Great gardens equals summer sales success

It’s true that the property market cools slightly during July and August but if you’re looking to sell your home for a higher price, look no further than a summer sale, as a new survey has proven.  

Agents have long been united in their assessment of buyers who actively look for a new property in the summer months – these are serious purchasers who don’t want the distraction of a holiday to get in the way of their moving plans.   

Often, summer buyers have a pressing deadline or specific circumstances that compel them to book viewings during the vacation season. They’re often the people who want to get on without delay, making offers and pushing ahead to exchange.  

Now a survey by Home Sale Pack has found an additional perk to selling in the summer. Buyers active this season are heavily influenced by gardens – and will pay more for the ability to own a slice of the great outdoors.  

More than 1,500 UK homebuyers were questioned to establish how the appeal of good outside space would affect their home search and property offers, specifically noting their behaviour in summer, compared to winter. The results included:  

90% of homebuyers felt gardens and outdoor spaces were important features when searching for their next home

68% of buyers felt gardens and outside areas held more appeal when searching during the summer, compared to winter

64% of buyers said they’d be more likely to book a viewing of a property with good outdoor space during the summer

61% of purchasers were more likely to submit a summer offer for a home with a desirable garden

39% say they were increasingly likely to offer a higher price for a property with a great garden during the summer months

When quizzed in more detail regarding the most important aspects that make a great outdoor space, homebuyers ranked a well-kept lawn as their most preferred feature, followed by trees, flower beds and a garden house or office. Aspects that didn’t impress as much included jacuzzis, treehouses, outdoor bars, BBQ pit/pizza ovens and swimming pools  

Whether you’re considering selling your home imminently or already have a property on the market, your garden could seal the deal. Here’s our list of top 10 tips for maximising your outside area’s appeal in the summer:  

• Ensure the lawn is mowed, edged and clear of pet deposits
• Keep beds, border and pots weed free
• Tidy away garden toys when not in use
• Jet wash decks, paths and patios to remove grime
• Remove plants that are dying, brown or diseased
• Consider adding some in-bloom annual plants to containers and borders
• Set up garden furniture, accessorising to make the areas look inviting
• Prune back overhanging shrubs and trees, sweeping up fallen debris
• Remove any rubbish, rubble and broken items
• Avoid hanging washing out before photographs and viewings 

Why not capitalise on the serious buyers in the market this summer? We can provide you with an accurate valuation and take photographs of your home, inside and out, ready to make a listing live on the leading property portals. Get in touch for advice.