Not only do trees add aesthetic value to any home or commercial property, they are one of the best ways to add monetary value to your property too. While we all can see that a tree increases privacy, shade, and generally improves a property’s curb appeal; the increase in property value is a major upside to the beauty of trees. The main question is: will just any tree add value and what trees should you plant if your aim is to sell your house for more?
The good news for homeowners and commercial property owners is that most healthy mature trees will add value to a property. As social-scientist Kathleen Wolf points out in an article for Arborist News, ‘homes with trees are generally preferred to comparable homes without trees, with the trend across studies being a price increase of about 7%. One fascinating statistic from the article: mature trees in high-income neighborhoods command on average a 10-15% price increase on a home value – much more than the average in less affluent areas. So, if you live in an area where homes generally cost more, adding a mature tree will increase its value even further. In cheaper areas, the cost increase may be as little as 2%.
What trees add the most value to your property?
Value added will depend on factors like where you live, your climate zone and, of course, which tree you select. There is a scientific formula for working out the precise value of each tree (though it’s not often implemented). Much of this method relies on determining the ‘condition class’ of tree – basically, a healthy and thriving tree will always add more value than one that is diseased or generally in poor shape.
For a warmer climate like Houston, go for citrus, palm trees, magnolias, and anything with fragrant, exotic blossoms. Fruit trees are highly valuable, and varieties of lime, orange and lemon trees do very well in our area so you can’t go wrong with a mini citrus grove (or even just one tree). Just make sure to protect them in the event we do get a harsh freeze.
Be careful with species that have invasive, sprawling root systems – these include American elm, willows, and hybrid poplars. You still can have these trees in your front yard, but make sure they’re planted far enough away from the property to ensure they don’t affect the foundation or plumbing. Never plant these trees next to a swimming pool. Another thing to consider is whether the mature tree in the landscape will block off natural light in your home or commercial property. Thinking about the tree down the road when it is at its mature height helps to avoid problems with a tree planted too close to the property.
Real estate agent Buzz Mackintosh said in a Homelight article: ‘I’ve sold houses in neighborhoods where the landscaping got out of control and needed to be trimmed back just so you could see the house. Landscaping can cover up the property which can hinder the photographer from being able to take decent photos of the house.’
A well-shaped healthy tree will almost certainly increase your home value, but make sure it’s not out of control, diseased, or wrong for your area. The certified arborists at Embark Services are here to help you make the right tree selection for your home or commercial property. We can work together to select a variety that is both aesthetically pleasing and maximizes the value added to your property.
