When selling a house in Australia, one key consideration is maximising the sale price and attracting the right buyers. While many sellers focus on renovations inside the home – such as painting, upgrading the kitchen, or modernizing bathrooms—gardens and outdoor spaces are often overlooked. This raises a critical question: is it worth spending money on your garden when preparing to sell?
The short answer is yes, but the extent to which you should invest in your garden depends on several factors, including your budget, the type of property, and the preferences of your target market. In this article, we’ll explore why your garden matters, how to approach garden upgrades strategically, and what portion of your budget you might allocate to landscaping improvements.
Why Your Garden Matters When Selling a House
1. First Impressions Count: The Power of Curb Appeal
In real estate, first impressions are everything. The garden is often the first thing buyers see, whether from the street or when walking through the front gate. A well-maintained garden can set a positive tone for the rest of the viewing experience, signalling that the property has been cared for.
A messy, overgrown, or unkempt garden can deter potential buyers before they even step inside. Conversely, a neat and attractive outdoor space can create an emotional connection, making buyers feel welcome and encouraging them to imagine themselves living in the home.
2. Outdoor Living is a Major Selling Point in Australia
In Australia, outdoor living is a significant part of the lifestyle. Whether it’s hosting barbecues, enjoying a morning coffee on the patio, or letting kids play in the backyard, buyers tend to value outdoor spaces. This is especially true in regions with mild climates, such as Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, where outdoor areas can be used year-round.
Properties with inviting gardens, functional outdoor areas, and features like decks, patios, or pergolas can stand out in the market, potentially leading to faster sales and higher offers.
3. Increased Property Value
A well-designed garden can add tangible value to your property. According to studies, landscaping improvements can increase a property’s value by 5–15%, depending on the scope of the upgrades and the local market. A house priced at $800,000 could mean an additional $40,000–$120,000 in value.
However, it’s essential to strike a balance. Overcapitalizing on garden improvements might not yield the return on investment you’re hoping for, especially if the upgrades are too niche or don’t align with buyer preferences.
Factors to Consider Before Investing in Your Garden
1. The Individual Property
The role your garden plays in selling your property depends largely on the type of home you’re selling and its location. Consider the following scenarios:
- Family Homes: If your property is aimed at families, a functional garden with a lawn, shaded areas, and space for kids to play will be highly appealing.
- Luxury Homes: In high-end markets, buyers expect well-manicured gardens, modern landscaping, and high-quality finishes like stone paving or designer outdoor furniture.
- Apartments or Units: For properties with limited outdoor space, such as apartments with balconies or courtyards, a few pots of greenery or a vertical garden can create a sense of charm without a significant investment.
- Rural or Coastal Properties: Homes in rural or coastal areas often benefit from natural landscaping that complements the surroundings. Low-maintenance, drought-resistant plants are particularly appealing in these environments.
2. Market Expectations
Different regions in Australia have varying buyer expectations when it comes to gardens. For instance, buyers in urban areas like Melbourne or Sydney might prioritize stylish outdoor entertaining areas, while buyers in rural Queensland may value large, functional spaces with room for gardening or livestock.
Researching recent sales in your area can give you an idea of what buyers are looking for and help you decide where to focus your efforts.
3. Your Budget
Your budget will dictate the scope of garden improvements. The key is to focus on cost-effective changes that deliver maximum impact. For example, simply tidying up the garden, adding mulch, and planting some colourful flowers can make a big difference without breaking the bank.
How Much of Your Budget Should You Spend on the Garden?
When preparing your house for sale, you’ll likely have a fixed budget for improvements. Experts recommend allocating 5–10% of your property’s value to pre-sale upgrades. Of this, around 10–20% of your renovation budget could be allocated to garden improvements. For example:
- If your home is worth $750,000 and you allocate 5% ($37,500) to upgrades, you might spend $3,750–$7,500 on the garden.
- For a smaller budget of $10,000 in total, you could allocate $1,000–$2,000 to outdoor improvements.
The exact percentage will depend on the condition of your garden and its importance in the overall appeal of your property.
Cost-Effective Ways to Improve Your Garden
1. Start with Maintenance
Before considering major upgrades, focus on basic maintenance. A clean and tidy garden can instantly improve the appearance of your property. Key tasks include:
- Mowing the lawn
- Trimming hedges and trees
- Weeding garden beds
- Raking leaves
- Cleaning pathways and outdoor furniture
- Removing dead or overgrown plants
2. Add Mulch and Plants
Adding a fresh layer of mulch to garden beds is an affordable way to improve the garden’s appearance. It not only looks neat but also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Complement the mulch with some strategically placed plants, such as flowering shrubs, native plants, or colourful annuals.
3. Focus on Key Features
Identify focal points in your garden that can be enhanced. For example:
- Front Yard: Create a welcoming entrance with a tidy lawn, potted plants, and a clean pathway.
- Backyard: Highlight outdoor living areas by staging furniture or adding a feature like a fire pit or water fountain.
- Balcony or Courtyard: Use planter boxes, hanging baskets, or vertical gardens to add greenery to small spaces.
4. Repair and Refresh
Fixing damaged elements in your garden can make a big difference. For example:
- Replace broken paving stones or tiles
- Repaint fences or garden sheds
- Repair or replace worn-out outdoor furniture
- Add solar lights to pathways or garden beds for a warm, inviting glow
5. Consider Professional Landscaping (if Budget Permits)
For higher budgets, professional landscaping can elevate your garden to the next level. Landscape designers can create bespoke solutions tailored to your property and target market, such as:
- Installing a deck, pergola, or patio
- Creating outdoor entertaining zones
- Adding irrigation systems for easy maintenance
- Incorporating eco-friendly features like rainwater tanks or drought-resistant plants
When Not to Spend Too Much on the Garden
While a well-maintained garden is important, there are situations where it might not make sense to invest heavily in landscaping:
- Tight Budgets: If your budget is limited, prioritize essential indoor renovations or structural repairs over garden improvements.
- Development Opportunities: For properties likely to be sold to developers, the garden may not influence the sale price, as buyers will focus on the land value and potential for redevelopment.
- Buyer Preferences: In some markets, buyers may prefer to redesign the garden themselves, so keeping it simple and low-maintenance could be a better approach.
Investing in your garden when selling your house in Australia can be a smart move, but it’s important to approach it strategically. A well-maintained and inviting outdoor space can boost your property’s value, attract more buyers, and set your home apart from the competition. However, the extent of your investment should be guided by your budget, the type of property, and the expectations of your target market.
By focusing on cost-effective improvements like tidying up, adding plants, and enhancing key features, you can maximize the impact of your garden without overspending. And if your budget allows, professional landscaping can add significant value to your home.
Ultimately, every property is unique, so take the time to assess your garden’s potential and tailor your approach to suit your specific circumstances. With the right balance of effort and investment, your garden can become a powerful asset in the sale of your home.
