Living in an energy efficient home can reduce your outgoings significantly, not to mention the positive environmental effects, and it’s a top consideration for both homeowners and investors.
New research commissioned by estate agent Jackson-Stops surveyed 2,000 people across the UK and revealed that 21% felt it was more important to reduce CO2 emissions when buying or renting a home than living within one mile of transport links.
Over one fifth (22%) of those people questioned about what they wanted from their next home, specified energy efficiency with electric car charging points and energy efficient appliances most in demand.
Zero emissions by 2050 – every little helps
The research is timely as the UK government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will insist on the installation of charging points for electric vehicles in all new-build homes in England as part of the UK government’s plans to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
The research indicates that the younger generation were the most conscious of their carbon footprint when choosing a property, with a third stating they would like these features in their next home.
Londoners lead the home eco campaign
Of those surveyed in London, 31% stated that reducing CO2 emissions was most important, which was the highest proportion overall.
Nick Leeming, chairman of Jackson-Stops, said: “These responses encompass both renters and buyers, indicating an opportunity not only for housebuilders and build to rent developers but also landlords and vendors.
“Owners of properties with these features should speak to their local agent about any potential premium they can attract in the current market.”
Head of land & new homes at Jackson-Stops for the south-west, James Gibbs, said: “Zero carbon developments are growing in popularity. In recent years, Jackson-Stops has been appointed on several high-profile schemes including Holland Park in Exeter, which was one of the first zero carbon developments in the south-west. House hunters have an increasing desire for homes with energy efficient appliances and we have found that housebuilders are responding to this buyer demand.”
Old and new homes
Not only new-build properties can be designed around a reduced CO2 model; owners of older properties can also improve energy efficiency by making small adaptations and changes like installing new appliances, or larger changes such as replacing windows and doors.
BuyAssociation offers a range of property investment opportunities to both owner-occupiers and investors, including a mixture of new-builds and period conversions. Take a look at some of what we have available on our investments page.
