Zoopla says that 86 per cent of the people it asked in a survey of 2,000 would-be home movers intend to move ahead with the plans within the next 12 months.
The survey shows that a third of those asked responded that their plans had been delayed, however. Of these, 31 per cent say this is because they are expecting house prices to fall while 30 per cent are worried about the UK economy and 22 per cent have concerns over their employment status.
Zoopla also looked at younger potential buyers – and found that 35 per cent had postponed their plans. Difficulty accessing high-LTV products was the reason given for 30 per cent of those aged under 35.
Meanwhile, 42 per cent of those asked expect to work from home more often in the future, and 22 per cent of respondents say that having a home office is more of a priority than it was before – increasing to 34 per cent of those aged 35 to 49.
Zoopla chief commercial officer Andy Marshall says: “With more Brits looking to travel into the office less often, while socialising at home more, expectations of what a home can deliver look likely to be greater than ever.
“We expect many home movers to reset their work-life balance, with greater emphasis on finding a home that will accommodate these lifestyle changes.
“In addition, whilst always popular, a garden or private outdoor space, as well as proximity to parks, the countryside and coast, have assumed a new level of importance. Inevitably, home movers want to fortify themselves against the impact of any future lockdowns – should they arise.”
A larger emphasis on outdoor space is something that Rics spoke about in early June this year.
