NEW research carried out on behalf of Halifax and the House Builders Federation shows that when people think of a brand new home, they think of Posh and Becks, Audis, smart boutiques and holidays in the Seychelles.

The research shows the image and desirability of newly constructed properties has risen to its highest level since 1995. The better image is linked to an improved product, with better specifications and greater choice.

The view is now much more that of a luxury product which has cachet and is associated with aspirational values, such as success and glamour. In the research those surveyed were asked to associate new homes with people, shops, cars and holidays. The responses reflected the view that new-build homes were glamorous, status symbols, well built, stylish, modern and aspirational:

* New homes as people: Posh and Becks, Jamie Oliver, Jamie Rednapp, Catherine Zeta Jones.

* New homes as cars: Jaguar, BMW, Audi, Porsche, Lexus.

* New homes as holidays: Seychelles, Florida, New England, Centre Parcs (modern, clean, everything in its right place).