Welcome back to another week of Padarn Property blogs! This week we’ll be discussing features that could potentially boost the value of your home!

It’s that time of year again—when the days are long, the gardens are in bloom, and homeowners start wondering: What can I do to boost my property’s value before the summer ends?

We spend a lot of time walking through homes with clients who want to get the most out of their sale—or make the right investment in a new purchase. And lately, there’s been a noticeable shift: buyers aren’t just looking at square footage anymore. They’re paying close attention to lifestyle features—the kind that make a house feel like a retreat.

According to recent data from Zoopla, some seasonal features can boost a home’s value by up to £20,000. Here’s what’s topping the wish lists this summer—and what’s actually being seen on the ground.

1. Well-Designed Outdoor Space

This is the big one. A tidy lawn no longer cuts it. Buyers are drawn to “ready-made” gardens: think built-in seating, decked patios, outdoor kitchens, or even just clever zoning (like a dining area separate from a kids’ play corner).

Pro tip: Keep it low maintenance. Raised beds with lavender and evergreen shrubs are a smart, stylish touch that doesn’t scream gardening commitment.

2. Bifold Doors & Garden Access

You’d be amazed how much more buyers are willing to pay for that indoor-outdoor flow. Bifold or sliding doors from the kitchen or living area straight into the garden aren’t just trendy—they make small homes feel bigger and brighter.

And if you’re in a mid-terrace or semi where garden light is limited, even replacing a standard back door with French doors can make a world of difference.

3. South-Facing Orientation

This one’s less about a feature you can add, and more about marketing what you’ve got. If your garden catches the sun most of the day, make sure you say so in the listing. “South-facing garden” is one of the most-searched phrases on Rightmove.

I viewed a home last week where the garden was modest—but the sun hit it from noon to sunset. The seller had arranged a small table with two chairs and a couple of Aperol spritzes for the viewing. It was 26°C and it worked—buyers lingered much longer than usual.

4. Outdoor Showers or Hot Tubs

Not for everyone, I know—but in the right property (especially holiday lets or countryside homes), these can tip a buyer into “yes” territory. It’s the slight added touch of “luxury” that buyers are looking for.

5. Summer Houses & Garden Offices

Since the remote work boom, demand for flexible garden rooms hasn’t slowed down. If you’ve got the space, a well-insulated timber office with electricity and Wi-Fi can boost your valuation more than a basic loft conversion—especially in homes where interior space is maxed out.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to take on a massive renovation to increase value. Summer is the season to focus on light, flow, and outdoor living—three things that make a home more inviting, and in turn, more valuable.

If you’re not sure where to start, my advice is simple: spend a weekend in your garden, walk around your house as if you were seeing it for the first time, and ask yourself—does it feel like a home you'd want to spend a sunny Saturday in? Chances are, your buyer is asking the same thing!

If you’re thinking of selling, want an up-to-date, or would like a chat about how to increase the value of your home, contact us today!

Ben McEvoy