A new fence can add instant street appeal

If you’re putting your home on the market, a new fence is often one of the easiest ways to add instant street appeal and attract potential buyers. But how much does that idyllic white picket fence cost?

Forget fancy renders, extensive landscaping and expensive paint jobs. Before plunging your hand too deep into your pockets you should consider a much simpler and cheaper way of improving your home’s facade: fencing.

A new fence is one of the most overlooked home improvements.

Homeowners often approach fencing with the attitude, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” so even if their fence has a permanent lean, as long as it’s still standing it’s given little or no attention.

A pretty new fence can actually go a long way in improving the look of your home and actually cost you very little.

Some budget fencing jobs start from just $2,000.

Size matters

The average metre rate is $50.* This typically includes labour and fencing materials. The metre rate increases depending on the size of your fence.

Fencing materials generally come in three standard heights 1.2m, 1.6m, and 1.8m. The longer your fence, the cheaper it should be and vice versa. If you require a short run (under 10m) the per metre fencing rate would be more expensive.

The total price also depends on the fencing material selected. The rate is generally for cheaper materials such as classic timber and wire, while you need to fork out more for something fancy like glass.

Colorbond your home

It’s the ‘American dream’ to have a white picket fence; it goes hand-in-hand with the beautiful big house, golden retriever and 2.4 kids.

But in Australia, it’s all about Colorbond, arguably our own national icon. If you need proof of Colorbond’s popularity simply look up and down your street.

Australia’s climate is a box of surprises, with most homes subjected to a various array of extremes each season, so it’s important to select a durable fencing material that also looks good.

That’s where Colorbond comes in. You will pay more for quality – a 1.8m Colorbond fence costs an average of $6,270 – but it is an investment in sustainability, and may save you down the track.

Spoilt for choice

Homeowners with a more traditional taste still opt for timber picket or wrought iron fencing, while those interested in building a fence with a difference might go with something slightly less conventional.

Concrete fencing has been transformed from tasteless to chic and is often found bordering inner-city apartment blocks and guarding high-end homes. Brick is another type of fencing that has come of age. But for those seeking an eco-chic option bamboo is a budget friendly alternative.   

Whatever your final choice, make sure you take the time to consider your options and work out what type of fencing best suits your needs – whether that’s something flashy to “wow” starry eyed buyers or something more durable to impress those who value quality fixtures.

What should you look for in quality fencing contractor?

Check they have:

• Current ABN

• Valid fencing license (check different state requirements)

• References and positive customer testimonials

• Written quotation detailing all inclusions

• Public liability insurance

SOURCE: www.realestate.com.au