Restless Brits will move house a staggering 12 times in their lifetime, according to new research.

Re-location, rising house prices and relationship break-ups will see us packing up our homes more frequently than ever.

Almost one in five will live in 20 or more homes - including parental and rented properties - with the average adult occupying a house for as little as 17 months before moving again.

The survey, by property website www.buyproperty4less.com, also revealed that the average Brit will move a total of 443.63 miles across the UK in their lifetime.

The average adult has lived in their current home for more than seven-and-a-half years but will also have lived in three rented homes and owned five properties, according to the poll of 2,000 people.

On top of that, we will also live in four different homes with our parents.

Work relocation and promotions were main factors for moving.

But it's relationships that cause most of the moves - 47 per cent said moving in with their partner is the main reason for moving house.

Seven per cent say they have moved because they didn't get on with neighbours.

Despite all the moves, only a quarter of Brits are living in their dream home and even then, they had to move an average of 50 miles to find it.

But once people find their dream home, they stay in it - with 15 years being the longest spell in any one house before they finally settle down.

Damian Qualter, spokesman for www.buyproperty4less.com, said: ''It's surprising to see how frequently people are moving now.

''Years ago people didn't have to re-locate for job opportunities, but now you don't think twice about re-locating to further your career.

''People are realising the potential by investing in property and there is a shortage which is driving prices up.''

TOP TEN REASONS FOR MOVING HOUSE

1. Move in with boyfriend/girlfriend 2. New job 3. Work transfer / promotion 4. Saved up to move elsewhere 5. Finished university 6. Wanted bigger garden 7. Done up the house and moved on 8. Didn't get on with neighbours 9. Rising rent 10. Downsized

-Ends-

For further information, please contact: Libby Cottingham Tel: libby@swns.com Email: libby@swns.com