That old saying “money grows on trees” is more than just a saying. When considering purchasing a home or adding value to your current property, trees may not come to mind at first. However, trees can help not only with the curb appeal but can save homeowners on energy costs as well. Homes that have trees in their front yard can increase the property value by nearly $7,000 according to PNW Research Station. Add some beautiful landscaping in there and potential homebuyers will come crawling out of the woodwork. To increase curb appeal one should consider the type of trees they are placing in their yard and where they place it. These are some things to consider when planting trees in your front or backyard. For the most part, fruit and palm trees are not very appealing to potential homebuyers. Fruit trees are more of a preference and some may find them a nuisance due to their upkeep. Other eye sores to consider are dead trees or unkept trees. These will be a turn-off to homebuyers because they will assume if the yard is unkept then most likely the house is unkept as well. Depending on where you live will determine what trees will be the best value for your property. You will have to consider the climate and which trees can thrive in your climate zone. Climate Zone 3-8 The Northern Red Oak Sugar Maple Climate Zone 4-7 Concolor Fir Climate Zone 5-8 Bigleaf Magnolia Climate Zone 7-10 Crape Myrtle In order to maintain curb appeal, your trees should be healthy and planted in the right place. If the trees are planted too close to the house you can risk damaging your home. If you believe your tree is too close to your home or think it might be dying, contacting a professional tree service in your area can help you determine what is best for your situation. Tree stumps or hanging branches can be removed by a local arborist. Here are some signs that your trees are decreasing the property value of your home according to Davey:
- Decay-producing fungi, such as mushrooms, growing at the base of the trunk
- Chipped or peeling bark and cracks in the trunk
- Cavities in the trunk or large scaffold branches
- Dead or hanging branches in the upper crown
- Fine twigs without living buds near the ends of branches