As the housing crisis continues to burden Brits with soaring living costs, new data reveals a little-known tip that could save buyers £5,000. Research from Rightmove shows that homes with the number 13 have the lowest average value out of all the numbers from 0 to 100. While the number has a long history of superstition, avoiding it could lead to a better deal on a property.
A history of superstition
The fear surrounding the number 13 is well-documented, with millions of people across the globe dreading Friday the 13th. The superstition is often linked to the Last Supper, where 13 people were in attendance – Jesus and his 12 disciples. Additionally, psychological research suggests that the number is associated with negativity because it is less common in everyday life. For example, there is no 13th month, 13-inch ruler, or 13 o'clock.
Edward Thomson, director at estate agent Strutt and Parker Sloane Street, explains: "If living at number 13 doesn't faze you, it is possible you could find yourself buying against a smaller proportion of the market and therefore do a better deal – but only if you’re lucky of course."
The data speaks for itself
Rightmove surveyed over 10 million properties and found that houses with the number 13 are, on average, £5,333 cheaper. On the other hand, homes with the number one are the most expensive compared to other addresses. Interestingly, other lucky numbers, such as seven, also tend to be pricier on average.
Skipping the number 13
The superstition surrounding the digit 13 is so strong that many housing developers actually skip it when building new estates. In fact, some buildings and hotels, like the Carlton in London, don't have a 13th floor at all.
An added "unique" element
Tim Bannister, property expert at Rightmove, suggests that the number 13 could add a "unique" element to properties and even become a conversation starter with future buyers. So, if superstition doesn't bother you, choosing a house with the number 13 could give you an advantage when it comes to negotiating a better deal.
A gloomy forecast for house prices
In other news, new data predicts that house prices could plummet by as much as 30% in worst-case scenarios. Estate agents Savills forecast a 10% drop next year, followed by a recovery in 2024 as interest rates ease. The number of home sales is also expected to decrease by nearly 200,000 to levels not seen since 2011. First-time buyers and buy-to-let landlords are expected to be hit the hardest, struggling to manage their mortgages alongside the rising cost of living.
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