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The rental market is a competitive place and, as a result, landlords and property managers are always striving to find new and innovative ways to make their properties stand out to the right tenants.
While interiors play an important part, of course, the outside shouldn’t be neglected – they can serve as a valuable selling point. For urban renters, especially, having a well-designed outdoor space to entertain, enjoy the weather or simply relax could spell the difference between securing a long-term tenant and having your property sit on the market for months.
We’ll take a look at the strategies landlords can employ to design a garden that caters to the needs and preferences of tenants, from different layout options to lasting features you can install to make your rental stand out from the rest.
Planning and Designing the Garden
Landscaping a garden, no matter the size, requires careful planning and plenty of thought. You need to factor in the space you have to work with and your budget, but also the types of tenants you’ll be renting to and what they’ll need from the space. Perhaps you’re targeting families, for example, who will value extra square footage in the form of a garden room. Or maybe you’re renting to tenants with pets who will be looking for a safe and secure garden for their furry friends.
You also need to think about what you’re keeping or getting rid of. Are there existing features you want to hold on to or areas where you want to optimise sunlight? Maybe you want to expand or modify the layout to make better use of the workable space. Privacy is also a consideration, particularly in densely populated areas. How can you create a garden that feels like a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle?
Maximise Indoor Space by Extending Outside
One of the most effective ways to maximise tenant appeal is to offer more space. Whether you’re renting to growing families or single tenants, having more living space is always highly valued. But it’s not always practical or financially viable to extend the property itself which is why moving outdoors can be a wise choice.
One way to take an outdoor space to the next level and truly maximise tenant appeal is by creating a dedicated garden room or outdoor living area. These structures provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering tenants a comfortable and protected area for relaxation and entertainment. From home gyms to workspaces that benefit from natural surroundings, these features are a great way to provide extra living space without needing to extend or renovate the property itself.
A garden room is essentially an enclosed or semi-enclosed space within the garden, often featuring large windows or doors that allow for abundant natural light and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. These structures can be constructed using a variety of materials, such as wood, stone or even glass, and can range from simple pergolas or gazebos to more elaborate and insulated rooms.
For those with limited space or budget, a more modest outdoor living area can be created by utilising decking, paving stones or even a simple patio setup. These spaces can be furnished with weather-resistant furniture, shade structures like a retractable awning, and ambient lighting to create a cosy and inviting environment that’s also practical year-round.
Regulation-Friendly Approaches
One consideration that may be overlooked is whether the garden adheres to local building codes and regulations. This won’t apply if you’re just sprucing up what’s already there, but if you intend to add extensions or features like pergolas or sheds, you will need to consider how these comply with your local codes and laws. As a landlord, taking a regulation-friendly approach from the start can save you time, money and hassle in the long run.
Before starting any major landscaping work, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your local authority and check your plans are compliant. Many councils have guidelines on the size, height and placement of outdoor structures, along with rules for paving or decking in some cases. Make sure you have the necessary planning permissions in place and approval for any work before you begin – failure to do so could result in fines and a request to remove any work you’ve already done which will cost you money and time.
Accessibility and safety are also paramount for landlords. Any new outdoor living spaces should be designed with ease of access in mind, particularly for tenants with mobility limitations. Incorporate features such as level surfaces, ramps or handrails where appropriate, along with adequate lighting and non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents and ensure the space is safe for all tenants to enjoy.
Low-Maintenance and Cost-Effective Solutions
While creating an impressive outdoor living space can significantly enhance a property’s appeal, it’s essential for landlords to strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Low-maintenance gardens will boost the appeal of your property for tenants and can be achieved on a minimal budget. Ideally, cost-effective solutions should be prioritised to ensure long-term sustainability and affordability, since tenants will be taking on much of the maintenance responsibility.
Opt for low-maintenance, drought-resistant plants that are well-suited to the local climate. Native plants often require less watering, fertilising and pruning, which reduces the time and resources needed for upkeep for your tenants. It’s also a good idea to incorporate mulch or ground cover to suppress weeds and retain moisture, further minimising maintenance efforts.
When it comes to hardscaping elements, such as decking or garden structures, choose durable, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements without frequent repairs. You might also want to include water-efficient irrigation systems, such as drip lines or smart controllers, to minimise water waste and reduce utility costs while also keeping the garden well maintained.
For landlords on a tighter budget, there are DIY options that can help keep costs down while still creating an appealing outdoor space. Simple projects like building raised garden beds, installing basic lighting or constructing a basic pergola or trellis can be tackled with the right tools and resources and look impressive when you’re done. You can also explore cost-saving strategies such as repurposing or upcycling materials, and prioritise projects that offer the greatest impact for the available budget.
By prioritising elements such as comfortable seating areas, shaded solutions and privacy features, landlords can create functional spaces that are more attractive and cater to a variety of tenant needs. For more advice on managing your Buy to let efficiently and profitably, speak to one of our team today.
