According to new research, 82 per cent of British homebuyers said they would love to buy a period property over a new build. And, while this huge chunk had a preference for these elegant homes, most believed they’d probably never be able to afford one.
Period properties have a level of prestige that doesn’t often come with a home built later in the 20th century. They exude affluence and are bursting with character and authenticity — something that’s incredibly desirable for the modern homebuyer.
Original features
A study by Discount Flooring Depot found that 51 per cent of homebuyers are looking for homes with their original features still intact. Everything from fireplaces, hardwood floors to the original bay windows were highlighted as desirable features. The study also found that 26 per cent of people are looking for the classic ceiling decal roses to really add to the authentic feel. Perhaps too many of us want to live like the Bridgertons?
Charm and intrigue
No matter which era a period property was built in, there is always a level of British charm and cultural intrigue that simply cannot be rivalled. As more and more of us look for character properties over the every-house-the-same new-build estates, the demand, and popularity of the remaining period properties increases.
Space and convenience
While new builds still have their own draw, period properties evoke a feeling of family and togetherness. These homes often have high ceilings, spacious rooms, and large attics, which are hugely convenient for the modern family.
Plus, as the properties have been built for highly affluent members of past societies or the workers of traditional British industries, they are often located near to convenient transport links, schools, and amenities.
For those with a little more money to play with, you could easily bag yourself a stunning period property on the outskirts of the suburbs with more outdoor space than you — and the kids — could know what to do with.
Built to last
The modern property industry works to build as many homes in one area for as little as possible. Meaning the materials used aren’t generally made to stand the tests of time. While a family might enjoy a new build and all its newness for perhaps a decade, there will quickly become the need for renovations and rebuilding.
Rather than thin plasterboard walls, period properties use solid brick and strong timber. Rather than small pokey double-glazed windows, older homes often have larger, durable sash windows or vertical panels.
A chance to pair old with new
As for renovation projects, period properties have it all. With character and authenticity already in place, these properties are the perfect place to combine the old with the new. Installing a new modern kitchen or adding Shutters Up shutters to old bay windows, renovators can place a hefty price tag on their ‘doer upper’.
And while interior trends regularly change, the period property structure always stays popular.
We really can’t say enough about why the British homebuyer loves the period property. But if you manage to afford one of your own, you’ll certainly be left with the question of keeping it for yourself or renovating it to make a sweet little profit.
