Charity needing professional property advice and help
Why they came to Stacks
A local charity offering independent communal living needed to find a house or ex-hotel for conversion. As is often the case with charitable organisations, decisions could only be made via a large Board of Governors. However, the Board needed expertise and knowledge of the property market and local area, and thus turned to Stacks for help and advice.
What they were looking for
The brief was specific, for the final property would need to fulfil a set of criteria pertinent to the charity’s particular needs. It was necessary for it to have the capacity to be converted into twelve to fifteen independent bedsits/flats that could enjoy a communal dining room and other facilities. Ideally, it would be within flat walking distance of shops and/or the town centre. And for the wellbeing of the residents, for it to be an attractive area to where people would want to relocate was strongly desired.
What the local area offer could offer
Our first step was to discuss the pros and cons of the various market towns in the area. We focused particularly on aspects such as the topography, what facilities were on offer, what other care facilities were available, and other organisations competing for those facilities. We then looked at the range of properties available that could meet the brief. And at this point, we decided it was worth investigating which large country houses may be fit for purpose, if the setting chosen was more rural.
How Stacks helped
Through our knowledge of the area and our contacts, we found a very promising property; a large Victorian villa nicely placed in a central county town location. Preparing our recommendation carefully, we outlined the details of the property to the Board, clearly setting out its strengths and challenges.
Our recommendation was well received, so our next step was to expand on the proposal by initiating a survey and liaising on planning potential with respect to enlarging the property to meet the charity’s needs.
We then negotiated on behalf of the charity and were delighted to agree terms for the purchase of the property.
The happy outcome
The purchase was completed and planning permission was granted. Before long, work was underway and all involved were thrilled.
How Stacks made a difference
Working with a charity is always rewarding but there are challenges too. The brief inevitably incorporates requirements that are driven by need and not just like-to-haves. However, we were determined to get things right on their behalf.
Our property experience and local knowledge meant we could pick out appropriate locations quickly. Our relationships with estate agents and specialist suppliers helped to move things forward more smoothly. And our understanding of what insurers, planning consultants, and solicitors need were invaluable too; particularly with respect to gaining planning permission. Plus, it was our time that was rightly spent chasing people down, sourcing suppliers, and resolving issues; the Board could get on with other matters on a day-to-day basis.
Overall, our ability to provide professional, independent advice to a large Board of Governors meant that the project was overseen from start to finish cost-effectively and in the right way. When deliberating important aspects, our knowledge and expertise gave them the reassurance they needed to make a decision. And that gives us great pleasure!
