Add home value from the ground up

Kerb appeal begins with the front garden and home sales can be made or lost on this vital first impression.

Ewa Skoczek​, of McIntyre Property, says the garden is a big indicator of home presentation.

“If the garden is poorly maintained then the house is often in a similar condition,” she says.

“It’s really in the homeowner’s interest to address the presentation of the front garden. Any grass should be freshly mowed, leaves raked, trees and bushes pruned. Put in some fresh colour with potted plants.”

Skoczek says people should be motivated to give the garden a makeover to maximise sale price.

“Poorly presented gardens can impact the final price by as much as 10 per cent,” she says.

“That’s a powerful reason to put in some work.”

Mike Ryan, of Value Properties, says the back garden is equally important because of the role it plays in visually extending the living areas.

“The indoor-outdoor connection has become really important to our modern lifestyles and how we entertain,” he says.

“A pergola or shaded area can provide an additional living area in summer and even winter with the right orientation.

“Another aspect that’s often important to buyers is a square of lawn – it’s just the thing for the kids and pets,” Ryan says.

The Value Properties principal says aside from the financial and practical aspects of a well-maintained garden, there’s another less tangible, but no less important aspect.

 “A well-maintained garden can make a home feel just right and provide a really comforting sense of place,” Ryan says.

Green thumb glory

Kerb appeal begins with a well-planned garden that enhances the presentation of the house. It’s about balance and proportion; the right mix of plants, colour, and perhaps, a tightly clipped lawn.

Maintenance is the key to a garden that adds value to the sale price of a home. Rake up the leaves, prune bushes and trees. Add a pop of colour with potted plants.

Enjoy. Gardens are not just ornamental – they’re meant to be enjoyed. There’s nothing like the outdoor entertaining area as a forum for bringing together family and friends within a natural setting. 

Images:

Abstract House by Matt Gibson Architecture + Design. Photography: Shannon McGrath

Shadow House by Matt Gibson Architecture + Design, Mim Design. Landscape: Ben Scott Garden Design. Photography: Shannon McGrath