The annual New Homes Marketing Board/Halifax market research has revealed continued growth in consumer preference for new build housing. Using exit polls from new housing developments and estate agents, 27% of potential purchasers would only consider new build housing. Only 9% would not buy brand new under any circumstances. <p></p><p>All respondents were asked what, in their opinion, was the single most important benefit of buying a brand new home. 28% said a &amp;“clean canvas&amp;” - somewhere where they could stamp their own identity. 21% said low maintenance, followed by the provision of a guarantee and low running costs with 13% and a simplified buying process - no chain - with 12%.</p><p>Focus groups looked at the challenges facing housebuilders, including the provision of affordable housing. Concern primarily focused on the possible implications of affordable housing on resale values. Home owners, perhaps more than ever in the current market of falling share values, treat their homes as nest eggs for the future and worry about the value of their investment.</p><p>Whilst the term &amp;“PPG3&amp;” was unknown to the vast majority of respondents, they were vocal on the implications of living in a PPG3 influenced environment. The hottest topic was undoubtedly the issue of …