A 2017 study that focused on three Sydney suburbs found that a 10% increase in tree cover could increase property values by an average of AUD$50,000, and a similar American study found that trees increased property values by 2-15%, depending on the neighbourhood and the location of the trees.
So, what is it that home buyers love about trees? While the studies don’t go into detail, there are some clear benefits to having well-maintained trees on your property when it’s time to sell.
Real estate agents often talk about street appeal (or ‘curb appeal’) as the first impression your property makes on potential buyers. Mature trees beautify your property and instantly lift the aesthetic appeal of your home. The more potential buyers that fall in love with your property, the better your sale price is likely to be, so that first impression counts.
Mature trees and large shrubs create a feeling of privacy and security, which can be a huge selling point for properties in subdivisions and densely-packed urban areas.
A well-designed outdoor living area acts as another room in your home, extending the usable space and increasing the property’s perceived value. Trees protect your outdoor space from the wider environment by providing shade in summer and shelter in winter. They also provide natural noise reduction, minimising the impact of road traffic and nearby shops or schools.
All of this protection means that your outdoor areas can be enjoyed as social spaces for most of the year, adding value for your potential buyers.
The general ambience of a property has a big impact on how potential buyers feel, and what could be more relaxing than a beautifully cared-for property dotted with mature trees?
Multiple studies have researched the calming effects of spending time in nature, and we all know the peaceful feeling of standing in a beautiful garden, forest, or native bush. Trees also bring more bird life into your backyard, adding to the welcoming ambience.
If you’re planning to sell, it’s worth having a Treetech arborist make sure those value-adding trees are looking their best. Contact our team here.
References:
AECOM Brilliant Cities report: http://www.aecom.com/content/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Green-Infrastructure-vital-step-brilliant-Australian-cities.pdf
‘City Trees and Property Values,’ Kathleen L. Wolf (PDF): https://www.naturewithin.info/Policy/Hedonics_Citations.pdf
‘Psychological effects of forest environments on healthy adults’:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17055544/
‘Urban trees and human health: A scoping review’
