Expensive renovations have polished this five-bedroom semi-detached home to its original Victorian splendour, including regal rooms, original fireplaces, elaborate cornicing and bay windows. The property, which also boasts two receptions, is just a stroll away from the town centre. It’s a shame that the back garden is so compact.
Jackson-Stops & Staff, 01823 325 144. Photograph: Jackson-Stops & Staff
This mansion house has at least seven bedrooms and is cosmetically rather than structurally challenged. It’s on sale for £495,000 and purchasers could beautify it for around £30,000-£50,000. It has a sweeping marble staircase, gold-leaf cornicing, original wall and floor tiles as well as a tower-top observatory with sea views. The downside is its limited garden space – and the heating bills.
Wooster & Stock, 020-7708 6700. Photograph: Wooster and Stock
This traditional period farmhouse – up for £439,000 – is gloriously sited, newly renovated and spaciously proportioned, with three receptions and four bedrooms. With views over the surrounding countryside, it has decent-sized gardens, but the track up to it could be rough going in winter.
George F White, 01833 6900390. Photograph: George F White
Many an Englishman’s fantasy is fashioned in thatch. And here it is prettily realised in the Devon village of Stokeinteignhead, with views to the church. It’s on the market for the first time in 20 years and newcomers will want to overhaul the décor, but the ingredients are sound with stone fireplaces in both reception rooms, beamed ceilings, leaded windows and deep sills. There are two bedrooms and large, well-screened gardens. £375,000.
Bradleys, 01626 873757. Photograph: Bradleys
The idea is that these beach-front homes are a bargain because the region round the Thai fishing village of Ban Phe has begun a rapid harvest of tourists. Early investors are therefore lured with a guaranteed rental income for three years. The flats, villas and town houses in this gated development will all have large balconies and views of white sand, sea and tropical landscaping. Residents can start unpacking some time after June 2011 and can commence social integration in two pools, tennis courts, a gym, spa and library. Thirty golf courses are within driving distance. Prices start at £119,621 for a studio.
escapes2.com, 0800 567 7268. Photograph: escapes2.com
