Quite a lot, as it happens. The name of a house can conjure visions of an architectural marvel surrounded by bucolic countryside, a twee cottage in the heart of a village or an imposing building steeped in history. A postcode denotes the prestige (or otherwise) of the neighbourhood in which a property is located, but it's the name that tells the world what sort of house it is.

In the country, house names often reflect architectural integrity. Manor House, Dower House, Farm, Rectory and Court, for example, depict not just the stature, size and heritage of a property, but also its relevance in the local community. The owners of  a Manor House would have once been a Lord and Lady, their home being the most prominent in the village or town. Equally, a Farm would have once belonged to the local land or farm owner. Of course, house names are by no means limited to larger country homes and estates. Properties of all shapes, sizes and age may have a name attached to them.

First impressons count and there's plenty of evidence to suggest that an unappealing house name puts buyers off. It's why developers give their new buildings prestige names like Number One, Paramount and Pinnacle. And it works: Savills recently sold a new country house, which, when its name was changed from a 'farm' to a 'manor', saw an increased level of interest and a buyer come forward.

If you do decide to change the name of your home, the new one should be an accurate reflection of the building's architecture and location with perhaps a nod to its charm or quirkiness. You might want to avoid 'Orchard', 'Meadow' or 'Rose', as these are three most common house names in the UK, according to a Post Office survey. Names inspired by TV programmes are also on the rise which probably rules out Nampara (Poldark), High Clere (Downton Abbey) and Bolton (Game of Thrones).

Once you have settled on a name, you must contact the local council to request a name change. It will consult with Royal Mail, often for an administration fee, to ensure there is no conflict.

If your new name is approved, the council will provide a certificate of renaming and inform the Royal Mail, Land Registry, Electoral Registration, Council Tax and Planning Department. Owners are also advised to contact the Royal Mail themselves, as well as utility and mortgage providers and the emergency services, to inform them of the change.

The following properties are examples of house names that fit the bill perfectly.