…..representing a spectacularly small demographic. Such was my conclusion when reading the results of a report that featured in many of the national papers. According to a survey of potential purchasers by Savills, the thing that people most want is a great view. May I just qualify that this was a survey of 400, (yes, a whole 400!) people who were looking to buy a country house. Aha. Methinks the clue may just be in the title. They are looking to buy a ‘country house’. Does it not follow that a fundamental requirement of the purchase would be a view-of the countryside? Martin Lamb of Savills, commented, “Views are so important that discerning buyers will often visit a property at different times.. they want to make sure that they will be enjoying clear country skies, and not hideous orange glows from town lights.” Understood. But would the same people searching for the ideal country house be so affronted by the “hideous” lights if they were being viewed from One Hyde Park (and the glow of the lights illuminating the Harrods sign?) The list of key features that buyers apparently seek when searching for a property included; land surrounding the property, internal period features, a swimming pool and a cinema. If you have millions to spend, all of the aforementioned could be expected for the price, which incidentally is usually ‘on application’. ‘POA’ is the greatest combat indicator there is that you will be paying the highest level of stamp duty. Would this conclusion hold true for Cwmbran, Pontypool or any conurbation not the location of choice for the affiliates of The Sunday Times Rich List ? The practicalities of life including proximity to the local school, hospital or nearest bus stop may take precedence.
On a not wholly unconnected topic, I was bemused by the reports of the young lady who was caught at Heathrow trying to smuggle 16k inside her Alan Whickers. As someone who is not entirely unfamiliar with lingerie departments and the interior décor of Ann Summers, I have to admit that having purchased various female undergarments over the years, there isn’t enough room in them for the bus fare home. Now if it fell upon me to transfer the monies, there would be enough room for the entire haul from the Brinks Allied heist. That’s got you thinking hasn’t it…
