Being able to pop down to the village pub for a drink has been revealed as one of the main selling points for those looking for a country property, adding up to 10 per cent to the value of the house, according to a survey carried out by The County Homesearch Company...

 The survey showed that proximity to the village pub was top of the list when looking for a country property. Other popular points included a river view, mainline railway station and easy access to a motorway.

Jonathan Haward, Managing Director of the County Homesearch Company, says: “The local pub is often the focal point for the entire community, with well kept beer and decent food a positive draw for property buyers.

A good local pub not only offers an opportunity to socialise but also to source useful contacts, local information and news. Our survey shows that people are prepared to pay more to enjoy this amenity.”

Water frontage ‘highly desirable’

Another factor listed as a strong selling point for a property in the survey of the local County Homesearch directors, was access to a river or a river view.

Jonathan Haward continues: “Rivers remain an important selling point for a property in spite of the recent flooding. Water frontage remains a highly desirable feature.”

Arabella Pappini, the local County Homesearch Company director in London, says: “In London, some residents are completely sold on the idea of being by the river. Many of the waterside properties are among the most expensive in London and will always command a premium.”