Property owners seeking to sell in today's challenging market could boost their asking price by up to a whopping £10,000 through a few small yet strategic green home improvements.
Leading property platforms Rightmove and Zoopla have alerted sellers that energy-efficient homes not only command higher prices but also sell more quickly than their conventional counterparts.
From solar panel installations to improved insulation, these eco-friendly upgrades are transforming from niche features into essential selling points.
Sustainability expert at Heatforce Ryan Willdig notes that sellers are "finally waking up to the idea that green homes aren't just better for the planet, but also can help you get the best selling price for your home".
Solar panel installations are a simple - although expensive - way to boost your home's value
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Solar panels are becoming a particularly lucrative investment, although initial costs can range from £5,000 to £10,000 depending on property size.
These installations can increase asking prices from 10 to 14 per cent, with returns often "greatly outweighing the outlay", according to Willdig.
Beyond fiscal attractiveness, prospective buyers are increasingly prioritising energy independence, especially after the pandemic's energy price volatility.
Battery storage systems enhance this appeal further. By capturing excess daytime solar generation for later use, these systems maximise efficiency and reduce monthly electricity bills.
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This combination can prove especially attractive to remote workers who consume more daytime electricity at home.
Meanwhile, improving a property's thermal performance through various insulation options is one of the most cost-effective efficiency upgrades available, with Willdig emphasising that buyers actively assess existing insulation throughout properties, making it a priority improvement.
Electric vehicle infrastructure has become increasingly vital, with new research revealing approximately 20 per cent of UK residents now own electric or hybrid vehicles. Installing an EV charging point, starting from around £900, can certainly appeal to this growing demographic.
"More and more people will be looking for EV charging ports so that they can charge their cars overnight," Willdig explained, adding that this relatively modest investment could accelerate sales while boosting property values.
Even little changes can significantly boost Energy Performance Certificate ratings
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Finally, even minor modifications can significantly boost Energy Performance Certificate ratings, potentially adding substantial value to properties.
Simple measures such as sealing draughts, installing thermostatic radiator valves, or switching to LED lighting can improve ratings considerably.
Willdig has observed that buyers are after more sustainable features, adding: "We're seeing more and more buyers enquiring about solar panels, heat pumps and E.P.C. ratings - it's great as it's showing that awareness is spreading among homebuyers with regard to future-proofing their home, how much money they can save someone in the long-run, and how much better these changes are for the environment."
These relatively small investments demonstrate how sustainability and property value enhancement have become inextricably linked in Britain's evolving housing market.