Back in 2019, we set ourselves a challenge to find five properties in the UK for sale for £50K or less and were pleasantly surprised to find several in unexpectedly good locations. In the name of science (and being nosy of course), we wanted to revisit that challenge, only this time, with a slightly more generous budget of £100,000. Read on to find out what property gems we found for £100k* or less…
1. 80% finished two-bedroom house, Openshaw, Greater Manchester (North West) – £97,500
Looking for a small project? Look no further than this 80 per cent finished, extended, two-bedroom mid-terrace property on Ackroyd Street in Openshaw, which lies to the east of Manchester’s city centre. The property benefits from a newly refitted kitchen diner, utility room, paved front garden and rear yard leading to a communal garden. It is in a great location for amenities and transport links, being close to shops and schools and within walking distance (a third of a mile) from Gorton Station with direct links to Manchester Piccadilly (just two stops away). There is also a tramline and buses serving the area too. To the west of Openshaw, you’ll find Manchester’s popular university, the National Cycling Centre, Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium and the city centre itself. The property also benefits from being in a popular rental area for families and busy professionals and is being marketed by Edward Mellor Ltd, Droylsden via Rightmove.
2. Three-bedroom ground floor apartment with sea views Ilfracombe, North Devon (South West) – £100k (by auction 10 Feb)
It’s all about location for our second property find, a substantial three-bedroomed apartment situated just 200 yards from the seafront at the historic harbour at Ilfracombe in North Devon. The spacious property boasts a floor area of 98 sq. m (1,055 sq. ft) and comprises three bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom, a family bathroom, lounge and fitted kitchen. The apartment also benefits from off-road communal parking. Ilfracombe is a historic Victorian seaside resort offering a multitude of amenities including shops, schools, a cinema and theatre. There are also a number of visitor attractions within walking distance including Damien Hirst’s controversial Verity Statue situated on the harbour, the award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium, the Tunnels Beaches (hand carved tunnels leading to a sheltered cover with a tidal pool and café/bar) and more. Marketed by Bond Oxborough Phillips, we are sure this apartment will be snapped up at auction on 10 February 2021.
3. Two-bedroom terrace close to local amenities Darlington (North East England) £69,950k
For our third property, we have found this newly listed, attractive Victorian mid-terrace in the market town of Darlington, County Durham. The town boasts excellent transport links being situated next to the A1, which links Edinburgh in the North with London in the South. Darlington mainline station is also on the London to Edinburgh route with frequent services to York, Durham and Newcastle. The stunning Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors are also within easy reach. The house, which has been tastefully decorated retaining many of the original features, is in a good location close to schools, a college and a gym and is within walking distance of the town centre, two railway stations, open fields and the river. Externally there is a south-facing yard with garden and gate to the rear lane. The property is listed on Zoopla by Venture Properties for £69,950k.
4. Two-bed flat close to Aberdeen city centre – Guide price £93-£100K (leasehold)
Described as the ideal property for investors or first-time buyers, this two-bedroom flat on King Street in Aberdeen, Scotland’s third most populous city, has lots of potential. As well as the two generous double bedrooms, there is a fitted kitchen, a large lounge and a bathroom with a modern, white suite. Location wise, the property is within walking distance of Aberdeen’s bustling city centre with shopping centre, restaurant and bars. The city, which is nicknamed ‘Granite City’ because of its dark grey stone buildings, also boasts excellent transport links and local attractions including its stunning coastal walks, museums, unique architecture and a plethora of castles. On the market with Express Estate Agency with a guide price of £93-100K, all interest and offers are invited.
5. Grade II listed landmark with potential for residential conversion – Reading, Berkshire £100,000
We’ve found a fantastic opportunity to buy a piece of history close to Reading city centre with the university, college and a myriad of transport links within walking distance. Take a look at this vacant, Grade II listed two-storey stone carriage arch, currently with B1 office use that has scope for conversion possibly into two or three residential dwellings, subject to the necessary planning consents being granted. Being sold on the instructions of Reading Borough Council and marketed by Romans Read for £100,000 we wonder what this local landmark will become!
With the rules now set to change under the Government’s new ‘Right to Regenerate’ initiative all empty and unused council properties and land may soon be up for grabs. The new scheme will require councils and public sector facilities to sell unused land and assets with the public having first right of refusal to purchase it unless there is a compelling reason not to market it. The Government hopes this initiative will transform the nation’s vacant land and derelict buildings into homes, businesses or community spaces.
According to Zoopla’s latest House Price Index, UK house prices have reached an almost four-year high, with the average home now worth £223,700. However, our research has shown it is still perfectly possible to find a property for £100,000 or less in whatever region you live.
Have you found the perfect investment property for £100,000 or less in your area?
*All prices and property listings correct at the time of writing January 2021
