The 5 surprising features increasing Perth property values
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The Wellness Wave in Perth’s Property Market: Why Homes with “Live‑in Zen” Features are Paying Off
In a shifting landscape where health and lifestyle concerns have become central to everyday decision‑making, Perth’s real‑estate scene is experiencing a quiet revolution. A recent feature in Perth Now titled “Live in Zen: Why wellness features pay off” outlines how the integration of health‑centric amenities into residential design is not only enhancing quality of life for buyers but also proving to be a smart investment. The article offers a detailed look at the rise of wellness‑oriented properties, the drivers behind the trend, and how it is reshaping market dynamics in Western Australia’s capital.
1. The Rise of “Live‑in Zen” Properties
The piece opens with a snapshot of a typical Perth neighbourhood transformed by wellness‑oriented homes. From minimalist layouts that maximise natural light to indoor gardens that improve air quality, these homes are built around a single philosophy: living in harmony with one’s body and environment. The article notes that the term “Live‑in Zen” has become shorthand for properties that incorporate a range of features such as:
- Smart home automation – Voice‑controlled lighting, climate systems and energy‑monitoring tools that make everyday tasks effortless while cutting utility costs.
- Home fitness zones – Compact, multi‑use spaces equipped with yoga mats, treadmills, and resistance‑training equipment that allow residents to maintain fitness routines without leaving their house.
- Indoor gardens and biophilic design – Plants and living walls that filter air, reduce stress and even improve mood.
- Quality sleep environments – Sound‑proofing, blackout curtains, and circadian‑aligned lighting that promote better sleep hygiene.
- Air‑filtration and ventilation – HEPA filters, UV‑C sterilisation and smart ventilation that keep indoor air clean, a response to heightened awareness around airborne illnesses.
These features are becoming increasingly common in newly constructed developments, especially in suburbs such as Bayswater, Claremont and Morley, where developers are targeting both young professionals and retirees seeking a healthier lifestyle.
2. Market Drivers Behind the Trend
The article delves into the socioeconomic and cultural forces propelling this shift. A few key drivers include:
2.1. Health‑First Mindset Post‑COVID
“Everyone’s learning that health is wealth,” says Dr. Melissa Cheng, a public‑health researcher quoted in the article. The pandemic has accelerated interest in maintaining personal health, with many people turning to home fitness, mindfulness practices and better nutrition. This heightened focus is reshaping home preferences: buyers are no longer satisfied with a spacious kitchen or a balcony; they want a sanctuary that supports mental and physical well‑being.
2.2. Rising Property Prices and a Desire for Value‑Add Features
Perth’s property market has been on an upward trajectory, with median house prices increasing by 6.2% year‑on‑year as of the latest reports. In a climate of high purchase costs, buyers are seeking homes that deliver long‑term savings. Smart‑home automation and energy‑efficient systems can reduce running costs, while quality sleep environments and indoor air purification can lower health‑related expenses.
2.3. Demographic Shifts
The article points out that Perth’s demographic mix is changing. A larger segment of the population is ageing, and this cohort is prioritising health and comfort. Simultaneously, the city is attracting millennials and Gen‑Z professionals who value convenience, technology and a balanced lifestyle. Thus, developers have had to adapt to cater to a broader spectrum of wellness expectations.
3. Real‑World Examples and Developer Initiatives
The Perth Now feature highlights several projects that exemplify the “Live‑in Zen” ethos. Notable among them is the Eden Ridge development in South Perth, where the builder has partnered with a local biophilic design firm to incorporate indoor gardens and sustainable materials throughout. The project also includes a “Wellness Hub” that offers residents free access to yoga and meditation classes, as well as a community‑wide indoor track.
Another highlighted project is the Greenhaven apartments in Leederville, where each unit boasts a dedicated “home‑office + fitness zone.” The developer notes that the units’ unique layout and amenities have driven demand significantly higher than comparable apartments without these features.
The article quotes developers who report that the inclusion of wellness features can add 8–12% to a property’s resale value. A 2023 survey referenced in the piece, conducted by the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA), confirms that buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes that include at least three key wellness elements.
4. Financial Implications and Return on Investment
From a financial perspective, the article stresses that wellness features can offer a tangible return on investment. While upfront costs for smart‑home systems or indoor gardens may be higher, they can result in lower energy bills and reduced healthcare costs over time. The piece cites a case study of a home in Cottesloe that incorporated a solar‑powered ventilation system and HEPA filtration; the owner reports a 15% reduction in monthly utility costs and a noticeable improvement in overall health and well‑being.
Additionally, the article explains that the growing popularity of “green” and “healthy” homes has led to increased interest from investors. Properties that meet health‑and‑environment standards are often more resilient during economic downturns, as they attract buyers seeking stability and long‑term savings.
5. The Role of Policy and Regulation
The Perth Now feature also touches on how local government policies are encouraging the development of wellness‑oriented homes. The City of Perth’s Sustainable Building Initiative offers incentives such as reduced development charges for projects that achieve a certain level of indoor environmental quality. Moreover, the government’s Green Housing Grant can cover up to 10% of the cost of installing HEPA filtration or solar‑powered ventilation systems.
The article notes that as sustainability becomes a central focus for municipalities worldwide, these policies are likely to expand. This, in turn, will further push developers to integrate wellness features into their designs.
6. A Glimpse Into the Future
Looking ahead, the article speculates on several emerging trends that could shape the next wave of wellness homes:
- Biometric integration – Smart sensors that monitor sleep quality, heart rate and even stress levels, feeding data into a user’s phone for real‑time health insights.
- Modular wellness pods – Compact, movable spaces that can be reconfigured for exercise, meditation or even small‑scale hydroponic gardens.
- Community wellness hubs – Beyond individual units, future developments may feature shared fitness studios, wellness cafés and collaborative gardens, fostering a sense of community while supporting personal health.
Experts quoted in the article believe that these innovations will make wellness a default standard rather than a luxury, eventually leading to a baseline expectation that new homes include at least a basic level of health‑enhancing infrastructure.
Conclusion
The “Live‑in Zen” phenomenon reflected in Perth’s real‑estate market illustrates a profound shift in how we think about home. Beyond the allure of spacious living areas and aesthetic design, modern buyers are prioritising health, comfort and sustainability. Developers, investors and policy makers alike are responding to this demand, creating a virtuous cycle where wellness features not only improve quality of life but also enhance financial value. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that the future of Perth’s housing landscape will be built on a foundation of “Live‑in Zen” principles, ensuring that residents enjoy healthier, happier, and more productive lives within their homes.
Read the Full Perth Now Article at:
[ https://www.perthnow.com.au/lifestyle/real-estate/live-in-zen-why-wellness-features-pay-off-c-19743766 ]