House buyers start to focus on ‘green factor’

Energy efficiency and environmental standards are becoming an important factor for buyers of new-built homes, a survey for New Homes Marketing Board has found. The ‘green factor’ is now one of the top three criteria for people buying a new house, overtaking traditional benefits such as location and value for money. Top of the list is the provision of a garden or outside space at 51 per cent, followed by a garage or private off-street parking at 47 per cent.