Period Properties

 

Period Properties

Period properties have always been very popular, but demand for them is definitely growing.

 

Although new builds can offer lots of smart technology, the majority of people still prefer a property that has some character, something that most new builds lack.  I’m guessing you already knew that.

 

Like any antiques that you may have safely stored, the value of period properties is also increasing with age. Features such as fireplaces, bespoke flooring and period style windows all go a long a way.

 

Just like a good antique, owning a period property is definitely something to be proud of and a pleasure, however there comes a point where we naturally start to question what it is worth. When it comes to asking this question about your property, it may be because you need somewhere bigger or want to downsize.

Whatever the reason, knowing why your period property is proving so popular is the first step to deciding whether or not your want to hang on to your antique or sell it and enjoy the benefits.

 

 

 

 

What is a period property?

When it comes to defining what a period property is, there are a couple of ways you can look at it.

 

You can go down the route of a very literal definition, which is that period properties are houses built before World War 1.

The location of your home can help you work out whether your property that fits that criteria.  Properties used to be built near city centres, parks etc all areas that were considered prime locations.

 

However, I am sure you thinking there must be a better way to work out if your house is considered a period property, especially considering there are lots of properties that were built after the war that are full of character etc.   You only need to look at the 1920’s and 1930’s when property design was heavily influenced by the arts and craft movement.

 

Certain features can also help identify period properties.  Some of those features include: Fireplaces, large windows, high ceilings, tiled or hardwood floors.  These features are exactly what buyers are looking for when they say they want a period property or a house full of character, and are very much in high demand.

 

What type of period property are you trying to sell?

 

It goes without saying that if you want to sell your home in a quick time and for a good price, you will need to market it properly, and of course the type of period property you have can massively impact this. 

 

Of course, lots of period properties have similar features such as the high ceilings etc, but they are also very individual and unique and have their own history. 

 

To help you understand what can help make your house stand out, here is a quick guide on how to identify what style of period property you house is.

 

Tudor Properties.

 

Tudor properties range in date from 1485 – 1603. Tudor properties were the first to have glass windows, however because it was such a new invention, people often took the windows with them when they moved.   With very distinctive characteristics you will truly feel like you have stepped back in time with a Tudor property.

 

Some of their characteristics Include:

• White painted wattle and daub painted walls.
• Half-timbered
• Steeply-pitched roofs
• Small-paned windows
• Tall narrow doors and windows

People love these properties because they are so rare – due to being over 400 years old.

 

 

 

 

Stuart Properties

 

Stuart properties range in date from 1604 – 1713. Stuart properties marked the change from wooden style builds to brick.  This change was brought about due to the great fire of London which burnt down 13,200 houses.

 

Some of their characteristics Include:

• Symmetrical layout
• Flat-fronted
• Bare brick
• Elaborate fireplaces
• Richly plastered ceilings
• Spacious parlours
• Small rooms at top of the house (previously for servants)

People love them because they were the first English cottage style to appear and the start of a love affair with that style.  They are renowned for their large bare bricks and rustic fireplaces.

 

Georgian Properties

 

Georgian properties range in date from 1714 to 1837. Georgian properties took brick builds to a whole new level.  The term classicism is synonymous with them, and was influenced by wealthy families taking tours of Europe.

 

 Some of their characteristics include:

• Pediment features
• Tiled and hip roof
• Embellished cornices
• Designed with outstanding uniformity

People love them because they are so stylish and imposing.  They stand out from anything else.

 

 

 

 

Victorian Properties

 

Victorian properties range in date from 1837 – 1901. Victorian properties were massively influenced by the industrial revolution.  The rapid growth of industrial towns led to a huge demand for housing.

 

Some of their characteristics include:

• Bay and sash windows
• Stand- out fireplace
• Patterned exterior brickwork
• Original floorboards
• Porches.

People love them because of their size, the huge amount of natural light.  Also, because a lot of Victorian properties are terrace’s they are always a good option for people on a budget.

 

 

 

 

Edwardian Properties

 

Edwardian properties range in date from 1901 – 1910.  Edwardian properties were very popular with the middle class, who wanted their property to stand out. They were also built away from cities and the smoke of the factories and provided larger plots.

 

Some of their characteristics include:

• Large garden size
• Rooms are fewer in number but equal in size
• Big windows
• Simple layout
• Caved veranda

People love them because of the size they are great for entertaining, growing families etc.

 

 

 

 

20^th Century Properties

 

20^TH Century start from 1910.  Most 20^th century period properties encompass a lot of the characteristics we have already mentioned.   However, there is one stand out style that I mentioned right at the beginning and that is the inspiration from the arts and craft movement.

 

 

 

 

 

Is now the right time to sell your period property?

 

There are a number of factors to consider when trying to answer this question.

 

Most importantly – why are you considering moving? For a lot of people, the cost of maintaining a period property is a huge factor. It goes without saying they are stunning and a joy to live in, but their age also means a lot of maintenance and possible repairs are required.

 

Another reason may be, it just isn’t practical or yet another reason might be as simple as needing the money. 

 

Currently house prices are continuing to rise, but as always there is no guarantee that the market will continue to rise.

                    

Of course the main factor in future house prices has yet to show its hand, so if you're are seriously considering selling your period property now may be the right time.

 

Till next time...