Appraising Outdoor Spaces: Evaluating Landscaping and Gardens in Real Estate

Introduction

Outdoor spaces can have a huge impact on the value and aesthetic of a property, so it’s important to consider them when appraising real estate. Landscaping and gardens play a major role in a home’s appearance and value, but there are also safety and zoning considerations to be aware of. In this article, we take a look at what qualifies as an outdoor appraisal and the elements of a great landscaping design. We also go over the external factors that affect the value of outdoor spaces, safety considerations, and the zoning and development regulations to be mindful of.

What is an outdoor appraisal?

An outdoor appraisal is an evaluation of a property's open-air amenities conducted by a certified appraiser. This includes areas such as landscaping, gardens, and outdoor structures like decks, patios, and sheds. Outdoor appraisals are important in helping to determine a property’s true value; they can reveal potential problems and areas of needed improvement. An outdoor appraisal gives both buyers and sellers information about the condition and worth of the property’s outdoor spaces. It helps buyers know what they’re getting and sellers know what improvements may be needed in order to increase the value of the property. Outdoor appraisals are an integral part of understanding the financial health of a real estate property.

How is landscaping considered in real estate appraisals?

Real estate appraisals consider the beauty of a property's landscaping as a part of the home's overall value. Landscaping features like trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants can add beauty and marketability to a home, and will therefore be part of an appraiser's assessment of a home's value. During an appraisal, the appraiser will look at the condition of the landscaping, including its age, size, type, placement, and condition. Additionally, the appraiser will consider any permanent features like irrigation systems, patios, decks, and ponds as they may add to the property value. A home with well-maintained landscaping and attractive features will usually have a higher appraisal than a comparable home with neglected landscaping. Appraisers also consider the aesthetic value of the landscaping when assessing a home's overall value.

What kind of external factors affect the value of outdoor spaces?

When appraising an outdoor space, there are many external factors that can affect the value. These include zoning laws and regulations, neighborhood standards, local crime rates, access to public transportation, accessibility for those with disabilities, and more. Any change in the neighborhood, such as new roads, parks, or other developments, can also have an impact on the value of the space. Additionally, climate and weather can play a role, as well as nearby facilities like schools, hospitals, and shopping outlets. All of these factors can affect the perceived value of the outdoor space and should be taken into account when appraising it.

What are the elements of a great landscaping design?

Creating a great landscaping design can be a challenging but rewarding task. At a basic level, it’s important to consider both the aesthetic and practical aspects depending on the type of property. A few key elements include the use of color, texture, and shapes to create visually appealing spaces. Additionally, think about how the design works with the surrounding environment and how it can be utilized for recreational purposes. Plant selection is also important, focusing on plants that suit the growing conditions of the area and aesthetically pleasing. Lastly, lighting can be used strategically to draw attention to certain areas and elements of the design. Taking into account all these elements, a great outdoor space should be an inviting and functional area that enhances the value of the home.

Are there any safety considerations in outdoor appraisals?

Yes, safety is always an important consideration when conducting an outdoor appraisal. It is important to be aware of the physical surroundings of the property to ensure the safety of yourself and anyone else who may be present. If there is something potentially hazardous on the property, such as a large animal, a steep slope or a body of water, it is important to keep your distance and take the necessary precautions. Additionally, when appraising a property outdoor, it is important to be aware of any potential health and environmental hazards, such as ticks, mosquitoes, or chemical exposures, and take the necessary measures to protect yourself. Finally, always make sure to let someone know where you are when you are out in the field.

What is the difference between a garden and a landscaped area?

The main difference between a garden and a landscaped area is the purpose of the design. Gardens tend to focus on cultivating plants, flowers, vegetables, and other living items for aesthetic or food production purposes. Landscaping, on the other hand, focuses on the overall design and layout of the outdoor space, often including elements such as trees, shrubs, pathways, or stairs. Landscaping also includes features such as ponds and water features, while gardens may simply have a few plants in a designated space. When it comes to appraising outdoor spaces, both gardens and landscaped areas need to be evaluated. The appraisal should take into account the overall design, layout, and purpose of the outdoor space, as well as the plants and other items that are included. For gardens, the appraisal should also consider the age, type, and health of the plants, as well as how often they are maintained.

Is there a difference in value between low-maintenance and high-maintenance landscaping?

Yes, there is often a difference in value between low-maintenance and high-maintenance landscaping. Low-maintenance landscaping is often associated with fewer costs to upkeep, meaning it's cheaper and easier to keep up over the years. High-maintenance landscaping, while more expensive initially, can add more value to a home since it generally looks more attractive and offers more features that a potential buyer would find appealing. This is why appraisers take into account the type of landscaping when appraising a home. Low-maintenance landscaping may not add as much value as a high-maintenance landscape, but it doesn't detract from the overall value either. The key is to find a balance between low-maintenance and high-maintenance landscaping that works for the homeowner's budget and adds the most value to the home.

What are common outdoor features that add value to a property?

When it comes to outdoor features that add value to a property, there are some common features that can have a significant impact on the property's value. Landscaping is one of the most important, as it can make a space more visually appealing and usable. Features like patios and decks can add extra living space and create enclosed areas for outdoor seating. Additionally, trees, plants, and shrubs can provide added privacy and shade, and can make an outdoor space look more inviting. Other features like outdoor kitchens or fire pits are also popular for creating added functional spaces in the outdoors. Finally, a pool or hot tub can be a desirable bonus for potential buyers. All of these features are potential sources of increased value for a property.

How do zoning and development regulations affect outdoor spaces?

Zoning and development regulations have a major impact on outdoor spaces in terms of how they can be used. Depending on the area, these regulations can be quite strict. Depending on the zoning, it may not be possible to use a space for certain purposes, such as a garden or other type of landscaping. These rules can also limit the size of the outdoor space and any changes that can be made to it. All of these can have an effect on the value of the property, as certain features may not be allowed or may require additional documentation or permits. It's important to understand the zoning and development regulations in the area to fully assess the potential of outdoor spaces.

Are there specific types of appraisals for outdoor spaces?

Yes, there are several specific types of appraisals designed to evaluate outdoor spaces. These include landscaping, garden, and pool appraisals. Landscaping appraisers assess the quality of landscape design, the condition of plantings, and the overall value of an outdoor space. Garden appraisals look at the overall condition of a garden, including the hardscape, plants, trees, shrubs, and soil. Pool appraisers evaluate pools and related features for their value. Appraisers use a variety of techniques to assess the condition, quality, and total worth of outdoor spaces, making sure to factor in any existing construction or repairs that could increase or decrease value.

Conclusion

Appraising outdoor spaces adds an extra layer of complexity when assessing a property’s value, as there are many factors to be aware of. At AppraiseItNow, our certified appraisers specialize in assessing outdoor spaces to give clients the most accurate, up-to-date valuations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with outdoor appraisals.