More energy-efficient homes changing hands as London leads the charge

The latest research from Benham and Reeves has shown that the number of more energy efficient properties changing hands across England is on the up, having increased by 1.5% over the last four quarters – with 61.3% of homes now boasting an minimum EPC rating of C.

The research analysed EPC data linked to property transactions across England over the last four quarters (Q2 2024 to Q1 2025 – latest available), looking at what percentage of properties held an EPC rating of C or better and how this proportion of properties compared to the previous four quarters.

The research shows that, overall, the proportion of energy-efficient homes sold in England has increased  by 1.5% over the last four quarters, with 61.3% of homes boasting an EPC rating of C or better.

London recorded the highest proportion of these properties at 64.3%, cementing its position as the best region of the market for energy efficient homes, despite seeing an increase of just 0.6% – the joint lowest along with the South East.

The West Midlands showed the largest year-on-year growth in the share of energy-efficient homes changing hands, rising by 3.3 percentage points to 58.5%.

The East Midlands and East of England also saw notable increases, up 2.9% and 2.3% respectively.

Yorkshire and The Humber (+1.8%) and the North West (+1.7%)  followed with solid improvements in the proportion of stock holding an EPC C rating or better.

However, at 57.1%, the total proportion of homes across Yorkshire and Humber with an EPC rating of C or better was the lowest of all regions of England.

Marc von Grundherr, Director of Benham and Reeves, commented:

“The growing number of energy-efficient homes changing hands is a positive sign for both buyers and the environment.

London’s continued leadership highlights the capital’s strength in offering greener housing options, while the significant gains in regions like the West Midlands demonstrate a promising trend nationwide.

Improving energy efficiency is critical as we move towards a more sustainable housing market and so it’s great to see that the hard work is being done to boost the quality of housing stock in order to help meet these sustainability targets.”