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Make your outside space an asset

Whether you’ve got a garden, a balcony, or a window box, here’s how you can add serious appeal – and even value – to your outside space.

A great way to view your outside space is as an extension of your home. Not only will you use and enjoy it more, but, if you’re thinking of selling your home, potential buyers will see it that way too. In fact, a well-maintained outside space could even add value to your home.

With this in mind, here’s a few ways you could make your outside space as welcoming as the inside…

Invest in a shed

Great storage is an asset to any home, so why should it be any different to have great storage for your garden or outside space too.

A shed is the perfect place to store the lawn mower, tools and garden furniture, as well as those random bits and bobs you’re not sure you need, but daren’t get rid of “just in case”!

Make a space for entertaining

It’s lovely to have a dedicated area in your garden for al-fresco dinners and relaxing in the sun – when the weather allows!

Decking is a great choice, perfect if you have an uneven garden, as you can build a platform to level it out.

Another option would be to pave an area of the garden and create a patio - think about where the sun falls most often so you can really make the best use of the space you create – also, a patio might be more cost effective than decking.

No matter what you go for, choose garden furniture that fits your space and offers plenty of seating and space for eating. It’ll not only help you make the most of the garden, but if you want to sell, potential buyers will be able to visualise themselves entertaining al fresco.

Make sure it’s secure

As well as making your garden look good, it’s helpful to think practically. Security and privacy are important factors, so make sure you have sturdy fencing, secure walls, and padlocked gates. Remember to make sure your home insurance policy covers your outside space, including sheds, garages and any other outbuildings.

Light it up

Think about lighting - this can add much needed extra security with sensor lights which automatically turn on. Or you can go for something more subtle and use garden fairy lights.

For a more modern look, solar-powered floor lights cast a gorgeous glow – plus they’re economical and better for the planet, too.

Add a water feature

A pond or water feature can be a great way to add some charm to any space - big or small. And it can be a haven for all sorts of wildlife from frogs to dragon flies.

However, you should be wary of having a pond if you have young children, or you have a home that could appeal to young families when you’re trying to sell. Ponds also need a bit of maintenance, so if you’re not keen on getting your hands dirty, this may not be for you.

If you don’t fancy managing a pond, opt for a modern water feature, which brings the tranquil sound of trickling water into your garden. Just be careful with young children around if there’s any part of the feature where the water pools.

Go artificial

We all live busy lives, so anything that helps save time is a good idea. These days, artificial grass can look and feel as good as the real thing – and, of course, you don’t have to mow it! It also remains lush and green, whatever the weather.

It’s not cheap – especially if you choose one that looks like the real deal – but if your home has only a small patch of lawn, it could be perfect.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a garden...

You can still add appeal to the outside of your home, even without a garden.

If you have a balcony or small terrace, there’s so much you can do. You could tile the floor – Moroccan tiles look great, for example. Then make it a haven with rattan furniture, cushions, fairy-lights, lanterns and plants. Pots of fragrant herbs, succulents, cacti and climbers can help make your outside space feel like a green oasis.

And even if you don’t have a balcony or terrace, you can still add some colour with window boxes. Petunias, fuchsias and snapdragons are gorgeously vibrant flowers that will pretty up any window.

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