If you have half a million pounds to spend on a property, then there’s plenty of choice for a variety of needs. These homes can all be bought for £500,000 or less, and there’s even an overseas option for those looking abroad.
Do any of the following take your fancy?
Shalford, near Braintree, Essex – £500,000
Despite its picturesque appearance, this cottage is not listed, so planning permission will be more easily granted. If you wanted to move the bathroom upstairs, one of the four bedrooms would be lost and it is unlikely that the separate staircases to each pair of bedrooms can be changed.
The cottage looks out over the countryside, which lies beyond the large garden.
High Street, Old Portsmouth, Hampshire – £500,000
This house doesn’t seem to have changed since a strip drawing of the street in 1842. Within, stripped floorboards, painted panelling, fireplaces and a huge central chimneybreast reinforce its Georgian heritage. Buyers will also marvel at the three reception rooms and three double bedrooms.
It may be wise to pay extra for the garage, despite its location a street away – the Georgians had no need for parking.
Balham Park Road, London, SW12 – £499,950
Half a million pounds will only buy you part of the ground floor in this double-fronted house, due to its popular postcode. However, the high corniced ceilings in the living room and bedroom, a private deck and a lawn shared with the neighbours makes it worth it. Expired planning permission also allowed expansion at the back of the property.
Rosemarkie, near Fortrose, Ross-shire – £500,000
Who knew you could get 40 bedrooms for £500,000? This Victorian mansion has since been a hotel and a care home. Gardens lead to the beach, but buyers will need the same amount for costly renovations.
Cordes-sur-Ciel, Midi-Pyrénées, France – £500,000
This former merchant’s house is now a B&B in a medieval bastide sitting on a hilltop. The main house has six bedrooms and there is a separate two-bed gîte. Terraced gardens and the pool have views over the Tarn countryside.