You know that property values can significantly impact the homes you sell — and the ones you buy, if you're a homeowner. People want safe and desirable locations to settle down, and desirability consists of numerous factors. The preferences are different for everyone, but there are a few commonalities. Community spaces are one of them.
Parks, gardens and playgrounds can have tangible effects on property values. Research has shown that homes located within 500 feet of a park experience a 5% increase in their property worth. Cities can implement higher sales taxes due to greenery-inspired tourism, which brings in money for other initiatives.
Community areas also influence the feel of your neighborhood. An excellent neighborhood is equally as important as the house itself when it comes to home buying. Petitioning for more community spaces in your region can improve residential health and real estate market success.
Residents Feel Safer
Parks and playgrounds provide safe locations for people and their children to enjoy themselves. The wide-open landscaping of many parks allows for visibility and large groups of people, which deters criminal activity. Urban green spaces often result in increased social cohesion — healthy interaction between residents. People grill, picnic or play games within the same park and they become more open to communicating with others. A sense of community makes it easier for people to reach out and get help if they're in an emergency.
Many people inherently associate the presence of green spaces with safer environments, and this belief often proves true. A neighborhood full of dilapidated buildings and empty parking lots signals a prime spot for crime. Criminals notice the area isn't cared for and assume local police and other governmental bodies won't be on the lookout. That makes it easier for them to get away with robbery and other crimes.
The New York Restoration Project ran a study that revealed 213 fewer felonies occurred in areas of active community effort. Safe, vibrant locations enable people to have fun within their neighborhood, leading to new interpersonal connections and improved wellness.
Green Spaces Benefit Sustainability
Without trees, bushes and other plants, stormwater flows freely into lakes and rivers. This phenomenon wouldn't be a concern if it weren't for the high levels of pollution often present in rainwater. This free-flowing water picks up pet waste, fertilizers and pesticides as it moves across streets and walkways. It subsequently deposits all of this bacteria into local bodies of water, which harm fish and humans alike. High nutrient levels from fertilizers cause toxic algal blooms that kill marine life and contaminate drinking water.
Trees and other greenery absorb this water and release it back to the atmosphere through evaporation. This process sustains the water cycle and supplies nourishment to plants. The soil stores some of this water and replenishes groundwater sources with it. And there's less need to stress over pollutants — the trees' roots absorb many of these, leaving cleaner water behind.
Trees also absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, which cleans the air of harmful emissions. Planting trees and gardens draws in new organisms and enhances an area's biodiversity. Biodiversity promotes a wide range of animal and plant species, keeping ecosystems healthy and thriving. Clean air, water and ecosystems improve societal wellness and preserve the planet's health.
Community Spaces Present Health Advantages
Parks, trails and other green spaces benefit the mental and physical health of residents. Studies across Spain, the U.S., the U.K. and other areas have shown that greenery promotes serenity and reduces stress for many people. The risks for stress-related disorders like cardiovascular disease lessen as a result. The air-cleaning qualities of plants reduce atmospheric pollution and preserve lung health.
Everyone can't afford to splurge on expensive gym memberships, but the presence of a park can inspire people to get active. It's free, accessible and provides ample opportunity for exercise and fresh air. Regular exercise improves the stamina, stimulates weight loss and raises blood oxygen levels, which all contribute to a healthier body. Naturally, the social cohesion aspect fits here too. People might be more open to exercising if they have a group of fitness partners accompanying them.
The Perks of Open, Green Locations
Community spaces raise your property's worth and the value of homes within the neighborhood. The communal space itself facilitates interpersonal interactions, while the addition of it promotes better living and less stress. Advocate for more green, open spaces in your region wherever you can. They help the community thrive and bring you more revenue when making a sale.
