Commercial Landscaping ROI: How to Measure the Value of Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and for commercial properties, that impression begins at the curb. Landscaping isn’t just a finishing touch; it’s a strategic investment with measurable benefits. The way your grounds are maintained, designed, and presented plays a critical role in how people perceive your brand, whether they’re tenants, clients, or investors.

Understanding commercial landscaping ROI helps you view your landscape not as a recurring cost but as a revenue-generating asset. From increasing occupancy rates to boosting property value, landscaping’s impact stretches far beyond green grass and trimmed hedges.

What Does Commercial Landscaping ROI Really Mean?

When it comes to landscaping, ROI shows up in property aesthetics, tenant retention, resale pricing, and even energy efficiency. It’s about how your landscape performs, not just how it looks.

A well-maintained landscape can increase property value, reduce operational costs, and position your property as a premium space. Measuring commercial landscaping ROI means linking those outcomes to your upfront investment.

The Connection Between Curb Appeal and Business Value

Curb appeal isn’t just for residential real estate. Clean, vibrant, and inviting outdoor spaces speak volumes about how the rest of your business is managed. When tenants or customers walk up to a building that’s surrounded by neglected grass or dead trees, their expectations drop. On the flip side, lush greenery and professional design create a positive first impression and a sense of trust.

That’s where the curb appeal value really comes into play. It builds perception, supports leasing efforts, and enhances the property’s reputation in the market.

The Effects of Landscape Design on Property Value

Strategic landscape design is a property enhancement tool. It impacts multiple elements that drive both operational and resale value.

Higher Property Appraisals: Studies have shown that professionally designed landscapes can increase commercial property values by as much as 10–15%. That’s significant when you’re talking about multi-million-dollar assets.
Energy Savings: Thoughtful placement of trees, hedges, and shade structures can lower energy bills by reducing heat absorption and improving insulation.
Reduced Maintenance and Irrigation Costs: Modern landscape planning often includes drought-resistant plants, smart irrigation systems, and erosion control, each contributing to long-term cost savings.

What Metrics Should You Track?

Understanding your commercial landscaping ROI starts with measuring results. Here are a few indicators to watch:

Occupancy Rates: A visually appealing exterior helps attract and retain tenants. If your leasing numbers improve after a landscaping upgrade, it’s a clear sign your investment is working.
Rental Premiums: Landscaped properties often command higher rents. If your competitors are charging more because they offer better outdoor environments, it’s time to rethink your grounds.
Time on Market: Properties with strong curb appeal sell or lease faster. Less downtime means better revenue consistency and lower marketing costs.
Tenant Satisfaction Scores: Happy tenants stay longer, and often cite well-maintained outdoor areas as a top factor in their renewal decisions.

At Varsity, we specialize in commercial landscaping that directly supports your property’s goals. From curb appeal that attracts tenants to sustainable designs that reduce costs, our work pays off where it counts. Check out more.

Quality Commercial Landscaping

Curb Appeal in the Leasing Process

During property tours, the landscape is the first and last thing potential tenants see. That makes it a powerful persuasion tool. Clean walkways, flowering plants, and trimmed lawns suggest professionalism and care. Whether it’s a corporate campus, shopping center, or medical facility, buyers and renters are more likely to sign if the landscape reflects high standards. That curb appeal value pays dividends from the first glance to the final handshake.

Landscaping and Brand Identity

Your landscape should align with your brand. If you’re managing a Class A office building, a bland patch of grass doesn’t cut it. If your property serves as a wellness center, lush, peaceful gardens support your message.

Commercial landscaping ROI includes how well your landscape supports the identity and positioning of your business. Are you projecting calm, trust, innovation, or efficiency? Your outdoor space helps tell that story.

Budgeting for Long-Term Returns

Great ROI requires planning. That starts with allocating the right landscaping budget, not just for installation, but for ongoing maintenance. A one-time upgrade without follow-through won’t deliver lasting value. Work with your landscaping partner to create a plan that includes:

Seasonal plant rotations
Irrigation optimization
Turf management
Tree health monitoring
Sustainable practices

Each of these factors contributes to your landscaping return on investment by protecting the health, safety, and appearance of your site over time.

Avoiding Landscaping Common Mistakes

Some property managers fail to see landscaping as a strategic tool. Others overspend without setting measurable goals. Here’s how to avoid that:

Don’t prioritize low cost over long-term quality
Choose plant species suited to your climate and soil
Keep consistent maintenance schedules
Partner with professionals who understand commercial-scale demands

A piecemeal approach might save money upfront, but it rarely delivers the kind of results that impact property value.

How Professionals Like Varsity Help You Maximize Commercial Landscaping ROI

At Varsity, we approach landscaping with business goals in mind. We don’t just install plants and walk away. We help you create a living asset that delivers return year after year. Whether you’re renovating outdated landscaping or starting from scratch, our team designs with curb appeal, sustainability, and marketability in mind. We offer strategic design, precision installation, and long-term maintenance plans customized to your property’s size, style, and usage.

Boost Your Landscape and Property Value With Varsity at Your Side

Commercial landscaping ROI doesn’t happen by accident. It requires smart design, professional care, and a commitment to consistent results. With Varsity as your landscaping partner, you’ll gain more than a beautiful exterior. You’ll unlock measurable value in tenant retention, resale price, and brand perception. Let’s grow something valuable together. Get in touch with our team to start the process today.