Rightmove : Top selling points for London buyers in 2017

Few could have predicted the events that would come to influence the UK property industry this year, but one thing that we can definitely say is that life in the London property market goes on. Market activity in January alone demonstrates the enduring appeal of owning a home in one of the world's most in-demand cities, but understanding what buyers now want in today's market requires a fresh pair of eyes. Nick Goble, four times Winkworth franchisee director, predicts the key property differentiators that are set to drive sales, and satisfaction, in 2017.

Urban USPs

London's global appeal is reflected in its cosmopolitan culture and high growth figures year-on-year. Despite the uncertainties ahead, London tops the global rankings as the best city in the world to buy property, with property pull factors that you can't find anywhere else.

London neighbourhoods are characterised by their own sets of distinct USPs: buyers are enticed by traditional markets in Brixton, Kensington and Chelsea wouldn't be the same without white stucco, Pimlico is famed for its independent shops, and Clapham Common provides a much-needed respite amidst the urban sprawl.

Buyers can't get enough of unusual properties, and at Winkworth we've had a fair few. Cities often lose out to the country and Home Counties because urban properties can't provide the space. If you've got it, in the form of a basement, attic, nearby parkland, a garden, terrace, garage, or off road parking, flaunt it. These valuable extra bits of land provide the breathing room, and potential money on the side, that city buyers crave.

Less risk, more return

Buying a high-value London property in itself has huge appeal around world. While this is still true, sellers must now do a lot more to promote their properties and local areas to seal a deal for the best price. Interest rates remain attractively low, the mortgage market is very strong, and the completion of London developments has increased housing stock in the city. These timely factors set the stage for property activity and demand this year.

Untapped low price, high growth London areas will take centre stage, as will smaller properties that will appeal to young professionals and downsizers. Good deals are to be had, and the spring surge is ahead; now is the time to market your property as a safe, financially sustainable option.

Leading growth factors

24-hour London may be a fast-changing capital renowned for its entrepreneurship and innovation, but its house prices follow a set of traditional growth factors which seldom change: employment rates, local amenities, a Waitrose on the corner… But the single most-important factor on the value of a home is transport-led regeneration.

Over the years, key transport announcements and upgrades have swelled net returns in the capital. The effects of key upgrades - most notably Crossrail, Crossrail 2, and the Northern Line - on property prices in the likes of Battersea, Clapham and Kennington dominated industry predictions in 2016, and they're still the same today.

Infrastructure improvements are often catalysts for substantial regeneration, as in the case of Victoria and Westminster, so properties in these areas can be easily marketed as long-term investment assets, whatever the conditions in the wider market.

'Wellness'

Wellness is hard to define on paper, but it's not that elusive to create in one's home. 'Wellness' may be described as a buzzword, but it can have a big impact on the saleability of a property. Buyers will be seeking out houses with its own quirks, and in such a competitive market, it pays to keep an eye on the trends.

Wellness is currently being explored to improve new builds as people are more conscious of living in an emotionally pleasing place than ever before. On a finer level, simple general touches can create a harmonious balance: whole-home lighting design, calming colour palettes, designated quiet spaces, the inclusion or access to fitness facilities, and bringing the outdoors in.

…with the latest mod-cons

In the world of high-end property, nothing says 'better living' like a connected, automated home. Home automation systems, from home cinema systems and audio distribution to intelligent lighting design, smarter home tech systems are the next set of property investment must-haves to add value to your home.

In 2016, around 80 million smart devices were installed around the world - up 54% since 2015. As the next generation of digital-era buyers come of age in the property market, it's up to current homeowners and the property industry as a whole to provide solutions that meet the lifestyles of these young yet sophisticated buyers.

Winkworth agents pride themselves on having a unique perspective on the entire process of matching people with homes, from the little things we see that others miss, to the neighbourhoods we know like the back of our hands. Find out what your London property is worth by booking a market appraisal today.