Why Your House Number Matters – According To Experts

Do you know why your house number matters? We asked estate agents and numerologists for which numbers to look for – and which ones to avoid

By Lora O’Brien

When you’re hunting for a new home, there are plenty of things on your checklist—location, size, amenities, and of course, the price tag. But what if we told you that something as simple as the number on the door could have a real impact on your decision?

While it may sound a bit like something out of a fortune cookie, numerology is making its way into the property market in a significant way. And, surprisingly, it might be more than just superstition.

Let’s take a look at why your house number matters – and whether the number on your front door might just influence your chances of selling, or even buying.

How To Know Your REAL House Number

Sure, some of us may live at number 3 Main Street. But others are at, say 10032 Main Street. Or, 103 Turner Road, Apartment 4. To know your real street number, if it’s over the number master number 11, add the digits. So, number 12 is 1+2=3. Or number 1073 is actually 1+7+3=19, which is 11. Or 111 Maple Street, apartment 5 would be 1+1+1+5 = 8. You get the idea.

Why 1 and 2 Rule the Market

Among all house numbers, the winners are clear: numbers 1 and 2 are leading the pack in terms of sales.

But here’s the twist: there’s no mystical force behind these numbers. It’s all about practicality. How so? Well, these numbers often appear on corner plots or larger homes, which automatically boosts their appeal and value.

Still, there’s something compelling about the allure of number 1. Numerologist Jane Alton explains that the number 1 embodies a “masculine, focused energy” linked to leadership and new beginnings. Homebuyers drawn to number 1 are often people who enjoy being in control of their space, especially during uncertain times.

On the other hand, number 2 brings a different kind of energy. Alton describes it as the number of harmony and diplomacy—perfect for buyers looking for a more balanced, peaceful living space.

And when you pair the assertive energy of 1 with the calming influence of 2, it creates a dynamic that is both driven and supportive, a balance that many find subconsciously appealing.

This dynamic is not lost on property experts either.

Robin Edwards, a real estate pro, acknowledges that “there’s definitely a leaning toward numbers like 1 and 2.” There’s an inherent perception that number 1 represents exclusivity and premium value. That’sds why luxury developments are often named with this number, such as One Hyde Park or One Mayfair. People are drawn to the idea of “the best” being number 1. And that perception can certainly impact both desirability and pricing.

The Unlucky Numbers: 13 and 4

On the flip side, there are numbers that buyers tend to shy away from.

It’s clear that number 13 carries some negative weight for many in the West. Just think of the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th, for example. But even in Vastu and Indian numerology, some believe a house number marked with 13 can bring bad luck. Superstitious Indians will insist on consulting a Vastu expert to mitigate any potential negative effects

Indeed, Robin Edwards notes that properties with this number often take longer to sell. Even when a buyer does eventually make an offer, there is often a sense of hesitation due to the stigma. Furthermore, research reveals that homes with this number sold for 12.2% less than the market average in 2024. Yikes!

Clearly, there are some societal beliefs that infuse the number 13 with an aura of bad luck. But there’s really no reason for that! For example, in numerology, the number 13 is associated with breaking free from old patterns and embracing new opportunities for personal and professional development. And Feng Shui experts view the number 13 as neutral, without inherent negative energy.

But that being said, for those from Asian cultures, number 4 gets a bad rap. Especially among Japanese or Chinese buyers. That’s because the number 4 sounds remarkably similar to the word for “death” in Mandarin. As a result, developers in East Asia often avoid using it in building floor numbers or house addresses.

The Luckiest Numbers

While 1, 2, and 13 usually dominate the conversation about why your house number matters, there are other numbers that have their own appeal.

According to Michael Ong, a Feng Shui expert, the number 8 is widely recognised as the “prosperity number.” It represents material success, wealth, and good fortune. For people looking to live a financially stable, prosperous life, number 8 could be their lucky charm.

Ong says that in Feng Shui, several house numbers are considered lucky. These include 3, 6, 8, 9, and 11. These numbers are believed to attract positive energy, prosperity, and good fortune.

Here’s a breakdown of why these numbers are considered lucky:

3: Symbolises creativity, communication, and growth.
6: Represents harmony, peace, and domestic happiness.
8: Is all about wealth, abundance, and prosperity.
9: Signifies completion and success.
11: Often regarded as a master number, associated with deep spirituality and well-being.

Number 7 is another favourable number, often associated with spirituality and luck. It’s a number that has long been regarded as one of the luckiest in numerology and is seen as spiritually powerful in many cultures.

Haunted Numbers and Tragic Properties

For some who wonder why your house number matters, know this: it’s not just numerology at play but history. And sometimes, that history is dark.

Consider the infamous No. 112 Ocean Avenue. Though this address featured ‘desirable’ numbers 1 and 2, it was nonetheless home to the notorious Amityville Horror house.

Another house of horrors with 1 in it is 10050 Cielo Drive. Sharon Tate and others were brutally murdered at that address, putting people off the numbers 100, 50, 1 and 5. And speaking of those numbers, consider 50 Berkeley Square in London. This is widely considered to be one of the most haunted homes in the world.

These properties are a prime example of how house numbers can acquire a sinister aura over time, creating a legacy of negative associations.

A Growing Interest in House Numbers

There’s a growing cultural shift happening in real estate, with more people thinking about why your house number matters. In fact, searches related to the meaning of house numbers have increased by a staggering 40% since 2023.

As the housing market becomes more competitive and people seek greater emotional connection with their living spaces, house numbers are no longer seen as random digits. Instead, they are becoming part of a personalisation process.

More specifically, numerology is making its way into mainstream conversations, with buyers actively seeking homes whose numbers align with their aspirations, values, or beliefs.

Whether it’s the leadership energy of number 1, the balance of number 2, or the prosperity of number 8, house numbers are playing a more significant role in the decision-making process than ever before.

Your House Number May Be More Powerful Than You Think

The next time you’re considering purchasing a new home or contemplating a move to a new rental property, consider the number that marks your potential domicile. Whether you’re drawn to the drive and ambition of number 1, the harmony of number 2, or the prosperity of number 8, your house number might just hold more influence than you realise!

While numerology might not be the sole factor in determining a home’s value or appeal, it can certainly play a role in shaping perceptions, desires, and ultimately, decisions.

And in a world where people are increasingly searching for meaning and connection, the number on your front door may offer more than just a way to find your house. It could be guiding you toward your perfect home!

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Lora O'Brien

After graduating in Journalism from the University of Greenwich, Lora worked for Sugar and Healing Lifestyles magazines in London before being hired to write about food for Eluxe. She’s recently become a new mom to baby Lulla, and is writing a blog about the experience. See more about Lora here.