If you’re looking to sell your Ohio home this spring, landscaping could be the secret weapon to maximize value and attract buyers fast. Studies show that homes with strong curb appeal sell for up to 7% more than those with neglected exteriors. In competitive markets like Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus, a well-maintained yard can be the difference between multiple offers and a property that lingers on the market.
But what landscaping projects actually increase home value? More importantly, how much should you invest before listing?
In this guide, I’ll walk you through proven, expert-backed landscaping strategies that will enhance curb appeal, increase resale value, and help your Ohio home sell faster.
Why Landscaping Matters When Selling a Home in Ohio
The Financial Impact of Curb Appeal
Real estate experts agree: curb appeal is one of the best home improvement investments before selling. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), landscaping upgrades yield an average 100%–200% return on investment (ROI)—often outpacing kitchen or bathroom remodels.
Additionally, a study by Michigan State University found that well-landscaped homes can sell for up to 12% more than similar homes with poor exterior appeal.
In Ohio, where buyers are sensitive to seasonal weather conditions, a home that looks fresh and well-kept in the spring can stand out in the market.
The Best Spring Landscaping Projects to Sell a Home Fast
1. Refresh Your Lawn for Maximum Appeal
A lush, green lawn signals a well-maintained property, making it one of the easiest ways to impress buyers.
Ohio-Specific Lawn Care Tips:
✔️ Aerate and seed in early spring to promote new grass growth.
✔️ Apply fertilizer and weed control for a rich, uniform color.
✔️ Keep grass trimmed to 2.5–3 inches for a polished look.
✔️ Edge along sidewalks and driveways for a clean, finished appearance.
💰 Cost vs. ROI:
- Investment: $100–$400 (for fertilizer, aeration, and seed)
- Potential ROI: Up to 200% return on investment
2. Add Fresh Mulch and Seasonal Flowers
Spring flowers add warmth and character, while mulch creates contrast and a finished look.
Best Ohio-Friendly Flowers for Curb Appeal:
🌷 Tulips and daffodils (easy to maintain, bloom early)
🌼 Pansies and marigolds (bright and budget-friendly)
🌿 Hostas and ornamental grasses (low-maintenance perennials)
🔹 Mulch Tip: Choose black or dark brown mulch to make your landscaping pop in listing photos.
💰 Cost vs. ROI:
- Investment: $50–$200
- Potential ROI: Up to 150% return
3. Trim Overgrown Bushes and Trees
Overgrown landscaping can make a home look abandoned and reduce natural light inside. Before listing:
✔️ Trim hedges to a neat, uniform shape.
✔️ Remove dead tree branches to improve safety.
✔️ Prune trees so they don’t block windows—this enhances interior brightness, a major selling point.
💰 Cost vs. ROI:
- Investment: $0 (DIY) or $200–$500 (professional)
- Potential ROI: Up to 200% return
4. Upgrade Your Walkway and Driveway
Cracked sidewalks and driveways send a red flag to buyers. Simple fixes can make a big impact:
✔️ Pressure wash driveways and sidewalks for a fresh, clean look.
✔️ Seal cracks in asphalt or concrete.
✔️ Line walkways with solar lights to create an upscale feel.
💰 Cost vs. ROI:
- Investment: $100–$500
- Potential ROI: Up to 150% return
5. Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces
Buyers love outdoor entertaining areas. If you have a patio, deck, or backyard, highlight its potential:
✔️ Power wash patios and decks for a like-new appearance.
✔️ Stage a small seating area to create a cozy vibe.
✔️ Add potted plants, string lights, or a fire pit for extra appeal.
💰 Cost vs. ROI:
- Investment: $200–$800
- Potential ROI: Up to 200% return
6. Install a New Mailbox or House Numbers
Small details matter. A sleek, modern mailbox and bold, stylish house numbers can instantly elevate curb appeal.
✔️ Choose an easy-to-read font for numbers.
✔️ Opt for a modern, well-maintained mailbox that complements your home’s style.
💰 Cost vs. ROI:
- Investment: $50–$150
- Potential ROI: Up to 125% return
Budget-Friendly DIY Landscaping Ideas for Ohio Sellers
If you’re on a tight budget, here are a few high-impact, low-cost upgrades:
💰 DIY flower beds using inexpensive perennials.
💰 Lay fresh mulch (less than $50 but makes a home look well-kept).
💰 Paint your front door in a modern color for instant impact.
💰 Use solar path lights for a high-end look without electrical work.
These small improvements go a long way in attracting buyers and increasing perceived value.
How Much Does Landscaping Increase Home Value in Ohio?
While landscaping ROI varies, research from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) shows that well-planned landscaping can add 10%–15% to a home’s value.
In Ohio, homes with excellent curb appeal tend to sell faster and closer to asking price than those that appear neglected.
Final Thoughts: Sell Your Ohio Home Fast with Smart Landscaping
Spring is the best time to enhance your home’s curb appeal before listing. With simple yet strategic landscaping upgrades, you can:
✔️ Increase your home’s resale value
✔️ Attract more buyers and multiple offers
✔️ Sell faster and for top dollar
📢 Want to sell your Ohio home hassle-free? Contact EZ Sell Homebuyers today for a fast, cash offer—no repairs, no commissions, no stress!
FAQ: Spring Landscaping Tips to Sell Your Ohio Home Fast and for Top Dollar
1. How does landscaping impact home value in Ohio?
Landscaping can increase a home’s resale value by 10%–15%, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). Homes with strong curb appeal often sell faster and closer to the asking price than homes with neglected exteriors.
2. What are the best landscaping projects to boost curb appeal before selling?
The most effective landscaping projects include:
✔️ Refreshing the lawn (seeding, fertilizing, mowing)
✔️ Adding fresh mulch and seasonal flowers
✔️ Trimming overgrown trees and shrubs
✔️ Upgrading the walkway and driveway (pressure washing, sealing cracks)
✔️ Enhancing outdoor living spaces (staging a patio, adding lights)
✔️ Installing a new mailbox and updated house numbers
3. How much should I spend on landscaping before selling my home?
You don’t need to overspend—a budget of $500 to $3,000 can make a significant difference. Studies show that investing in basic landscaping improvements can yield a 100%–200% return on investment (ROI).
4. What are the best flowers to plant in Ohio for curb appeal?
Some of the best Ohio-friendly spring flowers include:
🌷 Tulips and daffodils (bright, early bloomers)
🌼 Pansies and marigolds (colorful, hardy flowers)
🌿 Hostas and ornamental grasses (low-maintenance perennials)
5. How can I improve my home’s exterior on a tight budget?
If you’re selling on a budget, try these low-cost curb appeal boosters:
💰 Lay fresh mulch ($50–$100)
💰 DIY flower beds with inexpensive perennials ($25–$100)
💰 Paint the front door in a modern color ($50–$150)
💰 Install solar path lights for an upscale touch ($50–$200)
6. Should I hire a professional landscaper before selling my home?
If your yard needs major work (e.g., tree removal, irrigation repairs, extensive lawn restoration), hiring a professional may be worth it. However, most basic improvements—mowing, planting flowers, mulching, and pressure washing—can be done DIY to save money.
7. When is the best time to start landscaping before selling?
The ideal time to start landscaping upgrades is 4–6 weeks before listing your home. This gives your lawn time to grow, flowers time to bloom, and ensures all outdoor areas are market-ready.
8. How can I make my backyard more appealing to buyers?
To make your backyard a selling point:
✔️ Stage a seating area with a bistro set or patio furniture
✔️ Power wash patios, decks, and fences
✔️ Add potted plants and string lights for a cozy vibe
✔️ Consider a fire pit or outdoor rug to define the space
9. Does curb appeal really help homes sell faster?
Yes! Homes with strong curb appeal sell 7% faster on average than those with poor landscaping. First impressions matter—buyers often judge a home’s condition based on the exterior before stepping inside.
10. What’s the easiest way to boost curb appeal quickly?
For a fast curb appeal upgrade, focus on:
🚀 Mowing and edging the lawn
🚀 Adding fresh mulch for a clean look
🚀 Planting colorful flowers near the entrance
🚀 Pressure washing the driveway and walkway
🚀 Repainting the front door for a fresh, modern touch