Does a garden office add value to your property?

With the rise of remote working and the desire for personal space, homeowners are increasingly exploring the potential of garden offices. Not only do these structures provide a dedicated workspace, but they also offer the possibility of enhancing the value of a property. But does a garden office truly add value? Let's delve into the details.

The trend of remote work is set to continue, potentially increasing garden offices' value. These offices are versatile and suitable for hobbies, crafts, or even as a relaxation room. A garden office can make a property more attractive to buyers, possibly accelerating the selling process. Various garden office types cater to different needs and budgets. It's crucial to ensure proper insulation, ventilation, and adherence to building codes.

What is a garden office?

A garden office is a standalone structure, typically located in the garden or backyard of a property. It serves as a dedicated workspace, separate from the main house, providing a quiet and focused environment for work or study.

Why are garden offices becoming increasingly popular? The shift towards remote working, spurred by the pandemic, has led many to seek out dedicated workspaces at home. Garden offices offer a solution that doesn't compromise the living space within the main house.

What are the benefits of having a garden office?

Beyond the obvious advantage of a quiet workspace, a dedicated office space can enhance the overall appeal of a property, offering a modern and stylish addition that stands out to potential buyers.

Attract buyers who work from home

With hybrid working arrangements, people may not be doing the daily commute to the office anymore, but often they’ll still want the structure of leaving the house to go to work. A garden room offers privacy and provides that physical and mental distance between home life and work life.

Similarly, if your prospective buyer is a small business owner, they may also perceive your property to be of higher value because they could save on rent by working from their garden.

The space is also fully flexible and could be transformed into something else by the next owner – garden rooms work well as home gyms, for example.

How much value can a garden office add to your home?

With many people continuing to work from home, the rise of hybrid and remote working has significantly increased the demand for home office spaces.

Garden offices in particular are proving popular because they don’t take up valuable floor space inside a house while providing a dedicated space where work and home life can easily be separated.

Tabitha Cumming, a property expert from The Lease Extension Company, estimates that the value added by a garden office could be as much as 15% for those with added features such as a wifi connection, insulation and electricity.

Factors that affect the value added by a garden office

Size of the garden office

The size of the garden office plays a significant role in the value it adds. Larger offices generally contribute more value due to the increase in floor space. However, it's essential to ensure the office size is proportionate to the garden's size.

Quality of the garden office

A high-quality garden office, built with durable materials and modern design, can significantly boost a property's value. It's more than just a 'posh shed'; it's a functional and appealing addition to the home.

Location of the property

The property's location can influence the value added by a garden office. In areas where remote working is prevalent, such an addition might be more valuable.

Current market conditions

The property market's current state will also impact the value added. With the increasing trend of remote work, the demand for garden offices is likely to rise, making them a valuable asset.

Tips for maximising the value added by your garden office

When thinking about adding a garden office to your property, taking the following tips into consideration can improve its functionality and also increase the overall worth and appeal to prospective buyers.

Position

Select a garden spot with a balance of sunlight and shade. A location overlooking a scenic part of your garden can enhance your workspace ambiance.

Longevity

Choose durable materials for longevity. Regular maintenance, like treating wood and checking for leaks, ensures your office stays pristine.

Size

Consider both current and future space needs. Ensure there's room for essential equipment and incorporate storage to minimise clutter.

Style

Design your garden office to match your home's aesthetic. Features like large windows or bi-fold doors can merge indoor and outdoor vibes.

Adding Insulation

Effective insulation makes your office comfortable all year. Eco-friendly options can boost energy efficiency and reduce costs.

Electricity Supply

A safe electricity connection is vital. Plan for your power needs, from multiple outlets to specialised wiring.

Wifi connection

A robust internet connection is key. Invest in a Wi-Fi extender or dedicated line, and consider wired solutions for stability.

Potential tax incentives

Whether you are self-employed or employed by a business, you may be able to get tax deductions on your garden office. Generally, the office itself and the structure wouldn’t count as an allowable expense, but any other costs related to wiring, plumbing, fixtures and fittings and insulation could benefit from tax relief.

Does a Garden Room add value to your home?

Garden rooms have become a sought-after addition to many homes, offering a unique blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. As homeowners seek to maximise their living space and adapt to changing lifestyles, a garden room provides a separate, versatile space that doesn't compromise the existing rooms in your home.

We explore the benefits, factors and tips in our separate guide on how a garden room could add value to your home. 

Final thoughts

As the trend of remote work continues to grow, having a separate, at-home workspace becomes an attractive feature for many. As well as the added convenience, the potential appeal of a home office to future buyers can also add real value to the price of any property.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know adding a garden office is the right choice?

Consider the size of your garden, your work requirements and your budget. Consulting with a local estate agent can also provide insights.

Are there specific design considerations when planning a garden office?

Focus on functionality, insulation and aesthetics. Ensure the design complements both your property and garden.

Can I use my garden office for other purposes besides working from home?

Absolutely. Garden offices are versatile and can be used as a hobby room or even a gym.

Will a garden office increase my council tax?

If a property undergoes improvements, its Council Tax band remains unchanged until it's sold or all domestic properties undergo a general revaluation. This ensures homeowners aren't penalised for enhancing their home.

Which is better, a garden office or an extension? 

While both developments will increase the value of your home, there are certain advantages garden offices have over extensions, not least the fact that they cost less and, in most cases, no planning permission is required. There’s also the fact that garden offices are easier to install and cause far less disruption during construction.

We go into more detail on this subject in our article The Value of Garden Buildings vs Extensions.