Having been involved in property for more than 10 years now, enjoying what has become something of a weekend hobby-job at Epsom’s leading estate agent, I was in initially surprised to learn of a new survey which showed that ‘ample storage space’ was top priority for potential buyers, with 26% claiming that this is most important to them. I’ve registered thousands of applicants over the years and only a tiny minority have mentioned storage and it’s not listed on the specialist software estate agents use, which focuses on minimum number of bedrooms, budget and location.

The study of 1,000 UK homeowners by Furniture123.co.uk revealed that one in four wouldn’t buy a house with a lack of storage space and that 19% have previously dismissed a property due to its lack of storage. Reading further, it all started to make sense… We estate agents think we’ve matched buyers’ requirements and while they seem excited as they view the property, so often they’ll comment that there’s little space for storage or that the property is simply too small. When, however, there’s an abundance of storage space, it rapidly becomes a stand-out feature, so while criteria such as budget, bedrooms and location may be non-negotiable, lack of storage could be the deal breaker.

Cosmetic appeal such as fitted kitchen and bathrooms that suit the buyers’ tastes was the second most important aspect for 23%, while having a second toilet was the biggest priority for 14% - good news for our industry.

Mark Kelly of Furniture123.co.uk says: “What’s interesting is that a lack of storage deters buyers. Those selling need to enhance the space they have wherever possible.

“There are ways to make the most of limited storage, such as fitted wardrobes, shelving inside the boiler cupboard, furniture that offers both storage and decoration such as an ottoman, making use of alcoves by fitting a dresser, bookshelf or cabinet to make best use of the often unusable space and fitting appliances such as microwaves and fridge/freezers to improve kitchen space.”

I would add that sellers should take advantage of some of the clever bathroom storage options available now.  And in future, when viewers point out an interesting use of space for storage, I’ll know it’s not just a throwaway comment…

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Yours,

Jan Hobbs