Many people are attracted to listed buildings for their charm and character, particularly those looking for a period property in London.
One of the overriding benefits of owning a listed building in central London is that around 70% come under either a conservation area or Historic England. This ensures that all listed buildings must be properly maintained and comply with particular criteria like choice of paint colour and traditional materials in keeping with the age and appearance of the property.
The standard, overall look and feel of properties in these streets are maintained, which in turn protects their value. In certain areas like the Nash terraces in Regent’s Park or the stucco buildings in Eaton Square and Chester Square strict maintenance and conservation rules apply. For example specific paint products and colours have to be used. While this adds to the expense of upkeep the result is that the occupants enjoy living in a street where the overall appearance is consistently impressive and immaculate.
Given that listed buildings in London are not uncommon at all, there is no premium attached for buying one. A buyer is far more likely to expect to pay a premium for a property because of its location, scarcity and will be guided by price rather than whether it’s listed.
It’s always a consideration for buyers when they buy a listed property about how to make it work and suit their 21st Century lifestyle; installing air conditioning, sound systems and channelling in cables are prerequisites for modern day life.
There may be limitations and considerations when trying to incorporate modern technology and certain design aspects into a listed period property, but experienced builders and architects working in central London are more than used to dealing with such factors and are adept at coming up with practical solutions that meet the listed building consent criteria.