Homes with balconies or gardens or ones that are located near parks are set to become more in-demand over the next couple of years, a survey of property professionals has found.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) asked professionals for their views, based on speaking to buyers, about potential shifts in how desirable certain types of property will be in the next couple of years, in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
More than 80 per cent of those surveyed across the UK believe there will be an increased desire for properties with gardens or balconies.
Nearly three-quarters predict an increase in demand for homes near green spaces, such as parks, and just over two-thirds think properties with more private space and fewer communal areas will be more desirable.
At the other end of the spectrum, 78 per cent think there will be a fall in the appeal of tower blocks and 58 per cent believe properties in urban areas which are very built up will be less appealing.
The majority expect no change in the desirability of homes near transport hubs, such as train stations and bus stops.
Simon Rubinsohn, Rics chief economist, said: "There are already signs that those looking to buy a house are responding to the conditions created by the pandemic by seeking out properties with gardens or balconies and nearer green space.
"These and other similar features are likely to increasingly command a premium over higher density urban locations according to respondents to the survey."
Housing market restrictions remain in place in Scotland, so it will be interesting to see how homebuyers react to property buying post-lockdown.
