NEW research released by the National Association of Estate Agents shows that a strong sense of community and a good local pub are least important when assessing the attractiveness of an area in which to buy a residential property.

The research, conducted among NAEA experts across the UK, found that times are definitely changing with good local schools, transport links and local amenities beating pubs, parks and community spirit hands down.

Peter Bolton King, Chief Executive at the NAEA, said: "These findings are, in some ways, a sad reflection on the way times are changing.

"When you consider that for most people their `village' is contained within their mobile phone or email contact list, rather than the local neighbourhood, it's hardly surprising that people don't prioritise the personality of the `physical' community where they live.

"The research clearly demonstrates physical attributes of a home and local area infrastructure are becoming increasingly important."

The research also found that properties with off-street parking and a new or recently fitted kitchen are far more attractive to buyers than those with landscaped gardens or conservatories. Tweet