A healthy mature tree typically adds several thousand dollars to a home's sale price, and a USDA Forest Service study in Portland, Oregon, found street trees raised sale prices by an average of $8,870. The amount varies with the tree's health, species, and position, and a declining tree near the house can lower value instead.

Why do mature trees affect what a home is worth?

Because their shade, screening, and curb appeal take years to grow. A USDA Forest Service study in Sacramento found shade trees on the west and south sides of a house cut summer electricity bills by an average of $25.16, and in the Portland study, homes with street trees sold 1.7 days sooner.

Which trees add value and which lower it?

Healthy, well placed shade trees, such as oak and maple, set far enough from the house that branches and roots do not threaten the roof or foundation. A tree with dead limbs, decay, or a lean toward the house works against value, since buyers may see a removal cost.

How is a mature tree's dollar value measured?

By appraisal. Certified arborists use the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers method, which multiplies trunk area by a value per square inch and adjusts for condition and location, and University of Tennessee Extension notes that mature trees over about 24 inches across often appraise at $1,000 to $10,000.

How is a mature tree's value protected?

With deep watering in dry spells, a mulch ring over the roots, yearly inspections, and pruning that removes dead wood. Five to six Deep Drip Tree Watering Stakes set into the ground around a well established tree carry water below the surface during drought.

Frequently Asked Questions

What share of a home's value can trees add?

An average of about 10 percent, according to a USDA Forest Service figure cited by University of Tennessee Extension.

Does a tree raise the value of neighboring homes too?

Yes. The Portland study found a street tree also lifted sale prices of houses within 100 feet, adding $12,828 combined.

Does a tree too close to the house lower value?

It can. Branches over the roof, roots near the foundation, or visible decay may concern buyers and inspectors.

Do young trees add value?

Less at first. Their value grows as the canopy fills in over the years.