• Homes in East Renfrewshire are selling the most above list price over every other area in the UK 
• East Dunbartonshire is second in the rankings, with prices rising at an average of around £34,155 more than they were originally listed for 
• Cambridge is selling homes the third most above list price 

New research has found the UK areas selling homes the most above list price, with East Renfrewshire taking the lead. 

The study by experts at moving platform Getamover.co.uk analysed historical Zoopla data for homes sold at a different amount than the list price. The average sale price, average listing price and the difference between the two were considered to reveal which areas see the most homes above their original list price and how much more on average.  

It found that East Renfrewshire has the highest number of properties sold above the list price in the UK. On average, a home in East Renfrewshire is sold for £272,187, but homes are listed initially at an average price of £235,479. This means that potential buyers who are looking to purchase a house in this area are seeing an average price increase of £36,708. 

East Dunbartonshire takes second place, with the average home in this area selling for £262,979 compared to its £228,824 list price. The average difference between its sale price and what it originally listed is £34,155. 

Cambridge comes third on the list, where homes sell for around £31,662 more than originally listed. The average sale price for a home in Cambridge is £779,219, but houses tend to be listed for around £747,557. 

In fourth place is Edinburgh, with an average selling price of £329,51; homes in this city tend to be listed at £298,887. The price increase tends to leave potential buyers needing an additional £30,627 more than anticipated. 

Completing the top five is East Lothian, where homes tend to be listed on average at around £255,219. Despite the original list prices in the area, homes typically sell for £284,675, which is £29,456 more than the original price range. 

The City of London is seeing houses sold on average at £807,500. However, homes are typically listed at around £849,983, which is a £42,483 reduction in price.  

On the other hand, Manchester is listing houses at £228,138 on average, but the properties on the market are selling at an average of £234,848, which is £6,711 more than the average list price. 

The top 10 areas in the UK where homes are selling the most above list price  

Commenting on the findings, David Burrows, head of Getamover.co.uk,: 

“Buying a home is expensive no matter where in the UK you choose to settle down, but a fantastic investment, this study gives huge insight into the most desired areas of the country and where you might find yourself having to pay rather a lot more than the original list price. 

Typically in the UK, the best time to purchase or sell a property is during spring or summertime. By avoiding the colder winter and autumnal months, the risk of having to move during adverse weather conditions like snow and ice is less likely, making a more seamless completion of the sale and getting you in or out of your new home in no time. 

Interestingly, despite London being the most populated city in the UK, it struggles to sell homes above the original list price compared to similar popular areas such as Manchester and Glasgow, which rank higher in the rankings. House prices are also affected by the seasons. Prices are higher at certain times of the year, often spiking in the summer months, especially July, in comparison to the colder months mainly after the Christmas period. It has been found that there are more buyers in the market in spring and summer which means prices do not need to be discounted.” 

As homeowners consider selling their property, it’s crucial to maximise its value. Neil McKenzie, finance property expert at Halton Stairlifts gives his straightforward, effective strategies to enhance your home’s appeal and increase its market value.

Spruce Up the Exterior

First impressions count. A tidy, attractive exterior can significantly boost your property’s curb appeal. Consider repainting your front door, maintaining the garden, and ensuring the driveway and paths are clean and well-kept. Small efforts like these can make a big difference in how potential buyers perceive your home.

Refresh the Paint

A fresh coat of paint in neutral colours can transform your home, making it appear brighter, bigger, and more inviting. Stick to light, airy colours to help potential buyers envision themselves in the space. This simple update can have a considerable impact on your home’s appeal.

Fix and Repair

Attend to those lingering repair jobs you’ve been putting off. Fixing leaky taps, squeaky doors, and replacing broken tiles can go a long way in showing that your home has been well-maintained. These minor fixes can prevent buyers from being put off by small issues.

Declutter and Clean

A clutter-free and clean home is more appealing and can make rooms appear larger. Take the time to declutter each room, removing personal items and excess furniture. A thorough clean, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, can make your home more attractive to buyers.

Update Lighting

Good lighting can enhance the mood of your home, making it feel warm and welcoming. Replace any outdated fixtures and consider adding lamps to brighten darker corners. Ensuring your home is well-lit for viewings can make a positive impression on potential buyers.

Invest in Key Upgrades

If your budget allows, investing in key upgrades, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, can significantly increase your property’s value. Even small changes, like replacing cabinet handles or upgrading fixtures, can modernise these spaces without a full renovation.

Energy Efficiency Improvements

Making your home more energy-efficient is not only good for the environment but also appealing to buyers. Simple changes like sealing windows, adding insulation, or upgrading to a more efficient boiler can improve your home’s energy rating and appeal.

Obtain Planning Permission

If you have potential for extending or converting space in your home, obtaining planning permission in advance can add value. It saves potential buyers the hassle and uncertainty, making your property more attractive.

Stage Your Home

Finally, consider staging your home for viewings. This doesn’t necessarily mean hiring a professional stager, but arranging furniture to maximise space and showcase your home’s best features can make a significant difference. Ensure each room has a clear purpose and is presented in the best possible light.

Finance property expert from Halton Stairlifts, Neil McKenzie says: 

In conclusion, while the specific value added to your property from making improvements can vary, a well-considered combination of the enhancements outlined could, on average, contribute to an increase in your property’s value by up to 10-15%. This estimate takes into account both minor and major upgrades, from cosmetic touch-ups like painting and decluttering to more significant investments like kitchen renovations and energy efficiency improvements.

Remember, the key to maximising your return on investment is to focus on changes that enhance the appeal and functionality of your home, align with current buyer preferences, and are cost-effective relative to the expected increase in property value. Consulting with a local estate agent can also provide personalised advice tailored to your property and the local market, ensuring you invest your time and money wisely.

By thoughtfully applying these simple tips, you’re not just improving your home; you’re investing in its future saleability and potential to attract higher offers, making your next step on the property ladder that much easier.

• Homes in East Renfrewshire are selling the most above list price over every other area in the UK 
• East Dunbartonshire is second in the rankings, with prices rising at an average of around £34,155 more than they were originally listed for 
• Cambridge is selling homes the third most above list price 

New research has found the UK areas selling homes the most above list price, with East Renfrewshire taking the lead. 

The study by experts at moving platform Getamover.co.uk analysed historical Zoopla data for homes sold at a different amount than the list price. The average sale price, average listing price and the difference between the two were considered to reveal which areas see the most homes above their original list price and how much more on average.  

It found that East Renfrewshire has the highest number of properties sold above the list price in the UK. On average, a home in East Renfrewshire is sold for £272,187, but homes are listed initially at an average price of £235,479. This means that potential buyers who are looking to purchase a house in this area are seeing an average price increase of £36,708. 

East Dunbartonshire takes second place, with the average home in this area selling for £262,979 compared to its £228,824 list price. The average difference between its sale price and what it originally listed is £34,155. 

Cambridge comes third on the list, where homes sell for around £31,662 more than originally listed. The average sale price for a home in Cambridge is £779,219, but houses tend to be listed for around £747,557. 

In fourth place is Edinburgh, with an average selling price of £329,51; homes in this city tend to be listed at £298,887. The price increase tends to leave potential buyers needing an additional £30,627 more than anticipated. 

Completing the top five is East Lothian, where homes tend to be listed on average at around £255,219. Despite the original list prices in the area, homes typically sell for £284,675, which is £29,456 more than the original price range. 

The City of London is seeing houses sold on average at £807,500. However, homes are typically listed at around £849,983, which is a £42,483 reduction in price.  

On the other hand, Manchester is listing houses at £228,138 on average, but the properties on the market are selling at an average of £234,848, which is £6,711 more than the average list price. 

The top 10 areas in the UK where homes are selling the most above list price  

*Please contact for the full table. 

Commenting on the findings, David Burrows, head of Getamover.co.uk,: 

“Buying a home is expensive no matter where in the UK you choose to settle down, but a fantastic investment, this study gives huge insight into the most desired areas of the country and where you might find yourself having to pay rather a lot more than the original list price. 

Typically in the UK, the best time to purchase or sell a property is during spring or summertime. By avoiding the colder winter and autumnal months, the risk of having to move during adverse weather conditions like snow and ice is less likely, making a more seamless completion of the sale and getting you in or out of your new home in no time. 

Interestingly, despite London being the most populated city in the UK, it struggles to sell homes above the original list price compared to similar popular areas such as Manchester and Glasgow, which rank higher in the rankings. House prices are also affected by the seasons. Prices are higher at certain times of the year, often spiking in the summer months, especially July, in comparison to the colder months mainly after the Christmas period. It has been found that there are more buyers in the market in spring and summer which means prices do not need to be discounted.” 

A prominent development site in a sought-after area of Birmingham is available for sale with commercial agents Bond Wolfe, with an asking price of £1.35 million.

The site at Cornerways, 1 Hagley Road West, has planning permission for eight two-bedroomed apartments in addition to an existing block of four maisonettes.

James Mattin, managing director of Bond Wolfe, explained that the site currently comprises a two-storey building of four two-bedroomed maisonettes.

A stand-alone garage block has already been demolished under the approved planning permission in readiness for development.

Mr Mattin said: “Set back from the main Hagley Road West, there is land to the side of the existing block which allows for development of a three story block of eight new build two-bedroom apartments with associated car parking.”

The consented plans would form  5,896 sq ft of new-build development.

The site is at the junction of Hagley Road West and Lordswood Road on the southwestern periphery of Birmingham.

Mr Mattin said: “This is an excellent development opportunity in a prime and prominent position, approximately four miles west of Birmingham city centre and one mile north of the centre of Harborne.”

The site occupies the corner plot of a significant junction along Hagley Road West and the surrounding area predominantly comprises of detached dwellings situated on generous plots of land.

An area of open parkland separates the site from a denser arrangement of terraced housing to the north.

Hagley Road is a principal arterial route leading from Birmingham city centre and to the M5 motorway, which is three miles to the west of the site.

Those interested in this prime development project can find more details at https://cdn.eigpropertyauctions.co.uk/ams/images/489/auction/0/c9953a1a-27cb-4f92-af56-cc21d04427cb or contact James Mattin on 0121 524 1172 or at jmattin@bondwolfe.com.

A traditional Galloway farmhouse and recently converted Cheese Loft, with dramatic coastal views across the Irish Sea, has been brought to the open market through leading property consultants Galbraith.

Situated in a rural area of natural beauty on the South West of the Rhins of Galloway peninsula, Slockmill Farmhouse and Cheese Loft sits approximately 4.2 miles from the village of Drummore and 6.9 miles from Scotland’s most southerly point, the Mull of Galloway. 

The property was previously the family home for Slockmill Farm and over time, the land has been sold off and the property converted to a holiday let. In recent years, the adjoining cheese loft, formerly used to store cheese made on the farm when it was still in production, has been extensively renovated and refurbished to form an additional one-bedroom residential dwelling.

Slockmill Farmhouse presents well-proportioned accommodation with two reception rooms and four bedrooms. Stunning coastal views can be enjoyed from the sitting room and three of the four bedrooms. There is an Aga in the dining room providing additional cooking facilities and extra warmth and spacious sitting room benefits from an open fire and has two windows enjoying views of the garden and coastline beyond. The outside area includes a hot tub, situated in the garden adjacent to the patio and a detached garage.

The Cheese Loft has been completely refurbished throughout to form a cosy one-bedroom accommodation, benefitting from renewable energy provided by 4kw solar panels situated on the new roof with 9.8kw storage batteries, housed in the cloakroom. This provides electricity to both the Cheese Loft and farmhouse. The triple aspect open plan kitchen/dining/living area has a multi-fuel stove allowing the living area to be a cosy space to sit and relax, and there is a door opening out directly to the patio.

Sheena Ramsay, Handling the sale for Galbraith, said: “Slockmill Farmhouse and Cheese Loft presents and exciting opportunity for those seeking a lifestyle property combining a holiday let business with rural living in a truly stunning part of Dumfries and Galloway. The current owners live in the cheese loft and let out the farmhouse, however this could be reversed. Alternatively, the cheese loft could be used as extra living space to provide additional accommodation for multi-generational living.”

The farmhouse garden is predominantly a low maintenance garden and primarily laid to lawn, with an area of gravel around the patio and hot tub, enclosed by a dry-stone wall. Part of the garden has been designated to the Cheese Loft, which is an extension of the main garden and with a patio to the side of the property.

Drummore is the most southerly village in Scotland, a quiet coastal village with a shop & post office, primary school, church, doctor’s surgery (Mull of Galloway Medical Practice), café and two hotels with restaurants, a bowling club and direct access to the beach. Fishing boats still go out from the harbour and leisure boats frequent Luce Bay. Logan Botanic Gardens, Scotland’s most exotic gardens is approximately nine miles north of the property, a variety of tropical plants flourish in the warmer climate, a result of the Gulf Stream prevalent in this part of the region.

There are excellent transport links, the port of Cairnryan, just over six miles from Stranraer has two ferry operators running passenger and freight services to Northern Ireland. Trains to Ayr and Glasgow are available at Stranraer. Trains also run from the regional centre of Dumfries, 83 miles to the east.

Slockmill Farmhouse and Cheese Loft, Drummore, Stranraer, Dumfries and Galloway is for sale through Galbraith at a guide price of £510,000.

An exclusive island offering is now on the market, presenting an opportunity to own a unique off-grid sanctuary for $16.5 million (£12.9 million). This secluded island boasts a residence constructed in the 1980s, designed to comfortably accommodate nine guests across three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Situated in the picturesque Florida Keys, the island spans 5,000 sq ft, with the property occupying a significant portion of this space. The home is strategically positioned to offer stunning 360-degree panoramic views, complemented by a luxurious swimming pool, ensuring an array of leisure activities.

Sustainability is at the forefront of the property’s design, with wind turbines and solar panels installed to harness renewable energy. The interior reveals an expansive open-plan living space, seamlessly integrating a lounge, kitchen island, and sitting area, all enveloped in a warm, wooden aesthetic. Architectural features such as wooden beams, an open fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors enhance the natural ambiance.

The bedrooms echo the home’s rustic charm, adorned with long white drapes, wooden bed frames, and oak furnishings. Privacy and exclusivity are paramount, with the island encircled by a moat and equipped with a private helipad for convenient access.

The island’s natural environment is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent spots for fishing, scuba diving, and kayaking right at the doorstep. For those occasions requiring a trip to the mainland, a brief three-minute boat journey connects residents to the nearest port, where an assortment of shops, gourmet dining options, and essential amenities await.

This one-of-a-kind property is listed by Ember Duran of The Agency, available for acquisition at $16.5 million (approximately £12.9 million).

A studio flat with a monthly rental price of £1,250, situated in a converted timber garage, has drawn significant criticism. The steep rental price does not cover utility bills, which are estimated to be an additional £250 per month for water, electricity, and council tax.

This distinctive dwelling retains the original garage doors and offers a side entry. Although it benefits from a few small windows and additional skylights to brighten the interior, its layout and facilities have raised eyebrows. Located in the upscale area of Cookham, near Maidenhead in Berkshire, the flat comprises a modest living space, devoid of furnishings. Cookham is known for its celebrity residents, including TV personalities Ulrika Johnson and Chris Barrie.

The compact kitchenette is equipped with limited countertop area, and while lacking a refrigerator, it does include a washing machine, oven, and cooking hobs. Tenants are expected to use a ladder to access the sleeping area, which is cramped and features a sloping ceiling that restricts standing room. Additionally, there is a separate small bathroom equipped with a shower.

The property listing suggests it is best suited for a single occupant and offers two parking spaces. Marketed on OpenRent and featured on Rightmove, the advertisement describes the property as a “Quirky, recently renovated studio, with lovely high ceilings, ideal for a single occupant, including two off-street parking spaces and access to the garden.”

However, the property has not been well-received by all potential renters. One individual named Ernest highlighted the rental cost as a primary concern. Others described the offering as “Dystopian,” and Rachel commented that it could “trigger off a mental breakdown.”

Bargain hunters are expected to be queueing up to bid for a Birmingham home hidden by overgrown trees which is coming up at Bond Wolfe’s next auction.

The three-bedroomed house at 95 Walkers Heath Road in Kings Norton will have a guide price* of just £25,000+ in the livestreamed auction on 8 February.

Gurpreet Bassi, chief executive at Bond Wolfe, explained that while some serious pruning was needed outside, the family-sized house comes with a valuable driveway and rear garage.

Mr Bassi said: “There are currently some overgrown trees that need to be cut back outside of this end-terraced home.

“Once that is done, the new owners will be presented with a property which stands back from the road with plenty of space on an L-shaped plot of land.

“This is likely to be a popular lot for first-time buyers with green fingers or for landlords looking to invest in extending their portfolios.”

There is a porch, L-shaped reception room and dining kitchen on the ground floor, with a landing, three bedrooms, bathroom and toilet upstairs, plus gas central heating.

However, Mr Bassi added: “As well as some garden work, this property is also in need of renovation inside, reflected by its very attractive starting price.”

The Birmingham property is just one of 192 lots that are appearing in Bond Wolfe’s next auction, which will start at the earlier time of 8.30am on Thursday 8 February. 

If you have a property you are considering selling, visit https://www.bondwolfe.com/free-property-appraisal/ email auctions@bondwolfe.com or call 0121 312 1212 or 01902 928 510 for advice or to arrange a free no obligation valuation.

Take a look at this Birmingham home coming up at Bond Wolfe’s next auction and you might think that a sledge hammer has been at work in the side passage.

Pop round the back and the vista hardly improves, with the garden of 73 Ivy House Road on the border of West Heath and Kings Norton looking like an unofficial landfill.

Peek inside the three-bedroomed, end-terraced house and these first impressions continue, with a collapsed kitchen ceiling, stripped walls in the bathroom, sitting room and one of the bedrooms.

But the truth behind these chaotic scenes is simply a property halfway through renovations that now needs a bit of tender loving care and investment to become a decent family home once again. 

Gurpreet Bassi, chief executive at Bond Wolfe, explained that the need for “complete refurbishment” was reflected in the guide price* of just £69,000+ that the lot will carry in the livestreamed auction on 8 February.

Mr Bassi said: “This is the kind of property that regularly catches the eyes of keen bidders attending our auctions because they know you can’t always tell a book by its cover.

“Yes, the side passage and some walls in the front garden have been dismantled and the bricks and rubble needs removing.

“But once this been taken care of, the end-terraced garden is actually quite a large space wrapping round the front, side and rear of the house.

“The state of affairs inside is simply what happens when people start a big decorating job, with various tired plaster and tiles in what I’d describe as the first stage of removal.

“Any potential new owner will of course want to come and check the property for themselves, and already we’re dealing with multiple enquiries from first-time buyers with DIY skills and landlords looking to extend their portfolios.”

The property on Ivy House Road has an open plan kitchen and reception room on the ground floor, with a landing, three bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.

The viewing schedule for interested bidders, with no need to book in prior to attending, is:

• Wednesday 24 January 2 to 2.15pm
• Monday 29 January 11am to 11.15pm
• Thursday 1 February 2 to 2.15pm, and
• Tuesday 6 February 11 to 11.15am.

The Birmingham property is just one of 192 lots that are appearing in Bond Wolfe’s next auction, which will start at the earlier time of 8.30am on Thursday 8 February. 

If you have a property you are considering selling, visit https://www.bondwolfe.com/free-property-appraisal/ email auctions@bondwolfe.com or call 0121 312 1212 or 01902 928 510 for advice or to arrange a free no obligation valuation.

Following a rush of sales, the Yorkshire division of national homebuilder, Bellway is readying the sold-out signs at its Barleycorn Way development in South Cave.

The homebuilder has sold 91 of its 95 homes on the development and interest in the final four is sky-high. In addition, its other nearby developments in Anlaby, Kirk Ella and Brough are all selling fast.

Emma Fitton-Cook, Bellway Yorkshire’s sales manager, said: “The interest in homes in South Cave and the other West Hull villages is sky high and its’s easy to understand why there is such demand. Barleycorn Way has an idyllic charm with a balance of history and beautiful rural outlooks to a bustling village centre with a lovely outdoor market and choice of traditional pubs and restaurants.”

Being constructed in a peaceful setting off Little Wold Lane, Barleycorn Way is within easy walking distance of South Cave’s village centre. It features a host of excellent local amenities, and as with all of Bellway’s West Hull developments, it is only a short drive away from Hull city centre and all it has to offer. 

Each property remains true to Bellway’s five-star vision for modern day living with contemporary, open-plan design, high-spec fixtures and fittings and attractive open spaces within the development.

“Only four homes remain on the development, and they all offer something different,” added Emma. “With a lot of the homes now occupied, it really is easy to see what life will be like on Barleycorn Way. There are several well-regarded schools in the area and a lovely little Vineyard a short walk from the development.”

Bellway is currently running a cashback scheme for reservations made before January 31^st offering up to £25,000. This scheme is open to all, but in particular benefits first time buyers who will receive 5% of the house asking price deducted from the final settlement figure on the day of legal completion. Terms and conditions apply.

Prices on the remaining houses at Barleycorn Way range from£374,995 for a four-bed Aspley, to £399,995 for a four-bed Forester.

To find out more about Barleycorn Way and Bellway’s other West Hull village developments visit www.bellway.co.uk/buying-with-bellway/new-homes-in-east-riding or call 01430 451 460.