Gardens play a crucial role in the home-buying process, often influencing prospective buyers' decisions and even determining the final sale price.

According to property and garden experts, a well-designed and well-maintained garden can significantly boost a home's value, with some estimates suggesting an increase of up to 20%, amounting to an average of £61,000.

Investing in outdoor features such as pergolas, decking, and modern seating areas could transform a garden into an appealing and functional space, making a property more desirable to buyers and leading to higher estate agent valuations.

Andrew White, an outdoor expert at Harbour Lifestyle, highlights the importance of a versatile, clean, and modern outdoor area.

"Prospective buyers seek a space that is ready for them to personalize, so ensuring your garden is well-maintained, weed-free, and clutter-free is essential. This allows viewers to envision their dream garden within the space," he explained.

To enhance a property's garden appeal, White suggests homeowners take a few key steps. He advises storing children's toys in stylish storage boxes and addressing visible signs of wear and tear to prevent distractions from the space itself.

Incorporating contemporary outdoor furniture, such as a sleek sofa set, can also create inviting social areas that potential buyers can imagine themselves enjoying.

Space is another crucial factor when selling a home. Buyers are looking for open, dynamic, and usable outdoor areas. White recommends extending living spaces outdoors by implementing strategic zoning and layout tactics.

"Consider adding a wall-mounted pergola as a cost-effective alternative to an extension. This increases the usable space without the stress and cost of planning permissions and construction work," he said.

"A pergola can add up to 5% to a property's value while also providing shade, protection, and elegance. It effortlessly extends the interior design into the alfresco space, making a lasting impression on buyers."

While embracing modern design is key, White warns against overly trendy or outdated choices, such as crazy paving or excessive ornaments, which might turn buyers away.

Instead, he encourages homeowners to opt for neutral, timeless, and sophisticated design choices to maximize their garden’s appeal.

With gardens becoming an increasingly valued feature for homebuyers, investing in strategic upgrades could yield a substantial return when it comes time to sell.

By making thoughtful and modern improvements, homeowners could enjoy a more attractive garden while also significantly boosting their property’s overall market value.