Property has always been about location, condition, and amenities. However, recent data suggests another quirky factor could play a role in your property’s value: your house number. Surprisingly, it appears that houses numbered “1” typically command higher prices, while those carrying the supposedly unlucky “13” fetch less on the market.
A Game of Numbers: The Surprising Statistics
In an intriguing study encompassing around 10 million homes, it was revealed that houses bearing the number “13” possess the lowest average value among all properties numbered from one to 100. These homes average around £354,793, roughly £5,000 below the general average.
In stark contrast, properties numbered “1” enjoy the highest average value at £393,690. That’s a significant £40,000, or approximately 11%, more than their “13” counterparts, according to Rightmove, a prominent UK property website.
The Highs and Lows: Top and Bottom Door Numbers
Homes with single-digit numbers, specifically from one to eight, typically exhibit strong valuations. However, two unexpected contenders, numbers “76” and “78”, broke into the top 10, claiming ninth and tenth places with average values of £363,241 and £363,225 respectively.
On the other end of the spectrum, alongside the notorious number “13”, properties numbered “23”, “27”, “73”, “57”, “21”, and “19” reported lower average values. For instance, homes with the number “23” had an average value of £355,702, whereas those numbered “73” came in at £355,816.
Edward Thomson, director at Strutt & Parker, Sloane Street, commented, “In Britain, the number 13 is famously ‘lucky for some’, although unfortunate for others. It’s common for new developments to skip it, going straight from 12 to 14, to remove the element of superstition.”
Superstitions Versus Bargains: A Buyer’s Dilemma
Rightmove’s study noted an intriguing trend: there are nearly double the houses numbered “14” compared to “13”, suggesting that superstition might influence numbering choices in new developments. This phenomenon introduces a unique opportunity for non-superstitious buyers. By targeting properties bearing the number “13”, they could potentially snag a bargain.
Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s property expert, stated, “The majority of buyers are unlikely to be put off by owning a number 13 home, but it’s interesting to see from such a large dataset that there does appear to be pockets of Britain that are more on the superstitious side.”
The Impact of Names Over Numbers
The discussion takes an interesting turn when considering property names instead of numbers. Renowned buying agent Henry Pryor shared, “House names do add value. Numbers are impersonal and commercial, but a name is warmer and therefore more aspirational and so more valuable.”
However, Pryor also expressed skepticism about the impact of unlucky numbers on property values, mentioning, “I’ve bought and sold homes for 40 years and never come across this superstition. It’s hard to imagine that in the crazy market anyone would take a reduction just because of the number.”
Other Critical Factors in Property Valuation
While the influence of door numbers is fascinating, it’s essential to remember the myriad other factors significantly impacting property values. These include the property’s location, its proximity to quality schools, transport links, and the presence of a south-facing garden, among others.
In a separate survey by Halifax, over half of first-time buyers cited the price of a property as their top priority. Other critical factors were proximity to family and friends, local crime rates, and the sense of community in the area. Additionally, potential workplaces, green spaces, and closeness to cities were crucial for buyers, indicating a willingness to expand their search radius for the perfect home.
Conclusion: Superstition or Not, Every Little Helps
Whether or not you’re superstitious, the findings present an interesting strategy for buyers and sellers in the property market. For the non-superstitious, it might be a chance to capitalise on others’ superstitions to negotiate a better deal. For everyone else, it’s a reminder that in the intricate ballet of property valuation, sometimes even the unexpected can make a substantial difference.