Modern country living has changed dramatically over the past couple of decades, with buyers now prioritising simplicity, energy efficiency and low maintenance living above all else. Whether upsizing, downsizing, or leaving city life behind, buyers are increasingly drawn to modernised homes that are inexpensive to run, with practical layouts and manageable outdoor space that doesn’t require constant upkeep.

Across West Sussex and the Hampshire and Surrey borders, demand for village or edge-of-village properties remains strong. Buyers want the perfect balance between countryside privacy and village convenience, in other words, open views combined with access to good schools, gastro pubs, village shops, dog walks, health clubs and reliable Wi-Fi.

We’re seeing this play out in many of the prime villages in the South Downs National Park. Villages that were once considered sleepy rural are becoming far more vibrant as traditional pubs evolve into stylish gastro dining venues with rooms, while new wellness concepts and boutique health clubs opening this summer add to the lifestyle appeal.

We are also seeing a younger generation entering the country market, but they rarely aspire to own large homes with acres to maintain. Instead, they want semi-detached, or smaller detached homes in prime villages. In many cases, these properties are being transformed by talented architects with striking orangery extensions, open-plan living spaces and luxurious principal suites.

This represents a significant shift from the 1990s, when the dream home was usually a grand Georgian house with a swimming pool, tennis court and several acres of land. While still impressive, most buyers today aren’t interested in endless maintenance, with teams of gardeners, cleaners and tradespeople required to keep everything running smoothly.

They still value character and lifestyle, but there is far greater emphasis on comfort, flexibility and homes that are just easier to manage. The modern country home is no longer simply about grandeur; it’s about creating a lifestyle people can genuinely enjoy without too much pressure on their time or bank balance.

We are delighted to announce exchange of contracts on this lovely house in an amazing village close to Midhurst.

The priority for this client was to settle in this wonderful part of the world close to Midhurst, Chichester and Petworth, with access to London which is straight forward from this part of South Downs National Park.

Our thanks go to Russell Grieve and his team in Haslemere for introducing us to this fabulous property.

Property Acquisitions Founder and MD, Jennie Hancock, was invited to share her views with Country Life on buying opportunities in the country homes market and whether now is the best time to buy.

“Buyers are waking up to a rare opportunity to secure a country house at a price that would have seemed pretty remarkable three years ago”, said Jennie. “We’re seeing more family buyers coming in because they’re sensing the bottom of the market approaching and putting long-term plans in motion.”

Where sellers are serious and realistic, good discounts can be achieved across West Sussex, compared to the autumn 2021 peak. Around 10% is common, but in some cases more can be achieved. There is also greater choice than we’ve had in years and less competition, so buyers who are proceedable and decisive are in a strong position.

As Jennie explains, “this feels like a rare moment when long-term value can genuinely be unlocked”.

You can read the full article here.

Spring 2026 is proving to be a busy and competitive time for buyers in and around Chichester. As gardens bloom and homes show at their best, more buyers are actively searching, keen to secure the right property before summer.

One of the most encouraging trends for buyers this spring is that vendors are becoming more realistic about pricing and expectations. This shift has created genuine opportunities, and it’s reflected in the high levels of interest many properties are now attracting.

Homes that are well priced and presented, particularly near Chichester Harbour and in the sought-after villages in the South Downs National Park, are seeing strong competition from multiple interested buyers. This area is renowned for attracting strong interest, whatever the market, when properties become available.

For buyers, preparation is key: having finances in place, knowing priorities, and acting quickly can make all the difference. With vendors more realistic and buyers keen, this spring market is both competitive and full of opportunity.

New research shows that the over-60s own 55 per cent of the UK’s entire property equity, worth a record £3.84 trillion without mortgages. That includes main and second homes, as well as buy to let investments.

In contrast, those under the age of 40 own just 10 per cent, highlighting the extent of the generational divide when it comes to property wealth.

Discussing this topic, Property Acquisitions founder and MD, Jennie Hancock, was quoted in The Times explaining, “Many homeowners remain anchored to peak valuations, convinced they still apply, regardless of the current market level where prices are typically 10 to 20 per cent lower than the pandemic peak. They want to downsize, but the idea of crystallising that loss is very hard to reconcile.”

You can read the full article here if you’re a Times and Sunday Times subscriber.

Our founder and MD, Jennie Hancock, was delighted to be asked by The Times to author a comment piece on one of the biggest issues facing the country homes market – the psychological block facing many downsizer sellers who are struggling to accept the value of their home has fallen.

The over-60s have seen significant house price growth in their lifetime, so it’s no wonder many sellers from that generation overestimate how much their home is worth now.

Many remain anchored to peak valuations, convinced they should still apply, regardless of the current market level which is typically between 10 and 20 per cent lower. They want to downsize, but the idea of crystallising a loss is very difficult to reconcile.

The result is a blockage in the country market, with stock languishing for months and going stale, and high-quality buyers losing patience and walking away.

You can read the full article here if you’re a Times and Sunday Times subscriber.

When it comes to fixtures and fittings, there’s no such thing as a gentleman’s agreement.

Once a purchase is agreed, we strongly recommend attending the property with agents for both sides and fully documenting every item that’s to be included in the purchase, from curtains and blinds, to cookers and white goods – even down to the light fittings.

Our founder and MD, Jennie Hancock, was quoted in The Times discussing this issue, and the questionable behaviour of some sellers who decide to take things with them at the last minute!

You can read the full article here if you’re a Times and Sunday Times subscriber

Increasing numbers of homebuyers in and around West Sussex are starting their property search with one very important companion in mind – their dog.

With miles of rolling countryside, winding footpaths and beautiful coastline to explore, it’s hardly surprising that four-legged family members are playing an increasingly important role in property decisions. For many buyers, it’s not just about the kitchen size or the commute, it’s about the walkies!

Since around 3 million UK households acquired a dog during the pandemic, our furry friends have become even more central to daily life. A dog friendly home isn’t simply a “nice to have” anymore, it’s firmly on the priority list.

Outdoor space is more important than ever. Fully enclosed gardens are a must, particularly for homes backing onto farmland or open countryside. After all, no one wants an unexpected sheep-chasing adventure. Pools and ponds are perfectly welcome provided they are safely fenced to keep both pets and little ones out of mischief.

Inside the home, practicality rules. Utility rooms are having a moment, doubling as paw-washing stations after muddy woodland walks or salty swims at the beach. Some buyers are even looking for built-in dog showers with hot water, dedicated pet areas or cleverly designed feeding stations. Luxury living, canine edition.

Location matters just as much as layout. Quiet roads, scenic walking routes, dog-friendly beaches and welcoming village communities all add serious appeal. Easy access to vets, and dog-friendly cafés or pubs are also on the list. After all, what’s a Sunday stroll without a pub stop that offers water bowls and biscuits at the bar? The Kennels Goodwood even have a yearly dog festival, Goodwoof!

Dogs have always been loyal companions, but today they are influencing lifestyle choices more than ever. For many buyers, finding the perfect country home isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about choosing a place where every member of the family feels at home, paws included. 🐾

This spring, the West Sussex property market is settling into a more balanced phase, creating genuine opportunity for buyers – particularly in the county’s sought-after villages. Increased supply, improved mortgage stability and a sharper focus on value are shaping a market that is calmer, more transparent and easier to navigate.

Across West Sussex villages, from Petworth and Midhurst to smaller South Downs and coastal communities, significantly more homes are now coming to market. With reduced competition and urgency, buyers are able to spend more time assessing setting, scale and long-term suitability – all critical factors in village purchases.

Mortgage rates, while still above historic lows, have eased further in recent months. This has had a positive impact on confidence, particularly for buyers making lifestyle moves into villages where price points are higher and decisions tend to be long term. Greater certainty around borrowing costs is encouraging buyers to re-engage and plan with clarity.

Pricing remains key. Properties that are accurately priced are attracting interest and progressing, while over-ambitious pricing is quickly exposed. This creates scope for informed negotiation and value-led decisions, especially when buyers are advised with detailed local insight.

For those looking to buy in a West Sussex village this spring, whether in the South Downs or along the coast, the current market rewards preparation, patience and expert guidance. With improved choice and more attractive prices, we’re seeing some fantastic opportunities for buyers seeking quality homes in well-established communities.

The start of the year always brings fresh starts, new ideas and unexpected opportunities, and in property that can sometimes lead to the most satisfying outcomes of all.

Right now, I am working with one very specific buyer who is actively looking to move into one of our beautiful villages in PO18 or GU29. This is not a speculative enquiry. They are motivated, ready to proceed and have a budget of up to £2m for the right home.

The buyer is a cash purchaser, offering a level of flexibility that is increasingly rare, whether that’s on timing, completion dates or simply making the process as smooth and straightforward as possible for the right seller. (We are paid by the buyer not the seller!)

What if their perfect house is already here, quietly waiting?

So often, homeowners assume “now isn’t quite the right time”, while buyers assume “nothing suitable ever comes up”.  Every now and then, a simple conversation creates a genuine perfect match, one that works beautifully for both buyer and seller, without pressure or publicity.

This buyer is looking for what our villages do best: character, space, privacy, gardens and a home in a perfect West Sussex village.  Perhaps it’s a house you have loved for years but now you’re starting to think about the next chapter. Or maybe it’s simply a case of if the right buyer comes along….

Well, they just might have!

This year, it might be worth seeing what happens. After all, some of the best property stories begin with a quiet conversation and end with a very happy match indeed.

If you live in PO18 or GU29 and are thinking of selling this year, please get in touch with Jennie Hancock directly on jh@propertyacquisitions.co.uk / 07776 452 128.