Survey Finds Top 10 Ideal Destinations For Buying a House

New figures have revealed that the average British home buyer values being close to a pub more than a local park.

The survey by Rightmove also found that people were prepared to pay more for good transport links and wanted a detached house with three bedrooms two living rooms and a utility room.

Seaside towns such as St Ives in Cornwall, Poole in Dorset and Brighton were the most popular ideal destinations alongside historic Yorkshire places such as York and Harrogate. Edinburgh, Cardiff, Bristol, Liverpool and Dartmouth were also in the top 10.

Rightmove Director & Housing Market Analyst Miles Shipside said: “Many people choose to holiday by the sea, and given the choice of where to live they would like to make that a permanent arrangement. But it also seems many like the features of a smart town or city, so one near the coast seems the ideal location to live.

“And while we gave people the chance to choose a home fit for royalty, on average they said they would be happy in a more modest home with plenty of space and practical features, instead of rattling around in a massive mansion.  This shows that the perfect home for many is one that they know they could possibly live in one day rather than a pipe dream.”

Expert Opinion

Many people dream of their ideal homes and it is interesting to see what factors people value highly when making their choices. <br/> <br/>“Although the survey is largely a bit of fun, it raises an important point which is that it is up to the buyers to check for themselves that a property is suitable for their needs – as well as the usual checklists regarding the house itself, it is good practice for buyers to consider issues like how close the local school and shops are. People should also make sure the visit their desired property several times and at different times of day so that they can make sure it is definitely the one for them. <br/> <br/>“If you are unsure about what checks you can carry out, your solicitor or estate agent should be able to advise on potential things to look out for.” Helen Hutchison - Partner