For those who want to live near the coast yet be able to travel to the city in under an hour, Kent could provide the perfect new home.
In the south east of England, Kent's coastline is home to many blue flag award-winning beaches and stretches to the white cliffs of Dover. It has over 4,000 miles of public rights of way, making it perfect for walking or exploring by bike.
New travel links mean that residents can be in London in less than half an hour due to the new high-speed rail link.
Travel to, from and around the county is assisted by two major motorways and Southeastern railways runs between 90 railway stations, including some in London, which could suit young professionals who want to work in the capital but be able to escape and relax at the weekend. City workers may appreciate the many bars and restaurants in the city.
It is also the closest point to mainland Europe, perfect for travelling abroad.
For families, the county has many activities to keep the children entertained in all weathers, from cheap days out at the family beaches to wild animal parks and Groombridge Place Gardens & Enchanted Forest.
Attractions include Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and the Maritime Heritage Trail, which shows off the region's naval and nautical history.
The Office for National Statistics estimates the population of Kent to be around 1.4 million and over the past 15 years, the number has grown faster than average in the UK.
If you're a first-time buyer and Kent sounds like the ideal escape, one developer could have the right deal for you.
Crest Nicholson has a number of properties under £200,000 in the Wainscott area of the county, available with HomeBuy Direct.
The shared equity scheme means that first-time buyers can be offered an equity loan up to 30 per cent, which is co-funded by the government and the developer.
An added incentive is that the buyer does not pay any interest in the first five years.
Prices start from a two-bedroom apartment for £159,500 to a three-bedroom house for £199,500.

See Also: Property News (6699)
Date Published: 14 December 2009