0:00:02 > 0:00:05Hello! Now, as you're probably aware, the property market varies
0:00:05 > 0:00:07as you travel to different parts of the country.
0:00:07 > 0:00:10It really does fluctuate wildly.
0:00:10 > 0:00:12Yeah. That can make it really difficult to decide
0:00:12 > 0:00:14where is best to buy.
0:00:14 > 0:00:15It's always best to do your research.
0:00:15 > 0:00:18And there are property auctions all around the country.
0:00:18 > 0:00:20It's not as difficult as you might think.
0:00:20 > 0:00:23So, why not buy your next home under the hammer?
0:00:49 > 0:00:50Here on Homes Under The Hammer,
0:00:50 > 0:00:53we have offered you two key pieces of advice
0:00:53 > 0:00:55more times than I can remember.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58That would always be - view the property and read the legal pack.
0:00:58 > 0:01:00You would have thought that, by now,
0:01:00 > 0:01:03everybody would follow what we say
0:01:03 > 0:01:05but you know what? That's not always the case.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08Did today's buyers follow our golden rules?
0:01:08 > 0:01:09Here's what they bought.
0:01:11 > 0:01:12I'm in St Austell, Cornwall,
0:01:12 > 0:01:16where this three-bedroom semi has hardly any worktop space.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19So, you've literally got...that.
0:01:20 > 0:01:23And at Lucy's two-bedroom mid-terrace in Croydon,
0:01:23 > 0:01:25you wouldn't want to work in that kitchen.
0:01:25 > 0:01:29There's bits of the outside hanging from the ceiling.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33And this former family centre in Southampton
0:01:33 > 0:01:37wouldn't suit a work-shy developer to make it habitable.
0:01:37 > 0:01:40This place is a maze - it goes on and on forever.
0:01:42 > 0:01:45All these properties have been sold at auction.
0:01:45 > 0:01:47We'll find out who bought them and what they paid
0:01:47 > 0:01:49when they went under the hammer.
0:01:49 > 0:01:50Well done.
0:01:54 > 0:01:58As counties go, Cornwall really is absolutely gorgeous.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02This is St Austell, a popular coastal town.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07Well, St Austell is one of the biggest towns in Cornwall
0:02:07 > 0:02:11and, as a result, it's got good road links and also a railway station.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15And, of course, all the shops and things like that you would expect.
0:02:15 > 0:02:16So, good news.
0:02:16 > 0:02:18The property I'm here to see
0:02:18 > 0:02:21is walking distance from the town centre and, yet, the price -
0:02:21 > 0:02:23well, not as high as you might think.
0:02:23 > 0:02:28£85-95,000 was the guide price for a three-bed semidetached.
0:02:28 > 0:02:29Let's have a look.
0:02:29 > 0:02:32I'm actually approaching the back of the property
0:02:32 > 0:02:35for reasons that will eventually become clear.
0:02:35 > 0:02:37What's also clear is the size of this semi
0:02:37 > 0:02:40and that there is plenty of parking space.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44So, you're sort of coming in at the back of the property
0:02:44 > 0:02:48and straight into what you would imagine is the kitchen.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51It's a big space, but I've never seen a kitchen
0:02:51 > 0:02:53with so little usable work surface.
0:02:53 > 0:02:55You've literally got...that
0:02:55 > 0:02:57in the whole kitchen.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59Now, maybe there's a unit that should go there,
0:02:59 > 0:03:01but I don't know how that fits in, anyway.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05Whatever. It is a kitchen that is desperately in need of a redesign.
0:03:05 > 0:03:08But it's certainly not a bad size.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11So through, if you like, working backwards through the property,
0:03:11 > 0:03:14you've got a large living room at the back of the property there,
0:03:14 > 0:03:18and a similar sort of equally-sized living room
0:03:18 > 0:03:19at the front of the property,
0:03:19 > 0:03:24benefiting from a kind of conservatory thing.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26What is it? Conservatory-porch thing. Whatever.
0:03:26 > 0:03:28A thing at the front of the house,
0:03:28 > 0:03:30which is catching lots and lots of light.
0:03:30 > 0:03:33Now, you want to get that light into the house as much as possible,
0:03:33 > 0:03:36so I would definitely be inclined to take out this wall
0:03:36 > 0:03:38and make it really open plan, all the way through,
0:03:38 > 0:03:42and maybe you can incorporate a kitchen redesign into that as well.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45You could almost have the whole of the ground floor
0:03:45 > 0:03:47as one big open plan space. That would be lovely.
0:03:47 > 0:03:52But for starters, yes, not seeing anything that I don't like, yet.
0:03:52 > 0:03:54Hmm. Sounding good.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58It is, actually, a really well-proportioned house.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00So, what have we got upstairs?
0:04:05 > 0:04:07That's not good.
0:04:07 > 0:04:12That is a fairly significant structural problem, that.
0:04:13 > 0:04:15Oh, deary me. OK.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19That explains the price, then.
0:04:19 > 0:04:21I know it's a cliche, but if it is too good to be true,
0:04:21 > 0:04:25it usually is, and that definitely needs to be investigated.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27However, in general, house here,
0:04:27 > 0:04:29space, light, downstairs, really good.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31You've got three bedrooms, bathroom,
0:04:31 > 0:04:33all in need of refurbishment
0:04:33 > 0:04:36and, as long as you know what's going on there,
0:04:36 > 0:04:40as long as you get it for a decent price, maybe it's not an issue.
0:04:41 > 0:04:43Bit of filler!
0:04:43 > 0:04:44I'm joking.
0:04:45 > 0:04:48Now, of course, the issue could be historical
0:04:48 > 0:04:52with movement stopping long ago and that would then be all well.
0:04:52 > 0:04:54But before you address the lack of central heating,
0:04:54 > 0:04:57or the antiquated electrics,
0:04:57 > 0:05:00I think a structural survey is in order, don't you?
0:05:01 > 0:05:05# Forget your perfect offering
0:05:07 > 0:05:14# There is a crack in everything
0:05:15 > 0:05:18# That's how the light gets in... #
0:05:21 > 0:05:24Time for a look outside, where I can finally see
0:05:24 > 0:05:26the beautiful colonial frontage of the house,
0:05:26 > 0:05:28but that's not what's caught my eye.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33So, in terms of access to the property, well,
0:05:33 > 0:05:35you've got car access at the back and, at the front,
0:05:35 > 0:05:38this kind of slope, which leads to a road,
0:05:38 > 0:05:40which goes right into the centre of town,
0:05:40 > 0:05:42so that's really good news.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45But out here is a garden.
0:05:45 > 0:05:46No kidding!
0:05:46 > 0:05:50But what I'm most interested in is where it goes to,
0:05:50 > 0:05:54because right through those trees and these bushes,
0:05:54 > 0:05:59farther than I can see, there is the boundary of the property.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01So the garden is absolutely massive.
0:06:01 > 0:06:05It's big enough, perhaps, to build an extension,
0:06:05 > 0:06:07or even a separate dwelling.
0:06:07 > 0:06:10Ooh! That's interesting.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12Now, most legal packs will give you an indication
0:06:12 > 0:06:14of where your property boundary is,
0:06:14 > 0:06:18but if there's any doubt, it is best to talk to the Land Registry.
0:06:20 > 0:06:22Time to get some other expert advice
0:06:22 > 0:06:25from the auctioneer who sold this property.
0:06:25 > 0:06:27What would he do with this semi, and ample land,
0:06:27 > 0:06:31guided at between 85 and 95 grand?
0:06:31 > 0:06:33If I bought this house, the first thing I'm going to do
0:06:33 > 0:06:35is either extend it,
0:06:35 > 0:06:38or build another one on the end.
0:06:38 > 0:06:39And while you're doing that,
0:06:39 > 0:06:42by definition, you're going to deal with any subsidence issues.
0:06:42 > 0:06:44So, two jobs in one.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47Once you've dealt with the subsidence, one way or another,
0:06:47 > 0:06:51to just turn this into as good as it can be,
0:06:51 > 0:06:56I suspect you'd struggle to spend £30,000 on it.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59And what about that extension, new house idea, in the garden?
0:06:59 > 0:07:01What might that cost?
0:07:02 > 0:07:04Off the gable end,
0:07:04 > 0:07:07to deal with the subsidence and to make the most of the asset,
0:07:07 > 0:07:10I'd go for building a three-bedroomed house,
0:07:10 > 0:07:13which would cost £70-80,000,
0:07:13 > 0:07:17depending on how big it was, and I reckon
0:07:17 > 0:07:23about 75-80 square metres would do it just right.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25But would that provide a return
0:07:25 > 0:07:28that was "just right" on the sales market?
0:07:28 > 0:07:29This house, in apple pie order,
0:07:29 > 0:07:34I can see on the market for about £235,000.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36The new three-bed, on the end,
0:07:36 > 0:07:40would be worth the better part of £200,000.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42So, if you do your research,
0:07:42 > 0:07:47particularly on that subsidence issue, this has to be worth a punt.
0:07:47 > 0:07:51# Let me take a chance on it... #
0:07:51 > 0:07:54Well, it is a lot of property
0:07:54 > 0:07:56and land for the money.
0:07:56 > 0:08:02Those historic problems, obviously, keeping the price down.
0:08:02 > 0:08:05As long as you know what you're letting yourself in for, though,
0:08:05 > 0:08:07and definitely get a structural survey,
0:08:07 > 0:08:10then it could be an absolute bargain.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13Let's see who spotted it when it went under the hammer.
0:08:13 > 0:08:17The guide is 85-95. 85? Good heavens.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20Who on earth's going to say 80, then? Get it going.
0:08:20 > 0:08:2280 we've got. 80, I've got 80. There it is. That simple.
0:08:22 > 0:08:25Is there two somewhere? Gotcha. 82.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27Got to ask you for a four now, I'm afraid. 84?
0:08:27 > 0:08:3084. 86. 87?
0:08:32 > 0:08:3487? 87.
0:08:34 > 0:08:3688, is you, sir. At 88?
0:08:36 > 0:08:39Looking for nine. At 88? Nine? 89.
0:08:39 > 0:08:40Do I see the 90?
0:08:42 > 0:08:4489 and a half, got you. 89 and a half.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46Slow to start, but eventually
0:08:46 > 0:08:50the bidding got going and we rejoin the auction at 102,000.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53102. 102 and a half?
0:08:53 > 0:08:57102 and a half. 102 and a half.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59For the first time.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02102 and a half for the second time.
0:09:02 > 0:09:06At 102 and a half. Three or not. Here we go.
0:09:06 > 0:09:09Sir, yours. Madame, I'm so sorry. 102 and a half.
0:09:09 > 0:09:12The successful bidders, at 102,500,
0:09:12 > 0:09:15were Tim, here on the right, and Malcolm, on the left,
0:09:15 > 0:09:18both of whom are involved in the running of a charity.
0:09:18 > 0:09:21I met Malcolm, the charity's asset director,
0:09:21 > 0:09:24with his tenant sustainment officer, Kate,
0:09:24 > 0:09:28who also runs the volunteer activities team.
0:09:30 > 0:09:33- Malcolm, Kate, great to meet you both.- Nice to meet you.
0:09:33 > 0:09:35Tell me why you wanted to buy this place.
0:09:35 > 0:09:40It was just a fantastic offer that came up that we saw.
0:09:40 > 0:09:41We looked at the property,
0:09:41 > 0:09:43because it's been derelict for about 18 months.
0:09:43 > 0:09:45When we actually saw it come on the market,
0:09:45 > 0:09:47we just thought, yeah, we definitely need it.
0:09:47 > 0:09:49It fitted quite well with our plans.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52Great. Tell me about your plans, then. What do you do?
0:09:52 > 0:09:54I sense there is a story here.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58- Well, we house homeless people across St Austell.- Oh, wow!
0:09:58 > 0:10:00We would like to do the same in this property as well.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03Bring it up to a five-bedroom place to house and support
0:10:03 > 0:10:06- homeless people in the area. - Is there a big need?
0:10:06 > 0:10:08Have you got a lot of homeless people here?
0:10:08 > 0:10:11Cornwall has got the fourth highest rough sleeper count in the country.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14So, yes, there is quite a demand in Cornwall.
0:10:14 > 0:10:18- And this is the first time you've expanded?- No.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21This is our fourth property that we've bought.
0:10:21 > 0:10:23All the others have been on the open market.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25We've leased two properties, bought two on the open market
0:10:25 > 0:10:28and this is our first auction property.
0:10:28 > 0:10:30So, Kate, what was it about this house in particular that you liked?
0:10:30 > 0:10:33Well, first of all, the location's fantastic.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36If we have any residents with mobility issues,
0:10:36 > 0:10:37they are very close to town.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40It's got a lovely aspect, enough room to, perhaps, develop
0:10:40 > 0:10:42and use the garden as well.
0:10:42 > 0:10:44And it's just the right size
0:10:44 > 0:10:47to house some of the lower support people that we've got at the moment.
0:10:47 > 0:10:50Right. So, what are the plans for it, then?
0:10:50 > 0:10:53Well, at this moment in time, we're going to convert it
0:10:53 > 0:10:57into a five-bedroomed accommodation but then, we're looking to make
0:10:57 > 0:11:01the actual main house to one-bedroom flats, starter flats,
0:11:01 > 0:11:03and then build on the side
0:11:03 > 0:11:06and have a two-bedroom starter home to sell on in the future.
0:11:06 > 0:11:07Oh, wow!
0:11:07 > 0:11:09So, Kate, talk me through the renovation plan.
0:11:09 > 0:11:11What have you got lined up?
0:11:11 > 0:11:14Well, one of our main things is to involve not only contractors
0:11:14 > 0:11:18but volunteers and also residents in the renovation of the property.
0:11:18 > 0:11:23So, we're going to totally renovate the inside,
0:11:23 > 0:11:25change a few of the doorways and things.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28So, there's not actually as much as we thought there was to do,
0:11:28 > 0:11:29which is fantastic.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31But we're hoping that, within three or four months,
0:11:31 > 0:11:35we'll be on our way to a nice five-bedroom property
0:11:35 > 0:11:36with a shared kitchen and lounge.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40And within your volunteer group, do you have contractors,
0:11:40 > 0:11:44- people who can do plumbing and electrics?- Absolutely.
0:11:44 > 0:11:45We have sprinkler systems,
0:11:45 > 0:11:47because we will be putting a sprinkler system in,
0:11:47 > 0:11:51electricians, that's with our own contractor database,
0:11:51 > 0:11:54but we also have volunteers that do electrical work,
0:11:54 > 0:11:57gardening work, painting and decorating.
0:11:57 > 0:12:00So, it's basically a lot of people get involved.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05So, let's just recap the separate stages of this worthwhile project.
0:12:05 > 0:12:09The grand scheme here is to convert the main house,
0:12:09 > 0:12:12with the addition of a possible extension into two flats
0:12:12 > 0:12:16and also add further affordable housing on the grounds here.
0:12:16 > 0:12:21All the properties will then be sold on to the benefit of the charity.
0:12:23 > 0:12:27This is, of course, all dependent on planning and, as we know,
0:12:27 > 0:12:29this can take some time.
0:12:29 > 0:12:31Rather than let the house lie empty,
0:12:31 > 0:12:34the charity will do a first stage renovation here.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36That not only gives them a head start
0:12:36 > 0:12:38on the work required on the main house,
0:12:38 > 0:12:41but will turn it into a five-bedroom shared house
0:12:41 > 0:12:44that will be used by residents that they work with at the charity,
0:12:44 > 0:12:47who are almost ready to live independently.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52Phew! So, what is the budget for the first stage?
0:12:52 > 0:12:56- Between, at the moment, £35-40,000. - Oh, wow!
0:12:56 > 0:12:58So, that's with getting it all done for free as well?
0:12:58 > 0:13:00Yeah, but we're going to put sprinkler systems in,
0:13:00 > 0:13:02but we're also going to make it that
0:13:02 > 0:13:05when we do convert to two flats, most of the work is already done.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08So, we're going to bring it up to building regulations,
0:13:08 > 0:13:10sprinkler systems, divide the electrics, etc.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12We're going to spend a lot of money on the gardens.
0:13:12 > 0:13:15- We've got a bit of structural works to do.- Yes.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18We're budgeting 35-40 and that includes the furnishings as well.
0:13:18 > 0:13:22Right. Let's talk about the structural things you mentioned.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24It does look like there's been
0:13:24 > 0:13:27a bit of subsistence at some point, perhaps.
0:13:27 > 0:13:29A bit of damp. What have you found out so far?
0:13:29 > 0:13:32Well, it's not as bad as we thought, which is fantastic.
0:13:32 > 0:13:35And if there is any underpinning to do,
0:13:35 > 0:13:38we will do that at the later stages,
0:13:38 > 0:13:41whether we decide to build onto the side or not.
0:13:41 > 0:13:46We've had a good look and had the surveying done and we think
0:13:46 > 0:13:49it's not too much of an issue for us to move forwards, at this stage.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51Well, listen, it's a really worthwhile project.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54- Lovely to hear about the charity. - Lovely. Thank you very much.
0:13:54 > 0:13:55- Good luck with it.- Thank you.
0:13:55 > 0:13:58- Look forward to seeing how you get on.- Thank you.
0:13:58 > 0:14:03Well, I always love it when properties go to worthwhile causes.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05Well, you could probably say that for whoever buys them
0:14:05 > 0:14:07it's a worthwhile cause, but you know what I mean.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10A great charity, housing homeless people,
0:14:10 > 0:14:13and it seems like the house is perfect for them
0:14:13 > 0:14:15with that opportunity as well
0:14:15 > 0:14:19of adding on to the side and generating much-needed funds.
0:14:19 > 0:14:23Fantastic. How will they get on? You can find out later in the show.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30Lucy's auction lot this time is Croydon, Greater London.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34It's an area that's seen a lot of changes over the years.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37Back in the '60s, they tore down the old town centre,
0:14:37 > 0:14:39built tower blocks to attract big businesses
0:14:39 > 0:14:43and slapped a big old road right through the middle of it.
0:14:43 > 0:14:4850 years on, and Croydon is reinventing itself once more
0:14:48 > 0:14:51with a £1 billion regeneration plan
0:14:51 > 0:14:55and these changes are impacting on South Croydon, too.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58This area is fast becoming known as the Restaurant Quarter,
0:14:58 > 0:15:00due to its choice of eateries and bars.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02# I'm coming up... #
0:15:02 > 0:15:04I'm here to see a two-bedroom mid-terrace
0:15:04 > 0:15:08and it had a guide price of £230,000.
0:15:08 > 0:15:12So far, I'd say my appetite has certainly been whet.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19And through the green door, what surprises do we have on the inside?
0:15:19 > 0:15:21It's a bit disappointing, isn't it?
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Big hole down there. Look at that!
0:15:23 > 0:15:28Now, that, to me, looks like a bit of a rotten old floorboard.
0:15:28 > 0:15:33Certainly get that looked at. And just very, very dated.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36Wallpaper coming off, carpets are all up. What's under here?
0:15:36 > 0:15:40Is that the stairs? No, that's a huge understairs cupboard.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42It's quite a traditional layout, this.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46The stairs are tucked around this corner here, so, you know,
0:15:46 > 0:15:50it would have been exactly as it was many, many years ago.
0:15:50 > 0:15:52Usually, I see the stairs tucked up here.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55So, it's quite unusual to see it like that.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58And, of course, there's just things that need doing.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00There's damp patches in the corner over there
0:16:00 > 0:16:03and the kitchen, don't even get me started!
0:16:03 > 0:16:07There's bits of the outside growing, hanging, from the ceiling.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10So, a lot of work needs to be done.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12There's not too much character on the inside,
0:16:12 > 0:16:16but it'd be quite nice to see some of it injected back into this house.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18So, not a great start internally.
0:16:21 > 0:16:26Rotten floorboards, shabby walls, and then that kitchen.
0:16:26 > 0:16:29# I can't go for that No, no can do
0:16:29 > 0:16:33# I can't go for that Can't go for that
0:16:33 > 0:16:35# Can't go for that, yeah! #
0:16:35 > 0:16:36More of that later.
0:16:36 > 0:16:38Upstairs, there are two bedrooms.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41The master at the front of the house is a good size,
0:16:41 > 0:16:44but it's showing signs of damp which need addressing,
0:16:44 > 0:16:46as well as a good bit of redecoration.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50Along the hallway to the back of the property
0:16:50 > 0:16:53is the second bedroom, which is a single,
0:16:53 > 0:16:57and is suffering from much the same problems as the master.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59And next door to that is the bathroom.
0:16:59 > 0:17:01Again, damp problems,
0:17:01 > 0:17:04and that bathroom suite is well beyond repair.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08# I can't go for that No, no can do... #
0:17:08 > 0:17:12But at least some light is shed on the garden from up here.
0:17:12 > 0:17:16The only access from the kitchen is firmly locked and blocked.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19A problem if you're a barbecue fan.
0:17:19 > 0:17:23Yes, you might have a lot of restaurants right on your doorstep,
0:17:23 > 0:17:26but you can't eat out every night, can you?
0:17:26 > 0:17:29Although, at the moment, well, you might want to.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32So, what can you do to improve this kitchen?
0:17:32 > 0:17:35First of all, it just needs to be ripped out, obviously, and replaced,
0:17:35 > 0:17:38but it's still a little bit on the snug side, I think.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41So, here is an idea for you,
0:17:41 > 0:17:44depending on the size of that mystery garden.
0:17:44 > 0:17:48How about extending to the side and out the back?
0:17:48 > 0:17:52Now, I know that does take a bit of imagination at the moment,
0:17:52 > 0:17:55but what a transformation that really would be.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58And it certainly is in need of transformation.
0:17:58 > 0:18:02At the very least utilising the small outside space
0:18:02 > 0:18:03to the side of the kitchen
0:18:03 > 0:18:06and, potentially, opening it out to the back reception room
0:18:06 > 0:18:09would make for a much more family friendly space.
0:18:09 > 0:18:13But, of course, building works like that won't come cheap,
0:18:13 > 0:18:16so we invited along a local estate agent to find out
0:18:16 > 0:18:18what type of profit could be hidden away
0:18:18 > 0:18:23in this troubled two-bed terrace, guided at 230,000.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25I think, first of all, whoever bought this property
0:18:25 > 0:18:27would need to do a full survey.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30Any rot, or anything like that, will need to be addressed very quickly.
0:18:30 > 0:18:32Other than that, the basic things like new kitchens,
0:18:32 > 0:18:34new bathrooms, flooring, walls,
0:18:34 > 0:18:37maybe taking it back to brick, re-skimming, that sort of thing.
0:18:37 > 0:18:39The kitchen's a small space at the moment,
0:18:39 > 0:18:43so if the current buyer could extend to the rear, somehow,
0:18:43 > 0:18:45maybe to the side as well, that'd be a fantastic bonus,
0:18:45 > 0:18:47making it a really nice open kitchen,
0:18:47 > 0:18:49maybe even a dining area there.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52But, of course, with any renovation, let alone major building works,
0:18:52 > 0:18:55it's all about managing that budget
0:18:55 > 0:18:58to ensure you see a good return on your investment.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00So, what does he think a house like this would sell for
0:19:00 > 0:19:02without an extension?
0:19:02 > 0:19:06This property, renovated, without doing any rear extensions,
0:19:06 > 0:19:09or anything, would sell for approximately £300,000.
0:19:09 > 0:19:11And with?
0:19:11 > 0:19:13If the property was to have a rear extension
0:19:13 > 0:19:16to the back of the kitchen, maybe, to open the area up,
0:19:16 > 0:19:20this property would sell for approximately 325,000,
0:19:20 > 0:19:23possibly even pushing up to the £330,000 mark.
0:19:23 > 0:19:27Hmm. So you need to be careful if you did decide to extend.
0:19:27 > 0:19:32The building costs, and a nice new kitchen, added to renovation costs,
0:19:32 > 0:19:35could make a big dent in any potential profit.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38So, getting this for around the guide price could be important.
0:19:38 > 0:19:40But what could it rent for?
0:19:42 > 0:19:44This property, as it is, renovated,
0:19:44 > 0:19:47would rent for approximately £1,200 per calendar month.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50Well, this property needs a lot of work.
0:19:50 > 0:19:53That, of course, means a lot of money, time and effort.
0:19:53 > 0:19:56Still, it's in an ever-improving location
0:19:56 > 0:19:59and there's potential here to extend.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02And who knows what's out there in that back garden?
0:20:02 > 0:20:05So, who was ready to transform that kitchen and cook up a storm?
0:20:05 > 0:20:08Let's go to auction and find out.
0:20:10 > 0:20:14Croydon. Hot area. Good area. Lot eight is a nice traditional house.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18I don't know, where would you like to start? Start 220?
0:20:18 > 0:20:20220?
0:20:20 > 0:20:21225?
0:20:21 > 0:20:22225.
0:20:22 > 0:20:23230.
0:20:23 > 0:20:26235.
0:20:26 > 0:20:27240.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31After a cautious start, the bidding soon picked up.
0:20:31 > 0:20:36We return when bids have reached 276,000.
0:20:36 > 0:20:37276.
0:20:37 > 0:20:38277.
0:20:38 > 0:20:39278.
0:20:39 > 0:20:41279.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43280.
0:20:43 > 0:20:44281.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47282.
0:20:47 > 0:20:49Have a think. 281 down here.
0:20:49 > 0:20:51Anywhere else? 281 down here.
0:20:51 > 0:20:52First time,
0:20:52 > 0:20:54second time,
0:20:54 > 0:20:56third and last time. Are you all done?
0:20:58 > 0:20:59Sold. 281.
0:21:00 > 0:21:06That successful bid of £281,000 - 51,000 over the guide price -
0:21:06 > 0:21:07was made by Armah.
0:21:09 > 0:21:12He's a part-time property developer with plenty of experience,
0:21:12 > 0:21:16but this time he was bidding on behalf of his brother Ansa.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18Lucy met Armah to find out more.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23- Armah, congratulations. - Thank you very much.
0:21:23 > 0:21:26What I want to know is everything about this house
0:21:26 > 0:21:29and why you ended up buying it at auction.
0:21:29 > 0:21:31It's a great area to invest in.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35You've got some great schools, it's a great starter house, for anybody.
0:21:35 > 0:21:36Great facilities close by.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39So, I know that you bought this on behalf of your brother,
0:21:39 > 0:21:41- haven't you?- That's correct. Yes.
0:21:41 > 0:21:42So, why is that?
0:21:42 > 0:21:46My brother lives up North, he lives in Manchester. I advised him on...
0:21:46 > 0:21:49He wanted an investment property, so I advised him on this property.
0:21:49 > 0:21:51He hasn't seen it yet as well.
0:21:51 > 0:21:55- Do you think he'll be happy? - I'm pretty sure he will be, yeah.
0:21:55 > 0:21:56So, you've got it now.
0:21:56 > 0:22:01What do you intend doing with it and how are you going to change it?
0:22:01 > 0:22:06A full refurb, brand-new windows, brand-new kitchen, bathroom,
0:22:06 > 0:22:09- new flooring, new plastering, skimming.- That's everything?
0:22:09 > 0:22:13- That's everything. - You're basically listing every single thing in this house.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15And the garden, the garden needs doing, as you can see.
0:22:15 > 0:22:20- You can't see the garden at all. It's full of trees.- That's funny.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22That garden is quite comical, actually,
0:22:22 > 0:22:24but you do have to go upstairs to see it.
0:22:24 > 0:22:27- I mean, that obviously didn't put you off.- No, it didn't, no.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29It kind of gave us an idea of, well,
0:22:29 > 0:22:32we got to have a look at the neighbour's garden and seeing
0:22:32 > 0:22:35that, it's quite a large garden, so there's definitely potential there
0:22:35 > 0:22:37if we wanted to extend further out.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40I really think that you could go to the side and to the back of
0:22:40 > 0:22:43this property, I think it would really transform it, wouldn't it?
0:22:43 > 0:22:45It would indeed, but there's always a question mark
0:22:45 > 0:22:47on how much that's going to cost,
0:22:47 > 0:22:49so we'd have to bear that one in mind as well.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51How much are you planning on spending here?
0:22:51 > 0:22:54We're looking to spend around about £25,000 for
0:22:54 > 0:22:56a full refurb of the property.
0:22:56 > 0:22:57It may go a bit slightly over,
0:22:57 > 0:23:01depending on what we end up doing with the kitchen, if we do decide
0:23:01 > 0:23:04to extend further out, so that would increase accordingly.
0:23:06 > 0:23:08So it looks like we'll have to wait to see if
0:23:08 > 0:23:11he decides to tackle that kitchen extension.
0:23:11 > 0:23:16Being a seasoned property developer, Armah has a team of trades ready
0:23:16 > 0:23:19and waiting to get started on the house and, with that help,
0:23:19 > 0:23:24he expects the work to be completed in eight to ten weeks.
0:23:24 > 0:23:26And then what do you want to do with the house?
0:23:26 > 0:23:30Are you going to try and sell it on or are you going to rent it out?
0:23:30 > 0:23:33We're going to rent it out. It's more for the long-term.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36- So this is a keeper for you? - Definitely, absolutely.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40So £25,000 budget. Not including the extension.
0:23:40 > 0:23:45- Do you think you can do it on that? - Pretty sure I can.
0:23:45 > 0:23:47Now, you are very confident.
0:23:47 > 0:23:50Tell me, is this because you've got so much experience?
0:23:50 > 0:23:53Yeah, my father has been developing properties for
0:23:53 > 0:23:56a number of years, so I've kind of grown up watching him do it.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58And I've done a few myself as well,
0:23:58 > 0:24:01so therefore I'm quite confident, given the size of the house,
0:24:01 > 0:24:04so we can easily get it done within that budget.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06You're just very cool, calm and relaxed at the moment.
0:24:06 > 0:24:09- Well, I hope you continue in that vein.- Thank you very much.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11- It's been lovely meeting you today.- You, too.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14I am really excited to see the outcome. Congratulations.
0:24:14 > 0:24:16Thank you very much.
0:24:16 > 0:24:20So, Armah is following in his father's property-developing footsteps,
0:24:20 > 0:24:23and he seems to be taking this project in his stride.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26But what will he decide about that kitchen extension,
0:24:26 > 0:24:30and what will he find lurking out there in the back garden?
0:24:30 > 0:24:32Let's hope he doesn't get stuck in the mud.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35Well, join us later on in the show to find out.
0:24:37 > 0:24:41Coming up, is this former family centre in Southampton just
0:24:41 > 0:24:44too vast to make a viable living space?
0:24:45 > 0:24:47This is a very, very big space.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53And we find out if Armah's two-bed terrace in Croydon
0:24:53 > 0:24:55gets the extension and the new kitchen.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04We're heading back to the beautiful Cornish coast to see a really nice
0:25:04 > 0:25:09three-bed semi that, though dated, offered plenty of space downstairs.
0:25:12 > 0:25:14So what have we got upstairs?
0:25:17 > 0:25:22That is a fairly significant structural problem, that.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26Oh, deary me.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29But I was over the moon when I saw the garden, because the potential
0:25:29 > 0:25:33here was sky-high to extend or even build an additional property here.
0:25:36 > 0:25:39Buying this property at auction on behalf of
0:25:39 > 0:25:44a local charity for £102,500 was Malcolm.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47Malcolm is the charity's asset director,
0:25:47 > 0:25:49and Kate is the tenant sustainment officer.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54- Well, we house homeless people across St Austell.- Oh, wow.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57We would like to do the same in this property as well.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00Bring it up to a five-bedroom place to house and support homeless
0:26:00 > 0:26:02- people in the area. - Is there a big need?
0:26:02 > 0:26:04Have you got a lot of homeless people here?
0:26:04 > 0:26:08Cornwall has got the fourth highest rough sleeper count
0:26:08 > 0:26:12in the country. So, yes, there is quite a demand in Cornwall.
0:26:12 > 0:26:15So they not only hope to transform this property,
0:26:15 > 0:26:18but also the lives of those who could call it home.
0:26:18 > 0:26:21The plan was in two stages to benefit the charity.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24First, they would renovate throughout and convert this
0:26:24 > 0:26:27home into a five-bed shared accommodation that can be
0:26:27 > 0:26:31used in the short term, whilst they apply for phase two.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35This would be to convert the house into two one-bedroom flats,
0:26:35 > 0:26:41and then they would hopefully add a detached home on the extra land.
0:26:41 > 0:26:44All the properties would then be sold to add to the charity's funds.
0:26:44 > 0:26:47So a complex yet worthwhile plan.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50They hope to have the five-bed accommodation up and running
0:26:50 > 0:26:51in three to four months,
0:26:51 > 0:26:55so we're back four months later to see if it's all gone to plan.
0:26:58 > 0:27:01And I'm happy to say that it has.
0:27:01 > 0:27:05The layout has seen massive changes downstairs.
0:27:05 > 0:27:08The old front room is now the shared living room.
0:27:08 > 0:27:12Next door is the galley kitchen. The clever thing is that this
0:27:12 > 0:27:15partition wall will easily come down when they make this
0:27:15 > 0:27:20the kitchen diner for the one-bedroom flat in phase two.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24By blocking this window, a downstairs shower room was possible.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27And it solved the problem of failing window lintels,
0:27:27 > 0:27:30which caused the crack on the stairs.
0:27:33 > 0:27:36At the back of downstairs, there are now two bedrooms.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42Upstairs, if I said there are still three bedrooms and a bathroom,
0:27:42 > 0:27:46you'd think not much layout has changed, but you'd be wrong.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49They've moved walls around internally to make the rooms
0:27:49 > 0:27:54of a more even size, and added space by bringing the old balcony inside.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00Everyone involved here really has done an amazing job,
0:28:00 > 0:28:03and the hard work is really evident in the garden.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07Malcolm has project managed this transformation,
0:28:07 > 0:28:10while Kate was organising help, not only with volunteers,
0:28:10 > 0:28:14but also the residents who would live here.
0:28:14 > 0:28:17We've already got two of the rooms occupied.
0:28:17 > 0:28:21And as soon as possible, we'd like to get the other three.
0:28:21 > 0:28:23In fact, we've already got people ready to move in,
0:28:23 > 0:28:26so we're really pleased, it's been such a quick turnaround.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29Our residents themselves decided they'd like to get involved
0:28:29 > 0:28:32with the garden and things, so we've had people
0:28:32 > 0:28:35helping with the paths, had people helping clear the ground,
0:28:35 > 0:28:38doing some physical work, and then also helping with some of the
0:28:38 > 0:28:41finer things, like planting the plants and laying the turf.
0:28:41 > 0:28:44It's been an all hands on deck sort of job, really,
0:28:44 > 0:28:46and we've had to go with the weather.
0:28:46 > 0:28:50We've just been really lucky to have volunteers from the community, and our own residence as well,
0:28:50 > 0:28:52so they've taken real ownership over the property.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54And so one of the initiatives we have is for people to grow
0:28:54 > 0:28:56their own food themselves.
0:28:56 > 0:29:00We've got some lettuce and things out there at the moment that people can enjoy.
0:29:00 > 0:29:02And it's a hobby as well, it's a positive use of people's time,
0:29:02 > 0:29:04for when they live here.
0:29:04 > 0:29:06And hopefully it's something that will be continued.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09That's a really nice idea.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12One thing that doesn't grow on trees, however, is money and
0:29:12 > 0:29:18it cost two grand more than their original £40,000 top budget.
0:29:18 > 0:29:21But they have already laid most of the ground work,
0:29:21 > 0:29:24so converting it into two flats will only take two to three weeks.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27But it's the planning stage that will take time.
0:29:29 > 0:29:33Well, we are looking to build two townhouses on here,
0:29:33 > 0:29:38with the idea of selling the whole lot as either affordable homes
0:29:38 > 0:29:43or whatever, for people to actually be able to live here and for people
0:29:43 > 0:29:45in St Austell to move in here,
0:29:45 > 0:29:48for us to be able to buy bigger properties
0:29:48 > 0:29:51further out into the country with the ethos of our charity.
0:29:52 > 0:29:56Well, it's time to ask two local estate agents round to find out
0:29:56 > 0:29:57their thoughts on the house
0:29:57 > 0:30:00and if converting to flats would be a good move.
0:30:00 > 0:30:02First, the agent who sold it
0:30:02 > 0:30:06and gave us his opinions before work started.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09My first impressions of the property are,
0:30:09 > 0:30:11I've come back to the wrong address.
0:30:11 > 0:30:15Because it's absolutely astounding what the chap and his team
0:30:15 > 0:30:18have done. Never seen anything like it.
0:30:18 > 0:30:20The layout, on the face of it,
0:30:20 > 0:30:24appears very specific to the charity's function.
0:30:24 > 0:30:28But when you just look a little bit closer, it wouldn't take
0:30:28 > 0:30:34anything to turn it into two really good sized one or two-bedroom flats.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37I think the layout changes are for the better.
0:30:37 > 0:30:41What we now offer is two very different styles of property.
0:30:41 > 0:30:44Whereas formerly, perhaps, we were looking at family accommodation,
0:30:44 > 0:30:49we're now appealing to investment buyers, maybe first-time buyers.
0:30:49 > 0:30:54I think the conversion's for the better in this location of town.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57As it stands, because it's not set up as a family home,
0:30:57 > 0:31:03the agents think it could be worth between 215 and 225,000.
0:31:03 > 0:31:08That would be an excellent pre-tax return on their £144,500 that
0:31:08 > 0:31:10they've invested. But what sort of prices
0:31:10 > 0:31:12would the two planned flats make?
0:31:14 > 0:31:16Individually, as one-bedroom apartments,
0:31:16 > 0:31:22I would feel £110,000-£120,000 would be appropriate.
0:31:22 > 0:31:24The two flats, ground and first floor,
0:31:24 > 0:31:26would be worth a similar amount,
0:31:26 > 0:31:29depending on how much garden space went with each.
0:31:29 > 0:31:36I would imagine they'd be viably on the market at around £120,000.
0:31:36 > 0:31:37Yes, again, that's roughly the ballpark.
0:31:37 > 0:31:40We've had a slightly higher figure, but I would say that's roughly
0:31:40 > 0:31:43in the ballpark figure that we're looking at, which is pretty good.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46Well, I've been really impressed with this wonderful renovation,
0:31:46 > 0:31:49but more so with the work that Malcolm, Kate and all the
0:31:49 > 0:31:51volunteers do for the charity.
0:31:51 > 0:31:56And I'm sure this house will have a big impact on people's lives.
0:31:56 > 0:31:58It's fantastic, because some of the guys and girls that are
0:31:58 > 0:32:01moving into here are ready for independent living.
0:32:01 > 0:32:05It's just that last step for that, so we don't bed block in any of our
0:32:05 > 0:32:08other properties, so this is very low support,
0:32:08 > 0:32:10just getting ready, getting used to sharing
0:32:10 > 0:32:13a house with other people, having that amount of freedom,
0:32:13 > 0:32:16yet still the security to fall back on should there be any problems.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19People can't believe the turnaround.
0:32:19 > 0:32:23They are absolutely enamoured with the state of the rooms now,
0:32:23 > 0:32:25the quality of finish that we've managed to achieve
0:32:25 > 0:32:27in such a short amount of time,
0:32:27 > 0:32:28and they're really keen to let us know
0:32:28 > 0:32:30that it really makes a difference
0:32:30 > 0:32:31to how they're feeling in themselves
0:32:31 > 0:32:33to have such a lovely place to live.
0:32:36 > 0:32:40Bitterne is a suburb of east Southampton.
0:32:40 > 0:32:45It was once a tiny hamlet with a few large houses surrounded by farmland.
0:32:45 > 0:32:49Road links encouraged further development and in the 1950s
0:32:49 > 0:32:53cottages were demolished and farmland used to build new houses.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55Bitterne has great access to the motorway,
0:32:55 > 0:32:57but still has a nice, rural feel,
0:32:57 > 0:32:59while being close to the city.
0:32:59 > 0:33:03The property I'm here to see is on a busy and noisy road,
0:33:03 > 0:33:08but the good news is it's on the main bus route into Southampton.
0:33:08 > 0:33:13Now, it's a detached property with a guide price of £280,000
0:33:13 > 0:33:15and recently used for a family centre.
0:33:15 > 0:33:18Here it is, let's take a look.
0:33:18 > 0:33:21It's also been a guest house and small hotel,
0:33:21 > 0:33:25business uses that fall into the C planning category.
0:33:25 > 0:33:29Push-button opener, that's a commercial feel straight away.
0:33:29 > 0:33:33Nice big hallway, though, lots of space, nice, big, high ceilings.
0:33:33 > 0:33:35Lovely detail as well at the top.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37In this room...
0:33:37 > 0:33:40Decent size with a nice bay window.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42Gives the game away a little bit - "reception" it says there.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45Through over the hallway to this way.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47This is a very, very big space.
0:33:47 > 0:33:49Bit of a kitchen at the back there.
0:33:49 > 0:33:51It just needs a bit of an update.
0:33:51 > 0:33:54Again, some more lovely features in the ceilings,
0:33:54 > 0:33:56but this is not a bad start, actually.
0:33:56 > 0:33:57What else am I going to find?
0:33:59 > 0:34:02Well, just on the opposite side of the corridor is a room -
0:34:02 > 0:34:04I'm going to call it the pink room.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09Further down the corridor, there is a laundry and toilet.
0:34:11 > 0:34:14Opposite the laundry, you enter the main hall,
0:34:14 > 0:34:18which is big enough for large functions or parties.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20It could even be a conference room or training room,
0:34:20 > 0:34:22with its own kitchen facility.
0:34:24 > 0:34:25This place is a monster
0:34:25 > 0:34:30and there are still two more floors to look around.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33A lovely, wide staircase. As you come to the centre of the stairs,
0:34:33 > 0:34:36a lovely big window there, lots of light coming in,
0:34:36 > 0:34:38which is great, but this place is a maze.
0:34:38 > 0:34:41It goes on and on forever and ever.
0:34:41 > 0:34:44Now, what am I going to discover up here?
0:34:44 > 0:34:47I'm not too sure - do I go left or do I go right?
0:34:47 > 0:34:48I'm going to go left.
0:34:48 > 0:34:50But I'll need to get a move on.
0:34:53 > 0:34:57So, on the first-floor level, we have family room one,
0:34:57 > 0:35:00family room two,
0:35:00 > 0:35:02a hall with fire exit,
0:35:02 > 0:35:05large bathroom, interview room,
0:35:05 > 0:35:08manager's office and store,
0:35:08 > 0:35:13staff WC, kitchen and large office.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16There are also three further rooms at the front of the house.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18That's the first floor.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22The second floor is accessed from the front landing area
0:35:22 > 0:35:24and comprises of a toilet...
0:35:25 > 0:35:28..room one,
0:35:28 > 0:35:29room two...
0:35:31 > 0:35:32..room three...
0:35:34 > 0:35:36..and room four.
0:35:36 > 0:35:38I'm in no hurry to go down there,
0:35:38 > 0:35:43but the basement has two storerooms, a toilet and a garage.
0:35:43 > 0:35:45Then there's the outside space.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50Not only do you get a huge car park with a big, substantial property,
0:35:50 > 0:35:52I've got a little hidden gem to show you
0:35:52 > 0:35:55even further back than the car park itself.
0:35:55 > 0:35:57Look at all this space back here.
0:35:57 > 0:36:01It goes a long way over there and it goes not so far there,
0:36:01 > 0:36:03but it is a huge piece of land.
0:36:03 > 0:36:07Could be a lovely garden or even a building plot.
0:36:09 > 0:36:11Of course, any plans for this lot
0:36:11 > 0:36:13would involve not just planning permission,
0:36:13 > 0:36:16but applying for the change of use for the main building.
0:36:16 > 0:36:21It has been a whole lot of things before, but what could it be now?
0:36:21 > 0:36:24Time to ask a local estate agent.
0:36:24 > 0:36:25Let's start with the back area.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30I think getting planning permission for doing something there
0:36:30 > 0:36:33shouldn't be too much of a problem.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36Based on the space that I can see and its surroundings,
0:36:36 > 0:36:39some small dwellings should be able to be put up there
0:36:39 > 0:36:41without too much complication.
0:36:41 > 0:36:42If the agent is correct,
0:36:42 > 0:36:46then that could make this a very lucrative venture.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49What could the small dwellings add to the venture
0:36:49 > 0:36:52if developed on the back plot?
0:36:52 > 0:36:54Realistically, the three-bedroom semis
0:36:54 > 0:36:56you'd probably look to sell for around 250 each.
0:36:56 > 0:36:59Depending on their specification, maybe slightly less,
0:36:59 > 0:37:02but somewhere between 220 and 250.
0:37:02 > 0:37:05And if you were to do smaller terraced properties,
0:37:05 > 0:37:09two-bedrooms or one-bedrooms, you're probably looking anywhere
0:37:09 > 0:37:12between about 150 and 180 per property.
0:37:12 > 0:37:14OK, but what about the building itself?
0:37:14 > 0:37:17What potential does the agent see here?
0:37:17 > 0:37:19Putting a value on probably what would probably be
0:37:19 > 0:37:22like a 10, 12-bedroom house is a bit tricky,
0:37:22 > 0:37:24but probably around the region of
0:37:24 > 0:37:27round about £1 million, I should imagine.
0:37:27 > 0:37:31But a 12-bedroom property is going to have limited appeal.
0:37:31 > 0:37:33What about the other option?
0:37:33 > 0:37:36I'd probably be quite inclined from an ease perspective
0:37:36 > 0:37:38to make it into student lets.
0:37:38 > 0:37:40Yes, I can see that working,
0:37:40 > 0:37:43and the agent thinks that this would bring in
0:37:43 > 0:37:46around £350 per room per calendar month.
0:37:46 > 0:37:50But what if you really wanted to maximise the profit on this lot,
0:37:50 > 0:37:53guided at 280 grand?
0:37:53 > 0:37:55I would probably make it into separate dwellings,
0:37:55 > 0:37:57one-beds or studios,
0:37:57 > 0:38:00and have those privately rented.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03There are so many possibilities here,
0:38:03 > 0:38:07so potential costs of redevelopment are anyone's guess at this stage.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09But assuming that this was turned into
0:38:09 > 0:38:13the maximum number of one-bed flats allowed by planning,
0:38:13 > 0:38:15what valuation could we be looking at?
0:38:17 > 0:38:20If the properties were renovated into separate apartments,
0:38:20 > 0:38:24I feel the property could be worth in excess of £1.2-£1.3 million.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26Depending on what you do with it,
0:38:26 > 0:38:29what kind of rental income could this building reap?
0:38:29 > 0:38:32I think you'd look to achieve round about
0:38:32 > 0:38:34£5,000-£5,500 per calendar month.
0:38:34 > 0:38:38That would be dependent on what type of separate dwellings were in here,
0:38:38 > 0:38:40whether they were studios, one-beds, vice versa.
0:38:40 > 0:38:43Obviously, you wouldn't be able to fit as many of them
0:38:43 > 0:38:45as if you were just doing student let rooms,
0:38:45 > 0:38:49but you can obviously demand a higher value for those properties.
0:38:50 > 0:38:53If ever you wanted a property with space and potential,
0:38:53 > 0:38:54then this is definitely it,
0:38:54 > 0:38:57but it's not going to be a project for the faint-hearted.
0:38:57 > 0:38:59There's a lot of work to be done here.
0:38:59 > 0:39:01Let's see who wanted it when it went to auction.
0:39:01 > 0:39:02Right, ladies and gentlemen,
0:39:02 > 0:39:04somebody prepared to get me underway?
0:39:04 > 0:39:05Opening bid - what can we say?
0:39:05 > 0:39:07275.
0:39:07 > 0:39:10275 here in the room. Thank you very much.
0:39:10 > 0:39:13275 I've got. Now looking at 280.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16Second bid in the room at 280, thank you. 280.
0:39:16 > 0:39:18With the guide price exceeded,
0:39:18 > 0:39:23bidding intensified to where we rejoin at £370,000.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25370 we have.
0:39:25 > 0:39:28375 standing now.
0:39:28 > 0:39:30380? 380 we have.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34- 385.- Two bidders then battled for the property.
0:39:34 > 0:39:39We rejoin with the auctioneer looking for 499 grand.
0:39:39 > 0:39:41499?
0:39:41 > 0:39:45The round 500. 500 we've got.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48501, he comes straight back in. Shall we do it in twos?
0:39:48 > 0:39:49Might get there quicker. 503?
0:39:49 > 0:39:52503.
0:39:52 > 0:39:56505. He shakes his head. You're at 503, that's your bid.
0:39:56 > 0:39:59503 for the first time. "Hurry up," she says.
0:39:59 > 0:40:00503 for the second time.
0:40:02 > 0:40:05503, it's going, third and final time.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07- HAMMER FALLS - Well done.
0:40:07 > 0:40:10- 503. - The successful bid came from Nina,
0:40:10 > 0:40:14at the auction with her operations manager Andrew.
0:40:14 > 0:40:18She was hoping not to pay any more than 450 grand,
0:40:18 > 0:40:22but carried on to £503,000 to secure the property.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26Nina runs her own service department company
0:40:26 > 0:40:29and has been buying and selling property for ten years,
0:40:29 > 0:40:31so what's in store for this?
0:40:32 > 0:40:35- Nina, nice to meet you and congratulations.- You too, thank you.
0:40:35 > 0:40:38Tell us what you've got in mind for something of this size.
0:40:38 > 0:40:43Splitting it down into smaller residential-style units
0:40:43 > 0:40:46and renting it to professionals.
0:40:46 > 0:40:48And how many are you hoping to...?
0:40:48 > 0:40:50- You could...- Somewhere upward of 20,
0:40:50 > 0:40:52- depending on the council.- Wow!
0:40:52 > 0:40:56Really? Now, there's even more space at the back of the property.
0:40:56 > 0:40:59- You've got a huge back garden. - Yes.- And it goes further.
0:40:59 > 0:41:01What are your plans for that as well? Anything at all?
0:41:01 > 0:41:04Hopefully, we'll get planning for a couple of houses
0:41:04 > 0:41:06with some nice gardens down there.
0:41:06 > 0:41:08- It would be nice, wouldn't it? - It'd be the icing on the cake.
0:41:08 > 0:41:09What's your budget on this?
0:41:09 > 0:41:12Cos you've already spent over your budget, really,
0:41:12 > 0:41:13on buying the property.
0:41:13 > 0:41:19Um, the budget at the moment is easily 150, up to 200 so...
0:41:19 > 0:41:23- Wow.- Yeah. - Does that include all the build?
0:41:23 > 0:41:26It includes the build for the existing property,
0:41:26 > 0:41:28but there would be an additional budget
0:41:28 > 0:41:32if we were to get the planning to put the properties in the garden,
0:41:32 > 0:41:37so I would anticipate for each house about 75,000 to build.
0:41:37 > 0:41:39Do you have the same team of builders?
0:41:39 > 0:41:41- Yeah.- New guys? - No, they're all employed.
0:41:41 > 0:41:45- They're doing another project at the moment, so...- Your project?- Yeah.
0:41:45 > 0:41:47They'll be coming here after.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50And timescales as well, if you want to turn it around.
0:41:50 > 0:41:51Six to nine months.
0:41:51 > 0:41:54- Six to nine months to get it from this to your completed...?- Yep.
0:41:54 > 0:41:57What are you like as a boss? Strict?
0:41:57 > 0:42:00- You'll have to ask them. - Yes, I'm sure.
0:42:00 > 0:42:02It's quite a family environment.
0:42:02 > 0:42:04I don't think I'm that strict.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06Their manager is strict, their project manager,
0:42:06 > 0:42:10so I can probably come in and be nice to them and say to him
0:42:10 > 0:42:15what I want doing and that's where the mean side of it is.
0:42:15 > 0:42:18Tell me, how many people will be working on this at one time?
0:42:18 > 0:42:19There'll be at least six.
0:42:19 > 0:42:23So, tell me, if you don't get the planning that you are looking for
0:42:23 > 0:42:25for the property, what are you going to do with it, then?
0:42:25 > 0:42:29Well, it just depends which class they allow us to put it into,
0:42:29 > 0:42:31whether it can be fully residential,
0:42:31 > 0:42:33or whether it has to go down as something like an aparthotel,
0:42:33 > 0:42:36so, one way or another, change of use will be allowed,
0:42:36 > 0:42:38it just depends which class they change it into.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41An aparthotel is a creative idea.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45That's a building with apartments and guest rooms for rental,
0:42:45 > 0:42:49usually with a lobby and staffed a bit like a hotel.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52Nina would still need planning and a licence for this,
0:42:52 > 0:42:55and it's not her plan-A idea.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57She knows she might have to be flexible,
0:42:57 > 0:42:59but she's wisely got a planning consultant
0:42:59 > 0:43:03working on this project with her to navigate the planning regulations.
0:43:03 > 0:43:06For the moment, she hopes she will be renting
0:43:06 > 0:43:0920-odd self-contained units to young professionals.
0:43:09 > 0:43:12Are they going to be short-term lets, long-term lets?
0:43:12 > 0:43:13What's your plan?
0:43:13 > 0:43:16If it goes the way I want it to, then it'll be three months plus.
0:43:16 > 0:43:18You must be so excited.
0:43:18 > 0:43:21- I can't wait.- You must be. You can't wait to get stuck in? - I can't wait for it to be finished.
0:43:21 > 0:43:24- Listen, I wish you all the best. Very nice to meet you.- Thank you.
0:43:24 > 0:43:26And I hope you get that planning permission.
0:43:26 > 0:43:29- Thank you very much.- Pleasure.
0:43:29 > 0:43:31So the future of this property
0:43:31 > 0:43:33is totally in the hands of the planners.
0:43:33 > 0:43:36Will Nina get the permission she needs to turn it around
0:43:36 > 0:43:39and will she also get the additional planning
0:43:39 > 0:43:41for the houses at the back of the property?
0:43:41 > 0:43:43You can find out later on in the programme.
0:43:46 > 0:43:48We've seen how one of our developers got on,
0:43:48 > 0:43:50but what about the other two?
0:43:50 > 0:43:52- How are things going? - Let's find out.
0:43:54 > 0:43:57Back now to the much sought-after London borough of Croydon,
0:43:57 > 0:44:00where Lucy looked at this two-bedroom, mid-terrace property.
0:44:03 > 0:44:07Damp, dilapidated and dull, it needed a complete makeover,
0:44:07 > 0:44:09not only inside, but also outside.
0:44:10 > 0:44:12It was very overgrown
0:44:12 > 0:44:14and maybe it was just as well the key was missing,
0:44:14 > 0:44:19but fear not - there was a whisper of potential.
0:44:19 > 0:44:24Here is an idea for you, depending on the size of that mystery garden.
0:44:24 > 0:44:28How about extending to the side and out the back?
0:44:28 > 0:44:31Now, I know that does take a bit of imagination at the moment,
0:44:31 > 0:44:34but what a transformation that really would be.
0:44:34 > 0:44:37# Imagination
0:44:37 > 0:44:40# Is funny
0:44:40 > 0:44:42# It makes a cloudy day
0:44:42 > 0:44:44# Sunny... #
0:44:45 > 0:44:47The man with the imagination was Armah.
0:44:47 > 0:44:49A part-time property developer,
0:44:49 > 0:44:53he bought this terrace at auction for 281,000.
0:44:54 > 0:44:57Experienced Armah was actually buying the property
0:44:57 > 0:45:00on behalf of his older brother Ansa
0:45:00 > 0:45:02as a long-term rental investment.
0:45:04 > 0:45:07He had plans for a total renovation of the property
0:45:07 > 0:45:10and also hoped to extend depending on costs,
0:45:10 > 0:45:13but it was his budget that had Lucy worried.
0:45:13 > 0:45:16So £25,000 budget,
0:45:16 > 0:45:18not including the extension.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21Do you think you can do it on that?
0:45:21 > 0:45:23Pretty sure I can.
0:45:23 > 0:45:25So Armah was confident with his plans,
0:45:25 > 0:45:30which he hoped would take just two months to complete.
0:45:30 > 0:45:32Well, we've come back ten months later
0:45:32 > 0:45:35and the outside is looking much smarter,
0:45:35 > 0:45:37but can the same be said for the inside?
0:45:45 > 0:45:48Yes, they have extended out into that former jungle,
0:45:48 > 0:45:52making the kitchen far bigger and much more desirable.
0:45:55 > 0:45:58We had a door here leading into the kitchen,
0:45:58 > 0:46:00so therefore we decided to knock the wall down,
0:46:00 > 0:46:03provide a steel beam for the support,
0:46:03 > 0:46:05so we could create an open-plan kitchen.
0:46:08 > 0:46:12The new extension is obviously a massive improvement,
0:46:12 > 0:46:14and in the rear reception they've gone to the trouble
0:46:14 > 0:46:17of removing the chimney breast to create more space.
0:46:17 > 0:46:18Very clever.
0:46:29 > 0:46:31The front reception, like everywhere else in this property,
0:46:31 > 0:46:35has been re-floored, replastered, re-skimmed and, well,
0:46:35 > 0:46:37redone to a wonderful level.
0:46:44 > 0:46:48Each bedroom is neutrally decorated and partially furnished,
0:46:48 > 0:46:51with the smaller bedroom also having the chimney breast removed
0:46:51 > 0:46:52to create space.
0:46:57 > 0:47:01The bathroom, much like the kitchen, is unrecognisable,
0:47:01 > 0:47:03with a fantastic modern suite installed,
0:47:03 > 0:47:05complete with a shower and bath.
0:47:09 > 0:47:12The jungle has been beaten back a little,
0:47:12 > 0:47:14and even though the extension eats into it,
0:47:14 > 0:47:18it still leaves a respectable-sized garden.
0:47:18 > 0:47:21Give him his due - Armah has gone the extra mile in making
0:47:21 > 0:47:24a fantastic contemporary home ready for the rental market.
0:47:26 > 0:47:29However, it is a pretty high-end finish here.
0:47:29 > 0:47:33How is that contentious 25 grand budget looking?
0:47:33 > 0:47:37We've spent in total round about 34,000,
0:47:37 > 0:47:42maybe a few more thousands just to complete the garden as well,
0:47:42 > 0:47:45so probably looking at an overall cost of 35,000-36,000
0:47:45 > 0:47:48and the biggest cost was the extension
0:47:48 > 0:47:50onto the kitchen.
0:47:50 > 0:47:52The works did take about three to four months,
0:47:52 > 0:47:55purely because there was a lot of breaks in between.
0:47:55 > 0:47:58The biggest challenge of the project was probably the extension,
0:47:58 > 0:48:00cos we did start it in the winter months,
0:48:00 > 0:48:03so, due to bad weather, there were a few delays as well,
0:48:03 > 0:48:06so there was work starting, then work stopping,
0:48:06 > 0:48:07which is always not nice,
0:48:07 > 0:48:11but that's what happens with extensions as well.
0:48:13 > 0:48:15Remember, Armah was actually doing this
0:48:15 > 0:48:17on behalf of his older brother Ansa
0:48:17 > 0:48:20and I'm happy to report that he's delighted with the refurbishment
0:48:20 > 0:48:24and his investment, which stands at around £317,000.
0:48:28 > 0:48:31So with Ansa still keen on renting out the property
0:48:31 > 0:48:34on a long-term basis, it'll be interesting to hear
0:48:34 > 0:48:36what two local estate agents think,
0:48:36 > 0:48:38starting with the agent who saw it originally.
0:48:40 > 0:48:43I'm really glad that the owners have taken the opportunity
0:48:43 > 0:48:45to extend the property.
0:48:45 > 0:48:48I think it is 100% the right thing to do, it's added a lot more space
0:48:48 > 0:48:50on the ground floor and it's what the property really needed.
0:48:50 > 0:48:53The property has been finished to a really high standard
0:48:53 > 0:48:55and there's been no expense spared on this property,
0:48:55 > 0:48:57which I'm really pleased about. You can see that the vendor
0:48:57 > 0:48:59has obviously done this before and, yeah,
0:48:59 > 0:49:01all throughout, I think it's a great property.
0:49:01 > 0:49:04The big selling point is definitely the space on the ground floor
0:49:04 > 0:49:06and also the bathroom upstairs.
0:49:06 > 0:49:08I suppose you could also say that the bedrooms are very equally sized
0:49:08 > 0:49:10and that's good if you're renting -
0:49:10 > 0:49:12two double bedrooms is great to have.
0:49:12 > 0:49:14Well, they are planning to rent,
0:49:14 > 0:49:18but perhaps the agents' sale valuations will change their minds.
0:49:18 > 0:49:23This property would go on the market at approximately £350,000.
0:49:23 > 0:49:25If we had the opportunity to market this property,
0:49:25 > 0:49:27we'd be marketing this property at £370,000.
0:49:27 > 0:49:30I think 350 is slightly on the lower side,
0:49:30 > 0:49:34given this property and the standard of refurbishment done.
0:49:34 > 0:49:39There has been a sale on the street for round about the 350 mark,
0:49:39 > 0:49:42but it wasn't refurbished to this standard,
0:49:42 > 0:49:47so this property could easily achieve round about 360-365.
0:49:47 > 0:49:51Well, if they were able to achieve 365
0:49:51 > 0:49:55that would mean a potential pre-tax profit of around £48,000,
0:49:55 > 0:49:56very nice,
0:49:56 > 0:49:58but what about those rental figures?
0:50:00 > 0:50:03This property would rent very comfortably
0:50:03 > 0:50:05for £1,300 per calendar month.
0:50:05 > 0:50:08We'd be marketing this property at £1,400 per calendar month.
0:50:08 > 0:50:12That top valuation would mean a rental yield of just over 5%,
0:50:12 > 0:50:15so, with this project almost complete,
0:50:15 > 0:50:18Armah is looking forward to his next auction visit.
0:50:20 > 0:50:24I think, when the hammer goes down, you know it's yours and it can be
0:50:24 > 0:50:28always a slightly trickier process if you're buying on the open market.
0:50:33 > 0:50:35Time to head back to Hampshire now
0:50:35 > 0:50:39and the suburb of Bitterne near Southampton.
0:50:39 > 0:50:42It was here I looked around this substantial detached property
0:50:42 > 0:50:45that had a guide price of 280 grand.
0:50:45 > 0:50:50It had already been a guest house and a small hotel in its life.
0:50:50 > 0:50:54It had most recently served as a family centre.
0:50:54 > 0:50:57# I am your family tree
0:50:57 > 0:50:59# I know your A to Z... #
0:50:59 > 0:51:03Lovely big window, lots of light coming in,
0:51:03 > 0:51:05which is great, but this place is a maze,
0:51:05 > 0:51:09it goes on and on for ever and ever.
0:51:09 > 0:51:12It was a multi-floored, multi-room property
0:51:12 > 0:51:14that was more like a rabbit warren than a home.
0:51:16 > 0:51:19With the property came a car park and a substantial plot of land
0:51:19 > 0:51:23that was crying out for another development.
0:51:23 > 0:51:25Yes, this property was certainly a handful
0:51:25 > 0:51:29and demanded an experienced buyer to take it on.
0:51:29 > 0:51:30Step up, Nina,
0:51:30 > 0:51:34who bought it for £503,000,
0:51:34 > 0:51:37223 grand over the guide price.
0:51:40 > 0:51:44Nina had been buying and selling properties for over ten years
0:51:44 > 0:51:48and currently ran her own service department company.
0:51:48 > 0:51:51Tell us what you've got in mind for something of this size.
0:51:51 > 0:51:56Um, splitting it down into smaller residential-style units
0:51:56 > 0:51:59and renting it to professionals.
0:51:59 > 0:52:03- And how many are you hoping to...? - Somewhere upward of 20,
0:52:03 > 0:52:05- depending on the council.- Wow!
0:52:05 > 0:52:10Yes, Nina had aspirations to make at least 20 studio apartments
0:52:10 > 0:52:13in this former family centre.
0:52:13 > 0:52:16She also wanted to seek planning for two houses on the land
0:52:16 > 0:52:18at the back of the house.
0:52:19 > 0:52:22All of that wouldn't come cheap and Nina earmarked a budget
0:52:22 > 0:52:27of 150-200 grand for the property conversion only.
0:52:27 > 0:52:29She had a timescale of six to nine months
0:52:29 > 0:52:31to get it all ready for the rental market.
0:52:36 > 0:52:40It's nearly two years on and still a work in progress,
0:52:40 > 0:52:43but don't despair, we do have something lovely to show you,
0:52:43 > 0:52:47but first, time for Nina to explain why it's not completed yet.
0:52:49 > 0:52:52Planning took just over a year.
0:52:52 > 0:52:55We wanted 20 studios originally.
0:52:55 > 0:52:58That was blocked, there was quite a lot of neighbour objections,
0:52:58 > 0:53:01so we've gone for nine higher-end apartments,
0:53:01 > 0:53:04a mixture of three-beds, two-beds and one-beds
0:53:04 > 0:53:06and we'll be selling them.
0:53:06 > 0:53:07On each floor of the property,
0:53:07 > 0:53:11there will be a one-bed, two-bed and a three-bed apartment
0:53:11 > 0:53:13and while the first and the second floors
0:53:13 > 0:53:14are a long way from completion,
0:53:14 > 0:53:17the ground floor is very nearly finished.
0:53:19 > 0:53:22See, I did promise something lovely.
0:53:37 > 0:53:39It may be a work in progress,
0:53:39 > 0:53:42but this ground floor is really coming together nicely,
0:53:42 > 0:53:46with three fantastic, spacious and modern flats.
0:53:46 > 0:53:50They've reconfigured almost every aspect of the ground floor,
0:53:50 > 0:53:53making the most of all the space they had to work with,
0:53:53 > 0:53:54as Nina explains.
0:53:56 > 0:53:59The one-bedroom flat that we're in now,
0:53:59 > 0:54:02we're actually stood in the original hallway of the old building,
0:54:02 > 0:54:05so we've changed the layout, opened it up,
0:54:05 > 0:54:07we've made the living spaces open plan,
0:54:07 > 0:54:09which makes it nice and light and airy,
0:54:09 > 0:54:11and added a modern feel to it.
0:54:12 > 0:54:16Thankfully, Nina is very experienced and knows plans change
0:54:16 > 0:54:18and has adapted accordingly.
0:54:19 > 0:54:21But the time that planning took
0:54:21 > 0:54:24and changing from 20 studios to nine flats
0:54:24 > 0:54:27must have had a big effect on her original budget.
0:54:28 > 0:54:31The original budget for the studios was a lot less.
0:54:31 > 0:54:36We wouldn't have done a lot to the building, just a gentle refurb
0:54:36 > 0:54:39and kept them as rental portfolio.
0:54:39 > 0:54:43With the nine flats, we will have spent
0:54:43 > 0:54:47between 500 and 550 by the time we're finished.
0:54:47 > 0:54:49The budget obviously has gone up,
0:54:49 > 0:54:53because of the change in outcome of the project.
0:54:53 > 0:54:55The funding hasn't been a problem,
0:54:55 > 0:54:57because the end value will be higher,
0:54:57 > 0:55:00so the additional spend has not been a problem.
0:55:00 > 0:55:05It's taken longer than the original timescale due to planning.
0:55:05 > 0:55:07We've been on site for seven months now,
0:55:07 > 0:55:09so we'll be out month eight, month nine.
0:55:11 > 0:55:15So an overspend that would make most people's eyes water
0:55:15 > 0:55:17is just another day at the office for Nina.
0:55:18 > 0:55:22She wants to sell the property as a whole once the flats are complete,
0:55:22 > 0:55:25plus she'll include the sizeable plot with the property
0:55:25 > 0:55:28as she decided not to develop it herself.
0:55:30 > 0:55:35So all in all, Nina has invested over £1 million in this project
0:55:35 > 0:55:37and she'll be hoping to make a sizeable profit,
0:55:37 > 0:55:38but will she?
0:55:41 > 0:55:43We've asked along two agents
0:55:43 > 0:55:45to give their opinions on this development so far.
0:55:47 > 0:55:49Really impressed with what I've seen so far.
0:55:49 > 0:55:52Just the quality of the finish that I can see is being done.
0:55:52 > 0:55:55Obviously, the flats aren't completely done yet,
0:55:55 > 0:55:56but you can see what's being done there
0:55:56 > 0:55:58and you can see the quality that's in it.
0:55:58 > 0:56:01Room sizes in general seem fantastic,
0:56:01 > 0:56:02which is unusual for flats,
0:56:02 > 0:56:06especially things that you get of new-build orientation at the moment,
0:56:06 > 0:56:08so that should be very attractive in the marketplace.
0:56:08 > 0:56:10I feel it's done to a really high standard.
0:56:10 > 0:56:11They're very contemporary,
0:56:11 > 0:56:14they've got the new build-type feel of them,
0:56:14 > 0:56:18open-plan living areas, which are very sought-after at the moment
0:56:18 > 0:56:20and the market is really crying out for them.
0:56:20 > 0:56:23In relation to the different types of flats that we've got here,
0:56:23 > 0:56:25I know originally they were looking to do 20 studios
0:56:25 > 0:56:29and I think the fact they've gone to nine bigger apartments,
0:56:29 > 0:56:32I think it is going to lead to more attraction in the market,
0:56:32 > 0:56:34especially in this area at the moment.
0:56:34 > 0:56:36There's a lot more of that kind of property coming up
0:56:36 > 0:56:38and selling very well.
0:56:38 > 0:56:41I think the studios would narrow the market.
0:56:41 > 0:56:42I don't think there's many people
0:56:42 > 0:56:44looking for that kind of accommodation at the moment,
0:56:44 > 0:56:47so, based on the spec and the sizes of these flats,
0:56:47 > 0:56:50I think they should do a lot better.
0:56:50 > 0:56:53Not getting permission for the studios could turn out to be
0:56:53 > 0:56:55a blessing in disguise,
0:56:55 > 0:56:58but we'll only know when we get the valuations.
0:56:58 > 0:57:02Remember, Nina wants to sell this whole property as one.
0:57:02 > 0:57:05I think they should be looking in the ballpark
0:57:05 > 0:57:07of approximately £1.5-£1.7 million.
0:57:07 > 0:57:11In relation to what they'd be selling the block for as a whole,
0:57:11 > 0:57:15just looking at what I feel each individual flat could achieve
0:57:15 > 0:57:18in the marketplace and based on the different array
0:57:18 > 0:57:20of the bedroom size flats that we've got here,
0:57:20 > 0:57:25ultimately, I think the value should be around 1.6-1.7 million.
0:57:25 > 0:57:27I think it's high, but if we can achieve that,
0:57:27 > 0:57:30then we'll be more than happy.
0:57:30 > 0:57:34So if the block was to sell for £1.7 million,
0:57:34 > 0:57:39that would mean a pre-tax profit of just under 650 grand,
0:57:39 > 0:57:43making Nina's latest project a bit of a success.
0:57:45 > 0:57:46Very pleased with how it's gone.
0:57:46 > 0:57:49Very glad that we did it and we would be doing it again.
0:57:49 > 0:57:51We've got a couple in the pipeline.
0:57:53 > 0:57:55Well, that's your lot for today,
0:57:55 > 0:57:57but we'll have plenty more auction lots...
0:57:57 > 0:57:59- See what I did there? - A-ha! I like it.
0:57:59 > 0:58:00..for you next time.
0:58:00 > 0:58:03We've got plenty more to show you from all around the country.
0:58:03 > 0:58:05Yeah, so we'll see you next time here on Homes Under The Hammer.
0:58:05 > 0:58:07- Bye for now.- Goodbye.- Goodbye.