Central heating, energy efficiency and home security top the nation's list of top 20 'must-have' home features, according to new research from Gocompare.com Home Insurance.

Central heating, energy efficiency and home security top the nation's list of top 20 ‘must-have' home features, according to new research from Gocompare.com Home Insurance.


The research revealed that today's house-hunters are more likely to be sold on the idea of properties with an efficient central heating system (73%), double glazing (72%) and secure doors and windows (71%). Only 9% of those surveyed said that if they were looking to buy a house, they would consider period features to be essential.


Energy efficiency was a key theme running through the survey across all regions. As well as an effective central heating system and double glazing, the top 10 property essentials include a good energy efficiency rating (54%) and cavity wall insulation (48%).


Other findings include:


Ben Wilson, from Gocompare.com Home Insurance, said: "Our research suggests that today's potential home-buyers are putting practical concerns ahead of aesthetics by looking for properties which are cosy, energy efficient and secure, rather than full of character. With ever-increasing gas and electricity prices, fuel and financial economy are a concern for many households, so it's perhaps unsurprising that well-insulated homes and efficient central heating systems are key priorities for buyers.


"The important role technology plays in our everyday lives – from interaction on social media to online shopping – also shone through the survey, with access to a good broadband connection and mobile phone signal making it into the top 20 ‘must-have' home features. Good internet access is now seen by many as the ‘fourth utility' alongside mains gas, electricity and water."