Tips for landscaping your lakeside home

Landscaped lakefront homes are easier to sell. They stay in the market for a shorter time because their added value makes them irresistible.

Here are landscaping ideas that not only work with nature. They make your lakefront home sell at a better price – fast.

Well-kept lawns, trees, and gardens

A well-kept lawn is more inviting than a dirt yard with weeds. But red mulch surrounding brightly colored plants and flowers exudes elegance. Prune tree branches if they keep the home in shadow, thereby stunting curb appeal. A landscape horticulturist advises: “Arrange your plants in layers, with the shorter plants by walkways and paths and taller plants behind them. It’s also important to follow Firewise design principles, which means that you shouldn’t put flammable plants such as sagebrush or evergreens anywhere near your house.”

Perennial plants

These are easy to take care of because they need only one planting season to grow on their own. They don’t need heavy lifting. The good news is Wenatchee, WA has lots of native plants suited to lakeside environments. Low hedges prevent animals from hiding in your home, while allowing for those amazing views of the water.

Driveways and walkways

Concrete is a good material for driveways and walkways because it is durable and modern. Their bright white and gray appearance blends well with whatever paint color you choose for your lakefront home. Other kinds of concrete aggregate are partially eco-friendly since they are made of natural materials like limestone, sand, and crushed rocks. Earth-friendly concrete is recyclable, even if it usually lasts a lifetime when set and molded.

Gravel, cobblestone, and brick give driveways and walkways a stylish, eco-friendly touch. Curved walkways, in particular, have that artistic outdoor feel. Make the walkway appealing by adding wooden, dirt, or stone paving paths leading to the lake. Fill these paths with plants, foliage, and other vegetation for that cool, laidback, natural vibe.

Patios

Redwood patios are popular because they’re eco-friendly, durable, and resistant to shrinking and warping. Its natural beauty has a warm, homey feel. Stone, brick, and ceramic tiles, however, last longer than redwood and require less maintenance. Make your patio earth-friendly by adding shady trees. Create a leafy canopy over outdoor chairs and tables. Hang a hammock between trees or poles.

Fences and walls

High fences and walls provide privacy. But they can obstruct stunning lakeside views. Thus, fencing and/or walls should strike a balance between security and aesthetics. Keep trees at the edge of stone or brick fences or walls. This way, they provide comfort and relaxation while providing a view of that beautiful sunset and sparkling water.

Backyard pool

A backyard pool that complements the lake color is a good idea. Give the pool an earthy charm by surrounding it with stone landscaping. A geothermal system that sources energy from the ground can heat the home and the pool in winter, and cool it in summer. This great energy saver reduces power bills.

Natural fountain

A sunlight-powered one recirculates the water. Its naturally flowing water soothes and relaxes. You don’t have to worry about the water bill, because only minimum water is required. An indoor or outdoor bamboo fountain is another eco-friendly option.

Need more landscaping ideas that will help sell your lakefront home faster, and at a better price? We at Coldwell Banker Real Estate are happy to help. Call 509.888.8887 or contact us here.