Page 24 THE VILLADOM TIMES II & IV • April 13, 2011 ����������������������������� Think outside the box to improve home value your property, paths and walkways, trees, shrubs, and flowers that decorate the space. In a housing market where it’s still difficult to stand out, turning your attention and efforts to these areas might be just the thing that will attract buyers. It’s a simple concept: A more attractive house is a more valuable house. Since your yard and garden are often what buyers see first, it’s your best opportunity to set the tone as they consider your property and what they’re willing to pay for it. In fact, well-designed landscaping was shown to raise perceived residential property value by as much as 18 percent, in a study recently released by Swedish power tool maker Husqvarna. In terms of return on investment, those who maintain an attractive lawn and garden generally see a return of $1.80 per $1 spent. For those who want to improve their home’s value but can’t afford to hire contractors for major interior repairs, garden improvements can be an affordable alternative. Armed with the right tools, most homeowners are capable of tackling garden projects that can improve their property value, and at a relatively low cost. For example, simply edging your yard with a string trimmer helps create a clean, finished look outdoors. While many Americans are reluctant to spend much on their yards - some 65 percent of people spent less than $400 on it annually - keeping return on investment in mind can help you make better, smarter decisions. If you want to call in the pros, consider projects that are highly soughtafter, like in-ground irrigation systems. Those who are not sure where to start should ask their local nursery for inspiration and practical tips. Some of the topranked garden attributes for improving home value include: a well-maintained lawn; an inviting social area; stone paths and walkways; decorative trees, bushes, and shrubs; well-kept hedges; and nicely designed flower beds. Gardening season and the high real estate season coincide for a reason: Houses look their best surrounded by growing plants and blooming flowers. As the warmer months progress, remember that not only can investing in your garden give you a good return, it could also be the deciding factor in drawing a buyer to your property. 3-2-11 karen/janine HomeImpDecBanner6x 6 x .75” (ARA) For years, the conversation about strengthening your home’s value has revolved around interior projects. However, by keeping the focus inside, you might be ignoring one of the most effective ways to bring your property value up: the garden. When discussing home value, “garden” means more than just flower beds. It includes your lawn, gathering spaces on LORENZO LANDSCAPES creative landscapes of distinction Residential • Commercial • Landscape Restoration • Landscape Design & Installations • Walks, Patios & Retaining Walls • Property Maintenance • • • • Perennial & Woodland Gardens Grading & Backhoe Service Nursery Stock Seed or Sod Lawns Since 1974 • Fully Insured and DESIGN, L.L.C. NOW IS THE RIGHT TIME TO APPLY THESE SCOTT PRODUCTS Contains essential nutrients and a crabgrass prevention ingredient for a stronger, greener lawn. Kills grubs before they destroy your lawn. One application controls grubs all season long. 201-529-1960 NJ Lic # 13VH03272000 Office & Nursery At 111 Christie Ave. Mahwah, NJ Major Credit Cards Accepted • www.homehardwaresupply.com Mon-Wed 7:30-6 • Thurs & Fri 7:30-8 • Sat 8-5 OPEN SUNDAY 9-3 27 Franklin Tpke. • Waldwick • 201-652-5666 4-13-11 joan/janine LorenzoLandscapes3x3Color(4-13-11) 3 x 3” ������������������� ��������������������������