LIVING within easy reach of good local amenities and in clean and attractive surroundings are the top priorities for buyers looking for a new home in the region in 2017.
These qualities rated of higher importance than living in an area with low crime rate and being close to family and friends, according to new research undertaken by Miller Homes.
As many people turn their thoughts towards buying a new home as spring nears, the leading housebuilder surveyed over 700 adults as part of its ‘Taken Care of’ campaign, with the findings identifying key aspects buyers consider when moving into a new neighbourhood.
Results revealed that 67% of potential buyers currently living in the North East rated good amenities and a clean and attractive environment as the main features they look for, whilst off-road parking and being near to good schools followed.
The top ten factors which North East buyers look for in a new neighbourhood are:
- Good amenities / clean and attractive surroundings (joint first)
- Off-road parking
- Good schools
- Access to transport links / proximity to work (joint fourth)
- Low crime rate
- Average house prices
- Close to family and friends
- A rural aspect
- Well-lit streets and public areas at night
- Close to a major city
Chris Endsor, chief executive at Miller Homes, said: “We know location is key when buying a new property, but it is interesting to find out what additional factors are most important for today’s buyers when they are considering moving into a neighbourhood.
“We all lead busy lives so it’s easy to understand why having local amenities within easy reach is high on the list for house hunters, and unsurprisingly living in a clean and attractive area with a good school and close to family and friends remain among the top priorities for potential buyers.”
Chris added: “When creating new communities we always consider what buyers are looking for and ensure that we do all we can to take care of their needs. At many of our developments we help to improve local transport links in the area and contribute towards amenities which serve those communities, including schools, community centres and leisure facilities.”
For an infographic showing national results and regional insights from the survey visit https://www.millerhomes.co.uk/infographics/neighbourhood.
Miller Homes currently has 10 active North East developments, including Heritage Green in Backworth, Wheatfields in Seaton Delaval, The Acres in Bedlington, Portland Wynd in Blyth, Park View in Gateshead, Scholars Gate in Houghton-le-Spring, Clairville Grange in Middlesbrough, Acklam Woods in Acklam, Wheatlands Chase in Redcar and Hunters Fold in Middleton St George, with developments coming soon including Broadoaks in Bedlington and Barley Meadows in Cramlington.
For more information on Miller Homes visit www.millerhomes.co.uk.