In recent years, the housing market has experienced significant shifts influenced by remote working trends. But as more companies push for a full-time return to the office, many are wondering: How will this impact the future of the housing market?
A Pandemic-Era Shift
Five years ago, the onset of the pandemic triggered a dramatic change in buyer behaviour. With large numbers of people suddenly required to work from home, the demand for bigger homes with office space and gardens soared. This “race for space” led to increased interest in detached homes and properties in more rural or suburban areas, away from city centres.
At the time, many predicted this would permanently reshape the UK housing market. But now, with a noticeable shift in workplace expectations, that assumption is being reconsidered.
The Push to Return to the Office
Major employers, including Amazon, Barclays and JP Morgan, have made headlines by calling their employees back to the office five days a week. In addition, research by Savills shows that the uptake of commercial property in the UK’s six major regional office markets is now at its highest since 2019. This suggests a renewed corporate focus on in-office working.
A More Nuanced Reality
Despite the return-to-office push, the situation remains complex. A Forbes study recently found that 13% of workers still work from home full-time, and a further 27% operate on a hybrid working model.
Recruitment firm Hays has cautioned that companies enforcing strict in-office policies may risk losing top talent. High commuting costs and concerns about work-life balance mean many employees are reluctant to give up the flexibility that remote or hybrid working provides.
Changing Housing Priorities
Recent data reveals subtle yet important changes in homebuyers’ priorities. According to Market Financial Solutions, in 2019, square footage topped the list of buyer concerns, with 90% rating it as important or very important. By 2024, it had dropped to seventh place, cited by 72% of respondents.
However, certain features remain consistently valued. The desire for outdoor space, such as a garden, remains a top priority. Similarly, strong broadband connectivity, off-street parking, and the overall quality and finish of the property continue to rank highly among buyers.
These insights suggest that, while there may be a shift in preferences, some fundamentals remain key to property appeal across the UK housing market.
What This Means for Sellers
Unlike the sudden changes brought by the pandemic, most trends in the housing market evolve gradually. For sellers, the most important step is understanding their property’s unique selling points and ensuring these are presented effectively.
Whether your home has great garden space, a high-spec interior, or excellent commuter links, these are all features that could resonate with today’s buyers, particularly those navigating new work arrangements.
Discussing your options with a knowledgeable local estate agent can help you position your property correctly within the market. They can advise on targeting specific buyer demographics, from remote workers to city commuters, and tailor your property marketing strategy accordingly.
Thinking of Selling?
If you’re considering entering the housing market, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to book a free property valuation and receive expert guidance on how to make your home stand out.
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