Green Deal makes would-be home buyers wary

A new Which? survey has revealed that it still pays to think carefully about whether a Green Deal loan is right for you, if you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Our results indicate that prospective home buyers are wary of buying a property that has a Green Deal loan attached to it.  However, awareness of the scheme has significantly increased.

We found:

  • A fifth (21%) of people would reconsider buying a home if it had a Green Deal loan attached to it;
  • Almost half the people (46%) would want a Green Deal loan paid off before they bought the property; and
  • Generally awareness of the Green Deal has increased since the launch in January from a third (35%) to more than half (52%)

 

Which? executive director Richard Lloyd said:

“With rising energy prices still one of the top consumer worries, measures that help people make their homes more energy efficient are vital to help save money on bills.

“The Green Deal might work for some people but, as with any financial product, whether it’s a good deal for you will depend upon your personal and financial circumstances.  Overall, people should tread carefully, check the small print and shop around.”

 

Notes to Editors

  1. We surveyed 2070 people in April 2013 about the Green Deal.  Results have been weighted to be representative of the UK population.
  1. The Green Deal is the Government initiative that offers people the opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.  For more information and advice about the Green Deal go to www.which.co.uk/greendeal

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