The Rural Living Revolution
The pandemic-driven shift toward countryside living shows no signs of slowing. With more people working remotely, buyer priorities have changed, and we are seeing an ongoing trend towards the popularity of homes in suburban or rural locations over city centre living, now that commuting times are no longer a factor for so many workers—a change clearly reflected in the growing demand reported by estate agents in Cumbria.
Cumbria Estate Agents Report:
- The appeal of rural living has been on the rise, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Many individuals and families are seeking a lifestyle change, prioritizing space, tranquility, and a connection with nature. Cumbria, with its stunning Lake District and quaint villages, perfectly aligns with these desires.
- Traditional stone cottages and rural properties with scenic views and land are also highly desirable, particularly among out-of-area buyers looking to embrace the lifestyle opportunities that this South West tip of Cumbria offers.
Energy Efficiency: The New Must-Have
EPC Rating C Is the New Standard
Energy efficiency has become a critical consideration for buyers, driven by both environmental awareness and economic concerns. Buyers who might want to rent property for short term lets, long term rentals, or just occasionally, are very concerned about buying anything with an EPC below a C rating as successive Governments are committed to setting EPC standards for rental properties.
Key Energy Features Buyers Want:
- Solar panels and renewable energy systems
- Electric vehicle charging stations
- Heat pumps and energy-efficient heating systems
- Double or triple-glazed windows
- LED lighting throughout
- Smart meters and home automation
Since energy-efficient homes have lower maintenance costs, environmental awareness and economic concerns are driving this transition. Properties with strong eco-credentials are expected to command higher prices and attract environmentally conscious buyers.
Flexible Living Spaces
Home Offices Are Non-Negotiable
Buyers want extra space. An office or study is a pre-requisite for almost everybody who has a desk-based job. The shift toward remote working means buyers are specifically seeking:
- Dedicated home office spaces with good internet connectivity
- Flexible rooms that can serve multiple purposes
- Quiet areas suitable for video calls
- Additional outbuildings that can be converted (garages, barns, annexes)
Multi-Purpose Spaces
With more time spent at home, property owners want a garage, barn or annexe to turn into something, whether that’s a yoga space; gym, artisanal space for arts and crafts or brewing or carpentry, party barns, bike workshops and store.
Privacy and Outdoor Space
The Escape from Urban Restrictions
London buyers of part-time country houses want to be private. They’re escaping the restrictions and rules of the city, and they want the freedom to do what they want and make as much as noise as they like!
What Buyers Seek:
- Large gardens and outdoor spaces
- Private courtyards and patios
- Access to green areas and countryside
- Properties with land for vegetables and greenhouses
- Proximity to outdoor activities and scenic views
Family-Focused Features
Traditional Family Homes in Demand
Three- and four-bedroom family homes continue to top buyers’ wish lists, especially those with gardens and off-street parking.
Essential Family Features:
- Multiple bedrooms (3-4 bedrooms most popular)
- Sufficient parking spaces
- Safe outdoor play areas for children
- Storage solutions throughout the home
- Proximity to good schools and local amenities
Technology and Marketing Expectations
Digital-First Property Experience
Buyers expect sophisticated digital marketing from estate agents:
- Virtual live video walkthroughs provide customised experiences with real-time discussion and feedback, even across long distances.
- Professional photography and drone imaging
- 3D floor plans and virtual tours
- AR apps are transforming the market, allowing buyers to visualise renovations and furniture layouts, boosting engagement by 40%.
Regional Preferences: Cumbria Hotspots
Sought-After Cumbrian Areas:
- Areas such as Kendal, Penrith, and Keswick are particularly popular, experiencing significant price appreciation.
- Specific areas being sought after are notably the Furness Peninsula, including Ulverston, Broughton, and Millom.
Investment and Affordability Considerations
Price Expectations
The average property price in Cumbria county is £224k, the median price is £185k. This makes Cumbria attractive compared to southern regions, with buyers able to get more space and lifestyle benefits for their money.
Market Activity
A clear trend we’re seeing is the return of buyers who had stopped proactively searching for property due to the economic uncertainty in recent years and interest rate hikes. We are also seeing, as a result if competitive mortgage products, a resurgence of first-time buyers looking to invest on the first rung of the property ladder.
What Estate Agents Must Deliver
Professional Service Standards
Professional photography, premium listings, virtual tours—these aren’t luxuries, they’re essentials. But low-fee agents often skip them to cut costs. The result? Less exposure, fewer viewings, and a home that lingers on the market.
Key Service Expectations:
- Comprehensive property marketing across all major portals
- Expert valuation and pricing advice
- Proactive communication throughout the process
- Strong negotiation skills
- Local market knowledge and expertise
The Countryside Dream
The countryside dream is alive and well, but is becoming more out of reach for young families, especially as there’s more focus on returning to office-based work. Digital nomads and entrepreneurs who have more flexibility are seeking out the good life, a property with eco-credentials, a bit of land for vegetables and a greenhouse, and access to sea or country or both.
For Cumbrian Estate Agents: This presents a unique opportunity, as the region offers exactly what modern buyers want – stunning natural surroundings, relative affordability, good connectivity, and a lifestyle that balances work flexibility with outdoor pursuits.
The successful estate agents of 2025 are those who understand these evolving buyer preferences and adapt their services accordingly, combining traditional local expertise with modern digital marketing and a deep understanding of the lifestyle aspirations driving today’s property market.
