Selling a BISF house can be challenging due to mortgage restrictions, insurance difficulties, and common misconceptions. But with the right approach, you can still achieve a successful sale.
At My Homebuyers, we offer a fast, hassle-free alternative, allowing you to sell your BISF property quickly without the uncertainty of the open market.
Table of Contents
Sell Your Property Quickly & Easily
If you’re struggling to sell your BISF house, click on our “Get a Cash Offer” tab. We provide a no-obligation cash offer, and if accepted, we can complete the sale in as little as two weeks—without the usual delays, fall-throughs, or repair costs.
Benefits of Selling to My Homebuyers
✅ No mortgage issues – We buy in cash, eliminating lender concerns.
✅ No repairs needed – Sell your BISF home as-is, without renovation costs.
✅ Guaranteed sale – No risk of buyers pulling out or being denied financing.
✅ Fast completion – Move forward within weeks, not months.
What is a BISF House?
A BISF (British Iron and Steel Federation) house is a steel-framed, non-standard construction home built between 1946 and the late 1950s to address the post-war housing crisis. Around 35,000 BISF houses exist across the UK, mostly semi-detached with metal cladding on the first floor and rendered ground floors.
Common Myths About BISF Houses
🚫 BISF houses are not prefabs – They were designed as permanent homes.
🚫 BISF homes are not defective – They were not listed under the Housing Act 1985.
🚫 They do not require a PRC certificate – Unlike some other non-standard properties.
If a lender, surveyor, or solicitor mistakenly categorizes your BISF house as defective, clarify its correct classification to prevent unnecessary delays.
Common Issues with BISF Homes
While BISF houses were built as durable permanent structures, they do come with challenges that can affect their mortgageability, saleability, and insurance costs.
1. Mortgage Difficulties
Many lenders are reluctant to finance BISF properties due to their non-standard construction. However, some local building societies and specialist lenders may still approve mortgages with a higher deposit (lower LTV ratio).
2. Higher Insurance Costs
Home insurance providers charge more for BISF properties because of their steel frames and non-standard materials. It’s best to use a specialist insurer familiar with BISF homes.
3. Structural Issues & Repairs
- Corrosion in steel frames if not properly maintained.
- Poor insulation – Many BISF houses lack energy efficiency.
- Asbestos roofing – Some BISF houses contain asbestos cement roofing sheets.
If your BISF house requires repairs, consider obtaining specialist quotes before selling.
Selling a BISF House: Challenges & Solutions
Selling a BISF home through a traditional estate agent can take months or even years. Here are the main challenges and how to overcome them:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Mortgage rejections | Target cash buyers who don’t require mortgages. |
| Insurability concerns | Provide buyers with names of specialist insurers. |
| Misconceptions | Work with an experienced estate agent who understands BISF homes. |
| Structural issues | Carry out minor repairs or sell as-is to a property-buying company. |
| Slow sale process | Sell at auction or to a cash house-buying company. |
How to Improve Your Chances of Selling
If you’re selling on the open market, take these steps to attract buyers:
1. Work With a Knowledgeable Estate Agent
Most estate agents lack experience with BISF houses. Choose an agent who understands non-standard construction properties to avoid unnecessary delays.
2. Offer Proof of Structural Integrity
Arrange a structural survey to reassure buyers and mortgage lenders. A RICS surveyor can confirm the stability of the steel frame and document any repairs.
3. Improve Energy Efficiency
BISF homes lack insulation, making them less appealing to buyers. Consider external wall insulation or double-glazed windows to improve energy ratings and attract more interest.
4. Replace Asbestos Roofing (If Present)
If your home has original asbestos roofing, replacing it with modern materials could make it more mortgageable and increase its value.
5. Target Cash Buyers
Because of mortgage restrictions, cash buyers or property investors are often the best route. Auctions and property-buying companies can offer a quick and guaranteed sale.
FAQs About BISF Houses
1. Can I get a mortgage on a BISF house?
Yes, but only certain lenders offer mortgages on BISF homes. To improve approval chances:
– Work with a mortgage broker who specializes in non-standard properties.
– Lower your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio by increasing your deposit.
2. Are BISF houses durable?
Yes. A 1986 Building Research Establishment (BRE) report confirmed that most BISF houses are structurally sound. Regular maintenance ensures longevity.
3. Do all BISF houses contain asbestos?
Not all, but many have asbestos cement roofing sheets. If the asbestos is undamaged, it’s usually safe. However, replacing it can improve mortgageability.
4. Are BISF houses energy-efficient?
No. Original BISF homes have poor insulation, but you can improve efficiency by installing external insulation cladding or energy-efficient heating.
5. How much does a BISF house sell for?
Prices vary based on location, condition, and modifications. BISF homes usually sell for 10-20% less than standard brick-built homes.
6. What’s the fastest way to sell a BISF house?
Sell to a cash buyer (property-buying company) – Fastest and guaranteed sale.
Sell at auction – Faster than estate agents but not always a guaranteed price.
Make key improvements to attract mortgage buyers.
Sell to My Homebuyers: A Stress-Free Solution
Selling a BISF house can be frustrating due to mortgage restrictions, insurability issues, and misconceptions. At My Homebuyers, we buy BISF houses directly for cash, removing the hassle of the open market.
Why Sell to My Homebuyers?
✅ No Mortgage Delays – We buy with cash, so there’s no need for lender approval.
✅ Fast Sale in as Little as 2 Weeks – No waiting for buyers, surveys, or approvals.
✅ Sell As-Is – No need to replace asbestos roofing or carry out costly repairs.
✅ No Fees or Hidden Costs – No estate agent or legal fees to worry about.
✅ Guaranteed Sale – No risk of buyer fall-throughs.
Move Forward with Confidence
If you’re struggling to sell a BISF house, My Homebuyers provides a reliable, quick, and stress-free alternative. Click “Get a Cash Offer” today and take control of your sale!