Project Overview

We searched the market for suitable properties; however, there were very few available that met the search criteria and within budget. It was an extremely difficult search, with such specific parameters, but we were determined to find a suitable property for our longstanding Client.

After eight months, we found a property in Holland Park that was coming to the market: a First Floor flat comprising circa 1,500 sq. ft. in a Holland Park villa with a large south facing terrace requiring a comprehensive refurbishment. It looked perfect for our Client except that there was seemingly no lift to access the property.

Upon looking at the photographs, however, we noticed that the Holland Park villa had been co-joined with next door many years ago and it looked like there was potentially a lift shaft between them serving the two buildings.

We telephoned the Sales Agent to make enquiries and asked if there was a lift. He said there was not to his knowledge, but, when we explained our theory, he said he would call the Seller to double check.

The Sales Agent called straight back and said that the current Owner had refurbished the property some twenty-five years ago and had bricked up the wall to access the lift in favour of more internal space. However, the wall could be demolished and lift access reinstated, subject to the necessary consents.

We undertook an inspection with the Client and subsequently made an offer to purchase. Another Buyer was also extremely motivated to purchase the flat, so we needed to “stay one step ahead”. In the end, it went to sealed bids and we managed to secure the property for our Client.

The proposed works on refurbishment are now underway and due to complete in April 2025.