We all know curb appeal matters. But did you know that bad landscaping choices can actually lower your home’s value by 5–15%?
Whether you’re prepping to sell or simply want to protect your investment, landscaping isn’t just about looks — it directly impacts buyer perception, property function, and long-term maintenance costs.
At BNB, we’ve walked hundreds of yards where well-meaning homeowners made simple mistakes that turned into costly regrets. Let’s walk through the most common landscaping mistakes to avoid, and how to fix them before they hurt your resale value.
Mistake 1: Overgrown or Neglected Lawns
A patchy, weed-choked lawn is one of the first red flags for buyers, and it’s also the easiest to fix with some consistent care or a smart alternative.
Why It Hurts:
- Signals poor maintenance elsewhere
- Feels like work before buyers even step inside
- Diminishes your home’s overall curb appeal
What to Do Instead:
- Mow, edge, and fertilize regularly in growing season
- Water deeply, not frequently
- Consider drought-tolerant grass blends or artificial turf if upkeep is a challenge
BNB Tip: A lawn doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be tidy and healthy-looking. Trim the edges and clear debris for an instant lift.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Native Climate Needs
Those tropical palms may look great in Florida… but here in Colorado or other semi-arid regions? They’ll wither and drag your budget down with them.
Why It Hurts:
- Plants that don’t match your zone often die quickly
- Requires excessive watering, fertilizers, or pest control
- Looks unnatural and mismatched with the local landscape
What to Do Instead:
- Use native or drought-tolerant plants like blue grama grass, yarrow, or Russian sage
- Group plants by water needs (aka hydrozoning)
- Align with xeriscaping principles to conserve water
BNB Tip: Native landscapes now increase buyer appeal, especially with rising water bills and more eco-conscious buyers.
Mistake 3: Poor Drainage or Erosion Control
Looks aren’t everything. If your landscaping sends water toward your foundation, or pools in awkward spots, it’s more than an eyesore. It’s a structural risk.
Why It Hurts:
- Risk of foundation damage
- Creates muddy, unusable yard space
- Signals underlying property neglect to inspectors and buyers
What to Do Instead:
- Grade your yard away from the home
- Install French drains or gravel swales if needed
- Use permeable pavers to reduce runoff
- Add dry creek beds or rain gardens for style and function
BNB Tip: If your gutters or downspouts drain near plant beds, extend them underground to redirect water where it’s needed most.
Mistake 4: Clashing Plant Palettes
Throwing in every flower from the garden center may feel creative, but it’s one of the most common bad landscaping examples we see.
Why It Hurts:
- Creates visual chaos, especially in small yards
- Can look messy or disorganized to buyers
- Often results in uneven watering and maintenance
What to Do Instead:
- Pick 2–3 core colors and repeat them across your yard
- Mix textures (grasses, shrubs, flowers) instead of colors
- Anchor beds with evergreens for year-round structure
BNB Tip: Create “visual zones” in the yard, with consistency in each – think symmetry in front beds, layered height in backyards.
Mistake 5: DIY Hardscape Hazards
We’ve seen it all – uneven pavers, crumbling steps, unstable retaining walls. A poorly executed patio or walkway is worse than no upgrade at all.
Why It Hurts:
- Unsafe for kids, pets, or guests
- Looks cheap and can crack under pressure (literally)
- Signals potential code violations
What to Do Instead:
- Use pros for concrete, paver, or stonework, especially near entrances
- Level surfaces and ensure proper drainage underneath
- Consider upgrades like decorative concrete or border edging for a polished look
BNB Tip: You don’t need to tear it all out. Sometimes resurfacing or re-leveling a DIY patio can bring it back to life.
Mistake 6: No Lighting or Path Definition
The most beautiful yard in the world fades into the background at night without lighting, and leaves guests (or buyers) stumbling in the dark.
Why It Hurts:
- Reduces nighttime appeal and safety
- Makes the home feel uninviting after sunset
- Leaves outdoor features (plants, patios) underutilized
What to Do Instead:
- Install solar or low-voltage path lights
- Highlight key features: trees, entryways, steps, pergolas
- Add motion sensors for security (and energy savings)
BNB Tip: Lighting is one of the most cost-effective ways to add drama and luxury without major renovation.
Mistake 7: Trees Too Close to the House
Big trees can be beautiful, but if they’re too close to the house, they’re a liability.
Why It Hurts:
- Roots can damage foundations and underground pipes
- Overhanging limbs pose storm hazards
- Blocks light and makes the interior feel darker
What to Do Instead:
- Keep large trees at least 10–20 feet from the foundation
- Trim regularly to protect siding and roofing
- Choose small ornamental trees like redbud or dogwood for tight spaces
BNB Tip: Before planting, ask: “How big will this tree be in 10 years?” A sapling today could be a problem tomorrow.
Quick Fixes from the Pros at BNB
If any of these landscaping issues sound familiar, don’t worry. Most are fixable, and the right improvements can boost your property value fast.
Here’s what we help homeowners do:
- Design climate-smart planting plans
- Fix drainage, grading, or turf issues
- Install hardscape and lighting that’s built to last
- Prepare yards for spring sales listing
- Replace “problem” areas with easy-maintenance upgrades
Our team specializes in landscaping for home value, whether you’re planning to sell or just want a yard that works better for your family.
Final Thoughts: Curb Appeal Is an Investment
Poor landscaping doesn’t just look bad – it can signal deeper problems and push potential buyers away.
The good news? With the right fixes, your yard can become a powerful asset. Whether it’s a few plant swaps or a full front yard makeover, small changes can lead to a big impact on your home’s value.
Ready to audit your landscape?
Book a FREE curb appeal consultation with BNB »
We’ll walk your property, spot the mistakes, and build a plan to elevate your home – fast.
