realestate

Homebuyers seek resilient homes in a changing climate

Buyers increasingly demand climate-resilient homes with features like flood barriers and wind-resistant doors.

C
limate concerns are increasingly influencing homebuyers' decisions. According to a new report from Zillow, nearly 90% of prospective buyers consider it essential for their future home to have at least one climate-resilient feature. As a result, listings that highlight features like flood barriers and waterproofing are on the rise, with a 20% increase over last year.

    Real estate agent Eva Davis in Washington D.C. notes that her clients are particularly concerned about flood risk, which has become more pressing as storms worsen. Homeowners insurance is also becoming harder to obtain or more expensive, further driving demand for climate-resilient homes.

    Zillow's home trends expert Amanda Pendleton observes that sellers are now highlighting features that offer protection against extreme weather, such as watertight windows and wind-resistant doors. However, Patrick Welch from the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy cautions that while climate risks are a growing concern, they often take a backseat to affordability when it comes to house hunting.

    Many people are moving into areas with high climate-related risks, but not necessarily from out of state. According to Jeremy Porter at First Street Foundation, most are relocating within their metro area or county to safer neighborhoods, rather than leaving the region altogether. When possible, they may opt for homes built to withstand these risks.

Homebuyers inspecting sustainable houses designed for resilience against natural disasters globally.