Gardens have long been desirable and known to add value to property, and with the increase in hybrid working in recent years, the desire for outdoor space can make for a key area that can add both value and appeal to your home.

If your property has a garden, we’ve put together a few ideas that may help enhance its value and charm this Springtime, especially if you are looking to advertise your home for sale in due course.

1. Present Your Garden Well

A well-maintained garden, though it may not directly add monetary value, significantly impacts buyers’ perceptions if you’re looking to sell your home in the near future. A neglected garden can deter potential buyers, making garden upkeep as essential as home maintenance. Key steps include:

• Feeding, mowing, and watering the lawn.
• Removing weeds from lawns, flower beds, paths, and patios.
• Repairing damaged fencing or trellis, and treating with wood preserver or paint.
• Cutting back overgrown plants or trees.
• Jet washing pathways and patio slabs.

2. Showcase Your Entertaining Space

Outdoor entertaining spaces can really enhance the appeal of a garden. You could consider –

• Installing a larger patio area.
• Building a deck space for barbecues. Buyers may be more likely to be drawn to spaces where they can entertain family and friends, so an inviting outdoor area can significantly boost your property’s appeal.

3. Stage Your Garden

Just as staging the interior of a home can help sell it, staging your garden can have a similar effect. By setting up a table and chairs on your patio or deck and adding a parasol, you help buyers visualise themselves enjoying the space, which can make your home more appealing.

4. Show Off Your Garden’s Practical Side

Storage is a top priority for buyers, and this extends to garden spaces. A well-maintained garden shed for storing bikes, lawnmowers, and other equipment is a strong selling point. Ensure the shed is secure with strong padlocks and regularly maintained.

5. Make Your Garden Secure

Security is crucial for buyers with pets or children. Ensure your garden is safe by filling any gaps in fences or gates and adding locks where necessary. A secure garden can be a significant asset and increase your property’s attractiveness.

6. Add Planting to ‘Complete’ Your Garden

A ‘move-in ready’ garden, much like a well-decorated house, is a strong selling point. Adding mature plants can make the garden feel complete. If you’re not keen on extensive gardening, potted plants are a great alternative. They add colour and can be taken with you when you move.

7. Add a Water Feature

Unique features like water elements can make your garden stand out. Water features create a tranquil atmosphere and make your garden more appealing to buyers, adding a sense of uniqueness and charm.

8. Be Creative with Outdoor Lighting

Lighting can transform your garden, especially for evening viewings. Quality outdoor lighting adds ambiance and highlights your garden’s best features, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

9. Add a Focal Point

Adding a summerhouse or garden office can provide a stunning focal point and practical space. These structures can serve various purposes, from playrooms for families to home offices for professionals, enhancing your garden’s usability and appeal.

10. Make It Private

Privacy is a major concern for many buyers. If your garden is overlooked, it can detract from its value. Creating privacy with hedges, relocating patios or decks to secluded corners, or using climbing plants and privacy screens can solve this issue.

How Much Value Does a Garden Add?

In cities, a well-maintained garden can add over £45,000 to a property’s value¹, potentially increasing it by up to 20%¹. Given these figures, investing in your garden is well worth the effort. From adding practical storage to creating beautiful, private spaces, enhancing your garden can significantly boost your home’s appeal and value.

Do Garden Buildings Add Value?

Yes, structures like sheds, garages, and garden rooms add substantial value by providing additional storage and living space. Home offices can be especially appealing to buyers who need work-from-home spaces.

By following these tips, you can transform your garden into a valuable asset, helping to making your home more appealing to buyers and potentially increasing its market value.

Sources

Good Homes (2019) How to increase your home’s value by over £45,000. Available at: https://www.goodhomesmagazine.com/garden/increase-home-value/ [Accessed 21 May 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 30^th May 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.