Feeling the pull of the sea? Look no further than the southern port city of Southampton and get ready to call yourself a Sotonian.
Fair winds, good fortune and excellent food are on offer in Southampton! Packed with maritime history (did you know the Titanic set sail from here in 1912?), the city has been shaped by its vibrant past. Home to two universities, it's a hub of learning, as well as a retail paradise thanks to the enormous shopping complex of West Quay.
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As the closest city to the New Forest, with several good-sized beaches on its doorstep, homeowners here are well placed for family fun and weekend breaks. Plus Ocean's Village, a luxury multi-million-pound retail development by the water, is creating more than a little bit of buzz right now.
On the mouth of the River Itchen, Southhampton has become something of a social hub, with a plethora of sophisticated wine bars and eateries, along with two cinemas. It’s also home to some highly desirable waterfront properties.
With so much to offer residents, and with an average house price of £207,707 (a healthy 4.4% up on last year), we’d highly recommend a purchase in Southampton. Here are our favourite five on the market right now…
One-bed apartments at Henman House, The Pavilions, £195,000
This contemporary one-bed apartment is on the first floor of Henman House within the flash new development of the Pavillions. Each flat in the building boasts high feature ceilings and windows, with many overlooking the formal gardens and surrounding grounds.
Inside, the open plan living area is bright and spacious, with a double bedroom and separate bathroom leading off from the main room. All in all, this small but beautifully done-up residence is a fantastic chance to get your first foot on the ladder.
On the market from £195,000 with Barratt Homes
4-bedroom on Wykeham Road, Netley Abbey, £395,000
If you're looking for a generous family home with a sea breeze, look no further than this smart four-bedroom property in the suburban district Netley Abbey. Close to village amenities and the sea, the property is less than a half mile from the local train station, which offers great links to the city centre.
Space in the home is ample: all the bedrooms are doubles, with three bathrooms and a lovely paved patio to the rear which looks out onto a pleasant garden. Whether you're looking to start a family or accommodate a growing brood, this is the ideal place to begin your next chapter.
On the market with Hunters
3-bedroom on Birch Close, Colden Common, £395,000
This attractive three-bed house is located within a popular residential area close to Winchester. A tarmac drive provides handy off-street parking and there’s plentiful outdoor space thanks to a front and rear garden, packed with mature shrubs, hedging and herbaceous borders.
Inside, the home could do with a little updating, but nothing too urgent. This is a great opportunity for a small family looking for a nest that they can put their stamp on!
On the market with Savills
3-bedroom apartment, Moresby Tower, Admirals Quay, £500,000
Overlooking Ocean Village, this oh-so-trendy pad will make you the envy of all your friends. Surrounded by cool bars and restaurants, you’ll be at the heart of the action while enjoying fabulous views across the water.
Modern minimalism works perfectly in this style of home and the open plan kitchen/living area creates a sociable entertaining space. For the best views, look no further than the balcony.
Three spacious bedrooms are on offer, with the master served by its own en-suite. The best bit? You’ll enjoy a 24-hour concierge, access to the resident gym and a parking space. Pretty fabulous we’d say...
On the market with Savills
5-bedroom house, West End Road, West End, £750,000
You’ve got space on your side with this airy five-bed detached home. Situated just a few minutes out of town, this well-appointed family abode includes a generous rear garden featuring a smart patio area, perfect for alfresco entertaining, along with a cute picnic area and garden shed.
The reception room is something of a talking point, with fitted chandeliers and a stylish feature fireplace. Two of the bedrooms benefit from en-suites and an upstairs study has the potential to provide an extra bedroom if needed.
Personally, we’re drooling over the gorgeous family bathroom, which boasts a chic corner bathtub, an enormous walk-in shower and a characterful statement window.
On the market with Express Estate Agency
Featured image credit (top): Sterling Images / Shutterstock
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