It's not certain as this stage if water restrictions will apply again this summer, but regardless of this people need to be water wise for the long term.
Not surprisingly, rising water costs and restrictions on water usage are influencing some people's housing decisions. Smaller residential blocks of land are more common and properties with reticulated gardens more popular.
Busy lifestyles, smaller families and rising land costs are the primary reasons for shrinking block sizes and their automated garden watering systems, but there is also a growing appreciation of the value of a water-wise home and our environmental responsibilities broadly.
Each time the State Government brings in necessary water restrictions, REIWA agents notice increased interest in households converting to native gardens, drought resistant plants and reduced areas of thirsty lawn.
This is understandable, but before you attempt a similar project aimed at being water conscious, keep in mind what such a change in your garden might do for the resale value of your home.
Most homebuyers are fairly cautious and conservative in their buying habits and housing preferences. So, if you are thinking of planning a more water-wise garden whilst being anxious to maintain the resale value of your home, keep in mind these few helpful suggestions.
Think about keeping some lawn area in both your front and backyard. Australians love lawns and various types just thrive in our warm conditions. A small lawn area is perfectly sufficient. This is evident in older suburbs like Subiaco and North Perth, where it's common to have a front lawn no bigger than a picnic blanket. None-the-less these small lawns add to the look of a home, soften the harshness of brick walls and concrete driveways and help give the impression of a cool, welcoming space.
Large areas of uninterrupted paving can be counter productive if you are trying to minimize on lawns and garden for the sake of water. During our hot summers, paving will heat significantly unless you have shaded patios or trees. You might save on water but you'll create a heat trap around your house.
Designing a garden to make the best use of its alignment with the path of the sun is important if you have the opportunity to do this. A well designed home and garden can ensure that there is at least one part of the outdoor living area shaded from WA's harsh afternoon summer sun.
As water restrictions become tougher and more common and as water costs rise, properties with water-wise gardens and shade features will become more sought after. Expect to see more property advertisements this summer highlighting easy care and reticulated gardens, established trees, patios or the added bonus of a bore.
|
