The Benefits of Trees

Fun Facts

Handy Facts Regarding the Impact of Trees and Landscaping

• Studies have shown that attractive landscaping increases the value of a home, and that has been even more true in the past few years as the housing market continued to boom despite the soft economy. (as reported in the Star Tribune - May 24, 2003)
  
  
• ... The money homeowners spend on landscaping is a good investment. When lots are attractive and well care-for, it sends a message about the care of the house inside as well.
  (Eric Flom, home appraiser in Ramsey, Hennepin, Washington, and Dakota counties for Town & Home Appraisal Network in Roseville, as reported in the Star Tribune - May 24, 2003)
  
  
• According to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, a mature tree often can add an appraised value of $1,000 to $10,000... when comparing a home to similar properties.
  (Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, as reported in the Star Tribune - May 24, 2003)
  
  
• ... Landscaping has become even more important in the past few years. Buyers are more informed and have higher expectations, he said, even for entry-level homes (those in a price range from $100,000 to $225,000). A nice lawn with some trees and flowers can help push a price into the higher end of its range and move the house faster...
  (Eric Flom, home appraiser in Ramsey, Hennepin, Washington, and Dakota counties for Town & Home Appraisal Network in Roseville (reported in the Star Tribune - May 24, 2003)
  
  
• A distinctive landscape is an even stronger selling point for townhouses and other high-density developments... it's less expected in those projects and shows the owner took some extra care.
  (Gary Zumberge, owner of CVS Home Appraisals in Edina, reported in the Star Tribune 5/23/2003)
  
  
• Trees can cut energy costs, fight air and noise pollution, and help prevent erosion and storm-water damage. According to the American Forest Industry Association, one tree in the city can provide savings of up to $274 a year in air-conditioning costs.
  (American Forest Industry Association, as reported in the Star Tribune - May 24, 2003)
  
  

Comparison of Home Investment Recovery Averages (with sound planning):
• Landscaping - 100 to 200 percent
• Kitchen Remodeling - 75 to 125 percent
• Bathroom remodeling - 20 to 120 percent
• Installing a swimming pool - 20 to 50 percent
(Money Magazine, as reported in Star Tribune - May 24, 2003)