From dazzling beaches to bustling towns and beautiful scenery, there're so many reasons to purchase a property in charming Dorset...
There are many reasons why people choose to live in Dorset. For one, it offers some of the best weather in the UK. For another, there are miles and miles of sandy beaches, as well as picture postcard villages, vibrant towns and excellent restaurants, shops, schools and natural attractions such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
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In fact, almost half of the county is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you won’t be short of a pretty view or two. But there’s one resounding reason why we’d be tempted to buy a house here: Dorset residents have the longest life expectancy in the country! Must be all that fresh, sea air…
This year the average house price is £317,729, but there’s something for every budget. So if you fancy doing your health a favour and investing in a future here, take a look at our pick of the crop…
Three-bed cottage, Portland Dorset, £275,000
For fresh air and sea views, this cottage on the Isle of Portland comes with a very appealing price tag. Recently renovated to a lovely standard, the property still has all the charming original features you'd hope for – an inglenook fireplace, wooden beams and stone walls – but has a brand new kitchen and bathroom, too. Best of all the house sits in the centre of a small village at the very southern edge of the Dorset coastline, with spectacular summer weather being practically guaranteed.
Listed on Zoopla for £275,000 by Direct Moves Weymouth.
Two-bed apartment, Altitude, Poole, £350,000
This super modern flat is within easy reach of Poole Park's picturesque lakes and gardens, as well as the busy harbour and historic quayside.
The bespoke kitchen features contemporary, high-quality units with a sleek high gloss finish and accents of brushed steel, while two luxury Porcelanosa bathrooms add a touch of sophistication.
An open plan living area makes the most of the space on offer and leads off to the two good-sized bedrooms. We reckon this would make a great first step on the property ladder for a young couple.
On the market for £350,000 with Savills.
The Bakery, The Square, Halstock, £450,000
Once upon a time, this pretty little home was the village bakehouse. It closed its doors in 2013 and has since been renovated into a sweet four-bedroom abode. Every piece of original stone from the former bakery has been used and the interior changes are just as sympathetic.
Approached via a graveled driveway, the property has plenty of parking. A storm porch with solid oak doors opens into a good-sized entrance hall, and the Howdens shaker-style kitchen with oak laminate worktops is a real highlight. A stable door leads to the garden, where an Indian sandstone patio proves the perfect spot for alfresco entertaining.
On Rightmove for £450,000.
Nutmeg Cottage, Blandford, £685,000
Packed with character, this enchanting thatched cottage is high on our dream home list. Situated in the thriving Dorset village of Okeford Fitzpaine, the Grade 2 listed property is believed to date back to the 17th century.
The current owners have drastically improved the interior scheme and the home is now beautifully light, airy and tastefully decorated. The main house contains three bedrooms, while a further guest room is found in the self-contained annexe, which comprises an ensuite, kitchenette and living room. Currently, this is used as a holiday let but it would work just as well as visitor accommodation.
The icing on the cake? An indoor swimming pool is located at the end of the garden!
On the market for £685,000 with Humberts.
Magnolia House, Fleet Street, £950,000
We reckon this is one of the finest homes in historic Beaminster! Adorned with ancient evergreen magnolia (which requires only annual pruning), it’s certainly one of the prettiest.
Just a stone’s throw from the local square, there’s plenty going on, yet the handsome home retains total privacy. A well-planned walled garden is a joy all year round thanks to the soft fruit areas, greenhouse, stretching lawns, arched folly and climbing roses.
The four bedrooms and three reception rooms are of a generous size - we particularly love the attractive fireplaces, highly desirable kitchen AGA and useful study space. For any creative types or avid gardeners, the large workshop is sure to come in handy. It’s even got remote controlled access and an electric door!
On the market for £950,000 with Stags.
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