How to Revitalize the Yard of a Foreclosed Property

Many homes in today's real estate market have fallen victim to foreclosure. Financial institutions eager to sell foreclosed properties may keep up the home's interior and lower the price in hopes that someone will buy it quickly to minimize the financial loss. The outdoor property is often neglected for months and does not show well to potential homebuyers. New homeowners may find themselves in love with the location and the price, and are willing to put in the extra effort to rehabilitate the yard. Here are some ways that new homeowners can quickly rehabilitate a neglected foreclosure property and create an attractive landscape within a few weeks.



Brushcutter

Running a brushcutter over the property is one of the most efficient ways to lower the overgrown grass. Brushcutters also take down weeds, small wild trees. thickets and overgrown vines. This is done first to make it easier to access the rest of the yard. The grass does not have to be even, but merely cut to a manageable height for a temporary measure. The lawn can be mowed after other yard chores are done to make it more attractive.



Hedge Trimmers

The next step is to trim back overgrown bushes and shrubs. If flowering bushes are in full bloom or are sending out fresh buds, wait until the flowers are wilted before using hedge trimmers. Be prepared for bird, animal and insect nests during spring and summer months. Start at the hedge bottom and work upwards, cutting in small amounts. It is easier to even out slight slopes without damaging the shrubbery.



Chain Saws

If the property has been neglected for several seasons, the may be significant storm damage that was never remedied. Fallen trees, broken limbs and dead wood may need to be cleared. A chain saw is a quick and clean method to remove damaged trees. Broken branches and trunks can be cut into logs or chipped into mulch.



Lawnmower

At this point, the yard should be looking more manageable. Clear branches and debris

before breaking out the lawnmower or use a mulching mower. It is practical to wait a few days after using the other tools to allow the lawn some time to recover and the sun to liven up the grass.



Trimming

Use a weedeater and edger around the fence lines, sidewalks and driveway edges to define the new lawn boundaries. Weedeaters or hand pruners can be used to cut away any dilapidated or dead flowers.



Plants

After all of the overgrowth has been removed and cut back, do some basic weeding. Add new plant material or transplant some rooted clippings from elsewhere. Add fresh mulch and water the new plants and flowers regularly. After a few weeks of routine maintenance, the neglected property will start to resemble a well-cared-for lawn.