MILLIONS OF HOMEOWNERS TO INVEST IN OUTDOOR SPACES THIS SUMMER
Findings from Checkatrade’s annual Home Pride Index, show that despite the return to the office and many adopting a hybrid work lifestyle, homeowners still intend to turn an existing shed or outbuilding into a home study (16%).
However, it’s not all work and no play, as homeowners also have plans to install a new garden room to use at their leisure (16%) and a further 14% want to add a conservatory to bring the outside in.
Whilst the outdoors can often be forgotten about, as home improvement inside the home takes over, it’s clear these spring and summer months, Brits will invest in their garden to both give their home a refresh (37%) and add value (30%).
In fact, homeowners spent on average £830 on their garden alone in the past year (+106% year-on-year increase) with future plans including installing an electric vehicle charging point (22%), or a hot tub (14%) while just under a fifth (18%) plan to build a shed.
A total of 28% intend to give their garden a complete makeover with 1 in 4 (25%) planning to repaint the shed or fencing ready for the warmer months
Other external improvements on homeowner’s to-do lists include replacing fences (21%), fixing the roof (17%) and installing solar panels (17%). Over the next year, 13% also plan to make some sort of landscaping related renovations to their property.
However, more than a third (37%) admit they would rather invest in a professional tradesperson, than attempt to carry out DIY jobs themselves, showing the value homeowners place on experts and their own time.
Mike Fairman, CEO at Checkatrade, said: ‘’Whether your garden needs a little TLC or a complete makeover, investing in your outdoor spaces can really help elevate the appeal and value of a home and one you can be proud of too.
“When planning your garden revamp, make sure you use a reputable and checked professional to help bring those ideas to life.’’
