Kitchens are no longer top priority – Rightmove reveals new property search trends

Friday 12th June 2020

Housing experts reveal how 2020 has shifted search priorities, offering advice to those looking to sell

So much has changed already this year, including property search trends. According to Rightmove almost half of renters, 49 per cent, and 39 per cent of buyers in the market claim lockdown has had an impact on what they’re looking for from future properties.

The things it has impacted most are wanting bigger gardens or at least access to one. Wanting to live in a bigger home with a better home workspace. Wanting to live closer to parks and green spaces and wanting access to a parking space or a garage.

Searches by potential buyers for homes with gardens are up 42 per cent in May, compared to May 2019. With the same search even higher for renters, up 84 per cent.

For the first time in years flats have dropped out of as the most sought after property types, as home-hunters seek bigger gardens and better workspaces.

‘Traffic has hit its highest ever level with many starting out on a new journey towards their next home and a change in lifestyle,’ observes Rightmove Housing Market Analyst Miles Shipside.

‘Which could come with a very different wish-list to the one they had a few months ago. During lockdown people have been re-evaluating what their must-haves are.’

‘Both buyers and renters are craving a home with its own outside space rather than a flat. It will be fascinating to see how the trends unfold over the course of the rest of the year.’

Source Idealhome