How has COVID-19 changed what we look for in a home?

Is the home really just a home anymore?

Let's be honest since COVID our houses have become homes, schools. offices and full services restaurants - especially during lockdown periods.

But according to Domain we have even changed what we look for in a home?

There has been a significant change in what people wanted in a property pre-Covid-19 to now, as the way we use our homes has changed, making a mark on our purchasing decisions and property wishlists.

Keyword searches on Domain shine a new light on specific attributes or feature prospective home hunters are looking for.

It helps us to distinguish between changing trends or fleeting moments of desirability.

Figure 3 shows:

• Location is top of mind as ‘waterfront’, ‘view’ and ‘beach’ all rank in the top keyword searches on Domain in Queensland.

• The need for space has never been more apparent with ‘garden & courtyard’ and ‘balcony & deck’ all showing some of the biggest keyword search increases.

• The importance of a dedicated workspace has become a priority, with a search for ‘study’ increasing 197% compared to before the pandemic began.

“People are spending more time at home, both with flexible working and enforced lockdowns, and desire space and access to nature within their home environment.

We’re seeing this demand for gardens, courtyards, pools and a view really shine through in our keyword searches, adding emphasis on the lifestyle elements that are important to homeowners in this current environment, and very likely as a trend that will stick around in the future.”

Dr. Nicola Powell, Chief of Research & Economics, Domain

The shift towards working from home and working remotely is also refocusing people’s attention on what is around them, encouraging Queenslanders to venture out of their existing neighbourhoods and providing more opportunities to explore regions such as the beach or hinterland area that offers an appealing lifestyle.

About Michael Yardney Michael is a director of Metropole Property Strategists who help their clients grow, protect and pass on their wealth through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. He's once again been voted Australia's leading property investment adviser and one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders. His opinions are regularly featured in the media.