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What is “in” and what is “out” when selling your property

Friday, August 12, 2022

Recent analysis of the key selling features on property listings by Rightmove has revealed which features are “in” and which have become less popular, over the last few years. Unsurprisingly, garden offices have grown massively in popularity during the pandemic, with more people working from home. Second on the list are bi-fold doors, often on buyers “most wanted” lists and listed as a key feature 589% more than 10 years ago. Also “in” are orangeries (up 173%) and underfloor heating (up 114%). Summer houses listed as a key feature are up by 90%, while greenhouses are waning as a selling point, decreasing by 46%.

With an increasing move towards the use of electric vehicles, the number of new property listings mentioning an electric car charging point has risen six times (+495%) over the last 12 months, as environment issues continue to be a priority.

Modern open-plan options are gaining popularity with buyers and dining rooms are 285 less likely to be mentioned within the key selling points of a property listing on Rightmove. Also decreasing in popularity are conservatories (-52%) and fitted wardrobes (-29%), although a walk-in wardrobe could be a significant selling point for some.

"Agents and developers have their finger on the pulse when it comes to the home features that will attract suitable buyers. Where dining rooms and fitted wardrobes may not be as important to some potential buyers compared with ten years ago, other features like an outdoor office space have soared as working patterns have changed, and the findings indicate a move towards greener features too," Rightmove’s Tim Bannister said. "With outside space coming at such a premium, it may be that homeowners are ensuring what they build outside can be used in a number of different ways. For example, summer houses and orangeries are likely to have fewer or smaller windows than conservatories, and so can more suitably double up as home offices during the week and entertaining spaces at the weekend."

James Holmear, group sales director at housebuilder Redrow, added: “These findings flow from the demand for more space at home which can accommodate blended personal and professional lives. Home offices have been increasing in popularity as many people continue to work from home on a more permanent basis.” He went on: “Bifold doors are also highly sought after as they enable people to use space flexibly and extend their living space seamlessly into the outdoors. Sustainable features such as EV chargers, solar panels, water butts and eco waste bins are all rising up the priority list.”

Steve Rule, group design and technical director at Cala Homes, commented: “Over the last couple of years there has been a real shift in what home-hunters are looking for. Buyers are considering in much more detail what they really want and need from their home, and on truly optimising their space, especially as many are spending more time there through home or hybrid working.” He added: “From a sustainability point of view, smart home tech has become very important. Underfloor heating is becoming more popular, both for environmental reasons and for the improved aesthetic it offers. We’re also rolling out various energy saving measures in our homes which have risen up the agenda for our buyers – from air source heat pumps and EV charging points to water saving fittings and PV/solar panels.”

If you are starting the search for your dream home or are thinking of putting your property on the market, contact your nearest Frost office and talk to your local property expert.