An Essex estate agent has reported a rise in beach hut sales following this summer’s prolonged hot weather. Boydens has sold 16 huts so far this year in Frinton-on-Sea and surrounding coastal areas, with further sales awaiting completion.
Prices and buyers
Prices range from around £10,000 to more than £60,000, depending on location. The agency said buyers have included families and grandparents from areas such as Brentwood, Chelmsford and Romford. Popular locations include High Wall, Low Wall and The Leas in Frinton-on-Sea, while Southcliff in neighbouring Walton-on-the-Naze has also attracted buyers.
In some cases, Boydens said offers have been accepted within hours of a hut coming onto the market.
Demand continues beyond summer
Zenna Everett, sales and lettings negotiator at Boydens’ Frinton-on-Sea office, said: “The level of interest in acquiring beach huts has gone through the roof this summer. In some cases, a hut has come on the market and within hours we’ve had an offer accepted.
“The prolonged heatwave has been a big factor with people wanting to spend more time at the beach.
“Most of the sales have been to clients living in the likes of Brentwood, Chelmsford and Romford who just want somewhere to escape to with their children or grandchildren.
“The majority of the beach huts are in good condition and come sold as seen with all the contents included like table and chairs, crockery, glasses, buckets and spades and the like. Some are already beautifully done while others might just need a lick of paint.
“There is a beach hut for all budgets with some starting at around £10,000 and others fetching more than £60,000 depending on location.
“Even now at the end of summer, demand is still strong. We completed on five in August and we have others going through this month.”
Buyer’s dream realised
One buyer, Elizabeth Gibbins, paid £16,000 for a hut at Southcliff in August. She said: “It’s been my dream to own one since moving here five years ago. My husband finally gave in to stop me nagging him. It’s a wonderful space for my granddaughters to enjoy as they grow up.”
Beach huts are sold in a range of conditions and may be subject to an annual licence fee payable to the local authority. Boydens operates branches in Colchester, Frinton-on-Sea, Kelvedon and Sudbury.
