- Many venders neglect their garden when conducting a home open
- This is despite a well-kept garden being highly appealing to buyers
- Better Homes and Gardens and STIHL ambassador, Charlie Albone, has given seven tips
With a booming property market, many sellers are well aware that first impressions can make a huge difference in setting the property apart.
More often than not, this interest can translate into a higher sale price and reduce the length of time the property is on the market.
While attention can be focused on the house itself, an area that is often neglected is the garden.
“Many Australians fall in love with a garden at first sight and become attached to a home,” said Better Homes and Gardens presenter and STIHL Ambassador Charlie Albone.
“Making sure you present your garden well to attract buyers will be well worth the time and money investment you make.”
To rectify the neglection, Mr Albone has seven gardening tips for when selling your home
1. High-pressure water washer
People spend a significant amount of hours cleaning and dressing inside their home, and the same should apply to your garden, said Mr Albone, who recommends using a high-pressure water washer to freshen hard surfaces.
“They are easy to use, quick to cover a large area, and are affordable to purchase. The clean concrete or paving areas will show your property in their best light and ensure your home looks clean and well kept inside and out.”
2. Prune trees and hedges; let light in
Although having trees provides benefits, it is important to ensure they have not overgrowing windows and blocking natural light flooding into the home.
“Trim trees to ensure windows capture the full vista available and the natural light on offer to your home is maximised. Make sure you use an appropriate tool for the job, you want the trees to be cleanly cut and to remain healthy for new growth to start shooting.”
3. Mulch your garden beds
Spreading mulch is an effective way to prevent weeds from growing, keeping moisture in your soil while providing a uniform appearance across your garden. Easy and quick, for a nice, fresh impact.
4. Mow lawns
Everybody loves the smell of freshly cut grass. Mr Albone says this shows you have kept your lawn clean and well kept. And it makes a great first impression.
5. Show off space and versatility
Mr Albone said buyers will view the garden differently noting some will connect and love plants, while others would see it as a perfect area for children to play in for example. On the other hand, some buyers may see a garden as a lot of hard work and red.
“Showcase the versatility of your garden, from spaces to entertain friends and family, to a rewarding vegetable garden, or a beautiful lawn for the kids to play on. Use your garden strengths to show why your property stands out.”
6. Bring the outdoors in
Regardless of whether you have a small garden or none at all, adding plants and flowers inside a home is appealing to prospective buyers.
“Just as some buyers love the smell of freshly baked bread or biscuits, the perfume of flowers can have a similar effect on buyers.
“Indoor plants are extremely popular, whilst some beautiful cut flowers will add colour and perfume to your home when open for inspection.”
7. Employ an expert
Mr Albone added that if you haven’t worked in a garden for a while, you might be overwhelmed with work to do to prepare a garden for sale.
“Don’t be afraid to engage an expert who can help you prepare your garden or provide you ideas on how best to showcase your space,” he said.
