A new survey commissioned by Metro from estate agency Yopa suggests that UK heatwaves may be cooling the traditional premium attached to properties with south-facing gardens. The survey of 1,000 homeowners found that 81% have avoided spending time in their gardens this summer because of the weather. While south-facing gardens still command an average price premium of 7.1% — equivalent to £20,689 at the current average English house price of £291,445 — almost one in five Brits (18%) believe that value will fade over the next decade due to hotter summers.
Changing attitudes toward sun-traps
Yopa surveyed UK homeowners to gauge how recent heatwaves have altered preferences for south-facing gardens, which have long been prized for maximum direct sunlight. The latest listings data shows that properties in England with a south-facing orientation currently attract a premium of £20,689 on average. However, when asked about the biggest garden-related downside of extreme summer temperatures, the most common response was that it becomes too hot to sit outside. Other drawbacks included strain on lawns and plants, lack of shade, and higher water bills from keeping gardens alive and using paddling pools.
Social media reactions and real-life experiences
On social media, Brits have shared the perils of south-facing gardens and bedrooms. One Reddit user said: “I feel like all the liquid in my body is slowly evaporating.” Opinions on the platform were mixed, with some saying heatwaves have changed their views, while others dismissed it as “a few days per year.” On Instagram, renovation blogger @the_fram_house posted about the benefits of a north-facing garden, attracting comments from jealous followers. Colin Peters wrote: “I have a south-facing garden and it is unbearable on days over 25 degrees.” Lucille Grace added: “I’ve got a south west-facing garden … This week has been grim.” Steph Pearce noted: “We used to have a south-facing garden and it was horrendous … Now we don’t, [we’re] so much happier and use the garden more.”
Despite drawbacks, current preference remains
Despite these complaints, 82% of those surveyed said a south-facing garden would still be their preferred option for now, and 28% would happily pay the premium to secure one. However, this could change if temperatures continue to climb and UK heatwaves become more common. While one in 10 believe the added value will hold over the next decade, almost one in five think otherwise.
Expert commentary
Verona Frankish, chief executive officer of Yopa, commented: “South-facing gardens have long been one of the most sought-after features amongst homebuyers, and it’s easy to see why. More hours of sunshine means greater enjoyment of outdoor space … and that enduring appeal has naturally translated into a house price premium. However, with temperatures already reaching record highs this year, many homeowners have found themselves actively avoiding their gardens. So, whilst a south-facing garden remains the orientation of choice for many buyers today, a changing climate and increasingly frequent heatwaves could start to diminish their appeal.”
