Top real estate pros who price over a hundred homes a year will tell you that a fence comes with no guarantee of any reliable return on investment.??A gorgeous front yard fence frames a home, and with a fresh coat of paint or decorative finish, it becomes a form of creative expression, not just a boundary.
Furthermore, most tall backyard fences inspire buyers with furry friends to make an offer. When it comes down to the question of, Does a fence increase home value? Well, it all really depends on what materials you use, your neighborhood, what local buyers are looking for, and the condition you keep it in.
That?s a lot to think about So before you hammer boards into the ground or go wild at Home Depot, do your homework. Don?t worry, we?ve got you covered here (keep reading).
How Much Does It Cost To Build A Fence?
Putting together a fence is no minor expense. The factors that can impact the cost of your fence include:
- The length of your fence perimeter (measured in linear feet)
- The type and material of your fence
Most Portland Steel Fencing Experts will tell you that the costs of your fence materials could range anywhere between $1-$45 per linear foot, and the average backyard perimeter is 150-170 linear feet. Front yards are usually smaller, but it depends on your property, of course.
Furthermore, our Portland Modern Steel Fencing Experts say you?ll also want to think about how high you want your fence to be. Front yard fences are usually 3 feet high, while backyard fences are on the taller end, ranging from 6 to 8 feet.
The Pros And Cons Of Different Fence Materials: What Should You Select?
When it comes to selecting your fence materials, you don?t want to go too far on the cheap side. Neither barbed wire or chicken mesh give your home exterior a decorative aesthetic, nor do they provide any privacy.
Most Portland Steel Fence Companies will tell you that depending on where your home is located and the weather you experience, your fence takes a beating from heavy rain, wind and snow. Wrought iron is the most durable, but you need to treat it regularly for rust. On the other hand, aluminum looks similar to wrought iron and requires less maintenance. But, unfortunately, it?s not quite as durable.
If your top vision is privacy, then you can?t beat the continuity of wood planks that keep your house protected from lookie-loos such as a fortress.
What Needs To Be Completed Prior To Getting Your Fence Installed
Exceptional fences make good neighbors. But fences installed on your neighbor?s side of the lawn get neighbors mad. Prior to giving your contractor the green light to start building, you need to know your property lines. To do this, use your home?s plat (the map of your plot of land and boundaries). If you don?t have it, head down to the county assessor?s office or call in a land surveyor to get you the right measurements.
Sometimes, the fence is not in the right place, which can cause issues when it comes time to sell. If your fence is way off of your property line, it gives buyers a false impression of where their future property ends and begins.
Do you recall when you had that cable line buried in the backyard years ago? You need to build around that, plus any other lines for gas, electricity, or water. Our Portland Steel Fence Experts recommend getting your utilities company to come out to inspect wherever it is you plan to build.
In addition, make sure to check for tree roots and take a survey of your yard?steep hills, rocky soil and other existing structures make the job more complicated (and expensive!)
Will A Fence Increase Your Home?s Value?
A majority of Portland Steel Fence Experts will tell you that a fence is no small project to take on. And if it?s not going to directly add value to your property before you sell, you?re better off improving the inside of the home or, for instance, your landscaping, in more tangible ways.
That?s not to say fences, if well-maintained, aren?t worth anything. As a homeowner, our Portland Modern Steel Fence Experts say you may personally enjoy the perks that come with having a fence, which can create a private oasis perfect for letting your pets run free. A great looking fence around your home also wins instant curb appeal bonus points.
An appraiser who evaluates your house during the course of the sale will look at the fence and either add or subtract value based on its condition and what buyers in the area are looking for.