Discover how adding an outbuilding can increase the value of your home

Office, workshop, Man Cave or She-shed. Whatever you call them, outbuildings can be great additions to any home. But can they also help you to sell? Read on to find out more...

When looking for a new home, you look for the basics; Living room, kitchen, bathroom and the required number of bedrooms to comfortably house your family. But once you've compiled your list of suitable properties, how do you whittle those down to 'the one'?

As a homeowner, you have the opportunity to add unique features to your property that will make it stand out in the market. An outbuilding is not just additional space; it's a statement of your individuality. It can add valuable square footage to your property and set your home apart from the competition.

In a sea of potential properties, the ones that stand out are those that offer something extra. Adding an outbuilding is a smart way to increase the value of your home and attract buyers. It's not just about adding square footage; it's about adding value and appeal to your property.

Such as:

• Summer houses—A summer house is not additional storage; it is the facility to host garden parties in the summer with strawberries, scones, Pimms, and laughter as the children play freely and friends and family catch up until the sun begins to set.
• Shed/workshops—Whether you like to tinker around on weekends, have hobbies, or need a workshop for your living, having a workshop adds another element to your property that can really appeal to those of us who could make good use of it.
• Den—somewhere for the kids to play during those long summer holidays or a quiet retreat for you to get some much-needed peace.
• Bar—A bar is not just somewhere to prepare a drink; it is the venue for hosting boozy BBQs with friends, inviting the neighbours, and having an open door; everyone is welcome.
• Hot tub and pergola—Invite friends over for an afternoon in the hot tub: the pergola can provide welcome shade from the summer sun.
• Games room—Whether you like pool, darts, or poker nights, a games room is a great place to have fun with your friends, and there is no closing time.
• Gym—A gym is not just a place to keep your weights and an indoor bike; it is the freedom to exercise whenever you want without having to drive to a commercial gym. Listen to whatever music you want while you train, and you don't have to worry about childcare, waiting for equipment, or cleaning other people's sweat off the machinery.
• Office - working from home isn't for everyone, despite the rapid rise of companies offering this option to staff post-pandemic. Removing the time spent commuting can give us back many hours each week, but our homes are filled with distractions, and some of us simply need to go to work. A home office in the garden can be a welcome compromise. You are at home, with a short commute to the garden, but you are far enough away to not be tempted to load the dishwasher or put on a wash whilst you are trying to work.

These structures not only increase the 'space' in your property but are often what separates your home from another. Every property has a kitchen, a living area, bedrooms, and a bathroom. What makes a buyer choose one over the other is the little extras that will positively impact their lives while they live in the property.

These structures offer more than just additional space. They provide lifestyle changes that go beyond what a standard house can offer. This can significantly influence a buyer's decision, making your property more appealing and increasing its value.

The lifestyle offered to a buyer from these additions can be highlighted in the property marketing to showcase how life in your property can differ from other properties. Depending on the additions, your property will attract the perfect buyer for your home. You will appeal directly to a gym bunny, the hostess with the mostess, or someone who needs to work from home.

If you're fortunate enough to have an outbuilding, you're already in a strong position to attract the right buyer for your home. Use this to your advantage. Showcase your property in a way that demonstrates its unique lifestyle, and you'll be well on your way to securing great offers from motivated buyers.

Contact our team of property experts today to learn more about successfully showcasing your home and finding buyers for your property.