Recent research has revealed that nearly half of those browsing property on the web have no intention of making a purchase.
According to findings from Strata Homes, 43% of the 2,000 applicants from across the UK stated that they were viewing homes that they felt were out of the price range, with the developer attributing the term ‘dream searchers’ to these applicants.
Of the proportion that browsed homes online with no intention to move, just under two thirds (61%) stated that this was had become an enjoyable pastime, with a third feeling that it encouraged them to work harder in order to obtain that ‘dream home’ in the future.
This kind of property search is being undertaken by over half of people each week, with just under 70% of browsing property online for up to 30 minutes at a time.
Commenting on the findings, Strata Homes highlighted the growing popularity of property searching, potentially reflecting the difficulties of accessing the property ladder.
“Whether it’s staring through an estate agent’s window or browsing the options on Rightmove, we can all recall occasionally indulging in a search for our dream home. However, the latest research suggests this activity might be even more than a national hobby – it’s almost an addiction.
“The majority of us are setting aside hours each month to house-hunt, in many cases for properties that are clearly out of our budget.”
