SCOTS want to live in a detached, three-bedroom house with a view of the sea, somewhere in the countryside.

Ideally, the dream home would be in a village where they could walk to the shops and where everyone knows their neighbours.

But while few expect to live in a mansion, with three-bedroom homes top of the list, most would like some high-end luxuries, such as an Aga in the kitchen and a hot tub on the patio.

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The tastes of Scottish homeoners have been revealed in new research by estate agents Strutt and Parker, who analysed trends in the housing market with a large-scale survey of more than 1,000 customers.

Researchers found that more than half want to live in a detached house, while a third wanted to move to a rural location compared to 25 per cent saying they liked city life.

Cottages are the most popular types of property, followed by new builds, bungalows, farmhouses, seaside retreats and period homes with the majority of buyers aspire to outstanding views of countryside or over water.

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Gardening remains a popular pastime, and dreams of having a little sanctuary outdoors remain strong, with many prospective buyers saying they wanted a small private garden, three times as many as those looking for a large piece of ground to look after.

Meanwhile, a walled garden topped the wishlist, with an orchard and a kitchen garden also receiving votes, reflecting the increasing popularity of “The Good Life” lifestyle.

A hot tub, summer house and swimming pool are popular while tennis courts and tree houses were all things people would like to have access to.

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The biggest factors pushing people to sell are access to better schools (23%); public transport (47%); healthcare (40% and shops (49%).

Proximity to family and friends and close to work were also top of the list, but people were also keen on their access to technology.

Buyers put broadband and mobile phone connectivity among their most desired features, while reasons for moving also included downsizing lifestyle change, personal finances (40%), shrinking household and the arrival of children.

Stephanie McMahon, Head of Research at Strutt & Parker, said: “The UK might seem to be focused on urbanisation but we believe a new, overlooked trend is set to shape Britain’s housing market over the coming decades – the desire to move back to rural.”

“Existing research would suggest cities have the upper hand over villages - by the mid-century there will be approximately 65 million people living in Britain’s cities, compared to just 8 million in rural areas. However, as the urban trend has gathered pace in the UK, a number of negative traits have begun to appear such as a rise in inadequate housing provision, urban sprawl and increased pollution.”

“In our latest research, 21% of respondents who are moving home said they wanted to live in a village. The shift away from cities is being driven by people looking for neighbourhood safety (86%), and space between neighbours (58%), as well as for a strong community feel (48%).”