After redoing our yard recently I got the question, does xeriscaping decrease your home value? It is definitely a valid question and I think seeing a realtor xeriscape their front yard definitely made some wonder why I would do that.
So as usual the answer to this question is nuanced. Here are a few follow up questions I would ask.
What type of home do you have? Ranch, 2 Story, Small home, large home.
What kind of neighborhood do you have? Mostly young families, older retired people, a mix, single people?
Where do you live? Is maintaining grass just becoming unatainable
These questions help me give you the best advice and here is why.
Where Xeriscaping May Decrease Your Homes Appeal
Notice I didn’t say value. I have never seen a value given for grass on a appraisal or a decrease for xeriscaping. However appeal to a buyer can determine if a home sells for less or more.
I have found that my younger first time home buyers still want grass. They are looking for larger lots with grass for pets and future or current family time. They feel they have the time and means to maintain a larger grass yard.
You know what else is popular with this demographic, 2 story homes in family friendly neighborhoods.
So this particular type of home in this particular type of neighborhood may lose some appeal if you xeriscape front and back yards.
If you live in a state/area that gets plenty of moisture, xeriscaping also may decrease value as it is easier to keep lush green grass all summer long.
Where Xeriscaping Might Increase Your Homes Appeal
If you have a smaller ranch style home (single story) your home is likely going to appeal to a different type of buyer. I live in one of these homes for full disclosure. These homes are more appealing to older buyers or buyers with older kids. Many of these buyers don’t want to maintain all the things. We have been doing it for years and are tired. Just saying.
This is where xeriscaping may increase the appeal of your home to buyers. Especially if the xeriscaping adds visual appeal to your home, whether it be the front yard, back yard or both. You don’t just want it to be all rocks of the same color and size. A mix with some plants can really enhance the appeal of your home.
If you live in a neighborhood with mostly retirement age people this can be another good place for xeriscaping.
Also, if you are living in a dry state where weather patterns are bringing even less moisture then xeriscaping can absolutely be a good choice for your home. Saving water and money on trying to keep grass alive can be very appealing to some buyers. If you have a smaller home regardless of floor plan then your home will likely appeal to someone that likes the minimal life and not having to keep a yard green in harsh environments is a huge appeal.
What If You Just Want Xeriscaping
If you are planning on staying in your home for another 5+ years, then you should do whatever you want with your home! You own a home so you can do that, so you can enjoy it, so that you can live your life comfortably in it. If that means less yard work, then absolutely go ahead and xeriscape or paint the walls a vivid green or do whatever you want to YOUR home. Just know you depending on the market you sell your home in you may need to make some changes at time of sale.
If you ever have questions about what adds value to your home, your realtor is a great resource!
