How much does landscaping affect an appraisal on a BRRR?

Question

We're rehabbing a SFR in far northern CA (Shasta Lake City, Zone 9). It's a total gut rehab so everything about the property is new and very nice but solid middle class - nothing extravagant. We had to pull out every bit of "landscaping" that existed because it was a jungle - vines growing through the windows and weeds covering all kinds of hazards around the house. So now it's basically barren red clay dirt. Of course we want to get maximum $ from the appraisal. My question is, how much does landscaping factor into the appraised value? Since it's going to be a rental and most tenants won't keep up the landscaping, what's the balance I should be trying to achieve to positively impact the appraisal but not overwhelm a tenant with expectations they'll have a lot to keep up? Suggestions for specific types of plants and/or hardscaping ideas would be much appreciated. Very hot, dry summers. Fairly cold winters (30's with some snow days). Full sun.

Nicholas L. · Answer

@Bonnie Low

did this get resolved, or come up again in your investing career?  I'm working on my 3rd BRRRR and going to try to put out all the stops to make sure i get the best appraisal.  I would think appearance generally matters - first impressions and all that.  but needs to be balanced with cost of course.

thanks!

Jon K. · Answer

I don't believe this will have much effect, if any, on your appraised value. I don't recall ever seeing landscaping or the condition of the grounds surrounding a SFH mentioned on any appraisal that I've ever had done.