Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Oldham

Property Market Trends in Oldham

Situated northeast of Manchester, Oldham is a town that balances urban living with the tranquility of the surrounding Pennines. Whether you’re an investor or looking to settle, understanding Oldham’s property market trends can be pivotal.

Key Neighbourhoods

• Saddleworth: Known for its scenic beauty and historic architecture, Saddleworth has become a favourite for those seeking peace without sacrificing amenities.
• Chadderton: A mix of traditional homes and new developments, Chadderton is ideal for families and first-time buyers.
• Royton: This area combines residential tranquility with excellent shopping facilities, drawing a broad range of residents.

Market Highlights

• Price Stability: Unlike other nearby locations experiencing rapid price increases, Oldham has seen a moderate but consistent growth in property prices.
• Affordability: Generally more affordable than Manchester and Salford, Oldham offers good value for both buyers and renters.

Factors Influencing the Market

• Connectivity: The Metrolink service has improved Oldham’s connectivity to Manchester, giving a boost to local property prices.
• Schools: The presence of several well-regarded schools is a major pull for families, thereby increasing demand for housing.
• Local Amenities: With a range of parks, shopping centres, and leisure facilities, the area is increasingly attractive for long-term living.

Investment Opportunities

For investors, the town centre and its ongoing regeneration projects hold promise. The development of the Old Town Hall into a cinema and restaurant complex exemplifies the type of revitalisation that adds value to the area.

By having a finger on the pulse of Oldham’s property market trends, you can make more nuanced decisions, whether you’re contemplating a residential purchase or an investment.

Sources

• OnTheMarket: Oldham Property Trends
• Oldham Council: Regeneration

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Oldham

When it comes to purchasing property in Oldham, having an awareness of structural conditions and common issues is crucial. Such knowledge is indispensable for making educated choices and negotiating effectively.

Common Structural Issues

• Energy Inefficiency: Older homes in Oldham often lack adequate insulation, leading to higher energy bills.
• Brickwork Deterioration: In some of the older properties, the brickwork may show signs of age, requiring re-pointing or potential wall tie replacements.
• Guttering Issues: Poorly maintained guttering can lead to damp problems and potential structural damage in the long term.
• Chimney Stack Problems: In older homes, particularly those built in the Victorian era, chimney stacks can become unstable and may need repairs or removal.

Mitigating Factors

• RICS Surveys: A detailed RICS Home Survey will help you identify any structural issues, thereby helping you avoid costly future repairs.
• Energy Upgrades: Grants and incentives may be available for energy-efficient improvements, such as insulation.
• Regular Inspections: Periodic checks by qualified professionals can preemptively identify issues before they become serious problems.

Considerations for Different Property Types

• Terraced Homes: Often found in Oldham, these require close attention to shared walls and potential subsidence.
• Semi-Detached and Detached Homes: Usually offering more space but can have issues like poor drainage or soil movement.
• Flats and Apartments: Modern complexes generally have fewer structural issues but always examine leasehold agreements for any maintenance clauses.

Being well-versed in the structural issues commonly found in Oldham can be an invaluable asset, whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): Home Surveys
• Oldham Council: Home Improvement Grants

Local Amenities in Oldham

Nestled between the bustling cities of Manchester and Leeds, Oldham offers a blend of urban convenience and rural beauty. The town provides an extensive range of amenities to meet the needs of its diverse community, from shopping and healthcare to leisure and family activities.

Shopping and Retail

• Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre: A central retail hub featuring high-street brands, department stores, and cafes.
• Tommyfield Market: A traditional market offering fresh produce, meat, and local specialties.

Health and Fitness

• Oldham Leisure Centre: A modern facility featuring a gym, swimming pool, and various fitness classes.
• Alexandra Park: A large Victorian park suitable for jogging, cycling, and outdoor workouts.

Dining and Leisure

• Uppermill: A village within Oldham renowned for its cosy cafes, pubs, and fine dining restaurants.
• George Street Chapel: Now a heritage centre, it offers cultural events and performances.

Family Amenities

• Gallery Oldham: A popular venue for families with rotating art exhibits, workshops, and educational programmes.
• Dove Stone Reservoir: An ideal location for family walks and picnics, offering scenic views and nature trails.

Public Services

• Royal Oldham Hospital: Provides comprehensive healthcare services, including an A&E department.
• Oldham Library: Not just for books, the library also offers computer access and community events.

Being aware of your local amenities in Oldham can greatly inform your property purchase decisions, whether you’re buying for yourself or as an investment.

Sources

• Explore Manchester: Oldham
• Oldham Council: Leisure and Culture

Commute and Transportation Options in Oldham

Navigating the property market in Oldham necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the commuting and transport options available in the area. Oldham is well-connected and offers a variety of travel methods, making it a convenient place for work, education, and leisure.

Public Transport

• Metrolink Trams: The Oldham and Rochdale Line provides seamless connections to key destinations in Greater Manchester, including Manchester city centre.
• Bus Network: Several bus routes serve Oldham and connect it to surrounding towns and cities, including routes 58, 59, and 83.

Train Services

• Oldham Mumps Station: Though Oldham’s original train stations closed, Oldham Mumps offers a Metrolink service that covers what train routes used to provide.

Road Infrastructure

• M60 and M62 Motorways: Oldham has good motorway connections, particularly the M60 and M62, allowing for easy transit to Manchester and other parts of the North West.
• A627 and A669: These are key arterial roads that pass through Oldham, offering alternative commuting options.

Cycling and Walking

• Leesbrook Park: This park provides walking and cycling trails, offering a greener way to move around Oldham.
• Local Cycle Routes: Oldham has started to invest in cycle paths, especially around the town centre, to make it easier for residents to bike safely.

Proximity to Airports

• Manchester Airport: Located around 45 minutes from Oldham, the airport offers international and domestic flights, increasing the area’s convenience for those who travel frequently.

Knowing the commute and transportation options in Oldham can help you make an informed decision when considering property investments or residential moves. The area’s robust transport network adds a layer of practicality and efficiency, making Oldham an attractive choice for various property needs.

Sources

• Transport for Greater Manchester: Oldham Line
• Oldham Council: Transport and Travel

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Oldham

Understanding the planning landscape in Oldham is vital for anyone considering property investment or homeownership in the area.

What You Need to Know

• Oldham Local Plan: The Oldham Council has set out specific guidelines and policies in their Local Plan. These guidelines are crucial for understanding what types of development are likely to be approved.
• Conservation Areas: Oldham has several conservation areas like Saddleworth and Lees, where additional planning considerations may apply.
• Green Belt Land: Areas of Oldham are designated Green Belt land, offering limited scope for new developments.

Common Pitfalls

• Overlooking Drainage Requirements: Due to the area’s topography, drainage considerations are particularly important in Oldham.
• Ignoring Public Sentiment: As in other locations, public opinion can influence planning decisions. Hence, community engagement can often ease the planning process.

Land Covenants in Oldham

Land covenants in Oldham can dictate the limitations and obligations attached to a property, often hidden but significant details.

Types of Covenants

• Positive Covenants: You may be required to take specific actions, such as maintaining shared amenities or pathways.
• Restrictive Covenants: Limitations could include anything from types of permitted developments to usage restrictions on the property.

Things to Consider

• Historical Covenants: Given Oldham’s rich history, older properties may have long-standing but still enforceable covenants.
• Specialist Advice: As always, consult legal and property experts to clarify any uncertainties around land covenants.

Thoroughly understanding planning permissions and land covenants can safeguard your investment and avoid unforeseen hurdles in Oldham.

Sources

• Oldham Council: Planning and Building
• HM Land Registry: GOV UK