Resident reviews remain positive in 2021 despite lockdown fatigue

Resident reviews of new build homes have remained constant at the start of 2021, according to thousands of reviews collected by HomeViews since the start of the year. Despite frustrations with lockdown conditions, the new homes experience remains a positive one for owners and tenants alike.

HomeViews looked at reviews collected during the first six weeks of 2021 and compared them with an all-time average for the site. Only minor changes can be seen in most review categories, with some showing positive change for 2021.

For example, scores for Location and Value showed a slight increase across all new-build developments at the start of 2021. Meanwhile, BTR residents indicated they had a particularly positive experience in specific categories.

Reviewing Angel Gardens, M4

“Love!”

Verified Resident

Sarah honeyz

Dubai vibes through out Looks and smells fresh everyday The location is amazing so central and walking distance to town The service is amazing all the staff are the best people who always go out there way I love living here and would never move Xx Read All

Dubai vibes through out Looks and smells fresh everyday The location is amazing so central and walking distance to Read All

93% of BTR residents in our 2021 sample said they would recommend their current landlord – compared with a 90% all-time average. BTR ratings for customer service, repairs and maintenance, and additional service scores have also been higher than average at the start of 2021.

Positive reviews indicate that BTR residents are impressed by how they have been looked after during lockdown.

Reviewing Dalston Works, E8

“Dalston Works 100000 Stars”

Verified Resident

Maya Shani

Starting with the staff, they are an absolute pleasure. We are ecstatic to pass through the building concierge to say hello. They are accommodating, helpful, and honestly friendly. The facilities offered such as 24/7 maintenance has truly helped us in so many ways. Our furniture is wonderful, the quality of the development is off the Read All

Starting with the staff, they are an absolute pleasure. We are ecstatic to pass through the building concierge to Read All

The only category to see a more significant drop since the start of the year was the Facilities score across all new build developments. This dipped from an all-time average of 4.14 out of 5 down to 3.97.

This is perhaps not surprising given how many communal facilities have had to be closed due to social distancing measures. A small number of reviewers mentioned that they were looking forward to being able to try out the facilities that had been closed.

Concerned about negative reviews? Not sure how to make the most of resident feedback? This short talk with HomeViews CEO Rory Cramer and Fizzy Living Managing Director Harry Downes explains how to use HomeViews reviews to maximum advantage.

HomeViews provides verified resident reviews of the UK’s housing developments. We’re working with developers, landlords and the Government to recognise high performers and help to improve standards in the built environment.