Homebuyers' ideal house profile revealed in new study

A newly-built detached property located in the countryside is the preferred archetype of new homebuyers in Scotland, England and the rest of the UK, according to the annual Halifax home improvement survey.

Some 63 per cent of respondents stated that environmentally-aware facilities were desirable, while 56 per cent cited fuel and energy saving measures as sought after.

Key features of desirable homes included central heating, off-street parking, a garage and a home security system.

Head of mortgages at Halifax Phil Jenks commented: "Although many of us live in towns or cities, there is no disputing that a house in the country is what the majority of us aspire to."

"The preference for new build detached properties shows that people want their home to be personal to them and that space and privacy is also important," he said.

According to the BBC, data from the Registers of Scotland Executive Agency states that the average house price in Scotland is currently £149,292.