When it comes to buying a property, whether it is a first home or last, a recent survey of 2000 home buyers by Gocompare Home Insurance revealed these as the top twenty 'Must-Haves' on buyers wish lists. But please read on to find out our view!

TOP 20 PROPERTY 'MUST-HAVE' FEATURES

1. Central heating 82%
2. Double glazing 80%
3. Secure doors and windows 74%
4. A garden 69%
5. A good, reliable broadband connection sufficiently strong to stream films and TV 59%
6. Plenty of electrical sockets 59%
7. Local shops and amenities 58%
8. A driveway or dedicated parking space 53%
9. A reliable, clear mobile phone signal 53%
10. A good energy efficiency rating 52%
11. At least 2 toilets 52%
12. Friendly neighbours 51%
13. A bath tub 50%
14. A shower cubicle 49%
15. Cavity wall insulation 46%
16. A living room big enough for a large, flat screen TV 42%
17. A garage 41%
18. A dining room 40%
19. A landline telephone 39%
20. A new boiler or central heating system 37%

So there you have it.  I get the impression that was a list of twenty things that were put in front of 2000 people who were asked to put them in order.  Energy efficiency number 10 - really?  Since EPC's came in I do not recall having a conversation with any buyer who took more than a passing interest in the energy efficiency of a home.

Price is the most important factor.  Presentation is the next most important and if the presentation is poor then the price needs to be even more realistic.  Yes to broadband and mobile phone signal.  Yes to 'local shops and amenities', but I can't believe that public transport or good schooling are missed off. 'Central heating' and 'Double glazing' at the top of the list!  What percentage of properties doesn't have these now?  It's almost like having 'inside loo' or 'electricity' as one of the questions.  

No. 4 - 'A garden' is not very appropriate if you are looking for a flat.

Final rant - who says 'bath tub'? When was this survey carried out - 1900?

We would love to know your opinion.  Are we being harsh? What is top of your list?

Simon Dee, MRICS - Property expert with over 30 years experience.