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There are many important things to watch out for when you are out house hunting. But is internet connectivity in the top-end of your checklist?

According to a recent UK survey conducted by Connectivity Search, an alarming eight out of 10 estate agents say homebuyers don’t ask them about internet connect.

For most homebuyers, neighbourhood safety, schools, transport links and energy savings are usually seen as the most important considerations.

But our increasing dependence on the internet means that poor quality connections will most likely cause serious disruptions at home.

The problem is that most people take good quality internet speeds for granted and, in Maidstone’s case alone, whizzing through the World Wide Web should not be considered a given in all homes.

“We were shocked by the results,” commented Andy Harris on behalf of Connectivity Search.

“With more and more people working from home, kids demanding hi speed Wi-Fi and so much of our leisure time being spent on tablets and mobiles, we thought it would be one of the main factors when making the biggest investment of your life.”

Connectivity Search is the only independent national Connectivity Report that provides both a report on what is potentially available at a location and therefore allows a comparison of connectivity between properties.

Harris continued: “That’s why we came up with the product; to provide an online platform where customers can complete a connectivity report for their potential new property. We think it’s one of the most important things to consider when moving home.”

With connectivity varying from postcode to postcode, experts from Connectivity Search also went about researching the most ‘connected’ areas in Maidstone.

Those areas were graded using their Connectivity Search Index (A+ being the highest and U being the lowest); by comparing the data from multiple sources and analysing the results.

Once that is done, inconsistencies in advertised broadband connectivity can be discovered and likely service speeds suggested.

A survey of properties in the different areas of Maidstone saw some properties from Barming finish top of the rankings with an A+ for connectivity with the same figures also showing that some properties in Hucking and Wormshill scored a disappointing E.

Fibre broadband is described as the pinnacle of fast internet but for some homes, that could be the equivalent of using a Ferrari to drive to the local shop down the road.

When it comes to things like web browsing, checking emails, posting pictures to Facebook or Instagram or even streaming from BBC iPlayer or Netflix, then an ultrafast connection may not be necessary.

But there are some exceptions. A faster internet connection will be beneficial if others at home use the internet a lot for things like downloading large files, streaming, using Skype or streaming services for TV and video.

Before you move house or to simply to find out just how connected you are, check with Connectivity Search by clicking here and inserting your postcode for just £29.95.