Buying agent PPS names its UK property hotspots for 2016

Jessica Simpson from Private Property Search (PPS), Strutt & Parker’s buying agency, has given her top advice on locations to look out for in the property market during 2016. 

Private Property Search specialises in finding property to suit buyers’ specific requirements across London and all over the southern part of Britain, from Cornwall to Norfolk and Leicestershire to the Isle of Wight.

Hertfordshire

“There are a few hidden gems on the Essex and Hertfordshire border with very good access to London via the A10/ M11 or trains into Kings Cross and Liverpool Street,” says Simpson. “Villages include Barkway, Buckland, Great Chishill and Clavering – where Jamie Oliver's parents own the Cricketers Arms. These places have access to popular market towns of Buntingford to the west and Saffron Walden to the east.”

Check out new homes for sale in Hertfordshire

Example development: Knights Walk in Buntingford (Taylor Wimpey)

Suffolk

“There are big changes happening to the medieval market town of Bury St Edmunds,” observes Simpson. “Already established as a picture-perfect country location with historic cobbled streets and boutique shops, the latest development in the town centre is already attracting a new wave of weekend visitors and with that, an influx of homebuyers. Now is the time to buy before property prices start to climb. Bury and its surrounding Suffolk villages offer buyers the perfect mix of modern amenities and proper old-fashioned unspoilt countryside, all within an hour's drive or quick train journey to Cambridge.”

Check out new homes for sale in Suffolk

Example development: Lambert Grove in Kentford (Bloor Homes) 

Berkshire

The Royal County has double appeal, says Simpson. Its popularity with celebrities is one: “When a big name arrives in an area, people suddenly start talking about it. For example Kintbury, where author Sebastian Faulks lives. He is a well established name in the area and residents like the idea of bumping into him at the corner shop. [It] remains amongst the most sought-after villages in England.” Hungerford, “steeped in tradition with a delightful and attractive traditional high street at its heart”, not only has its fair share of famous residents, it also has a convenient journey time into London for days and nights out.

Check out new homes for sale in Berkshire

Example development: Inglewood in Kintbury (Audley Retirement)