The value of your property could soar by ‘thousands’ if you make certain ‘desirable’ improvements to your home, a new study by Zoopla has revealed. The research, which gathered data from more than 100 UK estate agents, looked at how much they would market homes with specific features between May and August compared to other times of the year. Based on a three-bedroom property with an average UK house price of £324,000 as a baseline, the study found that a south-facing or sunny garden could potentially add £5,832 to the asking price. Other features that could command a higher price in the summer include a balcony, which could add £4,018, and swimming pools or hot tubs, which could add £5,897 and £2,819 respectively. Agents also estimated that air conditioning could add around £4,925 to the asking price. However, some features are more valuable in the winter months. A traditional wood-burning fireplace could add £4,568 to the asking price, while a range-style cooker could add £3,337. Under-floor heating could also potentially increase a property’s value by an average of £3,985, while energy-saving features like double glazing might add around £3,402, according to recent estimates. Buyers, on the other hand, may be able to snag a bargain by purchasing a home with certain features “out of season”. The study suggests that buyers who are flexible with their moving dates may be able to save thousands of pounds by buying a home with summer-friendly features in the winter, or vice versa. By understanding how the value of certain features fluctuates throughout the year, buyers and sellers can make more informed decisions about when to buy or sell a property. The actual impact of such features on a home’s market value can vary greatly, influenced by factors including the property’s UK location, local buyer demand, and the appeal of other attributes within the residence. Daniel Copley, consumer spokesperson at Zoopla, commented: “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 is human nature to be drawn to features like a stunning garden, or cool pool in summer, or under floor heating during winter, home buyers should bear in mind that they will also face ongoing running costs for these items, especially with regards to energy usage. Buyers should therefore factor this into their budget. “Sellers should seek tailored advice from an estate agent, as all homes differ and an expert can determine if a property may fetch a higher price in the summer months.” Claire Carter at John D Wood & Co, also said: “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 and the same goes for swimming pools and tennis courts. It’s not necessarily the case that features add value, but they become more emotionally compelling – a roaring fire on a cold winter’s day or a glorious garden in summer can absolutely tip a buyer’s decision. “The time of year matters hugely for presentation, for example, a house photographed in January looks completely different by May. When selling in winter, I always encourage my clients to light the fire and turn on the underfloor heating because nobody wants to feel chilly on a viewing. During summer, it is all about showing the house in its element with blooming gardens, blue skies, and sun-dappled terraces.” Claire continued: “I’m also seeing growing demand for natural swimming ponds or lakes, which tend to hold their appeal year-round. Buyers are increasingly aware of the health benefits – they’re better for the environment, chemical-free, and fit more naturally with the landscape. “Unlike a traditional pool, which feels seasonal, a well-designed swimming lake can feel like part of the countryside, being usable in summer and beautiful even in winter. Ultimately, selling a country house is about capturing the imagination of buyers and helping them to imagine their life there, whatever the season.” The estate agents’ research was carried out by Mortar Research in June. A study conducted by Mortar Research in June, involving 1,000 homeowners, revealed that nearly half ended up paying more for a property due to the season in which they bought their home – with the additional expenditure averaging at £27,000. Nonetheless, many remain optimistic about future gains, with 71 percent of participants expressing belief that their property would be more appealing if put on the market during an opportune time of year.