A three-bedroom house in Swansea that has fallen into disrepair and is overgrown with vegetation has been put on the market for a staggering £450,000.
This price tag is more than double the average house price of £212,427 in Wales’ second city, based on properties sold over the past year according to Rightmove. The property has been vacant for several years.
The house is in need of some TLC, with missing roof slates and worn-out wooden decking. Nature has begun to reclaim the plot, with greenery sprouting up all around.
However, the property’s location in Mumbles could explain the hefty price tag. According to Rightmove, the average house price in this area was £325,058 over the past 12 months, with detached properties like this one selling for an average of £518,500.
Plus, the house boasts stunning views across Swansea Bay towards the city centre and the hills beyond, reports Wales Online.
Mumbles has long been considered an attractive yet pricey place to live. Swansea councillor Will Thomas believes its appeal has only increased with recent improvements including a new seawall, promenade, 3G sports pitch at Underhill Park, enhanced park facilities, and road crossings.
Cllr Thomas, one of three councillors for the coastal ward, expressed his desire for Mumbles to be an attractive place for all residents, especially young families, in order to keep local schools thriving. “A lot of Airbnb properties are up for sale since new Welsh Government policies and the 200% council tax in Swansea [for second homes],” he stated.
Cairnside, a run-down property on the market for £450,000, is located off Western Lane and has been listed since May. The estate agents promoting it have described Cairnside as a “hidden gem” on a large plot that could either be renovated or demolished and replaced with a new house, subject to necessary permissions.
In addition to nearby shops and restaurants, the Blue Flag swimming beach Langland is within walking distance, and beyond that lies Caswell.
Local bar owner Harry Gillies spoke highly of the former fishing village, saying: “It’s fantastic – everything is on your doorstep,” but he did mention a slight issue with parking. Mr Gillies, who owns Harry’s Bar on Newton Road, added: “It’s very busy at the minute. My bar is doing well.”
First-time buyers may find the house prices in Mumbles daunting. Based on an annual survey of earnings by the Office of National Statistics, average salaries in Swansea were £34,871 in April 2024, making an average Mumbles property more than nine times the average wage.
However, for those lucky enough to secure a home there, the allure remains as strong as ever.
“Mumbles has always been a sought-after location thanks to its coastal charm, vibrant community, and excellent local amenities but in recent years we have seen demand grow even further,” said Ricky Purdy, business partner at Dawsons estate agents, which isn’t marketing the Western Lane house.
“The new promenade has enhanced the seafront experience, creating a stunning space for walking, cycling, and enjoying the views while the area’s restaurants, cafés, and independent shops continue to thrive.”
Mr Purdy said properties needing substantial renovation could offer tremendous opportunities as purchasers were buying not merely buildings but the prime position.
He added: “It’s not just the sales market that sees the allure of Mumbles – our lettings team also see a high demand in those wishing to rent too.”
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