Here at Chiltern Relocation we have seen an increase in interest from clients keen to find their ideal home. Lockdown One, Lockdown 2 and now Lockdown 3 have taken the toll on many who are now desperate to make the move for more internal and external space to accommodate one or two working from home spaces and the chance to enjoy valuable outdoor space.
A typical client brief pre lockdown would be for a modern house with ample reception space, minimum 4 bedrooms, a manageable garden and maybe a games room/cinema room/gym too. However at the end of 2020 we had noticed that our client requirements and interests are changing.
So what is top of the search criteria now?
Number 1 has to be character properties. In a bold move away from the new builds that offer everything we are seeing a desire for home with a real heart. Clients are seeking a ‘certain feel’ when looking round properties – they want to feel connected to the house and appreciate the beams, the uneven floors, the original flagstone flooring, two staircases, nooks and crannies and walled gardens. Many clients who are coming out of London and are used to high ceiling terraced houses with picture rails and ornate balconies and are keen to replicate the period property feel in new surroundings. Character houses also have their downsides such as increased maintenance, restrictions in terms of extensions and in some cases the obvious issue of low ceilings for tall clients! However, many clients are keen to overlook some of these drawbacks to find somewhere unique.
So are the modern – dare we say – purpose built houses no longer featuring on wish lists? They certainly have their place for families who want ease of living, with clean lines, new kitchens, en-suites to all bedrooms and in some cases the added benefit of a gym or cinema room. These houses will always seduce buyers for their ease of living and ease of maintenance.
Number 2 on the current search requirements is proximity to local walks and pubs. With lockdown having changed the rhythms of so many we are finding that the WFH has meant a shift in living priorities. Clients are no longer anxious for a minimal commute time and are more focused on finding their perfect location from where they will now spend some of the week WFH. At the start of this year commuting times were still at the top of the requirements list – a short walk to the station with a commute of under 30-40mins. But now clients are happy to move a little further from the station meaning a short drive and slightly longer commute is happily considered in order to enjoy local walks and pubs from the doorstep.
Number 3 on the current search requirements is proximity to local amenities. Whilst many desire a more rural life, a character home with a good sized garden and not necessarily within spitting distance of the train station, they do want to have access to supermarkets, High Streets and social amenities. We are seeing a move away from some of the bigger towns towards villages on the outskirts of towns. Inevitably villages which boast character homes and great walks and great pubs!
If you would like help with your move and feel that your priorities have changed then please do get in touch. Tel: 01494 672086. Email: enquiries@chilternrelocation.com or Web: www.chilternrelocation.com
