Any smart homeowner worth their salt knows that a property must be maintained in order to keep its value and possibly even increase it. Buying a house is like making an investment where you can continually increase profits by upgrading, renovating, and designing different aspects.
However, it’s important to note that there are plenty of bad decisions that can end up costing you more while only providing a small percentage of additional value to the house. We’re here to shed some light on the subject for you.
One of the best ways you can increase value almost immediately is by investing in landscaping. Fixing up the garden and outside area is a great way to provide good curb appeal and spend less doing so.
Working with nature has its benefits – it’s easy to make the area look classy and spacious by utilizing the elements to your advantage. There are plenty of landscaping tips out there, but today we’ll focus on a few of the ones that will save you the most money while reaping near-instantaneous benefits for you.
Construct Exterior Shelter
According to market research, constructing a small exterior structure such as a shed can add up to £60,000 in value to your home. More than 21 million in the UK now own a shed in their yard.
The value of constructing one is multiplied many times over, as the shed can be used as a storage area, workbench, or even as an office. Plus, the cost of building one isn’t that high; as long as it’s well constructed, the utility counts more than the material.
Other exterior objects to consider adding are tables, chairs, and perhaps a dining area. These are all relatively inexpensive items and will serve to create a warm and inviting garden atmosphere.
Renovate Patio/Paving
Renovate Patio/PavingA significant number of buyers have stated that a sleek and modern patio or outdoor pavement makes all the difference when it comes to sealing the deal. Appearance, especially in the garden, is starting to make an impact on buyers’ decisions. In fact, a recent study has shown that compared to five years ago, 37% of those wanting to buy a home in the UK eyes on spending more time in the garden.
Consider upgrading walkways or adding potted plants along them to make an otherwise dull and boring walk in the garden become a colourful, exciting, and eye-catching experience.
According to CostFigures, the price of fill dirt to be used during your patio or paving renovation can range from about £6 – £14 per cubic yard. Such pricing can differ from one place to another. In the UK for example, fill dirt can cost you anywhere from £22 – £28 per ton, excluding VAT.
Increase Privacy
Privacy and security are one of the biggest concerns of potential buyers when inspecting a garden area in a home. High and secure fences are needed to deter intruders and stop pets from escaping.
Snoopy neighbours and prying eyes are also issues that need to be addressed. One easy way to accomplish both goals is to grow bushes or trees in strategic locations. This will give your garden a safe and protective vibe; a place where a one can get some me-time to perhaps contemplate and reflect.
You may also consider installing a pergola or trellis to add an extra layer of privacy and have a nice frame for flowering vines to grow.
Install Outdoor Lighting
By having light sources installed in the garden, it can be utilized at night as a rest area or even a quiet workplace. A lot of house viewings take place during the evenings, so having a well-lit and clean garden will give a good first impression.
A warm glow in just the right places can highlight certain portions that you want to be really visible. Having all the extra spaces in the garden mean BBQs evenings, parties, and other activities can now take place in an open area and bring the house to life.
You may be thinking of starting a garden or do some landscaping as a hobby or as a way to pass the time. Whatever the reason may be, you should always keep in mind that hobby or not, a wonderful garden or an excellent landscape ups your home’s value in the market in ways unimaginable.
