The corona crisis, the rapid evolution of technologies and changing requirements in terms of housing are all putting pressure on the construction sector and demanding that property developers carry out innovative transformations. But just what are the three most important trends for 2022? We’ve listed them all here!
1. Adaptation of new technologies continues to increase
There is a somewhat traditional culture within the construction industry, which has made it difficult for radical technological innovations to take a hold until now. However, it seems as if the integration of new technologies will become inevitable in 2022.
To look at just one example, there is an expectation that buildings will increasingly connect to each other on a large scale through the Internet of Things (IoT). There will also be a larger number of discussions taking place about Smart Communities where different buildings are connected via data. In addition to new functionalities for users in the buildings, this also delivers the opportunity to optimise energy flows on a large scale.
The maintenance and servicing of buildings will also take a step forward. It will no longer be necessary to carry out maintenance based on budgets or the number of years, for example, that an appliance has been in use. By meticulously measuring and remotely monitoring all technologies within the buildings, the building owner will know exactly when a piece of equipment is actually due for maintenance. As a result of Smart Metering, it will also be possible to immediately take action in the event of any faults or a water leak, for example. In this way, damage can be limited and clients can save on costs.
2. The lockdown effect
As a result of the lockdown periods, the construction industry is experiencing a massive materials crisis. Unfortunately, the crisis will continue to have a lasting impact in 2022. By way of example, property developers are faced with increases in prices that were not foreseen within the current project budgets. This puts significant pressure on the affordability of the real estate market and poses a major challenge for building developers.
Price increases
The fact that the price of building materials is rising is an annual phenomenon. Overall, the increase is limited to approximately 5 to 15 percent. However, research carried out by the Building Confederation shows that last year, the prices of building materials (such as steel, wood and insulation) rose by some 30 to 50 percent. This incredible increase in prices will pose challenges for property developers throughout 2022 as they try and deal with the cost of current projects.
Supply problems
According to HLN , 78% of construction companies are affected by the supply problems caused by the corona crisis. Delivery times are taking an additional two to four weeks on average. As a result, 54% of construction companies are noticing an overall slowdown in their projects. This slowdown will continue to be felt in 2022. This is therefore a major challenge faced by real estate developers when trying to meet project completion dates.
3. The latest living trend? Comfortable and sustainable living
Over the past two years, we have all spent more time in our homes than ever before. Research shows that the corona crisis has changed the general requirements relating to homes. For example, 52% of Belgians want to enjoy increased level of comfort in their homes and 48% are wanting more attention to be paid to energy consumption.
Comfortable and sustainable living will continue to grow in importance in 2022. People are increasingly looking for a home that responds to this trend. But, how does this actually work in practice in the property market?
In 2022, it will no longer be enough for a property developer to only offer traditional housing. For example, research by iVOX shows that demand for smart controls within a home is very high. Furthermore, Smart Living offers the ideal total solution in terms of added comfort and energy saving. A final key challenge for developers in 2022, therefore, is to embrace innovation and respond to the changing needs and desires of future buyers.
