That’s according to a survey carried out by Galbraith.
They asked 1000 customers about their most desired property features.
And in Dumfries and Galloway the desire to live by the sea was the number one factor specified by potential buyers, with 79 per cent describing a coastal property as their dream.
In second and third place were a good internet connection (77 per cent) and space for a home office (75 per cent), reflecting the continued trend to work from home for at least part of the week.
Fourth on the list is an outbuilding (71 per cent) for cars and hobbies, with buyers citing a wide range of reasons from model railways to vintage tractor collections.
Rounding off the top five is an area of land of up to five acres, demanded by 68 per cent of buyers – often to be used as a pony paddock, or for other hobbies and lifestyle activities.
David Corrie, head of residential sales for Galbraith said: “It’s no surprise that proximity to the coast is top of the list, as our beaches are utterly beautiful without the crowds you often find in other parts of the UK.
“Rockliffe, Sandyhills, Monreith, Brighouse Bay and Carrick Bay are among several of the absolutely stunning coastlines with beautiful views.
“Property in Dumfries and Galloway remains relatively good value for money compared with many other parts of the country and the region offers idyllic coastal and rural scenery, attractive traditional villages and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor pursuits and achieve a better work-life balance.”
In sixth place was the desire to have an annex or separate accommodation, either for extended family or to use as a holiday cottage or long-term let.
However, next on the list were dislikes rather than likes: buyers would prefer not to live too close to neighbours and not on a busy road.
The final two property features voted for by purchasers are a garden room or conservatory and a large kitchen.
Meanwhile, Galbraith reports that supply is now easing within the local property market.
The average time taken to sell in the region is 90 days, although coastal properties typically sell far more quickly.
David Corrie added: “The first quarter of 2022 started quietly, with a shortage of properties on the market delaying sellers from putting their own house on the market as a consequence. In the last month more properties are starting to come to the market which has increased the number of sellers looking to market their own property. We have seen a significant rise in market appraisals in the last month and new instructions have risen quite significantly. The very strong demand from prospective buyers throughout the region remains the key market characteristic.”
