BOURNEMOUTH has been named as the most in-demand coastal property location, with Poole also taking a top spot, the latest data reveals.

Figures from Rightmove, based on millions of supply, demand and pricing data points across the property market, looked at activity in coastal locations in 2021 compared with 2020.

The analysis showed that Bournemouth was the most in-demand location followed by Poole which was in fifth place.

Average asking prices across the top ten in-demand coastal locations rose six per cent this year, just ahead of the national average rise of five per cent.

This year the speed of the market has meant the time to find a buyer has hit a record low number of days. The average time find a buyer across the whole of 2021 is 44 days, 15 days quicker than the average in 2020.

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Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s director of property data said: “After a year where coastal locations really captured the imagination of British buyers, it’s interesting to reflect on how the overall picture looks at the end of the year.

“Overall, this has been the year that either through changed lifestyle priorities, or the ability to work remotely, living in coastal areas has become possible for more buyers, which is reflected in the data we’re seeing in this study.”

Sean Gibson, head of residential sales at Savills in Canford Cliffs, said: “We have seen a surge in demand for property in and around Bournemouth, which even in ‘normal’ conditions has always been a popular relocation destination.

Bournemouth Echo: Sean Gibson, SavillsSean Gibson, Savills

“Such has been the appetite for those wanting to move to Bournemouth, a number of our properties have attracted multiple offers with many selling above the original guide price. This is something that we have seen across all price levels too.

“While we expect there to be less urgency in the market next year, the likely ongoing shortage of good houses to sell means the high levels of demand for property in Bournemouth and other popular towns and villages in the area looks set to continue.

“With its connectivity to London, excellent schooling, variety of high quality housing stock and access to lots of green space and the coast, Bournemouth has always been – and will continue to be – a popular choice for a wide number of buyers.

“However, setting a realistic asking price from the start will be key to maintaining momentum as we move into the New Year.”

Most in-demand coastal locations 2021

1. Bournemouth, Dorset | £317,449 average asking price

2. Southampton, Hampshire | £249,053  average asking price

3. Brighton, East Sussex | £461,796  average asking price

4. Blackpool, Lancashire | £137,301  average asking price

5. Poole, Dorset | £406,566 average asking price