The Top 50 things that make a house feel like home in the East of England

A comfy sofa, family photos, and hosting Christmas have been revealed among the top things that those in the East of England say make a house feel like home.

New research from leading housebuilder, Redrow, which has developments across the region including Hazel Park and Mandeville Crescent has unveiled the top 50 things those in the East of England say are key in making a house/flat feel like home – and some of the answers may surprise you.

Interestingly, many across the East of England say it’s the little things like marking your kid’s height on the walls that can make a house feel like a home. And although the kitchen is often thought of as the heart of the home, this is no longer the case in the East of England- 55% of those in the region voted their lounge as being at the heart of their home, with 49% prioritising this room in their current property to decorate.

Some of the more unusual, but increasingly popular features on the top 50* list included an induction hob and an air source heat pump- suggesting that sustainable technology is becoming integral to our sense of home.

On average, it takes those living in the East of England, 6-11 months from moving in for a new house to feel like home (46%), but for 25% it takes more than a year.

Homely décor featured in the list includes family photos, natural light, plants and flowers, or heirlooms passed down through generations. Snuggling up on the sofa to watch your favourite show, family movie nights on the sofa, and getting out in your garden were voted as little actions that also made the top 50*.

And it appears that residents in the East of England have a taste for luxury as well, with high ceilings, walk-in wardrobes, ensuite bathrooms, and underfloor heating all making the final list.

When asked what makes a house/flat feel less homely, those in the region said when a house feels cold (61%), clutter and lack of storage (47%), when there is not a lot of natural light (31%), and someone else’s décor and style choices (21%) – which is why it’s no surprise that half (50%) would prefer to decorate from a blank canvas in a new build, rather than 29% who would prefer to draw inspiration from previous owners in a second-hand property.

Commenting on the data, Jody Byrant, Sales Director at Redrow Eastern, said: “The findings of our latest research truly highlights what transforms a house into a home- whether through personal décor choice, making new memories, or adding comforting touches to settle in.

“Its clear why so many people in the region prefer a new build, allowing them to incorporate these homely details right from the start. From selecting features like underfloor heating, fixtures and fittings, and customised layouts, to experiencing life in a home that’s entirely their own from the ground up, new builds offer this unique opportunity. We hope our 50* list provides guidance for those currently moving, helping them settle in a bit faster, now that they know to tick off.