A new study has revealed that central heating and double glazing top the list of must-have features that will help you sell your home.
Most homebuyers consider warmth and energy efficiency as property must-haves with central heating (79%), double glazing (74%), cavity wall insulation (47%) and a good energy rating (50%) making it into the top 20.
However, only 16% thought an open fireplace or wood burner were a home essential and just 7% favoured period features.
The research from Gocompare.com Mortgages which polled 2,000 people found that homebuyers also rank a reliable broadband connection and mobile phone signal over highly-rated local schools and properties with period features – which both failed to make the top 20.
Local shops and amenities (55%) and friendly neighbours (54%) were highly valued, as was a good TV signal (49%).
Only 15% of those surveyed said access to good local schools was an essential factor in buying a new home.
Bathrooms also ranked highly on the list of home essentials, with buyers attracted to homes with a bath tub (57%), a separate shower cubicle (47%), at least two toilets (45%), or an ensuite bathroom (34%).
Gocompare.com’s mortgages spokesperson, Matt Sanders, said: “From our research it’s clear that today’s potential homebuyers are putting practical concerns ahead of aesthetics. They are looking for warm, cosy properties, which are energy efficient and well connected to modern amenities rather than ones that are full of character. For many buyers, the on-going costs of running a home – paying the mortgage, utility bills and council tax – are a real concern. It’s perhaps unsurprising then that well-insulated homes and efficient central heating systems are key priorities.
“Bathrooms also received a lot of attention in the survey, with buyers looking for homes with multiple facilities. But plumbing problems can be costly to fix and poor water pressure can be a sign of potential problems, so when viewing potential properties buyers should test the plumbing by flushing toilets, running taps and checking under sinks and around toilets for any leaks.
“The survey also highlights the important role technology and in-home entertainment plays in our day-to-day lives, from streaming live TV and films to our reliance on mobile phones. For many people, access to both a strong internet connection and a reliable mobile phone service have become modern home essentials.”
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