Homeowners warned that forgetting a simple maintenance job can knock £34,000 off the value of your property

Having an overgrown garden or pets in the home can be a huge deterrent for potential buyers, according to research from My Home Move Conveyancing.

The expert said this could knock a combined total of more than £34,000 off the average property price, so it is best to get your lawnmower out before arranging any house viewings.

Other experts stated tending to your garden could even increase your home's value by £11,000.

They said: "While a well-maintained garden can create a welcoming first impression for potential buyers, failing to keep your garden in check could reduce the offer they are willing to make by 8.2 per cent. This could equate to £23,000 based on current market values."

Signs of pets are another thing people may not think about, but that could drastically impact how likely someone is to make an offer.

Any evidence of your furry friends around the home, such as toys, hairs and pet odours, may cause buyers to turn the other way.

If they do make an offer, they may decrease this by more than £10,000, the research found.

The experts continued: "Managing pet-related aspects such as pet hair, odours or damage around your home can make it feel fresh and inviting.

"It's thought that evidence of an overly pet-friendly home could see buyers offer minus four per cent below market values, which equates to £11,255 in today’s market."

Director of My Home Move Conveyancing Alistair Singer added: “Issues that arise during the survey process can seem daunting for home sellers, as they can ultimately reduce the value they are able to obtain for their property.

"However, by taking proactive measures and being upfront and honest with any potential buyer you can build trust, ultimately leading to fairer negotiations.

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"Often a surveyor will recommend that appropriate specialist reports are instructed which not only give an in-depth analysis of the problem, they usually recommend appropriate action to overcome the issue.

"It is important that you don’t underestimate the impact of these issues as it is likely to affect a lender's decision as to whether they are prepared to give a buyer a mortgage on the property and will also affect the building's insurance premium and in the worst cases, whether insurers are prepared to take the risk.

"By addressing potential issues and rectifying any problems before listing your home, you’ll ensure a smoother transaction process and maintain the value of your property.”