After an interesting winter in the Greater Richmond Area it is exciting to say that spring is almost here! March 20th could not get here soon enough. What better way to gear up your home for sale than a spring cleaning inside and out? When cleaning up outside make sure to not forget that the entrance to your home and landscaping will be the first things noticed when it comes to your open house or showing.  What better way to spruce up than with trees? These marvelous plants play a crucial role in adding a nice aesthetic to your property, and can potentially raise the value of your home by 20%, according to the US Forest Service.  In addition, trees can provide natural shade and cooling which means savings on your energy bill. Trees planted along the North and Northwest sides of your property line create a natural wall against those freezing winds of winter and can lower your heating expenses up to 30%. Wind break trees can also provide a natural sound barrier and give added privacy.  Whether you are a buyer, seller, or new home owner; trees can be a great addition.

To make your search for the perfect additions to your property, we have compiled a list for your variety of needs:

• For Shade: American Sycamore, Black Gum, Green Ash, Honey Locust, Maple, or Pin Oak.
• For Wind Breaks/Privacy: Cedar, Fir, Hemlock, Virginian Juniper, Pine, or Spruce.
• Or, For Flowers: Crape Myrtle, Dogwood, Eastern Redbud, Magnolia, Serviceberry (this one drops red/purple berries in the summer!), or the Virginia Crabapple.

Please contact your local arborist or nursery for more detailed information, and remember that the Ellen Clark Team is a call or email away for all your real estate needs! Ellen@ellenclark.com/804-739-2224

*Photo courtesy of Grit.com