The Moving Planner Blog

When it comes to decorating or renovating a property, most home owners tend to concentrate on the inside of the house rather than the outside. But it’s worth making the effort to remodel a garden, even a small one, because it can help to boost the value of your entire property.  So before you schedule your professional moving company, get outside and work on your green thumb!

If the garden is untidy or overgrown, sort that out first. Mow the lawn, prune any overhanging trees or bushes, and make sure the flower beds are free of weeds. Make sure the garden looks neat. Throw out anything that’s broken – cracked flower pots, for example – and tidy away any children’s toys.

Plants are one of the most important features in any garden. If they’re are dead or drooping, it’s time to take action. Fertilize the soil to introduce vital nutrients for a healthy looking garden. And if your garden is full of greenery, consider putting in some bright flowering plants to give some bursts of color.

Water features prove popular in gardens, as long as they don’t require too much cleaning or maintenance. So think about putting in a small decorative fountain rather than a fish pond, for example. Choose something in a natural material like stone which complements the garden rather than looking garish.

Environmental awareness is a big issue these days and the garden is a good place to introduce green features. Install a water butt to collect rainwater from the roof to water the plants. Compost bins can be used to recycle food waste, and the output will nourish the garden too.

These days, more and more people treat a garden as an extension of their home – an outdoor room. It’s good if you have garden furniture to emphasize how the space can be used. Set a table and chairs out on a patio or deck to use when entertaining friends outdoors, or place a bench in a quiet, shady spot.

If you have a shed or garage, consider the potential for converting the space, especially if your house is small. Outdoor structures can be used as play rooms, home offices or guest accommodation. It’s not necessarily worth spending the money to do this yourself, but ensure the spaces are tidy so any buyers can see how they could be used.

If there is a garden at the front of your property but no space for a car, consider converting it to a driveway. Using gravel is easier than laying slabs or tarmac. If you live on a main road or in a commuter area, homes with ample parking sell for more money than those without.

Keep in mind that your remodeled garden should be easy to maintain. Not only will this save you time but it will also help if you are selling your house. Some buyers may not have a lot of time to spend on the garden, so keep it simple and easy to care for.

A garden remodel will increase the value of your property when it comes to selling or remortgaging. And in the meantime you will be able to enjoy your own little oasis every time you step outside your door.

Guest Bio: James McHeggins is a writer based at JustRemortgages.com a British based site which specialises for the latest remortgage rates and remortgage deals.