This had a profound effect on many people's sense of wellbeing.
With a post-COVID-19 world on the horizon thanks to the vaccines, independent data from Atomik Research, commissioned by Canary Wharf Group, reveals exactly what buyers want from their homes in this unchartered future. The data reveals the changing habits of purchasers, how a move to the countryside may not be on everyone’s mind and maps what city life may look like in the future.
When asked what factors were most important to them when moving home, 43% of people said that the ability to visit family and friends and the proximity to shops, cafes and green spaces ranked highest. This suggests that after almost a year without seeing those closest to us, as well being unable to visit amenities and many people not having access to outdoor space, these will become top of purchasers’ wish lists when looking for their next home.
Many people’s wellbeing has been affected by their living environments during the lockdowns and data has also revealed what they think will improve this when choosing where to live next. 51% of people said that having access to outdoor space, an abundance of natural light and pleasing views onto water or green space would improve their wellbeing.
The importance of water to wellbeing has been proven in various studies, which suggest that living near a body of water means that people are encouraged to be more physically active and can lead to the reduction of stress. In addition, research suggests spending just 20 minutes in a park or open outdoor space is one of the best ways to improve wellbeing.
What 2020 and COVID-19 have really shown is the importance of community. Researchers revealed that community activity and involvement gives people a sense of purpose and identity3, so it is no wonder that 61% of respondents have said that it is important to them to live in a thriving neighbourhood.
The data suggests that what purchasers are really looking for is light, bright homes in communities that benefit their wellbeing, provide interest and convenience.
As has been reported many people moved to the countryside to find these homes, but according to a professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science, this doesn’t mean that cities will be empty4. Many people enjoy the benefits of city living and want these types of homes in central locations. The question is, what will inner-city living look like in a post-COVID-19 world and how will homes be designed to cater for purchasers changing habits.
Brian De’ath, Director of Residential Sales at Canary Wharf Group, comments: “The pandemic has altered the way people look at their homes and given many of them time to think about their future. As can be seen from the data, people want more from the places they live, both in the physical bricks and mortar as well as the immediate external surroundings; things such as access to green space and amenities are now priorities in their search for a new home.
“It will be up to developers to truly adapt to these changing habits and wants, and design schemes that positively impact the communities around them.”
