How Low-Cost Landscaping Can Elevate Your Short-Term Rental’s Appea

budget landscape low-cost Apr 15, 2025

As a short-term rental (STR) host, you know first impressions matter. From the moment guests pull into your driveway, the exterior of your property sets the tone for their entire stay. A well-maintained, visually appealing front yard not only creates a warm welcome but also boosts your property’s curb appeal, guest reviews, and booking rates. The good news? You don’t need a big budget to achieve stunning results. Low-cost landscaping can transform your STR’s exterior, delivering a strong return on investment (ROI) with minimal effort and expense. Whether you’re refreshing a tired lawn or adding pops of color, these budget-friendly ideas will help your property stand out in the competitive STR market—all while keeping maintenance simple for you and your cleaning team.

Here’s how to implement low-cost landscaping projects that highlight your STR, tailored to the needs of hosts looking to impress guests and maximize value.

Why Landscaping Matters for STRs

For STR hosts, landscaping is more than aesthetics—it’s a business strategy. A 2023 study by the National Association of Realtors found that well-landscaped homes can increase property value by up to 12%, and for STRs, this translates to higher nightly rates and more bookings. Guests often share photos of your property on social media, and a vibrant front yard can become a marketing asset, showcasing your rental’s charm. Plus, low-maintenance designs reduce upkeep costs, ensuring you don’t spend a fortune on monthly gardening services. With a budget as low as $500, you can create a welcoming exterior that leaves a lasting impression without breaking the bank.

Step 1: Get Inspired by Your Surroundings

Before diving into your landscaping project, take a drive or walk through your neighborhood to gather inspiration. Observe what works for other properties, especially those that feel inviting or align with your STR’s vibe. Ask yourself:

Do you love the look of low-growing shrubs with vibrant blooms, like red azaleas or purple salvia?
Are you drawn to a sleek lawn bordered by a clean walkway or a small flowering tree, like a crepe myrtle, that adds charm?
Does a minimalist design with native plants appeal to your area’s aesthetic?

Jot down ideas that catch your eye, focusing on elements that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, as these are ideal for STRs with frequent guest turnover. For example, if you’re in a coastal area, consider salt-tolerant plants like sea oats or lantana. In desert regions, succulents or gravel beds can create a chic, water-saving look. By aligning your landscaping with local flora, you’ll save on watering and upkeep while enhancing regional appeal.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Landscaping doesn’t have to be expensive, but it’s wise to plan your budget upfront. For most STR hosts, $500-$1,000 is enough to make a significant impact, covering plants, mulch, fertilizer, and basic tools. Include a small monthly allocation (e.g., $50-$100) for ongoing maintenance, such as lawn mowing or seasonal fertilizing, to keep your yard lush without burdening your cleaning crew.

To stretch your budget, shop at local nurseries during seasonal sales (spring and fall are ideal) or check online marketplaces for discounted plants and materials. If you need professional help, connect with NSTRA’s vetted landscaping vendors, who offer exclusive discounts to members. Visit nationalshorttermrentalassociation.com and take a look at our vendors list. Become a Member and sign in to access our full vendor list, PLUS save on services that keep your STR looking its best.

Step 3: Focus on Low-Maintenance Design

For STRs, simplicity is key. A cluttered yard with high-maintenance plants can lead to costly upkeep and detract from the enjoyment of guests. Instead, aim for a clean, minimal design that highlights your property’s architecture. Here are some low-cost, low-maintenance ideas:

A Healthy Lawn: A green lawn is the foundation of curb appeal. Mow regularly (weekly or biweekly) and apply a weed-and-feed fertilizer in spring to keep grass vibrant and weed-free. Products like Scotts Turf Builder ($20-$30) are budget-friendly and effective. If your lawn struggles, take a small grass sample in a ziplock bag to a nursery for expert advice on soil health or pest control.
Strategic Plantings: Add one or two focal points, like a flowering shrub (e.g., hydrangea, $25-$50) or a small tree (e.g., dwarf magnolia, $50-$100), to frame your entrance. Place them on either side of the walkway or in front of your home for maximum impact.
Mulch Beds: Cover planting areas with mulch ($5-$10 per bag) to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and create a polished look. Choose dark mulch for contrast against green grass or light mulch to complement a modern aesthetic.
Native Plants: Opt for plants native to your region, as they require less water and care. For example, black-eyed Susans thrive in the Midwest, while agave suits arid climates. Native plants can cost as little as $10-$20 each and add local charm.

Step 4: Add Color and Character

A splash of color can make your STR pop in listing photos and guest memories. Consider:

Flowering Shrubs: Lilacs, hibiscus, or bougainvillea ($20-$40 each) add vibrant hues and bloom reliably with minimal care.
Potted Plants: Place affordable potted flowers (e.g., petunias, $5-$15) near the entrance for a welcoming touch. Pots can be moved or swapped seasonally for variety.
Accent Features: A solar-powered pathway light ($10-$20) or a decorative stone border ($15-$30) enhances nighttime appeal without wiring costs.

These elements not only enhance the beauty of your yard but also convey to guests that your property is well-maintained, which in turn encourages positive reviews.

Step 5: Maintain with Ease

To keep landscaping costs low, automate and streamline maintenance. Install a basic sprinkler timer ($30-$50) to water efficiently, or use drought-tolerant plants to minimize irrigation. Partner with a local landscaper for quarterly fertilizing and pruning, and leverage NSTRA’s Preferred Sponsors for discounted cleaning and landscaping services. Our sponsors, like The Big Clean (aka "We Clean (city name), e.g., a cleaning company), offer member-exclusive deals to keep your STR pristine.

Check out our Preferred Sponsors at https://www.nationalshorttermrentalassociation.com/tech-n-tools for inspiration and savings.

Final Thoughts

Low-cost landscaping is a game-changer for STR hosts looking to boost curb appeal, guest satisfaction, and bookings without breaking the bank. With a budget of $500 or less, you can create a welcoming front yard that highlights your property’s charm and sets it apart in the STR market. By focusing on simple, low-maintenance designs—think healthy lawns, native plants, and strategic color—you’ll achieve stunning results with minimal upkeep. Take the first step today: scout your neighborhood, set a budget, and start planning your landscaping project. Your guests (and your bottom line) will thank you.

For more resources and vendor discounts to support your STR, explore our NSTRA website (you're on it now, wink!) and visit our Preferred Sponsors. Sign in to unlock exclusive savings and elevate your property to the next level.