Shared Ownership Valuation in March, Fenland

A shared ownership valuation is specifically designed for properties purchased through shared ownership schemes, where you buy a percentage of your property and pay rent on the remaining share. In March, several housing associations operate shared ownership schemes, including Homemade Homes at Upwell Meadows on Upwell Road, Home Group at Southwell Close, and Accent Group through their partnership with Allison Homes. These developments offer opportunities for first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder in an area where the average property price makes outright purchase challenging for many. The typical equity share ranges from 10% to 75% depending on the development, with deposits usually requiring a minimum of 5% of the share being purchased.

The valuation process involves our RICS-registered surveyor inspecting your property and comparing it against recent sales of similar properties in the March area, considering factors such as the local market conditions, the condition of the property, and any specific issues affecting value. For shared ownership properties, the valuation determines both the full market value and the value of your equity share, which is essential for staircasing calculations or when you decide to sell. Our valuers use comparable data from recent sales in the PE15 postcode area, including properties in areas like Berryfield, Wimblington, and the town centre, to ensure accuracy.

Properties in March face unique considerations due to the Fenland location. The town sits on the banks of the River Nene, and the underlying geology includes clay and silt deposits that can be susceptible to shrink-swell movement, particularly during periods of drought or heavy rainfall. Many properties, particularly newer builds in areas like Berryfield and Wimblington, may have different construction characteristics compared to the older period properties in the town centre. Our valuers account for all these local factors when assessing your property, including any flood risk considerations and the specific construction methods used in different parts of the town.

If you are staircasing to increase your share, selling your shared ownership home, or remortgaging, you will need a RICS-registered valuation that complies with the requirements of your housing association and mortgage lender. Our reports are accepted by all major lenders and housing associations operating in the March area, including Homemade Homes, Home Group, and Accent Group. We ensure our valuations meet the requirements specified by the Greater London Authority and other regulatory bodies for shared ownership valuations.

• RICS-registered valuers
• Accepted by all major lenders
• Fast turnaround available
• Local knowledge of March market

The March property market shows distinct characteristics that our valuers consider when assessing shared ownership properties. Recent data indicates prices are around 3% up on the previous year, though slightly down from the 2022 peak of £247,490. The town has seen new build activity with developments like Upwell Meadows and the Allison Homes site bringing modern shared ownership options to the market. The current average listing price stands at £327,454 according to GetAgent data, showing the market remains active despite some price variations.

Flood risk is a notable consideration in parts of March due to its Fenland location and proximity to the River Nene. The Middle Level Commissioners manage water levels in the catchment area, and our valuers are aware of which areas may be more susceptible to flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or when snowmelt increases river levels. Properties in higher-risk areas may require specific insurance considerations, which can affect value. If your property is in a flood zone, this will be noted in your valuation report along with any relevant insurance implications.

The historical housing stock in March includes period properties dating back to the 14th century, with 52 listed buildings in the town. Properties in conservation areas or those with listed building status may have different valuation considerations, including restrictions on alterations and the premium often associated with historic character. Modern developments like those in Berryfield and along Princess Avenue represent newer construction that may have different value characteristics, with properties in these areas often benefiting from modern building standards and energy efficiency.

For shared ownership properties specifically, the availability of similar properties on the market affects both market value and the ease of selling your share. With developments like Upwell Meadows offering shares between 10% to 75%, and new shared ownership homes becoming available through Allison Homes and Accent Group, the market is active with 45 new shared ownership units expected by early 2026. Our valuation provides you with the accurate figure you need whether you are staying, staircasing, or selling.

• Fenland flood risk considerations
• Period property values
• New build premium
• Transport connectivity impact
• Local school catchment areas

Understanding the construction type of your property is essential for an accurate valuation. In March, we encounter several distinct property types, each with their own value considerations. The historic core of March features period properties constructed using traditional methods, with many listed buildings featuring rubblestone walls, Barnack limestone window dressings, and flint work. These properties often have character features that add value but may also require more maintenance.

Newer properties in developments like Upwell Meadows and Primrose Grove in nearby Wimblington are typically constructed using modern building methods, with brick and block construction, concrete tile roofs, and uPVC windows. These properties often benefit from the NHBC warranty period and modern energy efficiency standards, which can positively influence their value. Properties in Berryfield along Elm Road, with prices reaching up to £475,000, demonstrate the premium that can be achieved for quality new builds in the March area.

The Fenland geology presents specific considerations for property valuations. The underlying clay and silt deposits can be susceptible to shrink-swell movement, particularly for properties with shallower foundations typical of older buildings. Our valuers inspect for signs of movement or structural issues that may be related to ground conditions, particularly in areas with mature trees or where drainage may be a concern. This attention to local structural issues is part of what makes our valuations particularly accurate for March properties.