"This research shows just how important sustainable living is and will continue to be going forward. Especially with the increased cost of energy, the interest we’ve had from customers for energy-efficient additions, such as solar panels, has skyrocketed"
According to the findings of a new poll of 2,000 UK adults, Instagrammable aesthetics are being shunned for cost-saving features such as double or triple glazing, good insulation, and an economical central heating system.
The poll, from property management experts, FirstPort, revealed the top 10 features most desired by homeowners so far this year include double or triple glazing (70%), good insulation (61%), good-sized rooms (53%), big garden (50%), an economical central heating system (46%), a private driveway, or dedicated parking (38%), renewable energy system (e.g. solar panels, heat pump) (37%), en-suite bathroom (36%), large windows / good daylight (34%), and a good energy efficiency rating (34%).
The survey also found what works for the ‘gram doesn’t always translate into reality, with previously popular period features like sash windows (3%), ornate fireplaces (13%) and tall ceilings (15%) turning up at the bottom of the property pile.
While 96% of those surveyed say the cost-of-living situation has changed what they’d look for in a home, buyers are prepared to stump up the cash for longer-term gain. House hunters would be willing to pay on average £16,130 to bag a greener property with features such as energy-efficient light fixtures (willing to pay an average of £894 extra) and renewable energy sources (£2,038).
How much house hunters would be willing to pay for additional green features:
Energy efficient lighting: £894
Renewable energy source: £2,038
Smart heating: £1,236
Well-insulated walls: £1,633
A good EPC rating: £1,429
Access to an EV charging point: £1,053
A newly fitted boiler: £1,736
Newly fitted double/triple glazed windows/doors: £2,089
Homeowners need to consider carefully their property must-haves, as its survey revealed 68% of people regret not prioritising green features the last time they moved.
Christian Phipps, Sustainability Manager, at FirstPort said: “This research shows just how important sustainable living is and will continue to be going forward. Especially with the increased cost of energy, the interest we’ve had from customers for energy-efficient additions, such as solar panels, has skyrocketed.
“I would like to think that in the future all homes will have environmentally friendly features. Whilst we recognise there’s still a way to go before we get there, at FirstPort we are absolutely committed to working with our residents and local communities to look at where we can positively contribute to the environment in and around the homes we manage.”
