Garden improvements can add as much as 20% to a property’s value. There are lots of ways to transform your backyard for the better without spending too much in the process. Here are just a few improvements to consider.

Build a shed

A shed is one of the simplest ways to add value. Sheds provide useful extra storage space, which appeals to many buyers. A shed may even have the potential to be converted into an outside office. Try to construct something spacious and sturdy and keep it well maintained. Metal sheds require less maintenance than wooden ones, although may still need repainting every five years.

Create a social space

A patio or decking area can also bring value to your home. It’s worth decorating this space with furniture such as chairs, tables and patio canopies to make it more appealing. You could even install a fire pit or add some exterior lighting to brighten the space up. A patio or decking area can be DIYed to save money, however hiring a professional might result in something that last and doesn’t have to be meticulously maintained. After all, you don’t your patio/decking to look unkempt or have weeds growing out of it as this will potentially devalue your property by making this feature look ugly.  

Consider artificial grass

When it comes to your lawn, artificial grass actually attracts more buyers than real grass in most cases. It’s lower maintenance – it doesn’t require regular trimming and won’t dry up in the summer. This appeals to many people who might not have the time to get heavily involved in gardening. That said, you may be able to appeal to keen gardeners with real grass, so long as you keep it in tip-top condition.

Repair broken fencing

Damaged fencing can be an eyesore and could bring down the value of your home. If you’re planning on selling your home, get this fixed up first. Adding a new coat of paint might help to spice up your fencing – just make sure you don’t choose a controversial colour such as bright yellow. If your neighbour’s fence is damaged it could be worth asking them to get it fixed before valuing your home.

Keep it groomed

General tidiness will help to make your garden look more presentable and further attract buyers, pushing up the value of your home. Make an effort to rid your garden of weeds and cut back any overgrown shrubs. If you’ve got real grass, mow the garden before getting your property valued and keep it trimmed whilst you’re getting viewings. You may also want to clear up any mess leftover from winter such as dead leaves and twigs if you’re getting your home valued around this time of year. If you’ve got a pond, similarly take steps to free this of weeds and refill it with clean water. If your garden is overgrown and you feel this may be a bit of a challenge, you could always hire a professional gardener to try and spruce it up and get it back to it’s former glory.