March 12, 2025
Author: Mark Smith

Reading Time: 5-8 minutes

Top 10 Landscaping Tips to Increase Your Property’s Value in Byron Bay & Northern Rivers

If you’re a homeowner in Byron Bay or the Northern Rivers, looking to increase your property’s value, landscaping is one of the most cost-effective options available. A well-maintained garden, functional outdoor living spaces, and smart landscape design can add significant value to your home and make it far more appealing to prospective buyers.


At Gondwana Landscaping and Stone, we specialise in landscaping projects that enhance your home’s overall value while staying true to the natural beauty of our region.


Here are 10 effective ways to increase your property value with strategic garden landscaping.

1. Boost Curb Appeal with a Lush Green Lawn

First impressions matter—real estate agents agree that a lush lawn instantly boosts kerb appeal and sets the tone for the rest of the home.


  • Opt for Buffalo grass, which thrives in the Byron Bay climate and requires minimal garden maintenance.
  • Keep lawn edges neat for a crisp, professional look.
  • Fresh mulch around garden beds helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, making maintenance easier.


A well-kept new lawn is a cost-effective option that enhances the perceived value of your home and attracts more homebuyers.


💡 Note
Real estate giant Domain states that a good landscape can add upwards of 25% to the value of your property. It should be noted that the domain article is 7 years old, those numbers would be markedly bigger

Read article

Furthermore


According to John Harris, landscape economist, quality landscaping can increase the value of your home by up to 28%. Another research paper conducted by Mark S. Henry, professor at Clemson University, states that thinking outside the box and increasing your landscaping efforts to create something truly great in your backyard can then add a further 7% to that original 28%. 


Read article


2. Create Functional Outdoor Living Spaces

With Byron’s stunning climate, it makes sense to extend your indoor/outdoor living areas. Outdoor areas that feel like a natural extension of the home can increase your property value significantly.


  • Add an outdoor kitchen with a built-in BBQ for effortless entertaining.
  • A shaded pergola or deck can transform a simple backyard into a resort-style retreat.
  • Outdoor lighting enhances safety, ambience, and overall home value.


These upgrades not only improve your home’s exterior but also create substantial returns when it’s time to sell.


3. Invest in Native Plants for a Low-Maintenance Garden

Using native plants is a great way to create a stunning yet low-maintenance landscape that thrives in the Northern Rivers climate.


  • Lomandra, Grevillea, and Kangaroo Paw are fantastic choices for both front yard and backyard garden beds.
  • Drought-tolerant plants reduce water consumption, cutting down on maintenance costs.
  • A thoughtfully designed landscaped garden with lush greenery appeals to prospective buyers looking for an easy-care property.


Not only do native plants improve the aesthetic appeal of your home, but they also align with sustainable landscaping ideas.



4. Upgrade Your Garden with Hardscaping Features

Adding hardscaping elements to your garden can make a huge difference in property prices and long-term durability.


  • A retaining wall can add structure and improve drainage.
  • Paved pathways create a polished look and improve accessibility.
  • A fire pit adds warmth and makes your outdoor areas inviting year-round.


These home improvements offer a high resale value while keeping your landscaped garden stylish and functional.

5. Install a Water Feature for a Touch of Luxury

A well-placed water feature can create a tranquil atmosphere and enhance your home’s visual appeal.


  • A natural stone water feature blends seamlessly into Byron’s landscape.
  • Ponds, fountains, and cascading water elements add an elegant touch.
  • Running water has a calming effect, making your outdoor areas feel like a private retreat.


While not every homebuyer may prioritise a water feature, it can certainly help justify a higher price for the right buyer.


6. Smart Irrigation Systems for Water Efficiency

Installing irrigation systems is a cost-effective option that ensures your garden beds and new plants stay lush without excessive water use.


  • Drip irrigation is ideal for precise watering and reducing waste.
  • Smart irrigation systems can be programmed to match seasonal needs.
  • Rainwater harvesting adds sustainability and long-term savings.


Efficient watering solutions are a great way to maintain a lush green lawn and keep a well-maintained garden all year round.

7. Outdoor Lighting for Safety and Aesthetic Appeal

Strategic landscape lighting not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also increases security, making your property more desirable.


  • Pathway lights improve navigation and safety.
  • Feature lighting highlights stunning plants, trees, or architectural elements.
  • Smart outdoor lighting can be solar-powered for energy efficiency.


A well-lit landscape design can make your home stand out in the real estate market.


8. Consider a Swimming Pool or Tennis Court for High-End Buyers

In Byron Bay’s high-value property market, adding premium features like a swimming pool or tennis court can dramatically increase your property value.


  • A saltwater pool is a low-maintenance option that appeals to homebuyers.
  • A tennis court adds a luxurious, active lifestyle element.
  • Combining a pool area with lush garden landscaping creates a true oasis.



These larger landscaping projects can bring in substantial returns in the real estate market, especially for new home buyers looking for a unique lifestyle.

9. Refresh Your Flower Beds and Garden Landscaping

Simple upgrades like new plants, fresh mulch, and vibrant flower beds can add much value to your home’s exterior.


  • Seasonal flowers keep your landscaped garden looking fresh.
  • Raised garden beds add structure and appeal.
  • Grouping plants with different textures enhances visual appeal.



Small home improvements like these are a cost-effective option that leads to a higher price at resale.

10. Hire a Professional Landscaper for Maximum Impact

While DIY projects can improve home value, hiring a professional landscaper like Gondwana Landscaping and Stone ensures you get the best landscape design tailored to the Byron Bay/Northern Rivers environment.


  • A landscape designer can create a well-maintained garden with functional outdoor spaces.
  • Expert knowledge helps maximise resale value without overspending.
  • High-end buyers appreciate good landscaping that’s been professionally planned.



As a general rule, a professionally designed landscape can add significant value to your home’s value while reducing ongoing garden maintenance.

Final Thoughts

If you want to increase your property value while creating a stunning outdoor retreat, landscaping projects are a cost-effective option with substantial returns on the resale value + quality of life.  

FAQ

  • How much value does good landscaping add to my property in Byron Bay?


    Great landscape design can add significant value to your home’s overall value, with estimates suggesting a well-planned garden can boost the sale price by 15-25%. 


    Given Byron Bay’s competitive real estate market, a low-maintenance, well-maintained garden with functional outdoor spaces can make your home far more attractive to prospective buyers.


  • What are the best low-maintenance plants for a Northern Rivers garden?


    If you want a cost-effective option with minimal garden maintenance, native plants are your best bet. 


    We recommend Lomandra, Grevillea, Kangaroo Paw, and Banksia, as they thrive in Byron’s climate and require less water. Pair these with fresh mulch and drip irrigation systems to keep them looking great with minimal effort.


  • Will adding an outdoor kitchen or fire pit increase my home’s value?


    Absolutely! Outdoor living spaces are a huge draw for homebuyers, especially in a lifestyle-focused market like Byron Bay. 


    An outdoor kitchen, fire pit, or well-designed landscaped garden makes your home feel more inviting and usable year-round, increasing its perceived value.


  • Is a new lawn worth the investment before selling my home?


    A lush green lawn can instantly boost your home’s curb appeal. 


    Real estate agents said a fresh lawn can increase the price alone.


    A Buffalo grass new lawn is a great way to add instant charm while keeping garden maintenance low. 


    Paired with tidy lawn edges and a simple retaining wall, it enhances your property’s kerb appeal and can justify a higher price.


  • What’s better for resale value—landscaping or a swimming pool?


    It depends on your target buyer. Generally both work in tandem provided the aesthetic choice is quality.


     A swimming pool can appeal to high-end homebuyers, but good landscaping offers a substantial return for a wider audience. Thoughtful garden landscaping, outdoor lighting, and a stylish landscape design create lasting appeal without the ongoing maintenance of a pool area.


  • Can a professional landscaper help increase my property’s value?


    Absolutely! A professional landscaper ensures your landscaping projects are designed to increase your property value while being practical and sustainable. 


    At Gondwana Landscaping and Stone, we specialise in Byron Bay landscaping that enhances resale value while creating functional outdoor spaces suited to the local climate.


  • How do I choose the right landscaping improvements for my home?


    Start with your goals! If you want to increase your property value, focus on low-maintenance landscaping, outdoor areas, and kerb appeal. 


    If you’re staying long-term, invest in indoor/outdoor living features like a water feature, outdoor kitchen, or landscape lighting. 


    A chat with one of our landscape designers can help prioritise the best upgrades for your budget and lifestyle.


Gondwana is the premium garden design & construction company in Byron Bay & Northern Rivers area


At Gondwana we craft living, breathing landscapes that tell a story. A story of harmony between structure and nature, of innovation meeting tradition, and of personalised spaces that feel like an extension of your home.


With 20 years of expertise in native and Indigenous landscaping, we take pride in creating environments that don’t just look stunning but feel effortlessly functional. Whether it’s a tranquil retreat, a bold architectural statement, or a lush native haven, we bring vision, craftsmanship, and reliability to every project.


If you’re ready to transform your outdoor space into something truly extraordinary, let’s bring your dream landscape to life—on time, on budget, and beyond expectations.

Stone Mason & Master Landscape Designer

We're not your typical gardeners, we're Artisan Landscapers

At Gondwana Landscaping and Stone, we transform outdoor spaces into breathtaking, functional sanctuaries—designed with precision and built to last. We're an end-to-end landscape design & construction company:

🏡 Native Landscape Design

👷🏽‍♂️ Comprehensive Project Management

💐 Garden Maintenance

🪨  Paving & Stone Flagging

🪵 Retaining Walls (Timber & Stone)

💡 Outdoor Lighting

🏊‍♂️  Pool Surrounds

🌳 Decks & Pergolas

💦 Water Features

🚜  Earthworks & Driveways

🌱  Edible Gardens & Plant Selection

 🌿 Turf Installation & Irrigation

🧱Privacy Screens, Brick & Block Work

No hidden fees or blown up budgets - Discover Gondwana


Let’s bring your vision to life—on time, on budget, and beyond expectations.

Speak to Mark today to get a design consultation!

By Mark Smith April 18, 2025
A natural stone wall—especially basalt—feels grounded, timeless, and quietly powerful. It weathers beautifully. Moss and lichen grow over time, and instead of looking tired, it blends right into the landscape like it’s always been there.