Hey there, tree lovers! Welcome to the first part of our 3-part series, Greening Your Home! We will explore ways to make your home more energy-efficient while saving you money. Today, let’s dive into the awesome benefits of planting trees in your yard and how local programs in the Seattle and East Side areas can make it super easy and affordable.

Did you know that by adding a tree to your yard, you can increase your property value and save on energy costs?

Trees can help for so many reasons. Larger trees in yards and as street trees can add 3 to 15 percent to home values throughout neighborhoods, enhancing curb appeal. Well-placed trees can shade buildings, windows, and air-conditioning units, reducing air conditioning needs by 30 percent and saving 20 to 50 percent in heating costs. Additionally, trees can help with water drainage, reducing the risk of flooding. And, of course, who could forget the beauty added?

But maybe the cost or your lack of a green thumb is holding you off.

No worries since there are some great programs in the Seattle and Eastside area that can help!

Why Trees Help Your Home

• Trees boost curb appeal. The presence of larger trees in yards and as street trees can add 3 to 15 percent to home values throughout neighborhoods.

• Trees can shade buildings, windows and air-conditioning units. Homes with well-situated trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and save 20 to 50 percent in heating costs.

• Trees can help with water drainage and water retention in the dryer months to help with your lawn.

Redmond Free Tree Giveaway

Hi Redmond neighbors! As your local real estate expert, I’m excited to share the City of Redmond’s Tree Giveaway Program, a wonderful way to enhance your property and help our community thrive. This initiative supports Redmond’s goal to expand our tree canopy and build a more sustainable, beautiful city.

If you live, rent, or work in the 98052 area, you can take part and help out. That includes homeowners, renters, small businesses, schools, and community groups. Planting trees not only adds beauty and shade but also improves air quality and helps manage rainwater.

To join in, start by calling 811 to mark your planting spot, then apply online starting July 12, 2025. Families can request a few trees, and groups can request more. Free mulch and a yard sign are available, too. Tree pickup happens September 27th at the municipal campus parking lot. If you’re looking for a tree the city of Redmond is looking to help!

Seattle Trees For Neighborhoods

For our Seattle homeowners: here’s a great way to invest in your property! Trees for Neighborhoods is helping residents plant free trees right in their yards or planting strips. Since it began, this program has added thousands of trees in Seattle, bringing more shade to our beautiful neighborhoods.

Along with your free tree, you’ll get expert help picking the right type and location, plus planting guidance, a watering bag, and mulch. If approved, you’ll attend a short virtual workshop, then the city will deliver the tree directly to your home.

Thinking about planting in 2025? Sign up for email updates now. You’ll get a heads-up on tree choices and a direct link to apply this summer. It’s an easy step toward greener living and greater home value!

Keep a look out for any local community tree programs that might offer reduced-priced trees native to your area. Sometimes these events can be held once a year and include help with planting and how-to’s on tree care. 

You aren’t the only one looking to plant a tree for your home. Look out for any programs near you! Happy planting!