Your Landscaping Is Hurting Your Home?s Value. Here?s How to Fix It.

Think your landscaping is adding value to your home? You might want to take a second look—neglected or outdated yards can slash your resale price by thousands. A neatly trimmed lawn and a few shrubs won’t cut it if your outdoor space lacks design, functionality, or curb appeal. 

On the flip side, a custom landscape design does more than create an inviting atmosphere—it’s a financial strategy that can significantly improve resale value. The right custom landscape design improves usability, reduces upkeep, and gives buyers confidence that a property has been well cared for. If your outdoor space isn’t working for you, there’s a fix. 

That’s where Degree Lawn & Landscape comes in. By focusing on landscape design that balances beauty and functionality, we help homeowners create outdoor spaces that work for their lifestyle while maximizing property value. 

The Landscaping Mistakes That Cost You Money—and How to Fix Them 

Some landscaping problems are obvious, like overgrown trees or patchy grass, but others are easy to overlook. Homeowners often invest in landscaping without a long-term plan, which leads to unnecessary upkeep, wasted space, and designs that don’t complement the home. 

One of the biggest missteps is planting the wrong greenery. High-maintenance plants that struggle in the local climate often require constant care and still fail to thrive. The solution is to swap them for native species or drought-resistant plants that require less water and upkeep. Another common issue is a yard that lacks function. A large lawn with no structure might be easy to mow, but it doesn’t create a welcoming environment. Adding curb appeal landscaping, garden beds, or defined seating areas makes a yard feel intentional and complete. 

Hardscaping features like stone walkways, firepits, or other built-in elements are often overlooked, but play a major role in how a yard is used. Without patios, seating areas, or retaining walls, an outdoor space can feel unfinished. Even small additions turn an underwhelming yard into a space that invites relaxation and opportunities for entertaining. Degree specializes in creating landscaping ideas that make outdoor spaces more beautiful and functional.  

Landscaping Investments That Pay Off 

A yard should be more than something to look at—it should add real value to a home. The best home landscaping ideas enhance both beauty and functionality while making a lasting impact on resale value. 

Outdoor entertainment spaces are among the smartest investments. A patio, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen extends the home’s living area, making the space feel larger and more inviting. Thoughtfully placed landscape lighting enhances both safety and ambiance, creating a welcoming atmosphere for evening gatherings. Native plant gardens add natural beauty with minimal upkeep, blending seamlessly with the surrounding space while increasing property value. 

Hardscaping adds structure while increasing a home’s perceived value. Retaining walls, stone pathways, and defined garden beds make a yard feel complete rather than like an open, unused space. Unlike high-maintenance flower beds, these features create a finished look with minimal upkeep. Degree helps homeowners make smart landscaping investments that increase property value while improving everyday enjoyment. 

The Right Landscaping Can Save You Money, Too 

When landscaping is done right, it both increases home value and lowers long-term costs. A well-designed yard works with the natural environment, reducing energy both inside and out, preventing damage from weather or wear and tear, and cutting long-term maintenance expenses. 

Strategic tree placement provides natural cooling, lowering air conditioning costs in the summer. Thoughtful grading and drainage prevent water from pooling near the foundation, avoiding expensive repairs. Walkways, patios, and retaining walls help control runoff, keeping soil in place while reducing erosion. 

Regular lawn maintenance also prevents minor issues from turning into costly problems. Something as simple as mulching garden beds helps the soil retain moisture, cutting down on watering needs. With the right custom landscape design, a yard becomes an investment that pays off in multiple ways—enhancing daily life, reducing upkeep, and increasing home value all at once.