Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Barnet

Property Market Trends in Barnet

Barnet, one of London’s largest boroughs, is known for its blend of urban and suburban lifestyles, attracting a diverse range of buyers including families, professionals, and those seeking proximity to both London and the countryside.

Suburban Charm and Family Appeal

• Finchley and East Barnet: These areas offer a mix of housing styles, from Victorian and Edwardian terraces to post-war semis, popular among families for their local amenities, parks, and schools.
• High Barnet and Totteridge: Known for their leafy streets and larger properties, these affluent areas attract buyers looking for spacious family homes with gardens.

Growth and Connectivity

• Whetstone and North Finchley: Offering a range of property types, these neighbourhoods are appealing due to their high street shopping, dining options, and accessibility to central London.
• Golders Green and Hampstead Garden Suburb: These areas, bordering the renowned Hampstead Heath, are sought after for their unique character homes and proximity to natural green spaces.

Regeneration and Investment

• Brent Cross and Cricklewood: The planned regeneration in these areas, including the redevelopment of Brent Cross Shopping Centre and new housing projects, is set to transform them into key residential and commercial hubs.
• Colindale: Once an industrial area, Colindale is witnessing significant development, with new apartment complexes and amenities, attracting first-time buyers and investors.

Influencing Factors

• Transport Links: Barnet’s multiple tube stations on the Northern Line and other transport links offer easy access to central London, making it a prime spot for commuters.
• Economic Stability: The borough’s stable economy, supported by a mix of local businesses and retail centres, underpins the housing market.
• Education and Lifestyle: The presence of top-rated schools and various cultural and leisure facilities, including arts centres and golf clubs, adds to Barnet’s appeal as a family-friendly location.

Staying informed about Barnet’s property market trends is crucial for those looking to invest in an area that offers the comforts of suburban living with the advantages of being close to central London.

Sources

• Rightmove: Barnet Property Market
• Barnet London Borough: Regeneration

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Barnet

Barnet’s property market features a diverse range of homes, from historic buildings in areas like High Barnet to suburban semi-detached houses and modern apartment complexes.

Common Types of Properties

• Period Properties in Older Districts: Such as those in High Barnet or Totteridge, these homes offer historic character but may require updates for modern conveniences and energy efficiency.
• 1930s Semi-Detached Houses: Common in many residential areas, these properties often provide spacious accommodation but might benefit from modernisation, especially regarding heating systems and insulation.
• Modern Developments: New housing estates and apartment buildings in Barnet provide contemporary living standards but should be evaluated for build quality and adherence to energy efficiency standards.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Damp and Mould: Older properties, particularly those with solid walls, can be susceptible to damp issues, necessitating improvements in damp-proofing and ventilation.
• Roofing Condition: The roofs of both period and mid-century homes should be carefully inspected, as maintenance or replacement can be significant expenses.
• Subsidence: Some areas in Barnet, especially those built on clay soil, may be more prone to subsidence, making a thorough structural survey advisable.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: A detailed survey by a RICS surveyor is crucial for uncovering potential structural issues that could impact the property’s value and future repair costs.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): An EPC provides an overview of the property’s energy efficiency and suggests areas for improvement.
• Local Planning and Development: Keeping abreast of local planning and development projects is important, as these can impact property values and the living environment.

Understanding the structural conditions and common issues in Barnet’s properties will help buyers make informed decisions, ensuring they are prepared for any potential maintenance or improvements required.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) – Why You Should Get a Home Survey
• London Borough of Barnet – Planning and Building Control

Local Amenities in Barnet

Barnet, one of London’s largest boroughs, blends suburban comfort with access to city amenities. Known for its green spaces, community spirit, and historical sites, it offers a variety of facilities and activities.

Food and Drink

• Diverse Cuisine: Barnet’s dining scene includes a range of restaurants featuring international cuisines, traditional British pubs, and cosy cafés.
• Farmers’ Markets: Regular markets in the borough offer fresh local produce, artisan foods, and specialty items.

Shopping

• High Street and Local Shopping Centres: The borough’s multiple high streets and shopping areas, like Brent Cross Shopping Centre, offer a mix of retail options, from high-street brands to independent shops.
• Specialty and Boutique Stores: Barnet has numerous specialty shops, particularly in areas like High Barnet and Finchley.

Health and Fitness

• Leisure Centres and Gyms: Facilities such as The Hive Gym and Finchley Lido offer swimming pools, gym equipment, and fitness classes.
• Parks and Open Spaces: Barnet is known for its parks and natural reserves, like Hampstead Heath and Totteridge Fields, great for outdoor activities and leisure.

Cultural Venues

• Arts and Theatre: The Arts depot and the Bull Theatre provide cultural entertainment, hosting theatre productions, concerts, and art exhibitions.
• Historical Sites: The borough has several historical sites, including the Battle of Barnet site and the Church Farmhouse Museum.

Education

• Schools: Barnet offers a wide range of educational facilities, including primary and secondary schools, both state and independent.
• Further Education: Barnet and Southgate College is one of the main providers of further education in the area.

Transport Links

• Rail and Underground Services: Barnet is well-served by the Northern Line and overground rail services, offering easy access to central London and other areas.
• Bus Network: An extensive bus network provides connectivity within the borough and to neighbouring areas.

Healthcare

• Hospitals and Clinics: The borough is served by several healthcare facilities, including Barnet Hospital and Finchley Memorial Hospital, along with numerous GP practices and health centres.

Barnet’s mix of urban and suburban amenities, extensive green spaces, and strong community feel make it a popular choice for families and professionals.

Sources

• Barnet Council: Parks, Sport and Leisure
• Barnet Times: Local News

Commute and Transportation Options in Barnet

Barnet, a suburban London borough in North London, offers various transportation options, making it accessible and well-connected:

Public Transport

• Underground and Overground Services: Barnet is served by several London Underground stations on the Northern Line, such as High Barnet, Totteridge & Whetstone, and Edgware. Additionally, there are London Overground services at stations like New Barnet and Oakleigh Park, providing connections to central London and other areas.
• Bus Services: An extensive network of bus routes covers the borough, connecting Barnet to other parts of London. These services are managed by Transport for London (TfL).

Car and Motorway Access

• Major Roads and Motorways: The A1 and the M1 motorway run through Barnet, providing direct routes to Central London and the North. The North Circular Road (A406) is also easily accessible, offering connections to various parts of London.
• Parking: There are multiple parking options available in Barnet, including on-street parking and council-operated car parks, especially useful in commercial and residential areas.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Companies: Various taxi firms operate in Barnet, offering local and airport transfer services.
• Uber: Uber and other ride-sharing services are widely available in Barnet, providing convenient travel options for residents and visitors.

Cycling and Walking

• Cycling: Barnet Council promotes cycling, and there are several cycle routes in the borough. Efforts are ongoing to improve cycling infrastructure to encourage sustainable travel.
• Walking: Many areas in Barnet are pedestrian-friendly, with local parks, high streets, and amenities accessible on foot.

Future Developments

• Transport Infrastructure Improvements: Continuous improvements to transport infrastructure, including road, cycling, and pedestrian facilities, are part of the council’s ongoing plans to enhance connectivity in Barnet.

Barnet’s transportation options, particularly its access to London Underground and Overground services, make it a convenient and attractive location for those commuting to central London or seeking suburban living within the capital.

Sources

• Transport for London: Barnet
• Barnet Council: Roads and pavements

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Barnet

For property development or modifications in Barnet, understanding the local planning permissions and land covenants is crucial. These regulations and legal agreements dictate permissible changes and ensure that developments align with local planning strategies and legal requirements.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This initial stage of permission assesses the general principles of a development, setting the stage for detailed plans that need to be submitted and approved for full consent.
• Full Planning Permission: Essential for specific construction works or significant alterations, this detailed permission must be obtained before any work starts.
• Permitted Development Rights: Some types of minor improvements and extensions may not require full planning permission. However, it’s important to check with the London Borough of Barnet, especially in areas with special designations or conservation considerations.

Common Land Covenants in Barnet

• Restrictive Covenants: These are legally enforceable conditions that can limit how a property is used or developed, such as preventing certain types of construction or specifying the use of the property.
• Positive Covenants: These require property owners to perform specific actions, like maintaining a shared boundary or contributing to communal infrastructure.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: The London Borough of Barnet’s Local Plan sets out policies and guidelines for development, influencing decisions on housing, commercial spaces, and environmental protection.
• Conservation Areas: Additional planning controls may be in place within conservation areas to preserve historical or architectural significance.

Local Sources of Help

• London Borough of Barnet Planning Services: Offers guidance on planning applications, including advice on local planning regulations and policies.
• Land Registry: The definitive source for information on property ownership and details of any land covenants.

Tips for Navigating the System

• Pre-application Consultation: Engaging with planning officers before submitting a formal application can provide insights into potential planning constraints and the likelihood of approval.
• Legal Advice: Considering the complexities of land covenants, seeking legal advice can be beneficial to fully understand their impact on your property.

Understanding the planning permissions and land covenants in Barnet ensures that property developments and alterations are compliant with local regulations and contribute positively to the community’s planning strategy.

Sources

• London Borough of Barnet: Planning and Building Control
• HM Land Registry