A decaying residence with four bedrooms, encircling garden, and scenic ocean vistas goes up for sale - would it be worth your investment?
The property, located near Bournemouth town centre and award-winning beaches, is listed for sale on Purple Bricks for £600,000. This four-bedroom house, in need of a complete refurbishment, is infested with mould and in a state of disrepair.
The front of the property includes a spacious driveway offering ample parking and access to the garage. The property is offered for sale with no onward chain. Inside, the property offers versatile living spaces, including two reception rooms, a kitchen (in need of refitting), and three bathrooms. Additionally, it boasts a separate office and snug.
Mould thrives in warm and damp conditions, making bathrooms the most affected area. During the winter months, mould is more likely to grow due to condensation on windows caused by closed doors and radiators. If left untreated, mould can pose a serious health risk. To remove mould, it's recommended to wear gloves and tie up hair.
Effective methods for removing mould involve controlling moisture, promptly fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and using appropriate cleaning techniques. Vacuum loose mould spores using a HEPA-filter vacuum. For surfaces like wood, use a mix of mild dish soap and warm water, and a soft brush. For deeper mould, apply a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, leave for an hour, then wipe away. Alternatively, use a borax solution (1 teaspoon borax to 1 cup water) applied and left to dry on wood surfaces.
To prevent mould, maintain indoor humidity between 30%-50% by using dehumidifiers and air conditioners. Fix leaks in plumbing, roofs, windows, and walls promptly. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms or open windows to enhance ventilation. When renovating, consider mold-resistant drywall and paints containing antimicrobial agents. Avoid materials prone to moisture retention, such as wall-to-wall bathroom carpets. Use HEPA air purifiers to trap mold spores, though they do not reduce moisture—the key is moisture control. Regularly monitor humidity levels using multiple humidistats around the home for best results.
A dehumidifier can help reduce the risk of mould returning in areas with high humidity. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent recurrence. The golden rule when dealing with mould is to treat it quickly.
The property also offers a large garage and off-road parking. The wrap-around garden adds to its appeal. However, potential buyers should be aware of the extensive work required to bring the property up to standard. With effective mould removal and prevention techniques, this property could be transformed into a desirable home.
To bring the property up to standard, potential buyers should invest in a thorough refurbishment, focusing on mould removal and prevention in the home-and-garden. With appropriate lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels and using mold-resistant materials during renovations, one can transform this real-estate into a desirable lifestyle asset, especially considering its strategic location and attractive features like a large garage and off-road parking.
