According to Hayter, the manufacturer specializing in petrol and battery-powered lawn mowers, UK homeowners now prioritize garden size above all else when searching for a new home. Their poll of 1,000 participants demonstrates a significant change in what buyers value most, with outdoor areas surpassing conventional homebuying concerns.
Well-maintained, sizable outdoor spaces are increasingly shaping perceptions of property value, with 80% of respondents saying the garden is extremely important when choosing a new home. Additionally, 75% say the size of the garden is the most important factor in moving home.
Garden Size and Outdoor Space
76% of respondents would not buy their dream home if the garden was small or non-existent, highlighting the importance of outdoor space in the UK housing market. Only 5% of respondents wouldn’t pay more for a home with a larger garden.
The survey also found that 75.24% of participants said the size of the garden and outdoor spaces was the most important factor when purchasing a new property. This was followed by the size of the living space, number of bedrooms, and outdoor privacy.
Changing Priorities
The importance of traditional considerations such as school catchment area, modern bathrooms, and transport links has decreased, with these factors taking the bottom three places in the survey. Energy efficiency was also a relatively low priority, with 12.7% of respondents considering it important.
For those seeking a larger garden, the most common reason was to relax and socialise with others, closely followed by growing plants, hosting parties, and growing vegetables. This suggests that gardens are no longer just a nicety, but a key factor in the decision to purchase a property.
Impact on Property Value
76% of respondents claim that a garden increases their perception of a home’s value, and 40.8% would pay significantly more for the privilege of a larger garden. According to Chris Cooper, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Hayter, “A good-sized, well-maintained garden can significantly influence both perception and price when buying a property.”
As people continue to prioritise wellbeing, relaxation, and socialising at home, the role of the garden in the property market is only set to grow. The survey findings reflect the broader consensus among UK homeowners, with 79.44% saying that having a garden was a must when choosing an outdoor space.