Sustainable Homes In High Demand: 6 Eco-Friendly Features Homebuyers Want

 

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Sustainable homes are now the talk of the town in the UK housing market, no longer just a niche interest. Did you know homes contribute to about 20% of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions? With the spotlight on how housing affects the climate, there’s an urgent call for energy-saving homes and retrofits.

How about this for surprising news? Many homebuyers are willing to pay up to 10% more for homes boasting eco-friendly features. In a survey of 1,400 homeowners, a notable 69% of them want their new homes to come with important green features like solar panels, EV charging points, and heat pumps.

Since 2020, internet searches for ‘solar panels’ on Rightmove have shot up into the top 100 most searched terms. Similarly, ‘heat pump’ climbed from over 1,000th place to the top 200.

75% of renters and 77% of homeowners are ready to pay extra for a home that’s energy efficient. Meanwhile, a low carbon footprint is a priority for 88% of renters and 85% of homeowners.

With energy prices soaring, stricter government rules, and rising climate awareness, the demand for eco-friendly homes is expected to skyrocket. But what does this mean if you're a homeowner or seller? Our team at Quealy & Co is here to explore the bright future of green living in the UK, where sustainable homes are quickly becoming the gold standard.

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Why are we seeing a rise in sustainable homes?  

Climbing energy prices

With energy bills going through the roof, many UK homeowners are on the lookout for ways to cut back. Homes that feature energy-efficient solutions like solar panels, triple glazing, and smart heating systems can save homeowners a bundle over time. For instance, installing solar panels can slash your annual electricity bill by as much as £500, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

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Attractive government policies

Did you know the UK government is rolling out stricter environmental policies to nudge the housing market towards green initiatives? Starting 2025, the Future Homes Standard will mandate all new homes to emit 75-80% less carbon than current norms. Plus, with incentives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, there’s a push to retrofit homes with energy-efficient enhancements.

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Awareness about climate change

The frequent extreme weather events, like floods and heatwaves, mean climate resilience is on many buyers' minds when shopping for homes. Features such as flood-resistant materials, enhanced insulation, and green roofs are trending.

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Better resale value

Sustainable homes aren't just about saving on energy; they’re great for your property value, too. Research from Rightmove shows that homes with top energy performance (EPC ratings A or B) not only sell faster but at higher prices. Buyers are eager to pay more for homes that promise savings down the line.

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Benefits for health and well-being

Green homes often come with non-toxic materials, improved air filtration, and natural lighting, which all contribute to healthier living. With people more tuned into indoor air quality and the perks of natural settings, sustainable homes are increasingly in fashion.

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Key features homebuyers are looking for

As demand grows, these sustainability features are in high demand in UK homes:

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1. Energy-efficient insulation:

Well-insulated homes with double or triple glazing and draught-proofing cut down on heat loss, saving on heating costs.

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2. Renewable energy sources:

Solar panels and both air-source and ground-source heat pumps are gaining ground.

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3. Smart home technology:

Gadgets like EV chargers and those from Nest or Hive help control your home's heating and lighting, reducing energy waste.

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4. Water-saving innovations:

Think rainwater harvesting systems, water-saving fixtures, and permeable driveways—all excellent for cutting down on water use.

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5. Sustainable materials:

Homes built with recycled resources, responsibly sourced timber, and eco-friendly paints are on the rise.

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6. Green spaces and biodiversity:

More buyers desire gardens with native plants, green roofs, or spots for a greenhouse or “grow your own” area.

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The future of sustainable homes in the UK

As the UK steadily pursues its net-zero goals, the demand for sustainable homes is set to keep growing. Whether you’re thinking of selling or buying, putting sustainability at the top of your list benefits both your wallet and our planet.

For sellers, green upgrades can noticeably boost a property's value while drawing in eco-conscious buyers.

For buyers, choosing a home rich in environmental credibility means reaping long-term savings and enjoying a healthier home.

As green building standards progress and sustainable living becomes the standard, one certainty remains: the future of UK property is dazzlingly green!

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Have you made improvements to your Kent home?

Perhaps you have already worked hard to make your home more energy efficient. It’s worth getting an up-to-date property valuation to see how these improvements have boosted the value of your home in Kent!

Call us on 01795 429836 or email hello@quealy.co.uk to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.

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