Landscaping That Drives Asset Performanc

Landscaping That Drives Asset Performance

By Leslie Donahue

Denver's multifamily market remains highly competitive. With elevated vacancy rates, increased renter choice, and pressure on NOI, property owners are evaluating every capital dollar more carefully than ever. At Forefront Renovations, we regularly help owners, operators, and asset managers answer an important question:

Which exterior improvements create the greatest impact on resident appeal, asset value, and long-term operating costs?

While every property is different, current Denver landscaping trends consistently point to three high-value investments that deliver the strongest return for multifamily assets.

For multifamily owners, xeriscaping offers several advantages:

Lower irrigation costs
Reduced landscape maintenance
Improved curb appeal
Greater drought resilience
Increased resident interest in sustainable communities

In Denver specifically, native grasses, ornamental grasses, pollinator gardens, and low-water perennial plantings continue to outperform traditional high-maintenance turf areas.

For multifamily communities, trees contribute value in several ways:

Enhanced curb appeal
Improved resident comfort
Reduced urban heat island effects
Better outdoor amenity utilization
Stronger first impressions during leasing tours

When evaluating landscaping improvements, we often encourage clients to think beyond immediate aesthetics and consider how tree placement supports long-term asset performance.

Likewise, outdoor gathering spaces continue to generate strong value across Colorado properties. Improvements such as:

Paver patios
Community seating areas
Fire pit spaces
Enhanced walkways
Outdoor amenity zones

help create usable outdoor environments that residents actively enjoy. Front Range real estate professionals continue to identify outdoor living improvements as some of the most valuable exterior upgrades available.

Why Scope Development Matters More Than the Improvements Themselves

One of the biggest mistakes we see is owners investing in improvements without a clearly defined scope tied to property goals.

A landscaping budget can disappear quickly if projects are selected based on trends rather than operational outcomes.

At Forefront Renovations, we assist clients with scope development by evaluating:

Property class and resident demographics
Occupancy and leasing challenges
Capital budget constraints
Deferred maintenance concerns
Long-term ownership strategy
Water and maintenance costs
Resident experience goals

Rather than recommending the most expensive solution, our approach focuses on identifying the improvements that generate the greatest return for the specific asset.

For one property, that may mean converting underperforming turf areas into low-maintenance xeriscape zones. For another, it may involve enhancing outdoor lighting and amenity spaces to improve resident satisfaction and retention. In other cases, strategically phased tree installations may provide the strongest long-term value.

The goal is always the same:

Help owners maximize the impact of every capital dollar invested.

A Competitive Market Requires Smarter Capital Planning

As Denver multifamily operators continue navigating elevated vacancy rates and increased competition for residents, property appearance and resident experience play an increasingly important role in leasing performance.

Today's residents have options.

Communities that offer attractive landscaping, functional outdoor spaces, and well-maintained common areas often stand out during the leasing process.

By combining thoughtful scope development, practical budgeting, and strategic renovations, property owners can improve curb appeal, strengthen resident satisfaction, and protect long-term asset value.

At Forefront Renovations, we're proud to help multifamily owners and operators develop renovation and landscaping scopes that balance quality, performance, and return on investment—ensuring every project delivers measurable value where it matters most.

Water-Wise Xeriscaping and Native Plantings

Few landscape improvements have gained more momentum in Colorado than xeriscaping.

Denver's semi-arid climate, rising water costs, and increasing focus on sustainability have made traditional turf-heavy landscapes less attractive from both an operational and financial standpoint.

Xeriscape designs utilize drought-tolerant plants, native species, decorative stone, drip irrigation systems, and efficient landscape layouts that significantly reduce water consumption and maintenance requirements. Studies and industry reports indicate that well-designed xeriscapes can increase property value while reducing ongoing maintenance and irrigation expenses.

Mature Trees and Strategic Shade Canopies

Trees remain one of the highest-value landscape investments available.

Real estate professionals consistently report that mature, healthy trees can contribute meaningful increases in perceived property value while improving aesthetics, shade, and overall resident experience. Well-positioned trees also help reduce summer heat loads, improve walkability, and create a more established community appearance.

Outdoor Lighting and Functional Outdoor Living Spaces

Modern residents increasingly evaluate outdoor spaces as extensions of their living environment.

Strategic lighting upgrades—including pathway lighting, accent lighting, entry lighting, and amenity-area illumination—improve both safety and visual appeal. Well-lit properties feel more secure, more welcoming, and more professionally maintained.

Build More Value Into Your Property

From renovation planning to project completion, Forefront Renovations helps multifamily owners and managers make informed capital improvement decisions that enhance curb appeal, reduce vacancy, and maximize return on investment. Let's discuss your next project.

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