When the sun shines, many of us eagerly head out into our gardens to soak up the weather. Spaces that might have been overlooked during a rainy May suddenly become essential extensions of our living areas. Gardens offer a myriad of practical and personal benefits, enhancing the value of our homes and contributing to our overall well-being.
Gardens can add significant value to properties, with recent data indicating that a landscaped garden can increase a home’s value by up to 77%. The actual value varies by region and is especially crucial in urban areas where green spaces are scarce. Research shows that 50% of homeowners consider a well-designed garden as important, if not more so, than a well-designed kitchen or bathroom, highlighting the importance of intentional garden design.
The diverse uses of gardens contribute to their variable value. A survey found that the most popular use for gardens is as a place to sit and relax, while other important uses include play areas for children and spaces for household pets. The shift to homeworking during the pandemic has also increased the demand for garden offices, which can add approximately £15,000 to a home's value. In the first year of the pandemic, an estimated £16 billion was spent on garden improvements, enhancing the kerb appeal and value of homes as buyers often form their first impressions based on a property's exterior.
Beyond financial benefits, gardens can profoundly impact mental and physical health. Spending time outdoors can significantly boost mental well-being, as many discovered during the pandemic. Being in a garden for just 3 to 4 minutes can lower heart rates and blood pressure. Gardens also foster a connection with nature, promoting environmental responsibility and benefiting overall health. Furthermore, gardens facilitate pet ownership, which is linked to better mental health, with 87% of dog owners and 82% of cat owners reporting that their pets improve their mental well-being.
However, not everyone has access to private or communal gardens. For the nearly 90% who do, gardens are invaluable assets. Even those without private green spaces can benefit from views of greenery, which have been shown to positively impact mental health. The emotional connections we form with homes often stem from the sense of peace and refreshment that green spaces provide. Recognising these benefits, new home developers are increasingly incorporating larger gardens and green spaces, with garden sizes in new build properties growing by up to 20% since 2013.
When house hunting, it's essential to consider the many advantages gardens offer. They can enhance resale potential, serve various practical purposes, and improve overall health and well-being. Choose a home that embraces the energising and refreshing qualities of a garden.
Source: LSL Land & New Homes
The Reeds Rains Content Marketing Team
