How much is garden land worth?

What is garden land? 

Garden land refers to segments of a homeowner’s garden that can be sold. Buyers may use this land to extend for land assembly, further development, or commercial use.  

Is garden land for sale? 

The best way to determine a neighbour’s willingness to sell their garden land is to have a direct conversation with them. Some factors may influence their decision, including the size of their garden and future sale plans for their property. 

What factors affect how much garden land is worth?  

There are several key factors that affect the worth of garden land, including: 

• Location: The location of the land is a significant factor in its value. Properties located in desirable areas with good transport links and amenities are likely to be more valuable than those in less desirable areas. Urban garden land 
• Land condition and age: Well-maintained land can command higher prices, as can land in a new development rather than surrounded by old buildings. Soil quality, drainage, and topography (slope) affect the land’s condition, potential for development, and therefore value.  

• Garden size: Often, larger plots of land are more valuable in comparison to smaller ones, although this can vary depending on the market and development potential.  

• Adjacent property value: The value of adjacent houses also plays a role in the potential value uplift of garden land. 

• Zoning: Properties zones for commercial or residential may be more valuable than those zones for agricultural and other uses.  

• Parking availability: Land that could provide additional parking may be more valuable. 

• Planning permission & development potential: Existing permissions often enhance land value because it demonstrates the potential for further development or improvement, making it more attractive to buyers and developers. Similarly, properties that can be developed for residential or commercial use are likely to be more valuable than those that cannot.  

• Development controls: If developing on the garden land, there will be various rules and regulations that govern the construction – including land use, land tax, premise level, and floor area ratio. These will all be factored into the land valuation. 

What is the average price of garden land in the UK? 

Recent research by The Grass People indicates that garden land prices can average at £1,526 per square metre, though this varies widely depending on specific circumstances. 

For a more localised average value figure, consider the local government listings available online.  which offer average land values. However, remember that these figures are general and do not account for specific plot features. 

How do I value my plot of land? 

Enlisting an experienced RICS Registered Valuer with experience of carrying out land valuations in your area is the first step. At Watsons, we’re proud to offer the best local knowledge and industry expertise in valuations and surveys across the nation.  

As the seller, consulting with a professional is essential in setting a realistic asking price. If you set the price too high, you may need support finding a buyer from an estate agent or revalue if the land does not sell within a reasonable period. On the other hand, setting your garden price too could cause you to miss out on potential profits.  

As the buyer, a professional valuation can help determine whether the land is a good investment and the asking price is fair. A surveyor will also be able to inspect the condition of the land and identify any potential issues, allowing you to make an informed decision ahead of purchasing the land. 

Methods used by Registered Valuers to calculate land value typically include: 

1. Comparable Method: Compares similar recently sold plots, adjusting for variables like size and location. 

1. Marriage Value Method: Evaluates the increase in property value by incorporating the garden land, shared typically in a 50:50 arrangement. 

What other benefits are there to hiring a Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer for a land valuation? 

• Sale guidance and pricing: Expert valuation ensures realistic pricing for both the buyer and seller, ensuring a fair price is paid for the land.  

• Informed decisions: A valuation prevents overpayment and provides professional insights that will inform you ahead of making a purchase decision with confidence. 

• Tax planning: Valuing land can be beneficial for tax purposes, including calculating capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and stamp duty land tax. 

Other key considerations when buying or selling garden land: 

• Tax implications: Selling garden sections while retaining the main residence might exempt you from capital gains tax through Private Residence Relief (PRR). Always consult an Independent Financial Adviser for up-to-date, tailored tax advice. 

• The process: Selling or buying garden land involves steps such as obtaining lender consent if a mortgage is present, and the legal formalities managed by a conveyancing solicitor, especially concerning title transfers through a Transfer of Part of Registered Title (TP1). 

• Restrictive covenants: A conveyancing solicitor can verify any restrictive covenants that might limit the future use of the land, crucial information for any prospective buyer.