What’s the ROI on landscaping?
Want a 5–12% value lift? What’s the real ROI on landscaping?
Landscaping isn’t decoration. It’s a profit play. Done right, it turns curb appeal into cash, cuts days on market, and drives higher offers. If you’re assessing home improvements and upgrades, landscaping is one of the highest-leverage moves you can make.
Quick answer: expected ROI and value lift
- Typical value lift: 5%–12% of home value from strong curb appeal and targeted landscape upgrades.
- Cost recovery: many projects recover 100%–200% of their cost at resale depending on scope and market.
- Speed to sell: better landscaping can cut time on market by weeks.
These ranges come from multiple real estate and industry reports. Results vary by neighborhood, home condition, and buyer profile. That’s why strategy matters.
Highest-ROI landscaping upgrades (do these first)
- Lawn repair and clean-up (low cost, high impact)
- Cost: $300–$2,000.
- Why it works: buyers judge maintenance first. A healthy lawn signals a cared-for home.
- Fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, and defined beds
- Cost: $200–$1,200.
- Why it works: quick visual polish that boosts perceived value.
- Strategic plantings and trees
- Cost: $500–$5,000.
- Why it works: mature-looking plantings create emotional appeal and long-term value.
- Lighting and curb features (paths, mailbox, entry)
- Cost: $300–$4,000.
- Why it works: improves nighttime curb appeal and perceived safety.
- Hardscape upgrades (patios, walkways, retaining walls)
- Cost: $2,000–$15,000+.
- Why it works: lifestyle sell — buyers pay for usable outdoor living space.
How to calculate expected ROI for your property
- Get baseline home value.
- Choose projects that target curb appeal first (low cost, high visual impact).
- Estimate cost and realistic value lift (use the 5%–12% guideline).
- Calculate ROI = (Estimated value increase ÷ cost) × 100%.
Example: $500,000 home + 6% lift = $30,000 increase. If project cost $3,000, ROI = 1,000%.
That’s not hype. Small, smart investments create quick perceived value that converts to higher offers.
Action plan for maximum ROI
- Start with curb appeal checklist: lawn, mulch, trimmed hedges, clear walkways, clean entry.
- Add targeted lighting and two focal plantings near the entry.
- Avoid over-personalized features buyers won’t value (exotic ponds, overly specific gardens).
- Track costs and get before/after photos for listings.
Why work with a market expert
A local realtor who knows buyer preferences and comps turns landscaping into strategy. They tell you what buyers in your area will pay for and what they won’t. That guidance cuts wasted spend and maximizes return.
Ready to prioritize the upgrades that actually move price and time on market? Contact Tony Sousa — local realtor and home improvement strategist — for a free evaluation and ROI plan at tony@sousasells.ca or 416-477-2620. Visit https://www.sousasells.ca for examples and client results.
