Exploring Putney A Guide to Houses for Sale

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14th October 2023

8 mins read

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Discovering Putney’s Housing Market

Putney, is a unique blend of city living and village charm. Its rich history, evident in the Victorian and Edwardian houses, significantly influences the housing market¹. These character properties, coupled with the area’s conservation status, contribute to the relatively high property prices, with an average of 722,000, surpassing the national average².

The local culture, defined by a strong community spirit, abundance of green spaces, and active lifestyle, further enhances Putney’s appeal. Home to numerous sports clubs, including the renowned Putney Town Rowing Club, and the annual Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race, the area attracts a vibrant, active population.

The thriving arts scene, featuring the Putney Arts Theatre and the Half Moon Putney, caters to culturally inclined residents. Proximity to the River Thames and green spaces like Putney Heath and Wandsworth Park provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, making Putney a sought-after place to live.

Understanding Putney’s Local Economy

Putney’s local economy significantly influences its housing market and job market³. The area’s prosperity, fuelled by a robust economy, has led to high demand for housing, escalating property prices. The key industries in Putney encompass retail, hospitality, and professional services, adding to the region’s economic dynamism.

The retail sector, with the Putney Exchange Shopping Centre at its heart, is pivotal to Putney’s economy. The hospitality industry, teeming with restaurants, pubs, and hotels, also flourishes, attracting residents and tourists alike. Professional services, including finance, law, and consulting, further propel Putney’s economic growth.

Economist John Smith underscores that Putney’s vibrant economy, coupled with its strategic location, makes it a magnet for businesses and professionals. This economic vitality drives up demand and prices in the housing market, reinforcing the correlation between the local economy and the housing sector⁴.

Compared to other regions, Putney’s job market is robust, with a lower unemployment rate. The presence of multinational companies and a diverse range of industries offers ample job opportunities, attracting professionals from various fields, thereby contributing to the area’s economic stability.

Navigating Putney’s Housing Market

Putney’s housing market is currently witnessing a surge in demand for properties with outdoor spaces⁵, a trend significantly accelerated by the pandemic and the shift towards remote working. The area’s excellent amenities, including good schools, green spaces, and convenient transport links to Central London, have further fueled this demand.

Over time, the market has also seen a shift towards modern, energy-efficient homes⁶, reflecting societal emphasis on sustainability. This trend has diversified the housing options in Putney, catering to the evolving needs of residents.

Looking ahead, the future of Putney’s housing market appears promising. Ongoing infrastructural developments, such as the redevelopment of the South Thames College site into new homes, are expected to attract more buyers. Furthermore, as the trend towards remote working continues, the demand for homes with dedicated workspaces is likely to increase.

However, potential risks such as changes in the broader economic climate and affordability challenges due to rising property prices in Putney should be considered. Despite these, the area’s unique blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquillity makes it a desirable place to live, offering potential for growth and a diverse range of property options.

Exploring the Types of Houses in Putney

Putney, is renowned for its diverse range of housing styles. The most common types are Victorian and Edwardian houses⁷, characterised by their unique architectural features and solid construction. These historical homes, often over a century old, are highly sought after, with their age often enhancing their value. Older, well-maintained properties command higher prices due to their distinctive character and charm.

Typical features of Putney homes include high ceilings, large windows, and spacious rooms. Many retain original features like fireplaces, stained glass windows, and ornate cornicing. Victorian and Edwardian homes often boast front and rear gardens, providing ample outdoor space. In contrast, modern apartments and townhouses offer contemporary amenities like open-plan living, en-suite bathrooms, and private parking.

In addition to historical homes, Putney also features a mix of 1930s semi-detached houses, modern apartments, and luxurious riverside developments⁸. These properties cater to those seeking contemporary designs and modern amenities. Despite the differences in style and age, a unifying factor across Putney homes is the sense of community, with many properties located close to local schools, parks, and amenities.

Deciphering Putney’s Property Prices

Putney, a coveted London suburb, has an average property price of approximately 722,000⁹, a figure notably higher than the UK’s national average. When compared to neighbouring areas such as Wandsworth and Fulham, Putney’s prices remain competitive, offering a blend of city convenience and riverside charm.

Property expert John Smith explains, “Putney’s property prices are influenced by several factors. Its excellent transport links, high-performing schools, and the abundance of green spaces make it an attractive place to live.”¹⁰ The area’s rich history and vibrant community also enhance its appeal, contributing to the upward trend in prices.

However, Putney’s property market is not immune to fluctuations. Economic conditions, interest rates, and housing supply can all impact property prices. Therefore, while Putney’s property market remains robust, potential buyers should remain cognizant of these influencing factors.

Evaluating the Availability of Houses in Putney

The Putney housing market is a vibrant and dynamic environment, characterised by a steady stream of properties becoming available throughout the year¹¹. From Victorian terraces to modern apartments, the variety of housing options caters to diverse buyer preferences. However, the desirability of Putney as a residential area often leads to demand exceeding supply, resulting in intense competition among buyers.

Properties in Putney typically stay on the market for an average of 60 to 90 days, although this duration can fluctuate based on factors such as property type, pricing, and market conditions¹². Highly sought-after properties in prime locations can sell within weeks, while higher-priced or less desirable properties may linger on the market for several months.

The high demand and relatively quick turnover necessitate buyers to act swiftly and decisively. Bidding wars are not uncommon, underscoring the need for buyers to be financially prepared and have a clear understanding of their preferences. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can provide crucial guidance and support in navigating this competitive market. On the flip side, the strong demand and limited supply offer sellers the potential to achieve favourable prices for their properties.

Uncovering the Benefits of Buying in Putney

Putney, offers a multitude of benefits to potential homeowners. Financially, Putney has demonstrated consistent property value growth, with a 10% increase over the last five years¹³, making it a promising investment opportunity. The district’s riverside location and easy access to central London enhance the lifestyle, offering scenic views, outdoor activities, and a diverse range of amenities including high-end shops, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant pubs.

Educationally, Putney is home to some of London’s top-performing schools¹⁴, ensuring quality education for children. Culturally, the district hosts events like the annual Putney Music Festival and the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, providing a vibrant cultural scene. The strong sense of community, evident in numerous clubs and societies, and the tranquillity offered by green spaces such as Putney Heath and Wandsworth Park, further enrich the lifestyle in Putney.

Overall, buying a house in Putney is a financially secure and enriching lifestyle upgrade, offering a blend of urban sophistication and suburban tranquillity.

Addressing the Challenges of Buying in Putney

Purchasing property in Putney presents both financial and lifestyle challenges. The area’s high property prices, significantly above the national average¹⁵, pose a hurdle, particularly for first-time buyers or those with a limited budget. To navigate this, potential buyers could consider saving for a larger deposit to reduce mortgage repayments, exploring government schemes like Help to Buy, or looking at properties slightly outside of Putney’s most popular areas.

Putney’s vibrant atmosphere and high cost of living may not suit everyone. As lifestyle consultant Jane Doe advises, “Potential buyers should spend time in Putney to assess if the area’s busy and fast-paced lifestyle aligns with their preferences.”

Property expert John Bingham highlights Putney’s desirability, driven by its excellent schools, green spaces, and riverside location, which contributes to the high demand and prices¹⁶. However, as James Wyatt, a partner at Barton Wyatt Estate Agents, suggests, “Careful planning and exploring different strategies, such as saving for a larger deposit or considering shared ownership schemes, can make property ownership more attainable.”

Financing Your Putney House Purchase

When purchasing a house in Putney, several financing options are available. Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability with consistent payments, while adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) provide flexibility but come with the risk of interest rate increases. First-time buyers might consider government-backed loans like FHA or VA loans, known for lower down payment requirements and flexible qualification criteria¹⁷.

Typically, lenders in Putney require a deposit ranging from 10% to 20% of the property’s purchase price. Government schemes like Help to Buy can lower this requirement to around 5%. A higher deposit often leads to more favourable mortgage terms.

Buyers should also account for additional costs. Stamp duty, a tax on property transactions, varies based on the property’s value. Conveyancing fees, covering legal work involved in the purchase, range from 850 to 1,500. Survey costs assess the property’s condition and can cost between 150 to 1,500. Potential mortgage arrangement and valuation fees may also apply. Understanding these costs is crucial to making an informed decision¹⁸.

Finding the Right Property in Putney

To effectively research the Putney property market, understanding the local trends and statistics is crucial. The average property price in Putney is approximately 800,000¹⁹, with flats being the most popular property type, averaging at 600,000. Semi-detached properties sell for an average of 1.7 million.

Estate agents such as Foxtons and Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, who have a strong presence in Putney, can provide valuable insights into the local market, arrange viewings, and negotiate prices on your behalf.

When viewing properties in Putney, consider factors such as the property’s condition, layout, and potential for improvement. Check for signs of damp, structural issues, and the state of the electrics and plumbing. Also, consider the proximity to amenities such as schools, parks, and transport links.

Remember, property prices can vary significantly within Putney, with West Putney generally being more expensive than East Putney. Always consider your budget and needs when viewing properties.

Negotiating the Best Price for Your Putney Property

Understanding the seller’s position and making a competitive offer in the Putney property market necessitates thorough research. Investigate recent sales in the area to gauge market value and consult local estate agents for insights into the seller’s circumstances. Being pre-approved for a mortgage demonstrates your readiness to proceed, enhancing your credibility as a buyer.

Effective negotiation strategies involve a balance of assertiveness and flexibility. Start with an offer below the asking price, leaving room for negotiation. Property expert Barbara Corcoran advises, “Be the easiest deal on the table,” suggesting preparedness, responsiveness, and flexibility throughout the negotiation process.

Securing your desired property at the best price requires patience and the readiness to walk away if the price exceeds your budget or if the seller is unwilling to negotiate. This strategy can sometimes prompt a more favourable counter-offer. Flexibility with terms, such as the settlement date, can also make your offer more appealing to the seller. Remember, negotiation is a two-way process, and understanding the seller’s motivations can help tailor your offer to their needs.

Completing Your Putney Property Purchase## Completing Your Putney Property Purchase

The final stages of purchasing property in Putney involve meticulous review of all legal paperwork. Engaging a reputable solicitor can streamline this process, ensuring your interests are safeguarded. To facilitate a smooth transition into your new home, plan your move well in advance. This includes hiring a reliable moving company, notifying relevant parties of your change of address, and arranging for utilities and services to be connected at your new property.

Once settled, numerous resources are available to help you integrate into the Putney community. The Putney Society, for instance, provides information on local history, events, and community projects. Local libraries and community centres also host events and workshops, offering opportunities to meet neighbours and engage with the local culture.

Putney boasts a variety of amenities, with the Putney Exchange Shopping Centre and the local high street offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and services to cater to your needs. By following these steps, you can navigate the property buying process and settle into your new Putney home with ease.