Demand for eco-homes increases
ATTITUDES towards eco-home developments in Yorkshire are positive, according to new research.
The 'Eco-homes, economically sustainable?' survey, published by Knight Frank and EC Harris, revealed that although the Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) is voluntary at present, it is already having a positive impact on attitudes towards property development and purchase.
However, the report also identified concern among developers about both the cost levels and current availability of technology aimed at achieving the Government's zero carbon targets by 2016, especially in the context of apartment schemes.
The survey also found:
– 86% of respondents want more information on the impact of eco-measures in the home,
– 59% are willing to pay a premium for an eco-home,
– 43% consider environmentally friendly features important when considering their purchase.
Almost all (96%) respondents considered low running costs a significant factor for their property with 58% recognising the cost saving benefits of renewable energy sources as being important.
The report also shows that households who were installing energy efficient mechanism in their homes at present tend to opt for more traditional methods such as double glazing and roof insulation over more technological advances.
The report claims that once eco-homes become the norm, as required by the CSH, developers will face the challenge of how to maintain advanced levels of architecture, design and build quality in future projects.
Liam Bailey, head of residential research at Knight Frank in Leeds, said: “Over the next decade we expect to see the three strands of eco-awareness, design quality and place making, combining in terms of market placement – the key for developers is to ensure they are able to capitalise on these themes.
“However in the short-term the slow down in the housing market is causing many, especially first time buyers, to put affordability above environmental priorities.”
Mark Farmer, head of private residential at EC Harris, said: “The real challenge for the industry is how to deliver the required step change towards zero carbon by 2016 within the parameters of technical and financial viability.
“Despite the likely increase in market sentiment towards eco friendly residential product and the ability for developers to drive value, the current cost premiums for compliance are not sustainable in real terms. Innovation and supply chain diversification will be key to creating a viable platform for delivery of zero carbon homes in the future.”
