Zoopla has published research from its keyword search tool and revealed the most common terms people searched for over the past 12 months. This will give you an idea of what renters are looking for in their next home.

The research revealed that having a "garden" is the number one search term, closely followed by "parking" and "garage."

Zoopla searches
SOURCE: Zoopla.co.uk


What else do renters want?

The fourth most common search term for renters was "balcony".

Considering that roughly half of Brits own a pet, it comes as no surprise that “pets” completed the top five, perhaps reflecting the recent surge in renters who want to find pet-friendly homes.

Having the right flooring was also a priority for renters, as was rent that included household bills and having an ensuite bathroom.

The top 10 also reflected the demand for rental properties among those at university, with “student” the tenth most-searched-for term. 

Renter’s top 10 most-searched terms

  1. Garden
  2. Parking
  3. Garage
  4. Balcony
  5. Pets
  6. Flooring
  7. Bills Included
  8. Ensuite
  9. Rural
  10. Student

 

Why is this happening?

The Covid-19 pandemic has triggered a once in a lifetime reassessment of what people want from their homes. 

Lockdowns and social distancing have caused people to put a high premium on having access to outdoor space. 

Also, with more of us working from home, living in cities or close to good transport links has become less important. As a result, many home hunters are looking towards more rural locations.