Landlords - How Does Your Garden Grow?

Date Published 16 March 2026

When you sell a property it's natural to make sure it looks well-kept and looked after. The whole idea of why 'kerb appeal' can be so important is based on the old adage that first impressions really do count.

When landlords are looking for a new tenant there is so much to take on board. From checking 'right to rent' status, doing due diligence on the ability to afford the rent, dealing with deposits right through to making sure that the property itself is competitive in the sector of the market you are aiming at.

That last point is key. If you are looking to attract tenants willing to pay top scale rent then high-end brand name appliances need to be given the right level of attention. If your business plan is focused on a busy local student market then other considerations will come into play. There are different matters to take into account whatever your aims.

However, in each and every case you will be looking for people who will take care of the property and treat it with respect. What's more, even in these times of record levels of high demand in the rental sector, you do have to find tenants who actually want to live there as well.

Gardens - literally!

Most old proverbs and sayings are based on some truths and we all know that first impressions really do matter. If a property has a front garden that looks unkempt and uncared for it provokes an immediate reaction. Likewise, if your rental has the added attraction of a garden space it is something that can be a big selling point, both in attracting the right tenants and commanding higher rental income.

If you are aiming at young families with a view to finding someone who will be a long-term stable tenant this aspect can be key. So it stands to reason that taking some time and effort will pay off. Making sure the area is at least clean and tidy is the minimum, and being presented as a mature garden ready to enjoy all year round will pay dividends in the long run.

Gardens - metaphorically!

Tending for and looking after a garden has many similarities to being a long-term successful landlord. In fact, 'how does your garden grow' is another old saying that has multiple applications to life.

Finding the best tenants can be like planting a seed and if your business plan is to have stable, responsible long-stay tenants things do need to be nurtured and relationships developed along the way.

It's pretty much the same for any business venture that involves investment and financial outlay. The simple trick to ensure success is to make sure you take the best approach right from the start.

Gardeners and letting agents...

Ok, so we might be pushing the connection a little here, but in truth our job is a little like being a gardening contractor that takes on the planning and heavy lifting for our clients.

It involves a lot more than taking on the 'red tape' paperwork and legal compliance side of things, which is only set to grow as The Renters' Rights Act comes into full force in the coming weeks.

It's actually more about making sure you get the best return on your investment. For instance, did you know that landlords can claim gardening costs as a tax-deductible expense? www.gov.uk guidance clearly states that costs of services, including the wages of gardeners, are considered part of the allowable maintenance and repairs.

The one pitfall is that this only applies if the work is done to maintain the property to its original standard when let, i.e. regular mowing, weeding and so on rather than for any improvement works.

These types of relatively subtle distinctions can make the difference when it comes to maximising ROI and there are many others that are similar which you might not be aware of - that's where we come into the picture.

If you are a landlord with property in West Sussex call Lettings Director Ian Colban or Property Manager Julie Fivash on 01903 608 080 or email us and find out how we can help your rental portfolio come into bloom!