained Lawn.    A healthy, green lawn does more than just beautify your home, it also boosts your home’s value.  The National Association of Realtors reports that lawn care services return 267% of the investment.  That’s the #1 landscaping item, yielding the most money on the investment.  The payoff is pretty significant if you regularly maintain your lawn!

Whitehouse Landscaping has the capabilities to improve your home’s landscaping and hardscaping and help you achieve your outdoor improvement goals.   We have been helping families in the Pottstown, Chester Springs, Wayne, PA and surrounding areas for over  20 years.

Landscaping is clearly an investment worth making, offering the immediate benefits for all to enjoy and long-term value to cash in on when it’s time to sell.

If you want to work with a pro on some landscape additions or renovations, request a free landscape consultation.   We look forward to hearing from you.