Rachel Johnston of Stacks Property Search says, “While there's no certainty surrounding how the commuting picture will look in 2021 and beyond, there's a general belief that for many the five days of nine-to-five may be a thing of the past.

“As a result, city dwellers looking to move to the country are re-writing their old commuting requirements as they recognise that flexibility equals freedom and quality of life. And importantly, increasing the radius of search can pay huge financial dividends.

“Commuting, whilst always a burden, has unquestionably become more attractive for many. Whatever happens pandemic-wise, we don't expect to return to the days of ridiculously overcrowded trains and a non-negotiable requirement to be in the office by 8.30am; we think we've seen a fundamental shift in work patterns that will have a sustainable impact. Part-time commuting was previously seen as something for those who have a second home and / or a senior job where you're not expected to turn up at an early hour. It's no longer such an exclusive life choice.

“In the old days, the holy grail of commuting was an hour to central London; areas that allowed homeowners that luxury carried a massive financial premium. Those who now have their days in the office reduced by half or more can effectively double that commute – it's possible to bear a lot more if you have to do it less, and to take advantage of better prices and lifestyle as a result.

“To take these advantages however, you'll have to embark on some deep due diligence and self-reflection.

“To give you an idea of how far you could go, decide first how many hours you're prepared to spend commuting per week. That begins with the length of train journey, but you'll need to include getting to the station, parking to platform time, and the journey at the other end. Divide that by the number of journeys you have to make each week (there and back!)

“Be mathematical about where your new commuting pattern could take you. Start by creating a bespoke map that has your workplace at the centre and radiates out to the geographical extremes of acceptability is a good start. Spend some serious time on thetrainline.com, analysing the fast stops on the train routes and journey times at appropriate times of the day.

“The results may surprise you – there will probably be areas of the country you hadn't previously thought possible. It's not all about time of course, other factors that need to be considered include:

• Price of travel
• Variety of methods available to get to the station
• Ease of parking
• Frequency of trains
• How the travel time is carved up – some people prefer longer on the train so they can work / sleep etc.

“Stretched commuting areas that are potentially undervalued considering the likely rise in demand from commuters from London include East Anglia, the top of Northamptonshire, Rutland, Lincolnshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Dorset, Devon and Somerset, to name a few.

“Don't be tempted to go so far that you dread the prospect of your commute. Temper the grand plans with sense-checking and a good dose of reality. Ideally, the journey will be a pleasant one, with plenty of space to use the time to your advantage, and no sharp elbows required in the car park or when you board the train.

“As far as long-term value is concerned, we are predicting that places offering a sustainable stretched commute will perform exceptionally well against the backdrop of the wider market over the short and medium term.

“Finally, ignore at your peril vital factors such as schools, childcare and Broadband speeds!”

Stacks Property Search, 01594 842880 / www.stacks.co.uk

ENDS

For press information contact Amanda MacCaw, 07977 238175 / amanda@wildmaccaw.co.uk