What do you think of when searching for your forever home? Mature trees come up on a lot of homeowners’ ‘must have’ list. There’s just something about large beautiful old trees that have a lot of people looking for these beauties when searching for their next property. Despite their stately presence, there are a lot of things to consider before purchasing a property with mature trees.
Obviously, there are a lot of positives to having mature trees on your new property. “Trees can add value to your home, help cool your home and neighborhood, break the cold winds to lower your heating costs, and provide food for wildlife.” (Arbor Day Foundation) “They can [also] help to absorb noise, freshen the atmosphere, serve as windbreaks, provide privacy, protect, shade, shelter and divide grounds into several use areas.” (University of Minnesota)

Despite these benefits, there are also things to consider before purchasing a home with mature trees. “A mature tree right next to or near a home works great as a natural home cooler or wind blocker. But there are risks of having a tree situated near a house: it could fall, its limb could drop or it could damage the home’s foundation. That’s why the most important thing you can do is get lots of information about the trees up front. And then decide if they’ll be a sound investment or a serious liability.” (Davey) Also, “Remember that existing trees grow and will need to be pruned later to keep this space open.” (University of Minnesota)

Before you make an offer, have a certified arborist check out the potential property if you have questions on the possible value of removing or keeping any large, mature trees. It could potentially save you a lot of money in the long run!

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://extension2.missouri.edu/g6900

https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm

https://blog.davey.com/2018/04/buying-a-house-with-big-mature-trees-near-house-or-foundation/