Timeless trends in architecture
Your key contacts
Thomas Blake
Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire 07917 220967
thomas.blake@fishergerman.co.uk
Michael Harris
Cheshire, North Wales 07870 961711
michael.harris@fishergerman.co.uk
Molly Skinner
Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire 07741 264143
molly.skinner@fishergerman.co.uk
Emily McPheat
Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire 07977 066741
emily.mcpheat@fishergerman.co.uk
Ben Charsley
Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire 07816 264582 ben.charsley@fishergerman.co.uk
Toby Harris Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire 07975 980745 toby.harris@fishergerman.co.uk
Toby Gale-Hasleham North Wales 07929 742091
toby.gale-hasleham@fishergerman.co.uk
Ella Pearson
New Homes Agency 07580 323827 ella.pearson@fishergerman.co.uk
Richard Gadd
National Country Agency Team 07966 481487
richard.gadd@fishergerman.co.uk
Joy Brankin-Frisby Leicestershire, Rutland, Northamptonshire 07918 677574
joy.brankin-frisby@fishergerman.co.uk
Will Kerton Worcestershire, Gloucestershire 07483 170611
will.kerton@fishergerman.co.uk
Tom Parker
Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire 07738 981255 thomas.parker@fishergerman.co.uk
Matthew Davis
Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire 07880 385037
matthew.davis@fishergerman.co.uk
Daniel Hayhurst Cheshire, South Manchester 07810 378187 daniel.hayhurst@fishergerman.co.uk
James Cardon Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire 07967 876982 james.cardon@fishergerman.co.uk
Joanne McElevey Worcestershire 07976 493671
joanne.mcelevey@fishergerman.co.uk
Stuart Flint
National Country Agency Team 07501 720422 stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk
Matthew Allen
National Country Agency Team 07810 378190
matthew.allen@fishergerman.co.uk
National expertise
With brilliant coverage across the country, we offer unrivalled
and
Our shared purchaser database ensures your property reaches the widest audience, maximising interest and sale price.
Architecture explored
Historic homes and period properties have long captivated those looking to own a house that combines a rich provenance with enduring design. Many buyers actively search for exemplar properties that clearly express the architectural vernacular of a particular period; others are less specific about era but would love to be the next custodian of an historical architectural gem that encapsulates whatever period in which it was constructed.
We have had the pleasure of facilitating the sale of an extraordinary range of historical properties, and here we take a tour of some of the most popular historical architectural styles for house-hunters keen to have their own piece of design history.
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Malvern, Worcestershire (see
Tudor 1485 to 1603
Tudor houses remain some of the most striking period properties in Britain, with both grand and modest homes having enduring appeal. Larger Tudor properties are characterised by an H- or E-shaped floor plan and symmetrical architecture, with ornate multi-paned windows and the distinctive four-centred arch. Decorative chimney stacks and large stone fireplaces are common, and the richness of design is continued internally with floor-to-ceiling oak panelling, ornate plasterwork, wooden flooring and encaustic tiles.
The archetypal smaller Tudor property is timber framed and often painted a characteristic black and white. These smaller properties (especially in towns or cities in which space was a premium) were built on simpler square or rectangular floor plans. Cruck-framed structures and thatched roofs were common, creating a highly desirable ‘chocolate-box cottage’ style sought after by many today.
An impressive private estate nestled in its own beautiful valley
Alfrick, Worcestershire
• Main house, linked barn conversion
• 3 bedroom barn conversion
• Office suite with studio/event space
• 1 bedroom cottage with planning permission
• Agricultural buildings
• Woodland and sustainable farming
• Private rolling valley setting
• In all about 138 acres
Guide Price | £4,250,000
Contact | Will Kerton Find out more
A rarely available country estate
Newbury, Berkshire
• Queen Anne style house (circa 10,000 sq ft)
• Secondary accommodation
• Delightful gardens and grounds
• Up to 7 additional dwellings
• Mature amenity woodland
• Stunning southerly views
• For sale as a whole or in lots
• In all about 170 acres
Guide Price | £4,750,000
Contact | Matthew Allen
Find out more
from a distance. Constructed of brick or stone, architectural focus was on the façade and rear of the property. Large windows were placed with a focus on balance, and Corinthian, Ionic and Doric columns were often a feature of the impressive entrance porches of these properties. Internally, such properties were incredibly ornate, with delicate plasterwork and elegant chimneypieces, plus intricate stonework and marble. Carefully proportioned windows and high ceilings created space and elegance.
However, it is not just the country houses of the era which have enduring appeal. Georgian townhouses fulfilled the needs of rapidly expanding urban populations, and the terraces, squares, crescents, or circuses of architecturally cohesive symmetrical and stylish properties remain incredibly popular with househunters today. These houses are slim and tall, with distinctive sash windows and an entrance situated on one side of the façade, often with a decorative fanlight within the doorcase. Many such homes are listed to protect them in their original form and as such have survived with most of their attractive period features intact.
Magnificent Grade II listed property full of character
Great Bowden, Leicestershire
• 2 attractive formal reception rooms
• Beautifully appointed kitchen
• Superb family room opening to garden
• First floor sitting room/library
• Principal bedroom, en suite
• Mezzanine office, 4 further bedrooms
• Triple timber garage, store, gardens
• Private and peaceful location
Guide Price | £1,500,000
Contact | Joy Brankin-Frisby
Find out more
A fine residential farm in a glorious location set within 89 acres
Farndon, Cheshire
• Handsome 6 bedroom farmhouse
• Extensive accommodation over 2 levels
• Productive grazing land
• Detached barn with residential consent
• Idyllic and private setting
• Ideal for equestrian use
• In all about 88.99 acres
• EPC rating G
Guide Price | £2,200,000
Contact | Michael Harris Find out more
Victorian 1837 to 1901
The proliferation of building in the Victorian era makes Victorian properties some of the most architecturally recognisable. However, this ubiquity hasn’t dampened the desire of buyers to find their own Victorian home, whether it be a classic Victorian terrace or a more grandly proportioned property. The Victorian terrace property, with its bay windows and red brick construction, is instantly recognisable as being of the era. Despite not being the largest of properties, these homes tend to have high ceilings and bay sash windows, creating a light and airy feel. Terracotta detailing to the exterior, leaded lights and stained glass, attractive tiled flooring and
An excellent period property with secondary accommodation
Repton, Derbyshire
• A dining-kitchen with access to garden
• Drawing room, dining room, media room
• A wonderful master suite
• 5 further bedrooms
• A detached former Engine House
• Circa 1.18 acres of grazing land
• Tennis court and formal gardens
• In all about 4.63 acres
Guide Price | £3,000,000
Contact | Thomas Blake Find out more
Art deco
Art deco architecture gained popularity in the 1920s and ’30s, and was typified by bold geometry and contrasting linear design with curved elements in a streamlined and clean style. Properties were often white rendered with distinctive Crittall windows creating a sleek look. Although not as prevalent as other period properties in Britain, the distinctive homes in this architectural style are perennially popular and their rarity only serves to increase their appeal.
A grand and wonderfully unique 1980’s art deco-style house
High Legh. Cheshire
• Dining kitchen and lower-ground kitchen area
• 2 sitting rooms, one with French doors
• Dining room looking onto beautiful gardens
• 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
• Superbly appointed 2 bedroom annexe
• 1,200 sq ft garage, parking for up to 10 cars
• In all about 1.19 acres
• EPC rating D
Guide Price | £2,150,000
Contact | Daniel Hayhurst
Find out more
Unique and impressive property with circa 4 acres
Ingarsby, Leicestershire
• Large kitchen, sitting/dining space
• Sitting room and study spaces
• Wonderful master, large en suite
• Flexible bedroom accommodation
• Extensive and delightful gardens
• Paddock with separate road access
• In all about 4 acres
• EPC rating C
Guide Price | £1,500,000 Contact | Joy Brankin-Frisby Find out more
Modernist architecture
Modernist homes prioritise functionality and simplicity over conformity to prevailing design trends. In the UK, this strong style is usually attributed to properties constructed between the 1930s and the 1960s. Buildings associated with the style show minimal ornamentation and were defined by the use of innovative construction techniques favouring expanses of glass, steel and reinforced concrete rather than traditional materials.
Designs will feature open-plan spaces under flat or shallow-pitched roofs with clear horizontal building lines and geometric design.
A highly energy efficient and spacious family residence
Ruthin, Denbighshire
• Finished to a high standard throughout
• 2 reception rooms
• Open plan reception/living area
• 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
• Enviable rural aspect
• Desirable village location
• Air source heating, rainwater recovery
• EPC rating A
Guide Price | £550,000
Find out more
Contact | Toby Gale-Hasleham
Whatever your preferred style, our country has a rich heritage of stunning architecture, and we are delighted that we can play a small part in ensuring beautiful buildings are paired with buyers who truly appreciate them.
A rare opportunity to acquire a walled garden plot
Rangemore, Staffordshire
• A historic walled garden
• A rare development opportunity
• Planning Permission approved
• A unique and sustainable home
• Proposed to extend to circa 6,023 sqft
• To include 6 bedrooms and leisure facilities
• The plot is surrounded by mature trees
• In all about 1.34 acres
Guide Price | £975,000
Contact | Thomas Blake
Find out more
New home design: A blend of revivalist
The evolution of new homes in the UK is a captivating journey that marries historical reverence with contemporary innovation. Homeowners and architects are on a quest to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, often turning to revivalist styles and design elements from various architectural eras. Ella Pearson, Head of New Homes, offers her thoughts on popular revivalist styles, and the architectural aspects borrowed from different periods to craft modern living spaces.
styles
Revivalist architecture is all about bringing back styles from previous eras, but with a modern twist to meet today’s needs and aesthetics. Gothic
Westbury, North Buckinghamshire Developer | Browns Developments Ltd SOLD
be complemented with interiors featuring antique furniture with contemporary lighting fixtures, creating a striking contrast that highlights the best of both worlds. Incorporating historic trends and features like parquet-style floors, ornate fireplaces, and stainedglass windows can bring a sense of history and charm to new homes.
Developers are increasingly influenced by local architecture and materials to create homes that resonate with their surroundings and appeal to buyers. Using locally sourced materials not only reduces the environmental impact but also supports the local economy and preserves cultural heritage. Local stone and wood from the surrounding area can enhance the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of a home while reflecting the region’s natural beauty. Drawing inspiration from traditional building techniques and styles helps create homes that feel authentic and connected to their locale.
Local planning authorities play a crucial role in shaping how new homes are developed to suit the
The fusion of revivalist styles and modern design elements in new homes creates spaces that are both timeless and contemporary.
local area. They often provide design guidelines that developers must follow, including architectural styles, building materials, and landscaping requirements, to ensure new homes blend well with the local environment. By setting these standards, local planning authorities help ensure that new homes are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also aligned with the broader goals of the community.
The fusion of revivalist styles and modern design elements in new homes creates spaces that are both timeless and contemporary. By drawing inspiration from various architectural periods, homeowners and architects in the UK can craft homes that reflect their personal tastes while honouring the rich history of architecture.
Head of New Homes
07580 323827
ella.pearson@fishergerman.co.uk Ella Pearson
Selling success
A selection of recently sold properties
Compton Verney, Warwickshire
Bangor on Dee, Wrexham
East Haddon, Northamptonshire
Abbots Bromley, Staffordshire
Middleton, Northamptonshire
Cheadle, Greater Manchester
Droitwich, Worcestershire
Earls Croome, Worcestershire
Chester, Cheshire
Hitchin, Hertfordshire
Droitwich, Worcestershire
Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Llanarmon Yn Ial, Denbighshire
Middlewich, Cheshire
Helmdon, Northamptonshire
Llanddulas, Conwy
Great Longstone, Derbyshire
Cymau, Flintshire
Rangemore, Staffordshire
Welford on Avon, Stratford-upon-Avon
Lach Dennis, Cheshire
Near Eydon, South Northamptonshire
Newton Solney, Derbyshire
Droitwich, Worcestershire
South Newington, Oxfordshire
Malpas. Cheshire
Theddingworth,
Leicestershire
Droitwich, Worcestershire
Burford, Oxfordshire
Chester, Cheshire
Barton-Under-Needwood, Staffordshire
Gresford, Wrexham
Haddenham, Buckinghamshire
Northop, Flintshire
Cheadle, Greater Manchester
National Country Agency Team
Interview with Matthew Allen, Partner and Head of the National Country Agency Team
Recognised by the HNW Spears Directory as a Country House Specialist, Matthew Allen is a hugely experienced property agent specialising in prime country property, farms and estates. Let’s delve into his journey and expertise.
Can you share a bit about your professional background and how you started in this field?
Certainly! By way of brief background, I am a qualified RICS rural chartered surveyor and agricultural valuer with over 20 years of professional experience. I started at Fisher German as a graduate surveyor, where I completed my professional APC and CAAV exams. For the first few years of my professional career, I was a general practice rural surveyor, which provided me with a solid foundation in all property matters. About 12 years ago, I transitioned to a full agency role, initially
managing three local offices and selling a variety of village and country properties. Around four years ago, I moved to the National Country Agency Team role.
What does your current role entail?
I now head up the National Country Agency Team, where I provide expert professional advice on the sale of prime village and country properties, including farms and estates across the country.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I love the variety my role offers, meeting all types of people and dealing with a diverse range of properties. From a property perspective, very little fazes me now, but the people continue to surprise me! When visiting a new potential client, my first question is always, ‘Why am I here and how can we help you achieve your
A beautifully presented period property
Grandborough, Warwickshire
• A beautifully family home
• 6 bedroom principal property
• Special family living accommodation
• A 4 bedroom secondary accommodation
• Extensive range of outbuildings
• Established gardens and grounds
• Edge of village position
• In all about 30.36 acres
Guide Price | £2,500,000
Contact | Matthew Allen
Find out more
objectives?’ Then, I focus on the property aspects. Selling your home or farm that has possibly been in the same family for generations is never a decision that someone will take lightly so it is really important to understand the motivation behind the sale and what the clients are trying to achieve.
This is the architectural edition of Source so can you tell us about some of your preferred architectural styles of property?
I’ve been fortunate enough to handle the sale of pretty much all types of properties, from Grade I dwellings dating back hundreds of years to super-modern bespoke passive houses. Personally, I prefer houses with great symmetry and good proportions, particularly Georgian architecture, although Queen Anne properties often win me over for their classical good looks.
What types of different architectural styled properties are currently available through your team?
We have a wide range of properties available, including the Queen Anne styled Bussockwood House in Berkshire and the historic 15th-century Grade II* Little Malvern Court in Herefordshire.
A wonderful family home
Banbury, Oxfordshire
• An extensive 6 bedroom family home
• Main bedroom with vaulted seating area
• 3 reception rooms, large kitchen
• A range of additional accommodation
• Extensive gardens and grounds
• Outdoor heated swimming pool
• In all about 2 acres
• EPC rating D
Guide Price | £2,750,000
Contact | Matthew Allen
Find out more
What fascinates you most about matching people to different styles of properties?
I’m always intrigued by the types of properties people are drawn to. Part of the fun in matching people to properties is that they rarely end up buying the type of property they initially set out to find!
Matthew Allen
National Country Agency Team 07810 378190 matthew.allen@fishergerman.co.uk
Barford St Michael, Oxfordshire
SOLD
Find out more
A charming Georgian residence
Malpas, Cheshire
• Located in a private setting
• Extended Georgian residence
• A wealth of period charm
• 5 beautiful bedrooms
• Elegant reception rooms
• Kitchen with Aga, wine cellar
• Mature private gardens
• EPC rating D
Guide Price | £1,000,000
Contact | Michael Harris
A superb detached country home
Lower Broadheath, Worcestershire
• Sitting room and dining room
• Kitchen, walk in pantry
• Self contained ground floor annexe
• 4 bedrooms with views
• Gated driveway with ample parking
• Beautiful lawned garden and orchard
• Far reaching views towards the Malverns
• EPC rating E
Guide Price | £1,350,000
Contact | Joanne McElevey
Find out more
Listed buildings… collaboration is the key
Stunning period family home
Whitchurch, Buckinghamshire
• Imposing family house & grounds
• Abundant historic character
• 8 bedrooms, 5 reception rooms
• Renovated to an exceptional standard
• Gardens, outdoor heated swimming pool
• Coach House/stables with planning
• Equestrian facilities
• In all about 5.31 acres
Guide Price | £2,250,000
Contact | Matthew Allen
Find out more
One of the many advantages of working within a multi-disciplinary practice is the power of collaboration. At Fisher German, we cover all property matters, from rural property management to utilities and infrastructure. Our estate agency work often aligns with our planning team, where we regularly bounce ideas and challenges off one another. This joined-up approach has historically proved extremely successful for our private and institutional clients, allowing us to execute visions and overcome obstacles to deliver the best possible advice and results.
Fisher German is fortunate to work on some of the finest rural properties and estates, and we offer unrivalled expertise built up over years of experience. In agency, this often requires interaction with
colleagues across our organisation, especially when focusing on listed property – a hot topic within the sector. Listed properties usually require a constructive disposal strategy to navigate historical regulatory breaches. With an ever greater focus on consumer protection and material information, taking early professional advice has never been more important to avoid transactional issues that may lead to frustrated sales, increased costs, and planning enforcement.
We have worked on and delivered a huge number of listed property sales, but here we want to highlight the power of collaboration. When property experts work together, they can recognise challenges, provide the best strategy and deliver results. The following case study focuses on a more complex scenario, emphasising how early awareness and a transparent approach can significantly improve the outcomes.
Exemplary Grade II listed country residence
Ruthin, Denbighshire
• A wealth of character features
• 4 reception rooms
• 7 bedrooms
• 4 bathrooms
• Several outbuildings and stables
• Formal and tranquil gardens
• Paddocks suitable for equine use
• In all about 10 acres
Guide Price | £1,250,000
Find out more
Contact | Toby Gale Hasleham
The background
Fisher German was approached by executors of a deceased estate to provide early marketing advice on a substantial Grade II listed Victorian country property, which had been in the same ownership for generations. Their property included a range of supporting outbuildings and grounds extending to over four acres. It required considerable renovation, but period features had been retained, representing an excellent opportunity. However, it quickly became clear that the previous owners had not consistently observed the listed status, and works had potentially been carried out without the benefit of listed building consents. Breaches like this can lead to criminal prosecution unless managed and must be highlighted during the sales process to adhere to consumer protection legislation. Understandably, breaches can impact value and potentially limit funding opportunities.
An attractive part-thatched Grade II listed cottage
Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire
• Grade II listed cottage
• Attractive extended part thatched
• Master bedroom with en suite
• 3 further bedrooms
• Home office/garden room
• Private garden, countryside views
• Garage, off road parking
• Sought after village location
Guide Price | £875,000
Contact | Matthew Davis
Find out more
At this early stage, we took the unusual approach of not offering valuation advice or a sales strategy; instead, we recommended a full planning review, to better understand historical activity at the property and how any problems could be overcome. Fortunately, the executors appreciated the honest advice, as these issues hadn’t been raised with them previously. We were engaged as consultants in the early preparation of the sale and established quotes for planning advice. It was recognised that working with our internal planning team would deliver continuity and efficiencies for the client.
Our planning strategy
When dealing with unauthorised works, it’s often possible to seek forgiveness or establish immunity without significant repercussions. However, breaches related to listed building consent can have significant outcomes and do not become immune over time.
Both those who carried out the work and those instructing them can face prosecution, with the prospect of imprisonment and unlimited fines. Financial gains from misdoings are also factored in.
Additionally, enforcement action to make the damage good can be inherited by future owners, posing challenges when historic fabric has been lost.
In relation to this listed property, minimising the risk of such repercussions and putting potential buyers at ease through transparency and a clear strategy was our priority. We reviewed the site’s planning history, which informed a site visit to better understand what alterations may not have benefited from planning or listed building consent.
We discovered a large modern flat-roofed rear extension and various alterations to the listed building, none of which were visible from the front of the property. It quickly became apparent that we needed to establish the property’s history, involving heritage consultants.
This collaboration proved to be extremely worthwhile, resulting in a positive outcome. We established and
Find out more
Grade II listed apartment providing luxury living
Over Alderley, Cheshire
• Two-storey apartment within Birtles Hall
• Grand architectural features
• Large open plan living kitchen, utility
• 2 large store rooms, perfect for conversion
• Drawing room/sitting room
• 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
• Private parking, communal gardens
• Delightful and tranquil location
Guide Price | £750,000
Contact | Daniel Hayhurst
Find out more
A stunning, recently built property
Malpas, Cheshire
• 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
• Constructed in 2019
• Large kitchen/family room
• Utility room/ample storage space
• Delightful sitting room
• Quality fittings throughout
• Stunning views over the rear garden
• EPC rating C
Guide Price | £750,000
Contact | Michael Harris
Find out more
A charming country home in an idyllic location
Stoke Albany, Leicestershire
• Wonderful character home
• Original features with modern living
• Fantastic open plan living kitchen
• Three further reception rooms
• Master suite, three further bedrooms
• Outbuildings, wonderful gardens
• In all about 1.39 acres
• EPC rating D
Guide Price | £1,500,000
Contact | Joy Brankin-Frisby
An exceptional period property
Kirk Ireton, Derbyshire
• A grand reception hall
• An excellent living/dining kitchen
• Boot room, laundry room, cloakroom
• 4 reception rooms, cellar
• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
• 2 apartments with separate access
• Large garage range, generous gardens
• In all about 16.08 acres
Guide Price | £1,750,000
Contact | Thomas Blake
Online auctions
FG Auctions is five years old, and Tom Dennes has led the development of the platform from the start. Over the years, this simple selling method has been used to sell a huge variety of properties ranging from charming 19th-century cottages to modern family homes, and even unique architectural gems like canal-side cottages accessible only by narrowboat. This diversity in property types showcases the versatility and broad appeal of their auction services.
In this interview, we’ll delve into Tom’s role, highlighting the significant value FG Auctions brings to both buyers and sellers. We’ll also explore the architectural variety of properties they’ve sold and the benefits of choosing online auctions.
What do you do? Tell us more about FG Auctions.
While residential properties and rural land have always been our mainstay, we’ve recently seen a significant increase in sales for commercial properties and corporate clients looking to offload a wide range of surplus property assets.
What type of property is suitable to be sold by online auction?
The short answer is anything! We sell an incredibly wide variety of properties – all types of residential, agricultural and commercial properties.
Talk us through some examples of what you’ve sold.
We recently sold a run-down timber-framed 18thcentury country house in Worcestershire and a charming 19th-century cottage in Oxfordshire. A particularly memorable property was a canal-side cottage in Oxfordshire which dated from the late 1800s and was only accessible by narrowboat. We’ve also sold a pair of Victorian cottages in a prime Cheshire village, a 1930s semi-detached house in Leicester, a modern 16-year-old semi-detached house in Pickering, North Yorkshire, and a similarly new detached family home near Wrexham in Wales. Our portfolio truly spans a cross-section of property ages, sizes, and styles to suit all tastes.
Who is selling and what are the benefits of a sale by online auction?
We often work with executors selling properties out of probate, landowners with surplus land, and corporate clients looking to streamline their property portfolios by selling non-core assets. Many corporate bodies, charities, and public organisations are drawn to online auctions because they offer more certainty of sale within a fixed timeframe, a fully transparent
date of the sale and having a legally binding agreement allows these clients to plan for reinvestment.
However, most of our sellers are private individuals, often selling their main homes. Recently, we had two notable sales in Chester: one property with shared gardens overlooking the River Dee and another fine detached 1930s house in a smart suburb, both fetching excellent prices. We are seeing some extraordinary results with properties selling on average 29% over the guide price
What are some of the main benefits for sellers using online auctions?
Efficiency and speed are key benefits. The legal pack is prepared up front, the auction day is set and legal exchange happens when the timer goes to zero, provided the reserve has been met. The clever part of the dynamic platform we use is that, if a bid is made in the last five minutes of the auction, the timer resets for a further five minutes allowing bidders to continue bidding. This ensures that the property sells for the very best price.
For online auctions, we typically see properties marketed for 28 days which means properties can be sold in just two months – a very appealing prospect for those wanting to dispose of their property assets quickly.
How does wider reach and market exposure benefit online auctions?
Wider reach and market exposure are crucial. Attracting national buyers not specific to a geographic area increases the chance of finding competitive bidders, offering buyers and investors from anywhere the chance to participate.
What makes online auctions particularly attractive to potential buyers?
Transparency is a big draw. Potential buyers have visibility of the current highest bid and can place competing bids in real time.
What do you see for the future of online auctions?
Online auctions offer strong benefits for both buyers and sellers, providing a convenient, streamlined transaction process, transparency, efficiency, and competitive pricing. We expect to see more commercial buyers and those looking to expand their portfolios turning to this method of sale in the next year and beyond.
Find out more by scanning the QR code
FG Auctions
0370 850 5150
tom.dennes@fishergerman.co.uk
Tom Dennes
lenders familiar with rural and acreage properties are better equipped to handle these scenarios.
Modern housing brings unique mortgage opportunities and challenges. First-time buyers exploring new-build homes can benefit from exclusive rates and schemes, making home ownership more affordable. Those pursuing self-build projects can take advantage of stagerelease mortgages, perfectly suited for phased financing as their home construction progresses. Additionally, ecohome mortgages reward buyers choosing properties with high energy-efficiency ratings (EPC ratings) through preferential lending rates, supporting sustainable living and reducing long-term costs.
How to navigate the process
Finding the right lender: Specialist lenders are adept at handling diverse property types and offer flexible lending criteria. They provide tailored mortgage products to accommodate unique features, ensuring your property is evaluated fairly and accurately.
Evaluating income streams: Clearly documenting consistent income from holiday lets or other propertyrelated ventures through booking records, financial statements, or tax returns is essential. We assist in effectively presenting your income to suitable lenders.
Ensuring accurate valuation: Accurate valuation is critical, especially for unique, rural, or architecturally distinctive properties. Specialist valuers provide comprehensive assessments, ensuring your property’s true value –including potential income streams – is reflected accurately.
Setting realistic expectations: Purchasing unique properties typically involves a longer, more complex process. Being prepared for potential delays and additional documentation requirements helps ensure smoother transactions and reduces stress.
Final thoughts
Purchasing a unique property, whether rural, agricultural, modern, or architecturally distinctive, requires careful planning and specialist knowledge. Working with experienced mortgage brokers simplifies the process, helping secure the ideal mortgage solution for your needs.
For free personalised mortgage advice, contact us today. We’re here to guide you through every step.
To find out more scan the QR code below or visit www.cherrystreetfinance.com 0330 053 6911
Stamp Duty
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is payable to HMRC when buying property or land over a certain value. SDLT is payable to HMRC in the UK with the exception of Scotland where they have their own Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) and Wales have Land Transaction Tax (LTT).
Stamp Duty Land Tax is levied progressively, in a similar way to income tax. Calculating your liability to this progressive tax can be complex. It can depend on the type of property you are buying, and whether it is your principal private home, a second or third home or a commercial or mixed-use property. Below we break down what Stamp Duty you would be charged depending on a variety of factors.
Purchasing a Sole Residential Property
If you are purchasing a residential property, are not a first-time buyer, are a UK resident and this will be the only property you will own and (whether you live in it or not), then you will pay Stamp Duty if the transaction price is above £125,000 Thereafter, you pay tax as follows:
• The next £125,000 (the portion from £125,001 to £250,000) – 2%
• The next £675,000 (the portion from £250,001 to £925,000) – 5%
• The next £575,000 (the portion from £925,001 to £1.5 million) – 10%
• The remaining amount (the portion above £1.5 million) – 12%
Purchasing as a First-Time Buyer
There is a discount for first-time buyers. A first purchase of up to £300,000 no longer attracts the tax, and the existing rate of 5% applies on the portion from £300,001 to £500,000. The relief does not apply to properties above £500,000.
Second Home, Buy-to-let Property or Holiday Home
Anyone purchasing a second home or buy-to-let property above £40,000 (unless this is the only property you own) will have to pay an additional 5% on top of the amounts detailed on the left.
If you are purchasing a new property which you intend to use as your only home, but haven’t yet sold your previous house, you would have to pay the higher rates detailed on the left – however, if you sell your old house within 36 months you could get a refund.
Non-Residential or Mixed Use Property
Purchasing a property with significant land holdings can attract a different stamp duty calculation. If the property is classified as nonresidential or mixed-use land and property there is a stepped regime as follows:
• Up to £150,000 – 0%
• Above £150,000 and up to £250,000 – 2%
• Above £250,000 – 5%
Our agency teams are highly knowledgeable and are often asked to provide advice about SDLT so please do get in touch with any questions you may have. To make life a little easier, our website has an online Stamp Duty calculator to cut through the often confusing world of SDLT and save you time –you can find it here:
Thinking of buying or selling?
Fisher German has an extensive network offering exceptional national coverage. If you are looking to buy or sell residential or agricultural property, you’ll be in safe hands with us and we will be delighted to help you.
Please call us or email: property@fishergerman.co.uk if you would like a free market appraisal or if you would like us to help you with your property search.
Source magazine is intended to be informative but further advice should be taken before decisions are finalised. Prices are correct at time of launch. Fisher German LLP has tried to ensure accuracy and cannot accept liability for any errors, fact or opinion. Date of production May 2025.