Upgrading a property is a reliable strategy for increasing its value. For those seeking a fixer-upper, understanding what to look for during viewings is crucial. “Compare the property with higher-value, renovated properties in the area,” advises Russell Hill, board of management partner at William H Brown, Norwich. “Determine the scope of work: redecoration, kitchen/bathroom renovation, or extension? Accurate budgeting for these costs is essential.” The following properties offer significant potential for improvement and maximizing returns.
Table Content:
- 1. Bungalow with Expansion Potential in Lower Stondon, Bedfordshire (£460,000)
- 2. Edinburgh Villa Ripe for Restoration in Trinity (£540,000+)
- 3. Charming Listed Cottage in Luddington, Warwickshire (£550,000)
- 4. Detached House with Scenic Views in Ermington, Devon (£625,000)
- 5. Former Pub with Development Potential in Braunstone, Rutland (£750,000)
- 6. Period House Ripe for Modernization in Brockley, London (£1.75m)
- 7. Art Deco Gem in Caterham, Surrey (£1.75m+)
- 8. Country Retreat with Outbuilding Potential in Apperley, Gloucestershire (£1.8m)
- 9. Victorian Terrace with Expansion Potential in Chelsea, London (£2.7m)
1. Bungalow with Expansion Potential in Lower Stondon, Bedfordshire (£460,000)
This three-bedroom, semi-detached bungalow presents a compelling opportunity for expansion, potentially mirroring the successful loft conversion of its neighbor. The property already boasts ample space, including three double bedrooms, a spacious living/dining room flowing into a conservatory, a kitchen, and a family bathroom. Situated on a generous plot, it also includes a double garage at the rear. Listed with Taylors.
2. Edinburgh Villa Ripe for Restoration in Trinity (£540,000+)
Investing in this four-bedroom mid-terrace villa offers substantial returns, as comparable renovated properties in the area have sold for over £900,000. Located in a leafy suburb near the city center, this stone-built house features a bay-windowed lounge, dining room, kitchen, conservatory, utility room, shower room, and four bedrooms across three floors. Listed by Connell & Connell via ESPC.
3. Charming Listed Cottage in Luddington, Warwickshire (£550,000)
Grade II-listed Thatched Cottage, situated in a conservation area overlooking the village green, offers a unique opportunity. Dating back to the 1600s or earlier, this four-bedroom cottage retains original features like exposed timber beams and an inglenook fireplace. Modern additions include a utility room, cloakroom, and garage. Updating the kitchen and bathroom would complete the restoration. Listed with Knight Frank.
4. Detached House with Scenic Views in Ermington, Devon (£625,000)
Budlake, a detached house on the edge of a desirable South Hams village, is undergoing renovations. The property features a sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, four bedrooms, bathroom, cloakroom, and a large garden with panoramic valley views. Listed with Marchand Petit.
5. Former Pub with Development Potential in Braunstone, Rutland (£750,000)
This former pub has planning permission for conversion into four houses, each with private gardens and parking. The project involves converting the pub into two houses and constructing two new homes on the grounds. This presents a lucrative opportunity for developers with experience. Contact Moores Estate Agents.
6. Period House Ripe for Modernization in Brockley, London (£1.75m)
This Grade II-listed semi-detached house, on the market for the first time in 50 years, offers a blend of period charm and modernization potential. Spread across four floors, it boasts five bedrooms, three bathrooms, three reception rooms, a kitchen/diner, a roof terrace, and a large garden. There’s also potential for off-street parking or a double garage. Listed with Winkworth.
7. Art Deco Gem in Caterham, Surrey (£1.75m+)
This unique Art Deco home presents an exceptional opportunity to enhance its existing features. The property includes five bedrooms, a kitchen/breakfast room, and spacious entertaining areas overlooking the garden and outdoor pool. Its distinctive architectural features include curved walls, geometric windows, and striking balustrades. Contact Melanie Attwater.
8. Country Retreat with Outbuilding Potential in Apperley, Gloucestershire (£1.8m)
Apperley House, a Grade II-listed seven-bedroom country house, offers both luxurious living and development potential. The beautifully maintained main house allows for immediate enjoyment while focusing on converting the extensive outbuildings, with planning permission granted for the coach house, stables, and barn, along with a new triple garage. Available from Fine & Country.
9. Victorian Terrace with Expansion Potential in Chelsea, London (£2.7m)
This charming Victorian terraced house, ideally located near Knightsbridge and Sloane Square, offers a prime central London location. Featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a double reception room, and a courtyard garden, the property has potential for expansion with mansard roof and side return extensions (subject to planning permission). Listed with Strutt & Parker.
