A decent broadband connection is now a ‘must-have’ for property buyers, with many prospective purchasers now ranking it more important than crime levels or transport links.

A new study by broadbanddeals.co.uk has polled a cross-section of more than 2,700 British homebuyers and found that a reliable broadband connection is now the most important characteristic for many homeowners.

The study by the broadband comparison site suggests that the average homebuyer would be willing to offer an extra £6,500 on a property guaranteed to have excellent broadband speed.

When asked what elements would be most likely to deter them from buying a home, the most common answers were revealed as follows:

1.       Poor/slow broadband connections – 88%

2.       Above average levels of crime- 81%

3.       A lack of local transport links/motorway access – 73%

4.       A lack of nightlife/shops – 64%

5.       A lack of local nurseries/schools – 58%

All those taking part that stated poor or slow broadband connections would put them off purchasing property in a particular area were asked to state the reasons behind this, with the vast majority (62%) admitting that they are used to fast connections in their current homes and would struggle with anything less. A further 27% also confessed that they need fast broadband in order to carry out work from home.

Tom Rodgers, spokesperson for broadbanddeals.co.uk, said: “There is no denying how important speedy internet access and a reliable broadband connection are to Britons in 2017.

“Not only are we dependent on it for being able to work remotely from home, we also now stream a large percentage of our home entertainment through the internet.”