As the summer solstice approaches and the days become warmer, fine haart reveals that large, landscaped gardens are the most important selling features of upmarket properties, adding an average of 15% to their value…

According to a survey of haart estate agents, the British public’s love of the outdoors can help sell upmarket properties (£500,000 plus properties), with the top four value-adding features linked to the land surrounding the property.*

After large, landscaped gardens, there is a clear desirability of living near water. A garden with a swimming pool ranked second in the poll of value-added features, followed by living near a lake, river or stream, with an average of 12% and 11% added to the price of the property respectively.

Surprisingly, a tennis court, which could increase house prices by 10%, came above a triple garage or private road.

Importance of outdoor space

Russell Jervis, managing director of fine haart, comments: “The English summer has arrived and with the longest day of the year just around the corner, people are spending a lot of time enjoying their gardens.

“The findings highlight the importance of outdoor space, which not only becomes a vital area for entertaining, relaxing and exercising, but boosts the value of the property.”

Large, landscaped gardens topped the poll with uniquely designed gardens and striking flowers adding a certain cachet.

Russell Jervis continues: “Having a well designed outdoor space as an extension to the home can vastly improve its versatility and boost its desirability. The love of gardens is part of the British heritage and homeowners planning to landscape their gardens should keep a close eye on gardening fashions and trends.

“Gardens featured in popular shows, such as the Chelsea Flower Show, pave the way. Currently, rare flowers such as Bleeding Hearts, sculptural trees and natural materials, such as stone and wood are very popular”.

Graph 1. The top upmarket features to a £500,000 plus house.