The relationship between crime and property values is a complex one, and understanding how it plays out in King's Acre, Herefordshire, requires a closer look at the available data. The straightforward answer is that a lower crime rate generally supports higher property values, but the specifics matter.
King's Acre, a built-up area with a population of 1695, presents a compelling case. Its overall crime rate stands at 27.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the United Kingdom’s average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safe environment. Importantly, the area also possesses a strong safety score of 94 out of 100, further reinforcing this perception, compared to a UK average of 79.
However, it’s crucial to examine property crime specifically. King's Acre's property crime rate is 8.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. While lower than the UK average, property crime, which includes burglary, theft, and vandalism, directly impacts the perceived desirability and therefore the value of properties. Areas with higher property crime rates often see a decrease in property values as potential buyers are deterred.
How does this translate to King's Acre? The combination of a low overall crime rate and a high safety score likely contributes positively to property values. The relatively low property crime rate further reinforces this. Potential buyers are likely to view King's Acre as a desirable location, which supports higher prices. However, prospective homeowners should still investigate local crime patterns, even in areas with generally favourable statistics. Checking for any localised increases in crime, or specific types of crime, can provide a more nuanced understanding.
It's important to note that property values are influenced by numerous factors beyond crime rates, including proximity to amenities, schools, transport links, and the overall condition of housing stock. Nevertheless, crime rates remain a significant consideration for many homebuyers and can be a key driver in market sentiment and property valuation.