Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Liverpool

Property Market Trends in Liverpool

Liverpool has long been a city of cultural significance and historic charm, but in recent years, it has also emerged as a compelling option for property investment. Whether you are looking to purchase your first home or keen to invest in a property with promising returns, understanding Liverpool’s property market trends can be pivotal.

Areas on the Rise

• Baltic Triangle: Known for its trendy bars, art spaces, and start-up culture, the Baltic Triangle has become increasingly popular among young professionals, thereby driving up property values.
• Lark Lane: A suburban feel combined with bustling restaurants and pubs makes Lark Lane an attractive area for families.
• Waterfront: With ongoing regeneration projects, the Waterfront area offers luxurious options with a stunning view of the River Mersey.

Factors Affecting Property Values

• Employment Opportunities: The growth of the tech and creative industries in Liverpool has attracted a young and skilled workforce, influencing housing demand.
• Transport Links: Proximity to main railway stations like Liverpool Central and easy access to motorways make certain areas more desirable.
• University Presence: The University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University bring in a steady stream of students, affecting the rental market.

Investment Potential

• Regeneration Projects: Areas like Anfield and Everton are witnessing significant investments in infrastructure, which is likely to have a positive impact on property values.
• Yield: Liverpool is renowned for offering some of the best rental yields in the country, especially in postcodes like L1 and L7.

Being savvy about Liverpool’s property market trends allows you to make more informed decisions, enhancing your prospects whether you’re looking to reside or invest in this vibrant city.

Sources

• Zoopla: Liverpool Property Market
• The Liverpool Echo: Property Section

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Liverpool

If you’re contemplating buying property in Liverpool, it’s crucial to be aware of the structural conditions and common issues you may encounter in the area’s housing stock. This knowledge can guide you in making informed decisions, ensuring that you aren’t saddled with unexpected repair costs later on.

Common Structural Issues

• Dampness and Mould: Due to the city’s maritime climate, properties can be prone to dampness, leading to mould issues if not properly managed.
• Subsidence: Some areas of Liverpool have clay soil, which can result in subsidence affecting foundations and requiring costly repair.
• Aging Plumbing: Particularly in older properties, you may find outdated plumbing systems that may need a complete overhaul.
• Roofing Defects: Slate roofs, common in older Liverpool properties, may need repair or replacement due to weathering and age.

Mitigating Factors

• RICS Home Surveys: An in-depth survey conducted by a RICS-accredited surveyor can help identify these and other issues, providing you with an opportunity to renegotiate or walk away.
• Local Tradespeople: Experts familiar with Liverpool’s architectural quirks can provide remedial solutions tailored to the area’s common problems.
• Liverpool City Council Resources: The council offers advice and sometimes financial assistance for home repairs and improvements.

Considerations for Different Property Types

• Georgian Terraces: These historic homes offer grandeur but may require substantial updates to electrical systems, plumbing, and insulation.
• Mid-Century Homes: Generally well-built, though possibly requiring modernisation in the form of new windows, boilers, or electrical systems.
• New Builds: These are generally built to modern standards but should still be thoroughly vetted for build quality and potential defects.

By understanding the structural characteristics typical of Liverpool properties, you can make more educated choices, whether you are an investment buyer or looking for your forever home.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): Helping You Choose The Right Survey
• Liverpool City Council: Building and Planning

Local Amenities in Liverpool

Liverpool is a vibrant city in Merseyside known for its rich cultural heritage, music scene, and sporting events. The city provides a plethora of amenities to meet the diverse needs of its residents and visitors.

Shopping and Retail

• Liverpool ONE: An expansive outdoor shopping complex offering high-street brands, designer boutiques, and dining options.
• Bold Street: Known for its eclectic mix of independent shops, cafes, and international food stores.

Health and Fitness

• Lifestyles Fitness Centres: A network of public gyms and leisure facilities scattered across the city.
• Sefton Park: A Grade I listed park featuring a boating lake, playgrounds, and ample space for outdoor activities.

Dining and Leisure

• The Baltic Triangle: An up-and-coming area filled with trendy bars, cafes, and creative spaces.
• Royal Albert Dock: Offers a mix of museums, shops, and restaurants along the waterfront.

Family Amenities

• Knowsley Safari Park: A great destination for a family day out, featuring a safari drive and a range of animal experiences.
• World Museum: A free museum offering diverse exhibits from natural history to world cultures, perfect for educational family visits.

Public Services

• Royal Liverpool University Hospital: Provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including emergency care and specialist treatments.
• Central Library: Apart from lending books, this modern library also offers a range of digital services and community events.

Understanding the local amenities in Liverpool can offer invaluable insights whether you’re looking to invest in property or planning a move to the city.

Sources

1. Visit Liverpool: What’s On & Attractions
2. Liverpool City Council: Leisure and Wellbeing

Commute and Transportation Options in Liverpool

For those eyeing property investments or residential opportunities in Liverpool, a thorough understanding of the local commute and transport infrastructure is invaluable. Liverpool’s extensive transportation network boosts property valuations and significantly contributes to a better living experience.

Public Transport

• Merseyrail: Liverpool is served by one of the most extensive local train networks in the UK, connecting key areas within the city as well as the wider Merseyside region.
• Bus Services: Bus routes like the 86, 79 and the 10A offer good connectivity to various districts and suburbs, as well as neighbouring cities like Manchester.

Rail Services

• Liverpool Lime Street: This mainline station offers inter-city rail services to London, Manchester, and other significant UK cities.
• Liverpool Central: Predominantly serves local train lines, facilitating commuting within the city and nearby areas.

Road Links

• M62, M53 and M58: These motorways provide excellent access to Manchester, the Wirral, and the North West of England, respectively.
• A59 and A580: These arterial roads are crucial for local and regional commuting, offering alternatives to motorway travel.

Cycling and Walking Routes

• Liverpool Loop Line: A disused railway line transformed into a cycle and walking route, connecting several suburbs.
• Albert Dock: Offers picturesque pedestrian paths, suitable for both leisurely walks and shorter commutes.

Nearby Airports

• Liverpool John Lennon Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from the city centre, it offers a range of international and domestic flights, making it convenient for frequent travellers.

Understanding the commuting and transportation options in Liverpool can greatly inform your property investment choices. The city’s robust public transport system and efficient road network make it an ideal location for a range of property needs.

Sources

• Merseytravel: Public Transport in Liverpool
• Liverpool City Council: Roads and Travel

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Liverpool

Planning Permission in Liverpool

Knowledge of local planning guidelines can be instrumental in successfully navigating Liverpool’s real estate landscape.

What You Need to Know

• Liverpool Local Plan: This document sets the framework for development across the city, including residential, commercial, and leisure spaces.
• Heritage Sites: Liverpool has numerous World Heritage Sites and Conservation Areas, where planning permission requirements are particularly stringent.
• Dockland Developments: The city’s dockland areas are undergoing significant regeneration, offering a variety of development opportunities.

Common Pitfalls

• Ignoring the ‘Liverpool Waters’ Scheme: Any developments in proximity to the docks should be aware of the large-scale ‘Liverpool Waters’ regeneration project and its planning implications.
• Overlooking Public Consultation: Public opinion can play a significant role in planning decisions, so it’s important to engage with the local community where possible.

Land Covenants in Liverpool

Land covenants in Liverpool can impose restrictions or responsibilities that can materially affect property ownership.

Types of Covenants

• Positive Covenants: These could entail obligations to upkeep communal areas or shared facilities like gardens or playgrounds.
• Restrictive Covenants: These can limit what you’re permitted to do on the property, such as disallowing commercial activities in residential zones.

Things to Consider

• Legacy Covenants: Some older areas of Liverpool might still have historical covenants that are enforceable today.
• Legal Consultation: Due to the complexity of land covenants, it’s advisable to consult a legal expert knowledgeable in Liverpool’s property market.

By getting to grips with planning permission and land covenants in Liverpool, you’ll be well-placed to make informed decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or developing property.

Sources

• Liverpool City Council: Planning and Building Control
• The Law Society: Buying and owning a leasehold home