COVID-19 has affected every aspect of our lives, including what we look for when we buy a house.

Recent research shows how the housing market has changed post lockdown, and the new qualities those on the hunt for a home now prioritise.

In a study of 2,000 UK home hunters, Zoopla found some interesting results.

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Among the many findings, highlights include:

  • Valuing more time spent at home: the majority of buyers and renters want properties with open space e.g. a garden or a balcony so they can exercise at home
  • Conscious of the amount of time they are spending working from home: properties with lower household running costs are more desirable
  • A home with closer proximity to family and friends is now a priority

With this in mind, we have rounded up the most popular properties in Reading available now which have a garden or balcony.

Scroll down to have a read and view our gallery for pictures inside and out of the properties.

1. Four-bed detached house, Tilehurst Road - £449,950

Reading Chronicle:

Located close to Prospect Park and within a short walk of the town centre and Reading West station is this well-presented individual detached period home.

It offers flexible and adaptable accommodation to suit the incoming purchasers needs.

Set back behind a walled frontage with a gated driveway providing generous driveway parking and a detached garage, the property also features the option of a study/bedroom with en suite potential.

Ideally positioned for local bus routes as well as local schools, the property will appeal to purchasers who are seeking excellent transport links as well as access to the town centre.

Find out more here.

2. One-bed, Jeffrey Place, Central Reading - £95,000*

Reading Chronicle:

*£95,000 for a 50 per cent share under the shared ownership scheme*

You can purchase more shares up of up to 100 per cent when the time is right for you.

This flat is described as 'an excellent starter home – offering you all the independence you need.'

It is neutrally finished and recently redecorated.

Find out more here.

3. Two- bed detached house, Tidman Road - £315,000

Reading Chronicle:

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The accommodation consists of a 20 ft open plan living area, two bedrooms, en-suite to master and a family bathroom.

The property also benefits from gas central heating, Juliet balconies, two parking spaces and a private garden.

Find out more here.

4. Two-bed flat, Park View - £67,500

Reading Chronicle:

Offered to the market is this beautifully presented and spacious top floor apartment with stunning dual aspect views over the River Kennet.

The property benefits from having allocated and visitor parking and the property is a 10 minute walk to local amenities including the Riverside and Oracle in the town centre, with shops, bars and restaurants, bus routes to Reading town centre and easy commute to the M4 motorway.

Find out more here.

5. Two-bed flat, Kings Road - £345,000

Reading Chronicle:

This stylish, brand new town centre apartment is perfect for sharers who enjoy entertaining, with its large open plan living area and a private balcony.

It has the feel of a boutique hotel, with its luxury styling, sophisticated entrance lobby, CCTV and residents’ lounge and library.

Find out more here.