Fast internet is top priority for home buyers
A RELIABLE, high speed broadband connection is an increasingly important factor for potential property buyers and renters.
Research released today by the Halifax shows that 20 per cent of UK adults are prepared to pay more for a home with a good broadband connection.
Of those surveyed, 18 per cent said it was a consideration when moving home in the past and 23 per cent would now try to negotiate a lower rent or sale price for a property with a poor broadband connection.
“Alongside outside space, private parking, and good transport links, a strong broadband signal is fast becoming a very significant feature of looking for a new home,” said Craig McKinlay, director of mortgages at Halifax.
Today’s research also shows that a slow internet connection is now the second most annoying thing we can experience in our own home.
A slow connection lost out to noisy neighbours, but finished ahead of a weak mobile phone signal, leaky taps and creaking floorboards.
There was a sharp gender divide, with 21 per cent of men saying good broadband would tempt them to pay more for a property compared with 16 per cent of women.