Bigger kitchens top the agenda of househunting families, according to Beazer Homes’ annual survey into the attitudes of housebuyers. Every family questioned wanted a kitchen which could take a table for family meals, though two-thirds also wanted a separate dining room for entertaining. Children are also increasing their influence with 71% expressing an opinion – usually about the size of their bedroom. But 85% of buyers considered their pets when choosing a home.
Jackson-Stops & Staff has merged with London-based agent Callander Wright. The three Callander Wright offices in Pimlico, Chelsea and Holland Park have been rebranded, taking the number of Jackson Stops London offices to five.
Crest Homes has gained planning permission to build 80 homes on the site of the former Hythe School in Welwyn Garden City. The 3ha (7.5 acre) site has been unused for several years. Crest purchased the site from Hertfordshire council. Prices for the two-, three- and four-bedroom houses are expected to start at £75,000, rising to some £200,000. Building work is planned to start in February .
