Property: 8 fixer-uppers crying out for attention

It’s that time of year again, when the prospect of bank holidays ahead fills our heads with thoughts of DIY. If putting up shelves and painting isn’t enough of a challenge, how about taking on a fixer-upper? You could be quids in by renovating to add value, but get the property surveyed first to avoid nasty shocks later on, and do the maths to ensure that combined purchase and refurbishment costs don’t exceed the estimated value once it’s complete. All these homes for sale are looking for some love – one of them could be the perfect match.

1. Stamford, Lincolnshire, £335,000

A nice and easy property for a novice developer to start with (stamford)

This stone-built, semi-detached cottage a short walk from the centre of town and The George, an ancient coaching inn. It has an off-street parking space – a rarity in such a central location – and a south-facing courtyard, and would be a great project for a novice renovator as it’s not too big. Entered straight from the street, it consists of a sitting room, kitchen, two double bedrooms and a first-floor bathroom, all looking rather tired. Talk to Norton Rickett if you are interested.

2. Oundle, Northamptonshire, guide price £400,000

Formerly the home of the artist Bernard Kay this could be renovated into a wonderful family home with an annex (bernard kay)

Formerly the home of artist Bernard Kay, this handsome 16th century Grade II listed townhouse incorporates two 19th century cottages at the back, which he used as a studio and could easily be converted into an annex. The main house includes six bedrooms and three reception rooms and period features such as timber beams, an oak-panelled staircase, an inglenook fireplace in the drawing room and a priest hole on the first floor, and has a walled garden and garage. It’s been auctioned on Wednesday 11th May at 6.30pm at The Talbot Hotel, Oundle, by Woodford & Co.

Read more: Six amazing castles for sale in the UK

3. Horton, Swansea, £550,000

This pretty seaside property on sale with Fine and Country needs only a modest amount of work doing to bring it up to date (Fine and Country)

Unless the buyers of this three-bedroom house are fans of swirly carpets and blue bathroom suites they’ll probably be itching to start refurbishment straightaway. However the house has plenty of plus points. The first is the position, as it’s in a pretty village at the most southerly point of the Gower Peninsula, convenient for sandy beaches and coastal walks. In addition, it has large, light-filled rooms, sea views, and a well-established garden. Available through Fine & Country.

4. Maldon, Essex, £700,000

This property dating back to the medieval era once belonged to a wealthy wine merchant. (zoe napier)

Obtaining planning permission can be a major hurdle when renovating a property, particularly when it’s listed, but this one comes with full approval to be transformed into a four/five bedroom home. Located on a good-sized plot in the town centre, it dates back to the 16th century – or possibly earlier – and a medieval hearth, a Jacobean fireplace and extensive 19th century cellars are among the many historical features. Some of the core restoration work has already been completed, though there’s lot’s left to do. Find out more from Zoe Napier.

Read more: 8 wonderful waterside homes

5. Tring, Hertfordshire, £895,000

This mid-century modern home will make a wonderful light-filled family home once it has been updated. (mid century modern)

After being in the same family for 30 years, this detached mid-century modern house is ready to be modernised, remodelled and extended. Sitting in a secluded spot on a leafy private road, it’s moments from the high street and has a large entrance hall, a sunny L-shaped sitting room, a kitchen, utility and cloakroom on the ground floor, with four double bedrooms and two bathroom above. There’s also a double garage and south-facing garden. For sale through Nash Partnership.

6. Southgate, London N14, £1m

This Tudorbethan house in Southgate needs a fair bit of work but will be wonderful once it has been updated. (Southgate)

This time capsule Tudorbethan house is on the market for the first time since it was built in 1926, and has barely changed since then. It comprises three bedrooms, a sitting room, dining room, study, kitchen, pantry, a bathroom and separate WC, and a host of original features including fireplaces, leaded light windows, timber panelling and picture rails. With some money spent on it, it has the potential to be transformed into a comfortable family home. For details, contact Rash & Rash.

7. River House, Kersey, Ipswich, Suffolk, £1.4m

This wonderful historic property dating back to the Tudor era needs some serious work doing. (tudor)

Restoring this Grade II* listed late 15th century house certainly won’t be a quick fix, as it stretches to over 6,000 square feet and features a distinctive tower, a Tudor brick porch, a two-storey rear wing and a rare wall painting depicting Elizabethan figures. As well as the main house there’s a walled garden, a collapsed barn and some outbuildings to consider. Major renovation is required but it is offered with detailed planning permission and listed building consent. Through Winkworth.

8. Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, offers over £1.75m

Until recently this fine building close to Edinbury city centre was used as a care home, but it would make an outstanding family home. (Knight Frank)

Although the exterior of this link-detached house has undergone some work recently, the interior is in need of modernisation. Previously a care home, it’s arranged over three floors and there’s scope for the entire building to be transformed into a substantial and luxurious family home, comprising at least six bedrooms plus generously-sized living and entertaining spaces. It’s in a particularly leafy setting, with a large, south-west facing garden, views across the Royal Botanic Gardens and Inverleith Park close by. Available through Knight Frank.

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