The local market

Even with the market slowdown and falling values, city prices in most areas - particularly the south - have still got some distance to go before they could reasonably be described as affordable. But in Ross. with flats for under £100,000 and four bed houses starting from twice that, you can get great value for money.

Whether you're a first time buyer who doesn't want to be mortgaged to the hilt just to own a tiny apartment or you're thinking of trading your city centre flat for a house, a garden and a view of something other than your neighbour's kitchen, Ross and its surrounding area makes a lot of sense. Houses and country cottages, many with a respectable amount of land attached, can be snapped up at very realistic prices and Ross' unique access to the motorway network means that Gloucester and Hereford are an extremely easy commute, while Birmingham, Bristol and Cardiff are all within an hour's drive. And of course if you work from home, peace and beautiful countryside can make a huge difference to your quality of life.

Local estate agents have reported a sizeable increase in enquiries since the start of the year so there's every reason to believe the local market could soon be on the move again.