Weaker Demand for Fixer-Uppers
Research suggests that many buyers’ priorities have shifted, as they no longer look for properties requiring major renovation.
A survey found that 53% of buyers would not take on a property that needed major work. Meanwhile, only 6% said they would actively look for a property that needs renovation. Some (41%) buyers were willing to consider taking on a project, provided that the asking price was reflective of the work that was required.
First-time buyers (FTBs) have traditionally been attracted to fixer-upper properties because they offer a way to buy in a preferred location at a lower price. According to Nationwide, this is because it can enable new homeowners to buy in their preferred location and shape the home to their own taste. However, the survey by LRG indicates that FTB behaviour is changing, with only 5% saying they would seek out a home that needs renovating. The typical renovation project costs £85,000 or more, with 75% of FTBs carrying out more DIY on their new home than expected. The findings suggest that buyers may still be willing to renovate but are increasingly looking for the purchase price to reflect the cost and effort involved.
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