Nearly half of UK homebuyers are moving into neighbourhoods they barely know, with many making life-changing decisions after visiting a new area only once or twice, new research has revealed.
The survey of more than 1,000 recent buyers by The Property DriveBuy found that 47% admitted they were unfamiliar with their new area before moving in.
More than one in five (22%) only set foot in their chosen neighbourhood when viewing properties, while 19% visited just once or twice before making an offer.
The findings suggest that for a growing number of movers, the house itself is driving the decision – not the location. In fact, 37% said they relocated in search of more space or a different type of property, while 24% cited lifestyle changes such as a move to the coast or countryside. A further 19% wanted to be closer to family and friends.
GUIDED BY LISTINGS
But with one in five buyers moving more than 50 miles away, the research raises questions about how people are making such major decisions with such little local knowledge.
Instead of leaning on expertise, most buyers are being guided by online listings.
Some 58% said their choice of location was influenced by search portals such as Rightmove, compared with just 16% who relied on word of mouth and a mere 4% who turned to local estate agents.
WRONG AREA, WRONG CHOICE
Steve Foreman, founder and chief executive of The Property DriveBuy, warns that this reliance on portal-led searches risks funnelling buyers into the wrong areas.
He says: “Relocating more than 50 miles away without really knowing an area can seem crazy to some, but it’s the reality of today’s market.
“The restrictive search functions of traditional portals mean buyers often miss out on homes that would be perfect for them in areas they haven’t even thought to search. When you only visit a new neighbourhood once or twice before buying, it’s easy to overlook the right home altogether.”
PLUGGING THE GAP
While most buyers reported being satisfied with the outcome – with 77% saying they were happier since their move – almost a quarter (23%) admitted they were not.
Foreman argues that geo-location search tools could help plug the gap, allowing buyers to discover listings while travelling through new areas.
He adds: “It means less time wasted, more options uncovered, and a greater chance of finding not just the right house, but the right place to call home.”
