A recent study suggests that a significant number of homebuyers in the UK spend less than 20 minutes viewing a property before deciding to make an offer. Surprisingly, viewers seem to pay more attention to artwork and furniture rather than structural features when considering a potential home purchase.
According to the research, the average time spent looking around a property before making a decision is approximately 49 minutes. Given the current average UK property price of £291,268, this equates to just under £6,000 per minute of viewing time. The survey of 2,000 people revealed that 28% of buyers visited a property only once before making an offer, with an average of 2.1 viewings per person.
Interestingly, impermanent, cosmetic features seem to attract as much, if not more, attention than essential home elements. A quarter of respondents admitted to looking at family photos in the property, while 24% checked out the home tech. Additionally, 37% admired the furniture, and 14% even peeked into drawers and cabinets. Some went as far as testing the comfort of the owner’s bed and sofa.
Further analysis conducted by Zoopla using eye-tracking glasses revealed that viewers were more interested in decorative items like mirrors, plants, and pictures rather than structural aspects like flooring and walls. Items such as paintings in the dining room and bedrooms, as well as personal possessions, received more attention than practical features.
In terms of property inspections, the survey found that only half of prospective buyers checked the condition of the boiler, while even fewer examined the water pressure, wifi strength, attic, and cellar. Surprisingly, a significant percentage of buyers did not check for damp (38%) or condensation (58%), which can lead to serious issues in the future.
Daniel Copley, a consumer expert at Zoopla, emphasized the importance of thorough inspections before purchasing a home. He highlighted the need for buyers to examine all elements of a property to avoid potential issues and expenses down the line.
Overall, the study’s findings shed light on the priorities and behaviors of homebuyers in the UK, emphasizing the significance of considering both cosmetic and structural features when evaluating a potential property. By being well-informed and attentive during the viewing process, buyers can make more informed decisions and avoid costly surprises in the future.
