Would you buy a house because of a pub? 40% of Londoners have done just that

We all know that British people love a tipple more than most, but now, we’ve proof that the pub is influencing our decision to buy a new home.

Londoners are particularly enthralled by the quality of boozers available, as a new study has found that 41% of those living in the Big Smoke reported that the local pub impacted their decision to buy their current home.

It’s not just the capital either, as Northern Ireland came in at 34%, while the North West was 29%, the West Midlands 25%, and the North East 25%.

Ever been to view a flat and deliberated about making an offer with your prospective flatmates at the pub afterwards?

You’re in good company, as according to Zoopla’s new findings, 36% of homeowners said they have previously visited a pub either before or after a viewing.

But why? 76% believe it’s because pubs are ‘a reflection of the community’ while 49% believe it’s highly important to find places to socialise locally.

And it’s clear that a pint (or two) can help us to clear our head and make that final decision too, as 53% said that they decided to go ahead with the house purchase while at the pub – clearly inspired to make it their local.

Just how much alcohol does it take to convince prospective homeowners to put in that offer? 2.1 beverages on average, while more than one in 10 (11%) admitted that they’d had four or more – and were thus more likely to channel that spontaneous attitude and bite the bullet.

The study shows that, despite the fact that many pubs in London face the very real threat of closing, pub culture remains strong in the capital.

Over the last year alone, institutions like The Devonshire have gone viral for their ability to pull what is supposedly the ‘best’ Guinness in London, while the tradition of a Sunday pint has retained its appeal even among the younger generations, who are increasingly saying no to a tipple or two.

But just what it is that Londoners value in a pub? Overwhelmingly, it’s a strong alcoholic drink selection (such as craft beers), which 62% chose in first place.

Elsewhere, cleanliness (60%), being family-friendly (56%), and offering a delicious Sunday roast (43%) also came out tops, as well as the provision of cheap drinks (33%). Simmons, anyone?

‘The research shows what a surprisingly strong role the local pub plays in the home-buying process – whether that’s to get a feel for the local community, discuss if you want to put an offer in, or even a as decisive factor in going ahead with a purchase,’ Dan Copley, consumer expert at Zoopla said.

‘With estimates suggesting pubs are closing at a rate of 50 a month, the number of homes close to pubs is set to continue to decrease – potentially benefitting the desirability, and perhaps even value, of homes close to one.’

Meanwhile, Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, argued that being close to a pub is ‘as important as being close to any other local amenity.’

‘A good local offers so much more than just a quality pint; they can boost house prices and are also a sign of real social value in their communities,’ Emma added.

‘Pubs are vital to the lifeblood of our communities and the last thing any new mover wants to see is their local close their doors.

‘We and our Long Live The Local campaign stand ready to help the Government deliver the full support that’s needed for our beloved locals to keep thriving and remaining at the heart of communities.’

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