If you’re lucky enough to own a unique or historic home, I think we’re all agreed that it’s an absolute pleasure, but in many cases a significant investment. In the wake of rising costs attached to property ownership, homes with the potential for side income are becoming increasingly sought after.
So what if your property could do more than just provide a home or creative space?
Well, with this in mind, welcome to our handpicked selection of unique homes for sale that can be enjoyed, safe in the knowledge they’re contributing to the ongoing cost of ownership. It also presents a chance as a reminder for homeowners to explore opportunities to generate extra revenue with a unique space they might already own.
1. Tonge Mill, Kent – Multi-Use Spaces for Passive Income
One of the most significant advantages is the potential for passive income. Renting out a portion of your property, such as a finished basement, a converted garage, or a separate guest suite, can generate a consistent income stream.
Grade II listed Tonge Mill in Kent has more than just a garage, it’s got an entire, self contained workshop, with three phase power, to the side of the building that’s large enough to hold a sizable business. But to make this even more tempting, there’s another studio suited to creative means and a two bedroom cottage that’s already a very successful holiday let. All of these have their own private access too, leaving you to go about your business privately.
Tonge Mill | Kent | For Sale | £1,350,000
Click for full details here… (and more photos below)
2. Bridge House, Wiltshire – A Landmark Property with Creative Studios and a Café
Unique features like a separate income suite can enhance the overall value of your property. Potential buyers may be willing to pay a premium for the added income potential.
Bridge House in Trowbridge, Wiltshire is a beautiful, 9,174 Sq Ft landmark within the town. The symmetrical Georgian style façade masks its huge passive income potential. A series of up 20 individual studios within the building have been geared towards the creative scene. In addition, a corner at the front has been converted into a stylish coffee shop serving the community and visiting tourists. And apart from the most exquisite owner accommodation that occupies the entire first floor, above, sits a top floor apartment that also produces additional rental income.
Bridge House | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | For Sale | £1,425,000
Click here for full details… (and more photos below)
3. Mount Pleasant Windmill, Kirton-In-Lindsey – A Historic Windmill with Commercial Potential
You have control over your rental income. You can choose your tenants, set your own rental rates, and manage the property as you see fit.
A unique, historic & original Grade II listed working windmill complete with wood-fired bakery, stone outbuildings and a lovely family home, all situated comfortably within an acre plot of land close to the established market town of Kirton-In-Lindsey. You can chose to run an artisanal business from the windmill and enjoy the home or simply live in the main house and let the windmill commercially.
Mount Pleasant Windmill | Kirton-In-Lindsey | DN21 | For Sale | £975,000
4. Fournier Street, Spitalfields – A Huguenot House with a Hidden Rental Cottage
Create a separate, self-contained living space for guests or long-term tenants. This can be a lucrative option, especially in popular tourist destinations or areas with high demand for short-term rentals.
This incredible Huguenot House is a joy all of its own but with a separate self contained “Tunman’s Cottage” hidden away outside it offers an opportunity for passive income in the form of full term rental or Airbnb. Who wouldn’t want to long or short stay in one of the capital’s most vibrant, lively and historic quarters?
Fournier Street | Spitalfields | London | E1 | For Sale | Off Market | £4,500,000
This exquisite home is available to buy exclusively through Simon. If you have any questions, please contact, simon.stone@
5. Bishops Hall, Borough – A Historic Creative Hub with Investment Potential
The fascinating history of Grade II listed, Bishops Hall dates back to 1886. Under the tutelage of social reformer Octavia Hill it became the birthplace of the National Trust, of which she was a co-founder.
Originally known as, “Red Cross Hall”, it served as a community theatre. The advanced construction methods which still hold the building together to this day have served the current owners well as a huge creative studio since 1982.
With its prime position with the local area, new custodianship could offer, (subject to planning permission) an terrific chance to maximise its potential. You could add some accommodation of your own, then, as for the income producing investment, fill the other areas with creative space. Music studio, production rooms, gallery space, yoga or something for the community are among the ever expanding list of ideas.
Coming Soon | Bishops Hall | Ayers Street | Borough | SE1 | £2,500,000
Making the Most of Your Unique Home’s Potential: Practical Considerations
Implemented correctly, you could be enjoying living in a unique home, enjoying the benefits of passive income without the need to be too hands on but don’t forget to do your research in order to not fall foul of any planning laws and restrictions.
- Local Regulations: Familiarise yourself with local planning laws and regulations regarding home-based businesses and short-term rentals.
- Permits and Licenses: Obtain the necessary permits and licenses for your chosen income-generating activity.
- Insurance: Ensure your home insurance policy covers the potential risks associated with renting out a portion of your property.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Be prepared for ongoing maintenance and repairs to ensure the rental space is in good condition.
- Tenant Screening: Thoroughly screen potential tenants to minimize risks and ensure a positive rental experience.
Hopefully this might have spurred you on to explore how to maximise any potential from your unique home or a place you might be in the process of buying. For more detailed or technical advice, you can always give us a call to chat through your ideas,
And if you’ve decided now is the time to sell or rent your unique home, please get in touch to discuss. We’ve been doing this since 1996 and know a thing or two about looking after places that leave other agents scratching their heads. 020 3987 1739.
Good luck!
