From Family Handyman · Laurie Nichols · · 1m 10s
Yard Eyesores That Ruin Curb Appeal
Realtors reveal yard features that hurt home value and neighbor relations.
In brief
Realtors reveal yard features that hurt home value and neighbor relations. Realtors identify overgrown lawns, dead trees, clutter, and abandoned vehicles as yard eyesores that reduce curb appeal. Originally reported by Family Handyman.
Overgrown Lawns and Weeds
Unmowed grass and weeds make yards look neglected and can become eyesores.
“A yard that is basic is not a problem as long as it is well kept”
Dead Trees and Shrubs
Neglected trees and shrubs create a perception issue even if the rest of the yard is well-maintained.
“Dead shrubs may appear minor. However, they create a larger perception issue if the property owner is not maintaining something minor”
Clutter and Junk
Broken items like furniture and equipment pile up and create stress for neighbors.
“When you see clutter and junk in or around a home, it can create stress and uneasiness, even for neighbors”
Broken or Neglected Fences
Rotting fences drag down property value but old fences can be painted or repaired.
“A fence does not have to be new to look good. Old fences can be painted, and neglected and damaged fences can be repaired to make a good first impression”
Lawn Gnomes and Garden Statues
Too many garden ornaments create visual clutter and overwhelm the yard.
“The right amount of decorations can give personality to a yard and make it inviting, but too many can give a cluttered appearance”
Artificial Turf
Low-quality artificial turf creates uneven seams and a cheap aesthetic.
“One of the major problems is if it appears as if the grass has been glued to the ground”
Excessive Lawn Ornaments
Too many garden ornaments compete for focal points and create visual clutter.
“A property can lose appeal with an overabundance of various garden ornaments competing for focal points throughout the landscape”
Unattractive Garbage and Recycling Bins
Leaving bins in front of homes all week reduces curb appeal and looks messy.
“There’s nothing wrong with having garbage and recycling bins in the front yard during pick-up day, but leaving them lined up in front of the house all week doesn’t look great and robs the home of its curb appeal”
Abandoned Vehicles and Equipment
Broken down vehicles can become yard eyesores and impact home value.
“Broken down cars, ATVs or campers strewn in a yard qualify as a yard eyesore in most people’s eyes”
The short version
Realtors identify overgrown lawns, dead trees, clutter, and abandoned vehicles as yard eyesores that reduce curb appeal.
