Samsung has shared findings from a research survey on public interest in smart homes in the UK
Samsung is a leading collaborator in the building industry, especially in the field of smart homes.
The results of the survey could provide important guidance to construction stakeholders on how to best meet the purchasing demands of the modern consumer.
Buyers are willing to pay more for smart homes
The survey studied 1,000 adults who plan on moving homes (either buying or renting) within the next five years.
The researchers also analysed Google search trends from March 2022 to March 2023, revealing six important findings:
- Consumers want smart technology in their homes and are willing to pay a higher price for it – around 6.5% more than the average house price in the UK
- Energy efficiency is a priority for customers – 71% consider it an important factor when choosing a smart home
- Buyers are attracted to new build developments that are optimised with smart technology – one-third of consumers would prefer a property pre-equipped with smart tech
- Nearly 40% of Generation Z buyers express a preference for their next property to be a smart home
- Smart Energy devices are the most popular home-related Google search category, surpassing lifestyle, home, and security searches
- Compatibility with existing devices is crucial – 81% of respondents stated that it is important for their smart technology to work seamlessly with their current devices
The study also revealed 35% of participants would be “much more likely” to choose a home if it was already equipped with smart tech. Additionally, over one-third of respondents said they would move into a home without smart tech but would retrofit it later.
One out of ten participants stated that they would only consider moving into a house that already has smart technology installed.
Energy efficiency and cost are priorities for consumers
88% of respondents who have plans to buy or rent a property within the next five years are open to considering new build properties. Among those interested in new builds, almost half are attracted to these homes because of their expected energy efficiency.
The increased demand for smart homes is reflected in homebuyers’ willingness to pay more for fully equipped homes. On average, buyers are prepared to spend 6.5% more, which amounts to over £18,000 added to the average house price of £285,000. The majority of respondents identified a smart meter or a smart TV as a priority for their new home.
The crises surrounding the cost of living and the environment have been reflected in consumer preferences. Energy-efficient technology is in high demand, with 29% expressing interest in having air-source heat pumps in their homes.
Air-source heat pumps ranked among the top three searches for smart home products, following a smart meter and preceding a heat pump tumble dryer.
“These results have shown that there is a real opportunity for the construction industry to answer the technology requirements of the modern consumer, to build homes that are future fit, to give buyers smarter, more efficient and better-connected properties that stand the test of time,” said Mark Seaman, head of new business development at Samsung UK.
“We’re helping shape the homes of the future – creating smarter spaces that are powered by technology and have the potential to benefit everyone,” he concluded.
