Gardening expert at Argos, Leanne Fox, reveals the top five changes green-fingered homeowners can make that will ensure they don’t lose out when selling
30th July 2024: Unkempt gardens are costing Brits dearly, with new research from Argos revealing that buyers in today’s market offer on average 12% under asking price (£33,720 on the average UK home) if a garden hasn’t been maintained. *
Despite gardens often being overlooked by homeowners, house-hunters place greater value on a well-kept garden during their search than they do modernised interiors. The research found that buyers will reduce their offer by a whopping 12% if the garden needs renovation works, but will only reduce their offer by 8% if it has an outdated or small bedroom.
When asked for specifics, prospective buyers said that if a garden is overrun with weeds they’d trim 5%, or £14,050 based on the average price home, off their offer. And whilst unruly grass devalues a property by 3% (£8,430), it’s still favoured over artificial grass, with buyers knocking off 3.5% (£9,835) if they see fake green.
First impressions also count, with prospective buyers less likely to put an offer in on a property if it has a dirty patio (17%) or broken garden furniture (16%).
The secret to adding value to your home can be very simple, even for those who have neglected their outdoor space a little too long. In order to get the best out of your garden, the research also looked at the best practises to keep on top of outdoor tasks, showing that it doesn’t need to take too much time or effort to get back on track.
For those who keep a well-spruced garden, it takes just under 1.9 hours a week of little jobs, from pruning to mowing, to power washing and weeding, to stay on top of it. When asked what they usually spend to upkeep their garden, the average cost was £221.61 a year, equating to as little as £4.25 a week.
Leanne Fox, Gardening Expert at Argos said: “Our research shows that when looking for a home, a well-maintained garden or outdoor space is considered as important as the interior. In fact, for 1 in 5 it is a non-negotiable. For those lucky enough to have their own outdoor escape, it’s good to keep on top of it, not only for your own enjoyment but it could also help increase the value of your home when selling.”
Leanne shares her tips on how sellers can add value to their property by utilising their outside space.
Remove weeds – could ensure you don’t lose £13,712 on the value of your home
“Not only is removing weeds key for letting healthy grass and plants grow, it also keeps everything looking neat and tidy. Before any viewings, be sure to go round picking the pesky weeds out of any lawns or patio crevices.” Gardena Weed Puller for £40 is a handy chemical free tool to help get the job done.”
Check the fencing – could ensure you don’t lose £12,335 on the value of your home
“It might sound mundane, but a good fence can do wonders for a garden refresh. Give any fencing a once over and make sure nothing needs replacing. Even a lick of paint or fence stain can really round off a garden and makes everything else look fresh.” Johnstone’s Shed & Fence Paint 9 Litre – Dark Oak is available at Argos for £16.50, or for fencing needing a bit more work, the Forest 6ft Overlap Fence Panel – Pack of 3 is available for £180.
Clear any mess – could ensure you don’t lose £11,408 on the value of your home
“Make sure you tidy up and organise after any gardening you’ve done, with a sweep of the patio. If you really want to go all out, a power wash of any patio or decking is a sure way to delight buyers. Outdoor storage can also help hide any bits and bobs you have lying around, including everything you have to keep the garden clean in the first place.” The Keter Store It Out Max 1200L Garden Storage Box -Grey/Black (£165) is a great all-purpose outdoor storage box, ideal for garden tools, furniture and equipment or even bins.
Keep a tidy lawn – could ensure you don’t lose £9,469 on the value of your home
“An overgrown lawn can often hide a wonderful garden, and in doing so put off any potential buyers. The key with lawns is to not let it get too long that it becomes too difficult to trim. Make mowing part of a weekly or bi-weekly routine, as well as keeping it watered when it gets a little hotter.” Argos offers a range of lawnmower options, including the Spear & Jackson 37cm Cordless Rotary Lawnmower – 36V for £255.
Keep the furniture fresh – could ensure you don’t lose £9,441 on the value of your home
“The wet weather can take its toll on garden furniture, so to ensure your furniture stands the test of time, covers are a great way to protect from the elements. If you really want to impress future buyers, consider little colourful accents like cushions or outdoor rugs to brighten the garden space up.” The Argos Home Deluxe Extra Large Oval Patio Cover is available for £47 to keep furniture fresh, and if you’re looking to add some décor, the Streetwize Outdoor Cushion Green – Pack of 4 (£40) is one of many options.
To shop the range, visit: www.argos.co.uk. Argos delivers 7 days a week, offering Fast Track same & next day delivery and Click & Collect across 1,100+ Sainsbury’s stores, Argos stores and collection points.
| Problem area | Percentage reduction on offer | Average loss in sterling* |
| Unkempt garden | 12% | £33,720 |
| Outdated kitchen | 11% | £30,910 |
| Outdated bathroom | 10% | £28,100 |
| Outdated main bedroom | 8% | £22,480 |
| Outdated lounge | 8% | £22,480 |
| Small bedrooms | 8% | £22,480 |
