What are Cardiff home buyers looking for in 2026?
The start of a new year always feels like a fresh page and if you’re thinking about selling your home in Cardiff, now’s the perfect moment to pause and consider what buyers are really looking for.
Across Cardiff and the surrounding areas, buyer priorities are evolving.Here’s what we’re seeing in 2026:
Homes that work for modern life
People are using their homes differently now - and buyers notice the potential of your space.
Many buyers mix office days with working from home. Spaces that can flex - a spare room as a study, a dining room that doubles as a workspace, or a clear separation between living and working areas - are highly appealing.
Families are thinking ahead. Extra rooms for guests, older family members, or children staying at home longer are all on the wishlist. Ground-floor rooms and sensible flow between spaces make a home feel like it will work now and for years to come.
Buyers aren’t always chasing the bigger homes either - they want homes that feel well thought through, with spaces that make sense and are easy to live in.
Energy efficiency & running costs
Running costs are front of mind for buyers, but we have to say, we find their expectations do tend to be realistic.
Buyers want clarity..how expensive is the home to heat? What improvements have been made? Are there easy ways to improve efficiency over time?
Small, practical upgrades such as a modern boiler, improved insulation, or double glazing, can make a big difference.
In newer Cardiff developments, energy ratings and future-proofing are increasingly important.
For sellers, we'd say this isn't to say you need to be thinking of huge renovations. It’s about knowing your home, understanding its running costs, and being able to explain them honestly.
Location matters
Location has always mattered, but today buyers are looking beyond the postcode.
Walkable access to shops, schools, cafés, and parks makes a property more appealing.
Cardiff buyers value a sense of community and local conveniences. Areas like Roath, Canton, Penylan and Splott are increasingly popular for their strong sense of community, local cafés, and indepdendent shops. Families and dog owners love being close to green spaces like Roath Park, Llandaff Fields, Victoria Park and Penarth’s seafront, perfect for walks and weekend strolls.
Good links to work, schools, and services can be the deciding factor for many buyers.
We make sure these local highlights are front and centre in our marketing. From lifestyle-focused photos and videos to detailed property descriptions to showcasing proximity to schools, green spaces, and local amenities, we help buyers see how your home fits into the life they want to live.
Condition & presentation
First impressions matter more than ever.
Buyers in 2026 are less willing to take on major projects unless they’re priced accordingly. Decorating? Fine. Big repairs? Less appealing.
Clean, well-maintained homes with good natural light give buyers confidence and make them feel a property is move-in ready.
Homes presented clearly and honestly attract more serious interest and tend to sell faster.
Even small signs of neglect can give buyers pause. Addressing straightforward issues before marketing often makes a home feel simpler, easier, and more inviting.
Properties with potential
Budget-conscious buyers are looking for easy, practical wins rather than huge projects.
Think kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and storage - improvements that make a difference without breaking the bank.
Solid, good-value homes where comfort and practicality are built in are in high demand.
Confidence & transparency
Alongside physical features, buyers are placing more value than ever on clarity and honesty.
Clear pricing, transparent information, and organised viewings make buyers feel comfortable and in control.
Homes that feel straightforward to buy often attract stronger enquiries than those that raise questions.
Selling in 2026: Make your home stand out
Thinking about selling this year? Make sure you work with an agent who shouts about all the great features of your home and does everything possible to make it stand out and achieve the best sale.
Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help you present your home for maximum impact.
The information contained within this article was correct at the date of publishing and is not guaranteed to remain correct in the present day.
