New research by YouGov (on behalf of Blenheim Estate Homes and Pye Homes) has revealed that an energy-efficient home is one of the most important factors for UK house hunters.
Of those surveyed, 64% said they would want solar panels to be fitted as standard to a new home; 42% said homes with EV charging points were a must-have; and 35% said an air source heat pump was top of their list.
In addition, 71% surveyed felt that high-quality insulation was a deciding factor when looking for a new home.
Alex Rose, Director of Corporate Agency and New Homes at Zoopla, said:
Rising energy costs and an increased awareness of climate change are beginning to impact the priorities of home buyers. For environmentally conscious buyers, new-build homes are a great choice. Not only are they more energy-efficient – but they also cost less to run and can save you 52% on energy costs over a year in comparison to resale homes.
This trend is something we expect to see continue in years to come as the government introduces additional policies to improve energy efficiency and reduce the UK’s carbon emissions.
Graham Flint, Managing Director of Pye Homes, said:
Like our customers, we are always looking to the future, and our goal is to provide homes which are truly made for life. This research shows the importance of continuing to build homes which are highly energy-efficient, not only for the environmental factor, but to ensure our homes continue to appeal to buyers with an evolving list of requirements as the market changes.
According to Money Saving Expert, a growing number of mainstream lenders are now offering so-called green mortgages. For buyers moving into an energy-efficient home with a high EPC rating, such as those at Pye Homes’ Church Farm, lenders will reward them with a better interest rate or cashback on the mortgage.
Lenders are willing to offer this type of incentive because they increasingly see energy-efficient properties as less risky purchases and more likely to hold their value. Plus, if a homeowner is spending less on their energy bills each month, there’s less chance they’ll struggle to meet their mortgage repayments.
