When searching for a new home, most buyers step through the front door with a mental checklist of the internal features of a property. But what if the very first thing you notice isn’t the house itself, but what sits right next to it? An empty property, neglected with an overgrown garden, chipped paint and boarded up windows. This first impression can be a deal breaker, no matter how perfect the house itself may be.
Trafford’s Case
In Trafford, a property has been partially renovated and left empty for 18 years. Local residents have launched a petition calling for action on the empty property, arguing that its neglected state is having a negative impact on the surrounding community. Neighbours trying to sell their homes, many of which are valued at over £1 million, say the empty property is acting as a deterrent to potential buyers.
Why It Matters
Many buyers don’t just consider the property itself, but also the street, surrounding community and overall environment. An empty property nearby can serve as a red flag, raising concerns about attracting anti-social behaviour and potentially affecting resale value in the long term.
Buying An Empty Property
On the other hand, some buyers may be particularly interested in purchasing an empty property. These properties are often in significant disrepair or are hoarder houses sold at auctions as part of a deceased estate. They are typically offered at a lower price because they require renovation or refurbishment. This can be an excellent opportunity for the right buyer, knowing they have done the proper research and understand the costs of renovation and council premiums that can apply.
However, if managed poorly, the costs can build with unexpected expenses. Without careful planning, this can result in escalating costs and the cycle repeating itself.
What Can Councils Do?
Local authorities can apply council tax premiums to empty properties. The Empty Homes Premium (EHP) is an extra council tax charge applied in England to homes that have remained unoccupied and unfurnished for at least one year. This charge can act as an incentive to bring the empty home back into use.
Another approach is for councils to reach out to the owners of empty property. By making contact, they can encourage owners to bring the buildings back into use or complete any unfinished developments.
How Can Blanchards Help?
Blanchards specialises in identifying and tracing owners or living heirs of empty properties across the UK. In cases of intestacy, we locate the next of kin of the deceased property owners and offer property services to manage the empty home until the completion of sale.
Final Thoughts
Empty properties can negatively affect local communities, impact neighbours and reducing the value of surrounding homes. At Blanchards, we work to bring these properties back into use by tracing owners and identifying rightful next of kin. If you wish to report an empty property, contact us today.
