New research from Rightmove and HBF reveals that being part of a community and having friendly neighbours are crucial factors in shaping homebuyers' decisions on where to live.

In a study of over 1,000 consumers from Rightmove’s research panel, the findings revealed that relationships with neighbours, the upkeep of the area, and local parks are key indicators for buyers when purchasing a new home. The findings reflect the importance of creating spaces that not only meet functional needs but also enhance emotional and social wellbeing.

Participants emphasised factors that contribute to a strong sense of community, such as ‘friendly neighbours,’ with 57% of respondents rating it as crucial. Relationships within a neighbourhood help create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, enabling residents to feel connected and valued. Additionally, access to ‘quality local parks and public spaces’ was highlighted by 54% of respondents, underlining the need for areas that encourage recreation and social interactions.

Respondents valued a ‘sense of safety’ and the ‘cleanliness and maintenance of the general environment as very or extremely important (85% and 75%, respectively).

The research panel also looked at what factors are a good indicator of community, with one participant saying, ‘having shared spaces and local amenities makes a big difference—it’s where relationships are built, and the area starts to feel like home.’ 52% of respondents said that access to amenities was extremely or very important. Similarly, ‘local community events and celebrations’ were noted as vital for bringing residents together, strengthening bonds, and cultivating pride in one’s neighbourhood.

These findings follow Rightmove’s latest Happy at Home Index, which surveyed 35,000 people on what factors influenced their overall happiness. The Index revealed that feeling proud of the area one lives in is the number one factor influencing overall happiness. This was complemented by other significant factors, such as a ‘sense of belonging’ and ‘being able to be oneself,’ emphasising the importance for buyers to feel fulfilled in their communities. Recreational activities and access to sports also ranked highly, showing how active and engaged communities contribute to overall contentment.

HBF and Rightmove’s new research also explored how consumers perceive new housing developments and their ability to integrate community-building features that homebuyers value. One respondent noted that newer build communities “offer a stronger sense of community right from the start due to better access to amenities,” highlighting how developers foster immediate connections through shared gardens, parks, and community centres designed to promote interaction and belonging.

This aligns with recent research from the Home Builders Federation, which found that home builders contribute over £50 billion annually to local economies across the UK. By investing more than £630 million in new and improved schools and £200 million in open spaces, developers are actively strengthening the communities they help create.

These insights come as the industry begins New Homes Week’, an annual campaign designed to highlight the benefits of new build homes and provide a platform for the home building industry, homeowners, and potential buyers to recognise the value of fostering community spirit in modern developments. This year the campaign’s theme is ‘Community’ and will take place between Monday 3 to Sunday 9 February 2025.

The research underscores the growing importance of community-centric factors like safety, cleanliness, and neighbourly relationships in the decision-making process of homebuyers, reinforcing the role of developers in creating spaces that nurture both emotional and social well-being.

Alex Slater, Commercial Director at Rightmove commented: “Finding the right place to call home isn’t just about the house itself, it’s about the lifestyle and connections that come with it. There are many emotional factors driving decision-making when it comes to buying a home and it’s clear from our research that thoughtfully designed communities can make a real difference to peoples’ lives. For home-movers looking to buy, visiting new developments early is a great way of seeing how these connections are fostered, and we’re proud to be supporting New Homes Week to highlight all that newly built homes, developers and the communities they serve, have to offer.”

Neil Jefferson, Chief Executive of the Home Builders Federation, commented: ‘These findings highlight how much people value the pride and connection of living in a well-designed community. New build developments are uniquely positioned to offer not just quality homes, but the amenities and shared spaces that bring people together and forge lasting bonds. This New Homes Week we’re proud to demonstrate and celebrate the powerful impact these communities have on enhancing quality of life.’