No price tag on Nature, says County Homesearch

Homeowners have long been paying a premium for the price of a view, however, the Government’s attempt to put a value on nature using the National Ecosystem Assessment suggests that nature itself can be sold, which is a worrying trend, says the County Homesearch Company.

Jonathan Haward, Chairman of The County Homesearch Company, comments: “For many, nature itself is priceless and is not a commodity to be taxed, sold or compared with other sectors of the economy for its monetary value. The Government must be careful for what it uses the National Ecosystem Assessment’s valuations. While I would advocate anything that aims to protect the UK’s natural environment, we do not want a repeat of the national forests sell-off debacle.

“It is well documented that properties with stunning natural views can command a significant price premium, with homebuyers prepared to pay up to 50% more for a home overlooking the sea or the rolling countryside than a comparable property nearby without this outlook. This said, no one owns a view and the valuation of a bluebell wood or a wetland should not come with a price tag.”

For more information, visit: county-homesearch.co.uk

For more information on Defra’s National Ecosystem Assessment announcement on 2nd June 2011, see: defra.gov.uk