June 27, 2025 | DampHub News
Selling Your Home This Summer? Certain Property Features Could Add Over £22K to Your Asking Price
New research shows that certain seasonal property features could increase your asking price by over £22,000.
According to a study commissioned by Zoopla, in partnership with more than 100 UK estate agents, key outdoor additions such as a sunny garden, hot tub, or swimming pool are likely to attract premium offers during summer months.
In fact, nearly half of homeowners (47%) admitted they had paid more for a property due to features that stood out at the time of year they viewed it. This seasonal influence, dubbed “seasonal spend,” can add as much as £27,000 to a final purchase price.
Why Seasonality Affects Property Prices
The data shows how emotions and first impressions play a big role in buying decisions. Summer highlights outdoor appeal, while winter brings attention to cosy features like fireplaces and underfloor heating. Buyers naturally picture themselves enjoying those perks in the current season—and they’re willing to pay more when the experience feels real.
Estate agents say understanding this seasonal trend can help both buyers and sellers make smarter decisions about when to list or when to buy.
6 Property Features That Boost Summer Value
Based on an average three-bedroom home worth £324,000, these features showed the biggest summer price lifts:
- Swimming pool – adds 1.82% (£5,897)
- South-facing or sunny garden – adds 1.8% (£5,832)
- Outdoor entertainment area – adds 1.66% (£5,378)
- Air conditioning – adds 1.52% (£4,925)
- Balcony – adds 1.24% (£4,018)
- Hot tub – adds 0.87% (£2,819)
These figures show the extra sellers can potentially gain by listing in summer—provided these features are showcased properly.
1. Swimming Pool – £5,897 Added Value
A swimming pool can increase the asking price by up to 1.82%, or around £5,897. While installation costs for in-ground pools can be steep, buyers prefer homes where the work is already done. It’s a major attraction for summer viewings.
2. South-Facing or Sunny Garden – £5,832 Added Value
This one’s a classic. A garden that catches the sun is a big deal for UK buyers—especially when the weather is warm. It’s not something that can be changed post-sale, so it’s often a deciding factor.
3. Outdoor Entertainment Area – £5,378 Added Value
Decking, patios, built-in BBQs or even fire pits all boost appeal. Buyers love move-in-ready outdoor spaces for summer socialising. These setups can raise value by an average of 1.66%.
4. Air Conditioning – £4,925 Added Value
As UK summers get warmer, air conditioning is growing in demand. The research shows homes with AC see a value bump of 1.52%. Since AC systems aren’t cheap or easy to install, buyers view it as a ready-made luxury.
5. Balcony – £4,018 Added Value
Especially valuable in urban homes, a balcony can add over £4K to the asking price. It’s one of the few ways to secure private outdoor space in flats, and becomes a major draw during summer months.
6. Hot Tub – £2,819 Added Value
Even a simple hot tub can enhance lifestyle appeal. Buyers are often willing to pay more for homes that already have one, especially when viewed on a warm day. Permanent or high-end models increase desirability further.
What the Experts Say About Seasonal Trends
Daniel Copley, consumer spokesperson at Zoopla, said:
“The research clearly demonstrates that home buyers are swayed by the season and, in some cases, certain features can help sellers achieve more for their home.
While it’s human nature to be drawn to features like a stunning garden or cool pool in summer—or a roaring fire in winter—buyers should also consider the running costs of those features.”
Claire Carter, estate agent at John D Wood & Co, added:
“The country house market has always had a natural rhythm with the seasons—not just in terms of features, but location too.
Coastal homes in particular look their best when the sun is shining. The same goes for swimming pools and tennis courts.
In winter, it’s the fire, the underfloor heating—those little lifestyle touches that turn a viewing into a sale.”
She also said:
“A house photographed in January looks completely different by May. During winter, I tell clients to light the fire and warm the place up. In summer, show off the garden, open the terrace doors—it makes a real difference.”
Buyers are also showing increased interest in features like natural swimming ponds, which offer year-round appeal and lower environmental impact.
What This Means for Sellers
If your property has any of these summer-friendly features, this season could be your best chance to get a higher price. Whether you’re adding a new balcony, installing a hot tub, or refreshing your garden, small home improvement ideas can lead to a significant return.
And while summer upgrades boost value, don’t overlook year-round concerns. Issues like penetrating or rising damp can reduce your home’s appeal even during the sunniest months.
Visit our DampHub guide to treating damp in homes and learn how to fix and prevent it before listing your property.
If you’re buying, on the other hand, being flexible with your moving date might help you snag a better deal on homes that shine in the opposite season.
The Zoopla study was carried out by Mortar Research in June 2025 and involved more than 100 UK estate agents and 1,000 homeowners.
