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If you’re starting to look for a new home this year, you’ve probably already got a mental checklist.
Location ✔️
Budget ✔️
Number of bedrooms ✔️
But what we’re finding here in the office is that what buyers prioritise is quietly changing.
The “must-haves” of a few years ago aren’t always the same now — and in places like Exeter, lifestyle is playing a bigger role than ever.
So if you’re house hunting in 2026, here are a few things worth keeping firmly on your radar.
🔌 1️⃣ Energy Efficiency Matters More Than Ever
This has moved from “nice bonus” to “serious consideration.”
Buyers are paying much closer attention to:
- EPC ratings
- Insulation
- Double glazing
- Boiler age and efficiency
And it’s not just about being eco-conscious — it’s about monthly running costs.
A home that’s cheaper to run is often more appealing than one that simply looks good on paper.
💻 2️⃣ Space That Works for Real Life
The way we use our homes has changed.
Working from home, hybrid schedules and side projects mean buyers are now looking for:
- A dedicated office space
- Flexible rooms
- Quiet corners with good natural light
We often hear:
“We can make it work…”
But in reality, having a space that’s already set up properly makes a big difference day to day.
🌿 3️⃣ Outdoor Space Still Holds Strong
This one hasn’t gone anywhere.
Gardens, patios and even small outdoor areas continue to be high on the wish list.
But it’s not just about size anymore — buyers are thinking about:
How usable the space is
- Privacy
- Sunlight (south-facing always gets attention ☀️)
A well-presented garden can genuinely change how a home feels.
🚗 4️⃣ Parking = Peace of Mind
Particularly in Exeter, this is a big one.
Off-road parking or a driveway can:
- Make daily life easier
- Increase long-term value
- Help a property stand out quickly
It’s one of those features buyers often don’t fully appreciate… until they don’t have it.
📍 5️⃣ Lifestyle Is Leading the Decision
We’re seeing more buyers choose an area first — and a house second.
Questions we hear all the time:
- Can I walk to a good coffee spot? ☕
- Are there green spaces nearby? 🌳
- What’s the commute actually like? 🚆
Areas like St Leonard’s, Heavitree and Topsham continue to be popular not just because of the homes — but because of the lifestyle they offer.
🔑 6️⃣ Move-In Ready Is More Appealing Than Ever
Not everyone wants a project.
With rising costs and busy lives, many buyers are leaning towards homes that feel ready to go.
That doesn’t mean everything has to be brand new — but clean, well-presented homes with minimal work needed are definitely attracting more attention.
So… What Does This Mean for Buyers?
The definition of a “perfect home” is shifting.
It’s less about ticking a rigid list of features — and more about finding a home that genuinely fits how you live day to day.
And if you’re unsure what to prioritise, that’s completely normal.
Thinking About Buying in 2026?
If you’re starting your search and want a bit of guidance on what to look out for — or what represents good value in the current market — we’re always happy to help.
No pressure. Just a conversation.
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It’s not always obvious when the time is right to move.
Sometimes it’s a clear decision.
But more often, it’s a feeling that builds over time.
A little thought like:
“We might be outgrowing this place…”
Or:
“Is this still working for us?”
If you’ve had that thought recently, you’re not alone. We have this conversation most weeks here in the office.
So here are five signs it might be time to start thinking about your next move.
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One of the most common questions we hear when someone is thinking about moving is:
“How long will it actually take to sell our house?”
It’s a completely fair question. Moving home is a big decision, and knowing roughly how long the process might take can make planning everything else much easier.
The honest answer is that every property is different. However, based on what we see day to day here in Exeter, there is a fairly typical timeline most sales tend to follow.
Here’s a realistic look at what the journey often looks like.
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Moving home is exciting.
New space. New routine. New chapter.
But alongside the excitement, there’s something we always encourage clients to think about early…
The real cost of moving.
Because the purchase price (or your sale price) is only part of the story.
Here’s what many Exeter movers don’t factor in — and how to plan properly so there are no surprises.
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Every year around February, we start hearing it:
“Shall we wait until spring to sell?”
It’s one of the biggest beliefs in property.
Longer days. Flowers blooming. Gardens looking their best.
But here’s the honest answer…
Spring can be great — but it’s not automatically the best time to sell.
Let’s break down what’s really happening in the Exeter market.
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(Hint: It’s not as logical as you think.)
Spend five minutes in an estate agency office and you’ll hear lots of talk about price per square foot, mortgage rates and negotiation strategies.
But here’s the truth…
Homes don’t sell because of logic.
They sell because of emotion.
After years of showing buyers around properties across Exeter — from St Leonard’s period townhouses to modern homes in Alphington — one thing is always clear:
People decide with their heart first. Their head just catches up later.
So if you’re thinking of selling in 2026, here’s what’s really going on in a buyer’s mind.
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But the key word there is rough.
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The return of local, personal service
Over the last few years, something interesting has been happening in Exeter’s property market. More landlords, tenants, buyers and sellers are quietly moving away from the big, national chains — and choosing smaller, independent estate agents instead.
It’s not about flashy offices or endless automated emails anymore. People want real conversations, honest advice, and someone who actually knows Exeter — not just the postcode.
So why are independents making such a strong comeback?
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This is probably the question we’re being asked more than any other at the moment — “Is now actually a good time to sell, or should I wait?”
And the honest answer is… it depends. But not in a vague, unhelpful way. It depends on your home, where it’s located, and how it’s priced and presented.
What we can do is share what we’re seeing day to day, here in Exeter, and hopefully that helps you decide what feels right for you.
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🛠️ Phase-by-Phase Implementation Roadmap
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 — now law — marks the most significant overhaul of England’s private rented sector in decades. Rather than happening all at once, reforms will be phased in over several years to give landlords, tenants and local authorities time to adapt.
