A recently released study shows that there is a positive link between the quality of a home’s landscaping and the amount that the homeowners receive for the property at the time of sale. The Horticultural Research Institute funded the study that was conducted by a professor at Clemson University.
By analyzing more than 200 home sales in a medium-sized South Carolina real estate market, the research found that properties with landscapes judged to be “excellent” by a landscape professional realized a sale price six to seven percent higher than equivalent properties with landscapes judged to be “good.” Landscapes rated as “good” brought four to five percent more at sale than those found to be “average.”
The study concluded that the individual benefits of improved landscaping—such as increased aesthetics, buffers from noise and views, climate control through shade and windbreaks—did not increase the value of property directly. Instead, the benefits were realized at a later time when the property was sold. Just like other home improvements such as adding air conditioning or an additional bathroom, homeowners who enhance the landscaping of their properties can immediately enjoy the advantages of the improvement and can later expect to recoup a large percentage of the investment through an increased sale price.
The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association is the state’s largest “green industry” trade association with more than 1,000 member businesses including nurseries, garden centers, landscape designers and contractors, irrigation contractors, tree care specialists, and lawn and landscape management professionals.
For a free copy of the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association’s “Planting and Care Guide,” and the “Consumer Directory to MNLA Members,” call (651) 633-4987. The “Consumer Directory” is also available on-line by visiting the MNLA website found on the information page.
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