Snooping around: Rural, urban or renovation

Wreck of the week: Kent. This two-bed Georgian farmhouse in Elmstone needs new heating, wiring and fittings – £35,000 should have a dramatic effect, but that is after your initial £200,000 investment. It is handsome inside and out, and unlisted, so you could extend it. It's a bit too far east to commute to the City.
GW Finn & Sons, 01227 710200 Photograph: GW Finn & Sons/GW Finn & Sons

In town: Brighton. Offers in excess of £300,000 will be accepted for this four-bed Georgian house in the town centre, which is a pretty good price. You are a few minutes from the sea and slightly further from mainline train stations. You can't park on the busy road outside.
King & Chasemore, 01273 608011 Photograph: King & Chasemore/King & Chasemore

In the country: Cornwall. This £350,000 effort sits on the wooded edge of the 18th-century port village of Charlestown. It is surrounded by greenery but is just a walk from the harbour and beaches. A multi-fuel stove in the hearth provides hot water and heating. It is a shame the large gardens are mainly in front.
Stratton Creber, 01726 73254 Photograph: Stratton Creber/Stratton Creber

Dream home: West Dumbartonshire. This old bothy clutches the banks of Loch Lomond and boasts views to the mountains and an ancient woodland surround. It was near here that Robert the Bruce had to ferry 200 of his men three-by-three in a leaky boat to safety after a defeat during the Scottish rebellion. The walls are exposed stone, there are three bedrooms and a workroom, utility room and shower room in the separate garage. Offers over £410,000.
Strutt & Parker, 0141 225 3880 Photograph: Strutt & Parker/Strutt & Parker

Over the sea: Cayman Islands. All that you see – the pool, the palms, the pontoon and cabana – are yours for £386,500. With these comes a large renovated house with three bedrooms, sweeping tiled living areas and views of the Caribbean. It sits in its own expansive manicured grounds on South Sound, Grand Cayman, 10 minutes from Georgetown.
Knight Frank, 020 76298171 Photograph: Knight Frank/Knight Frank