Huge surge in number of people wishing to relocate to Yorkshire

House hunting has become hugely popular during lockdown with 17 per cent of us having used the time to look at property websites.

The highest percentages looking to relocate are, somewhat unsurprisingly, those living in the UK’s biggest cities including London, Birmingham, and Manchester, with over 41 per cent of Londoners planning their next move within two years.

According to new research from online mortgage broker Trussle, Cornwall is the most popular destination when it comes to relocation with the highest percentage in the 35-54 year olds age group closely followed by Yorkshire.

Interestingly, younger adults (aged 18-34 years) seem undeterred by big city life with 22% aiming to relocate to London rather than away. The older generation (55+) are the least likely to consider a move at all, with only 12% looking to relocate, instead focusing on sprucing up their current home and garden (34%).

The overwhelming reason for a relocation is to have more space, with over a quarter (27%), citing this as being prompted by lockdown. This is followed by being closer to family (19%), farther away from other people (16%) and the opportunity to have a garden (13%).

The countryside (28%), living by the sea (27%) and being closer to woodlands (16%) are also top of the agenda for house hunters since lockdown has been put in place, as the so-called ‘rural renaissance’ takes hold.

Miles Robinson, Head of Mortgages at Trussle comments, “It comes as no surprise that homeowners and would-be buyers are looking for a different way of life after lockdown. Our research shows that nearly a quarter of adults are hoping to relocate in the next couple of years, and estate agents have seen a big increase in enquiries about out of city locations during the last few weeks.

Many will be considering a move away from the big cities to get more for their money. The lockdown has resulted in a noticeable shift to the desire for more rural living - especially as remote working becomes the norm for many.”