Confidential valuation of luxury and historic property

Why exceptional properties are difficult to value

Standard homes can be valued against recent sales nearby. For historic or luxury properties there are few true comparables: each house differs in age, size, land, protection and condition. Asking prices on portals are an unreliable guide, as many unique properties remain unsold for years at unrealistic figures. A sound valuation therefore combines market evidence with a careful reading of the property itself.

The factors we consider

• Location and setting: views, privacy, access, distance to the coast, towns and airports.
• Land: area, number of plots, gardens, woodland and agricultural use.
• Buildings: size, architectural quality, ancillary buildings such as chapels or granaries.
• Condition: roofs, structure, services and the likely cost of restoration.
• Heritage and planning: protection level, BIC status and what uses are allowed.
• Potential: suitability as a family home, hotel, winery or events venue.
• Demand: who is buying this type of property now, and from where.

How the process works

You tell us about the property and send whatever documents and photographs you have to hand. We then arrange a visit, review the deeds, cadastral and planning information, and discuss with you any history that adds value. Finally, we give you a reasoned price range and a view on how best to bring the property to market. The valuation is free of charge and places you under no obligation to sell through us.

Our valuation is a commercial opinion of market value. Where you need an official appraisal, for example for a mortgage or certain legal purposes, a licensed valuation company must carry it out.

Confidentiality first

Many owners want to know what their property is worth long before they decide to sell, or without other family members, neighbours or staff becoming aware. We treat every request in strict confidence. Nothing is published, and no information is shared with buyers without your consent.

What you can do to prepare

A valuation is more accurate when we have good information. If possible, gather the title deed, a Land Registry extract, the cadastral reference of each plot, recent IBI receipts and any licences or plans from past works. Note the history of the house, its architects or notable owners, and any features that may not be obvious at first sight, such as springs, old trees or archives. Do not worry if some documents are missing: we can help you obtain them, and it is better to identify gaps early than during a sale.

Next steps

If, after the valuation, you decide to sell, we will explain how we would present the property. Read more about selling a historic property or, if you own a pazo, our page on selling a manor house.