Buyer demand in the housing market has been altered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though gardens have long been a priority for buyers, listed in the top three buyer search terms in 2019 according to Zoopla, it appears as though demand for gardens and outdoor space has risen sharply since the housing market re-opened.
Rightmove’s housing market analyst Miles Shipside said; “During lockdown people have been re-evaluating what their must-haves are, and both buyers and renters are craving a home with its own outside space rather than a flat. Usually home-movers tell us the kitchen photographs are the most important when they’re looking at a property advert, but now agents should consider giving greater prominence to pictures of gardens and outdoor spaces to attract the attention of prospective renters and buyers.”
If you plan on selling your home, it is imperative you make the most of your garden space. Even if you don’t plan on selling your home soon, you can benefit from making your garden safer and more secure, but in a competitive market, you might find these improvements make all the difference in selling your home.
The demand for outdoor space is obvious
The first monthly market survey report from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) since the housing market re-opened provides a number of reasons why vendors must focus on the outside of their property.
The survey reported:
- 81% of agents predict an increase in desire for homes which have a garden or a balcony
- 74% of respondents predict an increase in demand for homes located close to a green space
- 68% of respondents believe properties with privacy and less communal space will be in greater demand
Simon Rubinsohn is the Chief Economist at RICS and he said; “There are already signs that those looking to buy a house are responding to the conditions created by the pandemic by seeking out properties with gardens or balconies and nearer green space. These and other similar features are likely to increasingly command a premium over higher-density urban locations, according to respondents to the survey.”
Gardens matter for property buyers
There is consensus that outdoor space is important. Of course, when outdoor space becomes a common feature in the market, there is a need to ensure your garden stands out for the right reasons.
This is why staging outdoor space is going to become a critical feature in the property market.
Consider these areas when staging outdoor space to sell your home
- Always start with the decluttering and cleaning process, as this creates space and makes the area look more attractive
- Carry out repair work, focusing on paths, property walls and property doors and windows
- Create borders around different types of plants and flowers
- Mow the loan and ensure all borders are tidy
- Ensure all border barriers, such as fences, are in good condition
- If you have space for people to gather, consider adding garden furniture
Garden security tips to consider
If you are keen to boost the security standard of your garden, please consider the following tips:
- Invest in a good standard lock for all sheds or outdoor storage units
- Install adequate lighting around the outside of your property
- Mark your valuable items with a UV marker pen or etching
- Review and improve the condition of perimeter fences in your garden
- Review the condition of window frames and doors
- If you have a garden shed or storage unit, review its condition, making sure it is robust
Whatever your circumstances are, or what move you would like to make next; we are here for you. Stones Residential prides itself on offering the best standard of service to our clients, and we work hard to help you achieve your property goals. If you would like to arrange an appointment or get more details on how we can help you sell your property, contact us today online or by calling us on 020 8954 0045.
