Help to Buy Valuation in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

The Help to Buy equity loan scheme allowed purchasers to borrow up to 20% of the property value (40% in London) as an interest-free equity loan for the first five years. In Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, this scheme proved particularly popular given the area's strong appeal to families and retirees seeking coastal living without the London price tag. However, when you reach the end of your five-year period, or if you wish to remortgage or sell before then, you must obtain a formal RICS valuation to determine the outstanding loan amount. The valuation calculates your equity loan balance based on the current market value of your property.

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole housing market presents unique characteristics that affect valuations. The area boasts a high proportion of detached properties (38.1% of housing stock), reflecting the suburban nature of areas like Westbourne, Canford Cliffs and Broadstone. Meanwhile, flats and maisonettes comprise 26.3% of the market, particularly concentrated in seafront areas around Bournemouth Pier and Poole Harbour. Understanding these local market segments is essential for an accurate Help to Buy valuation, as each segment has its own supply and demand dynamics.

Our valuers have extensive experience across all property types in the BCP region. Whether your property is a modern detached home in Canford Vale, a period terraced house in Christchurch old town, or a contemporary apartment at SALT on Browning Avenue, we have the local knowledge to provide an accurate market valuation that reflects current conditions. We regularly value properties across all major developments in the area, from new build sites to established residential neighbourhoods.

• RICS qualified valuers
• Same-day booking available
• Digital report delivery
• All property types covered

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area presents specific considerations that our valuers take into account when assessing your property. The coastline from Hengistbury Head to Hurst Spit is subject to significant coastal flood and erosion risks, with over 3,500 properties identified as being at risk. While recent upgrades to Hengistbury Head Long Groyne completed between April and October 2024 provide protection for up to 6,000 homes, properties in certain coastal locations may be affected by these risk factors. Our valuers understand these local environmental considerations and reflect them appropriately in valuations.

The local geology also plays a role in property values. The area's sea cliffs and chines are subject to groundwater-driven cliff instability, which can affect properties in elevated coastal positions. Areas around Durley Chine, Alum Chine, and other coastal slopes may be impacted by these geological conditions. Our valuers are familiar with these local geological conditions and understand how they may impact property values in specific locations throughout the BCP area.

On the positive side, the local economy remains strong with major employers including JP Morgan (employing over 4,000 people), Bournemouth University, and the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The area's reputation as "Silicon Beach" due to its concentration of digital and creative industries continues to attract professionals, supporting demand in the local property market. The presence of the RNLI headquarters in Poole and major marine employers like Sunseeker International also contributes to economic stability.

The BCP area benefits from excellent transport links, with direct train services to London Waterloo taking approximately two hours from Bournemouth station. This connectivity, combined with the area's natural beauty and quality of life, continues to make it attractive to commuters and remote workers. These economic and accessibility factors positively influence property values across the region.

To ensure a smooth valuation process, there are several steps you can take to prepare. First, gather documentation including your Help to Buy reference number, property EPC, and any certificates for recent renovations or extensions. If you have made significant alterations to the property since purchasing through Help to Buy, such as loft conversions, extensions, or kitchen bathroom upgrades, provide details of these as they may affect the valuation. The valuer will need to see any building regulation completion certificates or planning permissions for structural changes.

Ensure the valuer has clear access to all areas of the property, including the loft space if accessible, and any outbuildings or garages. Our valuers will need to measure the property and assess its overall condition comprehensively. If there are any known issues with the property, such as damp, structural concerns, or boundary disputes, it is advisable to be present during the inspection to discuss these matters. The valuer will take photographs as part of the inspection process, which form part of your official valuation report.

Once the inspection is complete, you will receive your report digitally, typically within 3-5 working days. The report includes the market value assessment, details of comparable sales used in the valuation, photographs of the property, and the calculation of your equity loan balance. If you have any questions about the report or the valuation process, our team is available to discuss the findings and explain any aspects of the assessment.