Should You Improve Your BER Before Selling Your Home?

If you’re thinking about selling your home, you may be wondering whether it’s worth investing in energy efficiency improvements before putting your property on the market.

It’s a question we’re being asked more frequently, and recent research suggests there is good reason why.

Energy-efficient homes are achieving higher prices

The latest Geowox Housing Market Report (Q2 2026) found that second-hand homes with an A or B BER rating are achieving a 27.3% premium over homes rated C–G. Based on Ireland’s current median house price of €393,000, that’s a difference of almost €100,000.

While every property is different, the research highlights an important shift in buyer behaviour. Energy efficiency is becoming a much bigger consideration when buyers compare homes.

Why is BER becoming more important?

A few years ago, the BER certificate was often viewed as just another document required when selling a property.

Today, it’s one of the first things many buyers look at.

With rising energy costs, green mortgage products and a greater focus on sustainability, buyers are thinking beyond the purchase price. They are also considering:

• Future energy bills
• Comfort and warmth
• The cost of upgrading a home
• Long-term running costs

A strong BER rating can give buyers greater confidence and make a property more appealing.

Should you improve your BER before selling?

The answer isn’t always straightforward.

Some improvements, such as upgrading insulation, installing more efficient heating systems or replacing windows, can make a home more attractive to buyers. However, not every improvement will deliver the same return, and in some cases the cost of the work may outweigh any increase in value.

Every property should be assessed individually.

Location still matters

While energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important, it is only one factor that influences property value.

Here in West Cork, and Kinsale we regularly see buyers prioritising location, views and lifestyle. Coastal homes, in particular, often command strong prices because of their unique setting—something that simply cannot be recreated.

A spectacular sea view will always be a significant selling point, regardless of a property’s BER rating.

Get the right advice before investing

Before spending money on energy upgrades, it’s worth seeking professional advice.

Understanding your local market, the type of buyer your property is likely to attract and which improvements are likely to add value can help you make informed decisions.

At DNG Galvin, we help homeowners understand what buyers are looking for in today’s market and how best to present their property for sale.

If you’re considering selling your home, we’d be delighted to provide a no-obligation property appraisal and discuss the best strategy for achieving the strongest possible result.

Written by Majella Galvin

BS (Hons) Real Estate | MRICS | MSCSI
Chartered Member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Majella Galvin is an award-winning Chartered Surveyor, Registered Valuer, and Director of DNG Galvin, a multi-award-winning, family-run estate agency serving Cork and West Cork for over 40 years. An award-winning industry leader, Majella serves as Vice Chair of the SCSI Residential Professional Group, is a committee member of the SCSI Southern Region, and is regularly featured in national media and podcasts, including The Irish Times, Irish Examiner, Virgin Media News, and iProperty Radio. With 17 years’ experience across residential, commercial, and agricultural property, she provides expert guidance and trusted advice to homeowners navigating the property market.

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