Community key factor for buyers as New Homes Week launches

Being part of a community and having friendly neighbours are key factors for home buyers when deciding where to live, according to research from the Home Builders Federation and Rightmove.

Of a study of more than 1,000 consumers from Rightmove’s research panel, 57% of respondents rated having good neighbours as crucial.

HBF said respondents also picked other elements of what creates a strong sense of community. Fifty four percent of respondents highlighted having access to “quality local parks and public spaces”. HBF said this underlined the “need for areas that encourage recreation and social interactions”.

“A sense of safety” was regarded as very or extremely important, at 85% of respondents, with 75% giving “cleanliness and maintenance of the general environment” the same degree of importance.

Rightmove’s research panel also explored what factors determined a good sense of community. Fifty two percent of respondents said access to amenities was extremely or very important. One participant commented that “having shared spaces and local amenities makes a big difference—it’s where relationships are built, and the area starts to feel like home”.

Similarly, panel participants noted “local community events and celebrations” as vital for bringing residents together, “strengthening bonds, and cultivating …