A majestic century-old tree, a flowering hedge, a well-maintained vegetable garden… A garden is one of the first features that can either attract—or discourage—a potential buyer. But beyond its aesthetic appeal and the very real constraints it may involve (roots, maintenance, regulations), what is the actual impact of trees and landscaping on a property's market value?
In this article, we explore the real influence of gardens on property value, the legal considerations sellers should be aware of, and the landscaping features that add the greatest value in 2026. If you want to determine your home's current market value, including its outdoor spaces, an online home valuation remains the best way to obtain an objective assessment before putting it on the market.
In summary
- A professionally landscaped and well-maintained garden can increase a home's value by 5% to 15%, and up to 20% for exceptional landscaping.
- Properly positioned mature trees can reduce air conditioning needs by up to 40% thanks to their summer shade.
- Under the French Civil Code, minimum planting distances from neighbouring properties apply (2 metres for trees over 2 metres high, 0.5 metres for smaller plants), unless local regulations provide otherwise.
- Trees protected under a Classified Woodland Area (Espace Boisé Classé – EBC) cannot be removed without prior authorisation, and owners are not entitled to compensation.
- As summer watering restrictions become more common, water-efficient Mediterranean-style gardens are increasingly attractive to buyers.
A Well-Maintained Garden: A Genuine Value Booster
Several studies reach the same conclusion: a landscaped and well-maintained outdoor space can increase the value of a home by 5% to 15%, with premiums reaching 20% for the highest-quality landscaping. A property featuring an attractive garden can therefore command around 10% more than a comparable home with no garden or with neglected outdoor space.
Legal Rules to Know Before Selling
Planting Distance Requirements
Article 671 of the French Civil Code establishes minimum planting distances from neighbouring property boundaries: 2 metres for trees exceeding 2 metres in height, and 0.5 metres for smaller plants, measured from the centre of the trunk. However, these rules only apply where no local customs or regulations override them. Some municipalities, including Paris and its inner suburbs, do not impose any minimum planting distances.
Even when these legal distances are respected, a tree causing an abnormal neighbourhood disturbance—such as excessive shade—may still be challenged by a neighbour, who can request that it be removed or reduced to the legally permitted height. This is an important issue to address before listing a property, particularly if neighbour disputes already exist.
Les arbres protégés (Espaces Boisés Classés) Protect trees (Classified Woodlond Areas - Espaces Boisés Classés )
Some trees, hedgerows, woodlands and parks are protected under a Classified Woodland Area (Espace Boisé Classé – EBC) designation, a planning restriction included in the Local Urban Development Plan (Plan Local d'Urbanisme). This status prohibits any change of use or construction likely to compromise their preservation and requires prior authorisation before any tree removal, which is generally refused.
Property owners affected by this restriction are not entitled to compensation. This is an important point to verify before selling, as it may limit the construction or extension projects a buyer intends to undertake.
Risks to Address Before Selling
Tree roots can crack foundations or damage older drainage systems, particularly those made from clay or concrete (modern PVC pipes are generally more resistant). Certain species, such as poplars and weeping willows, can develop root systems extending 10 to 15 metres, making a recommended safety distance of up to 30 metres from buildings advisable.
Excessive shade may concern buyers who are attentive to both summer comfort and winter solar gain—two factors that can also influence a property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
Pollen allergies should not be overlooked. Species such as cypress, arborvitae (thuja), juniper, birch, ash, oak and plane trees, as well as certain ornamental grasses, are particularly allergenic and may discourage allergy-sensitive buyers.
Maintenance requirements can also influence purchasing decisions. A garden perceived as demanding significant upkeep may put off some buyers, particularly younger purchasers or those with limited time.
Likewise, a well-informed buyer who notices foundation cracks or a tree planted too close to the house may negotiate a lower purchase price. Addressing these issues before putting the property on the market is generally preferable to having them discovered during a second viewing.
The Most Value-Adding Landscaping Features in 2026
With summer watering restrictions becoming increasingly common, many homeowners are turning to xeriscaping—a water-efficient landscaping approach capable of reducing water consumption by 50% to 75% compared with a traditional ornamental garden.
The most sought-after features in 2026 include:
- Mediterranean plants requiring very little water, such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, sage, olive trees, agapanthus, rockrose and laurustinus.
- Mulch, which can reduce watering requirements by 30% to 50%.
- Rainwater harvesting systems, which are generally not affected by drought-related watering restrictions.
- Smaller traditional lawns, replaced by more water-efficient landscaped areas.
- Vegetable gardens and eco-friendly landscapes featuring native plants, which are increasingly appreciated by environmentally conscious buyers.
According to industry estimates, landscaping designed by a professional can add between 5.5% and 25% to a property's value, particularly when it clearly defines outdoor living areas such as a dining space, relaxation area or vegetable garden.
Preparing Your Garden Before Selling
Start preparing your garden at least one month before listing your property.
- Mow the lawn, trim hedges, prune trees and remove weeds from flower beds.
- Improve the immediate surroundings of the house with a new doormat, potted plants and attractive outdoor lighting.
- Add outdoor furniture and a few flowering pots to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Keep the garden in this condition until the final deed of sale is signed, as the property should remain consistent with what buyers saw during viewings.
These efforts are far from insignificant. A large majority of buyers say that a well-designed outdoor space has a direct influence on their purchasing decision, with a measurable impact on both the time it takes to sell a property and the number of offers received.
Contact an Optimhome Real Estate Advisor
To obtain an objective valuation, contact your local Optimhome real estate advisor. They can accurately assess your property and recommend the outdoor improvements most likely to maximise its value before it goes on the market.
FAQ
Can an unmaintained garden reduce a property's selling price?
Answer: Yes. A neglected garden can create the impression that the entire property has been poorly maintained, encouraging some buyers to negotiate a lower price—or even decide not to proceed with a viewing.
Can I be required to remove a tree that is too close to my neighbour's property?
Answer: Yes. If the legal planting distance has not been respected or the tree causes an abnormal neighbourhood disturbance, your neighbour may request that it be removed or reduced to the legally permitted height.
Can a tree protected as a Classified Woodland Area (Espace Boisé Classé) be removed before a sale?
Answer: Generally, no. Removal is only possible in exceptional circumstances with prior authorisation. This protected status safeguards the tree without compensation for the owner and should be disclosed to the buyer before the sale.
Which garden features are most sought after in 2026?
Answer: Water-efficient gardens featuring Mediterranean plants, mulch and rainwater harvesting systems, along with well-designed outdoor living spaces such as dining areas and vegetable gardens, are particularly attractive to buyers in today's climate
Author
Fabrice DOBROWOLSKI Director of Network Development, Optimhome
"Benefit from my expert advice, built on many years of experience in the real estate industry, to help ensure the success of your property buying or selling project."
