If you are renovating a property or thinking about selling you might think a fancy kitchen or a smart bathroom will lure in buyers. But, you’d be wrong – according to new research, it’s security and connectivity that sells homes these days.
Central heating, double glazing, home security and a garden top the list of ‘must haves’ property features, according to new research by price comparison site GoCompare.
Fast broadband and good mobile signal have been the biggest movers up the list as buyers look for homes that will work well as smart homes and allow them to have all the latest technology.
Rising energy bills mean today’s buyers are also focused on finding a home that won’t leave them with hefty bills as a good energy efficiency rating makes it into the top 10 for the first time.
“Connectivity and energy efficiency are two massive factors for anyone thinking about a move at the moment, while the number of electrical sockets is now more important than access to local amenities,” says Ben Wilson, spokesperson for GoCompare Home Insurance.
“Likewise, a broadband signal fast enough for streaming, and a reliable and clear mobile phone signal are deemed home essentials today and sellers need to be wise to these new priorities.”
At the other end of the spectrum, fewer buyers consider a conservatory, wood floors, good local schools, open plan living spaces and period features to be a high priority when choosing a home with all of them failing to make the top 20.
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Top 20 property must-haves
|
|
Feature |
Percentage surveyed who consider it a must-have |
|
1. |
Central heating |
82% |
|
2. |
Double glazing |
80% |
|
3. |
Secure doors and windows |
74% |
|
4. |
A garden |
69% |
|
5. |
A good, reliable broadband connection sufficiently strong to stream films and TV |
59% |
|
6. |
Plenty of electrical sockets |
59% |
|
7. |
Local shops and amenities |
58% |
|
8. |
A driveway or dedicated parking space |
53% |
|
9. |
A reliable, clear mobile phone signal |
53% |
|
10. |
A good energy efficiency rating |
52% |
|
11. |
At least two toilets |
52% |
|
12. |
Friendly neighbours |
51% |
|
13. |
A bathtub |
50% |
|
14. |
A shower cubicle |
49% |
|
15. |
Cavity wall insulation |
46% |
|
16. |
A living room big enough for a large, flat screen TV |
42% |
|
17. |
A garage |
41% |
|
18. |
A dining room |
40% |
|
19. |
A landline telephone |
39% |
|
20. |
A new boiler or central heating system |
37% |