Mar 29 2006
The Energy Saving Trust today reveals that nearly 7 out of 10 Britons believe that homes boasting energy saving features are worth paying more money for, with almost half (44%) willing to pay an additional £5,000 - £10,000 for a green home built to high environmental standards.
Therefore, homes with features such as sufficient levels of insulation, double-glazing and energy efficient boilers will be more attractive to buyers, and could possibly sell quicker.
Research shows that the 59% of home sellers focussing their attentions on quick wins such as applying a lick of paint, or adding a few scatter cushions might be missing a trick, compared to just 21% who would consider improving the energy efficiency of their homes before putting it on the market.
Old, clapped out boilers, single glazed windows and insufficient insulation would sway more than two thirds (64%) of home buyers against a purchase, compared to less than one in ten would be put off by the décor, the garden or tidiness of the property
TV presenter and property expert Naomi Cleaver says that understanding the demands of potential buyers is essential when selling your home:
"With the home being the biggest single investment most people are likely to make in a lifetime, it needs to be a haven that people can enjoy. Installing energy efficient measures such as sufficient loft insulation and double glazing can make a home warmer, more secure and cheaper to run, which can all help secure a more favourable offer."
Philip Sellwood, Chief Executive of the Energy Saving Trust says the results signify a positive shift in consumer demand and awareness of the need for increased energy efficiency.
"With our homes responsible for over a quarter of the UK's total CO2 emissions, it is essential to increase their energy efficiency. This increase in demand for environmentally friendly homes will hopefully inspire more homeowners to make important improvements, not only to make their homes more comfortable and less costly to run, but also to pass on these benefits to potential buyers."
For expert advice on how to prepare your home for sale, the Energy Saving Trust has teamed up with Naomi Cleaver to put together some online tips to make your home more attractive to buyers and what potential buyers should look for when purchasing a new home.