Want to sell your Hampstead property? Forget neutrals and opt for character

Distinctive décor helped this Hampstead property sell for almost double the average price for the area.

The three-bedroom maisonette on Holly Walk, NW3, sold for £3.3million, which works out as nearly £1,900 per square foot.

According to Zoopla, the average price per square foot for a flat in Hampstead is £1,290.

Sam Gould, director of Chestertons in Hampstead said the buyer was particularly attracted by the characterful period interiors of the 1896 property, whose owner is downsizing after 20 years.

The Grade II interiors include a main reception room with 23 ft high ornate barrel-vaulted ceiling, leaded glass windows with stone mullion surrounds and the original fireplace. Another unusual touch is the wood panelled dining room, which features a second reception area sunk into the floor.

“This property has so much character, there are so many unique features the list is endless,” said Mr Gould.

“At the same time it’s quite a modest property. When you’re inside it’s extravagant but when you’re outside you wouldn’t necessarily realise that was the case.”

While there are several other units in Moreton House this property is the only one with its own private entrance. It also has a private garden.

The apartment’s two off-street parking spaces were another unusual draw for a property in Hampstead.

This combination of distinctive factors help explain the above average selling price in a market where most other Hampstead agents are complaining of virtual stagnation caused by the toxic combination of stamp duty increases and the forthcoming EU referendum.

Mr Gould said: “We had quite a few interested viewers for this flat. There are always properties that stand out from the crowd.

“Buyers can’t just wait and see because it’s not just a standard property, they have to grab the chance when they can.

“It’s just the most fabulous apartment.”