Q&A: What do buyers really want?
What special features in a house do you think attract a premium ?This week's expert, Ray Smith, from Currell in Islington suggests:
The 'special features' that attract a premium will vary dramatically from property to property, depending on the target market. Character is the main feature that will make a property stand out, whether it be a top end apartment or family home...
There are more specific features that stand out for different areas of the market and will help command a premium over and above similar properties, such as period features on houses and conversions or exposed brick walls, steel columns and factory windows in loft apartments.
At the top end of the market, the desirability of penthouse apartments can be increased by up-to-date technology, such as integral sound/entertainment system, cutting edge design, high specification bathrooms and kitchens. Roof terraces and secure parking are also major selling features with this type of property.
A well designed open-plan kitchen and family room are certainly desirable in a substantial family house, as is a family friendly garden. Another big selling feature can be nanny accommodation and the placement and number of bathrooms is also very important.
Future 'special features' are likely to include eco-friendly elements. With the introduction of the Home Information Pack (HIPs) in June this year, residential property is likely to be advertised with a Home Energy Assessment rating, so energy conscious design features are likely to become more attractive to buyers.
Looking outside the house, simply having a garden can increase the value of the property by up to 15%. Maintaining a neat lawn and garden makes property easier to sell and vendors need to be aware that almost two thirds of house hunters are most attracted by well tended gardens.
Further information on June introduction of HIPs is available in our Home Information Packs section.
Read about some gardens in need of loving for Love your Lawn Week.
