CENTRAL heating, double glazing and a garden are the top three features sought by house-hunters, according to new research.

Comparisons website Gocompare.com asked 2,000 people what they would ideally be looking for in a new property, and the top 20 results make interesting reading for anybody thinking of putting their house up for sale.

The online company found that a warm, cosy and energy-efficient home is a big priority for most of us - with both central heating and double glazing coming out top in terms of desirability.

Many people also cited a new boiler as being high on their wishlist, while friendly neighbours - something money cannot buy - achieved ninth place.

Security is also uppermost in people's minds, and secure doors and windows gained fourth place in the top 20.

Technology is a key factor, with the research suggesting many home buyers will want to make sure their home will accommodate their gadgets and keep them connected to the wider world.

Plenty of electrical sockets was found to be paramount, as was a good mobile phone signal, a decent broadband connection for streaming films, and a living room big enough for a super-sized TV.

There were also quite a few surprises when it came to what didn't make the top 20.

Despite adding character, period features failed to make the list, suggesting some buyers may be willing to trade heritage charm for practicality in their property searches.

Although 65 per cent of people would like a garden, a conservatory failed to make the top 20. Open-plan kitchens and living areas, and homes located near to highly-rated schools, also didn't make the cut.

Matt Sanders, from Gocompare.com Home Insurance, commented: "Buying a home is a major investment and, while most of us will only buy a house if it feels right, our survey should hopefully give those looking to sell their home a steer on what buyers are after.

"We found that many potential buyers are prioritising efficiency, security and connectivity over aesthetic features. This suggests that modern buyers are buying with their heads rather than their hearts and that investing in things like a new boiler, additional electrical sockets or modernising your home’s insulation could be a smarter investment than traditional selling points such as period features or conservatories.

"If you’re not looking to invest further in the property in order to sell, then it’s worth making small changes to the decor when it comes time to sell. Making your home seem warmer, fresher and more secure could have a positive effect on potential buyers. So, even if it’s not to your personal taste, consider opting for earthy warm colours over greys, blacks and metallic colours."

Matt added: "It is surprising to see previous must-haves such as good schools and conservatories fail to make the top 20. However, our research shows that buyers are becoming more financially savvy and are willing to make compromises on the finer details of a property to keep costs down and avoid expensive work in the future."

Here are the top 20 must-haves people want to see in a property, according to Gocompare.com:

1. central heating

2. double glazing

3. a garden

4. secure doors and windows

5. a driveway or dedicated parking space

6. plenty of electrical sockets

7. shops and services nearby

8. a good, reliable broadband connection strong enough to stream TV and films

9. friendly neighbours

10. at least two toilets

11. a bath

12. a good energy efficiency rating

13. a new boiler/central heating system

14. a reliable, clear mobile signal

15. a shower cubicle

16. a garage

17. cavity wall insulation

18. a landline telephone

19. a living room big enough for a large, flat-screen television

20. and finally, a dining room.