26 Feb 2025
Annexes – why everybody wants one.
Nick Cunningham of Stacks Property Search says, “Annexes have always been in demand; buyers have looked for secondary accommodation that offers infinite flexibility serving as a halfway house for children who haven't quite flown the next, occasional space for relatives or guests when and if required, a permanent home for elderly relatives who can no longer live alone, or for a nanny or au pair. They can provide valuable income if finances become tight.
“A combination of factors, notably high interest rates and increasing costs of living, has resulted in a surge in demand for properties with an annexe; homes with good secondary accommodation are attracting a premium.”
Josephine Ashby of John Bray Estates says, “Properties with annexes are more in demand than ever. They're great for multi-generational living and holidaying; while the flexibility to let out an annexe either occasionally or permanently helps with costs.
“The best arrangements is where there's a clear demarcation between primary and secondary accommodation – separate access and good outside space for the annexe, together with separate parking are incredibly attractive.”
Nick Cunningham agrees. He says, “Annexes work best where the two households can conduct their own lives without being in each other's pockets. Separate parking prevents the irritation of teens or lodgers stealing the last parking spot!
“An annexe that relies on the main house for essential living shouldn't be termed an annexe, it should have its own kitchen, bathroom, curtilage and, ideally, outside space, even if it's just a small terrace or courtyard.”
John Bray Estates is currently selling several properties with an annexe including:
Lower Brocton, near Camel Valley, Cornwall, PL30 3AL
Nestled in a peaceful wooded valley, Lower Brocton is a detached stone cottage with a separate one bedroom cabin, overlooking unspoilt SSSI water meadows leading down to the banks of the River Camel.
The land extends to around 5.5 acres and includes river frontage with riparian fishing rights, stock fenced grazing pastures and several outbuildings.
The main property has five bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen/ breakfast room that flows into a formal dining room with glazed patio doors to frame the sensational views. A generous sitting room with a wood burner also provides picturesque dual aspect views across the valley.
Set just below the main house, the high-quality timber cabin is currently a comfortable self-contained property with open plan living, kitchen and dining room with a cosy log burner and a mezzanine storage level above the double bedroom and shower room. A large, covered deck at the front of the cabin provides a charming spot from which to enjoy the picturesque garden and river views.
https://johnbrayestates.co.uk/properties-for-sale/lower-brocton-house-brocton-north-cornwall-5473/
John Bray Estates is quoting a guide price of £1.15m for the freehold.
Trewornan Manor, Trewornan, PL27 6EX
A versatile estate comprising an impressive Grade II* listed Manor house, and collection of cottages and outbuildings dating back to the 13th Century, all set in 23 acres of managed grounds with woodland walks, next to the River Amble.
The Manor House is laid out over three floors, and includes eight bedrooms, six en suite bath/shower rooms, family bathroom, five reception rooms, and an adjoining two bedroom guest annexe.
There are several outbuildings including The Coach House, a beautifully restored two bedroom annexe, and The Boat Store, a newly converted single storey stone cottage including kitchen / living room, bedroom, bathroom and private patio.
John Bray Estates is quoting a guide price of £3.95m for the freehold.
Hustyn Gate, Cornwall, PL27 7LG
Hustyn Gate and The Stables are nestled in a picturesque, secluded location close to Hustyns Wood. The properties are set within 2.8 acres of beautifully tended grounds and offer a unique opportunity to acquire a substantial 6-bedroom detached home in lovely gardens. The separate two bedroom newly built annexe provides excellent ancillary accommodation.
Hustyn Gate is well located to access the popular market town of Wadebridge and the coast at nearby Rock and Padstow on either side of the Camel estuary.
John Bray Estates is quoting a guide price of £1.35m for the freehold.
Stacks Property Search, 01594 842880 / www.stacks.co.uk
John Bray Estates, 01208 862601 / www.johnbrayestates.co.uk
For press information and high res jpgs, contact: Amanda MacCaw, 07977 238175 / amanda@wildmaccaw.co.uk