We all know that maximising our gardens adds value to our homes. But, how do you actually achieve this? It’s always hard to put precise numbers on the exact amount you can add to the price of your house (after all, who can predict the housing market). But, what is for sure, is that you’ll never lose money if you intelligently invest in your backyard.
If you want to add those magic numbers to the end of your sale price, you’ll be happy to know that you don’t have to spend a fortune. As you’ll see, simplicity sells.
Add A Canopy
Any prospective homeowner will love the sight of a covered area in the backyard. A canopy doesn’t have to be expensive, and it can add some serious value to the price of a house. A canopy increases the living space of your property and turns your backyard into a year-round, 24-hour space.
If you don’t have space for a canopy, at least try and extend your living space by other means. A small external section of paving can create a beautiful little courtyard or terrace that will add value in no time. Some cleverly placed pot plants and well-chosen outdoor furniture will complete the look.
Make It Low-Maintenance
You may love gardening and think hedges, rose gardens and garden beds full of flowers look nice, but for prospective buyers, it can just seem like a whole lot of work. Keep it simple and low-maintenance so that when people are inspecting your home, they’ll picture weekends relaxing in the outdoor space, not weeding it.
Make Sure It’s Private
This may seem like an obvious point, but, if neighbours can see into your backyard, that’s a definite turn-off. By adding a privacy screen or some modular fencing, you can increase the privacy of your backyard, both quickly and cheaply, and you’ll add money to your home’s value in the process.
Don’t Add a Swimming Pool
If you already have a swimming pool, that’s great, but don’t add one in the hopes of increasing your sale price. Swimming pools are a great asset for a home, but they can also be a deterrent to a prospective purchaser. People may perceive a pool as a waste of money and a lot of work. Spend that money on something else.
Design Your Garden
Here are a few ideas to make your garden more appealing, thereby attracting numerous competing bids at auction:
- Make sure your garden design is in keeping with your house. Everything should flow from the front door to the back fence.
- Add outdoor lighting to make your garden more accessible and attractive.
- Include a BBQ and some outdoor furniture to ensure that lived-in look. This allows potential buyers to imagine how the outdoor space can be utilised.
- An alfresco/outdoor kitchen area is a great investment. Buyers love these types of areas, and they are always impressive. Alfresco/outdoor kitchens don’t have to be expensive if you’re smart with your choices.
- Sheds are very much in vogue. Sheds can be built cheaply and quickly and provide potential buyers with multiple options for their use – from gyms to outdoor offices, and much, much more.
- Don’t be afraid to install ‘luxury’ pieces, such as water features and fireplaces. Luxury features can be extremely impressive when undertaken correctly and can also tap into the primal urges of a prospective buyer. These features can be as cheap (or as expensive) as you like, thereby giving you immense freedom and choice.
What To Do If You’ve Got An Upcoming Viewing
Don’t neglect the garden. The garden should be thought of in the same way as any other space in your home. Get it prepared and make sure it is looking at its best. This entails sweeping the paths, emptying the clothesline and making sure there are no landmines left behind by your pooch.
Make sure everything is in good condition. Give the decking a good lick of varnish and make sure all the outdoor lights are working. Prune all shrubs and trees, and make sure anything dead or dying is removed.
Above all, the aim of the game is to present a garden that is begging to be enjoyed. If you do the bare minimum, you’ll be rewarded as such. Conversely, if you put in some serious effort, you’ll be rewarded accordingly and see those sale prices heading north.
So, if you’re about to sell your home, why not contact the very talented landscapers at Everlast Services to give your home a complete garden makeover. The project can be as big or as small as you like and we offer free, no-obligation quotes on all of our work. Get in touch today.
