A recent study reveals a surprising 7-point increase over two years in sales of F- and G-rated properties, known as energy passoires. These properties now account for 18% of total sales in the second quarter of 2023.
What's the rush to buy energy-saving garbage?
In a tougher economic climate, with rising interest rates and declining property purchasing power, energy flats - on average 15% less expensive than a similar, better-insulated property - are emerging as a cost-effective solution. This is particularly true in certain rural départements such as Cher, where the price differential can be as much as 63%.
The constraints of energy slums
However, buying an energy sieve is not without its constraints. These include higher energy bills due to poor insulation, and the forthcoming ban on renting out these types of property. Despite this, an OpinionWay survey reveals that 46% of French people, and as many as 58% of young adults (25-34), consider these homes to be good investments.
The cost of energy optimization
While the purchase of an energy sieve may seem economical at the outset, the cost of improvement work should not be overlooked. In fact, energy optimization of a colander can cost an average of 16,000 euros to gain one energy class on a single-family home, and 26,000 euros to gain two.
In short, while the more affordable purchase price of energy-guzzling homes makes them attractive, they also require a substantial investment to renovate. Buyers need to weigh up the pros and cons: are they prepared to invest over the long term to turn their property into a profitable investment?
