Right, today we are heading for Devon to look at a gorgeous Grade II Listed 3 bedroom property that is in need of a little TLC, but overall it is in pretty good condition. So it's not looking to be a massive job at first glance anyways, so lets take a closer look at what it's got to offer, and discover just what work will be required to make the best of this charming property :-)

Originally built in 1874/1875 this Victorian school with its adjoining mistress' house closed in the 1930s. More recently it has been upgraded and improved under the same ownership for over 40yrs, and is presented in good condition but with some refurbishment needed. One thing is for sure, this is a stunning property both inside and out, with numerous original features on show at every turn.

Making a start with the grounds, it's such a lovely setting with plenty mature trees and lawn space. Yes, the garden looks a little untidy in places, the gravel path needs attention for example, but it is totally ideal as a starting point from which to tailor this outdoor space to meet your personal wants and needs. There doesn't appear to be anything too time consuming or difficult needing done, just general tidying up and maintenance.

One thing I almost overlooked was a wonderfully placed bench in the side garden. I'm not quite sure if it's weathered stone or wood actually, but it definitely adds a little charm to the grounds. There is one thing that jumps out at me as needing work done when I look at the wonderful exterior of this lovely property... nope, it's not the roof(yup, sighs of relief all round that the roof looks well maintained), but it is those quirky windows. Set in lovely stone apertures are some lovely traditional leaded windows, which look great, but if they're original they aren't going to be like your modern double glazing...

Hmmm, nor do I think the white framed(wooden I think?) windows, that part or fully fill the space in most if not all of those fantastic shaped openings, will be double glazed either. I may be wrong, but to me they appear single glazed, and added at some time later than the original leaded windows of course. They will be cheaper to maintain I'm sure, traditional window leading isn't as common a craft these days, though the modern addition is still not anywhere close to double glazing. So, there is a choice here... modern double glazing in a leaded style perhaps? Or all out traditional since it's a nice rural setting without so much noise from roads or neighbours? Perhaps even something in between will suit, but I'd hope it will be less clashing than that current mixture of old and much much older!

Now, let's have a quick scout round inside, where I can see mostly positives at every turn, and plenty fabby features. One fantastic discovery is how little has been done to the old schoolhouse. It's one single large room inside, with skylights allowing loads of light in, and a wonderful big fireplace with stove. It's a large space to heat, so you may need to consider winter temperatures and check that glazing before you choose to make this into your main reception room for example... but even if only used part time, this is an excellent space that works well for use in a multitude of ways including for photography or dance.

Moving into the house itself, there are white walls at every turn, the rooms are all a good size, and those black beams in the living room look great! Again there is another brill fireplace on show in there, as well as some rather nice wooden doors. The kitchen units aren't the most modern, but there's still a bit of life in them yet I reckon. Even the bedrooms are light, airy, and with good proportions. My only last concern not fully laid to rest by this point is the bathroom. We haven't been shown any images of a bathroom, but I am pleased to read that it is apparently also a wetroom... which implies the room has been refurbished at some stage in more recent times. It's a relief to discover this, as even well maintained Victorian plumbing is likely to need updating by this point in time! ;-)

So yes, there is a little bit here and there needing polished or improved, but the windows do seem to be the only bigger task requiring attention. It is also a listed building, so I'm not sure what leeway or restrictions may apply with regards to window replacing/updating... so that might be worth enquiring about if it's something important to you. If you're after a piece of history that exudes copious amounts of charm and charisma, then maybe you won't mind keeping those quirky old windows as long as they're water-tight...

Whatever way you see it, there is plenty of time to make any enquiries since this one's not up at auction until 6th April... don't take too long though peeps, as the quirky old character properties can be a little thin on the ground, especially ones this accessible to the less experienced investor or owner occupier! :-)