Surge in interest for rural properties following COVID-19 pandemic

Housebuilder Miller Homes has seen an increase in interest for its rural developments across the North East as house hunters begin to reassess where they want to live in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

The news comes after a survey by property website Rightmove found that the desire to live in a countryside location with access to green spaces has increased dramatically during lockdown.

Almost a third of buyers (30 per cent) surveyed said the experience of the last few months had made them want to live in a more rural location, with one in five of those first time buyers.

Miller Homes has developments in rural locations across the North East including Lambton Park in County Durham, Meadow Hill in Throckley and Roman Fields in Corbridge.

During May, visits to the Lambton Park page on the Miller Homes website increase by 21 per cent compared to pre-lockdown.

Separate research from estate agent Savills has change how lockdown has changed what potential buyers are looking for in a new home.

44 per cent of people surveyed said that a separate space to be able to work from home has become more important, while 49 per cent said the size of a garden or outdoor space had become a top priority.

Andrew Somerville, regional sales director for Miller Homes in the North East, said: “We have seen increasing interest in our developments which are in more rural locations as more people see the advantages of having the green spaces of the countryside on their doorstep.

“All of our developments are in locations specifically chosen for their access to local amenities, schools, transport links and employment hubs and it’s evident that the last few months have not only emphasised the importance of being at home but also made many reconsider how they use their space and what they want from their home.

“With the exception of apartments, all of our homes come with their own outdoor space and with properties ranging in size from two to five bedrooms, there are plenty of options for those looking to create the perfect home working environment.”