Why the Cotswolds remains a homebuying hotspot
The Cotswolds. It’s one of my favourite places in the world.
I almost feel improper driving through those farming country lanes without classical music belting from the car radio. I can’t help but think that this is one of the last traditionally and quintessentially English places left.
As a chartered surveyor, I know that many homebuyers feel the same. That’s why house prices are so high (and why they’re so good for their value). The region holds a certain appeal; it’s unmatched anywhere else in the world, really.
On this page, I’ll walk you through the significance of the Cotswolds and why it’s such an excellent place to move to.
What happened to Cotswolds house prices?
The Cotswolds benefitted from the same boost as many other areas of the UK – especially rural locations. The ‘great escape’ from the cities was undoubtedly fuelled by the claustrophobic feeling instigated by lockdowns and the new-found ability to work from home.
Suddenly, people who had always dreamed of living in the idyllic countryside found it could be a reality in that moment. So, they packed up and left.
This sudden demand saw areas like the Cotswolds see a sudden price hike. They shot up like a rocket, something great for people who already lived there. Of course, that also made them less affordable for the average buyer.
In the second half of 2022 and through to the start of this year (2023), the property market has been gripped by uncertainty. A combination of factors means we don’t know if values will increase, decrease, or plateau for a while.
At the moment (depending on your source), house prices in the Cotswolds are just about bucking the trend. They’re either rising very slightly or holding steady. Overall, they’re just about outperforming the UK average in growth.
This is a vital statistic. Unlike some other countryside areas, houses here hold value because people aren’t leaving and returning to the cities. Not to the same extent, at least. They want to stay.
Cotswolds house prices also remain, as always, considerably higher than the rest of the country.
This, naturally, is because the Cotswolds is such a homebuying hotspot.
Why is the Cotswolds such a desirable place to live?
If you’ve ever visited the Cotswolds (or even seen it on TV or read about it), you’ll understand what I mean when I call the area a blend of its farming past and modern ways of life.
From my experience, a crucial part of understanding the desirability of the Cotswolds is this: community. Everyone is deeply interconnected. Yes, you find this in many other districts and regions, but not in the same way as here.
For example, take the planning laws. You might be familiar with how difficult it is to get approval for any kind of renovation or extension. Many people would find this irritating. Actually, though, the laws are vital, and mean the area is one of the last in the UK to maintain a distinctive periodic aesthetic.
Its residents either like this or they move somewhere else. It’s as simple as that. As a result, we’re left with everyone who wants to be here. I’ve found that most people share principles, ideals and ambitions because of this.
Finally, I can’t not mention the beautiful natural landscape and farming heritage. The result is simply a stunning spot in which to live, with some of the best pubs and restaurants in the country.
Get a home survey if you’re moving to the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a very well-maintained part of the world. But that doesn’t mean it’s immune from common property problems.
Since house prices in the Cotswolds are much higher than the British average, getting a home survey from a vetted professional is even more crucial.
A home survey in the Cotswolds will look for all the standard issues. However, it’ll also focus on region-specific things we’re familiar with. These include the following:
- Subsidence
- Damp
- Improper ‘repairs’/‘improvements related to Cotswold stone
- And more.
Regarding home surveys, ensure the surveyor is registered with RICS. If they are, they can use the title ‘chartered surveyor’. As a member of this governing body, you’ll have the reassurance that they are qualified, experienced, insured, vetted, and up to date with skills and laws.
If you’re looking for a home survey in the Cotswolds, why not get in touch with my team or me? We’ll be happy to answer any questions and explain our work in more detail.
You can reach us in our GB Home Surveys office through the form below or directly (via email).
Ian Comley, MRICS
