We all want to be beside the countryside: research

Close proximity to the countryside is the most important factor when considering a potential home's location, it has emerged.

New research from Halifax Estate Agents has revealed that, when choosing a new home or plot of land, one in four respondents felt that a close proximity to Britain's green and pleasant land is the most important factor.

Being located close to work is most important for 17 per cent of people while 15 per cent believed being near to transportation links is most crucial.

Gordon Edwards, managing director for Halifax Estate Agents, said: "Location and lifestyle factors are essential in the home buying decision process."

The siting of a property that is near shops, restaurant and coffee bars tops 13 per cent of people's wish lists while nine per cent felt that being close to a good school was vitally important.

Recent research by Cranfield School of Management, on behalf of Halifax, has revealed that parents are willing to pay a premium for a family home that is within distance of a top state school.