WELL Expands Home: Health Pays Back in Workplaces and Residences

The latest IWBI research report, Investing in Health Pays Back, reinforces what many of us see daily: health-focused buildings deliver measurable returns. WELL Certified spaces boost productivity, well-being, and satisfaction—showing nearly 30% higher workplace satisfaction and 26% higher well-being scores, while also reducing absenteeism and healthcare costs.

Health-first design is not just a benefit for people; it strengthens real estate performance and creates powerful economic value.

That same science-based approach is now coming home. IWBI launched the WELL for Residential programme last year, an evidence-based, third-party certification designed for both multifamily residences and single-family homes and first certification results are showcased by IWBI.

Key advantages include:

No preconditions: No requirements are mandatory, which makes for a better fit for your building.

Broad applicability: From single-family houses to large multifamily developments, all homes are eligible.

Streamlined process: Unlike commercial WELL certification, no on-going maintenance reporting is required.

Launched with 25 global pilot participants that have enrolled nearly 30,000 homes and residences, the pilot projects report quicker sales timelines and higher premiums—up to 12.7% more for renovated homes. Early results highlight strong demand: 69% of homeowners now prioritize health more than they did a year ago.

Together, the research and new residential pathway send a clear message: investing in health—whether at work or at home—creates value, resilience, and healthier communities.

Text written by: Kat Mazur (Meehan Green, a KEO Company)