Andover estate agents are experiencing huge interest in moving to the area as it has been named as one of the most desirable places to live in Hampshire.

Rightmove has named Andover as its third most popular town in the county, behind only Alton and Hayling Island. 

Searches for homes in Andover are up 83 per cent since November 2019, according to the property site. 

And the news hasn't come as a surprise for town estate agents who have reported "massive interest" from people wishing to move to the area.

Mr Parfitt, sales negotiator for Belvoir Estate and Lettings Agent in Bridge Street, said: “There has certainly been massive interest whether it is people moving out of the city, realising they can get a lot more for their money. Houses have been going faster than you can bring them to market.

“It has been a real mixture of prospective buyers from people who realising they need more space, looking for room for home offices to those from out of the area wanting more value for money or to be closer to family.

In terms of what Andover offers to buyers, Tom said “ideal location in a friendly setting”.

He said: “I think it is definitely attractive because of its accessibility. It is so easy to get everywhere and you still have a friendly little town with the added benefit of being an hour’s drive to London. While we don't have the biggest shopping centre in the world, we do have lots of lovely markets. With more businesses now working remotely, it's freed people up to move elsewhere."

Mr Parfitt continued: "There is definitely a bit of a boom at the moment but the stamp duty holiday didn't stop people buying before it was introduced. Andover is still a reasonably priced place to buy a house, especially in comparison to London. Buyers can get a lot more house for their money."

Richard Rowles, mayor of Andover, said it was strange but nice to hear the town named in Rightmove’s most desirable places to live.

“From my point of view, I was born here so it is odd but nice that Andover has been recognised.

“I welcome this news. Those of us who were born here or who have lived here for a long time realise it is a great town which is why we are still here.

“The research from Rightmove backs up what we already know, Andover is a great place to live.”

Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, also welcomed the news. He said: “I am pleased to read this news from Rightmove. It is easy to take for granted just how much Andover has going for it – including some of the most stunning parks and open spaces and easy access to the countryside.

“Our town is steeped in history, has an amazing range of businesses and facilities and is a fantastic community.

“We’ve recently marked the start of a new era for Andover with the adoption of the masterplan which will completely transform the town centre.

“Andover is on the rise and has an amazing future ahead.”