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Some days you just want a space that feels a little different from the rest of the house. Somewhere you can sit quietly, work on a project, or zone out without distractions. You don’t always need a big renovation or costly home extension. Sometimes, the change starts in the garden with a summer house.
Planning Your Summerhouse Before You Start
So, you’re thinking about a summerhouse, but you can’t place it anywhere. Before picking a style, design, or how you’ll use it, consider the following:
A summer house brings joy to everyday life. It’s that place you sneak off to when the house feels too noisy – a spot for peace, a book, or a brew. Some turn it into their “no kids allowed” zone. Others into a space for garden parties that don’t end when the drizzle starts.
If you’re on the fence about getting a summer house, you’re not alone. Have a quick look at what summer houses are and the styles people go for. There’s plenty to see, and these reads can help you get a feel for it:
- The Ultimate Summerhouse Buying Guide
- Black Friday Buying Guide for Sheds, Log Cabins & Other Garden Buildings
How Does a Summerhouse Add Property Value?
A summer house adds value to a property by providing an additional leisure feature that enhances garden functionality. Most buyers are drawn to the idea of a garden hideaway, especially when it meets their needs. Look after your summer house, and it becomes a real selling point that catches the eye.
How Much Value Can a Summer House Add?
A quality garden summer house can add between 5% and 20% to its value, according to garden experts. Factors such as quality and condition can affect this percentage. But overall, this estimation is pretty sound.
Say you purchased your summer house for £2,000, and your property is worth £300,000. That works out as a return of £13,000 at the low end of the 5% value boost. For a 15% increase, the return would be around £43,000.
Of course, a well-preserved unit is more likely to reach the higher end of this range. The value may drop if things don’t go as planned, and you can’t expect much if it’s in need of major repairs.
Does the Lifespan of a Summer House Affect Its Value?
Yes, a high-quality summer house can guarantee maximum returns on your investment. That means a long lifespan with minimal maintenance, which is a big plus for most home seekers.
Pressure treated summer houses, if well maintained, can last for 15 to 20 years. This makes them a solid long-term investment. There may be an initial cost, but you gain a lasting way to boost your property’s worth.
Note: Pressure-treated summerhouses in the UK market usually start at £1,000.
Find out more: Summer House Maintenance Guide
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Summer House?
The cost of building a summer house depends on the size, style, and materials used. It will also vary depending on your region. A basic design will cost around £500, while a larger, bespoke unit can reach the £10,000 range.
This pricing information is provided by My Job Quote.
How Can You Maximise the Value of Your Summer House?
Consider adding summer house insulation to make it usable year-round. Adding electricity opens up more options, too. You could run a small desk lamp for work, plug in a laptop, or install soft lighting for evening gatherings.
Also, be sure to check summer house planning permission ahead of time. This can save you from costly delays or fines later.
Ready to Learn More About Summer Houses?
A 5 to 15% property value increase is no small figure. However, before jumping in, it’s worth exploring how to maximise the perks of your investment.
Continue reading: How to Use a Summer House
