Are you selling your home soon to move into a more luxurious property? Whether you’re in the early stages of considering putting your home on the market or already preparing for a house move, in order to get the best price possible, you’ll need to make your home as attractive to buyers as you can. But how can you do this?
While there are many different areas inside your home that you’ll want to focus on, from ensuring the utmost in cleanliness and prioritising an uncluttered and homely feel for prospective buyers, it’s important not to neglect your gardens in the process.
Improving your garden and outside spaces can certainly boost the appeal of your property, while also adding value, no matter what time of year you’re selling up, so pay close attention to this when preparing your home for the big sale.
How gardens add value
It’s predicted that we’ll see a change in fortunes for the housing market in 2024. After property prices fell last year, it’s forecasted that there will be a three per cent rise in the coming months, which makes it a promising time to consider that all-important house move.
In order to get a great price for your home, upgrading your garden can both boost kerb appeal and significantly enhance the overall value of your property. In fact, the Post Office Money study found that investing around £2,750 on garden landscaping can add as much as 77% to the value of your house.
Beyond being a space for relaxation, gardens play a key role in shaping first impressions. A well cared for outdoor space is often one of the first things a potential buyer will see, so it’s important that you show this area at its best.
Top garden improvements
To give your garden a new lease of life in time for your property’s listing, here are some things you can prioritise to make for a more welcoming space and to also add value.
Landscaping and design
Invest in professional landscaping to create an aesthetically pleasing and well-organised garden. Consider incorporating features such as flower beds, pathways, and borders and be creative with any awkward corners or stepped areas you may have.
Lawn maintenance
Regular mowing, fertilisation, and addressing any bald patches will contribute to a healthy and vibrant lawn, a plus for buyers on first glance. This simple step can significantly boost kerb appeal and create an inviting space, while reassuring anyone interested in your property that it will be easy to maintain.
Fencing and boundaries
Ensuring that your garden is well-defined and secure by maintaining or upgrading fencing is an important part of selling your home with ease. A tidy outdoor area with robust fencing is not only visually appealing, but also adds to the overall safety and privacy of the property, which is especially important if potential buyers have dogs to keep contained.
Pool
If you have a pool installed in your garden then make sure that it looks inviting and clean – potential buyers will need to see it in the best condition possible. Make sure it’s uncovered and arrange some loungers around the poolside with towels to showcase the area to its best potential.
Patio or decking
Adding a patio or decking creates an ideal spot for entertaining guests, enjoying a quiet evening or holding a hot tub. Ensure that these spaces are well-maintained and consider staging them with outdoor furniture, and dining accessories if the weather is good, to showcase their potential.
Planting trees and shrubs
Strategically placed trees and shrubs not only enhance the beauty of the garden, but also offer shade and privacy. Mature trees can provide instant character and a sense of permanence to the outdoor space while attracting birds and other wildlife to the area.
Outdoor lighting
Illuminating your garden with well-placed outdoor lighting will keep the space useable well into the night while adding a touch of elegance. Consider accent lighting for key features like trees and install functional lighting for pathways and sitting areas.
By making some updates to your garden, you not only enhance its appeal, but also contribute to the long-term value of your property. You might find that this is one of the main things potential buyers love about your home.
