The Value of New Sod: Boosting Home Equity with a Lush Lawn

When it comes to elevating curb appeal and home value, one of the most impactful - and often overlooked - improvements is installing new grass or sod. Research from credible real estate and landscaping sources consistently demonstrates that a fresh, healthy lawn delivers significant returns.

How Much Can a Lawn Increase Home Value?

• Overall landscaping improves value by 10%–30%, according to Angi and multiple sources (Real Simple, Angi).

• Basic yard work alone - like mowing, fertilizing, and refreshing mulch - can add about 7% to property value (Angi, Southern Living).

• Grass itself is a top contributor: one survey found that grass was cited among the top landscaping elements raising home value (Trees.com, National Association of REALTORS®).

Real estate pros frequently report that homes with neat lawns make stronger first impressions, suggesting buyers associate care of the exterior with overall maintenance and are willing to pay a premium (National Association of REALTORS®).

Why a Healthy Lawn Impacts Value

1. First impressions matter. A lush lawn signals a well-maintained property and invites buyers to invest in the home.

2. Psychological appeal. Green space provides visual comfort, outdoor usability, and perceived neighborhood quality.

3. Economic and environmental benefits. Healthy grass helps with shading, cooling, erosion, and potentially modest energy savings.

Calculating ROI: Sod Investment on a $250K Home

Suppose you spend $5,000 installing new sod. On a $250,000 home, here’s how that investment might play out:

Even at the conservative end (~7%), a $5,000 lawn project adds about $17,500 in home value - a 250% return. If your upgrade lands closer to the median or upper bound, your ROI could be an astounding 650%–1,400%.

Final Takeaway

Investing in new sod is one of the most cost-effective strategies for increasing home value. It enhances curb appeal, boosts buyer perception, and contributes significant measurable equity. Even a modest-looking project can return more than double your costs, while aggressive landscaping can yield life-changing returns - sometimes exceeding 1,000%.

Whether you're planning to sell soon or simply want to enhance your property's appeal, a lush, green lawn is an investment that almost always pays off. The experts at USA Sod would love to help you unlock this value. Call us at 1-855-4-USASOD to get started!