A real 45 m² flat transformation in central Bournemouth
Buying a run-down property and renovating it can be an opportunity to create a modern, functional home. But is it really worth the investment? The answer depends on more than the asking price. The condition of the building, the location, the renovation budget and the finished property’s intended use all matter. At DR Property Solutions, we recently transformed a tired 45 m² flat in central Bournemouth through a complete refurbishment costing approximately £38,000, including furnishings. The project shows how thoughtful space planning and careful decisions can turn an outdated interior into an attractive, practical home.
Look beyond the condition and understand what you are buying
A property can look extremely dated or neglected without necessarily having major structural problems. Equally, fresh paint and attractive photographs do not guarantee that a property is free from hidden defects. Buyers should look beyond the cosmetic condition and establish, as far as possible, the state of the building, its services and any areas that may need repair.
In our Bournemouth project, the flat was an older property in very run-down condition, but its underlying structure was in reasonably good condition. The refurbishment did not require structural alterations. Instead, we focused on stripping out the existing fittings and rethinking the internal layout to make better use of the available space.
The right layout can transform a small flat
At 45 square metres, every part of this flat needed to work hard. Rather than simply replacing the old kitchen and bathroom in their original positions, we completely remodelled the interior. The bedroom was moved to the front of the property, the kitchen was relocated from the front to the rear, and the bathroom was repositioned towards the centre of the flat.
The new arrangement created a more practical open-plan living area and a clearly defined bedroom. The layout changes were achieved using timber framing, without structural alterations. This is an important lesson for buyers: sometimes a property’s potential lies in the way its existing space is organised, not in adding more floor area.
Why replacing old electrics can make sense during a refurbishment
The existing electrical installation was very old, so we decided to replace it as part of the refurbishment. With the flat already stripped back, it was the right stage to install new wiring and conceal it within the walls, rather than retain dated surface-mounted cabling and plastic trunking.
Planning this work while the walls and finishes are being renewed can avoid the disruption of opening up completed surfaces later. Electrical work should be carried out and tested by an appropriately competent professional, with the relevant certification and Building Regulations requirements addressed.
What did the refurbishment cost?
The approximate cost of the complete refurbishment was £38,000, including furnishings. This figure relates to this particular 45 m² flat and the scope of work undertaken; it should not be treated as a standard price for other properties. Costs can vary substantially depending on the condition of the building, specification, materials, services, access and the amount of work required.
The purchase price also helped create a favourable starting point. We estimate it was around 20% lower, with the cash purchase contributing to that position. A cash offer does not automatically secure a discount, however. The outcome depends on the seller, market conditions and the terms being negotiated.
The important calculation is the total investment; not simply whether the property was cheap to buy. Before proceeding, buyers should allow for the purchase price, refurbishment, professional fees, taxes, financing and a contingency for unexpected costs. They should also consider the likely end value or realistic rental potential without assuming that a renovation will automatically produce a profit.
Get the right advice before committing
A suitable property survey can help a buyer understand the condition of a property and identify issues that may need further investigation. For an older or run-down property, the appropriate survey level will depend on its age, condition, construction and complexity. It is also sensible to obtain detailed written quotations and clarify whether proposed work needs planning permission, Building Regulations approval or other permissions.
For a flat, buyers should also check the lease, service charges, restrictions on alterations and any requirements that apply to the building. If the intended use is short-term holiday accommodation, such as Airbnb, they should confirm the relevant lease, planning, building, insurance and local requirements before relying on that use.
The result: a bright, modern home with a better flow
The completed Bournemouth flat is bright, cohesive and finished to a high standard. The redesigned layout makes the most of the 45 m² floor area, with an open-plan kitchen and living space, a well-defined bedroom and a contemporary bathroom. The result feels far more practical and spacious than the original arrangement.
A property like this may appeal to different people, including a couple looking for a first home or an owner considering a rental investment. Which option makes the most sense depends on the buyer’s plans, the numbers and the permissions that apply.
So, is buying a run-down property worth it?
It can be, but only when the purchase price, condition, renovation budget and intended outcome make sense together. A neglected property with a sound underlying structure may offer scope for a dramatic transformation, but buyers should never assume that appearance tells the whole story. Proper due diligence, realistic costing and good project planning are essential.
Our Bournemouth flat is an example of how a complete refurbishment can do more than update finishes. By reconsidering the layout, modernising the electrics and choosing a consistent specification, DR Property Solutions transformed an outdated 45 m² flat into a bright, functional living space.
If you are considering a full refurbishment or have a property whose potential is difficult to see, DR Property Solutions can help you explore the options. Contact our team to discuss your project and find out more about our full property refurbishment services in Bournemouth and the surrounding Dorset area.
References and useful links:
- RICS – House surveys: costs, types and benefits — Useful guidance on why a survey matters and choosing an appropriate level for an older or run-down property.
- Planning Portal – Building Regulations: electrics — Guidance on electrical work in homes in England and Wales, including competent installers and compliance.
- Planning Portal – Approved Documents — Overview of the guidance supporting Building Regulations, including Part P electrical safety.
