_The benefits of downsizing your home to a new build property

Rising energy prices and environmental concerns are the top of many property buyer's minds at the moment. A survey by Knight Frank published in July found that 8 in 10 people said the energy efficiency of their next home is more important to them than it was a year ago. A third (33%) of people said rising energy costs were the factor most likely to influence their decision to buy an energy efficient home. 

But how do the benefits stack up? A report from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) titled Greener, Cleaner, Cheaper revealed owners of houses and flats save on average £435 a year on their bills (£555 for houses alone), and the average new build home emits 2.38 tonnes less of carbon each year.

The report also found that despite new build homes being, on average, 7.4% larger than older properties, new homebuyers are still making valuable savings every month. This is down to the new technologies, materials and ever-evolving regulations that ensure new builds are as energy efficient as possible.

The energy efficiency of a home is measured via an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). D is the median efficiency rating in England and Wales for existing houses, while it is B for new build houses, according to the ONS.

Expect that rating to only improve over the next few years: the UK’s largest housebuilders have jointly agreed to deliver a plan to meet the government’s climate change targets via the Future Homes Task Force. This should see the first zero carbon homes being built by 2025.

New homes ideal for downsizing

For those considering downsizing, Knight Frank has a selection of excellent properties available on 2 new developments. The first, The Cornerways, is a collection of 4 homes in East Molesey, a pretty town in a tranquil riverside location in Elmbridge, Surrey. 

The development comprises 4 homes ranging from 2-3 bedrooms, priced between £675,000 - £725,000, in a wide corner plot. Each has a clean and contemporary design with a focus on functionality, simplicity and comfort, plus a charming rear garden with a decking area ideal for al fresco entertaining.

Among its eco-friendly features are electric vehicle charging points on off-road parking bays, LED lighting, dual-flush WCs, efficient gas boilers, induction hobs and high-level thermal insulation.

East Molesey itself is perfectly suited to families and those looking to settle in a peaceful spot that is well-served with amenities. There are several top-rated schools in the area as well as a thriving high street and weekly farmers markets.

It’s also on the doorstep of historic Hampton Court Palace, 1.6 miles from The Cornerways, while the leafy banks of the Thames, Bushy Park and Richmond Park are all within easy reach. 

Head 40 minutes west to the town of Binfield, Berkshire and you’ll find Tilehurst Green. Available in the development are one 3 bedroom and one 4 bedroom home that not only sit in one of the area’s top residential addresses Tilehurst Lane, but offer a practical and sustainable solution for modern living. 

The properties have been built on an unused paddock and have been developed with a view to protecting and enhancing the natural environment. The site is surrounded by TPO-protected mature trees even has a wildlife pond to encourage biodiversity.

Fittingly, the properties incorporate bifold doors to create seamless indoor/outdoor living, complimented by the bright and modern interiors, including a choice of Shaker or contemporary Scandinavian style kitchen. 

A number of green innovations keep residents’ carbon footprints to a minimum, including air source heat pumps, energy efficient underfloor heating, low energy appliances, and provisions for electric car charging points. Prices start at £475,000 for a 2 bedroom home, up to £945,000 for a 4 bedroom house.