Whether you’re moving this year, in five years, or not until you’re ready to retire, it makes sense to take care of your yard and keep in mind how changes will affect your home’s value. Things like complex gardens that look like they take a lot of time don’t tend to sell homes. Pools are another addition that might be a great selling point for some but often look like a huge liability risk. Here are some backyard ideas that increase your home’s value!

Grass is Out.

While many families will want a little grass for the dog or the kids, grass is no longer the option of choice. It makes sense. In North America that agricultural crop that uses the most water each year isn’t wheat or oats or potatoes – it’s grass. Many people are beginning to realize grass is often a huge waste of their time and water bill. Instead, homeowners are preferring low maintenance shrubs and perennials. Stone and cedar chips are also great for weed control with almost no work.

Trees are In.

Trees are one of the few things that actually increase in value as they age. An old trees look beautiful, provides shade, and produces oxygen. When it comes to planting trees you’ll want to make sure you choose a variety without invasive roots, but otherwise it’s hard to go wrong! As the proverb goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.”

Outdoor Rooms.

Though you might think with Alberta’s vicious and long winters an outdoor sitting room, dining room, or kitchen might not really make sense, they’re actually surprisingly popular. These outdoor rooms can be quite the investment or they can be very affordable. The best value here is investing in a nice looking, covered patio with a family room feel. This means outdoor couches and comfy lounging seats not just plastic lawn chairs. A full outdoor kitchen with sink, fridge, and stove will be more expensive to put in, but it acts as a status symbol and may increase the value of your home enough to cover some of the costs.

Landscaping your yard is about having the sanctuary and backyard resort that works for you. But if you’re planning on moving, it might make sense to give the experts at Five Star a call to find out what backyard reno is going to give you the most value when you sell your home. Call today at ( 403)203-4058.