Searches for homes for sale in the UK featuring air conditioning have more than doubled this summer, according to property website Rightmove. This surge comes as heatwaves elevate the importance of staying cool for homebuyers, placing it alongside factors like proximity to good schools and transport links.
During the week of the UK's fifth heatwave, which saw temperatures in parts of England nearing 38C, Rightmove observed that the heat is influencing how Britons perceive their homes. More people are now considering a property's comfort during hotter weather.
On Rightmove's site, searches for homes with air conditioning this summer rose by 104% compared to the same period last year. Consumer research published by the website indicates that 61% of individuals would consider installing air conditioning, although only 12% have already done so. Furthermore, 87% stated that a property's ability to remain cool is important when selecting their next home.
An estimated 4 million homes in the UK currently have air conditioning, a figure that has doubled in the last three years. The increase in working from home is believed to have contributed to this demand. A report from May by the UK's Climate Change Committee suggested that hotter heatwaves could lead to 92% of existing homes overheating by 2050, potentially requiring air conditioning.