Secret House Hunting? Nearly Half of Homeowners Are 'Property Traitors'!
Secret House Hunting? Nearly Half of Homeowners Are 'Property Traitors'!
Ever secretly browse new homes? You're not alone! A new survey reveals 44% of homeowners are researching property moves behind their partners' backs. Discover why this trend is on the rise!
It seems many homeowners are leading secret lives, at least when it comes to their living situations! A recent survey has unveiled that a surprising 44% of homeowners who live with at least one other adult are secretly taking steps towards a potential property move without their housemates or partners even knowing.
They've been dubbed "property traitors," and their clandestine activities range from casually browsing homes for sale to discreetly checking the value of their current residence.
It involves active research.
These secret movers are also looking into new neighborhoods and calculating what they could realistically afford for their next home.
The survey, commissioned by Zoopla, paints a picture of covert operations happening right under unsuspecting noses.
Imagine this: you're sitting on the couch watching TV with your partner, and one-third (36%) of these "property traitors" are secretly scrolling through property listings on their phone. It doesn't stop there; nearly one-fifth (18%) admit to browsing at work, while 12% use their commute time to plot their next move.
The element of surprise is key for many, with more than a fifth (21%) of those looking to buy planning to keep their intentions under wraps until they are absolutely certain about making the move.
Richard Donnell, executive director at Zoopla, emphasizes the importance of early research in today's housing market.
With higher mortgage rates impacting buying power, but also more homes available giving buyers greater choice and negotiation room, "doing your homework early is important." He advises potential movers to understand what they can afford, how far their budget will stretch in different areas, and for current homeowners, to know their home's worth and available equity.
The research, conducted by Opinium in September, surveyed 2,000 people across the UK who share their homes with another adult. It highlights a fascinating trend of individual planning and decision-making when it comes to one of life's biggest financial and personal commitments.
