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HOW DO YOU BLOCK BUSY ROAD NOISE AT YOUR HOUSE

Dave,

We just learned that there is going to be a well-traveled road extended that will go directly behind our home. We’ve enjoyed open space for the past several years that we’ve lived here and were really bummed when we heard about the road plans. We’re worried about our daughter playing in the yard, traffic noise and so much more. Will the road drastically decrease the value of our home? Should we try to sell before the road construction starts so we recoup what we’ve invested in our home or is it too late?

Thank you,
Brittany, Grand Junction

Brittany,


I am sorry to hear about the road expansion! I hate it for you as I know how it is to enjoy the peace of having no backyard neighbors. I have said it over and over again that busy road traffic does have a negative impact on a home’s value. At this juncture in my career, I do not believe that statement is in doubt, but I have learned that there are caveats that leave room for hope that the negative impact may not be as bad as you may fear. 


Most homes live from front to back, meaning bedrooms, offices, dining rooms etc. are often positioned towards the front of the home and the living spaces, kitchen and master bedrooms are positioned in the back so the living spaces are more focused on the back yard and back patios. It is likely your home has been designed with some form of this set up and instead of lamenting what you now have, you should focus on the things you can do to mitigate and lessen the new road’s impact! Keep in mind that the interpretation of a “busy” road is relative. The definition you receive from someone who is moving from rural Wyoming will be significantly different from someone who is moving here from L.A. whose home backed to the 405!

There are two things (actually senses) that you need to keep in mind when looking to lessen the impact of the new road and those are sound and visibility. Start by making sure that you make plans to put up a fence if you don’t already have one, this will immediately address the safety issue and begin to address the sound and visibility. Next, make sure to put in trees along the back that are fast growing and will create a good barrier that extends above your fence line and will absorb and deflect much of the noise and further lessen the visual impact of the new road. Purchase trees that are as large as you can get so the impact is much more immediate. Adding a water feature can also be a great improvement and remember it does not have to be expensive to be effective. Remember we are looking for a calming sound to help create a softer less invasive atmosphere. Next, on your deck or patio, add some new furniture that looks and feels comfortable with plush cushions and pillows! This will also soften the area and make it more inviting. Don’t run from the issue, take it head on and create an environment that will help cancel out the negative, by accentuating with a positive!


When the time is right you will have minimized the impact, preserved as much value as possible, and you will find the right butt for your saddle. Good Luck!

Dave Kimbrough
The Kimbrough Team

HAVE A QUESTION? ASK DAVE!

dave@thekimbroughteam.com

   
           
   

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