A study from mortgage provider ING Direct reveals the non-essential aspects of a property that encourage a buyer to sign on the dotted line. While home sale “deal sealers” revealed that weekly bin collections were a key property “extra”, a strong mobile 3G signal and solar panels were also cited among the most popular added extras homebuyers look for when buying a home in the UK.
The results of the study are in stark contrast with in demand features of previous decades, such as double-glazing (1980s) and dining-room hatches (1960s).
“In today’s housing market you often have to compete against your neighbours to make that sale. Price is obviously king but knowing and promoting ‘deal sealers’ can give you that vital competitive edge,” says ING Direct CEO, Richard Doe.
One of the most crucial ‘deal-sealers’ has been named as a weekly bin collection – which has become desirable since most councils moved to bi-weekly collections to encourage recycling.
With connectivity essential to modern living, a strong mobile internet signal also makes the list. Buyers rate consistent 3G access in every room as the bare minimum.
Solar panels are also a significant bonus for home-buyers seeking sustainability and cheaper energy costs. More than 360,000 homes in the UK now use solar power, over four times the number compared to this time last year.
And when it comes to the interior, the walk-in wardrobes popularised in Sex and the City have become a highly desirable feature for a home.
Other non-essential aspects of a property that encourage a buyer to sign on the dotted line include greenhouses, an outdoor power supply and kitchen pantries.
The remaining ‘deal clinchers’ include large luxury bathtubs, garden ponds and satellite TV connections.
Other noteworthy features that just failed to make the top 10 include access to the three ‘key’ takeaways (Chinese, Indian, Fish & Chip Shop) within the neighbourhood (14%) and a church in the vicinity (11%).
Commenting on the findings of the report, Ged Ennis, Operations Director at The Low Carbon Energy Company, says: “We welcome the findings of the survey conducted by ING Direct and we share their view that the surge in the popularity of solar energy is because the British public are increasingly becoming concerned with sustainability and cheaper energy costs. However, we would urge anyone considering a domestic installation to thoroughly research the market and use only experienced and reputable installers .There are alternative options in terms of finance and also you need to ensure that of all the sustainable energy options available, solar is going to be best for you. There may be other ways you can achieve sustainable energy efficiency and a reputable supplier and installer will explore this with you.”
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