Kerb appeal quite literally refers to how attractive your home looks from the street.
So, we’re focussing on the sometimes-forgotten exterior presentation of your property. We all know that first impressions count, and the same applies to when you’re selling your home.
Your garden is the first place to start when it comes to small tweaks that help the kerb appeal of your property, and here’s the best way to do it.
Why your garden matters when selling your home
While the interior of your home is of the utmost importance to potential buyers, never underestimate how many people may make up their minds before stepping over the threshold.
If a buyer notices peeling paint, a cluttered driveway or an overgrown garden it can put them off. Additionally, if these issues appear in photos of your home, they’re likely to reduce the number of enquiries you could receive for viewings.
We’ve rounded up our top suggestions for using your garden to improve kerb appeal, with some easy fixes that you can get to right away to boost your property’s chances in a competitive market.
How to tidy your front garden on a budget
First things first, a simple tidy of your garden can make a world of difference. With spring well and truly here and summer just around the corner, it may be that your garden has been neglected over the colder months.
The best place to start is with the basics – clear weeds, remove dead plants and sweep pathways. A well-maintained garden is a good sign for buyers, as it shows that you care for and maintain your home’s interiors as well.
It’s also worth decluttering the space as well. If children’s toys or garden furniture are left out, tidy them away or arrange them neatly so the space looks appealing, and potentially even bigger. Want to make the most of your garden or balcony? Read our guide on how to make the most of even the smallest of outdoor spaces to appeal to buyers.
The best plants and flowers to boost kerb appeal
A garden full of flowers is an inviting first glance for a buyer. They help to add colour, texture and visual interest to gardens front or back.
As with interiors, consider the colour palettes of the flowers you're choosing so they complement each other for the best visual impact. You could also add fragrance by introducing scented blooms to enhance the overall feel of your garden.
While this step might scare those with less green-fingered knowledge, there are plenty of low maintenance, hardy options that can thrive in a multitude of climates. Consider lavender, box hedging or flowering plants such as geraniums.
Lawn care tips that make a big difference
A well-maintained lawn is a key element of good kerb appeal. A freshly mowed lawn is one of the quickest and easiest ways to smarten up your front garden, instantly creating a neat and tidy impression of your whole home. Aim to cut your lawn regularly in the lead-up to viewings, ensuring that it always looks its best.
As well as mowing your lawn, check for any bare or patchy areas that need attention. Simply sow grass seeds or lay turf to fill in any gaps, as an uneven lawn can look neglected and detract from the overall appearance of your property. If you want to go a step further, defining the edges of your lawn with an edging tool can make a big difference, giving it a sharp, well-finished look.
How fencing and pathways can transform your front garden
Although not greenery, fencing and pathways are features in your garden that you should pay attention to when staging your home for viewings. Do you have fencing or gates with peeling or dull paint? A fresh lick of paint can brighten your garden and further enhance the impression of a tidy property. Getting ready to sell? See our other tips on how to best stage your home here.
As well as appearance, think about the general condition of fencing, paths or walls. Potential buyers will look to these for privacy and security, so replace any broken panels and ensure pathways are in good condition.
Consider power washing old pathways and driveways to improve their appearance without the cost of replacement.
Seasonal garden maintenance: keeping kerb appeal all year round
While the warmer months are upon us, that doesn’t mean your garden’s kerb appeal is only important at this time of year. Spring blooms make it easier to create an inviting garden, but don’t be tempted to let things slide during the winter, as your garden remains a crucial first impression – even when you may not be using it all that much.
Focus on structure during this time - evergreen plants provide year-round colour, clean pathways ensure safe and welcoming access, and a freshly painted front door can lift the entire look of your property, even on the greyest of days.
By staying on top of your garden throughout the year, you can ensure that your home always puts its best foot forward, whatever the season.
Ready to make your move?
Your front garden is so much more than just an outdoor space, it’s the first chapter of your home's story, and one that has the power to captivate potential buyers from the moment they arrive.
Whether you’re planning to put your home on the market now or are just starting to consider it, following the above suggestions puts your home in good stead to get interest in a noisy market. Small changes can add up to make a real and meaningful difference to how your property is perceived, and ultimately, to the price it achieves.
