Remote Work: The Impact on Homeowners 

Work has changed in big ways in recent years, with remote work becoming more common across all sorts of industries. The COVID-19 pandemic really pushed this shift into the spotlight, leading many companies to embrace flexible work arrangements for the long haul. As remote work keeps reshaping our work lives, it’s also significantly impacting homeowners. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the future of remote work and how it’s affecting homeownership. 

The Rise of Remote Work 

Remote work, once considered a perk for a select few, has now become mainstream. Technological advances and changing attitudes toward work-life balance have fuelled the rise of remote work. Employees are no longer tethered to traditional office spaces, freeing them to work from virtually anywhere with an internet connection. 

Bjorn Jarvis, ABS head of labour statistics, states:  

“Our latest data, for August 2023, shows that 37 per cent of Australians work from home regularly. While this was down from around 40 per cent in 2021, it was still five percentage points above the pre-pandemic level, showing that many of the changes in behaviour and working arrangements have continued beyond the pandemic.”  

It’s fair to say that remote work isn’t going anywhere and that there’s an increase in other arrangements like more flexible working hours.  

Changing Home Preferences 

The shift to remote work has changed what people are looking for in their homes. With more of us working from home, we’re taking a fresh look at our living spaces and searching for homes that fit our new work-from-home lifestyles. Whether it’s a dedicated home office, a quiet space for video calls, or simply a layout that supports better work-life balance, remote work is making us rethink how our homes work for us. 

According to builder G.J.Gardner Homes, features such as the following have become increasingly desirable to home buyers: 

• Dedicated home offices 

• Home gyms 

• Multi-use spaces 

• Storage 

• Natural light 

• Outdoor spaces (for breaks)  

• Functional and adaptable layouts 

• More open space 

Suburban Resurgence 

The pandemic triggered a renewed interest in suburban living as many homeowners sought homes with more space for remote work and outdoor activities.  

Today, this trend continues as more people opt for the suburbs, drawn by the promise of larger homes and better affordability than city centres.  

As remote work remains a significant part of our lives, the appeal of suburban areas has grown, offering a quieter and more spacious environment perfect for balancing work and leisure. 

Rural Retreats 

Beyond suburban areas, rural communities have also seen an influx of remote workers seeking a slower pace of life and a closer connection to nature. Remote work has helped individuals to live in rural areas while maintaining their careers and revitalising rural communities and local economies. In fact, 7 million people now reside in rural locations across the country – or 28% of the Australian population.  

Impact on Urban Centres 

On the flip side, remote work has made people question the future of city living.  

With many companies sticking with remote work long-term, the buzz of living in crowded urban areas isn’t as strong for some.  

But let’s not forget cities still offer that cool mix of cultural hotspots, lively nightlife, and diverse communities that keep people coming back, even with the shift to working from home. 

Home Office Design Trends 

Working from home can have its challenges! And, as remote work becomes more entrenched in our community, homeowners are investing in home office spaces that promote productivity and comfort. 

One of the most recommended design philosophies for a modern workspace is minimalism. This is because there are many distractions while working from home – whether it’s needy family members, roommates, pets, or even just the internet itself.’ 

Source: Habitus Living

Design trends such as ergonomic furniture, natural lighting, and soundproofing are gaining popularity as homeowners seek to create optimal work environments within their homes. 

Flexible Living Spaces 

In addition to dedicated home offices, homeowners are embracing flexible living spaces that can adapt to their changing needs. Multi-purpose rooms that serve as both a workspace and a leisure area allow homeowners to maximise the functionality of their homes while maintaining a sense of balance between work and relaxation. 

Tech-Enabled Homes 

Technology is a game-changer for remote work, and homeowners are all about adding smart features to their homes.  

Whether it’s smart thermostats, cool lighting systems, security cameras, or virtual assistants, these tech upgrades make working from home more convenient, efficient, and secure. And at its core is home automation! 

Would you believe that the smart home market in Australia was expected to reach over 4.5 billion U.S. dollars in revenue by 2026? 

Remote Work & The Future of Homeownership 

As remote work continues to reshape our daily lives, it’s changing what people want in a home. Today’s buyers prioritise flexibility, strong connectivity, and comfortable living spaces catering to remote work needs. These enhancements meet the demands of modern living and boost your home’s saleability. Homes with dedicated workspaces, reliable internet connectivity, and adaptable living areas are increasingly attractive to prospective buyers.  

Looking ahead, the future of remote work opens up exciting possibilities for Hunter Valley homeowners. Embracing these trends can make your property stand out in a competitive market and appeal to a broader range of buyers. By understanding and incorporating these changes, you can enhance your home’s value and appeal, creating a space that supports your lifestyle and future sale prospects. 

Are you thinking about buying or selling? Let us support your property journey with expert conveyancing advice and support every step of the way. Contact our team today or start your free conveyancing quote.