How important are sustainable solutions for prospective homebuyers?

Most of us have spent far more time at home recently. So it’s little surprise that searches for homes with gardens have doubled¹ since last year. But our new research² reveals that almost nine in 10 prospective homebuyers now want properties with sustainable products (87%)³, like solar panels, over having a garden (80%).

Half of us are now more conscious of the environment we live in (52%), and half also want to reduce our impact on the planet (50%). More than three quarters of prospective homebuyers admit to wanting to buy a property that has sustainable solutions over one that didn’t (77%).

There may be a couple of reasons for this:

• Increase value: New research⁴ has revealed that having solar panels can increase the value of homes across the country by £30,000 on average.
• Invest in your future: With the introduction of temporary stamp duty relief, over three quarters of those surveyed said they’d be willing to use these savings to invest in sustainable home products (78%).

From the roof to your flooring, there are both big and small changes you can make that can make your home sustainable:

• Easy does it: Consider renewables-backed electricity. At E.ON all our customers’ homes are provided with 100% renewables-backed electricity as standard⁵.
• Green to go: Solar panels use the sun’s energy to power your home helping you to be more sustainable while also helping the planet. With solar panels you are relying less on fossil fuels not only lessening your carbon footprint but, paired with battery storage, reducing your reliance on the grid to power your home day and night.  

• Out with the old: If your boiler is over 12 years old, it’s likely time to consider a replacement. New boilers are more energy efficient, meaning there’s less waste coming from your home – benefitting the planet and your wallet.
• Save water: Think about changing your showerhead to a low flow aerating one. These add air into the water flow and can significantly reduce the amount of water used in a shower without impacting on your enjoyment.
• Waste not: It’s important to have the right insulation to ensure you’re effectively heating your home year-round. In a typical home the biggest area of heat loss is through the walls and windows. By insulating externally or internally you’ll transform the warmth and comfort of your home while also being more sustainable.
• Light the halls: LED bulbs are available for a wide range of light fittings and they no longer give a cold harsh light. Every one of your bulbs should be replaced with an LED bulb (unless your lighting fixture says you shouldn’t) as they are more energy efficient and help you save on your energy bills… but be sure to turn off the lights when not in use.
  
  For more information visit eonenergy.com/solar-panels