Truro Property Market and Real Estate Guide

(Truro, Cornwall, England, UK)

The city of Truro nestles in one of the loveliest of England's counties, Cornwall. Famous as a holiday destination for its mild climate, Cornwall is the south-westernmost promontory of the country and bounded on both sides by the sea. With its ancient river port, cobbled streets, cathedral and Georgian architecture, Truro is a popular residential destination for artists and retirees, as well as a social hub for the county.

The city is the commercial, administrative and retail centre of the county, and has experienced substantial development since the area's decline as a tin-mining centre. Retail, leisure and the tourism trade are now the mainstays of its economy and many people commute to the city to work. Transportation in the area is by road and rail, and Truro's small airport is a fast-growing regional hub.


Due to its popularity, property prices in Truro are at least eight percent higher than in the rest of Cornwall, and are still at an all-time high despite falls during the last two years, possibly due to the strong demand for second homes in the area. Local authorities are pressing for more affordable new-builds and calling for the conversion of inner city properties to apartments, to alleviate the present shortage of affordable homes.

Townhouses in Georgian terraces are the most sought-after homes and command high prices, as they are close to the amenities of the pedestrianised city centre. Less expensive homes can be found at the edge of the city, and in smaller towns and villages nearby.

Renting Serviced Apartments and Holiday Cottages

The few serviced apartments in Truro are aimed at holiday lets, although landlords may be persuaded to accept long-stay lets off-season. Serviced apartments might seem a little out of place in a town like Truro, and most of the short-term rental accommodation is provided in the form of B&Bs (with long term rates) and hotels. In fact the whole idea of apartments in this tourist corner of England seems a bit redundant. Certainly there is little demand for business person-orientated serviced apartments.

During the summer months, demand rises considerably and much of the local industry is now based on tourism, which puts pressure on rentals for any other purpose. You're more likely to find a cottage or similar for several months with serviced facilities by arrangement.

Buying Apartments and Houses

Stone-built cottages, apartment conversions in Georgian townhouses, bungalows, country properties with land or even a listed historic home are all attractive options in this picturesque city. This is the result of its beautiful surroundings, although patience may be necessary due to the shortfall in supply.

Non-citizens may purchase property in the UK, although year-round residence may be problematic. The process is simple and a solicitor is a must. Once a suitable property is found, your solicitor will put your offer to the seller. If accepted, a ten percent deposit is lodged with the solicitor and the necessary legalities are dealt with. On an older property, a structural survey is recommended. Once the final contract is signed, the full purchase price is released to the seller and the land transfer takes place. Charges should amount to around five percent of the price, and stamp duty of between one and five percent will be payable, dependent on the price.

Real Estate Agents

Most Cornish estate agencies' portfolios include most of the county, as well as the town in which they are located. Friendly service comes as standard in this region.

Check out the following real estate agents:

Philip Martin
Address: 9 Cathedral Lane, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 2QS, England
Tel: +44 01872 242 244
Email: via website
Website: www.philip-martin.co.uk
This local Cornish agency was established in 1986 and has good local knowledge.

Stags
Address: 61 Lemon Street, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 2PE, England
Tel: +44 01872 264 488
Email: truro@stags.co.uk
Website: www.stags.co.uk/company/offices/truro.php
This company has branches in other Cornish towns and a helpful website.

Miller and Son
Address: Comprigney House, Comprigney Hill, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3EF, England
Tel: +44 01872 277 794
Email: jsh@millerson.com
Website: www.millerson.com
Miller and Son specialise in upmarket properties across Cornwall, with a particular interest in Truro and its surrounding area.