Finding derelict property for sale is both hard and time-consuming. Sometimes it can help to have a list of potential locations to help you at least get started in your search.
This article uses the local economy to find derelict property for sale.
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How to find derelict properties in the UK
Derelict properties can be found in various locations throughout the UK. Some areas with a higher concentration of derelict properties may include post-industrial cities and towns that have experienced economic decline, as well as rural areas where the population has decreased or specific industries have shut down.
Discover how local economy impacts property prices.
Why would economic decline cause homes to be abandoned?
There are several reasons why economic decline might lead to homes being abandoned. For example, if the local economy collapses and people can’t find work, they may be unable to afford to maintain their homes and may be forced to move out.
Similarly, if the value of homes in the area drops significantly due to economic decline, homeowners may be unable to sell their homes and may choose to abandon them.
Over the last few decades, various locations in the UK have experienced economic decline. With this in mind, we decided to collate a list of locations that might prove to be a good starting point in your search for derelict property.
UK towns suffering from economic decline
Taking into consideration the collapse of the UK economy and the decline of many industries over the last few decades, we’ve collated a list of locations to help you get started with finding your next derelict property renovation project.
Taking opportunities when they present themselves is essential if you’re looking to profit from the renovation of derelict properties.
The North of England
Many cities and towns in the North of England, such as Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastle, have experienced a significant economic decline in recent decades due to the decline of traditional industries, including mining and the manufacturing of textiles, glass, heavy machinery, and chemicals.
- Blackburn
- Bradford
- Leeds
- Liverpool
- Manchester
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- Sheffield
- Stockport
- Wakefield
- York
The Welsh Valleys
The Welsh Valleys were once home to thriving coal mining and steel industries. These industries have declined significantly in recent years, leading to economic decline in the region.
- Aberdare
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Pontypridd
- Rhondda
- Treorchy
The Scottish Central Belt
The Scottish Central Belt, which includes Glasgow and Edinburgh, has also experienced an economic decline in recent decades due to the decline of traditional industries such as shipbuilding and heavy engineering.
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Dundee
- Paisley
- East Kilbride
- Livingston
- Hamilton
- Cumbernauld
- Ayr
- Dunfermline
Coastal towns
Many coastal towns in the UK, particularly in the north and east, have experienced an economic downturn due to declining industries such as fishing and tourism.
You could do worse than start your search in one of the following UK coastal towns that have experienced economic decline over the last few decades.
- Grimsby
- Great Yarmouth
- Hastings
- Margate
- Newhaven
- Rhyl
- Skegness
Former mill towns
Many former mill towns in the UK, such as those in the Pennines and the Scottish Borders, have experienced an economic downturn due to the decline of the textile industry.
Towns found in the Pennines:
- Blackburn
- Bradford
- Burnley
- Halifax
- Huddersfield
- Leeds
- Manchester
- Oldham
- Rochdale
Towns found in the Scottish Borders:
- Berwick-upon-Tweed
- Galashiels
- Hawick
- Jedburgh
- Kelso
- Melrose
- Peebles
- Selkirk
Are there more derelict properties in rural locations?
It is not necessarily the case that there are more derelict properties in rural locations compared to urban areas. However, derelict properties may be more noticeable in rural areas because they tend to stand out more in the landscape and may not be surrounded by other buildings. In addition, derelict properties in rural areas may be more difficult to repair or reuse due to their isolated location and the lack of local amenities and services.
Summary
Derelict properties can be found in various locations throughout the UK, particularly in areas that have experienced economic decline. These properties may be abandoned due to economic factors such as a collapsing local economy, unemployment, or declining property values.
Some specific areas in the UK where derelict properties may be found include post-industrial cities and towns, as well as rural areas where the population has decreased, or certain industries have shut down.
Because finding derelict property for sale is hard enough, sometimes it pays to think slightly outside of the box for ways to discover your next investment opportunity. Hopefully, this article has given you some ideas!