Futureproofing is the process of creating a home that suits changing lifestyles while being set up for current and potentially future technology. This can be achieved by making the home flexible, energy efficient, accessible, and sustainable. If you’re selling a home, futureproofing is especially important because it has the power to boost the overall value.
Make Room for Flexibility
Designing a home with flexibility in mind is one of the most effective ways to futureproof a home because it means it can facilitate any lifestyle of need. Here are a number of strategies for boosting flexibility within the home:
- Account for future expansions: Future homeowners may need more space, so consider leaving additional room in the attic or basement.
- Use moveable partitions and walls: Moveable walls have the power to split a larger room into two while leaving the option to use the larger space.
- Design multi-purpose spaces: Instead of assigning specific rooms a purpose, be a little more fluid during the design process.
Install Smart Technology
Smart technology has become widely available and affordable in the mainstream market, and it’s reached a point where smart technology is almost expected in homes. In particular, temperature levels controlled by a smart thermostat app are highly sought after because they can save around 8% on utility bills. Other popular smart technology includes:
- LED bulbs
- Doorbells
- Security systems
- Locks
When choosing smart technology for the home, make sure you choose compatible devices to avoid issues with interoperability. This is even more significant if you choose to use Apple devices because they don’t play well with others.
Integrate Energy Efficiency
Prospective buyers favor homes that will save energy, which is why energy efficiency is a central part of futureproofing. Effective ways to make a home more energy efficient include switching to renewable energy, installing energy-efficient appliances, and making sure the home is properly insulated with the most effective material.
Choose Sustainable Materials
Alongside energy-efficient homes, buyers are looking for sustainability, so include appropriate efforts in your futureproofing plan. Using sustainable materials will allow you to sell your home at a higher price because it will be more attractive. Some of the top sustainable materials include:
- Cork: Harvested from the bark of oak trees, cork is durable, sustainable, and versatile.
- Bamboo: This strong material can be used for cabinetry, furniture, and flooring. It also grows really fast.
- Recycled wood: Diverting waste wood into a sustainable material helps to reduce pollution.
- Recycled glass: Glass can be recycled to create countertops, backsplashes, tiles, and much more. As well as being sustainable, it’s also aesthetically pleasing.
- Linoleum: Made from cork dust, wood flour, and linseed oil, this sustainable material is a great option for flooring.
Think About Accessibility
The more accessible your home is, the larger your potential buyer pool will be. Accessibility features include voice-activated devices, walk-in showers, elevators/ramps, wide doorways, grab bars, and lowered cabinets/countertops. As well as this, you can set furniture in a way that’s easy to navigate.
By integrating these tips into home design, you’ll create a futureproofed property with boosted interest and increased value.
