In spite of the current difficulties being experienced in the wider financial markets, many Britons still have their hearts set on owning their dream house, new research shows.

The Home Sweet Home study carried out by Legal & General reveals that more than 60 per cent of consumers are looking to move into their ideal property. Overall, it appears that consumers are looking to get out of the city and enjoy a slice of country life. One in four (25 per cent) people questioned claimed that their dream home would be located in a village, with 16 per cent expressing a desire to live in the suburbs. In addition, some 20 per cent of those surveyed claim that they would like to live in the country. However, this figure represents a fall from the 32 per cent claiming they wanted a rural property recorded in 2006.

Furthermore the study showed that Cornwall, Surrey, Devon, Yorkshire and the Greater London are the parts of the country which people want to move to the most. Seven per cent of those questioned stated they would like to live in each one of the above counties. However in 2006 Surrey was the most sought-after location for a dream home, with eight per cent of those questioned looking for a property in the southern county.

Consumers looking for an effective way in which to advance on the housing ladder to purchase their dream property might wish to consider obtaining a homeowner loan.

Commenting on the figures, Garry Skelton, marketing director for Legal & General’s general insurance business, said: “The survey would indicate that people are still quite positive about the future housing market given the number of respondents who still wish to live in their dream home. However, probably reflecting financial concerns, the number of Brits who do not expect to ever live in their dream home has risen from just over 20 per cent to 30 per cent since the last survey.”

In addition, research from the firm revealed that significant numbers of consumers are making improvements to their existing homes. The kitchen was identified as being the room which most needs work with 35 per cent of respondents pointing out this part of their house as in greatest need of a revamp. Some 28 per cent, meanwhile, view their bathroom as their biggest priority.

For those consumers looking for a competitive way to fund renovation work to their property, taking out a home improvement loan could be advisable.

There also appears to be a greater desire for environmentally-friendly homes. More than a quarter of people surveyed believe that properties will have a kinder ecological impact in the future.

Whether looking to make improvements to a property to help boost its value or wishing to increase a home’s environmental credentials, consumers might find that taking out a homeowner loan is of assistance. By doing so, borrowers may discover that they are able to carry out work such as kitchen renovations or drywall insulation quickly and effectively. Such a home loan might also be of help to people wanting to improve the security of their property. Recently Legal & General advised consumers to make sure that window and door locks are in a good working order and that sheds are kept secure. Research from the firm also showed that less than one in three consumers own a security alarm, with less than half of these taking the time to make sure that it works.

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