Spring brings a feeling of renewal, the sense of possibilities and growth. We’re seeing that in the real estate market in the Midwest. The latest data from the National Association of Realtors show pending home sales in the Midwest increased more than other regions, with home sales up 6.5 percent in February compared to January of this year, and up 19 percent from 2011.
If you are preparing your home for sale, or beginning your search to buy, also consider this growth–trees. As important as the air we breathe–in fact they provide a substantial amount of that air, absorbing tons of carbon dioxide and emitting clean oxygen–trees provide us with a spiritual sense of well being in addition to their job of improving air quality, conserving water, providing shade in the summer and as screens from the harsh winter winds.
And as a home seller or buyer, there are more reasons to value the trees on your property.
■ Home with excellent trees and landscaping can expect a sale price 6-7 percent higher than homes with substandard landscaping, according to a Clemson University study.
■ 98% of realtors believe that mature trees have a “strong or moderate impact” on the salability of homes listed for over $250,000 (83% believe the same for homes listed under $150,000), according to American Forests Magazine and Arbor National Mortgage.
■ Homeowners who landscape with trees can realize a 100-200 percent cost recovery, higher than bathrooms and kitchens, according to Money Magazine.
■ With summer coming on, try this on for size–the U. S. Department of Agriculture says the net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to 10 room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day.
What would our beautiful parks, streets, playgrounds and backyards be without trees? Not so beautiful or charming. Trees are vital to our health, wealth and happiness, believes State Forester Lisa Allen of the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Keep that in mind when you plan your landscaping, take the kids to the park or look for the perfect romantic picnic spot. Where else, but under a tree.
