Homebuyers Now Prioritize Transport Links Over Square Footage as Post-Covid Preferences Shift
UK homebuyers are increasingly valuing transport links over property size, reflecting changing priorities in the post-pandemic landscape, according to new research from Market Financial Solutions.
The London-based lender commissioned an independent survey of 412 UK adults who have bought a property in the past year or are currently in the process. This survey mirrors one conducted in 2021, providing a comparison of shifting homebuyer preferences.
Key findings include:
- Broadband and mobile connectivity are now considered ‘important’ or ‘very important’ by 82% of homebuyers, surpassing the significance of garden or outdoor space (76%).
- Proximity to public spaces and parks (74%) and the quality of the property (74%) both share the third place in importance.
- Transport links have risen sharply, moving from 14th place in 2021 to 6th place in 2024.
- In contrast, the potential for extensions and conversions (62%) has dropped from 8th to 14th place, and square footage (72%) has fallen from 2nd to 7th place.
Paresh Raja, CEO of Market Financial Solutions, commented: “The pandemic drastically altered homebuyers’ priorities. Our research indicates these changes are not just temporary. The rising importance of transport links reflects evolving work patterns, with more people needing well-connected homes as remote work becomes less prevalent. Meanwhile, the reduced focus on square footage and extensions highlights a shift towards convenience and connectivity over expansion, marking a return to pre-Covid priorities.”
“It will be interesting to observe these trends in the coming years, especially with new government plans for housing developments. For lenders and brokers, our findings suggest a need to adapt products and services to meet the evolving needs of homebuyers.”