Getting the Lay of the Land—Landscaping Counts When Looking at South Florida Homes

By Mary Damiano

Home sellers have heard all about curb appeal, making a home look great on the outside by sprucing up the landscaping and appearance of the house.

But homebuyers should also look at landscaping when perusing homes for sale in South Florida.

Landscaping is one of the primary reasons homes sell, according to real estate appraisers. Lush landscaping and pretty plants can add 15 percent to the value of a home.

When looking at properties, pay special attention to trees. Healthy older trees can add value to a home. When looking at older trees around newly built homes, look for evidence of bulldozer damage or other damage caused by new construction.

Because of the weather, large, backyards of South Florida homes can act as an extra room, so it makes sense to look closely at several factors. Look at how the sun hits the yard. A yard with a southeastern exposure is most conducive to relaxing. Also pay attention to drainage patterns, pedestrian patterns, irrigation and paving. For optimum benefits, shade trees should be located 25 feet from the home.

Examine the land. Angles and contours can be visually interesting, but grades should take water off the property. If the grade of the land goes the wrong way, puddling can occur. Make sure that water runs in the opposite direction of the house and any other structures.

Remember, when looking at South Florida homes for sale, you’re not just buying the house, you’re buying the landscaping. Careful examination of the grounds of a house can not only add to your enjoyment of the home but also add to your overall investment.