Where the trees are planted, what kind of trees you choose, and how big they are can be overwhelming to homeowners. What happens if you already have a property full of mature trees? We got the answer straight from the real estate experts! Here are the pros and cons of large plantings for home sellers
Pros: Trees provide insulation
Trees can insulate your home from temperature extremes during the peak summer and winter months. Well-located trees can reduce your home's air conditioning costs and reduce fuel consumption in windy areas.
"Trees," says Martin Orefice, CEO of Rent to Own Labs in Orlando, Florida, "are very good for your energy bills." Their shade prevents the sun from shining directly on your house, making your yard tolerable even on hot days. It also protects the house from high winds."
Disadvantages: Maintenance and conflicts with neighbors
Most homeowners with trees can't leave them alone. The average cost to trim a tree in the U.S. is between $200 and $760.
"The maintenance needs of properties with trees vary depending on the species, size and health of the tree," says Hubert Miles, a certified home inspection specialist and owner of Patriot Home Inspections in Johnsonville, S.C. "The maintenance needs of properties with trees vary depending on the species, size and health of the tree." Native tree species require less maintenance and tend to be healthier because they are adapted to the climate, while tropical trees planted in cooler climates require more maintenance."
You also have to consider being a good neighbor.
"Buyers may be more concerned about trees encroaching on their neighbors' yards, mainly because of property damage claims," Miles says." In many cases, the responsibility falls on the property owner where the tree is located. There can be significant expense in cutting down large tree limbs that encroach on a neighbor's home."
Pros: Trees can promote physical and mental health
Being around trees is also good for your mental and physical health. Numerous studies have shown that being around trees can boost immunity, reduce stress, improve mood, and help people (even children with ADHD) focus.
"Trees have many psychological and aesthetic benefits," Orefice says." Studies have found that simply seeing greenery outside a window can provide measurable physical and mental health benefits, including lower heart rate and breathing."
Disadvantages: foundation problems, gutter dumping, storm damage
If mature trees are planted too close to the house, their roots get under the house or into underground pipes, costing current and future homeowners. A sinking or unstable foundation will jeopardize the entire home, with the national average cost of repair being about $4,500. Severe foundation and plumbing damage can cost you up to $25,000.
"Tree roots can pose a risk to foundations and pipes," Myers says." But not all tree species have invasive root systems. A good rule of thumb is to plant large trees 10 feet away from house foundations, underground pipes and septic tanks."
Large trees too close to the house can also dump debris in your gutters, which leads to more expensive and frequent gutter cleaning, says Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal, a Nashville, Tennessee-based landscaping firm.
"Large trees close to the house also pose a risk of branches falling on the house during storms," Clayton added.
Benefits: Trees reduce noise pollution and increase privacy
Trees are sort of like nature's noise-cancelling headphones and curtains all rolled into one. In a growing world, a study by the U.S. Department of Energy reports that trees can reduce noise levels by up to 50 percent by acting as noise barriers.
Disadvantages: Allergies and sensitivities
Certain trees are more likely to bring on people's allergies and environmental sensitivities and should be avoided.
"Pollen, sap and other allergenic components can trigger discomfort and health problems in people with allergies," says Mike Qiu, owner of Good as Sold Home Buyers in Kirkland, Wash." It can be serious enough to affect a buyer's decision-making process.
Bottom line: Anyone considering planting a new tree should consult a professional. in addition to considering maintenance requirements, potential risks and impact on landscaping and natural light, they should also ask about allergy mitigation, Qiu says.
What to do if you're selling a house with lots of trees
If you're selling your home now and you have trees, you'll want to be open and honest with your homebuyers.
The first step is to understand the issues you are dealing with.
"Make sure all the trees are healthy and well-maintained before you list your property," says Manny Sahmbi, director of Happy 2 Move." This may involve hiring a professional arborist to trim overgrown branches and check for signs of disease or insect damage. If you have a lot of trees, it may be worth investing in a tree survey. This will provide detailed information about the species, age, health and potential future growth of the tree. This can be especially valuable if you have large or potentially problematic trees."
During the discovery process, questions may arise. If they do, be realistic.
"If you become aware of potential problems, such as roots intruding into downspouts or an unstable tilt of the tree, disclose those problems to potential buyers," Sahmbi says." Honesty can prevent potential legal problems."
Finally, talk to your real estate agent.
"They know the market and advise you on how to best present your trees while also addressing the concerns of potential buyers," he adds.