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The Importance of Curb Appeal for Split-Level Investment Properties

August 25th, 2021 |

When it comes to curb appeal, split-level properties can be challenging. Sloping yards and multiple levels require specialized landscaping techniques. As an investment property owner, you want to maximize your ROI. From erosion control to strategic plantings, implementing the right split-level home landscaping ideas can make your property more marketable and improve ROI.

Erosion Control and Slope Stabilization

It may not sound glamorous, but erosion control should be your first priority. Split-level homes often have sloping yards that need stabilization. Rainwater flows down the slopes and can result in soil erosion, foundation damage, wet basement and other problems. Plants with deep, extensive root systems slow the speed of flowing water and help prevent erosion. Choose stabilizing grasses, ground covers and low-growing shrubs such as

  • Fescue
  • Muhly grass
  • Creeping juniper
  • Creeping phlox
  • Cotoneaster

Slopes that are greater than 3:1 will need more than plants for stabilization. If the slope is steep enough, you may need to install some hardscape, such as

  • Retaining walls
  • Drainpipe 
  • Boulders
  • Stairs

Erosion control takes time and effort. However, it can save you money in the long run by preventing water damage to your investment property. 

Balance the Levels

One way to add curb appeal is to balance the appearance of the different levels. Consider planting a 20- to 30-foot tree behind the shorter section of the home or at each corner of the home. You can choose from many trees that thrive in the Boston area, such as 

  • Paperbark maple
  • American hornbeam
  • Kousa dogwood
  • American smoketree

A specimen plant can add a balancing focal point to the end of the driveway. Attractive shrubs that add texture and color to the landscape include

  • Panicle hydrangea 
  • Beautybush
  • Smoke bush
  • Purple beautyberry  

Spruce Up the Front Entry

With creative use of space and plantings, you can transform the front entry from flat and boring to intimate and inviting. Many shrubs and hedges make excellent privacy screens, while a trellis can hold flowering vines. Plants that can spruce up the front entry include 

  • Boxwood shrubs
  • Privet hedges
  • Clematis vine
  • Climbing rose

Add a couple of chairs and you have a tranquil space that looks charming from the street. 

Smooth Transition Between Levels

You can add curb appeal by smoothing out the transition between levels. For example, a retaining wall can look harsh or abrupt. You can soften that look by planting cascading vines in beds on top of the walls. Great choices include 

  • Sweet potato vine
  • English ivy
  • Wave petunia
  • Trailing lobelia

Yard Maintenance

You can’t beat good old-fashioned yard maintenance for improving curb appeal. Picture your split-level property through the eyes of a potential buyer or renter. Nothing makes a better statement than a neat, cared-for yard and entry. The following tasks should be done on a regular basis:

  • Rake leaves
  • Remove dead plant debris
  • Prune shrubs and trees
  • Mow lawn
  • Weed planting beds

Experienced General Contractors  

For over a decade, investment property owners in the Boston area have relied on RH Blanchard for general contracting services. We combine the skills and experience needed to manage large and small projects alike. To learn more about split-level home landscaping ideas and other tips for investment properties, contact us today for a free consultation.