When you’re thinking about making a significant change to your home, landscaping might not always be the first thing on your mind. After all, there are so many other projects you could take on: renovating the kitchen, upgrading the bathroom, or perhaps adding a new room. But here’s the truth: landscaping can be one of the most valuable investments you make in your home.

If you’re like us, you know that your outdoor space is more than just a yard—it’s an extension of your home, where you and your family can enjoy nature, host parties and family dinners, and even find a little peace and quiet. The question is, does landscaping really add value to your home, or is it just another expensive project that may not deliver a solid return on investment (ROI)?

Here at Brookside, we understand that making the decision to invest in landscaping is a big one. You’re wondering, “Will I see a return? How much is too much to spend? What makes a landscaping investment worth it?” Well, we’re here to break down the cost vs. value debate and help you decide whether landscaping is truly worth the investment for your home.

The True Cost of Landscaping

Before we dive into the value, it’s important to understand what “cost” means in the context of landscaping. Landscaping isn’t just about picking out some pretty flowers or putting down a few stones. Depending on the scope of the project, it can include anything from designing and installing hardscaping features like patios or walkways to planting trees, shrubs, and flowers, adding irrigation systems, installing lighting, and even putting in water features or outdoor kitchens.
Here are some of the typical costs you might encounter:

  • Hardscaping: This includes features like patios, decks, retaining walls, walkways, and driveways. Costs for these can vary depending on the size of the project, the materials used, and installation method.\
  • Plants and Softscaping: Plants, flowers, trees, grass, and soil are necessary elements of landscaping. The cost can vary greatly based on the type of plants you choose. Budget-friendly options might cost just a few dollars each, while more exotic or larger plants could cost hundreds.
  • Labor: Landscaping labor costs can range from $50 to $100 per hour, depending on the work involved. For a full landscape installation, labor could easily account for 50% or more of the total cost.
    When you start adding all of these elements together, the cost of landscaping can quickly rise into the thousands. So, it’s only natural to wonder, “Am I getting my money’s worth?”

What Is the Value of Landscaping?

While landscaping can have a high initial cost, the return on that investment can be substantial. Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or you’re in it for the long haul, investing in landscaping can offer a variety of benefits, both financial and emotional.

  1. Increased Curb Appeal and First Impressions

    The first thing a potential buyer sees when they pull up to your home is your yard. A beautifully landscaped yard makes an immediate impression and can set the tone for the rest of the home. If you’re thinking about selling your home, a well-maintained landscape is one of the first things that will help your home stand out from the competition.
    The Value: According to the National Association of Realtors, landscaping can provide up to a 15% increase in your home’s value. A study by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) found that landscaping can increase a home’s curb appeal by up to 20%, which can translate into a quicker sale and a higher asking price.

  2. Enhanced Usability of Outdoor Space

    A great landscape doesn’t just look good; it can also make your outdoor space more functional. Whether it’s a patio for entertaining, a fire pit for family gatherings, or a tranquil garden for relaxation, landscaping adds usable space to your home that can be enjoyed by you, your family, and your guests.
    The Value: Homebuyers are increasingly seeking homes with functional outdoor living areas. In fact, 55% of homeowners say they use their backyard more often after investing in landscaping, and outdoor living spaces rank as one of the top home features sought by buyers.

  3. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Benefits

    Landscaping is not only about aesthetics—it can also have long-term environmental benefits. Strategic planting of trees and shrubs can provide natural shade for your home, reducing your need for air conditioning in the summer. Additionally, thoughtful landscaping choices, such as drought-tolerant plants, can help conserve water and lower your utility bills. Not to mention potential for added privacy.
    The Value: Trees and shrubs strategically placed around your home can lower cooling costs by up to 25%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This means that investing in the right plants and features can save you money year-round.

  4. Improved Quality of Life

    While it’s hard to quantify, the emotional value of having a beautiful, well-maintained landscape cannot be ignored. A well-landscaped yard provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It gives you a place to unwind, entertain, and enjoy time outdoors. Landscaping adds to your quality of life, creating a space where you can truly relax and connect with nature and your family and friends.
    The Value: For many homeowners, the enjoyment of their outdoor space is worth more than any financial ROI. Studies have shown that spending time in nature or in well-designed outdoor spaces can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. This emotional value can be priceless, especially for those who view their home as a sanctuary.

  5. Return on Investment (ROI) for Landscaping

    Let’s get into the numbers. Landscaping has a proven track record when it comes to ROI. In fact, some studies suggest that landscaping provides one of the highest returns on investment of any home improvement project.
    The Value: According to Remodeling magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range landscaping project yields an average return of about 100%. In simpler terms, you can expect to get back what you spend on landscaping, sometimes even more. This makes landscaping a solid investment if you’re planning on selling or even just increasing the value of your home for your own enjoyment.

Is Landscaping Worth the Investment for Your Home?

At the end of the day, the answer to this question depends on your goals and how much you’re willing to invest in the long-term value of your home. While the upfront costs of landscaping can be significant, the return in terms of increased property value, improved curb appeal, and enhanced outdoor enjoyment can make it a wise decision.

If you’re planning to stay in your home for several years, landscaping is an investment that will pay off in both enjoyment and future resale value. On the other hand, if you’re thinking of selling soon, investing in your landscape is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’re here to help you navigate the decision-making process. We understand the balance between cost and value, and we’re committed to helping homeowners on the Kitsap Peninsula make informed, thoughtful decisions about their landscaping investments. Whether you’re interested in improving curb appeal, creating a space for outdoor living, or simply making your yard more enjoyable, we’ll work with you to create a landscaping plan that fits your budget and meets your goals.

If you’re ready to make the most of your outdoor space, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s talk about how we can help you transform your yard into something that’s beautiful, functional, and valuable for years to come!