This Durable Type Of Fence May Help Increase Your Property Value

They say good fences make good neighbors, but they also drastically increase your home's curb appeal, safety, security, and overall value. Whether you're trying to choose the right fencing for your family's lifestyle or you want to make an improvement before listing your home for sale, there are some important decisions ahead. Where are your property lines? What does your budget look like? And, of course, which material offers the beauty and other benefits you want from your fence? According to Ryan Fitzgerald, realtor and owner of Raleigh Realty, although wood and vinyl fences may appeal to certain buyers, ornamental steel fences are a durable choice that can help increase your property value.

"A well-made ornamental steel fence can boost a property's curb appeal, as it adds a sense of security and signals to potential buyers that the property is being properly cared for," Fitzgerald told House Digest during an exclusive interview. "Buyers tend to appreciate clear property boundaries and the upscale feel it brings, especially in midrange and higher-end neighborhoods." Although the right fencing choice varies depending on your particular neighborhood, the real estate expert said ornamental steel fencing appeals to buyers because they often "see it as one less thing they need to add after moving in."

Ornamental steel isn't necessarily one of the most affordable fencing ideas to enclose your yard. Fitzgerald said the return on investment also depends on the area you're in and the style of your home. "You can usually expect to get back around half to seventy percent of what you spend," he explained. "Homes with well-installed fences often attract more interest during showings, which can lead to stronger offers."

As you start to research ornamental steel fence options, you'll quickly find a variety of stunning wrought iron ideas that add luxurious curb appeal. But according to Ryan Fitzgerald, some colors and designs will offer a better return on investment than others. "In terms of colors, matte black is a safe choice since it pairs well with most exterior colors and has a classic look," Fitzgerald said during his exclusive interview with House Digest. He also suggested sticking with clean lines and avoiding too many decorative elements. "Busy or overly ornate designs can feel dated or too specific for many buyers." The real estate expert recommended choosing a powder-coated finish to help your fence look new for longer. 

Along with getting the color and finish just right, height is an important factor. "A fence around four to five feet tall that allows for visibility while still defining the property line usually works best," Fitzgerald said. Too high, and you run the risk of your fence looking imposing to potential buyers. Too short, and it may not make much of an impact. "Overall, you want the fence to look high quality while keeping a broad appeal, which matters if you are looking to add value when selling." The average cost to install a 4-foot-tall wrought iron fence is between $25 and $35 per linear foot.

Ornamental wrought iron fences are a classic choice, but there are times when they probably aren't ideal for your property. During his exclusive interview with House Digest, Ryan Fitzgerald said it's crucial to consider your specific neighborhood before installing a new fence. "If most homes in your neighborhood have open yards, putting up a fence can look out of place and break up the feel of the property," the real estate expert explained. He also cautioned against installing a fence that will block a good view, which may impact a buyer's interest or lower the price they're willing to pay for your home. "In some cases, it makes more sense to put your money into landscaping or smaller updates outside," Fitzgerald explained.

He recommended looking around your neighborhood to determine what will fit best into the surrounding area. You may quickly determine that ornamental steel isn't the most popular fencing material. "In some areas, wood privacy fences can add more value, especially for buyers who have children or pets and want a fully enclosed yard," Fitzgerald said. "Vinyl fences can also attract buyers who prefer low maintenance since they do not rust or need painting. Each of these types of fencing can hold its value, especially when well-maintained. "The best fence for resale value often depends on what buyers in your area expect and what fits the look of your home."