Advice - Purchase/Renovation of old property

Having undertaken a major restoration of a Tudor Merchants House/Cottage and having owned a considerably younger cottage in Essex, but still around 200 years old, my wife and I are experts!!

I would be happy to talk to anyone contemplating the acquisition of an old property before they commit to the purchase.     After purchase, it is probably best left to builders, councils etc to do battle with.

Yes, I made some mistakes due to lack of experience, and we were lucky to get away without any disasters.    The property with which we were involved was just a few years away from major collapse, and we were unaware (blissfully) that we were in physical danger.     After an initial discussion (free of charge), I will be able to gauge if I can be of real assistance to you.    If your proposed acquisition is beyond me, I will cheerfully acknowledge the fact, and point you in the direction of others who can better assist.     If I believe I can offer any useful advice, and you need my time, I will need to make a charge on an hourly basis.

Remember that it is better to invest in someone's advice early on rather than later under distress.     Better to have some idea of what you are taking on, so that you can enjoy the undertaking rather than fear the unknown.

Matters to consider include:-

All the usual points relating to the purchase of a property (estate agents should assist here - be sure you find someone without an axe to grind)

Can you occupy the property during renovation?     If not, where will you live?

Mortgage concerns

etc., etc.

To be completed soon;     return to home page