Landscaping is defined as the exterior décor of a property, including the residence itself, natural features of the land and any man-made alterations. Natural features include trees, shrubs, flowers, grass, organic water features, organic grading and any other naturally occurring property feature.
Man-made alterations include primary and secondary structures built upon the land, artificial water features, like pools and ponds, fences and walls, artificial grading, as well as any other architectural, aesthetic, artistic or functional changes that have been made to the natural lay of the land.
This is a wide ranging and complicated definition to be sure. To simplify matters, this essay focuses on improving the outdoor aesthetics of any home, by enhancing the surrounding propertyscape.
Landscaping Functions
The external features of a piece of real estate are instrumental in creating senses of balance, proportion, contrast, coordination, aesthetic appeal and overall flow to the property. Improving the propertyscape will truly enrich the actual and perceived value of a home and will create greater buyer interest.
A flat and empty property looks devoid of life, charm or hope, while a fully-graded, planted and built-upon lot brings out the potential for providing a happy and tranquil home environment. Empty land will most commonly leave the prospective buyer with an empty and unfulfilled feeling, while a properly designed plot will inspire the mind and soul with the welcoming potential offered by the residence. It is for this reason that sellers should always make a concerted effort to ensure that the exterior of their home is as beautiful as the inside, if not more so.
Landscaping Design
Landscape design is the art and science of planning, arranging and executing a pleasing aesthetic in the outside of a home. This plan can be simple and cost efficient, or can be detailed and pricey.
Obviously, many properties have inherent value built into them, given the variety of naturally wonderful features which are already present on the land. However, even the most barren and seemingly useless pieces of real estate can be upgraded to sparkle with interest, functionality and inspiration, using proper design techniques.
Propertyscape design, execution and maintenance are specialties of exterior aesthetic specialists. Improving the outdoor areas of your home using beautiful exterior home staging is a good way to increase the chances for a fast and profitable sale of your house.
Landscape Installations
Most homes are already fully propertyscaped. However, this is not always a good thing. If the exterior design is a bit old, ill-maintained or overgrown, the yard may just need some TLC to get it back to a idyllic state. If the design is poor or key elements have changed, then it may be time to makeover the yard using a new and improved design plan.
Both of these approaches can be easily performed by the homeowner, with some time, effort and sweat equity. Hiring a professional will be more expensive, but will also be a fast and easy way to get the job finished and get your home on the market quickly. Either way, the return on your investment in outdoor products and services should be good, with many sellers realizing a complete return on their money and a few even making a substantial profit.