Ever wondered if a pool, hot tub or air conditioning really adds value to a property?
If so, then you’ll be interested in the findings of a new survey by Zoopla.
The property portal asked 100 estate agents to nominate the seasonal features that can add value to a property’s asking price.
And after crunching the numbers, here’s what they found. (Results are based on the price of a three-bed home worth £324,000.)
Pool
Pools are becoming increasingly popular thanks to a growing emphasis on lifestyle and rising temperatures.
The study found that a pool can add 1.82% to a home’s asking price, equivalent to £5,897 for the typical three-bed house.
South-facing/sunny garden
Having a sunny space where you can enjoy a quiet moment of solitude or potter about in nature will never go out of fashion.
For this reason, a south-facing garden can add 1.8% (£5,832) to the price tag of a home.
Outdoor entertainment area
A designated outdoor area where you can host friends and family (and maybe impress them with a fancy pizza oven or fire pit) can be a real crowd pleaser.
It could also add up to 1.66% to the asking price of a property.
Air conditioning
With heatwaves and ‘tropical nights’ becoming more common in the UK, demand for air conditioning has surged in recent years.
Which is why air conditioning is often viewed as an attractive feature, boosting a home’s asking price by 1.52%.
Balcony
A balcony can add 1.24% of value - or £4,018 for the average home.
Hot tub
In the property world, hot tubs are a bit like Marmite; people seem to either love them or hate them.
The agents surveyed suggested a hot tub can add £2,819 or 0.87%.
Key considerations
While the Zoopla study is far from scientific, it does provide some useful insights for homeowners, especially those considering selling up.
The study shows that buyers are willing to pay more for certain features. Although depending on how much you spend on installation and running costs, there’s no guarantee you’ll recoup your initial outlay.
These extras could also help you attract buyers and influence their decision-making.
Remember, when you’re selling a property, you’re not just marketing bricks and mortar but a lifestyle.
Buyers are more likely to be swayed by how they feel when they wander around a cool, tranquil garden on a sunny summer’s day, or step onto a breezy balcony decorated with colourful blooms, than by an analysis of floor plans.
So if you’re marketing a home in summer, it’s worth emphasising any seasonal features. They could make all the difference.
If you’re looking to buy or sell a property, get in touch with us. We’re your local property experts and are here to offer help and guidance.