Homes with bike storage are the new ‘must’ for UK renters as searches have soared since lockdown began, according to new data from video viewings rental platform, Movebubble.
Searches for properties with cycle storage are up 1500% on the video-first rental app compared to the week before lockdown, as people continue to be discouraged from using public transport amid concerns about catching coronavirus, many households, especially in the cities, have rediscovered cycling as a way of safely getting around.
Movebubble, who analysed internal data from over 700,000 users comparing week 16 (w/c 16 March), to week 19 (w/c 4 May), reveals traditional ‘curb appeal’ has also been replaced by ‘lawn allure’ as searches for properties with outdoor space have gone through the roof since lockdown.
Searches for properties with a garden were up 193% compared to the week before lockdown – highlighting renters’ newfound appreciation for the need to have access to the outdoors.
The appetite for terraces has also leapt by 204% – shining a light on how Britons are now placing a new-found importance on access to Vitamin D when searching for a new place to call home.
Aidan Rushby, CEO of Movebubble said, “Weeks of uncertainty and restricted hours outdoors have forced people to reassess what they really want from their home. Whilst traditionally, many would be willing to forgo an outdoor space in favour of a larger kitchen, we are now seeing the opposite trend emerge.
“Since the lockdown came into effect, not only have we seen behaviour rapidly adapting to Home Walkthrough video viewings – but we can also see a pattern of desires coming to light in the search for a new home.=
“These include the need for additional space in the form of bike storage – so people can travel safely and minimize the need for public transport.”
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