Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Preston

Property Market Trends in Preston

Understanding the property market trends in Preston can serve as a vital asset for both first-time buyers and seasoned investors. Familiarising yourself with market conditions, areas of growth, and investment potential will enable you to make an informed decision.

Stable Neighbourhoods

• Fulwood: Known for its well-established residential setting, Fulwood has remained stable in property prices, attracting families and professionals alike.
• Ashton-on-Ribble: This area offers a mix of property types with steady appreciation, making it a strong choice for long-term investment.

Upcoming Areas

• City Centre: The revitalisation efforts and ongoing development in Preston’s city centre have started to attract younger professionals, signalling potential for property appreciation.
• Ribbleton: With new housing developments and infrastructure improvements, Ribbleton is showing signs of becoming a property hotspot.

Factors Influencing Market Trends

• Education: The presence of the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) adds a transient yet consistent demand for rental properties.
• Transport: The city’s bus and rail networks, as well as proximity to the M6, make commuting convenient and add value to property prices.
• Employment: Preston has a diverse employment sector including public services, retail, and manufacturing, contributing to a stable property market.

Being knowledgeable about the property market trends in Preston allows you to tailor your investment or home-buying strategies effectively.

Sources

• Rightmove: Preston Property Market Insights
• Preston GOV UK – Levelling Up

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Preston

If you’re contemplating a property purchase in Preston, it’s essential to understand the general structural conditions you’re likely to encounter. From traditional terraced houses to modern flats, each property type has its specific considerations.

Common Types of Properties

• Mill-Era Terraced Houses: Often charming but may need modernisation in areas like central heating and double-glazing.
• Suburban Detached and Semi-Detached Homes: Generally well-built but could have issues like outdated wiring.
• Contemporary Flats: Typically meet high building standards but can have issues like inadequate soundproofing.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Chimney Stacks: In older terraced homes, these can often be in a state of disrepair and may need stabilising.
• Artex Ceilings: Found in older suburban homes, and can sometimes contain asbestos.
• Ventilation: Modern flats sometimes suffer from poor ventilation, leading to condensation and potential mould growth.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: An imperative step to identify any hidden issues, whether structural, environmental, or cosmetic.
• Land Registry Checks: Make sure to verify property boundaries and any rights of way that could impact your use of the property.
• Community Developments: Investigate future community projects or developments that could either positively or negatively affect property values.

Understanding the unique structural nuances of properties in Preston will better equip you to make an informed purchasing decision.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): Home Surveys Explained
• The Law Society: Buying and owning a leasehold home

Local Amenities in Preston

Grasping the breadth of local amenities is crucial when considering property choices in Preston. This vibrant city in Lancashire offers a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, ensuring a comprehensive living experience for its residents.

Food and Drink

• Cafés and Eateries: From artisan coffee shops to traditional tearooms, Preston offers an array of choices for casual dining.
• Restaurants and Pubs: A diverse range of culinary options, including international cuisines and classic British pubs, is readily available.

Shopping

• Fishergate Shopping Centre: Home to major retail brands and a wide range of shopping facilities.
• Preston Market: A revamped market offering fresh produce, crafts, and street food.

Health and Fitness

• Avenham and Miller Parks: These adjoining parks offer ample space for outdoor activities, including jogging and cycling.
• Leisure Centres: Numerous fitness centres are available, each equipped with modern amenities and a variety of classes.

Cultural Venues

• Harris Museum and Art Gallery: Offers a rich dose of local history and arts, with frequent exhibitions and events.
• Preston Guild Hall: A multipurpose venue hosting concerts, theatre productions, and other entertainment.

Education

• Schools: A diverse selection of high-performing state and private schools are available within the city.
• Universities: The presence of the University of Central Lancashire adds a vibrant student community and adult learning opportunities.

Transport Links

• Preston Railway Station: One of the major hubs in the North West, offering excellent connectivity to London, Manchester, and other cities.
• Bus Services: A comprehensive bus network provides ease of travel within the city and to neighbouring areas.

A deep understanding of the amenities in Preston can substantially influence your property decisions, be it for residential or investment opportunities.

Sources

• Preston City Council: Events and Culture
• Visit Preston

Commute and Transportation Options in Preston

When considering Preston as a possible location for property investment or residence, it’s essential to be aware of the commute and transportation options available. This guide is intended to furnish you with useful insights to make a more informed decision.

Public Transport

• Preston Railway Station: A significant hub on the West Coast Main Line, offering direct services to places like London, Manchester, and Glasgow.
• Bus Services: Companies such as Stagecoach and Preston Bus operate routes that serve the local and wider Lancashire area.

Car and Motorway Access

• M6, M55, and M65 Motorways: These motorways are conveniently accessible, connecting Preston to major cities including Manchester, Liverpool, and Blackpool.
• Key Roads: The A6 and A59 offer alternate routes for both local and regional commuting.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Services: A variety of local taxi firms are available, covering short-distance and longer journeys.
• Uber: Also operational in Preston, providing a modern and convenient transport alternative.

Cycling and Walking

• Local Cycle Networks: Preston has several dedicated cycling paths that connect to wider regional networks.
• Pedestrian-Friendly Zones: The city centre and key residential areas are designed to be accessible to pedestrians.

Future Developments

• Lancashire County Council Plans: Various initiatives are underway to improve public transport as well as walking and cycling facilities, promising better connectivity in the future.

Understanding the commute and transportation options in Preston can significantly shape your property investment or residential choice.

Sources

• Lancashire County Council: Transport and Travel
• Preston City Council: Transport

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Preston

When considering property acquisition or development in Preston, it’s essential to have a good grasp of planning permissions and land covenants. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investment veteran, this knowledge is indispensable.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This is a preliminary step, providing initial approval for a development project. However, you’ll need to submit further detailed plans for final consent.
• Full Planning Permission: This entails a comprehensive approval for a broad range of construction activities, from new builds to renovations and extensions.
• Permitted Development Rights: Certain minor modifications, like small extensions or internal alterations, may not require full planning permission.

Common Land Covenants in Preston

• Restrictive Covenants: These are limitations that dictate what you can and cannot do with your property. For example, you may be prohibited from operating a business or altering the building’s external appearance.
• Positive Covenants: These require the property owner to undertake certain responsibilities, such as maintaining shared spaces or communal areas.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: Preston falls under the jurisdiction of Preston City Council, which has its own Local Plans to guide property development.
• Conservation Areas: Some parts of Preston have been designated as conservation areas, which impose additional planning constraints.

Local Sources of Help

• Preston City Council Planning Services: This online platform provides valuable insights into planning applications, local planning policies, and other resources specific to Preston.
• Land Registry: An essential service for understanding existing land covenants and property ownership details.

Tips for Navigating the System

• Pre-application Consultation: Prior to submitting any planning applications, it’s beneficial to consult with Preston City Council to discuss your plans and identify any potential roadblocks.
• Legal Advice: Due to the complexity of land covenants, it’s advisable to seek legal guidance to understand your property’s obligations and limitations fully.

Equipped with this comprehensive guide on planning permissions and land covenants in Preston, you are well-prepared to make informed property decisions.

Sources

• Preston City Council: Planning
• HM Land Registry