Homeowners looking to sell this summer can significantly increase their property values through modest garden improvements costing as little as £15 to £30.
And with summer property viewings now at their peak, the timing for outdoor revamps couldn't be better.
Research by Charwell Noble reveals that 60 per cent of potential buyers are deterred by properties lacking external visual appeal.
The front garden often serves as a buyer's first impression, yet often remains "the most neglected" aspect of home staging.
Simple fixes can make the difference between a quick sale and an extended time on the market.
Indeed, Saddat Abid, CEO of property buying company Property Saviour, warned: "I've seen countless sellers lose prospective buyers before they even step through the front door.
"In my experience buying properties across the UK, the homes that sell fastest are those where sellers have paid attention to every detail, including the garden.
"The garden is your first impression – and in today's competitive market, you can't afford to get it wrong."
In light of this, he shared nine cost-effective strategies "that could make all the difference to your sale".
If all nine are completed, he claimed this could boost your property's value by up to £6,000.
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Create instant appeal with a fresh fence
Among the most effective garden improvements is refreshing a tired fence, Saddat advised.
For less than £30, homeowners can "completely rejuvenate" their boundaries using colours like lavender, cream, or burgundy to make plantings stand out.
Cost: £15-30 for paint
Value added: Up to £1,000 depending on finish
Add strategic lighting for evening viewings
While daytime viewings are always ideal, strategic lighting proves valuable when this isn't possible.
According to the property expert, basic solar lighting systems costing £20 to £50 can make gardens feel "more welcoming" whilst appearing to expand the space.
Cost: £20-50 for basic solar lighting
Value added: Up to £500, depending on finish
Create a decorative mulch display
Another way to entice buyers on a budget is with a decorative mulch display – think pebbles, gravel, or pine cones.
As well as displaying a "finished, professional look", this simple addition helps conserve moisture and suppresses weeds.
Cost: £10-25 per area
Value added: Up to £2,000 depending on finish
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Build a simple water feature
Even a tiny pond can "transform" a garden. Saddat recommended creating a budget bird bath using just a terracotta pot, glazed saucer, and waterproof glue.
"Water features create tranquil havens and attract wildlife, adding to the property's appeal," the expert stated.
Cost: £15-30 for DIY options
Value added: Up to £500 depending on aesthetic
Reshape your borders for instant impact
"Creating curves or simply making border edges more defined can freshen up your garden's entire look," Saddat told homeowners.
For an "instant lift", basic lawn edging can work wonders, making the space appear "more maintained and professionally designed".
Cost: £5-15 for edging materials
Value added: Up to £250 depending on finish
Upcycle pallets into planters
Think outside the box and transform free pallets into stylish planters or raised beds.
Sadatt advised: "Clean them up, add a coat of paint, and use them to display trailing plants that soften harsh edges. This adds height and can disguise unsightly walls or fences."
Cost: Free - £10 for paint and materials
Value added: Up to £250 depending on finish
Plant in small gaps for maximum impact
Buy packs of hardy succulents to fill gaps between paving or at the base of walls; these tiny plants add greenery to "forgotten spaces".
Cost: £10-20 for plant packs
Value added: Up to £250 depending on finish
Create instant colour with seasonal planting
Spring and summer offer "perfect opportunities to add vibrant blooms", according to the expert.
For flexibility and changeable layouts, consider potted plants. You can also complement bright flowers with evergreens for a "balanced, structured look".
Cost: £15-40 for seasonal plants
Value added: Up to £250 depending on finish
Pressure-wash your way to success
Finally, the expert cautioned sellers not to underestimate the power of small, simple actions. According to Saddat, these often create "the biggest impact".
"Pressure-washing patios, tidying up clutter, and basic maintenance like cutting grass can significantly influence buyer decisions," he said.
Cost: £0-20 for cleaning supplies
Value added: Up to £1,000 depending on finish
Saddat emphasised the psychological impact of outdoor areas, telling homeowners: "Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space.
"A well-staged garden isn't just about aesthetics – it's about creating an emotional connection."