Trading up, trading down

Trading up: London. This £825,000 semi-detached period cottage in north Battersea has two double bedrooms and one single, but the owner could extend into the attic for a fourth. The recently renovated kitchen includes a Belling range, while the double reception has plenty of room for a dining area. There’s only one bathroom. The property is within easy pram-pushing distance of Battersea Park and the river Thames, and it’s in the borough of Wandsworth, which has the UK’s lowest council tax.
Cluttons, 020 7228 7275
Photograph: Cluttons

Trading up: Dorset. Orchard House is a handsome grade II-listed property with seven bedrooms, stables, outbuildings, a walled garden and paddock – perfect for keeping the largest of families contained and occupied. It sits in the village of Marnhull and has lovely views to the nearby church. Inside is a multitude of period features including window seats, working fireplaces, two staircases, window shutters and flagstone floors. The outbuildings could be converted to an annexe, holiday accommodation or offices. Yours for £995,000.
Symonds & Sampson, 01258 473766
Photograph: Sampson

Trading down: Cumbria. The outside of this £150,000 flat in Keswick may not look any great shakes, but it has beautiful views across the river Greta and Fitz Park to the Skiddaw Range and Latrigg Hill. The one-bed property is part of a retirement complex and offers a 24-hour emergency alarm system. There is an age clause, however: the buyer must be 55 or above.
PF&K North Lakes Properties, 0843 3135907
Photograph: PF&K North Lakes Properties

Trading down: London. This ultra-contemporary penthouse flat in a warehouse conversion on Wapping high street would be just the thing for a City worker. With two bedrooms and two recently refurbished bathrooms, solid oak flooring, a smart kitchen and new carpets it feels light, bright and clean. The £699,950 price tag also includes a roof terrace with partial river views.
Cluttons, 020 7488 4858
Photograph: Cluttons

Dream home: Cumbria. The Lodge in Meathop was built in 1903 as a home for the matron at the adjacent TB sanatorium, which has now been converted into 23 individual homes. But privacy need not be an issue with this three-bedder: it is set in a large woodland clearing. It is on the market for £450,000, while the adjacent 3.89 acres of woodland are available for £40,000.
Savills, 015242 74413
Photograph: Savills