Backyard Versus Front Yard: Which One Should You Redo First?

Whether you're trying to boost resale value or just curate an outdoor space that you can feel proud of, redoing your landscaping can feel like a daunting project. So, many homeowners opt to break up the task by focusing on either the front yard or the backyard first. If you're struggling to decide where to start or where to spend the bulk of your landscaping budget, there are a few things to consider.

To start, which yard needs more work? If resale is your top priority, an overgrown or weedy front yard can damage curb appeal, but the same issues in a backyard can also dissuade buyers looking for enjoyable outdoor living space. So, spend most of your effort and money on whichever yard is the bigger eyesore. If you're not planning to move, you may want to tackle an unsightly front yard first simply because it's more visible, or if you spend time there socializing with neighbors. Conversely, fix the backyard as soon as possible if you're planning to enjoy the space during the warm months. However, note that starting with the side that needs the least work may be more budget- and DIY-friendly.

If both sides are in an equally bad state, consider splitting your time and budget between them. Scale back your landscaping goals and opt to bring both yards to a basic standard. Clear overgrown shrubbery and weeds. Mow and reseed your lawn or replace it with eco-friendly grass alternatives if grass struggles to grow there. If neither side is in urgent need of repairs, the decision comes down to your top priorities and budget.

One big reason homeowners choose to start with the front yard is because they're planning to sell their home soon. An attractive front yard helps you improve curb appeal and make a great first impression on potential buyers. In a study from Virginia Tech's School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, attractive landscaping can increase a home's value by up to 12%. So, investing in landscaping is worth it, but the research also hints at how much you should (or shouldn't) spend. Cap your budget at less than 12% of the value of your home to make sure the cost to renovate the outside of your house isn't more than you're likely to get back in the sale.

Another reason to start with the front yard is to decrease maintenance needs. Since this is the side that can be seen from the street, you might feel more pressure to keep the lawn perfectly mowed and the garden beds pruned and weeded. If you don't enjoy all that upkeep, start your outdoor upgrade by replacing existing plants with a mix of well-behaved evergreens, low-maintenance perennials, and low-growing ground covers. That way, you'll have an attractive front yard that takes far less work to keep looking good. Likewise, the front yard might be a bigger priority if you live in a social neighborhood and tend to spend more time on your front porch. Incorporate shrubbery, planters, and outdoor furniture to create a cozy, welcoming front yard hangout.

One of the main reasons to redo your backyard first is for your personal enjoyment. A well-designed backyard can extend the usable living space of your home without the need for an expensive addition. If you're hoping to invest in upgrades that make your outdoor space more enjoyable for you, focus on how you would like to use the backyard. 

If you have kids or pets, installing a fence so they can run freely might be worthwhile. If you like entertaining, a budget-friendly patio addition or a deck could be the way to go. And if you want a peaceful garden to sip your coffee in the morning, focus on living landscaping features, like privacy trees, a mix of early and late blooming flowers, and species that provide year-round interest.

You shouldn't neglect the backyard if you're looking to sell, either. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing homes with outdoor living space, so investing in some backyard upgrades to create usable outdoor area or show buyers that the potential is there is worth it. If the space is limited, for example, incorporating small backyard landscaping ideas can make it feel bigger and more usable, turning it into a selling feature. A third reason to redo the backyard first is to lower your utility and garden maintenance costs. For many homeowners, the backyard is the best place to install sustainable features, like rain barrels and compost bins, that help you lower your water bill and reduce your need for expensive fertilizers.