Ask people to describe their dream property, and many will envision a secluded oasis surrounded by rolling hills and quaint, peaceful villages. The charm of rural living within the UK is clear. Rural properties, however, don’t come without their challenges. They often require a higher level of upkeep than their city-based counterparts.
With that in mind, property owners are looking for picturesque country abodes that are also practically equipped for rural life. We’re talking sturdy fencing, secure livestock areas, and well-maintained gardens.
Let’s discuss the outdoor features that can potentially add real value to rural properties and make them stand out from the competition when they go onto the market.
High-quality fencing
Tired-looking and damaged fencing can instantly make a property look unloved and dowdy. Insecure fencing is also unsafe for pets and children. Before a property goes onto the market, fixing up the fencing is an easy win to add value and present it as more of a ready-made home for buyers.
Look out for leaning posts, rust, or any damage and replace as necessary. Overgrowth can weaken fencing and create entry points for pests, so be sure to trim back grass, weeds and brambles regularly. It’s a good idea to apply weatherproof sealant or wood preservative annually to prevent rot and insect damage.
Whilst installing or upgrading fencing isn’t the cheapest task, it offers strong returns both financially and in buyer appeal, so it’s worth doing.
Animal infrastructure
For larger rural properties, poultry setups and animal infrastructure can offer a huge appeal to buyers seeking that idyllic country lifestyle, particularly hobby farmers and self-sufficiency seekers.
Take chicken coops, for instance. They don’t have to be large and invasive. They don’t even need to be permanent. Invest in a portable option to give buyers the flexibility of where – or indeed if – they decide to use it.
Nothing adds to that countryside aesthetic quite like a chicken coop. It enhances the emotional value of a viewing, reinforcing the country dream that many buyers are chasing, particularly with families with young children. Even those who are not interested in poultry can repurpose coops as garden storage, firewood shelters or tool sheds. Highlighting these flexible options adds perceived value.
Well-maintained gardens
According to Your Move, a landscaped garden can add up to 77% to a property’s value. A well-maintained garden can add up to 20%. With countryside properties in particular, buyers are invested in outdoor living. Looking after a property’s outdoor space is more important than ever before within the UK property market.
This could be as simple as offering a manicured and landscaped lawn, but beautiful flower beds and vegetable patches can add real value to your rural escape. If space allows, then sheds, greenhouses, and compost systems are also incredibly attractive additions.
You don’t necessarily need a huge budget and a full garden overhaul to make an impact. Think low-cost, high-value upgrades such as fresh gravel paths, simple raised beds with neat edging and restored garden gates and latches. These elements can add a sense of a useful and well-loved outdoor area without breaking the bank. Check out your local country supplies store to get stocked up on garden membrane, mesh fencing and pest control equipment.
Final, simple touches
Any property investor or seller will understand that the little details should never be overlooked when selling a property. It’s important to remember that you’re not just selling a property – you’re selling a lifestyle. Ever heard that one of the best ways to sell a property is to make it smell like freshly baked bread? It’s true – the little things can have a huge impact in helping viewers envision a property becoming someone’s forever home and dream countryside escape.
So, what can be done? Install some atmospheric outdoor lighting to add a cosy feel, and paint tired fences, gates, or front doors with a cheerful colour. Maybe even add a whimsical touch, such as a bird box or bug hotel, to appeal to animal lovers and young families.
When selling a rural property, it’s beneficial to add and maintain any outdoor features that signal care and functionality. This will help your property to stand out in a competitive market and represent a country lifestyle that’s already in reach for your future buyer.
These upgrades usually require little investment. With the right supplies, you can boost both appeal and value.
