With people spending more time at home during Coronavirus lockdown, priorities have changed and many now realise how important their outdoor space is. More people are exercising at home and spending more time in their gardens and plan to continue to do so, so having access to a garden is more important since Lockdown. According to Rightmove, searches for properties with gardens was up in May 42% compared to the previous year, with not only a bigger home being a priority but also a bigger garden. Some people even accepting a longer commute to get larger outdoor space, as garden space in towns and cities is getting smaller.
A picturesque well-maintained garden is lovely feature of any home and can be a selling point and can even add value. This being the case, and with the property market recently being allowed to continue again, here are some tips to spruce up your garden and make it a selling feature of your home:
Tidy Your Garden
- Declutter – get rid of any junk
- Cut back dead growth
- If you have a pond, make sure it is clear of leaves and anything floating debris
- Put children’s toys away
- Hide the bins away, if there is nowhere to hide them you can buy bin stores to camouflage their existence
- Tidy up any communal areas too, pick up litter
- Make sure garden tools are stored away in the shed.
- Sweep up any leaves or other debris
- If you have a pet, make sure there are no tell-tale signs
- Weed and clean the patio
Repair Damage
- Repair fences – consider painting them to freshen up even futher and to offset the planting
- If you have a shed or summer house, clean it inside and give it a fresh coat of paint
- Reseed or turf bald areas of lawn
Lawn and Planting
- Mow the lawn regularly, especially ahead of viewings
- Mow the grass verges also, as this gives a good impression and enhances kerb appeal
- Weed ! Remove the weeds
- Add colour with pot plants or bedding plants
- Plant a vegetable or herb garden
Add outdoor Structure
- If you don’t already have a patio, consider having one installed or add decking for that outdoor seating
- Add garden furniture, this will help show off your garden and show how the space can be used
- If your garden is overlooked, add trellis or a pergola or tall planting to mitigate this to give a private area for relaxation
- If you have a small garden, add an outdoor mirror which gives an illusion of space and reflect light and colour
- Add outside lighting for security and for enjoying the warm evenings
