Way back in 1987, actor Mr. T made headlines for the infamous “Lake Forest Chainsaw Massacre,” where he cut down more than 100 trees on his property in the posh Chicago suburb, which had previously earned the moniker “Tree City, USA” from the National Arbor Day Foundation.
The outrage over the loss of the trees and the desecration of a Jens Jensen-designed landscape spurred the city to adopt a tree preservation ordinance that requires property owners to get a permit to remove trees and to plant replacement trees under certain circumstances and in delicate areas, like atop bluffs and in ravines.
Home buyers take trees seriously, and sellers should understand the ways well-maintained trees affect home resale value.
The Majesty of Mature Trees
Mature trees are the crowning glory of a property. They provide shade, privacy, and aesthetic appeal, all of which can increase a home’s value. According to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, a mature tree can add $1,000 to $10,000 to the value of your home.
A 2021 Arbor Day study found that yard trees can add 10–20 percent to a home’s resale value. Plus, street trees near or in front of a Portland, OR home could add $8,870 to the price, as well as reduce the time on the market.
The Danger of Overhanging Branches
While trees can add value to your property, sick or poorly maintained trees can devalue it. Overhanging branches can pose a risk of falling onto your home, especially during storms or periods of windy weather. They can damage roofing, windows, and other structures on your property, leading to costly repairs. Potential homebuyers may see these trees as liabilities and could avoid purchasing your home. Trimming overhanging branches can mitigate these risks and ensure your trees continue to enhance, rather than detract from, your home’s value.
The Perils of Trimming Trees Yourself
You might be tempted to save money by trimming or removing trees yourself. However, doing this can have serious consequences. Improper trimming can damage the health of the tree and negatively affect its aesthetic appeal.
Moreover, tree trimming and removal can be dangerous without the proper equipment and training. Hiring professional arborists to maintain your trees can ensure they remain healthy and beautiful, thereby maintaining or even increasing your home’s resale value.
The state of the trees on your property can greatly affect its resale value. Well-maintained trees can enhance a home’s aesthetic appeal, provide practical benefits like shade and privacy, and increase the property’s worth. On the other hand, poorly maintained trees can pose risks and liabilities that detract from a home’s value.
Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or far in the future, it pays to invest in professional tree care services so your trees continue to add value to your property. Healthy trees are investments in your home’s future worth.
