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UK property market update: Interest rate rises and sustainable buildings- Are there trends to be aware of? Syntegra Managing Director Alan King reports.

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Home » UK property market update: Interest rate rises and sustainable buildings- Are there trends to be aware of? Syntegra Managing Director Alan King reports.

The UK property market is experiencing a notable shift as interest rates continue to rise, coinciding with an increasing focus on sustainable buildings, Passivhaus standards, and the integration of Greentech solutions. This update aims to shed light on these interconnected developments and the implications they hold for property investors, developers, and homeowners still reeling from the challenges posed by the COVID pandemic.

Interest Rate Rises:

In response to unsettled economic conditions, the Bank of England has initiated a steady increase in interest rates. These rises, while aimed at managing inflation and maintaining economic stability, have implications for the property market. As mortgages and borrowing costs continue to rise, there is a potential impact on affordability and lending practices. Investors and homeowners should closely monitor these changes and consider their potential effects on property valuations and mortgage rates. Notably a number of lenders are now offering preferential rates for properties with higher Energy Performance Certificate(EPC) ratings and in some instances some lenders will not finance properties that fail to meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards(MEES). And with record high energy bills due to the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, any initiative which helps cap costs for residential and commercial customers is to be welcomed.

Passivhaus and Sustainable Buildings:

Simultaneously, in the onslaught of the global energy crisis, there is a growing emphasis on environmentally conscious design and construction techniques, with Passivhaus principles gaining prominence and application across a wider spectrum of sectors. Passivhaus refers to a rigorous standard for energy efficiency in buildings, focusing on minimal energy consumption and high levels of comfort. Developers and homeowners are increasingly integrating these principles into property designs to reduce energy usage, enhance indoor air quality, and lower carbon emissions. The adoption of Passivhaus standards aligns with the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and signifies a progressive approach to sustainable living. Scotland as an example will implement in 2024 that all new build residential dwellings are to be built to Passivhaus standards.

But such opportunities for sustainable solutions and growth are also hampered by challenges within the construction industry which itself faces chronic labour shortages. To put figures into context, the latest stats from the Migration Advisory Committee show vacancies for the period November 2022-January 2023 were 65% higher than the immediate pre-pandemic period January-March 2020

The acute labour shortage has been fuelled in part by the Brexit exodus and also an ageing workforce, challenges which will not be reversed any time soon,  it should be noted.

Greentech Solutions:

In the pursuit of a sustainable future, Greentech solutions are gaining traction across the property sector. From renewable energy systems to energy-efficient appliances and smart building technologies, integrating Greentech offers benefits such as reduced energy consumption, improved resource management, and enhanced property value. Investors and developers who embrace Greentech solutions are not only meeting environmental expectations but also positioning themselves for long-term cost savings and market competitiveness.

Implications and Opportunities:

As interest rates rise, property investors and homeowners should carefully assess the potential financial implications as inflation, taxes and red tape mount for hardworking builders in what is probably one of the most regulated industries in the UK.

It is crucial to evaluate affordability, loan terms, and budgetary considerations in light of changing borrowing costs. Additionally, the upward trend in sustainable building practices and the integration of Greentech offer significant opportunities. Investing in energy-efficient properties, the decarbonisation retrofitting existing buildings, or adopting Greentech solutions in developments can enhance both environmental sustainability and long-term profitability.

But all this is set against the frustrations of short term thinking of the government around its housing policies coupled with the political flip flopping of the changing housing minister which has become an industry joke. Stability and certainty are much in demand – by all quarters, it has to be said.

As it is, each of these factors brings further uncertainty to an already lengthy process involving significant upfront investment.

Conclusion:

The intertwining dynamics of interest rate rises, Passivhaus and sustainable buildings, and Greentech solutions create both challenges and opportunities within the UK property market. Navigating this landscape requires a strategic approach, emphasising financial prudence alongside sustainable practices. Evaluating the impact of interest rate changes and taking advantage of Greentech innovations can yield benefits for investors, developers, and homeowners seeking to align their properties with the demands of a more sustainable future.

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