Garden turn-offs and turn-ons

Mature shrubs and trees coupled with a paved patio area are the nation's favoured garden features, according to research by Halifax Estate Agents.

At the bottom of the list and the potentially most off putting features of prospective properties are general rubbish and mess caused by family pets.

Turn-ons

When asked which garden features people would be attracted to in a potential property to buy or to rent, almost two-thirds of people chose established shrubs and trees (63%). Over half (58%) said a flagged patio area would increase the appeal and almost as many (57%) said a garden shed or greenhouse.

Rose gardens and water features also proved popular, with 42% and 43% respectively indicating they would consider these attractive features.

Just over a third (37%) of people said decking would be an attractive feature – placing it 6th on the list. Decking proved more popular with younger adults, with well over half (54%) of 16-24 year-olds saying they would be attracted by it. This figure fell to one in five (20%) for those aged 65+.

Turn-offs

General rubbish proved to be the nation's biggest turn-off, with over two-thirds of people (67%) saying it would put them off the garden of a prospective property. Close behind was mess from dogs or cats (59%).

The Halifax Estate Agents' study also showed that privacy is important when it comes to choosing a garden. Over four in ten (43%) of people surveyed said being overlooked by neighbours would put them off. Privacy was considered more of an issue by those in Anglia (54%), Northern Ireland (52%) and the South West (52%) compared to those in London with under a third (31%) saying it would put them off a prospective property.

Gnomes prove controversial

In the survey of our favourite and least favourite garden features garden gnomes split the nation. It appears we either love them or hate them. Almost one in ten (9%) of those surveyed said a garden with gnomes would attract them to a potential property to buy or rent. Conversely, 17% said it would put them off.

Those aged 55-64 found gnomes least appealing with one in four (24%) saying it would put them off

Top ten garden tips

No matter what features you choose to have in your garden there are a number of simple tips homeowners can follow to help enhance the appeal of their gardens:

Ensure shrubs, trees and hedges are kept trim – this will not only enhance the appearance but will maximise the light your garden gets

Weed any flowerbeds regularly – this will help the garden look tidy and cared for

Avoid grass growing too long

Ensure wood work (fencing, decking and sheds) is well cared for and adequately weather treated. This well help to freshen the look of your garden as well as helping to preserve the wood and avoid any costly repairs.

If you have a patio area coved in dirt or moss try using a pressure washer to clean it up – this will have an immediate impact of the appearance of your garden.

Try adding a splash of colour by including a few planted tubs or pots. These needn't be costly and if you move home you can always take them with you.

Colin Kemp, Managing Director, Halifax Estate Agents, comments: "Homeowners should treat their garden as they would any other room in their home. Ensuring it is tidy and well kept can dramatically enhance the appeal of a property. Our research showed that traditional favourites such as a patio area and greenery are still fashionable and that general rubbish is a big turn-off."