On warm summer days there really is nothing better than being close to water and, this year, you could make your dream of a home on the Thames a reality
A property with a view of the river is the ultimate aspiration and Dexters, working in partnership with riverside specialists Waterview, has the expertise to help you to achieve your goal.
Soren Ravaux, Director of Waterview, says, “We market houseboats, apartments, penthouses, family homes and even islands. We have 27 offices and our coverage of the Thames goes from Greenwich upstream to Reading and beyond.”
Cityscape
Buyers and tenants who may be looking for a primary residence or pied-à-terre overlooking the river can expect to pay a premium. Soren explains, “House values are dependent on the width of the plot and, if you have a full 180-degree panorama of the view, you are going to pay more. It could be a premium of anywhere from 10 to 25 per cent, depending on the quality and aspect of the view. Usually, if you are in an apartment, the higher the floor, the better the outlook.”
As well as wonderful homes further up the Thames, Waterview showcases prime property along the river in central London which has unparalleled views of the city’s skyline, and the added bonus of being close to the capital’s bars, restaurants, clubs and theatres. “From Chelsea Harbour, for example, the vistas are magnificent. You can see the Shard, the Gherkin, the London Eye, the Cheese Grater – all the iconic landmarks,” says Soren.
Picture perfect
When it comes to apartments, Soren finds that buyers and tenants are looking for a great outlook from within the property and, if there is outside space in the form of a balcony, roof terrace or garden, so much the better. Whether it be a penthouse or a detached family home, the most desirable properties include a private mooring. “If people are buying or renting on the river it’s because they love the water, more often than not they’ll have a boat that is their pride and joy, so moorings are incredibly popular.”
For those bringing their property to the market, Soren advises, “Whether it’s a London apartment or a house further upstream, the unique selling point is always the sight of the river so do make it accessible from within the home. Illustrate the living space so everything is facing the water. So, for example, angle the sofas so that prospective purchasers are looking out of the windows at the view rather than sitting with their backs to the river.”
Soren continues, “Equally, if you have an outside terrace, ensure that everything is clean and tidy, position chairs with sumptuous cushions and curate colourful pots to make it look its very best. If you have a mooring with a boat, ensure that it’s all well-maintained and that the boat is sparkling.”
Weather watching
Whether you enjoy watching passing pleasure boats or the sights and sounds of the teeming wildlife, the best thing about river living is the ever-changing outlook. Lucky residents on or near the Thames tend to love their homes and, as a result, the competition for waterside property is always fierce. Soren finds that the attraction of the lifestyle is such that Waterview offices are seeing a continuous flow of demand all year round.
If you are thinking of selling or letting or would like an update on the local market, contact Soren and his trusted team at Waterview on 020 8398 8550 or visit waterview.co.uk.
