DIY Network

Curb Upheaval: Value Boosts and Final Tally Curb Upheaval: Value Boosts and Final Tally From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-111

The Ekstrands went over their budget, but considering where their yard started and the major improvements they made for just $12,225, they really cleaned up, even making nearly $300. But their arid-friendly sod and plants, unique rock features, shade trees and the addition of a sprinkler system will build equity and savings for years to come.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Sweat Equity’s Adding Front Yard Value Tips:

• Dying grass is a clear sign that your soil may be tapped of nutrients and is also a real eyesore (figure A). By tilling and enriching their ground, the Ekstrands gave their new sod a proper mix of native soil and new soil, ensuring a green lawn and healthy plants (figure B).

• As much as homeowners like a well-kept lawn, they don’t want to drag the hose out to their yard every morning at 5 am. The addition of Doug and Jeanette’s new sprinkler and irrigation system instantly boosts their home’s market value in this established neighborhood (figure C) while keeping their new plantings green and their lawn low maintenance.

• Shade trees can cool a house considerably and save on air conditioning costs. While the Ekstrands had large established trees in the front, their grass was scorched on the side yard without protection from the hot sun. Planting shade trees here is not only a beautiful addition to the yard but as the trees grow they will shade the house too.

• Keeping with the style of the neighborhood is important to keep in mind when updating a landscape, because this is the first thing people will see! Doug and Jeanette’s choices for a rock-retaining wall and natural playground are tasteful and modern additions to their landscaping (figure D).

Final Tally:

Rock Wall = $3,495
Landscaping = $1,793
Irrigation System = $2,500
Fibar System = $1,600
Boulders = $665
Rentals = $954
Misc. = $1,218

TOTAL = $12,225

REALTOR’S ESTIMATED VALUE INCREASE = $12,500

TOTAL COST OF MATERIAL = $12,225

NET RETURN ON INVESTMENT = $275

RESOURCES :
Bobcat of the Rockies
Website: www.bobcatoftherockies.com

Common Ground Alliance
Call Before You Dig "Call 811"
Toll-free: 811
Website: www.call811.com/default.aspx

GUESTS :
Jason Yocum, ASLA
Landscape Architect
SunStone Design LLC
Denver, CO
Phone: 720-273-8488
E-mail: sunstonedesign@att.net

Cathy Weissberg
Fibar Systems
Website: www.fibar.com