FLUCTUATING property prices in Kent are still a major source of concern for those thinking of moving house, according to an independent survey commissioned by Systemline Modular, the in-built multi-room entertainment system.

Nearly three quarters of those questioned admitted they are worried about the uncertainty of house prices, with over 80 per cent believing house prices will rise in the next 12 months.

However, 31 pr cent are still planning to move house in the next two years and intend to spend an average of £243,000 compared with buyers in the Midlands who intend to spend £180,000, and £152,000 for those in the north.

Price came out as the most important driver for house buyers in Kent, with good-sized rooms a close second. More than a quarter felt making a good investment was more important to them than have a decent sized garden.

Sixty-two percent of men questioned believe they are the key decision maker in the house buying process, with just 18% believing it was a joint decision made with their wife – a figure much lower than the national average of 37 per cent.

Just over half those questioned would consider purchasing a newly built property, with men being particularly attracted to the idea because of the lack of maintenance required, while women liked the fact that everything was new and looked smart.

The ability to customise their home to their lifestyle, needs, and budget, by choosing optional additions was also a hit.

The Systemline Modular product is available as an optional extra at newly built developments at Roedean Heights, Tunbridge Wells, and Chandlers Croft, Sittingbourne.

Nearly 79 per cent of those questioned in Kent found the idea of this multi-entertainment system appealing.

Reasons for its appeal were the ability to access audio and video entertainment anywhere in the house by remote control, and even watch and listen to different entertainment in different rooms simultaneously.

Other reasons included the fact that it kept everyone in the family happy and that it eliminated the need for lots of wires or sockets because the amplification is hidden away in the in-ceiling speakers.

Ten percent of men in Kent would like to have a home entertainment system of this kind in their bedrooms.

When asked what they would expect to pay for a Systemline Modular system nearly 50 per cent thought it would cost in excess of £4K for just one room - that's more than six times more expensive than the actual cost of the system.

Priced to make it affordable for every purchaser of a new home, Systemline Modular is available from just £600, with a six-room system costing just £2,500. In addition, the cost can often be added to the mortgage as part of the house purchase price.

The research was undertaken by Continental Research who conducted 320 face-to-face interviews lasting around 20 minutes each. For further information about Systemline Modular please call 01279 501111 or log on to www.systemline.co.uk