Those who plan to sell their homes should focus on improving their properties’ curb appeal before anything else, although it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
A survey of more than 26,000 homeowners showed that most people spend an average of $1,000 for lawn care and improvement. If you live in Utah, the cost of a custom landscape design in Salt Lake City will vary based on the size of your front yard. You could save money by doing some work on your own, such as cutting grass or fertilizing plants.
How Important Is Curb Appeal?
Buyers will see your lawn before anything else in your house. In fact, some people already made a mental note on whether to buy the property even before stepping inside. It’s not only essential to have a clean front yard, but also make it look new. A new coat of paint alone can significantly improve the appearance, and you could do this during your spare time.
But when it comes to the design of your lawn, it’s better to hire a landscape designer who will have a better chance of achieving your desired look. It only costs at least $50 per hour to consult one and ask about different gardening topics, from knowing the better spots for plants to the right style to complement your home.
Take note that landscape designers are different from landscape architects since the latter requires a license and certification. Most designers only need a bachelor’s degree, so experience will be the critical factor in hiring the right person. However, you don’t need a landscape architect for lawn projects, unless you want to make some changes to your entire property.
Other Ways to Prepare
If you’re among 12 million homeowners who have decided to sell this year, a landscape project is just one of the many things on your list. Properties that require significant repairs will be necessary, as well as fixing other defects that might be discovered upon a home inspection. Otherwise, the next best thing to do after a lawn upgrade involves projects that enhance your property’s value.
Bathroom and kitchen renovations have been the perennial choices, although it’s best to lower your budget and expectations for recovering your expenses. More people have had to cut their asking prices in recent months based on industry data. By not overspending, you’re not setting yourself up for a financial loss in case you don’t sell at a profit. Despite the trend of discounted prices, you can still close a sale at a favorable price by knowing the value of your house after a renovation and the market activity in your area.
In the end, a well-maintained landscape still has its benefits even if you don’t plan on selling your home. It not only increases the value of your house but also improves the quality of life. When you look for a landscape designer, you should try to choose among three different professionals before picking the best one.
