WoW! Home: The impact of BERs on your property’s price
First introduced in 2013, Majella Galvin says BER ratings are now a key factor influencing property values in Ireland.
A Building Energy Rating (BER) measures a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A to G, with A-rated homes being the most efficient.
First introduced in 2013, BER ratings are now a key factor influencing property values in Ireland.
For buyers, a high BER means lower bills and a more sustainable home, while for sellers, improving the BER rating can significantly boost property prices.
If you’re looking to sell, capitalising on the energy-efficiency trend could mean a higher return on your investment.
Gone are the days when buyers ignored BER ratings. Today, BER details are among the first things buyers ask for when viewing a property. Not only do they want to know the BER rating, but they also request the report to see recommendations for improving energy efficiency. This shift reflects the undeniable benefits of energy-efficient homes.
Buyers now recognise the long-term advantages of energy-efficient homes with A or B BER ratings. These properties are cost-effective to run and sustainable, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and budget-minded households alike. The availability of green mortgage rates for energy-efficient homes has further driven demand, making them an attractive investment for today’s market.
Research by Geowox highlights the substantial price difference between energy-efficient homes (class A-B) and non-efficient homes (class C-G).
On average, energy-efficient homes achieve a premium of €90,000 compared to less efficient homes. Additionally, these properties have experienced remarkable year-over-year price growth, underscoring their increasing appeal and value in the current market.
If you’re planning to sell, focusing on energy efficiency can be a smart strategy. Energy-efficient homes are highly attractive to buyers due to their superior comfort, cost savings, and potential for long-term value appreciation.
Consider making energy-efficient improvements such as installing insulation, upgrading heating and cooling systems, or adding renewable energy sources. These upgrades reduce energy bills and enhance your property’s appeal, leading to a potentially higher selling price.
Before selling, explore available grants to make BER upgrades more affordable. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers various grant schemes for improvements like insulation and heating upgrades.
Retain all documentation related to these improvements, including certificates, receipts, invoices, or specification documents, to showcase your property’s energy efficiency to potential buyers.
If you’re on a budget, simple measures like draught-proofing, lighting upgrades, hot water cylinder insulation, and installing a hot water thermostat can significantly improve your BER rating and appeal to potential buyers.
Energy-efficient homes have emerged as a driving force in today’s property market, thanks to increased awareness and demand for sustainable living. By promoting energy efficiency and focusing on BER ratings in your listed properties, you can attract discerning buyers and achieve premium prices. Embrace the green revolution and position your property as a top choice for eco-conscious buyers seeking both economic and environmental benefits.
As Ireland’s property market increasingly values energy efficiency, a high BER can offer substantial benefits for both sellers and buyers.
For sellers, investing in energy-efficient upgrades can lead to a premium selling price and make your property stand out to eco-conscious buyers.
For buyers, a high-BER property means long-term savings and a sustainable lifestyle. Whether you’re buying or selling, embracing energy efficiency can be a win-win. With the right improvements, you can enhance your property’s appeal, contribute to a greener environment, and achieve better financial returns.
Majella Galvin is an Estate Agent, Chartered Surveyor and RICS Registered Valuer at DNG Galvin Auctioneers, Bandon. She has been working in the property sector for more than a decade and has built up a wealth of knowledge and experience of the property market throughout the years. Majella holds a BSc in Real Estate & Valuations from the University College of Estate Management, Reading. She is member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
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