Opinions are varied when it comes to what the biggest selling point of a new home is – for some, it will be a large garden, a fabulous living space or secluded location, for others it will be proximity to town or work – but now new research has revealed the one most likely to appeal to potential buyers – and it turns out that the kitchen really is the heart of the home…
Halifax Estate Agents has found that a new, modern fitted kitchen is the home improvement that is most likely to appeal to potential new buyers.
More than a quarter of those questioned in the survey said that a fantastic, contemporary kitchen would entice them to buy a property. Clearly I don’t follow this mindset – my new purchase has a 1970’s melamine galley kitchen – but other priorities were more important to me – like a brilliant location, huge living space and private garden.
Surprisingly, fuel efficiency and energy saving features were next on the ‘sought after’ list, attracting more potential buyers than an extension or extra room. Central heating improvements and new windows or double glazing installations were also high on the list.
Ringing in the changes
The kitchen was also voted the room that the most homeowners would like to change, along with the bathroom. One fifth of people said that they would love to modernize these two rooms. Women and men couldn’t agree on which one to do first though – women saw the kitchen as far more important to revamp whereas men picked the bathroom.
The master bedroom and sitting room were ranked in third place.
Inside out
The all-important kerb appeal was still ranking high. Half of all respondents said that the exterior of the house was top of their list when it came to first impressions, followed by the size of rooms in a house, availability of gardens and that old chestnut – the kitchen.
Gordon Edwards, Managing Director of Halifax Estate Agents said, “Our research shows that most people are influenced by the kitchen when buying a house.
“However, you don’t need to spend thousands on these rooms when trying to sell. Simple measures like decluttering and keeping a room clean and tidy will make your home more attractive to potential buyers,” he added.
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-ENDS-
Notes to editors:
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