Whitstable house prices soar
08-09-2014
By Whitstable Times By David Archer
HOUSE prices in Whitstable have soared above the national average, rising by more than 20 per cent in the past year.
The data from the Office of National Statistics from April 2013 to March 2014 shows prices in the South East, excluding London have increased by 8.9 per cent, while in Whitstable the figure is above 22 per cent.
The boom may be good news for those who already own property, it could hamper the efforts of people trying to get on the housing ladder without moving away from their hometown.
Brian Hitcham, president of Whitstable Chamber of Commerce and owner of Oxford Street Books, said: "Some people will be really pleased it's increasing but it's difficult if you are not already on the housing ladder.
"It's good Whitstable is as popular as it is but it's a double-sided coin and we don't want to become too exclusive.
"A lot of places seem to be becoming holiday homes. It's a negative thing because they are not always occupied.
"They [the owners] are not spending money in the town all the time. If more houses could be occupied by a family it would be better for Whitstable.
"We are a very popular holiday destination with the harbour fishing and unique shops. In relation to London we are still quite cheap. It could keep growing but the housing situation is precarious."
Neil Harrington, joint managing director of Kent Estate agencies in Whitstable has been selling properties in the town for 30 years.
He said: "Whitstable has become very popular with people from London, Surrey, Bedfordshire and Essex.
"We have seen great road improvements and the introduction of high-speed trains.
"People find it a relaxing town with its quaint and quirky shops. In some places of Whitstable we have seen prices become very expensive. Tankerton used to be the place where families would move to but that area has now become very expensive and so have conservation areas.
"Anywhere with a sea view is expensive. On Woodlawn Street Whitstable you might be able to get a three-bed terrace for £370,000 whereas somewhere around Mariners View for £320,000 you can get a four-bed detached home with a double garage.
"We do get buyers with the money looking for a second home and also others looking to get on the ladder or move somewhere they can afford."
The number of homes changing hands has also significantly increased according to leading Kent law firm Furley Page. Partner Myfanwy McDonagh, who heads the residential property teams, said: "Whitstable has always been popular for property hunters but, in the past few months, we've noticed a marked increase in the number of homes being bought and sold,"
Joy Lane is one of Whitstable's most prestigious, and expensive, places to live. Properties for sale right now include 63 Joy Lane, on the market at £1.15 million and 47 Joy Lane, just slightly more at £1.3 million.
And at 21-23 High Street, Whitstable, a cool £1 million is being asked for a two bedroom penthouse flat.