Spring is prime time for house sales — and if you’re thinking of listing, your garden could be more important than you realise.
According to new research from Ronseal, 61 per cent of UK homeowners say a badly kept garden would affect their decision to buy a property, while 31 per cent think their own outdoor space could reduce their home’s value.
'A garden in poor condition can slow the sales process as it reduces emotional appeal and introduces uncertainty for buyers,' says David Cooper, director at Redbrik estate agents. 'Even if the house itself is in good order, a neglected garden can limit interest and lead to more cautious offers.’
With 72 per cent of homeowners saying they’d improve their garden before listing, here are the features experts say could help attract buyers — and the ones that may put them off.
The garden features that can decrease value
1. Poorly maintained garden
‘Overgrown or poorly maintained gardens are a common deterrent,' reveals David. 'When a garden appears neglected, buyers often assume there will be significant time, effort or cost involved in bringing it up to standard, which can affect how they view the property as a whole.’
It takes just a few hours of TLC to give a garden a new lease of life. If you’re short on time, Jimmy Englezos, Ronseal’s DIY expert and senior brand manager, recommend focusing on the areas that our eyes are naturally drawn to:
- visual space
- the condition of the ground
- fencing or boundary walls.
When turning your attention to the ground, Jimmy says: 'A dedicated decking cleaner can be applied in less than an hour, or if you have paving stones, simply spray with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to remove any algae or grime.
'Finally, give any fencing a refresh, even just opting for a fun colour can make the garden feel loved and looked after – sage green or warm neutrals are always a good option to go for.'
2. Wet ground
Drainage issues are another concern. 'Gardens that feel persistently wet or boggy can raise questions about usability and longer-term problems, which may make buyers more hesitant,' warns David.
3. An unusual layout
'Impractical or awkward layouts can reduce appeal,’ says David. 'Very steep gardens, unusually shaped plots or spaces dominated by large structures can make it harder for buyers to see how the garden would realistically work for them.'
The garden features that can increase value
1. Low maintenance
'A well-designed, low-maintenance garden adds considerable appeal. Buyers are drawn to outdoor spaces that feel usable and easy to look after, particularly where there is a clear layout with defined areas for seating, planting and lawn,' says David.
Jimmy adds: ‘Creating zones within a garden doesn’t have to be an overwhelming or expensive task. If you have any potted plants, try to concentrate them into one area and do the same with any garden furniture.’
Tip: Dispose of any unused or broken furniture, and store gardening equipment away during viewings.
2. Privacy
‘Privacy is highly valued,’ David says. ‘Gardens that are not overlooked, or that benefit from good screening through fencing, walls or mature planting, tend to feel more desirable and peaceful, which can positively influence a buyer’s perception of value.’
Jimmy recommends investing in a new fence or trellis to improve privacy. He adds that even just 'applying a fresh lick of fence paint can help make the space feel less vulnerable.'
3. Space for hosting
A practical entertaining space is increasingly important for new homeowners. 'Patios, decking areas or outdoor dining spaces help buyers imagine how they would use the garden day-to-day, which can make a property more attractive overall,' says David.
Jimmy adds: ‘Even if your outdoor furniture has seen better days, bringing it back to life with garden furniture paint in a vibrant colour can go a long way in helping the space feel ready to host.’
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