Every home seller knows that the first order of business in preparing your home for sale is creating curb appeal. Upgrading a home’s landscape from average to excellent can raise its overall value by about 10%. The water shortage is creating havoc. Unfortunately, as Southern California is in the midst of a severe drought, most cities have strict penalties for overwatering:
Glendale, you Can only water Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for 10 minutes at each watering station.
Pasadena, Can only water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in the summer (Apr 1-Oct 31); and is restricted to one day a week in the winter (Nov 1 – Mar 31)
La Canada, We have private water companies, and water conservation is currently recommended but not mandated.
Burbank Can only water for up to 15 minutes a day at each watering station on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, April through October. November through March, I can only water on Saturdays.
Los Angeles, which includes Sunland, Tujunga, Shadow Hills, Eagle Rock, and Toluca Lake, has similar restrictions.
For those not interested in curb appeal, changing turf to drought-tolerant plants can provide you with $2.00 per square foot rebates. Learn more about turf removal rebates here:
We recently closed a Montrose Craftsman and recommended that the owner lay sod in the backyard before listing the home for sale. She did, and the city clamped down on her watering the new lawn. Our photographer took the photos, but the grass was not as green as we would like. LA home sellers, make sure your Realtor hires professional photographers who can photoshop the grass. I don’t believe in photoshopping high-tension lines, apartment neighbors, etc., but until my clients can water their grass again, I am a firm believer in green grass in real estate photography.
If you are considering selling your home, this fall and winter might be an opportune time. Fewer homes are on the market, and it should be easier to maintain curb appeal during our cooler weather. Call me, and we can discuss the timing.
