The growing importance of energy performance in selling houses can no longer be ignored. Industry professionals are finding that the new requirements are redefining not only how properties are valued, but also how they are bought and sold. This transformation brings with it significant challenges, as well as opportunities for those who are able to adapt.
In the past, aesthetic criteria dominated property purchasing decisions. Today, energy performance is central. Potential buyers are looking for properties that are economically viable in the long term, valuing those that guarantee significant energy savings.
This change is prompting real estate agents to adjust their sales strategy and understand the energy benefits of a property.
This evolution is not only driven by a widespread interest in ecology. It is also driven by economic concerns. High energy costs are prompting buyers to favour houses and apartments that promise greater energy efficiency.
Poorly classified properties are likely to to be less appealing, unless appropriate renovations are planned.
Recent rental and sales regulations have had a major impact on the property market. The ban on renting out G-rated properties and the requirement for an energy audit prior to sale are changing the landscape. Although some professionals see these rules as restrictive, in reality they promote a better overall quality of housing stock.
In fact, these new standards encourage the ongoing improvement of existing homes, turning perceived constraints into positive drivers for improved value. This offers homeowners the opportunity to increase the price of their property while improving the properties green credentials.
Strong demand for properties in need of renovation
As buyers focus more on energy performance, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for older properties in need of renovation. These properties represent unique opportunities for investors, who see them as a means of creating added value. Many clients now prefer to buy a property at a low price and invest in refurbishing it, so as to reap higher returns on resale or rental.
This phenomenon creates many opportunities that go beyond mere compliance: it opens doors to technological innovation, stimulates job creation in the renovation sector, and raises collective awareness of the importance of more sustainable lifestyles.