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According to a survey by Zoopla, the past couple of years have seen a huge increase in people’s desires to move to a new property; with reports of over 20% of people now looking to move in the next 18 months.

So, what should we expect in the property industry in 2022, and how can we prepare for what is coming up? Here I share a few tips on how to plan ahead for 2022.

Create useable spaces in a home

It is no surprise that the pandemic has led to an increase in the popularity of outdoor spaces and home-working areas. In fact, Nationwide reported that over 25% of those looking to move, are doing so because they wanted a garden and to be close to parks.

When marketing properties for sale it’s now really important to showcase your outdoor living spaces and any opportunity you have to transform areas into home offices or working spaces. Does your garden have space for a garden studio? Make sure this in mentioned in marketing to showcase your property’s full potential.

Similarly, if you have a shed or anything similar, make sure it is tidied and clear of any clutter to demonstrate the space available.

Industry trends

The ending of Stamp Duty in 2021 had many thinking there was going to be a market collapse, but this wasn’t the case. If anything, the market was better than it had been compared to the past few years. Does that mean a collapse is inevitable in 2022? Not at all! As with the ending of Stamp Duty, we may see a slowdown in property price rises, but this just means there is even more importance put onto making the best first impression with new properties added to the market. Property staging, professional photography and recruiting the very best property professionals will help to ensure properties on the market sell for the optimal price and are valued accordingly.

This will also help tackle the crowded market as it is imperative to showcase your property at its best and make first impressions count. Ensure your online marketing presents your home in the best light, that your rooms utilise space effectively, and that your entrance (front door, windows and front garden) are well-maintained and welcoming.

Sustainable living

With a focus from the UK Government on bringing green initiatives into everyday homes, it is now more important than ever to show a sustainable way of living in the property market. A complimentary staging design captured by professional photography enables you to showcase the property at its best and highlight important sustainable features. Promote lifestyle spaces that positively contribute to everyday well-being, such as incorporating biophilia into your home design and bringing nature indoors.

In 2021 I was approached to design and stage the interior of a new build detached apartment which had been on the market for year, set in a quiet close on the grounds of an existing private development in Wimbledon Village. Created with a modern, eco-friendly design the property was an ideal home for working professionals or a young family.

Following the staging transformation, the property sold instantly at the first viewing, for above the asking price. This not only demonstrates the importance of creating mindful spaces that grab buyers’ hearts and minds, but also the importance of eco-friendly design. I am pleased to share this design was awarded “Best Show Home” in our selected category at the recent 2021 Home Staging Association Awards.

Plan for the unexpected

If 2020 and 2021 has taught us anything, it is that anything can happen. Whilst it is easy to slip into old habits, it’s important to be prepared for anything and make sure that contingency plans, supplementary services and alternative ways of managing the property industry expectations and changes are ready and raring to go into the New Year ahead.

If you would like help and advice on how to get your property ready for 2022, contact our team at The Room Boutique.