Homebuyers in the UK searching for community spirit

Permalink: Homebuyers in the UK searching for community spirit
by Kay Murchie

The quarterly housebuyers survey from the Yorkshire Bank has shown that community spirit is alive and well in the UK with 74% stating a good old British neighbourhood watch programme is positive and reassuring.

In spite of homeowners in the UK keen on their privacy, the study shows that when searching for a new home, Britons are still searching for a sense of community and safety.

54% of those questioned who are new to the property ladder said they would spend more on a house in an area with a strong sense of community.

However, less than 18% of those questioned by the Yorkshire Bank wanted to get to know their neighbours better. The study established that those at opposite ends of the age spectrum were more willing to build community and relationships with their neighbours.

21% of those in their 20s wanted to get to know their neighbours better while 67% of homeowners in the over 60s category wanted to live among neighbours they could socialise with.

Gary Lumby of the Yorkshire Bank said having a sense of community is still a very important factor in the buying process and there is a genuine desire for neighbourhood watch programmes and community groups.

However, our research has established that people want the best of both worlds, mixing privacy in their home whilst still holding onto community spirit.

Knowing your neighbour and having plenty of local amenities defines a community, concluded Mr Lumby.