The appeal of energy efficient new homes
As summer temperatures have soared, so has demand for new build, energy efficient homes. Discover why more people are prioritising energy efficiency in their search for a new home.
There’s a lot to love about moving into a new build home and, often, being its first occupant. A recent sentiment survey by Knight Frank has revealed that higher energy efficiency tops the list. Having more input into designing off-plan purchases from the outset, and no seller chain are both cited as key benefits in choosing a new build home.
The insightful survey showed that a fifth of respondents were looking for a new-build home. That’s a marked increase on the 13% recorded for the previous three consecutive years.
Anna Ward, Associate in Knight Frank’s research team said, "Energy efficient new homes are on the rise, with the number of new homes awarded top EPC A grade hitting a record high in the second quarter of this year. We are now seeing an uptick in demand for these homes, with our survey showing the first notable shift in over three years. This trend has longer to run as more buyers are also taking note of future environmental regulations and planning ahead."
Year round temperature regulation
Whilst ornate coving, sash windows and attractive period features will always hold huge appeal, many buyers are placing greater importance on energy efficient homes. Having an ambient temperature year round - to keep warm in winter and beat the summer heat - is an attractive proposition.
Energy efficient homes are cost effective, saving on winter heating bills. In fact, Knight Frank Research points to an average 56% saving on annual energy costs (heating, lighting and hot water) when comparing a new build with an existing property.
A high Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating (A or B) is a good indication that the property is highly efficient, more environmentally friendly and will have lower energy bills than a home with a lower EPC rating. It can demonstrate that the property has good insulation and glazing which play a significant role in keeping the property warm in winter and cooler in summer.
Record numbers of new homes are attaining the top EPC A grade. In Q1 2024, 3,944 made the top grade which is 80% higher than the year before (according to ONS data). That’s nearly 20% more than the previous quarter.
The appeal of energy efficient new build homes
There are various energy improvements that homeowners can make to existing properties. That includes the installation of solar panels, air source heat pumps, high-performance glazing and low energy lighting.
However, our survey shows an increasing proportion of respondents (nearly 30%) who do not wish to undertake energy improvements themselves. A new home complete with these latest energy efficient installations is a convenient option.
There’s also an awareness of future environmental regulations. A quarter of survey respondents said the prospect of new regulations was a driving force in them buying a more energy efficient home. That’s a 20% increase from two years ago.
Further benefits of new build homes
The appeal of the new build goes beyond its environmental credentials. Being able to get involved in the design of an off plan purchase is a real plus point. It means you can influence and tailor your future home to suit your preferences.
The lack of a seller chain is also noted as a key benefit. Everyone’s heard stories of lengthy waits for chains to complete. Negating that risk means a smoother, easier purchase process.
Mark Evans, Head of Regional New Homes at Knight Frank, adds, "The demand for new homes is clearly there, and we have seen an increase in the number of enquiries and sales in recent weeks in certain parts of the UK, particularly the South East and Central regions. Developers are needing to include as many energy efficient features as they can for the discerning buyer, who is looking at the long term to their choice of home and are looking to take advantage of these opportunities."
Four of the best new developments with sustainable options
If you share the sentiments of our survey respondents and prioritise energy efficiency, these impressive new homes could be a perfect match for you.
Three bedroom home, Daventry
This premium collection of design-led homes come complete with a range of sustainable features and have been designed to meet Zero Carbon Ready standards. Malabar by the award-winning Spitfire Homes comprises 50 design-led homes all of which include heating and hot water courtesy of an air source heat pump, PV roof panels, electric vehicle charging point and wider cavities to allow for increased levels of insulation.
The new build homes sit on the rural edge of Daventry and have been designed to complement the local vernacular. The carefully-considered interiors flow seamlessly between the open plan kitchen and dining areas and onto the expansive living area. It’s ideal for family living and entertaining. Prices from £315,000
Four-five bedroom home, Cheltenham
The exclusive gated collection of four ‘A’ rated townhouses have been meticulously designed and finished to an exemplary standard. Springfield Mews is impressive on several levels - cutting-edge eco credentials, best-in-class specification and supreme aesthetic.
Air source heat, solar panels and underfloor heating to all floors ensure a comfortable and optimal temperature throughout. The integral carport comes complete with the convenience of an electric charging point. Its location adds to its convenience as it’s on the periphery of Cheltenham and within walking distance of the popular area of Montpelier. Prices from: £1,250,000
One-three bedroom apartments, London EC1
The Arc on City Road in East London is an incredible new development curated around light, space and energy by award-winning Bowler James Brindley. The beautiful apartments are flooded with natural light thanks to the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Arc’s developers, the award-winning Ghelamco, are market leaders in sustainable development. It’s a fully electric building with low carbon emissions (30% lower than its multi-fuel cousins). There are highly insulated walls and efficient glazing.
Cutting-edge technology ensures an efficient energy flow and minimal waste. Surplus energy from one apartment’s underfloor heating and cooling system is utilised by another. The building’s sustainability elements are truly outstanding. Prices from £825,000
Four bedroom home, Guildford
Just launched to market, Dryden Court comprises four exceptional townhouses within easy walking distance of Guildford town centre. The spacious family room benefits from French doors that allow in natural light. The kitchen/ dining area flows seamlessly to the exterior space—a private south-west-facing landscaped garden.
The properties feature high-efficiency roof-integrated solar panels, underfloor heating to all floors and EV charging points. They’re expected to achieve EPC ‘A’ rating once complete. Prices from £1,545,000.
