Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by PropertyWire. Read the original article for full details.

South-Facing Gardens Maintain £20,000 Premium Despite Heatwaves

South-facing gardens continue to command a price premium of approximately £20,000, or 7%, according to research from estate agent Yopa. This is despite homeowners increasingly avoiding outdoor spaces during recent heatwaves.

The research found that 82% of homeowners still prefer a south-facing garden, with 28% willing to pay a premium for this feature. The enduring appeal is attributed to properties that receive more hours of sunshine throughout the day.

However, the study also revealed that 18% of homeowners believe that more frequent heatwaves will reduce both the value and desirability of south-facing gardens over the next decade. This suggests that while traditional preferences remain strong, climate considerations are beginning to influence buyer attitudes.

Verona Frankish, Chief Executive Officer at Yopa, commented that south-facing gardens have long been sought-after, but many homeowners have avoided their gardens during extreme temperatures this year. Frankish noted that while south-facing gardens remain popular, a changing climate and more frequent heatwaves could start to diminish their appeal.

The data points to a potential shift in property valuations as climate factors become more prominent in buyer considerations. The findings come as new build housing listings fall to their lowest level since 2017, indicating broader changes in the property market. The research highlights a tension between traditional property features that have historically commanded premiums and evolving environmental conditions. As affordability concerns continue to affect buyers, the premium attached to garden orientation may face further scrutiny in the coming years.