Have Your Priorities Changed?

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, research has shown that our priorities for what we want out of our living spaces has changed.

Indoor space, home offices, gardens and balconies have overtaken the most common features on buyer’s property wish-lists including the number of bedrooms and proximity to public transport.

Houses are especially in demand from those who are working from home for the foreseeable future – using an extra bedroom as a study. In addition, home buyers are looking for more outside space by way of a garden, roof terrace or balcony – as well as being in close proximity to  local parks and cycle routes.

This is major shift in buyer behaviour as previously features such as external appearance, kitchen size and number of bedrooms were the priority for those looking for a new home.

This year’s pandemic has been unprecedented. As a result of being confided to our homes for much of the year, people have realised the importance of their inside living space space as they look towards spending more time at home either working or socialising when permitted. In addition, people want to be prepared should we face a similar situation in the future as we did in March with Tier 4 restrictions in place.

Life in 2020 has become more home-based with people working, eating, exercising and socialising from the comfort of their own home. With a new emphasis on cycling to work and avoiding crowded public transport routes, access to cycle lanes is also now more important to many buyers.

Research from Deloitte found that 60% of people who don’t normally work from home will be doing so more often once the lockdown has been lifted and according to the Bank of England Chief Economist, 50% of all office based staff will be working from home full or part time, compared to 5% before the pandemic.

If you are looking for a property with space, light, access to communal areas or with a balcony or garden, take a look at our brand new properties for sale in Glasgow, Pollokshaws, Edinburgh and Perth all at affordable prices, in regenerated communities and close to city hubs. Help to Buy and First Home Fund available (Ts and Cs apply).

Our new sales cabin at Pollokshaws Living is now open – find out more.