Privet - keep out
What tops the charts?
The survey by Spicerhaart(the largest independent network of estate agents in the UK) identifies the main features that buyers look for when house hunting. It reveals that the top three features requested by potential buyers is a modern kitchen, large living space and natural light.
- 1. Modern kitchen
- 2. Large living space
- 3. Natural Light
- 4. Storage Space
- 5. Modern bathroom
- 6. Neutral décor
- 7. Original features
- 8. Double glazing
- 9. Open plan
- 10. Security
- 11. High ceiling
- 12. Broadband access
Russell Jervis, managing director of haart estate agents comments: "It is no surprise that natural light is a key aspect that people look for inside a house. Lack of natural light can really negatively impact on the quality of people's lives and make a space look a lot smaller than it is.
Maximise the natural light in your home
"In this current market, sellers need to pull out all the stops to get the highest price for their property and increase their chances to make a successful sale."
"We would always suggest that sellers maximise the natural light in their homes but that does not necessarily require jeopardising your privacy. Trimming an overbearing hedge can make a significant difference and with the introduction of the government's legislation, homeowners now have protection from their local authority to ensure they are not robbed of their natural light quota."
Under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, local authorities have the power to intervene in disputes once a complaint has been made. The authority will decide whether the hedge is stopping someone's reasonable enjoyment of their home or garden, striking a balance between the complainant's and hedge owner's interest. Complaints will only be considered where the hedge is evergreen, over two meters high and blocking out light, access or reasonable enjoyment of neighbours' property.
Further information on the government's legislation to ban overbearing hedges.
