Why Your Lawn Is the Top Curb Appeal–Boosting Feature of the Year

A new report from Thumbtack reveals that a well-maintained lawn is of the utmost importance.

According to the 2024 Curb Appeal Trends Report by Thumbtack, it’s officially “The Year of the Backyard.” Homeowners are heavily investing in outdoor improvements this year—but creating a little oasis extends to the front yard too.

Published June 11, the report—which is based on a survey of over 1,000 homeowners—revealed that 29% are planning to spend up to $5,000 to enhance their outdoor space. It also found that 82% of homeowners believe their outdoor living area brings them happiness, which explains the desire to invest in its beautification and comfort. 

Related: An Entertainment Wall Is the Outdoor Trend You Need to Try

Homeowners value spending time enjoying their patios and backyards, but they’re also focused on maximizing curb appeal, with 69% saying it was a significant factor when buying their homes. In fact, the top item that homeowners consider an essential is simply keeping a lush, gorgeous, well-maintained lawn (69%). The next is just as basic: adding to a yard’s beauty with fresh flowers (65%).

What bothers people the most when it comes to outdoor spaces? Sixty-three percent say an overgrown, neglected lawn is the biggest eyesore for home exteriors, with trash (59%), clutter (50%), and too many vehicles (49%) following not far behind. 

Caring for your lawn takes up some free time, but those surveyed also plan to do other tasks to update and upgrade their outdoor space, including:

• Outdoor landscaping and design
• Pressure washing
• Tree trimming and removal
• Exterior painting
• Weeding

Related: The 9 Best Weeding Tools of 2024 for a Flourishing Garden

Homeowners are also getting on board with sustainability, making their yards more productive and eco-friendly. Twenty-eight percent prioritize sustainable design, and 40% of homeowners said they grow their own fruits and vegetables. Other projects they’ve taken on include installing energy-efficient outdoor lighting (32%), planting drought-resistant greenery (30%), and installing solar panels (24%).

When asked what their dream project would be, homeowners made it clear that nothing says summer like splashing around and swimming. Enjoying the water is the priority in 2024, with pools topping on wish lists (45%) and hot tubs coming in at a close second (40%). 

Related: Plunge Pools Are the Popular Upgrade That Will Keep You Cool All Summer

While you may assume people are taking care of their yards with their family and friends in mind, Thumbtack found that the bigger priority for homeowners is making their pets comfortable. In fact, dogs came in at 43% for the top consideration regarding outdoor living, with over a third (39%) of homeowners saying their dream yard would have a fenced-in space for four-legged family members.

After pets, homeowners mentioned kids (42%), “making my space beautiful (41%),” and having an entertaining space (39%) as most important. It looks like the ~dog days~ of summer are being spent outdoors.

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