Demand for energy efficient homes on the rise

Demand for energy efficient new homes is on the rise, according to recent data from Knight Frank.

A recent buyer sentiment survey by Knight Frank reveals a shift in housing preferences, with one-fifth of respondents expressing an interest in purchasing a new home. This figure is up from the 13% recorded in the three preceding years.

Energy efficiency has become a crucial factor for homebuyers, with 60% citing it as their primary reason for choosing a new build. This trend is driven by the desire to reduce winter heating costs and mitigate the effects of increasingly frequent summer heatwaves, Knight Frank said.

The agency brand said buyers are also attracted by the opportunity to have input into off-plan purchases and the absence of a seller chain. Additionally, 25% of respondents cited future environmental regulations as a key consideration in their decision-making process, up from 20% two years ago.

The survey also found an increase in the proportion of respondents who do not want to install energy improvements themselves. This has increased from a fifth two years’ ago to nearly 30% today, pointing to the rising convenience of new homes.

Anna Ward, associate in Knight Frank’s research team said, "Energy efficient new homes are on the rise, with the number of new homes awarded top EPC A grade hitting a record high in the second quarter of this year. 

“We are now seeing an uptick in demand for these homes, with our survey showing the first notable shift in over three years. This trend has longer to run as more buyers are also taking note of future environmental regulations and planning ahead."