Do Fences Lower Property Value? Ask a Fence Company in Austin 

According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, landscaping (which includes fencing) can add up to 15 to 20 percent to your home’s resale value. But does that national figure apply to the city of Austin or even across the Texas state? And how much value increase to expect for fence installation alone?

The answer is not that simple. It depends on many different factors. And who could answer it better than a local fence company in Austin? So, being the experts here, we’ve put together this detailed guide to help you understand the impact of fencing on your property value in Austin, TX. 

Can a Fence Lower the Value of Your Home? 

No, in fact, in most cases, fence adds value to the property. Overall, landscaping adds 15-20% to the property’s value, so if we talk about the fence alone, a safe assumption could be 1-3% if the work is done really well and professionally. 

So, if the median selling price for a home in Austin is $513K, good fencing can make it up to $518k to $528k, an addition of $5,000 to $15,000. But it’s not that simple, as the actual impact varies depending on materials, designs, and neighborhood expectations. 

Read on to discover those factors that impact the value addition of fencing on your property.

1. Material Type

First and foremost, choosing the right material type for your Austin property is very important. You need to keep in mind Austin’s hot climate, humidity, and severe thunderstorms that would require your fencing material to be durable, well-anchored, and properly treated.

But let’s just say if you’re choosing an untreated wood type as your fencing material, that won’t add value to the property. In fact, you may even require frequent fence repair & installation in Austin due to premature wear. 

2. Curb Appeal 

Another factor that determines the value addition of fencing to your property is the curb appeal. You need to see whether or not it’s adding up to the aesthetics of your home. And for that, it should match the design of your property. 

For instance, in Texas, you’ll find more ranch-style or modern homes, which means cedar or wrought iron fencing would be the best choice for your Austin property. 

3. Functionality 

You need to also consider the fact that whether or not a fence is adding value to your lifestyle. For instance, families with kids or pets prefer fencing around the property for safety reasons. Plus, if your house is in a high-crime area, adding a fence offers you an extra layer of security, which can ultimately increase your home’s perceived value. 

Moreover, Texans love spending their time outdoors. And if a property has privacy fencing in the backyard, it will automatically stand out in the neighborhood with a more practical value. 

4. Neighborhood Standards

Though fencing is a prevalent feature in Austin’s residential areas, it depends on your surroundings as well. Let’s just say houses around you don't have fencing, then having one can make your house feel unwelcoming to the potential buyers and it lowers the overall curb appeal as well. 

But if you’re living in areas with strong real estate markets and high property values, like Barton Hills or Travis Heights, adding a fence to your house can increase its property value. And in areas with higher population growth, it becomes a significant feature for safety and privacy reasons. 

5. Fence Condition and Maintenance

It’s important to note that not all fences add value to your property because a worn, damaged, or poorly built one can rather reduce it. 

So, if your property already has a fence but it’s damaged or worn, better fix it before putting it up for sale. Or hire a fence company in Austin to save up your time and let them handle the process professionally. On average, it’ll cost you around $296-$880. 

What Type of Fence Adds the Most Value to Your Property? 

When it comes to getting a fence for your property, there’s a whole range of them. And you might find yourself confused about choosing one. However, if you keep the above factors in mind, it’ll be easier and it will also add value to your property. 

So, if we keep Austin’s climate conditions, neighborhood standards, and functionality in mind, there are two fence types that add the most value to your property in Austin, TX. 

Cedar Fence

If you want to balance the aesthetic appeal of your property with functionality, cedar is one of the best options among wooden fences. It lasts longer, requires less maintenance, and doesn’t easily warp under the hot Texas sun. 

Wrought Iron Fence

Since most houses in Austin have modern architecture, wrought iron fencing would offer a more upkeep look. Plus, it’s durable, lasts longer, and offers high security for areas with a higher crime rate and population. However, do keep in mind that it does require occasional maintenance to avoid rusting. 

Note: It’s also very important to know your potential buyers because, let’s say if buyers in your area mostly prefer low-maintenance, affordable fencing, then it’s best to go with more budget-friendly options (like pine, vinyl, chain link, or aluminum fencing). 

Budget-Friendly Fence Options:

Though these typically don’t add as much value as the two discussed above, they also don’t cost as much. Budget-friendly options include:

• Pine Fences: More affordable than cedar but less resistant to Austin's humidity and heat. Expect to replace or heavily maintain a pine fence every 7-10 years. Treating and staining pine fences annually can extend their life and keep them looking fresh in Austin's intense sun.
• Vinyl Fences: Perfect for Austin's climate as they withstand heat and humidity without warping. The upfront cost is higher than wood, but virtually zero maintenance makes them economical long-term. They come in various styles and colors that won't fade in the Texas sun.
• Chain Link Fence: The most economical option that provides security without breaking the bank. Ideal for large properties or backyard perimeters in Austin where aesthetics might be less important. Modern options include color-coated varieties that blend better with landscaping.
• Aluminum Fences: Offers the look of wrought iron at a fraction of the cost. Powder-coated aluminum resists Austin's occasional rainstorms without rusting. These fences are particularly popular in neighborhoods with HOAs that require a more polished appearance while remaining budget-conscious.

Philmar Fence can help you install all kinds of fences depending on your future goals and current budget. Call us at (512) 910-0111 to find out your options today!

Does Fence Height and Placement Matter? 

Yes! A poorly placed fence can lead to fines, forced removal, and also reduces buyers’ interest. Plus, fence height matters a lot in Austin, Texas, as it’s subjected to local codes and HOA regulations. As per the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) fence height regulations in Austin, the maximum approved fence height for the city is 6 feet. 

But if you live in a common area with no driveway cuts, you’re maybe allowed a higher fence. Still, you need to get a permit for a fence that’s above 8 feet tall. And it’s not just that; the HOA guidelines also include additional requirements, like the fence style, material, and color to maintain the neighborhood aesthetics. So, better check with your specific HOA rules and fence laws in Texas before installing a fence around your property. 

What is the Best Time to Invest in a Fence? 

The best time to invest in a fence in Austin is early spring before the busy summer arrives because prices are still affordable, and it’s easier to work outside. Plus, the ground is usually softer in spring months like March or April, making fence repair & installation in Austin quicker and smoother. 

• Early Spring (March-April): The prime time for fence installation in Austin. The ground is soft and workable after winter rains, making digging post holes easier. Temperatures are comfortable for outdoor work, not too hot or cold. Schedule your project now to have your fence ready before summer activities begin and before contractors get booked up for the season.
• Late Fall (November-December): An excellent alternative with mild temperatures and typically dry conditions. Fence contractor schedules are opening up after the busy season, potentially leading to better pricing and faster installation times. Having your fence installed now means you'll be ready for spring entertaining without the wait.
• Winter (January-February): Austin's mild winters make this a surprisingly good time for fence projects. This is the industry's slowest season, often resulting in the best pricing and quickest scheduling. Most days are warm enough for work to continue without weather delays, though occasional cold fronts might pause work briefly.

If you’re not sure when to begin fence installation for your specific property in Austin, feel free to contact Philmar Fence for the best possible, tailored fence installation plan.

Contact Philmar Fence Company in Austin, TX, For The  Best Value For Money:

You don’t have to install a fence every few years to ensure your property’s aesthetic and financial value stays intact. A well-installed fence with the right material choice and proactive repairs before issues become disasters can ensure consistent value for your home. Contact Philmar Fence at (512) 910-0111 for fast and affordable fence repair & installation in Austin.