Energy Efficient Homes Are a Great Draw for Buyers
When solar panels were first introduced to the UK market, there was a concern that they would not only negatively impact the sales price of the home on which they were installed, but also that of the surrounding properties.
Not only have those fears proved unfounded, but they have actually been proved totally wrong. Pure Investor, specialists in UK property investment, share their advice for sellers on how to appeal to buyers looking for an energy efficient home.
Energy Efficient Homes Are a Great Draw for Buyers
Modern buyers actively approve of solar panels and, indeed, anything which increases the energy efficiency of a home, thus improving its sustainability (and lowering the purchaser’s energy bills).
With that in mind, if you’re planning on selling your home, it might be a good idea to see what steps you can take to improve energy efficiency and to make sure that this is highlighted in the sales literature. Here are some possibilities.
Solar Panels
Obviously the feasibility of installing solar panels will depend on various factors, including where you are in the UK and what kind of roof you have, but, even if you’ve investigated the possibility before, it may be worth double-checking as the technology is continually improving.
Charging Ports for Electric Vehicles
You can charge electric vehicles from a standard three-pin socket, but fast-charging ports really do slash the length of time it takes. If you are in the market for a new car, then it may be worth checking to see if you can get a free charging port with your vehicle, or at least get a decent discount on one.
If you can’t but you do want an electric car, you may be able to qualify for a government grant to install one and even if you don’t, the fact of the matter is that electric cars are looking increasingly like the way of the future, which means that charging ports are likely to start ranking alongside parking facilities in terms of desirable features in a home.
Ultra-Energy-Efficient Glass
Double glazing has been standard in UK homes for many years now, but ultra-energy-efficient glass takes this a (large) step further and can really make a significant difference to the amount of heating needed in a home, even in the coldest months.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
One way to make a big difference is to make a little bit of a difference on a regular basis. Switching to energy-efficient appliances for regular tasks such as laundry and dishwashing can actually add up to major benefits for the environment and a noticeable reduction in a home’s running costs.
If you’re planning on updating your appliances, opting for energy-efficient ones means that you can either include them as an attractive feature for a future purchaser or take them with you when you move to enhance your new home.
LED/Solar Lights
Lights aren’t really appliances but they do use electricity and switching out standard light bulbs for LEDs is a relatively affordable way to improve a home’s energy efficiency. LED lights also come in “smart” options, which can be both useful and convenient.
Switching to solar lighting, where possible, such as in the garden, not only helps to reduce electricity consumption, but also eliminates the need for wiring.