Only 3% said they wanted a full renovation, and another 3% were willing to take on homes needing structural changes.
The Intermediary · https://theintermediary.co.uk/2026/06/77-of-homebuyers-seek-properties-requiring-no-work-finds-yopa/
Homebuyers are steering clear of renovation projects, according to research from Yopa, with 77% looking for homes that need little or no work.
Only 3% said they wanted a full renovation, and another 3% were willing to take on homes needing structural changes.
17% were open to properties needing full redecoration or modernisation.
Most buyers wanted a home ready to live in, with 54% only prepared for minor cosmetic updates and 23% after a fully modernised, turnkey property.
The main reason for avoiding renovation was to steer clear of disruption, with 21% giving this answer.
Other reasons included wanting to move in quickly (17%), lack of time (15%), and not having DIY skills (15%).
For those willing to take on a project, 21% said it was to get a lower price, 19% wanted to create their own style, and 16% saw it as a way to add value.
Most buyers stuck to their plans – 79% bought the type of property they originally intended.
13% compromised by buying a home needing more work, while 8% bought one needing less.
Stock availability was not a major factor, with 70% saying it did not affect how much work they were willing to take on.
Verona Frankish, CEO at Yopa, said: “Whilst the market remains resilient, home sellers are facing a more competitive landscape when it comes to attracting a buyer.
“Demand levels are currently below where they were this time last year and so it’s important to understand what today’s buyers are actually looking for.
“Our research shows that the vast majority want a home that is ready to live in from day one, with only a very small proportion actively seeking a renovation project or a property requiring significant work.”
Frankish added: “Whilst sellers may assume that bringing a property to market in need of improvement could appeal due to the lower asking price, today’s buyers are placing a premium on convenience, certainty and a seamless move.
“As a result, those sellers who invest in presenting their home in the best possible condition are likely to appeal to the widest pool of buyers and stand the strongest chance of securing a successful sale.”
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