Lawn and landscaping items can increase your home value and make your time at home more enjoyable. But which ones will deliver the biggest return on investment and joy?
Should you keep mowing your lawn and weeding your flower beds, or go bigger with an outdoor kitchen or backyard deck? This guide covers the 10 landscaping projects with the greatest ROI for homeowners, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
To learn what not to do, check out our article: Lawn and Landscape Items That Can Deter Buyers.
If weekend time is tight, basics like lawn mowing service tend to be the fastest way to keep curb appeal “showing-ready.”
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| • Well-maintained lawns offer the highest ROI at 217%, followed by general landscape upkeep at 104%. • Strategic improvements like outdoor kitchens and paver patios can recover 95% to 100% of investment costs. • Landscaping increases home value through enhanced curb appeal, which directly influences buyer perception and purchasing decisions. |
Why Landscaping Matters to Homebuyers
For potential buyers, your yard is the first thing they see — both online and in person. Strong curb appeal signals that the entire home has been well-cared for, and that first impression carries weight.
According to the NAR’s 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, 97% of real estate agents believe curb appeal is important in attracting a buyer, and 92% recommend that sellers improve it before listing. A beautiful, functional outdoor space helps buyers imagine their own life there — hosting barbecues, watching kids play, or just relaxing on a Saturday afternoon.
That emotional connection can be the deciding factor that sets your home apart.
How Landscaping Affects Your Home Value
Landscaping pays you back twice: once while you’re living in the home, and again when you sell. The NAR’s report captures both sides of that equation, rating each project on two measures:
ROI (Return on Investment): How much of your investment you get back. A 217% ROI means that for every $100 you spend on lawn maintenance, you recover roughly $217 in added home value at sale.
Joy Score: How happy homeowners are with a project while still living in the home, on a scale of 1 to 10. Think of it as the “Are you glad you did it?” score.
The financial returns can be significant. Well-maintained lawns can deliver up to 217% ROI, while strategic improvements like outdoor kitchens and paver patios recover 95% to 100% of investment costs, according to the NAR.
“Curb appeal can be a huge factor when selling a home,” Appraisal Institute president Craig Steinley says.
Landscaping is one of the most impactful exterior home improvements for curb appeal, which directly influences buying decisions. A Virginia Tech Extension landscape value study found that upgrading landscaping from average to excellent can increase perceived home value by 10% to 12%. That’s roughly $40,000 to $48,000 on a home priced around $400,000.
See Related: Exterior Home Improvements That Can Increase Resale Value
10 Landscaping Projects With the Highest ROI
Not all landscaping projects provide equal returns. These 10 deliver the strongest combination of resale value and everyday enjoyment, according to the NAR report.
| Landscaping Project | Landscaping ROI | Joy Score |
| Well-Maintained Lawn | 217% | 9.4 out of 10 |
| General Landscape Upkeep | 104% | 9.6 out of 10 |
| Outdoor Kitchen | 100% | 9.0 out of 10 |
| Landscape Upgrades | 100% | 9.7 out of 10 |
| New Paver Patio | 95% | 9.9 out of 10 |
| New Wooden Deck | 89% | 9.8 out of 10 |
| Tree Upkeep | 87% | 9.3 out of 10 |
| Automated Irrigation System | 83% | 9.4 out of 10 |
| Outdoor Lighting | 59% | 10 out of 10 |
| Outdoor Fire Feature | 56% | 9.7 out of 10 |
Here’s what these landscaping improvements typically cost:
| Project Type | Typical Cost Range |
| Lawn Fertilization | $67-$405 |
| Weed Control | $50-$210 |
| General Landscape Upkeep | $42–$68 per mow $77–$94 per cubic yard (mulch) $20–$46 per bush (pruning) |
| Outdoor Kitchen | $5,057-$17,276 |
| Paver Patio | $10-$24 per sq ft |
| Wooden Deck | $15-$55 per sq ft |
| Tree Trimming | $430-$640 |
| Sprinkler System | $4,500-$8,500 |
| Landscape Lighting | $2,000-$4,500 |
| Outdoor Fire Feature | $135 DIY to $30,000+ professional |
Working With a Limited Budget? Start Here.
Not everyone can tackle all 10 projects at once, and that’s fine. Here’s a simple priority order based on ROI:
Under $500: Start with the highest-ROI basics. Weed control, with current weed control cost averaging $50 to $210 overall, helps anchor a well-maintained lawn with a 217% ROI.
$500–$2,000: Add general landscape upkeep — mowing, mulching, and shrub pruning — for a 104% ROI. At $42–$68 per mow, $77–$94 per cubic yard for mulch, and $20–$46 per shrub for pruning, this tier is accessible for most homeowners.
$3,000+: Consider hardscape additions like an outdoor lighting system ($2,000–$4,500) or an automated irrigation system ($4,500-$8,500) that signal a turn-key home to buyers.
$10,000+: Outdoor kitchens, paver patios, and wooden decks offer strong landscaping ROI (89%–100%) but require significant upfront investment. These are best pursued if you plan to enjoy them for several years before selling.
See Related: 20 Cheap Landscaping Ideas to Improve Your Yard
1. Well-Maintained Lawn: Best Landscaping ROI
ROI: 217%
Joy Score: 9.4 out of 10
Average project: Routine care that includes six fertilizer and weed control treatments
A lush, green carpet feels like nature’s welcome mat for your home. Whether it’s kids giggling on soft grass or your furry friends zooming around with joy, a well-kept lawn is where everyday moments become cherished memories.
The numbers back up that feeling: According to the NAR, lawn maintenance comes with a 217% ROI, so you’re getting back double the investment.
Lawn maintenance costs depend on services needed and yard size. Lawn fertilization costs from $218 to $871 per application for a quarter-acre lawn, while weed control costs between $60 to $230 per treatment for the same size lawn.
If you want a great-looking lawn but don’t want to sweat doing that work, LawnStarter can help.
“It doesn’t take a lot from a lawn care professional to keep a customer’s yard looking great,” says Justin Stultz, owner of Wildflower Lawn Care, in Hutto, Texas and a LawnStarter pro. “Whereas for the customer it could be three or four hours out of their weekend if they don’t have good equipment.”
Our lawn mowing pros cut grass, trim around the edges, and blow away any debris from sidewalks and driveways, leaving the yard neat and clean.
2. General Landscape Upkeep for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 104%
Joy Score: 9.6 out of 10
Average project: Regular mowing, pruning shrubs, placing mulch around trees, and planting flowers (perennials or annuals)
Regular yard work — mowing, pruning trees and bushes, planting flowers, and mulching — can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, making it more inviting to buyers and increasing market value.
And talk about almost instant gratification. After cutting the grass to spruce up your yard, your sense of satisfaction will be high (even if you’re tired). Your yard looks great.
Lawn care costs vary based on the task and your lawn size. On average, professional mowing costs range from $42 to $68 per mow, mulching costs vary by material and delivery, and bush trimming cost typically ranges from $20 to $46 per bush.
See Related: Affordable Ways to Spruce Up Your Yard
3. Outdoor Kitchen for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 100%
Joy Score: 9.0 out of 10
Average project: Installing inset grill, sink, ice chest, stainless steel drawers, and 60 square feet of concrete countertops
An outdoor kitchen transforms your backyard into a culinary destination. Picture grilling steaks under a star-studded sky or wowing your friends with a piping-hot treat from your pizza oven.
It also adds to its market value. According to a Zillow research, homes with outdoor kitchens sell for 4.4% more than comparable homes without one.
An outdoor kitchen costs on average from $5,057 to $17,276 for professional installation, depending on materials, size, and setup complexity (around $32.50 to $100 per square foot). DIY installation might save money, costing about $3,953.
4. Landscape Upgrades for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 100%
Joy Score: 9.7 out of 10
Average project: Planting 5 flowering bushes and a large tree. Add 2 stone planters, a natural flagstone front walkway and mulch around shrubs, trees, and garden beds.
Real estate experts say landscaping upgrades pay off. Planting flowering shrubs, spreading mulch, and exploring creative walkway ideas turn the heads of neighbors and potential buyers alike. If you’re unsure where to start, consider hiring a professional landscape designer — they can map out the full project in phases so you’re not overwhelmed or overspending all at once.
The overall landscaping cost for professional services averages about $1,400 to $1,660 nationally, though complex custom projects can run much higher.
A paver walkway costs $1,430 and $3,530 nationally, while tree planting costs vary by species, size, age, and location.
5. New Paver Patio for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 95%
Joy Score: 9.9 out of 10
Average project: Adding a concrete paver patio (18×16 feet) installed on compacted gravel and sand
A new paver patio creates versatile outdoor living space. Unlike poured concrete, pavers are individual stones or bricks set in a pattern over a compacted gravel and sand base — meaning individual pieces can be replaced if damaged.
Combine paver colors and designs for unique patterns, add seating areas and a container garden, and your backyard becomes a go-to spot for entertaining and relaxation.
Whether you’re hosting lively birthday parties or enjoying quiet candlelit dinners for two, a paver patio upgrades your backyard’s appeal.
A paver patio costs about $12 to $17 per square foot for a DIY installation and average $20 to $27 per square foot if professionally installed. If pavers stretch your budget, a poured concrete patio costs less while still adds functional outdoor living space.
See Related: Backyard Patio Ideas to Wow Friends and Family
6. New Wooden Deck for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 89%
Joy Score: 9.8 out of 10
Average project: Building a 14×18-foot cedar wood deck with railing, a 4-foot wide open-riser stairs and a lattice-covered lower structure.
Building a wooden deck creates a versatile outdoor space. The natural warmth of wood adds charm to any setting, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re hosting a party under the stars or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee at sunrise, a deck enhances both everyday moments and special occasions.
The deck cost depends on size, wood type, and design. On average, it’s about $30 per square foot, ranging from $15 to $55 per square foot. The typical professionally installed deck costs around $7,320.
Building an 8×10-foot deck DIY usually costs about $1,000 for supplies, not including tools and permit fees.
7. Tree Upkeep for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 87%
Joy Score: 9.3 out of 10
Average project: Three fertilizer applications, regular spraying, tree trimming, pruning, and tree removal
Trees provide refreshing shade, a peaceful ambiance, and habitat for local wildlife. Well-maintained trees also boost your property’s appeal. According to the University of Washington, large trees can increase your home’s value by up to 15%.
Keep in mind: It takes years for trees to mature, so think of tree investment as a long-term strategy.
Mature trees are especially prized by buyers: They provide immediate shade, privacy, and visual character that a newly planted sapling can’t replicate for decades. Beyond aesthetics, mature trees can reduce heating fuel consumption by up to 25% through wind protection.
Proper maintenance, including trimming, feeding, and pest management, is crucial for tree health and safety. This care creates valuable living assets that enhance your property’s worth, and the older and healthier the tree, the more value it adds.
Professional tree trimming cost averages $430 to $640 per tree. A small job can cost as little as $78, while trimming a very large tree can reach $1,835.
8. Automated Irrigation System for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 83%
Joy Score: 9.4 out of 10
Average project: Irrigation system installation and management for a 5,000-square-foot lawn
Automated irrigation systems deliver smart water management with sensors that monitor soil and weather conditions, minimize waste, and reduce costs. Remote smartphone control makes adjustments easy.
For potential buyers, that kind of hands-off maintenance is a valuable selling point. It signals your beautiful yard takes care of itself.
A professionally installed sprinkler system costs on average about $0.90 to $1.70 per square foot, which puts a 5,000-square-foot yard at roughly $4,500 to $8,500. DIY installation saves on labor costs but can be time-consuming and error-prone. Hiring a professional guarantees a working system and often includes a warranty.
A periodic lawn sprinkler audit can help you catch inefficiencies before they waste water and money. “People tend to not know when they leak or break,” says Scott Culala, of The Lawn Cypress, in Gardner, Kansas.
See Related: Keep Your Grass Healthy with a Lawn Sprinkler Audit
9. Outdoor Lighting for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 59%
Joy Score: 10 out of 10
Average project: Install 20 LED lights and a typical 600W transformer.
Well-planned outdoor lighting balances beauty, safety, and accessibility. Improved visibility showcases your landscaping, prevents accidents, and deters intruders.
You have a wide variety of outdoor landscape lighting options — from in-ground lights on a timer to eco-friendly solar lights. One idea: Pair string lights with stylish pergola ideas or connect deck posts with strands of lights.
The average lighting cost falls between $100 and $1,500 for DIY projects and between $2,000 and $4,500 for professional installation.
10. Outdoor Fire Feature for Landscaping ROI
ROI: 56%
Joy Score: 9.7 out of 10
Average project: Build a 10-foot-wide flagstone patio with a gas burner and dry-stacked stone kits.
Imagine a cozy autumn evening around a fire pit — roasting s’mores, savoring the crisp fall air. Fire features extend outdoor enjoyment into cooler months and appeal to buyers seeking year-round outdoor living.
The cost of installing an outdoor fireplace varies based on design complexity and materials. Small-scale DIY kits can cost as little as $135, while high-end projects can cost $30,000 or more, according to current fireplace cost estimates.
Get Your Landscaping Done Right With LawnStarter
Updating your landscape for your own enjoyment or ahead of a home sale can feel overwhelming. That’s when it helps to call in the professionals.
LawnStarter connects you to local lawn mowing and landscaping pros who can keep your grass green and healthy, handle flower bed weeding, treat weeds, trim bushes, and take dozens of other outdoor tasks off your to-do list.
FAQs
Yes, complete all the landscaping improvements you afford before taking listing photos. Great curb appeal makes your listing stand out online and ensures your home makes the strongest possible first impression with every potential buyer.
Common mistakes that reduce home value:
• Overgrown trees and shrubs blocking windows or walkways
• High-maintenance designs that overwhelm buyers
• Poor drainage, leading to water issues
• Invasive plant species that are difficult to control
