Every once in a while, we delve into a selection of promising properties ripe for transformation, aimed at those with a passion for renovation. With a focus on tenant and buyer appeal, including prime locations and commuting convenience, each of these properties could be the gem you’ve been looking to polish.
From a three-bedroom property in Boxmoor with planning permission to extend to the creative canvas of a two-bedroom maisonette in London N2 offering loft conversion potential. The demolition-ready bungalow in Kirkby-In-Ashfield invites a bold redevelopment into three new homes, promising lucrative returns while Cambridge presents a classic 1930s semi-detached house situated near key amenities that’s ripe for modernisation. Lastly, a spacious four-bedroom semi in Leeds combines suburban tranquillity with urban appeal. Join us as we take a look inside our five doer-uppers for March.
3 bed corner plot with planning permission Boxmoor – £650,000
Marketed by David Doyle Estate Agents, our first doer-upper is a 3-bedroom detached property located on a corner plot in the village of Boxmoor in Hemel Hempstead. The property, which is on the market for the first time since 1957, is seeking offers in excess of £650,000. This architect-designed gem not only offers dual-aspect reception rooms and an original open fireplace but also comes with planning permission for an extension including a master bedroom with an ensuite and a double carport that will transform it from a 3-bedroom to a 4-bedroom home.
Its prime location, positioned within a community known for its desirable schooling and vibrant local amenities, and close to Hemel Hempstead town centre and mainline station, may interest those looking to invest in a property with significant tenant or buyer appeal.
The property’s generous rear garden, featuring mature fruit trees and a greenhouse, alongside a garage and driveway, amplifies its attractiveness to families or professionals seeking a balance of traditional character and modern functionality. With no upper chain, the opportunity for immediate development may enable investors and developers to swiftly capitalise on the property’s potential.
Two-bedroom maisonette London N2 with loft conversion potential (STPP) – £600,000
For our second renovation property, we have found this two-bedroom maisonette on Sedgemere Avenue, London N2 priced at £600,000 (leasehold). Offering close to 1000 sq. ft of internal accommodation, this property, which requires some updating, has the potential for capital appreciation through refurbishment and possibly a loft conversion, subject to planning permission (STPP). The lease has 60 years remaining so this will need extending at some point in the future.
This first-floor maisonette, which is being sold chain-free and with an annual ground rent of £100, not only comes with its own section of the garden but is also situated in the desirable East Finchley Village area, on a charming tree-lined avenue. The proximity to East Finchley and Finchley Central tube stations ensures excellent connectivity across London, making it attractive to potential renters or buyers working in the city. The local vicinity is enriched with outstanding schools, shops, bars, restaurants and amenities, alongside numerous regular bus routes, enhancing its tenant appeal.
Bungalow with permission to knock down and build 3 detached properties worth £1M+ – £425,000
Our third renovation investment opportunity lies on Bourne Avenue, Kirkby-In-Ashfield, near Mansfield. The site currently hosts a detached bungalow that sits on a very wide plot and comes with planning permission already granted for a significant development project. Investors and developers have the green light to demolish the existing structure and construct three new builds, each with an anticipated value between £325,000 and £350,000. This proposition not only offers a potential high return on investment but also the flexibility to modernise the existing bungalow if preferred, catering to a broad spectrum of development strategies.
Kirkby-In-Ashfield, a town rich in community spirit and local amenities, provides an attractive setting for potential tenants or buyers. With its close proximity to Mansfield, the area benefits from a range of shopping, dining and recreational facilities, alongside excellent transport links to Nottingham and beyond. View the property road frontage here (no 38):
1930s semi ideally located for the Cambridge rental market – £700,000
For our fourth development property, take a look inside this extended 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom,1930s semi-detached house located on Chalmers Rd, Cambridge, CB1, which is ideally positioned for those looking to capitalise on Cambridge’s robust rental and housing market. Offered with no onward chain and sitting on a large corner plot, the property itself requires some modernisation meaning property investors can put their own stamp on it; there is also potential for further residential development (subject to planning permission).
Situated in a sought-after residential area with easy access to major road networks, Cambridge Station and Addenbrooke’s Hospital, the location should appeal to tenants or buyers looking for a property in a central town location. The proximity to local amenities, including shops, cafes and the vibrant cultural and recreational spaces of Cambridge, enhances its tenant appeal.
Well-located four-bed semi in Leeds – £400,000
With a guide price of £400,000 to £425,000, this four-bedroom semi-detached property on Balbec Avenue, Leeds is situated in a sought-after residential location conveniently located with access to local amenities, including shops, parks and excellent commuter transport links, making it highly attractive to potential tenants or buyers looking for a blend of suburban tranquillity and urban convenience.
The property offers spacious living with a lounge featuring a bay window, a dining room leading to a kitchen, four bedrooms, and a fully tiled bathroom, plus additional space on the lower ground floor with two rooms and a WC. The large rear garden provides ample outdoor space for relaxation or entertainment, enhancing its appeal to families or professionals seeking a comfortable living environment. Outside, there is a driveway, garage and a substantial rear garden.
With Leeds being a vibrant city known for its strong educational institutions, thriving job market and rich cultural scene, this property is perfectly positioned to attract a steady demand from renters or buyers looking for quality living spaces in a popular urban setting.
Which one of our doer-uppers is your top pick?
As always, please do your own research when buying properties. This blog is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional investment advice.
