Three-bed home going to auction at £38k looks normal from the outside – but it’s hiding a disgusting secret

Three-bed home going to auction at £38k looks normal from the outside – but it’s hiding a disgusting secret

Imagine finding a house that, from the street, looks like any other ordinary home. A place with the potential for a fresh start, a new beginning. But what if, behind that seemingly normal facade, lay a scene of utter chaos and neglect? This is the reality of a property recently listed in Gwynedd, North Wales, and it's causing quite a stir.

This three-bedroom house, located about 10 miles from Caernarfon, presents a truly unique opportunity – or challenge, depending on your perspective. While the exterior might not be the most modern, the initial listing price of £38,000 certainly piqued the interest of many potential buyers and developers.

A cluttered, run-down house with overgrown vines on the facade and various items in the front yard.

However, the allure of a bargain quickly fades upon closer inspection. Once you step through the front door, you're confronted with a scene that's far from inviting. Prepare yourself, because what lies within is not for the faint of heart.

Instead of a cozy and welcoming interior, you're met with overflowing piles of rubbish and mountains of clutter. It's clear that the house has been severely neglected, with debris scattered across nearly every inch of the floor.

Overgrown three-bedroom house with a stone wall and metal gate, surrounded by dense foliage.

Imagine navigating through rooms filled with discarded furniture, broken items, and general disarray. The overwhelming feeling is one of profound neglect and decay. Vacant birdcages sit amidst the chaos, adding a touch of melancholy to the already unsettling scene.

And the problems don't stop there. The house also suffers from broken windows, holes in the walls, and damaged floors. It's a veritable fixer-upper, to put it mildly.

A room with a wooden beam ceiling, stone walls, and a floor covered with a large pile of varied clutter.

Adding insult to injury, mold stains are visible in multiple rooms, a clear indication of dampness and poor ventilation. The entire house is in dire need of a deep clean and a comprehensive renovation.

Vicky James from Williams & Goodwin, the estate agents handling the sale, acknowledges the extent of the work required. She describes the property as needing "renovation and refurbishment," emphasizing that it could be a "really good buy" for the right person.

A cluttered ground floor bathroom with exposed wooden beams, old light bulbs, a blue tarp, and various household items.

But before you grab your checkbook, consider this: potential buyers will undoubtedly need to equip themselves with masks and gloves before even setting foot inside. The sheer volume of debris and the unsanitary conditions necessitate extreme caution.

In fact, the estate agents are advising against in-person viewings due to the hazardous state of the property. This speaks volumes about the severity of the situation and underscores the need for a thorough assessment before making any commitments.

A heavily cluttered room with peeling paint on the ceiling and walls, and rubbish piled high.

The house is being sold "as seen," meaning that the buyer accepts it in its current condition, warts and all. And while the listing states that the "contents aren't included in the sale, they will not be removed." So, what you see is what you get – a house full of unwanted belongings that will become your responsibility to dispose of.

Despite the challenges, Ms. James believes that the guide price of £38,000 is "realistic," although she acknowledges that it could potentially rise with sufficient interest. The online auction is scheduled for October 9th, offering a chance for someone to take on this ambitious project.

A dilapidated and cluttered ground-floor bathroom in a house.

So, who is the ideal buyer for a property like this? According to Ms. James, it's typically an investor or a first-time buyer who is prepared to undertake a significant renovation project. They often have experience with property development or are willing to learn.

Her advice to prospective buyers is clear: "Do your research, understand the legal process, and know the renovation costs in advance." This is crucial to avoid any unexpected surprises and ensure that the project remains financially viable.

Ground-floor bathroom in disrepair with a crib, toilet, and sink.

Despite the daunting task ahead, Ms. James maintains a positive outlook. "It could be a great opportunity for someone," she says, emphasizing the potential for transformation and the chance to create something truly special.

But this isn't the only property on the market with a hidden surprise. In contrast to the dilapidated state of the Gwynedd house, there are other homes that conceal unexpected, albeit more appealing, features.

A neglected house exterior with peeling paint and clutter.

For example, there's a seemingly ordinary house that hides a sci-fi surprise inside. While it appears normal from the outside, the interior has been transformed into a themed living space, catering to fans of science fiction.

Another property boasts a unique feature: its own dance floor, bar, and cinema. This "party house" offers a dedicated space for entertainment and social gatherings, perfect for those who love to host events.

These contrasting examples highlight the diverse range of properties available on the market, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. From the challenging renovation project in Gwynedd to the entertainment-focused party house, there's something for everyone.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a property with hidden quirks depends on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you're seeking a blank canvas for a complete transformation or a ready-made entertainment hub, the key is to do your research and understand the potential challenges and rewards.

So, before you embark on your property search, remember to look beyond the surface and consider what lies beneath. You might just find a hidden gem – or a diamond in the rough – waiting to be discovered. And remember to research the legal process of buying auctioned property.

Whether you're drawn to the challenge of a major renovation or the allure of a unique and unexpected feature, the world of real estate offers a wide array of possibilities. Happy house hunting!