CASE STUDY: transforming three Telford properties into two large HMO’s

Jeremy Ashworth is Founder & CEO of Cantata Properties. In this case study, he writes about his Telford project, where three properties were converted into two large HMO’s.

When the opportunity to purchase three terraced properties together arose, we immediately recognised their potential. We first sought prior approval for change of use from B1a to C3 residential, and then applied for planning permission to convert the properties into two large HMOs (9-bed and 10-bed), all with ensuite bathrooms.  

The biggest challenge was working with a new builder for the first time and trusting they would be competent, trustworthy and able to cope with Covid 19’s potential disruptions.

Plenty of communication, especially across the long distance between Telford and London (where we were based) was crucial. The builder engaged well with that. Trust was built quickly. From our side, we made sure we paid monthly bills immediately and listened to their sometimes alternative ideas. They bent over backwards to get us through Covid.

During construction

Completed Project

Lessons learned during this project

It is indeed possible to run a project from a sizeable distance (it was my first time so far away from London), as long as there is a good relationship with the builder.

Talk to the letting agents right at the start to understand the market as best you can. This enables confidence in the design. It also enabled an early conversation to start with the NHS, to whom we let out all 19 rooms at the very start.

When you have built up expertise in an area of property (eg high-end HMO’s), there is a lot to be said for sticking to that focus, as opposed to trying to do everything.

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