Buyers want warm, efficient homes

Homebuyers are prioritising functionality over aesthetics, says BRANZ report 

A BRANZ report on the third annual Homestar/realestate.co.nz survey showed prospective buyers are placing a higher than expected level of importance on quality insulation and orientation for maximum sun.

The survey gives valuable insight not only into New Zealander’s preferences, but also into how they are changing over time. Sun orientation was rated as important by 91% of respondents in 2014, compared to 86% in 2013. The importance of a high level of insulation rose from 82% in 2013 to 90% 2014.

Realestate.co.nz’s national marketing manager Paul McKenzie said the increase was surprising.

“We know from the last couple of years that most Kiwis rate good sun and insulation as important – even so, a leap of 8% is pretty substantial. This shows the real-life performance of a home, rather than cosmetic features, is increasingly crucial.”

“The survey gives valuable insight not only into New Zealander’s preferences, but also into how they are changing over time

 

Kiwis increasingly understand that homes should be built to capture warmth from the sun, with good insulation and ventilation, said New Zealand Green Building Council chief executive Alex Cutler.

Those considering selling their homes believe it’s worth upgrading performance – 88% think energy-efficient features can attract a price premium. Efficient features such as LED lighting and double-glazing were important to nearly 75% of those surveyed, up from 50% last year.