A garden probably isn’t the first thing you think of when looking for ways to boost the sale price of your property. Surprisingly, it could add between 20 and 30 per cent in value (according to a survey conducted by Raine & Horne Real Estate Agents and Turf Australia). At first glance, twenty to thirty per cent doesn’t look like much, but in some cases, it amounts to over $100,000.
An independent property valuer can help you determine how much your garden is worth. The following are included in a valuation assessment and have the potential to add value to your property:
- A small garden incorporated into the design of your home
- A greenhouse in your yard
- Acres of arable land used to farm crops or flowers
The value that a garden adds depends on its size, type and condition. A tree and a small patch of wilting plants in your yard are unlikely to add any value to your home. Meanwhile, a well-maintained garden with greenery, blossoming flowers and a lush lawn will increase its market price.
How does a garden add value to a property?
One thing we are sure of is that a bigger plot of land can increase the value of your property. The more land your house and garden take up, the higher the sale price can be set.
There are so many improvements you can make to your garden that will boost your home’s market price.
Potential buyers are drawn to gardens. If a future homeowner is accustomed to city life and wants to break away from the gloominess of the concrete jungle, they’ll be keen to pay more for a house with a beautiful garden. Gardens also create a great place to spend time and make endearing memories with your loved ones.
A yard adorned with colourful flowers and greenery is more likely to attract buyers because of its kerb appeal. A garden that compliments a house always appeals to buyers and leaves them eager to continue on the tour of your property.
When valuers do a kerbside valuation, the outcome of your property’s assessment depends on how it looks on the outside. If the exterior is well maintained, they can assume that the inside is too and report on your property accordingly. Banks and moneylenders use this method of valuation for low-risk loan requests.
Another addition that adds significant value and enhances kerb appeal is a beautifully designed wooden deck. It may require more funding, but you’ll definitely get a return on investment when you sell your house.
Does kerb appeal matter when pricing a house?
Kerb appeal is one of the most important things to consider when selling your home. Just like first impressions count when meeting someone for the first time, it also counts when potential buyers come to view your property.
A garden that beautifies the exterior of your house will make buyers more eager to continue viewing its interior. It will also create an impression of the house being orderly and highly sought after.
Can a vegetable garden increase a home’s value?
Gardens generally increase the value of homes, whether on the county side or in a more urban residential area. Both vegetable, plant, and flower gardens can give your property’s value a reasonable boost.
A high-yielding vegetable garden will help homeowners cut back on some grocery expenses in the long run. Gardens don’t only attract butterflies and bees but also more prospective buyers, which can increase the competition for and desire to buy your property.
How do I improve my garden to increase the value of my house?
Before anything else, you need to clean your garden by doing the following:
- Remove overgrown grass and weeds
- Trim and mow the lawn
- Prune trees and trim hedges
- Rake up and remove dead leaves
- Plant new plants and flowers
- Dust off/clean garden decor and lights
- Clear pathways and wooden decks
If you’re thinking about getting new plants and flowers, you much choose ones that don’t attract insects and pests. It will be a headache for the next homeowner to get rid of them in spring and summer. Problems like these have the potential to devalue homes.
Maintaining your garden by tending to it once or twice a week can prevent it from becoming a labour-intensive and stressful task just before a valuation.
Is it worthwhile building a greenhouse?
Climate change and unstable economic development drive more and more people towards becoming self-sufficient when it comes to food. Greenhouses are a great feature that homeowners can use to their advantage.
Usable features on a property are proven to increase its value. If a greenhouse fits into your budget when making improvements to your home before selling it, it can bring you a good return on investment.
Here’s why:
- It can be designed and built to fit into any type of yard
- It is low-maintenance and sustainable
- Plants will grow and yield produce all year round
If the potential buyer of your house has green fingers and is passionate about small-scale farming, chances are that they’ll be willing to pay more if there is a greenhouse on the property.
Will a garden room increase the value of my property?
Building a garden room will create extra functional space on your property. It can be used as an office, a study space, and to host and entertain guests. Not only that but there will also be opportunities to generate rental income if it is converted into a living space.
Before transforming a garden room into a space fit to occupy, you’ll need to get permission from local authorities and have your plans approved. You’ll also have to re-purpose it following national building standards and regulations.
Do garden sheds add value to homes?
In short, yes. Sheds, storage spaces and workshops are more favoured by home buyers. A good quality garden shed constructed with durable material like timber or colourbond sheeting can increase the value of your home.
A shed that compliments or matches the appearance of your house and garden can also add to kerb appeal.
Summary
The value a garden adds to your property depends on its size and appearance. A bigger garden that covers a larger plot of land in your yard increases its value. Beautiful gardens enhance kerb appeal and attract more buyers. The more people view your property, the higher your chances are of selling it.
Scarcity is one of the factors considered during a valuation. Something like a greenhouse or shed could improve your property’s market price if there is a demand but a low supply. Extra storage space and built structures in your yard or garden will boost its market value too.
While our valuers aren’t gardeners or experts when it comes to gardening, they have the knowledge, training and certification to determine the value a garden can add to your property. Contact us today for an obligation-free quote.
