Landscaping is comprised of any activity that alters any area of land. Some call it gardening, others know it’s more than that. With any new home, landscaping is a necessity and there is so much more to it than simply choosing the type of lawn you will lay and where the pool will go. Landscaping elements include, fencing, flowers, hedges & trees, letterboxes, retaining walls, pools and water features, pathways, fire pits / outdoor heating, driveways and that’s just barely scratching the surface.
According to John Harris, landscape economist, quality landscaping can increase the value of your home by up to 28%. Another research paper conducted by Mark S. Henry, professor at Clemson University, states that thinking outside the box and increasing your landscaping efforts to create something truly great in your backyard can then add a further 7% to that original 28%. Outdoor spaces, especially in Australia, are such an important part of any home and as such they are directly related to the overall appeal of any property, having the power to influence buyer perceptions and the amount they are willing to spend.
With numbers like that why wouldn’t you make the effort? Especially considering that without well thought out landscaping your luxury home will be sitting on a square of dirt and no one wants that. Whether you’re a family who loves to spend time in the pool or a family who detests swimming and would rather sit next to a beautiful flower or veggie patch, there is something out there for everyone.
Things to think about:
- The amount of sunlight your block receives.
- Size and orientation.
- The amount of maintenance your happy with.
- Colour > how much of it and where > consult a colour wheel if you’re unsure.
- View from inside the house.
- Less is more, start small.
- Carefully consider any pets and children when selecting your mulch and flowers.
If you’re unsure about the type of outdoor space you and your family want, take the time and speak with a professional, you don’t need to make all the decisions at once. Kaplan Homes have a team of experts who are more than happy to answer all of your questions and point you in the right direction.
