Green fingers can improve the value of your home

Improving your garden can add almost 90% return on your property investment, according to new research carried out by This is Money. A little green TLC could therefore go a long way to selling your property.

“Giving your outside space a fresh look with pretty features will instantly please your buyers. Make sure you mow the lawn, trim the bushes and give your fence a lick of paint if it is looking worn,” says Luke Bishop of Wooster and Stock of Estate Agents.

Here we look at the main outdoor features buyers are looking for in 2015:

Space for outdoor dining

Many buyers will be looking for al fresco possibilities for dining, particularly with the current British obsession with barbeques. Top of buyer’s priorities will be patios and decking areas, so it may be worth laying some paving to create a dining area. You could also place a table and a couple of chairs in strategic positions to help potential buyers visualise the possibility of outdoor dining.

Catching the sunny spot

Buyers often search for south-facing gardens which catch the sun for most of the day. Whichever way your garden faces, you can draw attention to the sunny spots by placing a bench or comfy chair in the right spot. Think of putting some brightly colored or terracotta plant pots in places that catch the sunlight.

The kids are alright

If you have a classic family house, showing you have outdoor space where kids can play can be a huge plus for families looking to buy. A simple lawn may be what most families are looking for, but even a garden laid to patio can be used to create an outdoor play area. For example, you could build a play area by cornering off a section of the garden and then filling it with bark or artificial grass.

Be themed

Working with a theme can be a great way to modernise your garden and bring different areas together so that if feels like another functioning room of your home and brings the inside out. This year designs are inspired by Indian and Moroccan themes, which can easily be recreated by scattering a few patterned cushions on garden furniture or placing lanterns at different heights in your eating area.

Go potty

Even gardens with limited or no grassy areas can be jazzed up by planting a few brightly coloured pots. They can easily be replanted according to the different seasons and moved around to show off the best of the garden.

A lick of paint 

Finally, make sure that your garden is looking its best whatever the size and shape. Give the fence a lick of paint and repair any gaps. Keep the lawn looking tidy and deal with any weed or slug problems, and make sure plants and pots are watered on a regular basis, particularly in the warm weather.