Help to Buy Valuation in Kent

A Help to Buy valuation is a specific type of RICS property valuation that is only required for properties purchased under the Help to Buy: Equity Loan scheme. Unlike a standard mortgage valuation or a building survey, this valuation is used specifically to calculate the amount of equity loan repayable to the government when you either sell your property or staircase to increase your ownership share. The valuation must be carried out by a RICS registered valuer who will assess your property's current market value based on comparable sales data and local market conditions.

The process involves our valuer visiting your property to conduct a thorough inspection, measuring the rooms, noting the condition of the building, and assessing any improvements or alterations you may have made since purchase. They will then research recent sales of similar properties in your local area of Kent to determine an accurate market value. This valuation figure is used by the Help to Buy scheme administrator to calculate exactly how much equity loan you need to repay.

In Kent, where property types range from Victorian terraces in towns like Tunbridge Wells and Rochester to modern apartments in new developments such as The Poppies in Aylesford and Mulberry Rise at Applegate Park in Sittingbourne, our valuers have the local knowledge to provide accurate assessments. The average price in Kent has increased by 1% over the last twelve months, with terraced properties averaging around £371,000 and semi-detached properties at approximately £444,000.

Our valuers understand that each property is unique, and we take account of specific factors that can affect value in Kent's diverse areas. Properties near Canterbury Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or in conservation areas like Rochester with its historic cathedral and castle, may have specific considerations that affect their market value. Similarly, properties in flood risk areas require careful assessment, as Kent has over 60,000 properties at risk from coastal, river, or surface water flooding.

• RICS registered valuer inspection
• Market value assessment
• Comparable sales research
• Official valuation report for Help to Buy administrator

Kent's diverse housing stock presents unique considerations for property valuations. The county has a rich variety of property types, from charming cottages and Victorian terraces to modern apartments and large detached family homes. Approximately 66.5% of Kent's dwelling stock consists of houses, with 20.4% flats and 11% bungalows. The largest proportion of properties are three-bedroom homes, representing 41.6% of the housing stock. This diversity means our valuers must consider multiple factors when assessing properties, from location and condition to potential for expansion or improvement.

For Help to Buy valuations, our surveyors take particular note of factors that can affect property value in specific areas of Kent. Properties in conservation areas, such as those near Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or Rochester with its historic cathedral and castle, may have specific restrictions that affect value. Similarly, properties in areas with flood risk require careful consideration, as Kent has over 60,000 properties at risk of flooding from coastal, river, or surface water sources. The coastal areas of Romney Marshes, Dartford, and Gravesend are particularly vulnerable, with over 340,000 properties in Kent at risk from some form of flooding when groundwater and surface water are included.

The age of properties in Kent also varies significantly across the county. Kent has many beautiful period properties including Tudor and Georgian buildings, particularly in towns like Tenterden, Rye, and the villages of the Weald. Older properties may have issues such as lack of modern damp-proof courses, timber decay, or woodworm that can affect their market value. Our valuers assess all these factors when determining your property's accurate market value, ensuring the report reflects any issues that might affect the valuation.

Kent's geology also plays a role in property values. The chalky soil common in the North Downs is generally stable but can contain clay seams or be prone to erosion, especially where historical quarrying or mining has occurred. Tree roots can draw moisture from the soil, causing shrinkage and ground movement that may lead to subsidence. Our valuers are aware of these local geological factors and consider them as part of the overall assessment, particularly for properties in areas with a history of ground movement or those with significant trees nearby.

The local economy also influences property values in Kent. The industrial and distribution sector is the strongest performing sector, with strong demand particularly in Maidstone and Aylesford. The upcoming Panattoni Park Maidstone, a 70-acre logistics development on the A20 between Lenham and Harrietsham, will bring additional employment opportunities that may positively impact property values in the surrounding areas. Our valuers understand these local economic factors and how they might influence the market value of your property.