The housing market in Essex has been booming with property prices increasing at an alarming rate.
Your average semi-detached house is now selling for about £347,668, with terraced houses going for £309,746 and detached properties fetching £483,772.
Those who are struggling to afford this - and can put up with a bit of a commute to work - could make their money stretch further with their own island - for less than the cost of a house.
privateislandsonline.com - yes there is a website dedicated to selling islands - has a number of islands which those looking for somewhere cheaper to live can afford.
Here are our six favourites, but browse the gallery above for more:
1. Little Harvest Caye, Belize, Central America
A share in this stunning island could be yours for just £297,337.50. It is advertised as the perfect second home - and it is easy to see why.
2. Long Island, Nova Scotia, Canada
Surprisingly, this 92 acre island is one of the cheapest currently for sale on privateislandsonline.com at £146,290.05. It is undeveloped so has potential, or could just be your own personal wildlife paradise.
3. Echo Island, Nova Scotia , Canada
We had to include this island given its name. For just £99,112.50, it is four times cheaper than a detached house in Essex. It comes complete with a cabin and there is even electricity.
4. Deadman Caye, Belize, Central America
Set just behind the reef in the quiet, turquoise waters, this private island features white sand beach, swaying coconut trees and has solid ground throughout. And at just £197,432.10 it is a bargain!
5. Pink Pearl Island, Caribbean Sea , Nicaragua , Central America
This beautiful one acre island could be yours for just £198,225. The beach is even popular for nesting turtles - and apparently there are no mosquitos. Bonus!
6. Spuhn Island, Alaska
This island is a nature lovers dream! There are bald eagles, orcas, humpback whales, deer and dolphins in your surroundings. The island is for sale in lots, starting at £134,713.71.
Photos and information courtesy of privateislandsonline.com
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