PEOPLE iving in bungalows are the nation's happiest homeowners, a survey has found.

Nearly nine in 10 (88%) homeowners living in all property types say they are happy with their current home, according to research from TV property expert Sarah Beeny's estate agent Tepilo.com. Those surveyed said they would need to spend just over £21,000 on their property to feel completely content, however.

People living in bungalows were the most likely to say they are very happy with their property, with 51 per cent agreeing. This was followed by those living in detached properties (41 per cent), semi-detached homes (37 per cent) and flats (34 per cent).

Those living in terraced properties were found to be the least happy, with just one-third (33 per cent) saying they were very happy in their home.

Homeowners generally said they would need to fork out an average £21,376 to make themselves feel completely happy with their property. Fitting a new kitchen and bathroom and creating more storage space were the most common improvements that homeowners said would make them feel happier.

Less costly options to lift the spirits included a comfy sofa, a fire, framed pictures of family and friends, fresh flowers and a deep clean.

The survey of 2,000 people found the factor likely to have the most influence on homeowners' happiness was location, followed by size, garden, layout, parking, natural light, neighbours and running costs.

Sarah Beeny said: "The figure we'd need to spend to make us even happier is fairly high, but new bathrooms and kitchens can really transform a home, so these types of improvements are usually worth the investment required.

"And for those without big budgets available, it's great to see that most people feel happiness can be upped with a big comfy sofa, a fire and pictures of family and friends, all things that are easily achievable, even on a budget."

For more, visit www.tepilo.com/how-happy-is-your-home.