Why Period Homes Continue to Attract Buyers
When we first meet potential clients and start to chat about preferences it comes as no surprise to Chiltern Relocation that the desire for a period property is still very much at the heart of people’s ‘dream home’. With a wide range of eras to choose from: Georgian, Victorain, Edwardian or Arts and Crafts, it is no wonder that house hunters are drawn to these architectural gems for a mix of emotional, aesthetic and practical reasons.
Which period is which? Chiltern Relocation’s quick guide:
Georgian (1714-1830)
- Sash windows with smaller panes – tall windows on the first two floors and smaller windows on the top storeys
- Symmetrical flat exterior and balanced interior layout
- Stucco-fronted exterior rendered in a plaster material
- Render painted white or cream
- Often a bricked-up window as a result of the window tax in place of income tax
Victorian (1837-1901)
- Characterized by ornate detailing, bay windows and decorative brickwork
- Geometric tiled hallways
- A brickwork porch
- Stained glass windows
- Fireplace in many rooms
Edwardian (1901-1914)
- Original features such as fireplaces, cornices, wood panelling, stained glass windows and intricate mouldings
- Symmetrical façades, with balanced and evenly spaced windows and doors
- Rooms that are wide in dimension, as opposed to high ceilings
- Parquet flooring
Arts and Crafts (mid-19th century)
- Wooden joinery and exposed beams
- Lower pitched roof
- Built-ins spaces in the walls for shelving and cabinets
- Aesthetic features such as deep porches, bay windows, thick square columns
So, what is it about period properties that our clients fall in love with?
- Character and craftsmanship
Period homes often feature details that are hard to find in modern builds—high ceilings, fireplaces, sash windows, decorative plasterwork, solid wood doors and original flooring. Many feel these homes have “soul” and individuality and such detail is often lacking in more modern properties.
- Proportions and layout
Older houses often have larger rooms, higher ceilings and thicker walls. Even if the layout is more traditional, the sense of space and light can be very appealing. Many people fall in love with the double reception rooms with twin fireplaces and the feeling of being part of a piece of history.
- Established locations
Period properties are often in excellent locations and sought after roads. They are frequently found in the best parts of town close to the centre, transport links, schools and amenities.
- Perceived build quality and unique features
The durability of many period homes reinforces the perception that older homes were built with better materials and craftsmanship. No two period homes are the same. Many buyers feel strongly that they wish to have a distinctive property.
- Renovation potential
Some house hunters enjoy restoring or sympathetically updating a period property, seeing it as a chance to add value while preserving original features.
Whilst the appeal of a period property house is evident, Chiltern Relocation also cautions clients as to the potential additional costs of taking on an older property such as maintenance costs, energy efficiency and restrictions on alterations.
Over the past 20 years Chiltern Relocation has secured period homes for a range of clients and we have detailed their search journey in our Case Studies section on our website. This has included a wonderful Victorian property in central Beaconsfield, a Georgian property in Caversham, a Victorian property in Cookham and an Arts and Crafts house in Beaconsfield to name but a few.
If you are keen to source a period property and would like some help with your search then speak to Chiltern Relocation to find out more about our home finding and relocation service. Please do contact us on 01494 672086 or email enquiries@chilternrelocation.com.
