Does a Fence Add to Property Value? Definitely, maybe.
In 1914, the American poet, Robert Frost, wrote in Mending Wall, “Good fences make good neighbors.” The narrator in the poem disagreed, saying, “Something there is that doesn’t love a wall.”
Whether or not to build a fence remains an important issue for today’s homeowner.
Is building a fence always the best answer for a homeowner? And does a fence add to property value when you’re selling your home?
Benefits of a Home Fence
A fence can serve many purposes, including:
- – Improved privacy—Homeowners have a patio they want to make private. Or, they live on a busy road, and want to create a secluded atmosphere.
- – Better curb appeal—A well-maintained fence that complements your home’s architectural style will enhance the curb appeal of your home.
- – Fencing-in a pool—Some municipalities make it mandatory that a pool is fully fenced in. Municipalities make it mandatory to fully fence in a pool to keep small children and animals safe, and to keep unauthorized people away. Also, most home insurance companies will demand that a pool is fully fenced-in before they will offer homeowner’s insurance.
- – Providing Security—Many parents feel better if a fence protects their young children. A fence will help keep away unwanted visitors and keep active children from running into the street.
- – Providing Pet Safety—Dog lover’s want the best for their pets and will go to great lengths to make them happy. What dog wouldn’t enjoy having the run of the property?
Not All Fences Are Created Equal
If you decide to install or fix an existing fence, be aware that the value added to your property will depend on several factors that include:
- – The fence’s material
- – the aesthetic appeal of the fence
- – How well the fence blends with the home’s architectural style
- – The current condition of the fence
- – The age of the fence
- – How well the fence fits in with the neighborhood’s character
How Fences Affect Property Value
For top home value, it’s important that fences are well-maintained and have not fallen into disrepair. A fence is like a person’s calling card; it’s the first thing that someone notices about your home—and your home only has one time to make a first impression.
A poorly maintained or downright ugly fence will only detract from your home’s street appeal, and lower the property value. If you are selling, your home potential home buyers will be mentally envisioning having the unsightly fence torn down shortly after closing. And, potential home buyers will surely deduct whatever they think the cost will be from their offering price.
So if you are planning on putting your home on the market, and your fence is unsightly or in disrepair, either tear the fence down or fix it.
However, a well-maintained fence that enhances the property and fits in with the neighborhood will add to the property’s value.
Don’t Build The Wrong Fence
If you are thinking of adding a fence to your property, there are some things you should know before you proceed.
- – Don’t fence-in your property just to make your home stand out. If no other homes in the area have a fence, you don’t want yours to be known as “the house with the fence.” There are definitely better ways to boost your curb appeal.
- – If a neighborhood or association encourages home owners to fence in their property, you should probably comply if you are putting your house on the market soon. Without a fence, prospective buyers will wonder if you have been skimping on home investments, and will worry about what else in the home is sub-par. Also, prospective buyers may think that as new owners, they will need to install a fence. This will result in a lower offer.
- – Be sure that the new fence compliments the architecture of your home. Meet with a fencing contractor to see which styles they recommend. Having the wrong style fence will detract from your home’s curb appeal and reduce your home value.
- – Keep your fence style in line with other fences in the neighborhood. For example, if all the fences in the neighborhood are white picket fences, don’t make yours an elaborate, tall metal fence. It will be jarring to the eye and make your home stand out in a bad way.
Personal Taste Matters
Finally, as in Robert Frost’s poem, thoughts about fences are a personal matter. For some people, a fence around a home represents warmth, security and privacy. They envision their children and pets gleefully playing on a sunny afternoon. However, other people may see a fence and wonder, “Hmmm. Is there a reason this home needs a fence? Is this a dangerous neighborhood?”
Follow These Foolproof Fence Guidelines
For fencing and home value, the smart real estate guidelines are simple:
- – If your home has a fence, keep it well-maintained; if it’s ugly, tear it down.
- – If you want to add a fence, add one that fits the architecture of the house and your neighborhood.
- – If you don’t have a fence, don’t feel you need to add one just to increase property value; not all buyers like fences.
Realtors agree that a good-looking fence that’s well suited to your home’s architecture and neighborhood, will add to your home’s property value. So, if you want a fence to enhance your current home or lifestyle, by all means go for it!