Bristol is teeming with great places to live but some areas of the city have become especially popular among house-hunters in recent years. One neighbourhood was named last week as fastest-moving property market in England, and now a local estate agent and trader have shared their thoughts on why so many people want to move there.
According to Rightmove, Redfield recorded the fastest-moving property market in England last year and it was also recently named the most recommended place for first-time buyers in a recent poll on Bristol Live. But why did this BS5 area clinch the top spot and what is attracting people to the area?
Jon Munden, a property consultant at House + Co Property, said: “Having lived and sold property in the area for over 30 years now it keeps getting better around here. Reductions in mortgage interest rates and more predicted for later this year seem to be boosting buyers’ confidence.
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“The house market in Redfield and around the BS5 postcode in general this year has already started with a lovely feeling of positivity from both sellers and buyers. A lot of our buyers have come here to get better value for their money, after looking and living in South or North Bristol. People that have previously bought houses or flats through us over the last few years like it so much here that they want to stay in the area around friends and families.”
According to the Rightmove research, homes on the market in Redfield found a buyer in an average of 25 days last year. Properties sold for an average price of £320,594, up two per cent on the previous year and even 17 per cent up on the 2021 peak of £273,794.
But it’s not just the property market that is attracting people to the area – Jon explained how the area has a range of great businesses that are enticing people to make the move. And whether you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat or a small independent store selling cool items, there are plenty to choose from.
Jon said: “The increased popularity of different cafes and bars around the Church Road area gives locals a lovely choice of things to do. From stylish food shops like Southville Deli, The Loaf and Faraway Tree to great local takeaways for chips, burgers and kebabs there is a lot of choice now that wasn’t here only a few years ago.
“Old-school pubs like the Pied Horse, Dark Horse or The Stillage have a great cross section of the local community enjoying themselves, but if you want cocktails coupled with one of the best roast dinners in Bristol The Lock Up is outstanding. A stroll around the lake in St George Park to get some fresh air and lovely walks are really close by too. It’s great that house buyers from all over are finding out how great it is to live here as well.”
One independent business on Church Road that has been thriving for a couple of years is The Small City Bookshop, just one of the many businesses that make up the community. Co-owner Christie Cluett also shared her thoughts on what makes the area so attractive to locals and new buyers alike.
She said: “All we can speak for is the independent businesses and the high street. But the area is very strong with independent businesses that are already thriving which will attract other independent businesses here and residents are supporting the businesses, so there’s a very strong sense of community.”
Parks estate agents describe Redfield as a “lively and sought-after neighbourhood”, in a listing for one property that is currently on the market there. They state: “With its array of local amenities, shops, and nearby parks, fostering a sense of community. Residents can enjoy the convenience of urban living while relishing the tranquillity of their home environment.”
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