Front yard with a white vinyl picket fence enhancing the home’s curb appeal in Michigan
14
Dec

The Impact of a Fence on Home Value

The Impact of a Fence on Home Value

Adding a fence to your property is often seen as a practical decision. It increases privacy, enhances security, and keeps pets and children safe. However, what many homeowners may not realize is that a well-designed and properly installed fence can also increase the value of your home. At Superior Fence, a trusted fence company in Michigan, we’ve seen firsthand how the right fence can enhance curb appeal and help homes sell faster and for more money.

Does a Fence Really Add Value to a Home?

Yes, it can. According to a report from the National Association of Realtors, home improvements that enhance curb appeal, including fencing, can increase a property’s perceived value by up to 7 percent. While the exact amount of value added varies depending on the type of fence, location, and property features, fences are increasingly desirable in both urban and suburban markets.

  • Privacy fences are especially attractive to buyers with children or pets.
  • Decorative fencing boosts curb appeal and contributes to a clean, well-maintained look.
  • Security fences provide peace of mind in high-traffic or densely populated areas.

Real estate agent evaluating a fenced residential property for market listing

Factors That Influence the Value Added by a Fence

Not all fences are created equal. The return on investment (ROI) for a fence depends on several key factors:

  • Material Quality: High-end materials such as vinyl, aluminum, and composite tend to offer better long-term value than basic chain link or untreated wood.
  • Installation Quality: A fence that is uneven, leaning, or installed without permits can actually lower home value. Working with a professional fence company in Michigan like Superior Fence ensures your fence is built to last and code-compliant.
  • Neighborhood Expectations: In some communities, a fence is expected. Homes without fences in pet-friendly or family-oriented neighborhoods may even be at a disadvantage.
  • Design Aesthetics: A fence that matches the architecture of the home and landscaping design contributes more positively to property value.

Popular Fence Types That Add the Most Value

Certain fencing materials and styles are more likely to increase your home’s value than others. Here are some top-performing options:

  • Vinyl Fences: Low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and clean in appearance. A favorite for suburban homes.
  • Wood Privacy Fences: Traditional, warm, and effective for creating secluded outdoor spaces.
  • Aluminum or Wrought Iron Fences: Decorative and durable, these enhance curb appeal in upscale neighborhoods.
  • Composite Fences: Eco-friendly, modern-looking, and virtually maintenance-free.

Each type of fence has a different price point, but what matters most is how well the fence suits the property and its surroundings.

Real Estate Insights: What Buyers Want

In today’s market, more buyers are specifically looking for fenced properties. According to a Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report, over 40 percent of buyers listed a fenced yard as one of their top 10 priorities. That number increases among buyers with pets or small children.

Homes with fences also tend to photograph better in online listings, which can drive more traffic and potentially higher offers.

Case Study: Fence Installation in Ann Arbor, MI

In spring 2023, a homeowner contacted Superior Fence in Ann Arbor to install a cedar privacy fence before listing their home for sale. The 6-foot-tall fence enclosed the backyard, provided privacy for the patio area, and added aesthetic appeal with a horizontal board design.

  • Installation Time: 4 days
  • Project Cost: $7,800
  • Appraiser’s Opinion: The fence contributed to a $12,000 increase in the home’s appraisal.
  • Final Sale: The home sold within 5 days on the market and received three offers above asking price.

Cedar wood privacy fence enclosing a landscaped backyard in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Maintenance Matters

To retain and grow your fence’s value over time, ongoing maintenance is essential. A neglected fence can have the opposite effect, making a property look dated or poorly cared for.

  • Wood: Stain or seal every 2 to 3 years. Replace warped or broken boards as needed.
  • Vinyl: Clean occasionally with soap and water. Avoid damage from lawn tools.
  • Aluminum: Rinse to prevent buildup and inspect for corrosion or loose fasteners.

Professional installation also helps with long-term maintenance. For example, posts set below the frost line and supported by gravel drainage will resist Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles far better than DIY setups.

Working With a Fence Company in Michigan

Hiring a professional installer ensures that your investment pays off. At Superior Fence, we are a top-rated fence company in Michigan that specializes in custom fence design, quality materials, and code-compliant installation. We guide homeowners through each step of the process, from choosing the right materials to securing permits and completing the final walkthrough.

  • Local Experience: We understand Michigan’s weather, soil conditions, and local ordinances.
  • Warranty and Support: We back our installations with product and workmanship warranties.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Our 5-star reviews reflect our commitment to service and results.

Final Thoughts: Fencing as a Smart Investment

A well-installed fence adds more than just security and style. It can be a smart financial investment that enhances your home’s marketability and long-term value. From selecting materials to installation and upkeep, working with an experienced partner like Superior Fence ensures your project delivers both aesthetic and financial returns.

If you’re considering selling, refinancing, or simply upgrading your outdoor space, a professionally installed fence could be one of the best decisions you make for your property.