WHILE it may be harder than ever before for first time buyers to get on the property ladder – desperate youngsters will now need to pay attention.
It seems that an increasing number of Brits are now looking into creative alternatives to traditional homeownership – whether it’s living in a van, a shed, or now a granny annexe, also known as a granny flat.
So if you’re thinking about moving away from the financial strain of living paycheque to paycheque under the weight of a heavy mortgage, we’ve found just the thing for you.
Purplebricks has revealed a surge in interest in granny annexes as a viable housing option.
The data highlighted that there was a six-month record rise in enquiries in homes with self-contained annexes with the rise coinciding with councils raising the rates of council tax for second homes by as much as 300%.
Not only this, but the online estate agents also found that from August 2023 to January 2024, there were a recorded 10,000 enquiries in homes with ‘granny flats’.
Purplebricks CEO Sam Mitchell explained: “The rise of interest in annexes is a clear sign Brits are looking much closer to home when it comes to investing in property.”
And now, eBay is catering to those interested in these alternative homes by selling luxury granny annexes – offering a much cheaper option than buying a house.
There’s countless listings to choose from and shoppers are sure to be open-mouthed by this tiny home which is listed at £48,000.
The pictures of this timber framed mobile home uploaded to the advertisement show a fully fitted-out annexe.
The current price includes the building with all of the rooms, which consist of a double bedroom, a shower/toilet room, a kitchen area, and a living space.
It has been described as “brand-new” and “unused” and according to the seller, this bespoke granny annexe is “perfect for those looking for a unique and self-contained living space”.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”I save £1,500 a month living in a skip in central London – I bring friends over & I’ve never had any complaints” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6366514708112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]As a result, it is “ideal for those who want to stay separate from the rest of the house”.
The seller also claimed that “the specification and workmanship is of the highest standard and meets building control regulations.”
The self-contained home measures six by four metres, making it spot on for those after a manageable living space.
If that wasn’t enough, it’s also fully insulated and complete with posh-looking laminate flooring too.
Not only is this cabin designed with “zero maintenance” in mind, but it also comes with an impressive 20 year guarantee.
Unlike an ugly old shed at the back of many of our gardens, this tiny annexe is super stylish and is sure to impress your guests.
This modern, tiny home is ideal for those seeking a luxury annexe, but you’ll need to get yourself clued up on the rules before purchasing one.
Before you buy…
Kingsley Smith Solicitors explained that if a granny annexe is considered an extension of your home and used for purposes deemed ‘incidental’ to the main property, it could fall under permitted development rights.
In such cases, planning permission is often not required.
However, the structure must comply with regulations for outbuildings.
Failure to meet these criteria may result in the need to seek formal planning approval.
To find out more, go to Kingsley Smith Solicitors.
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