Have you ever dreamed of transforming an old barn into your dream home? There’s something incredibly appealing about breathing new life into these characterful buildings, but finding the right barn to convert can prove challenging. Whether you’re looking for a magnificent timber framed barn or a sturdy stone building, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding your perfect barn conversion project.
Define your requirements
Before you begin your search, take time to think about what you want out of your barn conversion. Do you envision a rural retreat in the middle of nowhere, or would you prefer a barn near a town? How important is it for you to have good transport links? Consider how much space you need – how many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want in your finished conversion? What kind of living spaces do you want? Do you require a home office?
It’s also crucial to establish your budget early on and research financing options if they are necessary. Your budget should be realistic and include contingencies and emergency funds.
Next, think about what kind of building appeals to you. Are you drawn to traditional timber-frame barns, stone barns, or some other type of agricultural building?
Find a barn to convert
When searching for the right barn, it’s worth exploring multiple avenues simultaneously. Each search method has its own advantages, and combining different approaches can significantly increase your chances of finding that perfect property. Some methods are more conventional than others! Let’s explore the various ways you can track down your ideal barn, from digital platforms to good old-fashioned legwork.
Local estate agents
If you already know where you’d like to live, local estate agents could be the best first point of contact for you. When property owners consider selling, estate agents are typically the first people they call. These professionals often have firsthand experience with the properties, complete with photos and insights about pricing flexibility. Their local knowledge can be invaluable in your search. A local estate agent will often have had conversations with the property owner to find out how much they are asking, and might know whether there is any wiggle room within that price.
Websites
Maybe you’re not sure where you’d like to live, or perhaps the property itself is more important than the location for you. If this is the case, there are online websites you can use to look at options across the whole country. Some examples are OnTheMarket and barnsetc.
Go out and search
In our digital age, it might seem old-fashioned to physically explore areas in search of a barn to convert. But don’t underestimate this approach! You might find hidden gems that haven’t made it online yet. Or perhaps you’ve spotted a potential barn conversion project during your daily dog walk? Many agricultural buildings sit unused, and owners could be open to selling if approached. Don’t be afraid to make inquiries about properties that catch your eye.
Alternative search methods
Don’t overlook auction houses and social media in your search. Many old barns appear in property auctions, with companies like Savills regularly featuring such properties. Social media can also be a valuable resource. Join Facebook groups focused on barn conversions and rural properties, and keep an eye on platforms like Gumtree for unexpected opportunities.
Found a potential barn to convert? Here’s what to do next
Once you’ve found a barn that interests you, there are crucial steps to take before making an offer. First, investigate planning and zoning laws. Some barns can be converted under class Q permitted development rights without full planning permission, but you’ll need to confirm this with your local council.
Most importantly, NEVER buy a barn without proper surveys. You’ll need at least one, perhaps both of the following.
Structural survey
Hire a structural engineer or chartered building surveyor to assess the building’s soundness. They’ll examine the roof, walls, floors, foundations, and check for issues like subsidence. This survey is crucial for understanding what work will be needed to make the building habitable.
Timber survey
For timber-framed barns, which are common, a specialised survey is essential. With timber-framed buildings that have fallen into disuse, there is a risk of wet or dry rot or infestations of insects. A survey is essential to determine whether you have any of these issues and to identify how you can fix them.
When booking these surveys, ensure you:
- Choose a surveyor who is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which guarantees adherence to professional standards
- Check their reviews to ensure they’re experienced and capable.
- Get multiple quotes so you can go with the most competitive price – but don’t skimp on the service. A thorough survey can prevent unexpected repair costs in the future
Some final tips for finding a barn to convert
- Be patient – finding the right barn can take time.
- Always visit in person before making an offer.
- Hire experienced barn conversion contractors – the process differs significantly from standard construction projects.
Ready to start your barn conversion journey?
Finding the right barn to convert is just the first step in your journey. With over two decades of specialised experience in barn conversions, our team understands every nuance of these unique projects. We’ve helped many homeowners transform historic barns into stunning modern homes, managing everything from concept to completion.
Why navigate this complex process alone? Our experts can guide you through every stage – from planning permissions to architectural design and construction. We know the common pitfalls to avoid and the opportunities to seize, ensuring your barn conversion project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Take the first step toward your dream barn conversion today. Contact our team and discover how our 20+ years of dedicated barn conversion expertise can help bring your vision to life.