Thoughtful landscaping can make a strong first impression and add real resale value. According to Opendoor, well-executed landscaping can increase a home’s sale price by about 5 to 15 percent, while basic curb appeal improvements like lawn care and upkeep often deliver strong ROI. For Bay Area homeowners, even a modest increase can make a meaningful difference at resale.

However, not all landscaping projects can deliver on those promises. Some add more value than others. Here are some of the ways in which the quality of your landscape project can impact your Bay Area home’s value and appeal.

Landscaping: Defined

First off, what is landscaping exactly? This refers to the exterior area around a home, incorporating both overall design and individual elements. Softscaping is all about living things (flowers, plants, trees, gardens, grass, etc.). Hardscaping refers to anything that is not alive, such as ornamental or architectural features (retaining walls, steps, paved paths, firepits, and fountains).

Landscaping has certainly changed over the years, bringing with it many trends and popular features designed to embrace not just landscaping but the concept of outdoor living. Such projects may include outdoor kitchens, multiple-level decks and patios, fireplaces or fire features, wet bars, dining areas, and gazebos or pergolas.

But just because a project’s popularity may appeal to the homeowner, doesn’t mean it will appeal to potential home buyers down the road. For instance, not everyone cares for pergolas, or water fountains that look like too much maintenance to be worthwhile. Older homeowners may not like multiple level decks due to decreased mobility, while young homeowners may view a swimming pool as a safety hazard for their small children.

If you plan to stay in your home forever, these considerations are moot. Do what you like, how you like it. But overall, the most financially rewarding landscaping projects will achieve two things: they will expand your living space and they will add beauty to your property.

Landscaping Projects That Pack a Punch

One big element of curb appeal to consider is the power of a well-maintained lawn, specifically in the front yard. At the very least, you should keep the lawn mowed, garden weeded, and trees pruned. The maintenance isn’t all that much, but if you’re going for the lowest maintenance possible with the most beautiful effect, consider investing in a turf lawn.

Not only does artificial turf look great, it can reduce runoff, prevent erosion, promote safety, cut down on noise, and regulate temperature.

Landscape Lighting

Who says the party has to end when the sun goes down? Extend your enjoyment of the outdoors with strategically-placed landscape lighting. Sure, it offers some nice aesthetics alone, but it also augments safety and security. In addition, a well-lit property is less appealing to potential intruders because it removes the shady hiding spots that can shield suspicious activity.

Decking

The material you choose will affect your return on investment. According to the Cost vs. Value Report for 2024, wooden decks have an average job cost of $17,000 with a recouped cost of 83 percent; a composite deck project will cost you about $24,000, with a recouped cost of 68 percent. But aside from actual value added, decks bring many other benefits to your yard, mainly increased living and entertaining space.

Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Especially in the Bay Area, there has been a surge in xeriscaping – or drought-tolerant yards. This type of landscape doesn’t need an irrigation system, which reduces money spent on water bill. Plus, it doesn’t require as much maintenance. Not only is drought-friendly landscaping cost-effective, it’s a sustainable way to add greenery to your home. It’s best to stick to native plants known for adapting well to the environment while requiring less maintenance such as fertilizer and pest control.

Other Desirable Elements

Adding value to your Bay Area home through landscaping doesn’t have to be a major hassle or cost an arm and a leg. Try these small yet powerful ideas to add that wow factor:

  • Tidy garden
  • Landscaped pathway
  • Fresh mulch
  • Garden beds and container plants
  • Outdoor water features
  • Privacy landscaping (fortress-style hedges, barrier shrubs, etc.)

Schedule a Landscaping Consultation With Asher Brothers Construction

Here at Asher Brothers Construction, we specialize in custom outdoor kitchens, elegant patios, and tranquil landscapes to bring your dream backyard to life. Schedule your consultation today or give us a call at (925) 406-4776