Finding a home that supports your lifestyle is essential to your well-being. You may need a commuter-friendly location to catch the train into the office five days a week, or an EV charging station at home to help you drop off and pick up the kids from school.
There are plenty of options to meet your requirements, whether you work remotely from home or are looking for a home gym, which we’ll explore below.
Commuter-Friendly Locations: Balancing Work and Home Life
The daily commute is still a reality for millions of Britons, but it doesn’t have to be a burden. Living in a well-connected area can make the difference between maintaining a healthy work-life balance and feeling burned out from difficult commutes.
When deciding on an area, look for locations with rail and road links that allow you to work in the city while enjoying a quieter, more spacious lifestyle at home. There are dozens of commuter towns to choose from within an hour’s travel of major employment hubs in London and Manchester.
Sustainable Living: Eco-Friendly Homes for the Modern Buyer
The changing climate has brought sustainable homes to the forefront of the minds of many prospective homebuyers. New developments are prioritising energy efficiency and responsibly sourced materials to attract buyers and meet new government standards.
New homes often utilise low-carbon heating systems and renewable energy technologies, including solar panels, to meet energy efficiency requirements. Developers are building houses with greater insulation thickness in the walls, roofs, and floors than many Victorian and post-war properties, which drives down energy costs and can lead to real long-term savings.
Smart Home Features: Embracing Technology for Everyday Convenience
Smart devices are a central feature of new houses, allowing homebuyers to turn on the heating remotely from their homes to ensure it’s warm by the time they return from work, or check the security cameras while on holiday. Smart doorbells are another essential security feature for many, allowing them to avoid cold callers and let the postman know they’re coming to the door.
Lighting can instantly change a room’s atmosphere, which is especially important if you plan to use it for different purposes. Smart light bulbs can be helpful for home offices, providing bright, functional lighting during your Teams calls and a more relaxing glow when it’s time to wind down after work.
Flexible Living Spaces: Adapting Homes to Changing Needs
Adaptability is a hallmark of modern home design. Open-plan layouts and spare bedrooms offer flexibility for changing priorities, such as setting up a weights room or accommodating family for a few days.
The ability to repurpose a room without major renovation can make your life significantly easier. Seemingly little things, like a desk nook tucked under the stairs, can save you the time and money of hiring builders or searching for new furniture.
