First impressions matter, and when it comes to your home, it’s all about the street appeal. The exterior of your house and the condition of your garden can significantly impact the perception of your property, whether you’re looking to sell or simply want to come home to a welcoming and attractive environment.
According to research, nine out of 10 Australians would offer below the asking price for a property with an unappealing exterior, with Queensland residents making offers as low as 15% below the asking price. So, it’s crucial to keep your garden in check to maximise the value of your property.
If you want to improve your home’s street appeal, here are 8 easy and effective ways to a garden makeover:
1. Prune for Health and Aesthetics
Pruning your plants not only makes them look tidier but also encourages growth and health. It’s important to prune at the right time of year, generally after flowering, and to cut just above new shoots for a nice, even shape. Proper pruning is an artistic touch-up that can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your garden. Hiring a professional to trim hedges and shrubs can ensure a polished and well-maintained look that adds to your home’s street appeal.
2. Weed for a Neat and Tidy Garden
Weeds can quickly take over your garden and make it look neglected. Take the time to regularly remove weeds and dead plants from your garden beds, including their roots, using long-handled tools or even enlisting the help of kids for a small fee. Avoid using chemical weed killers to keep your weeds at bay and opt for natural solutions like a salt and vinegar solution for persistent weeds, which are more environmentally friendly.
3. Plant with Purpose
Fill in gaps in your garden with a few larger, native plants instead of many small ones for a more impactful and cost-effective approach. For healthy soil, add compost, manure, and fertilisers to any soil. Using the right soil around the base of new plants will give them the best start in your garden and help them thrive.
4. Water Wisely
Proper watering is crucial for the health and vitality of your plants. While some plants can survive with irregular watering, most will benefit from a drink 1-2 times a week, especially during the summer months. Use a mixture of seaweed solution and water in your watering can to nourish your plants and keep them healthy and lush.
5. Mulch for Moisture and Weed Control
Mulching is a simple yet effective way to improve your garden’s soil, suppress weeds, and retain moisture. For vegetable patches and small areas, consider using sugar cane, organic mulch or pea straw mulch, while wood chips like pine bark are ideal for decorative areas and front gardens.
6. Revamp Your Lawn for a Lush and Green Look
A well-maintained lawn can significantly enhance your home’s street appeal. Start by establishing a watering schedule and regularly mowing your lawn to the correct height, avoiding scalping and maintaining clean-cut edges with an edger. Address any dead patches by adding compost and consider pest control and fertilisation for optimal lawn health.
7. Pave Your Pathway for a Welcoming Entrance
Don’t overlook the impact of a well-designed paved pathway in your front yard. Consider using pavers instead of a concrete slab, as they are more forgiving with ground movement and easier to repair or replace if needed. With a wide variety of patterns, colours, finishes, and styles available, you can choose a pathway that complements your home’s aesthetic and adds to its overall street appeal.
8. Focus on the fence
Fencing is a critical element that should not be underestimated when striving to enhance the street appeal of your garden. For older weatherboard homes in Queensland, a classic picket fence can be a delightful addition, providing character and security without obstructing the view. However, it’s crucial to consider your property’s overall design and location before deciding on a fence style. For modern homes in new subdivisions, rendered walls with timber inserts or colorbond fencing may be more fitting, while living on a main road may require a fence that offers additional security beyond a traditional paling fence.
Get in touch!
Enhancing your home’s street appeal through your garden can have a significant impact on the perception of your property, whether you’re looking to sell or simply want to create a welcoming environment.
Call the experts in Gold Coast landscape design and construction at Lynx Landscaping. We offer a full range of services, including outdoor space landscaping and fencing.
Contact us at 0406 819 620 to get a free quote and let us show you how we can transform your outdoor space.
