Green is key for future homeowners

Energy efficient homes could be a vital driver to keeping the property market moving, with "carbon appeal" set to replace "kerb appeal" when it comes to swaying buyers. New research reveals that half of UK homeowners believe homes with greener features are easier to sell in the current market and 53% of all householders say they would be willing to pay extra for them.

However, the research from the Energy Saving Trust, reveals that estate agents could be under-selling the value of greener homes through a lack of information. Despite the fact that householders are willing to pay on average £3,350 more for a "green" home, almost half feel that estate agents don't put enough value on a home's green features and 56% feel that estate agents don't know enough about energy efficiency performance. There is also a clear appetite for clearer information, as two-thirds of householders would like more guidance from estate agents on the likely running costs of a home.

The research also indicates that failing to pay enough attention to a home's "carbon appeal" could make it harder to sell, as over three-quarters of those surveyed agree that having 'poor' energy rating on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), could lead to buyers haggling down the price of a home on the market. Furthermore, two-thirds agreed that in light of the current economic climate, home-buyers are more likely to consider the EPC to ensure a home has lower-running costs.

Jon McGowan, of the Energy Saving Trust comments: "It is encouraging to see the extent of which green measures have become an central factor when buying and selling houses. In the current economic climate, it makes sense to ensure that the running costs of the home you are living in, or buying, are as low as possible, as well as helping to cut down on your carbon dioxide emissions. Ensuring that a home is as energy efficient as possible, is a great way to help make sure that you keep bills down over the longer-term."

For more information visit Energysavingtrust.org.uk and Naea.co.uk.