Landscaping for Curb Appeal

"Your home is your castle — enjoy it, customize it, make it reflect your taste and values. But, there's one area where being too individualistic carries risk: landscaping for curb appeal. Landscaping is the first thing that potential buyers see, and it reflects well — or poorly — on other homes in the neighborhood. That's why homeowners associations often have exacting rules for it. GOOD landscaping can add up to 28% to overall home value, says landscape economist John Harris."

We recently stumbled across this a fantastic article on the essentials for great landscaping, as they apply to investment in your home ... written by Lisa Gordon, on Houselogic. Whether you're looking to quickly spruce-up your curb appeal or make a long-term investment in the enjoyment of your space - this list of six "essentials" is prioritized in order of their overall ability to make an "impact"!

• Essential #1: Trees
• Essential #2: Native Plants
• Essential #3: Outdoor Lighting
• Nice-To-Have #1: Fencing
• Nice-To-Have #2: Retaining Walls & Terracing
• Nice-To-Have #3: Walkways

Though the photos, plants, and material choices exemplified in Gordon's article aren't local to Arizona, the principles are applicable nation-wide! In the posts listed above, we take a closer look at each of the six essentials and how they apply to us right here in the Valley of the Sun.