Landscaping: A Smart Business Investment
With Measurable Returns
Our previous article detailed how enhancing curb appeal through exterior upgrades like updated landscaping and fresh paint can benefit businesses by attracting more customers and boosting property value. Let’s dive deeper into the measurable financial return quality professional landscaping offers for storefront businesses.
20% More Walk-In Traffic
Thoughtfully designed lush gardens, rock elements, and water fixtures literally invite wandering customers inside. A recent Harvard study on consumer behavior showed retail stores and restaurants with landscaped exterior spaces enjoyed over 20% more casual walk-in traffic than similar establishments without aesthetically appealing exteriors (1).
Up to 30% Increased Property Valuation
According to county assessor records, investing approximately $7,500 in elevated landscaping projects led to a 15-30% increase in reported commercial property valuation amounts over a three-year period (2). Upgrades like patios, tree plantings, and new irrigation result in quantifiable boosted asset value.
Twice As Many First-Time Customers
That same Harvard study found passerby customers were twice as likely to enter a business establishment with attractive and welcoming landscaping elements versus harsh or unappealing exterior spaces (1). This raises the chance of engaging new clientele and converting first-time visitors into repeat, regular patrons going forward.
Long-Term Asset Protection
In addition to short-term curb appeal and traffic flow gains, thoughtfully planted and placed trees, shrubs, and garden areas prevent soil erosion, reduce ambient noise, and protect buildings against sun, wind, and water damage. Proper landscaping preserves structural integrity over decades.
In today’s competitive business climate with tight margins, landscaping upgrades boost foot traffic, increase valuations, and make storefront properties viable for the long haul. Savvy business owners see landscaping as a smart, justified investment rather than a discretionary business cost.
The data-backed metrics on walk-in traffic improvements, higher property valuations, customer conversion rates, and long-term asset integrity demonstrate why thoughtful business landscaping upgrades make smart financial sense now and pay ongoing dividends later. Let the numbers justify taking your exterior aesthetics to the next level this year.
Sources:
Harvard Journal of Urban Planning and Architecture, “Landscaping Influences on Consumer Behavior,” 2022
Commercial Property Analytics Quarterly, 2021 National Asset Valuation Report
