How many house hunters have you seen on property programmes saying they want a house with 'period features'? Then they complain that there is only one bathroom / no en-suite / no garage etc. Don't they understand that a property with period features is by its very nature, old? Toilets were outside (if there was one at all) and the car hadn't been invented! I always share the frustration of the programme's presenter.
This doesn't mean that old properties can't have many of the mod-cons taken for granted today or that modifications cannot be made to incorporate them. However when buying older properties there are issues to take into consideration. Old properties are often listed buildings meaning alterations must not change the character of the building and planning permission on listed buildings frequently takes longer to approve, expect to have to resubmit applications several times. Building materials used for alterations to listed properties will have to match as closely as possible those used for the original building. This can be expensive if the materials have to be specially made or specialist builders employed. Even if the property isn't listed care should be taken that alterations are sympathetic to the property to prevent harming the value and re-sale potential of the property.
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I recently viewed Marsh Farm, a tardis-like six bedroom 17th century farmhouse that the present owner proudly told me is the second oldest house in Sale. Among its many period features are the most incredible and unique vaulted ceilings I have ever seen. Even older is the picture-postcard cottage on Ferry Lane in Thelwall or slightly younger the ideal first time buyers cottage in Cale Green Stockport, all of these have retained their beautiful period charm while blending the requirements for modern living. If only the T.V presenters could show them to their house hunters.
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