Fair Oak – What’s To Love?
Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, Fair Oak is a charming village that blends rural tranquillity with convenient access to nearby cities like Winchester and Southampton. Whether you’re looking to settle down with your family, make a savvy property investment, or enjoy a balanced lifestyle surrounded by countryside and amenities, Fair Oak Property has something for everyone. Let’s explore why this vibrant neighbourhood is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners.
Property Types in Fair Oak
Fair Oak offers a diverse range of properties, with three-bedroom homes being the most common, making up 40% of properties in the area, and offering a great balance of space and affordability for families. Four-bedroom properties follow closely at 25%, catering to those needing a little extra room. Two-bedroom homes, which make up 18% of the housing market, are ideal for smaller families or couples, with an average price of £301,000. Five-bedroom homes, though less common at 7%, provide plenty of space for growing families.
In terms of the types of homes in Fair Oak, 43% are detached properties, ideal for families seeking privacy and space. Semi-detached homes represent 33% of the housing market, while terraced homes make up 10%, appealing to first-time buyers. Flats are rare, making Fair Oak predominantly a family-oriented village suitable for established family units.
Property Values and Price Growth
The property market in Fair Oak is steadily growing. As of October 2024, the average house price stands at £313,283, making it an affordable location in Hampshire’s desirable housing market. This is especially noticeable when comparing the average price of a Fair Oak property to those in Chandler’s Ford or North Baddesley, with properties in these areas costing an average of £410,000 and £365,000 respectively as of October.
Two-bedroom homes have an average price of £301,000, while three-bedroom properties average £393,000. Four-bedroom homes are priced around £542,000, and five-bedroom properties are available for £631,000.
Fair Oak has seen a steady 1% price growth over the past year, with a notable 12% increase over the last five years, making it an attractive area for property investors. For those interested in the rental market, three-bedroom homes rent for an average of £1,611 per month, providing a healthy 4.7% yield—great news for buy-to-let investors seeking good returns. However, it seems that Fair Oak is much better suited to families looking to live in the area themselves rather than create buy-to-let opportunities.
Household Composition and Commutes
Fair Oak is home to approximately 9,000 people, with 83% of residents owning their homes and only 17% renting. This reflects the area’s stability and family-friendly nature. Interestingly, most residents in Fair Oak commute slightly further than the national average, with journeys of 6.2 to 12.4 miles being the most common, a testament to the village’s somewhat idyllic and remote setting. As a result, households in Fair Oak tend to have more vehicles, averaging 1.7 per household compared to the national average of 1.2, and tend to be sold with generous driveways.
Furthermore, Fair Oak’s proximity to Southampton and Winchester, both less than 40 minutes away, makes Fair Oak a great location for those who work in these cities but want to enjoy a more rural lifestyle at a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay for inner city living.
Schools in Fair Oak
Families moving to Fair Oak will appreciate the excellent selection of schools. The King’s School, a highly regarded independent Christian school, offers a strong academic environment. For those seeking a comprehensive alternative, Wyvern College is a popular choice. Younger children are well-catered for with Fair Oak Infants and Junior Schools, both local favourites. Parents of toddlers can choose from a variety of preschools, including Footprints, Bright Horizons, Happy Days, and Rainbows.
Things to Do in Fair Oak
Fair Oak offers a range of activities to keep residents of all ages entertained. The East Horton Golf Club, set within 260 acres of beautiful countryside, is a must for golf enthusiasts. In addition to its three superb courses, it offers a stunning 16th-century tithe barn, now a popular venue for weddings and events.
For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Itchen Valley Country Park is just a short drive away. This expansive green space is perfect for long walks, family outings, and nature exploration, complete with a visitor centre and café. Families will also love being close to Marwell Zoo, home to hundreds of exotic and endangered animals, making it a fantastic day out for both kids and adults.
Dining in Fair Oak
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Fair Oak. The Fox & Hounds is a well-loved local gastropub, offering seasonal menus in a cosy setting. For something more casual, the New Clock Inn is a family-friendly Hungry Horse pub, serving hearty British meals and affordable drinks. Those craving something more exotic can visit Kutis Noorani, a popular Indian restaurant known for its authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
Transport Links
One of the many perks of living in Fair Oak is its excellent connectivity. For those who travel frequently, Southampton Airport is just 25 minutes away, offering flights to major UK cities and popular European destinations like Spain, France, and Switzerland.
For shopping, entertainment, and work, Eastleigh is just a 20-minute drive away. Residents looking for a day out in the city can easily access Winchester, just 25 minutes away, or Southampton, a 40-minute drive, both of which offer a wide range of leisure activities, job opportunities, and cultural attractions.
Thinking of Buying or Selling in Fair Oak?
Does Fair Oak sound like the perfect place for you? With its family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful countryside, and strong property market, it’s no wonder so many are choosing to call this Hampshire village home.
At Rowe & Co, we are proud to be your local Fair Oak estate agency and have an in-depth understanding of Fair Oak and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home here, move into a larger property, or sell your current one, we are here to help you achieve your property goals.
If you’re considering buying or selling in Fair Oak, get in touch with our friendly team of local experts today. We’ll guide you every step of the way, ensuring you make the most of everything Fair Oak has to offer.
