Help to Buy Valuation in Blackpool

The Help to Buy equity loan scheme has helped thousands of first-time buyers in Blackpool get onto the property ladder since its introduction. However, when the time comes to repay the loan, staircase your ownership, or sell your property, you must obtain a RICS Red Book valuation. This valuation determines the current market value of your property, which is used to calculate the amount you owe on your equity loan. The calculation is based on the higher of either your sale price or the Help to Buy valuation, making an accurate valuation crucial.

Blackpool's property market has shown steady growth, with average house prices increasing by 4.8% in the year to December 2025, slightly above the North West average of 4.5%. This growth reflects the increasing demand for affordable housing in the area, particularly among first-time buyers who were able to enter the market thanks to the Help to Buy scheme. The town's property market is characterised by a high proportion of terraced and semi-detached properties, with these two property types accounting for the majority of sales in the FY1 postcode area. Properties in desirable areas like North Shore and Bispham command premium prices, while the town centre offers more affordable options for first-time buyers.

Your Help to Buy valuation in Blackpool must be conducted by an independent RICS-registered surveyor who has no connection to any estate agent involved in your potential sale. The valuer will inspect both the interior and exterior of your property, taking note of its condition, location, and any features that may affect its value. They will then compare your property with at least three comparable properties that have sold in the local area within the last 12 months to determine its current market value. Our valuers are familiar with the specific characteristics of Blackpool properties, from the Victorian terraced houses of the Talbot and Bloomfield areas to the modern developments along the Preston New Road corridor.

• Terraced properties accounted for 1,253 sales in Blackpool
• Semi-detached properties saw 1,654 sales
• Flats made up 527 sales
• Detached properties accounted for 752 sales

Blackpool's property market offers excellent value for money compared to many other parts of the UK. With an average house price of £136,000 and a house price to earnings ratio of just 4.8 (significantly lower than the England average of 8.0), the town remains accessible for first-time buyers. This affordability, combined with the town's seaside location and amenities, makes Blackpool an attractive option for those looking to get on the property ladder through Help to Buy. The relatively low entry cost means that Help to Buy borrowers in Blackpool often have smaller equity loans compared to those in other parts of the country, which can make repayment more manageable.

The local economy is largely driven by tourism, with the iconic Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach, and the famous Illuminations drawing millions of visitors each year. This tourism industry supports local employment and contributes to the stability of the housing market. Additionally, the town has seen new housing developments in recent years, with developments like The Sandpipers providing new build options in the area. These newer properties may have different valuation considerations compared to the older Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses that dominate many parts of Blackpool, particularly in areas like the Gynn, Layton, and Warbreck districts.

When valuing your Help to Buy property in Blackpool, the surveyor will consider various factors specific to the local area. These include proximity to the beach and Promenade, which can be a significant positive for properties offering sea views or easy access to the coastline. However, they will also consider any flood risks associated with low-lying coastal areas, as Blackpool has identified flood warning areas along the Promenade from Little Bispham to Squires Gate. Properties in areas like North Shore and Central Pier may be affected by these risks, which can impact both valuation and buyer interest. Our valuers are experienced in assessing these local factors and will provide a comprehensive and accurate valuation that reflects your property's true market value.

Blackpool and the surrounding Fylde coast area have seen several new housing developments in recent years, with properties from developers like Elan Homes, Rowland Homes, and Lancet Homes available. Developments such as Redwood Gardens between Blackpool and Lytham St Annes and Royal Gardens in Bispham offer modern homes that were eligible for the Help to Buy scheme. If you purchased a property through Help to Buy from one of these or similar developments, you will need a RICS valuation when it comes time to sell or staircase. The Sandpipers development in Blackpool is another example of newer properties that may have been purchased using Help to Buy equity loans.

New build properties can sometimes present unique valuation considerations. The surveyor will compare your property with other new builds of similar size and specification, as well as considering the value of comparable properties in the local area. Factors such as the quality of construction, included fixtures and fittings, and the remaining leasehold (if applicable) will all be taken into account in the valuation. For Help to Buy properties, the valuation must also meet Homes England requirements, which include specific criteria for new build properties. Our valuers have experience valuing new build properties throughout Blackpool and understand the factors that affect their market value, including the premium or discount that may apply compared to older properties in the same area.