THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, March 12, 1995 TAG: 9503110024
SECTION: HOME PAGE: G16 EDITION: FINAL
SERIES: WEEDER'S DIGEST
SOURCE: BY ROBERT STIFFLER, GARDENING COLUMNIST
LENGTH: Medium: 65 lines
``IF YOU THINK of your home as a work of art and the surrounding grounds as its frame, it's easy to see the value of landscaping,'' says landscape designer Doug Aurand of the Siska-Aurand firm in Norfolk. ``It's extremely important, especially if your're looking toward resale.'' he said.
Just as a frame should complement artwork, a yard should be landscaped in a manner that is compatible with the house. That requires a plan before you start. You can choose your favorite landscape architect or many nurseries have landscape designers on their staff who will work with you. You wouldn't want rustic timber planters with a French-style home or a formal English garden around a low rambling western ranch-style home.
Climate is another factor. Good landscaping can save money for homeowners if trees and hedges take the bite out of northern winds in winter. Just as important is shading out the hot sun of summer.
The value of landscaping is not measured only in dollars. There is also the therapeutic value of growing plants, building a trellis or paving a terrace. Well-planned landscaping provides privacy. And what equals the pleasure of strolling through a garden filled with masses of fragrant flowers?
While gardening engages us in the nation's No. 1 outdoor hobby, it also becomes a partnership with nature. It also can turn a house with little architectural interest into an attractive salable property. Realtors agree on this. Landscaping adds emotional appeal and can easily be the deciding factor between similar houses. Residential appraisers agree that superior landscaping is one of many variables contributing to home value. The greatest benefit may lie in the shorter time a property stays on the market.
``Resale value is especially important in an area so transient as Hampton Roads, where military people are often transferred regularly,'' said Thomas Tye, a real estate appraiser with offices in Virginia Beach. ``Such home buyers have little or no time for long-term projects such as establishing a hedge, or waiting for a tree to produce shade. They would much prefer to have an established yard.''
``First impressions are important,'' added Karen O'Brian of Rose and Krueth Realty's Great Neck office. ``If the front yard is not well-maintained, people will wonder about the rest of the house. We advise sellers to keep their lawn manicured, trim the shrubs, put fresh pine straw in flower beds, paint the mailbox and trim around sidewalks and driveways.''
A recent study of 288 home sales in Greenville, S.C., showed that homes with excellent landscaping may sell for 4 percent to 5 percent more than those with just good plantings, she noted.
``The study also found that owners of homes with poor landscapes could expect a sale price 8 to 10 percnet less than those of neighboring homes with good landscaping,'' O'Brian said.
Landscaping not only beautifies your home but is an important investment. Spring is the ideal time to add to your landscaping or completely re-do it. But start with a plan prepared by a professional. ILLUSTRATION: Photo
FILE PHOTO
Landscape architect Doug Aurand recommends herbs and arbors for a
Colonial feel to landscaping.
by CNB