Countryside a big lure

Property buyers in the UK would rather have a home in the country than the city, according to a new survey.

Almost three quarters, 72%, of those questioned for the Yorkshire Bank survey are actively seeking to leave the city and buy property in the countryside.

More than half, 59% said the main reason for leaving city life behind was to have a healthier lifestyle, while 32% wanted better schools.

Gary Lumby, Yorkshire Bank head of retail, said potential buyers are savvier than ever and are really doing their homework when it comes to finding the perfect location to buy.

Mr Lumby said that in comparison to the recent trend of buying, improving and moving on, many buyers are now concentrating on finding a home where they can settle long-term, and build a future for themselves and their family.

The poll shows while 27% of those questioned say they like the hustle and bustle of city life; the slower pace of life in the countryside is too much of a temptation.

Younger people don't think you need to work in the city to have a career, with 62% of those in their twenties saying city living isn't vital to progress, while a further 48% aspire to owning both a city crash pad and a country retreat with a view to enjoying the best of both worlds, the survey found.

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