With summer in full swing and a new season of Love Island back on screens, Brits are rushing to recreate the villa’s vibe at home – from neon-lit patios to DIY fire pits and bold garden bars.
But while it may look good on Instagram, experts say these showy upgrades could put off serious buyers.
Terry Fisher, property expert at We Buy Any Home, says certain trends seen in the villa can quietly wipe as much as £10,000 off your asking price.
“Buyers want low-maintenance, versatile spaces they can make their own,” said Terry. “When a garden is filled with quirky features like bright artificial turf, OTT fire pits or fixed bars, it can feel cluttered or impractical. It’s fun for a summer party – but it’s not always what people want long-term.”
The Love Island villa is famous for its glossy outdoor aesthetics – mood lighting, fairy lights, tropical touches and bold, colourful furniture. But in real life, these high-maintenance upgrades don’t always hold their value.
“People see these setups on TV and want to replicate the vibe, but we’ve had buyers walk away because a garden feels too ‘themed’ or overwhelming,” Mr Fisher explained.
“Decking that dominates the space, fixed hot tubs, even fire pits – they can raise concerns about upkeep, safety and personal taste.”
Neon signs and artificial grass are another big trend – but while they photograph well, Mr Fisher warns they can feel tacky or off-putting in person, particularly to older or more traditional buyers.
Instead of flashy gimmicks, Mr Fisher recommends going for a timeless, neutral look – the kind of space a future buyer can imagine themselves in.
“A neat patio, smart lighting, fresh paint on fences and some well-kept greenery go a long way,” he said. “You want the space to feel calm, spacious and usable – not like a themed set.”
Simple touches like a small seating area, tidy lawn and low-maintenance plants create a more inviting space – and appeal to a wider range of buyers.
“If you wouldn’t want to spend a Sunday morning maintaining it, chances are your buyer won’t either,” Mr Fisher said. “The goal is to help people picture themselves relaxing in the space, not wondering how much it’ll cost to rip it all out.”
He added: “So before you splash out on that villa-inspired makeover, it’s worth considering whether it’s helping your home’s value – or quietly dragging it down.”