The average price of an English ‘chocolate box’ cottage is more than three times higher than UK average, new research from Jackson-Stops & Staff shows.
The average price of a cottage is £625,553 compared to a barn conversion at £697,728, an old rectory at £1,075,794, a farmhouse at £1,089,857 and a manor house at £2,102,344.
Cottages with a thatched roof will typically have cosy rooms, rustic beams, quaint features and date back to the 17th or 18th century.
However, they may not offer the best value for money.
The stereotypically roomier barn conversion and old rectory come in at around £288 per square foot and £234 per square foot on average respectively. Cottages are more expensive on this basis, at £320 per square foot.
Nick Leeming, Jackson-Stops & Staff chairman, said: “Our research shows that the feudal hierarchy is still alive and well when it comes to the quintessentially English homes that are most popular with buyers through our branches. The manor house, still the apex of the village, is the most expensive type of home, some 11 times more expensive than the UK average property price and more than a £1 million more expensive than the next typical English property type.
“Manor houses still carry a certain status, with their gracious architecture, long carriage drives and secluded gardens. For large families in a position to invest in a piece of history, manor houses actually offer better value for the space they provide than the less expensive farmhouse – so rather than being the exclusive domain of eccentric Miss Havershams, manor houses can be a savvy step up the property ladder for those who can afford the investment.
“The typical chocolate box cottage is the least expensive in our survey, however they do not offer the best value in terms of size. Of course, size isn’t everything, and our research indicates their enduring popularity, quintessentially English features and iconic status in British culture attracts a price premium.
“Despite having a tendency toward low ceilings, and smaller, compact rooms, these properties ooze traditional charm and are often breathtakingly beautiful.
“They certainly aren’t lived in by toiling serfs today; instead their small pretty gardens and compact dimensions mean they can make a manageable property for downsizers and retirees.”
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