Many homeowners stepping into 2026 are wondering if landscaping truly adds value to a home. The answer is yes. According to the National Association of Realtors Remodeling Impact Report, well-planned outdoor improvements can deliver strong returns and significantly enhance a home’s resale value.
Key Takeaways:
- Landscaping can raise home value and improve curb appeal.
- Patios, gardens, and seating areas make outdoor spaces functional and inviting.
- Good landscaping adds shade, safety, and low-maintenance benefits.
- Buyers want simple, usable yards that feel like part of the home.
Outdoor living has become a top priority for buyers. Spaces like patios, seating areas, shade features, and inviting green zones make a home feel larger, more functional, and more enjoyable year-round. Investing in your outdoor living areas not only boosts curb appeal but also creates a relaxing space your family can use every day. It is one of the most innovative and most rewarding upgrades you can make.
Why Landscaping Raises Home Value
Landscaping is one of the first things buyers notice about a home. Studies show that high-quality landscaping can significantly boost property value. In a survey of homes in Lubbock, Texas, well-maintained landscaping increased home value by up to 10.8%. At the same time, national data suggest that upgrading from average to excellent landscaping can raise a home’s value by 10–12%. Every dollar spent on landscaping can return a good value. A neat yard and well-kept plants show the house is cared for and make it more appealing to buyers.
Curb Appeal Still Matters in 2026
Curb appeal plays a significant role in a buyer’s decision. A tidy, well-kept yard gives a strong first impression. Simple updates like mowing, trimming, and adding shrubs often pay off at resale, while a neglected yard can lower perceived value and raise concerns about the home.
The Growing Value of the Backyard
Today, backyards are no longer just extra space. They have become essential living areas. In 2026, outdoor living is a significant trend. Buyers want functional, relaxing spaces where they can cook, entertain, or unwind. Features such as patios, shaded areas, outdoor kitchens, pools, garden beds, fire pits, and comfortable seating make a home feel larger and more inviting.
A well-designed backyard adds usable space and often becomes the favorite part of the home. When buyers see a backyard ready to enjoy, they can better recognize the property’s full value.
Outdoor Spaces Add Great Value
Making your outdoor area functional can help your home look better and feel bigger. Adding things like a small outdoor kitchen, a patio, or neat plants makes the yard more fun to use. These updates help the home look beautiful from the outside and make it even more appealing to buyers.
Practical Benefits That Add Long-Term Value
Landscaping does more than look good. Trees provide shade, plants prevent erosion, and proper layout improves drainage and protects foundations. Pathways and lighting increase safety, and thoughtful landscaping reduces maintenance costs and adds long-term value to your home.
What Buyers Want in 2026
Homebuyers want simple, practical, and low-maintenance outdoor spaces. Key features include healthy lawns, drought-resistant plants, easy-care shrubs, outdoor kitchens or patios, fire pits or shaded seating, and privacy through clever planting. They prefer yards that feel like a natural extension of the home.
Why Landscaping Matters More Than Ever
With more people working from home and spending time outdoors, yards have become a vital part of daily life. A well-designed landscape offers a peaceful place to relax, enjoy nature, and spend quality time with family. Gardening, hosting friends, grilling, or sitting by a fire feature make everyday life better and support mental well-being.
A Smart Investment for 2026
Landscaping is one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to increase a home’s value. The 2024 NAR Remodeling Impact Report shows that landscaping provides excellent financial returns while also adding enjoyment to your home. You can enjoy a beautiful yard now and recoup the value when you sell.
Bring Your Dream Outdoor Space to Life
Professional landscapers combine design and construction skills to create functional outdoor spaces. They handle plant selection, drainage, and upgrades, turning any yard into a beautiful extension of your home.
If you are ready to improve your home in 2026 and create an outdoor space that fits your lifestyle, EcoWorks Pool and Outdoors can help bring your vision to life.
Our Service Area:
Fort Bend County: Katy, Fulshear, Cinco Ranch, Richmond
Harris County: Barker, Bear Creek, Copperfield, Houston, Addicks
Waller County: Brookshire, Pattison
About the Author
Hans Joakim Cederlund
Co-Owner, EcoWorks Pools & Outdoors Chair & President, Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce – Texas
Hans Joakim Cederlund is the co-owner of EcoWorks Pools & Outdoors, a premier Texas-based company specializing in complete backyard transformations—from custom-designed pools to luxurious outdoor kitchens and living spaces. With over two decades of executive leadership in the real estate and construction sectors, Hans brings a wealth of knowledge, vision, and hands-on expertise to every project.
Hans holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Economics from IHM Business School, and is currently serving as the Chair and President of the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce – Texas, a role he’s held since 2016. His leadership and strategic insight have helped bridge business and cultural connections across continents.
At EcoWorks, Hans champions customer satisfaction and long-term value, ensuring every outdoor space not only meets but exceeds expectations. His blog contributions reflect his commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and the transformative power of outdoor living.