A study of 2,000 property owners found more than half are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value and offers instant gratification. Many would rather splash out on a new kitchen or bathroom suite than invest in insulation or energy-efficient heating systems.
Over half said energy-efficient improvements just don’t give them the same buzz as a swanky new renovation, as such instead, they opt for flashy upgrades simply because they want something new to enjoy, with 16% confessing they just love the thrill of a fresh home feature.
The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report, which follows the energy efficiency transformation of a previously fossil-fuel reliant home.
The report, developed with Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds, reveals how the retrofit – the process of renovating a property to make it more energy efficient – of a typical 1930s detached home featuring triple glazing, solar panels and an air source heat pump cut the home’s carbon emissions, improved its comfort, and boosted the home’s EPC rating from D to B.
Phil Spencer, TV star, property expert and Move iQ founder, said: “It’s easy to get caught up in choosing statement tiles or bold paint colours, but the most valuable home improvements aren’t always the most Instagrammable.
“Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort, value and sustainability, all without spoiling the look of your home.”
Michaela Wright, head of group sustainability at Skipton Building Society added: “We understand that making energy-efficient home improvements might not be at the top of everyone’s priority list. That’s why we took on the journey ourselves – to help demystify the retrofit process through The Big Retrofit project.
“We’ve documented our experience and created a series of resources, to support others who are considering making similar improvements.”
More than a quarter of homeowners now say they know a neighbour who’s made big low carbon technology or energy efficiency related changes to their home – and 53% of these have been inspired to follow suit.
As a result, 48% have looked into getting solar panels, 24% have explored upgrading their loft insulation – and 15% would consider installing triple glazed windows.
For 38%, it was hearing their neighbours had managed to cut their energy bills that got them interested. Almost half (47%) of all homeowners now reckon making eco improvements has become a modern-day status symbol, according to the research.
Charging an electric car on the drive is seen as one of the leading signs you’ve ‘made it’ (32%) – followed by underfloor heating powered by renewables (28%) and having a heat pump (25%).
Michaela added:”As more people see their neighbours investing in greener technologies, it naturally sparks curiosity and motivation to do the same.
“There’s something powerful about seeing these changes up close – it makes the benefits feel more real and achievable. It’s a positive sign that more energy efficient choices are becoming aspirational, not just practical.