Garden jobs to tackle before selling your home

Before rushing out to buy new plants, fix the basics. A neat, functional garden with healthy soil, good access and easy maintenance can make a stronger impression than one filled with expensive plants that won’t live long past settlement day.

Follow these steps to upgrade your garden without a huge investment before you sell: 

1. Work with the conditions you already have

Start by looking at where the garden gets sun, shade, wind and excess moisture.

This helps you avoid planting something simply because it looks good at the nursery. Buyers are more likely to appreciate a garden that appears healthy and is suited to the property.

If you do add plants before you sell, choose varieties that will thrive in the available light, soil and climate.

2. Deal with weeds first

Weeds instantly make a garden look neglected, but removing them can feel like an instant facelift, so clear them away from garden beds, paths and the fence line. 

Persistent varieties may need more than one treatment, so you may need to invite your gardener back after your first open home.

3. Fix the structure of the garden

Before adding decorative touches, look at the practical elements.

Check:

• Pathways and steps
• Edging and retaining walls
• Drainage and areas that stay wet
• Fences, screens and garden access

Loose pavers, damaged edging or patches of mud can distract buyers from the rest of the outdoor area.

4. Improve tired soil and garden beds

Freshening up garden beds can give an outdoor space an immediate lift.

Remove rubble and dead plants, loosen compacted soil and add suitable compost, garden soil or mulch where needed.

Mulch can be particularly effective before a sale because it gives beds a cleaner, more finished appearance.

5. Create a ‘zone’

The interior of your home will have clear spaces for relaxing, study or sleep. Use outdoor furniture to highlight the area in your garden where buyers could dine alfresco or relax with a book, so they can picture themselves enjoying the space. 

Keep it simple before you sell

You do not need to completely redesign the backyard before putting your home on the market.

Focus on removing clutter, fixing obvious problems and making the garden feel healthy and manageable. A tidy outdoor space gives buyers less to worry about and makes it easier for them to imagine enjoying the property from day one.