Once-loved homes go under the hammer
SOMETIMES a house goes under the hammer in a state that is so unusual it intrigues most potential buyers and anyone just having a nose around on the online property portals.
Untouched for decades and in a run-down state, many people have an initial thought when they see the condition of some properties – “‘How did it get like this?”
There is a human story behind every home that is down on its luck and needing an urgent refresh. From a vendor with no family to a rental gone wrong, each tale to tell is unique to the property.
The property auctions are usually the best places to come across a run-down, once-loved home – somewhere to find a property where you can add value by bringing it back to modern life.
As many potential buyers are put off by the level of work required, especially novice renovators, the guide price can usually be quite tempting too if you have the experience, knowledge and skill to revive a house that comes with challenges.
The reward is someone’s onceloved home is brought back to life and back into circulation as a modern home to be enjoyed for decades to come.
Searching the online auction catalogues, there are a number of vacant or abandoned houses soon to be sold to find.
Some will need a significant amount of work to be done and, unless you are an experienced developer, should be fully investigated by professionals for the extent of the work required.
Here are two examples:
■ Porth: £36,000
This house proves you never quite know what’s going on behind a closed front door and in the instance of this property it’s not so much as a “frozen in time” scenario but a case of too much stuff added and some stuff missing.
So the house is in need of refurbishment but it is also in need of clearing out.
This house is going to online auction with Auction House South Wales via their website with a guide price of £36,000.
■ Bidding will commence from Monday at noon and end on Wednesday at noon. ■
Cardiff: £149,000
The price might be higher in the capital, but it equates to the rarity of now finding a property in need of a full renovation project in a popular suburb in the north of the city.
The building itself is of brick and stone construction with stone and rendered elevations under a pitched tile roof. Inside, as well dated decor and some possible damp, there are two reception rooms with what’s left of a kitchen at the rear.
■ The auction will take place online on Tuesday at 4pm to preregistered bidders. See Seel & Co’s website for details.