When preparing to sell your home, most people think about repainting walls, tidying the garden, or updating kitchens and bathrooms. But new research suggests that one often-overlooked feature could add up to £28,000 to your property’s value – and it’s surprisingly simple.
The humble utility room has emerged as one of the most sought-after features among today’s buyers. It’s not glamorous, but its practical appeal is hard to ignore.
Whether it’s for laundry, storage, or keeping everyday clutter out of sight, a utility room offers something many buyers now prioritise: organisation and separation between living and functional spaces.
In a market where layout and flow matter more than ever, this feature is proving to be a strong differentiator.
According to new analysis by London estate agents Benham and Reeves, homes with a utility room are significantly more likely to be under offer than those without.
Across Britain, 34.5% of homes with a utility room are already sold subject to contract. In high-demand areas like Scotland, that figure rises to 46.2%.
But here’s the catch: only 19.3% of homes for sale in Britain currently list a utility room. In other words, demand far outstrips supply.
If your home already includes a utility space – or has the potential for one – you could be sitting on a real selling advantage.
The potential value boost is not insignificant. Nationally, utility rooms are thought to add an average 5% to a property’s price.
With the current UK average house price at £271,126, that’s a potential uplift of over £13,500.
In regions with higher property values, the gains are even more striking:
● London: £27,781
● South East: £19,233
● East of England: £16,923
● South West: £15,410
While Bury St Edmunds doesn't see London-level prices, local sellers in Suffolk and the wider East of England could still enjoy a five-figure benefit if their home includes this in-demand feature.
In our local market, where buyers range from families upsizing to professionals relocating from busier parts of the country, practical features carry real weight.
With working from home now a permanent shift for many, buyers are looking for homes that support busy lifestyles. Utility rooms help maintain calm, organised living areas – a key point of difference, especially in family homes.
And with fewer than 1 in 5 homes on the market currently offering a utility room, properties that do stand out.
If you’re thinking about selling, now is the time to take stock. Does your home already have a utility room that could be showcased more clearly in your listing? Could a box room, underused extension, or large kitchen be reworked to include one?
Even small investments in adapting your layout could yield returns – not just in buyer interest, but in final sale price.
As buyer expectations continue to shift, small but strategic features like a utility room are becoming more important than ever. In a competitive market, the difference between ‘for sale’ and ‘sold’ may come down to features that make everyday life easier.
If you're considering selling your home in Bury St Edmunds, think beyond the obvious upgrades. The value might already be built into your layout – it just needs to be brought to the forefront.
At Coakley & Theaker, we’re more than just estate agents, we’re your local property partners. With a wealth of experience and a passion for helping people find their ideal homes, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service every step of the way. If you’re considering a move to Bury St Edmunds in 2025 or want expert advice on the local property market, contact us today. Call 01284 769691, or get in touch via our social media profiles to discuss your options.
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk 01284 769691 or 01359 256821 or 01449 737706 or 07803 138123
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