Rightmove - The Word On Floorplans

Why Floorplans Are Essential for Property Listings: Insights from Rightmove Research

When it comes to property listings, the presentation is everything. From high-quality photos to detailed descriptions, every element plays a role in attracting potential buyers. However, one feature has consistently stood out as a game-changer in property presentation: the floorplan. Research by Rightmove has shown that floorplans are not only crucial but often more important than the main image or summary description when it comes to enticing buyers to inquire about a property. Let’s take a closer look at why floorplans should be a non-negotiable part of your property listing.

Buyers Want to Visualize the Layout

One of the standout findings from the research is that over a third of buyers admitted they would be less likely to inquire about a property without a floorplan. Why? Because a floorplan offers a unique opportunity to understand the flow of a home. Buyers want to see how rooms relate to one another, where key areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms are situated, and whether the layout suits their needs. A well-detailed floorplan gives them all of this information in one glance.

Room Dimensions Matter

Among the various elements buyers look for on a floorplan, room dimensions top the list. Home-hunters rated these as the most important feature when evaluating a property’s layout. Ensuring your floorplan includes accurate room measurements can be the difference between a potential buyer moving on or getting in touch with the agent. If your property is currently listed without dimensions, it’s a good idea to make sure they’re included in your listing or property details.

A Floorplan Beats the Main Image

While property photos are undeniably important, Rightmove’s survey shows that a floorplan often carries more weight than even the main image or the summary description of a property. One buyer commented, “Pictures can be deceptive; a floorplan is more definitive.” Another echoed this sentiment, saying, “I don’t want to waste unnecessary time being misled by good photos.” These insights highlight how a floorplan can provide clarity and certainty that images alone cannot. This could explain why one in five buyers would ignore a listing entirely or only revisit it if no other options catch their eye if the property lacks a floorplan.

The Viewing Barrier

If you’re trying to attract serious buyers, the absence of a floorplan can be a deal-breaker. Many buyers have said they are less likely to arrange a viewing without first seeing a floorplan. As one respondent put it, “Time is a commodity, and there are normally many other properties with a floorplan whom I would rather contact.” In fact, 1 in 10 buyers said they would never arrange to view a property without seeing a floorplan first. For others, the lack of a floorplan becomes a barrier to further engagement.

Are You Missing Out?

The data is clear—floorplans are a vital part of a buyer’s research process. If your property listing is missing this essential feature, you could be missing out on serious inquiries.