December 2008 - Lakeland, GA

Home is more than just "where the heart is" for many Americans. It is the single largest investment most will make in their lifetime and, through the years, has provided appreciated value for retirement and family emergencies. With real estate values going through a depreciation cycle, home owners are finding that prices are down and it takes longer to sell property. One of the best ways to speed up sales and get top dollar is to ensure that a house maximizes its "curb appeal."

According to the Gallup Organization, quality landscaping can add seven to 15 percent to a home's value. A Money magazine study showed that investment in landscaping can bring a return of 100 - 200 percent at selling time. This compares with a return of 75 - 125 percent for kitchen remodeling, 20 - 120 percent for a bathroom redo or 20 to 50 percent for adding a swimming pool.

"These economic figures are compelling on their own, especially in this economy," said Ben Copeland, president of Patten Seed Company. "But there are many other very good reasons to invest in quality landscaping now. In addition to providing a great return on your investment, a well-landscaped property enhances a family's quality of life and reduces your carbon footprint - it's good for you and good for the environment."

Copeland points out that during the summer, a quality lawn can decrease ambient air temperature around a house by as much as 10 - 20 degrees. The lawns of eight houses can have the effect of 70 tons of air conditioning.

"A 2,500 square foot lawn absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produces enough oxygen for a family of four. And good landscaping serves as a noise buffer, reduces erosion, enhances control of storm water and generally improves the usability and enjoyment of your home," Copeland added.

Local Patten Seed - Super-Sod® outlets will schedule a landscape/lawn appraisal at no charge to help homeowners:

• Select the right grass for a lush, low-maintenance lawn
• Recommend landscape improvement for visual appeal and proper drainage
• Suggest plants and mulches appropriate to your area
• Develop staged installation plans for lawn and landscape enhancements

For more information
locate the nearest Super-Sod outlet