When most homeowners think about boosting property value, they picture kitchen renovations, fresh paint, or upgraded landscaping. But one element is often overlooked—yet it can significantly sway your home’s appraisal: the health of your trees.
At Ahlum & Arbor, we’ve seen firsthand how well-maintained trees can elevate not just your landscape, but your entire property’s value. Whether you’re thinking of selling or simply safeguarding your investment, understanding how trees affect property value is essential.
Our Hilliard Branch Manager Ron Dreyfuss says trees can be valuable for a home’s resale value in a few different ways. “First, they provide a good first impression for the property,” he says. “Having a large, healthy tree shows potential buyers that you’ve taken pride in maintaining your landscape and this can suggest that you’ve taken that same pride in maintaining the house as well.”
Trees as Long-Term Assets
Healthy, mature trees are more than just background scenery—they’re high-value assets. According to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, a single mature tree can add between $1,000 and $10,000 to a property’s value, depending on size, species, location, and overall condition.
Appraisers take note of these factors. They recognize that trees provide curb appeal, energy efficiency, and even noise reduction—all things potential buyers appreciate. But just as healthy trees can add value, neglected or diseased ones can quickly detract from it. This is why tree maintenance and home appraisal go hand-in-hand.
Curb Appeal Starts with Canopy Appeal
First impressions matter. Appraisers typically assess the property’s exterior before stepping inside. That means your trees—especially those framing the driveway or visible from the street—play a key role in setting the tone.
Well-pruned, healthy trees signal care and consistency. They suggest that the homeowner has maintained the property, not just the landscape. On the other hand, trees with dead limbs, overcrowded canopies, or obvious signs of disease can be red flags. They may even raise questions about potential hazards or deferred maintenance.
Tree pruning before selling a home not only boosts aesthetic value but also reassures buyers and appraisers alike that your property is well cared for.
The Hidden Costs of Neglected Trees
Unhealthy trees aren’t just unsightly—they can pose real risks. Dead branches or structurally compromised trees may fall during storms, causing damage to your home or nearby structures. Appraisers may factor in the cost of tree removal, pruning, or potential liability when determining your home’s value.
Additionally, invasive pests like emerald ash borer or fungal diseases like oak wilt can spread quickly and become expensive to manage. If these issues are present during appraisal, it could impact both the property’s valuation and buyer confidence.
Trees and Energy Efficiency
According to Dreyfus, mature shade trees can reduce energy bills by as much as 30% during hot summer months,and in the winter, mature trees can act as a wind break which can also help with energy costs.
Strategically placed trees help regulate temperature inside the home, easing the load on HVAC systems. Appraisers often recognize this benefit—especially in regions with high cooling costs—when calculating a home’s value.
But here’s the catch: those benefits depend on the tree’s health. A dying shade tree isn’t providing much energy savings, and could instead become a liability if it needs to be removed.
Professional Tree Care Shows
When a certified arborist regularly maintains your trees, the results speak for themselves. Proper pruning, soil care, pest management, and structural assessments ensure your trees are safe, healthy, and thriving.
If you’re planning for a home appraisal, having a certified arborist report for appraisal on file—even a simple evaluation—can reinforce your home’s value. It’s a sign to appraisers and buyers alike that you’ve taken a proactive approach to care and preservation.
Preparing for Appraisal: Tree Tips
Here are a few simple steps to make sure your trees are helping—not hurting—your home’s appraisal:
Schedule A Tree Health Assessment
A professional arborist can identify any hidden issues early. At Ahlum & Arbor, we provide clear, honest evaluations and solutions tailored to your property’s unique ecosystem. A thorough tree inspection for homeowners can reveal risks or opportunities you might not have considered.
Prune for Safety and Shape
Remove dead or hazardous limbs, especially those near the house or power lines. A clean, balanced canopy improves both aesthetics and safety.
Address Pests and Disease Promptly
Don’t wait until damage is widespread. Catching issues early can save your trees—and your wallet—from costly treatments or removals down the road.
Keep the Roots Happy
Compacted soil, poor drainage, and lawnmower injuries all stress root systems. Healthy roots mean a healthy tree. We can recommend simple soil care practices or aeration if needed.
Document Your Tree Care
If you’ve invested in professional tree care, keep a record. Providing this during appraisal demonstrates a pattern of responsible maintenance.
Your Trees Are Talking—What Are They Saying About Your Property?
While many homeowners understand that trees add visual charm, few recognize the strategic impact of healthy tree systems on long-term property performance. It’s not just about having trees—it’s about having the right trees, in the right condition, at the right time.
For example, appraisers aren’t only looking at aesthetics; they also consider structural integrity, proximity to the home, and even whether tree species are prone to disease. These subtle factors can influence perceived risk and maintenance cost, two things that can lower a home’s appraisal even if everything else looks picture-perfect.
Moreover, one common question among homeowners is whether investing in tree care truly pays off when selling. The answer lies in buyer psychology. Prospective buyers often interpret a healthy landscape as a sign of overall diligence. This subconscious signal—of a property that’s been thoughtfully maintained—can increase buyer confidence and even accelerate the sales cycle.
In contrast, poorly maintained trees or visible neglect might cause appraisers to flag concerns, or worse, prompt buyers to walk away. By proactively managing tree health and documenting that care, you’re not just protecting your investment—you’re amplifying
At Ahlum & Arbor, we believe your trees tell a story. A healthy landscape is a living, growing reflection of the care you put into your home. Whether you’re planning to sell or simply want to boost your curb appeal, investing in tree health is one of the smartest, most natural ways to increase value.
Let’s keep your trees thriving—and your home looking its best for years to come. Schedule an evaluation today.
