So you have a big backyard and it's empty

Would-be sellers are always telling me how they have a huge backyard, and that it should be worth extra money. Well, yes and no. Is there anything in that backyard or is it just a blank slate? It may be pool-sized, but that just means the buyer could spend 40k on getting a nice pool put in (that is, if the sideyards are pool-equipment-sized!

Sometimes, you'll find a buyer who just loves gardening and wants total control. In that case, that expanse of decomposed granite may be attractive. But let's face it, to most people, it's an unfinished job that will cost them a lot of money to deal with. And if there are gorgeous yards nearby that are easily visible from your 2nd floor, it will make your place look all the worse.

Of course, for the seller, doing something (anything!) with that dusty space will make the house more attractive and more likely to sell. It needn't be exotic, just clean and green.

1) Put in irrigation correctly and water regularly after sundown. Use a drip system in flower beds and borders.
2) Plant grass seed. (Only use sod once the hot weather is over, otherwise you're wasting your time and money.)
3) Put in a nice perennial border: African Iris, Society Garlic, Day Lilies, rock roses,and Agapanthus are all easy-going. Roses love our sun and heat.
4) Put in a few trees. Citrus is an obvious choice. Eucalyptus and gum trees do well but check on which ones have faring better with the eucalyptus longhorn borer.
5) Colorful annuals are always a cheap and easy way to fill space, but remember to take them out and replace them once they die back.
6) Weed, mow, water, and feed regularly.