Landscaping mistakes that can make buyers walk away
Curb appeal sells homes, and landscaping is the first impression. While a beautiful yard draws buyers in, bad landscaping choices can have the opposite effect. In fact, some can turn people off before they even step inside. If you’re thinking about selling—or just don’t want to tank your home’s value—here are the mistakes that make buyers hesitate.
Overgrown Shrubs and Trees
Letting greenery take over makes a home look neglected. Buyers assume if the outside isn’t maintained, the inside might not be either. Overgrown shrubs hide windows and make the house feel dark and unwelcoming. Regular pruning keeps things tidy and lets buyers actually see the home they’re considering.
Too Much Concrete
Paving over everything might seem low-maintenance, but it leaves no room for life or character. Large areas of concrete feel harsh and hot, and they often signal drainage problems. Buyers usually prefer a balance of grass, beds, and hardscaping—not a yard that looks like a parking lot.
Neglected Lawns
Brown patches, weeds, and uneven mowing make a house look like it’s been abandoned. A lawn doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should look cared for. Buyers see a patchy lawn as extra work, and that can kill the deal before they even see the inside.
Too Many Yard Decorations
A few accents are fine, but dozens of gnomes, statues, or mismatched ornaments scream clutter. Buyers want to imagine themselves in the space, not feel overwhelmed by someone else’s personal style. Keep it neutral and minimal so the focus stays on the house itself.
Blocking the Entryway
Curb appeal depends on a clear, inviting path to the door. We’ve all seen houses where shrubs, trees, or cluttered pots practically block the entry. Buyers notice that right away, and it leaves the impression of poor planning. Keeping the entry open and accessible makes a huge difference.
Neglected Fences
A broken or leaning fence is one of the first things people see, and it raises red flags about overall upkeep. Buyers often assume fixing it will be a hassle and cost more than it does. A quick repair or a fresh coat of paint can completely change that impression.
Overly Complicated Gardens
While some people love elaborate gardens, many buyers see them as too much work. A complicated setup with dozens of plants can look overwhelming instead of charming. Sticking to easy-care landscaping makes the yard feel manageable and attractive to more people.
Ignoring Drainage Issues
Standing water, eroded areas, or poorly graded yards are big red flags. Buyers don’t just see a soggy spot—they see dollar signs for future fixes. Proper grading, French drains, or even simple gutter extensions can help, and they make a yard far more appealing.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
