Selling a Cornish Unit house can be difficult due to mortgage restrictions, structural concerns, and its classification as a defective property. However, with the right approach, you can still achieve a successful sale.
At My Homebuyers, we provide a fast, hassle-free alternative, allowing you to sell your Cornish Unit property quickly without the uncertainty of the open market.
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Sell Your Property Quickly & Easily
If you’re struggling to sell your Cornish Unit 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 delays, fall-throughs, or costly repairs.
- No mortgage issues – We buy in cash, eliminating lender concerns.
- No repairs needed – Sell your Cornish Unit home as-is.
- Guaranteed sale – No risk of buyers pulling out or being denied financing.
- Fast completion – Move forward within weeks, not months.
What is a Cornish Unit House?
A Cornish Unit house is a non-standard construction home built from pre-cast reinforced concrete (PRC). Over 30,000 of these properties were built across the UK between 1946 and the 1960s to meet post-war housing demand.
There are two types of Cornish Units:
- Type I – Ground floor made of PRC panels, with a timber-clad first floor enclosed by a mansard roof.
- Type II – Two-storey PRC construction, without the mansard-style roof.
Are Cornish Unit Houses Defective?
Yes. Both Type I and Type II were classified as defective under the Housing Defects Act 1984 and the Housing Act 1985 due to structural concerns with their PRC construction. This designation significantly impacts mortgageability and saleability.
Common Issues with Cornish Unit Houses
While Cornish Unit houses were built as affordable housing, they come with challenges that affect their mortgageability, saleability, and insurability.
1. Mortgage Restrictions
Most lenders will not approve mortgages for Cornish Units unless they have been repaired under an approved PRC repair scheme and come with a PRC Certificate.
2. Insurance Difficulties
Many insurers consider Cornish Units a higher risk due to their concrete structure and potential for hidden defects. This often leads to higher insurance premiums.
3. Structural Issues
- Concrete degradation – PRC homes suffer from structural deterioration over time.
- Asbestos presence – Many original Cornish Units contain asbestos cement roofing and insulation.
- Poor insulation – Older Cornish Units are known for their poor energy efficiency, leading to higher heating costs.
If your Cornish Unit house requires repairs, consider obtaining specialist quotes before selling.
Selling a Cornish Unit House: Challenges & Solutions
Selling a Cornish Unit property through a traditional estate agent can take months or even years. Here’s how to overcome common challenges:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Mortgage restrictions | Target cash buyers who don’t require financing. |
| Insurability concerns | Provide buyers with names of specialist insurers. |
| Structural concerns | Conduct a survey or sell as-is to a cash-buying company. |
| Slow sale process | Sell at auction or to a property-buying company. |
How to Improve Your Chances of Selling
If you’re selling on the open market, take these steps to attract buyers:
1. Ensure You Have a PRC Certificate (If Repaired)
If your Cornish Unit house has been repaired, ensure you have a PRC Certificate. Lenders will not approve a mortgage without one.
2. Work With a Knowledgeable Estate Agent
Many estate agents lack experience with Cornish Units. Choose an agent who understands non-standard construction properties to avoid delays.
3. Consider Repairing the Property
If your Cornish Unit is unmodified, consider approved PRC repairs. While expensive, it will increase mortgageability and sale price.
4. Target Cash Buyers
Mortgage restrictions limit the buyer pool. Cash buyers or property investors are often the best route for a quick sale.
5. Sell at Auction
Auctions attract investors who specialize in non-standard homes. This route often leads to faster sales than traditional listings.
Top Tips for Selling a Cornish Unit House
✔ Be transparent about the property’s condition – Buyers will appreciate full disclosure.
✔ Gather all relevant documentation – PRC Certificate, surveys, and insurance details help reassure buyers.
✔ Price competitively – Cornish Unit homes generally sell for 10-25% below standard properties.
✔ Tidy up and improve kerb appeal – A well-maintained property attracts more buyers.
✔ Use specialist estate agents or auctions – This will help you target the right audience.
Costs of Repairs and Selling Considerations
| Repair Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| PRC repair scheme (full) | £20,000 – £50,000 |
| Asbestos removal | £2,000 – £10,000 |
| External insulation | £5,000 – £15,000 |
| Roof replacement | £7,000 – £20,000 |
| Auction fees | 2-3% of sale price |
| Estate agent fees | 1-2% of sale price |
Before committing to repairs, consider whether selling as-is to a cash buyer might be a better financial decision.
Sell to My Homebuyers? A Stress-Free Solution
Selling a Cornish Unit house can be frustrating due to mortgage restrictions, insurability issues, and misconceptions. At My Homebuyers, we buy Cornish Unit houses directly for cash, removing the hassle of the open market.
FAQs About Selling a Cornish Unit House
1. Can I get a mortgage on a Cornish Unit house?
Most mortgage lenders will not approve a mortgage for a Cornish Unit house unless it has undergone an approved PRC repair and has a PRC Certificate.
2. Are Cornish Unit houses safe to live in?
Yes, many Cornish Unit houses are still lived in today. However, due to concrete degradation, poor insulation, and potential asbestos presence, they may require structural surveys and repairs.
3. Do Cornish Unit houses contain asbestos?
Yes, many original Cornish Unit houses contain asbestos, particularly in roofing, insulation, and some internal fittings.
4. Can I sell a Cornish Unit house without making repairs?
Yes, but your best options are to sell to a cash buyer or through auction.
Conclusion: Should You Sell Your Cornish Unit House?
If you’re struggling with mortgage issues, costly repairs, or slow market demand, selling to a cash buyer or at auction can be the best route. At My Homebuyers, we provide guaranteed offers with no fees or hidden costs, ensuring a fast and hassle-free sale.
Click “Get a Cash Offer” today and take control of your sale!