Some seaside places are just right for attracting homebuyers at holiday time. Of course, seaside places always attract higher prices, but a new report shows that in some towns, homebuyers are willing to pay over 20% above the national average for a new property.

Brighton is a case in point, says the report, which shows that the summer season fuels price rises in the area.

Statistics from SmartNewHomes.com, reveal that prices of newly built homes in the Brighton area have soared 17.1% since the beginning of the summer as homebuyers are tempted by the sunshine, beach and holiday atmosphere. This is compared to a national average increase of 2.6% over the same period.

Brighton and its surrounding villages appeal to a wide variety of homebuyers. The town is only one hour’s journey from London and its position by the sea and amongst the South Downs makes it popular with commuters and weekend dwellers looking for an escape from the city.

The nightlife in Brighton is infamous and proves a strong draw for the younger generation and students – 17% of the population are aged between 20 and 29 compared to 12.6% national average.

Over 80% of homebuyers looking for a property in Brighton in June 2004 were searching for an apartment – almost twice as many as the national average. New home builders have responded to these trends with a number of developments and conversions both in the town and surrounding areas.

Grand designs

One major development in the area attracting a lot of interest from homebuyers is CDC2020’s Cape Apartments in the historic village of Rottingdean, less than five miles along the coast from Brighton. With stunning views overlooking both the sea and the South Downs, the development comprises two and three bedroom modern apartments and townhouses within a gated development and is already 40% reserved.

For those wishing to be more central to the activity, GladeDale Homes have redeveloped a Grade-II listed chateau-style building just off Marine Parade in Brighton. The French Apartments have been designed to provide a mix of chic and cosmopolitan apartments and penthouses with sea views and communal gardens.

Beside the seaside

David Bexon, Chief Executive, SmartNewHomes.com comments: “Brighton has always been a popular area but recently interest has soared. New home builders are responding to this need by building a wide variety of schemes. Many people visit in the summer and are attracted by the lifestyle benefits Brighton has to offer.”