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Your home isn’t just a place to live, but also an investment. This is especially true if you’re planning to sell later or want to get more value from it. Luckily for you, there are ways to improve it, and a garden building is a great starting point.
But how can one affect your home’s value? Let’s find out.
What Are Garden Buildings?
Garden buildings are versatile structures that serve as an extension of your home. They provide additional functional space while complementing the overall aesthetics of your property. Some common types include the following:
- Sheds: The ideal outdoor storage solutions for gardening tools, equipment, garden furniture, etc.
- Log cabins: Made from interlocking logs, providing a rustic and natural aesthetic. They can be used as extended living areas, offices, or retreats.
- Summer houses: Used as a retreat or a space for relaxation and entertainment all year long.
- Garden offices: A tranquil environment separate from the main house. They provide a professional setting without the need for commuting. Rightmove reports that the proportion of UK property listings mentioning “garden office” is now 11× higher than ten years ago (+1046%). It’s definitely seen as a selling point.
- Playhouses: Specifically designed for children’s play and imagination. They offer a safe and fun space for kids to engage in creative play and make lasting childhood memories.
- Greenhouses: Garden buildings designed for plant cultivation, providing a controlled environment.
What Are the Factors Affecting Property Value
Property value depends on things buyers pay attention to. This includes location, size, condition, amenities, and how much demand there is. These all affect how much a property is worth.
Adding garden features
Garden improvements can affect property value. A tidy, well-kept garden makes a good first impression and adds to the overall look of the home.
Garden buildings vs other improvements
Garden buildings offer benefits that other upgrades don’t. Unlike interior renovations, they give extra usable space without major changes to the house. Homeowners can use the space in different ways to suit their needs.
Compared to traditional extensions, garden buildings can be more cost-effective. Moreover, they can be less disruptive to the existing property. Most also have a quicker construction process and can be installed in areas with limited space.
Garden rooms also make a property stand out from others. Garden buildings can be used as offices, studios, or guest rooms, giving buyers more options.
Here are some ideas future buyers would appreciate:
The Value-Adding Potential of Garden Buildings
To maximise the value-added effect of a garden building, consider the following:
1. Quality construction
Ensure the garden building is constructed using high-quality materials. Most importantly, it should meet local building regulations. To ensure the structure contributes to long-term value, invest in:
- proper insulation
- durable materials
- attention to detail
2. Design and aesthetics
Aesthetically pleasing garden buildings tend to have a greater positive impact on property value. Opt for a design that harmonises with the overall style of your property. Also, go for something that complements the surrounding landscape.
3. Functionality and flexibility
Choose a garden building that serves a practical purpose and offers versatility. This provides added value by catering to various potential buyers’ needs.
Future buyers might be attracted to what the garden building allows them to do, whether for storage or leisure purposes. A garden playhouse will offer little added value if your future buyer has no plans to have children. But a multi-purpose garden room has potential. HomeOwners Alliance suggests that adding a garden room can add up to £17,000 to a property’s value.
4. Maintenance and upkeep
Regular maintenance of the garden building is essential for preserving its value. Keep the structure well-maintained and ensure it remains in good condition. Address any necessary repairs as soon as possible; don’t overlook the issues. A properly maintained unit will continue to contribute to property value over time.
5. Market demand and trends
Consider the preferences and demands of the local property market. Research current trends and potential buyer requirements. This can help you align your garden building with market expectations. In return, maximising its appeal and value.
By considering these, you can enhance your property value through a garden building! You can provide an attractive and functional addition that appeals to potential buyers.
Return on Investment (ROI) for Garden Buildings
This involves assessing the financial benefits they can bring in relation to the initial cost of installation. While ROI can vary depending on multiple factors, understanding the key influences on ROI is crucial.
1. Location
The location of your property plays a significant role in determining the potential ROI of a garden building. Properties in high-demand areas or desirable neighbourhoods tend to yield higher returns. For one, they attract more buyers willing to pay a premium for additional features. In some areas, a garden building might be seen as an extravagance where the extra outdoor space might have been useful. Or it could be perceived as a theft magnet.
2. Quality
The quality of the garden building itself influences ROI. High-quality materials and construction methods result in a durable, attractive structure that maintains its value over time. A well-built and maintained garden building will likely provide a higher ROI than a unit of inferior quality.
The more permanent the building appears to be, the more likely a surveyor will allow it to contribute to the property valuation. Brick outbuildings may have a greater impact here, but they have a higher initial cost. Building on a concrete base can
On the other hand, a low quality building may detract from the property value if the potential buyer sees it as something they will need to remove or replace.
3. Size and design
A well-designed garden building and appropriately sized impact ROI. It offers greater potential for maximising ROI. So, consider the optimal balance between available space, functionality, and market demand.
4. Property value increase
A few factors can affect the financial benefits derived from the investment, such as:
- the local market conditions
- demand for garden buildings
- the perceived value of additional usable space
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular upkeep is crucial for maintaining or increasing property value. Here’s how regular upkeep contributes to value preservation and ensures longevity:
- Structural integrity. Inspect for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or rot, and address them promptly.
- Aesthetics. Clean the exterior, repaint or stain if necessary. Also, maintain the landscaping around the structure.
- Functional maintenance. Regularly inspect and maintain the roof and gutters of the garden building. Clear debris, check for leaks, and ensure proper drainage.
- Seasonal care. Adapt the maintenance routine to seasonal changes.
- Professional inspections. Schedule professional inspections periodically to assess the overall condition of the garden building.
- Keep documentation. Keep a record of all maintenance, repairs, and upgrades performed on the unit. This documentation can be useful when selling the property.
Garden building upkeep ideas that can help:
Round-up
A well-designed and properly maintained garden building has the potential to increase the value of your house. Consider factors like location, quality, and market demand to maximise the value-added effect. And with regular upkeep, it can be a valuable investment that enhances your property and its market appeal.
Get a potentially higher offer with these tips: Garden Features that Increase Property Value
