From smarter energy use to shifting property types, the UKās housing stock is undergoing a quiet revolution. Whether you’re planning a move, buying your first home, or investing in a greener future, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions. Here is a snapshot from a major lenderās housing stock review and how the market has shifted.
š Englandās Housing Stock: Growth and Ownership Trends
- Total dwellings: 25.4 million (up 9% over the past decade)
- Owner-occupied homes: 64% of total stock
- Privately rented: 19%
- Social rented: 16%
Interestingly, housing growth has outpaced population growth (9% vs. 7%), suggesting more spaceābut not necessarily better use of it.
šļø Under-Occupied Homes: A Family Opportunity?
A striking 53% of owner-occupied homes in England are classified as under-occupied, meaning they have two or more spare bedrooms. This presents opportunities for:
- Growing familiesĀ seeking space
- Home moversĀ looking to upsize
- Buy-to-let investorsĀ targeting family-friendly properties
In contrast, overcrowding remains a concern in the social rented sector, affecting 8% of households.
šļø Property Types: Stability with Subtle Shifts
While the overall mix of property types has remained stable, tenure-based differences are emerging:
- Flats dominateĀ the private rented (42%) and social rented (45%) sectors
- Semi-detached homesĀ are most common among owner-occupiers (29%)
- Detached homesĀ remain popular but less accessible in urban areas
š Floor Space: Bigger Terraces, Smaller Flats
Average property sizes have nudged upward:
| Property Type | 2013 Size | 2023 Size | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flats | 61.4mĀ² | 60.3mĀ² | -1.7% |
| Bungalows | 77.0mĀ² | 77.5mĀ² | +0.6% |
| Terraced Houses | 88.7mĀ² | 91.9mĀ² | +3.6% |
| Semi-Detached | 96.9mĀ² | 99.1mĀ² | +2.2% |
| Detached Houses | 152.9mĀ² | 151.9mĀ² | -0.6% |
Owner-occupied homes average 112mĀ², while rented homes are smallerā76mĀ² (private) and 65mĀ² (social).
š Energy Efficiency: A Greener Future Is Emerging
Residential buildings account for 15% of UK greenhouse emissions, making energy upgrades essential.
Current Ratings by Tenure:
- Social rented: 72% rated AāC
- Private rented: 48%
- Owner-occupied: 49%
Improvements include:
- Loft and cavity wall insulation
- Higher efficiency in new builds
āļø Solar Panels & EV Charging: The Rise of Smart Homes
- Solar panels: 1.5 million homes (6% of stock)
- 15% of homes built in the last decade have PV panels
- EV charge points: 1.8 million homes (7%)
- 20% of post-2012 homes have EV access
Heat Pumps: Still Rare but Growing
Only 1.1% of homes use heat pumps, with rural areas leading adoption due to limited gas access.
š¬ What This Means for You
Whether you’re buying, selling, or remortgaging, these trends matter:
- Families: Look for under-occupied homes with room to grow
- Eco-conscious buyers: Prioritize energy-efficient properties with solar or EV features
- Investors: Target areas with new builds and green tech adoption
š Ready to Make Your Move?
At My Family Mortgages, we help families make smart, future-proof property decisions. From finding the right home to securing the best mortgage, weāre here to guide you every step of the way.
šĀ Book your free consultation todayĀ atĀ www.myfamilymortgages.co.uk
Source: Nationwide
Changing face of housing stock | Nationwide For Intermediaries