It should come as no surprise that a garden can add value to your property. Outdoor space is becoming increasingly valued, especially with the lockdown measures currently in place. Gardens directly impact the size of land that your property is on, so even from a sq. ft. perspective it can impact the amount a house should sell for.
Aside from this footprint boost, gardens are a clear opportunity to showcase your property’s potential and so we’ve put together a few things that you can do to help get the most value from your garden.
Gardening
If you’re looking to renovate your garden to sell a property, it’s best to keep it simple, that way it showcases its potential to both people looking for something low-maintenance and easy, and people looking for a project.
Whilst a large, ornate garden can be aesthetically pleasing, they are also obviously high-maintenance. This will impact the number of people that your house appeals to, with some people being put off by the amount of work they see in the upkeep. The more complicated and higher-maintenance the garden, the more value it may have to the right buyer, but the harder that buyer is to find. We find it best to strike a balance somewhere in the middle, so your garden still produces value, but is not only attractive to the keenest gardeners.
Non-Living Features
For many people, a shed or similar flexible outdoor space can be a big draw as it highlights the garden as an extension of the house. Whether additional storage or full office space, sheds help to demonstrate the potential of a space and appeal to possible buyers.
Splitting your garden into zones has a similar effect. Clear areas for seating, gardening, and other activities (e.g. a climbing frame) will allow potential buyers to visualise the garden as a space they can use, and hopefully encourage an offer!
Another consideration for your garden is the degree to which it is overlooked; if there’s open fencing between you and your neighbour then maybe it’s time to think about replacing it- you may be fine talking to your neighbour when you’re mowing the lawn, but there’s a very real possibility that a potential buyer will not feel the same way. It’s also worth making sure this fencing and any gates are secure, and that taller structures such as fences and trees are not blocking the light either into the garden or the house.
Don’t Forget the Front Garden
If your front garden has the space, an accessible driveway offering off-road parking is a huge appeal to potential buyers. As well as this, you should make sure that your front is in as good- if not better condition than the back. Kerb appeal is important, and a tidy front garden will give you that, as well as help to make a good first impression during viewings. Even if the garden is entirely comprised of a paved driveway, making sure it’s washed down and weeds are prevented with a weed killer are relatively cheap and simple ways to keep it looking its best.
For a free valuation of your property (and garden), contact us today. As of May 2020, Simpson and Weekley are offering virtual valuations so get in touch now to speak to one of our experts.