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Buyers want agents to become eco-experts about their stock

A new survey by Leaders Romans Group shows a significant majority of buyers wanting homes to be more energy efficient - however the results do not indicate whether people are willing to pay more for them. 

According to the research, almost three quarters of respondents nationwide would like their property to be more eco-friendly.

Features such as wall insulation, renewable energy sources and double or triple glazing were found to be a major draw, with more than half of respondents saying they would specifically seek out a property with these qualities. 

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In fact, two-thirds revealed they would choose a property with eco-friendly features over one without. Notably, younger and more eco-conscious potential buyers aged 25 to 34 are the most likely to look for these features. 

There is also an increase in requests for those working in the property sector to reflect the new desires of consumers, with the survey highlighting demand for estate agents with knowledge in eco-friendly properties. 

More than half would prefer to buy or rent from an agent with expertise in this area. This was particularly true of 25 to 34-year-olds, with 63 per cent reporting this preference - highlighting, says LRG, the need for the industry to cater for those entering the market.

On motivations for seeking out eco-friendly properties, carbon footprint impact only slightly outweighs financial benefit. 

According to the survey, 60 per cent of respondents would be interested in an eco-friendly property to minimise carbon footprint, compared to 59 per cent to reap financial benefits such as higher resale value, savings on bills, and the like. 

Whatever the reason, over a third of respondents said they would pay up to 10 per cent more for a property with eco-friendly features, meaning that developers who ignore this trend could significantly lose out on financial yield.

For new build homes in particular, sustainable expectations are high, with 80 per cent of respondents expressing this belief. 

Tim Foreman - managing director of Land and New Homes at LRG - comments: “Significant change is difficult for any industry, let alone one as complex as property, but there’s a huge benefit to everyone in the sector playing their part in the fight against climate change – both ethically and financially. Homebuilders are well positioned to make a huge impact with this, and so must lead the way when it comes laying sustainable foundations.” 

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