One of the most important aspects to enhancing your property's value as you prepare to sell is curb appeal. Some studies suggest that a beautiful front yard can increase the home's selling price by up to 20 percent. The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) says that you can see a 100 percent return on investment when you spend 10 percent of the value on greenscaping.

That means if you're focused on making the most with your sale, effective landscaping and gardening are a must, especially from the front curb.

Here are six expert tips on creating a spring garden to help increase curb appeal for maximum value.

Gorgeous But Low-Maintenance Flowers

Reblooming hydrangeas are a stunning front-yard choice because the fluffy blooms provide a whimsical cottage feel in any neighborhood. There are many varieties to choose from, with different colors and sizes. But the great thing about hydrangeas is that they have a long flowering period, so they can provide your property with an elevated curb appeal for a good length of time as you seek buyers.

Plants That Are Perceived as High Value

There are several popular approaches to adding plants to your yard so it looks more expensive. Opting for lilies or peonies, for example, can signify to visitors that the home has been loved and cared for with effort. Any flower that requires special care can help with this. As well, highly perfumed flowers such as lilacs can offer a sensory experience as the scent lingers in the air during a home visit. Other less-showy ways to add a dash of fancy to the yard are sprucing up dark corners or lining paths with hostas, and planting textured shrubs like boxwood.

Healthy and Aesthetic Trees       

A healthy tree can provide a sense of maturity and warmth to a property, especially when it comes to newer builds and areas where there is not much greenery in the surroundings. An ornamental cherry tree is a great option for spring, as it provides luscious pink blooms. It will remain eye-catching all year. Another popular pic is a Japanese maple. Search for trees that will look lovely in summer, fall, and winter, too.

Lawn That is Well-Maintained

Don't forget about the basics. A lawn can make or break your curb appeal. In early spring, make sure you clean any winter damage and apply a fertilizer. Patch any areas that are balding or lacking uniformity to maintain balance. Mow frequently from May to June, keeping your grass to a three-inch height. This helps to encourage deep roots. Water it deeply but not so often, starting in July. 

Of course, a well-designed front garden will not be a one-size-fits-all situation. You should consider details like the home's size, shape and character to tailor your yard to the right aesthetic this spring.

After all, the best yards will not only be designed to accentuate the features of your home you plan to sell, but also to camouflage any less-appealing details. Still, these are some approaches to designing a front garden that will always perform well and get you maximum value when you place your property on the market.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Landscaping Before Selling

What landscaping updates make the biggest impact before selling?

The most effective updates are the ones buyers notice right away. A healthy lawn, fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, seasonal flowers, and clean, defined walkways can instantly make a home feel more cared for and inviting.

Should I choose low-maintenance plants before listing?

Yes. Low-maintenance landscaping appeals to buyers because it adds beauty without suggesting expensive or time-consuming upkeep. Hardy perennials, shrubs, and easy-care flowering plants are often smart choices.

How important is lawn care when preparing to sell?

A well-maintained lawn plays a major role in curb appeal. Patch bare spots, mow regularly, edge borders, and address winter damage so the property looks neat and well cared for from the street.

Can landscaping help improve less appealing exterior features?

Yes. Strategic landscaping can help draw attention to your home's strongest features while softening areas that may be less attractive. Well-placed plants, shrubs, and garden elements can create a more balanced overall look.

Courtney Edgar is a lifestyle journalist and copywriter based in Montreal. Her work has been published in HuffPost, Pop Sugar, Atlas Obscura, Explore Mag, and more.