More than eight times the price of an average UK home and six times as large, manor houses continue to command the highest average sale price (£1,868,750) of each of the property types analysed. Often the apex of the village, the centre of all local life, manor houses however are only £67 more than an average UK home per square foot.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, farmhouses prove the most expensive per square foot, despite their fairly spacious proportions. Ranking as the third most expensive village home (£1,206,578), buyers can expect to pay on average £322 per square foot, but will often benefit from extensive grounds and a private location. Although much smaller in size (more than 1,500 sq ft less than farm houses), chocolate box cottages aren’t far behind with an average value of £311 per square foot.
And despite standing at an average £1,342,318 (six times greater than the UK average house price), old rectories are the least expensive quintessentially English village home on a price per square foot basis.
Nick Leeming, Chairman of Jackson-Stops, comments: “From stately manor houses to chocolate box thatched cottages, village homes have always played a key role in the UK property landscape. Thanks to their striking and historic features, it is not hard to see how these quintessential English property types have stood the test of time, but much of the appeal can be put down to village life itself.
From sharing gossip over a pint at the local pub, playing cricket on the village pitch or enjoying the attractions of the summer fete on the green, villages often radiate a rich community spirit which has long been forgotten in many towns and cities. Residents will often buy into the village lifestyle and therefore want amenities such as local shops, village halls, parkland and doctor’s surgeries on their doorstep.
It is not surprising to see that manor houses and old rectories command the highest price premium of all English village homes analysed. The vicar was often considered the most important individual in the village, only second to the lord or lady of the manor. Both property types offer ample proportions, however when it comes to offering best value for money the old rectory beats the manor house hands down.”
