Gardens can be used to help beat the credit crunch, Yorkshire Bank has claimed.
New research from the bank found that homeowners believe their gardens to be worth over £9,000, while those without one would pay over a third of their annual salary to acquire one.
Yorkshire Bank's quarterly Homebuyers Report found that many people are trying to use their gardens to increase the value of a home.
A large majority (90 per cent) of people with gardens say they use it at least once a week.
Hanging out washing was the biggest use, followed by socialising and using it as a place for children to play.
Home insurance provider Halifax has issued advice on how to keep houses safe ahead of bad weather being predicted by the Met Office.
Outdoor furniture should be secured while gates and doors must be securely fastened.
Low hanging branches, which can cause damage during storms, should be cut back.
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home insurance options to secure the value of the property and gardens.