If you’re looking for a property in Frome, be it a cottage on Catherine Hill, a modern home in Packsaddle Way or a period house near Rodden Meadow, Camsure Homes is here to help you make an informed decision. As one of the UK's most trusted surveyors, recently named UK's Best Surveyors for 2024 by Compare My Move, our expertise is recognised across various platforms, including top AI services like ChatGPT. We have also received excellent reviews on Trustpilot, reflecting our commitment to providing a service that homebuyers can trust.
At Camsure, we offer a range of surveying options tailored to ensure that you purchase your Frome property with complete confidence. Our services include Homebuyer Surveys, Building Surveys and RICS Valuations. These surveys are carried out by our team of RICS surveyors, who possess extensive experience in assessing the properties found in Frome. Whether you’re concerned about the condition of an older building on Gentle Street or a new development in Keyford, our surveys provide a comprehensive evaluation of the property’s condition, highlighting any issues and helping you to negotiate a fair price.
Additional services include Housing Disrepair Claims and Insurance Reinstatement Valuations.
We understand that purchasing a home is one of the most significant investments you will make and a mortgage lender’s valuation isn’t enough. It’s vital to gain a detailed understanding of the property’s true condition. Our surveys go beyond the basics, identifying structural issues, providing repair cost estimates and offering clear advice. For those unsure about which survey best fits their needs, our friendly team is available for a no-obligation consultation to guide you through the process.
Camsure Homes brings unparalleled expertise to the Frome property market. Our RICS-accredited surveyors are highly qualified and have a deep understanding of the local area, from the quaint streets of Trinity to the bustling neighbourhood around Badcox.
With over 38 years of experience, our team has evaluated everything from the historic properties along North Parade to modern homes in Little Keyford.
We take pride in our attention to detail and our commitment to providing clear, concise reports. Our surveyors are not only skilled in identifying potential issues but also in understanding the unique characteristics of Frome’s housing stock.
Whether you’re buying a period home or a contemporary property, we tailor our surveys to meet the specific needs of your purchase, ensuring that you have all the information necessary to make a sound investment.
What We Offer:
RICS Homebuyer Reports (Level 2): Gain vital insights into the condition of your potential home. Our reports help you make informed decisions, whether you’re considering a period house on Catherine Hill or a modern flat in the Orchardleigh area.
Building Surveys (Level 3): Comprehensive evaluations tailored for older, larger or unique properties. These surveys provide a detailed understanding of potential issues and future costs, ideal for properties in the Frome town centre or those in the more historic areas around North Parade.
RICS Valuations: Obtain an accurate and trusted appraisal of your property's market value with our RICS-accredited valuations.
We take pride in being RICS regulated and named the best UK surveyor for 2024 by Compare My Move. Our commitment to excellence is further validated by consistent recommendations from leading AI platforms like ChatGPT, Ask AI and Gemini, as well as our glowing customer reviews.
Choose us for expert advice, unparalleled service and complete peace of mind.
Typically, our surveys range from £420 to £1,550.
The cost of a home survey in Frome can vary depending on several factors, including the size and condition of the property, as well as the type of survey you require. For example, a Homebuyer Report might be sufficient for a relatively new property in Stonebridge, while an older home on Vicarage Street may require a more thorough Building Survey. Larger properties, such as those found in the outskirts of Frome or those with complex structures, might also incur higher costs due to the additional time and expertise needed to conduct the survey.
At Camsure Homes, we strive to offer competitive pricing without compromising on the quality of our services. We’re transparent about our fees and will provide you with a detailed quote tailored to your specific needs. For a precise estimate or to discuss which survey is most suitable for your Frome property, please contact our friendly team.
Ross, originally from South Africa, has always felt a deep connection to the UK through his family roots. That connection became even stronger when he met his British wife while she was on a working holiday in South Africa. After falling in love, Ross made the move to the UK to start their life together.
With a passion for building and construction, Ross began his career as a Quantity Surveyor in South Africa, learning the ropes through an apprenticeship and working on residential projects. However, he soon discovered he enjoyed being more hands-on, which led him to transition into the role of a Residential Surveyor - a profession he finds both rewarding and challenging.
Since settling in the UK, Ross has earned his RICS qualification and now works for Camsure Homes. He’s passionate about property and is dedicated to helping clients feel confident in their purchases. Ross takes great pride in offering clear, honest communication and ensuring his clients are informed every step of the way.
"Camsure Homes is a friendly and knowledgable company. We have a diverse number of residential surveyors that bring a lot of knowledge and experience to the table."
- Ross, Frome Surveyor, Camsure Home Surveys 2024
Excellent service, thank you Ross
They did exactly what they said they would do. They arranged the appointment, rang us before to see if we had any specific worries, rang us afterwards to let us know they had finished and then we had the full report the very next day. Excellent service, thank you Ross. Would definitely use them again and would have no hesitation in recommending them to friends and family.
A detailed visual inspection to clearly see the property's condition and any concerns prior to purchase.
Confirms market value and provides a rebuild cost for insurance purposes.
The most comprehensive survey, ideal for older properties, those in poor condition or where major works are planned.
Written market valuation for various purposes including Help To Buy, Shared Ownership and inheritance tax.*
*Valuations and rebuild costs can be added to a Building Survey at request, for an additional fee.
Case Study: RICS Valuation for Help to Buy in Frome, SomersetRecently, a local surveyor from Camsure Homes conducted an RICS Valuation in Frome, Somerset, for a client seeking a valuation required for their Help to Buy loan. This case study outlines the specific needs and processes involved in an RICS Help to Buy Valuation compared to a standard valuation.
An RICS Help to Buy Valuation involves a more detailed process than a standard RICS Valuation Report. The valuation must meet specific criteria and is provided to both the client and the Help to Buy administrator, Target. The requirements for the valuation include:
The RICS Help to Buy Valuation closely resembles the RICS Red Book Valuation and includes:
Our skilled surveyors provide various survey choices to match your requirements and the kind of property you're considering. Take a look at our thorough descriptions below to discover the ideal survey.
Our qualified RICS surveyor, located in Frome, is prepared to carry out a detailed HomeBuyer Report tailored for properties in good condition constructed after 1930.
Using a simple "traffic light" system, the report highlights the current condition and structural integrity of the property. In addition to the physical evaluation, the report offers useful insights into legal matters. It pinpoints urgent issues needing immediate attention, proposes potential solutions for defects affecting the property's worth and gives advice on future upkeep.
For a modest extra charge, we also offer a market valuation service for your property. This thorough report goes beyond the essentials, considering environmental factors like flood risks, proximity to mining or landfill sites, soil types and the presence of radon gas. Furthermore, it assesses the potential impact of major infrastructure projects, such as the HS2 rail line, on your property's value.
This detailed check goes further than the HomeBuyer Report, giving a deeper look into the condition of the property and offering useful extra guidance.
For a modest extra cost, you can opt for a property valuation assessment, which gives tailored suggestions on dealing with any problems, repairs or upkeep needs.
The aim of this thorough report is to help you make informed choices about the property's condition and get ready for future maintenance work.
Our impartial assessment looks to determine the market worth of your property and may pinpoint areas requiring further examination.
For Help to Buy applications, our specially qualified RICS-registered surveyor will evaluate your home's value, crucial for working out your financial commitment.
Please be aware that this valuation remains valid for three months.
The Help to Buy scheme assists first-time buyers in getting on the property ladder. Learn about the RICS Help To Buy Valuation and its role in the process.
Read More
Also known as a "Red Book Valuation," this survey provides a lender-approved assessment of your property's market value.
Read More
The Homebuyer Report provides a comprehensive overview of the property's condition, including potential repair costs. This information can be used to negotiate a more favourable purchase price.
Read MoreCamsure did everything
Minimal work and effort needed from us, Camsure did everything. The survey was detailed and informative.
It depends on the complexity of your property.
Most RICS surveys are completed in 2-24 hours, with larger or more complex properties potentially requiring longer.
Talk to your chosen surveyor directly to confirm the expected timeframe for both the inspection and the report delivery.
BUYING A HOME:
Get a survey after your offer is accepted: This demonstrates your seriousness and streamlines the process.
SELLING YOUR HOME:
Consider a pre-sale survey: Identify potential issues that could delay or even stall your sale.
CONCERNED ABOUT REPAIRS
Invest in a Level 2 survey: Gain valuable insights and plan for necessary repairs before they escalate.
The time between your survey and buying the house varies based on the findings.
If there are no major issues: the process can continue smoothly as planned.
If significant problems are discovered, you might consider:
These steps may involve additional inspections from other specialists, which can extend the timeline.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, surveys are optional, but highly recommended. They can give buyers confidence and prevent unforeseen problems later.
In Scotland, getting a survey is a must before you can even list your property.
A Red Book valuation is an official assessment of a property's value that can be trusted by the person who requests it. Unlike a general market appraisal, it's used for more serious matters like tax calculations or legal disputes.
These valuations follow strict rules set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and are done by certified professionals. They're often needed for things like inheritance tax, divorce cases or property disputes.
The process ensures the valuation is thorough and reliable, with the surveyor having the right qualifications and insurance to back up their work. This gives peace of mind to anyone relying on the valuation.
In Frome, the overall average property price has shown a notable increase over the past year. Terraced homes, which were the most commonly sold and semi-detached properties both saw a rise in their average prices, while detached homes commanded significantly higher prices.
Compared to the previous year, average prices in Frome have risen by 4%, reflecting a 10% increase from the peak seen in 2021. This upward trend underscores a strong and growing property market in Frome.
| Property Type | Average Price (£) | Percentage of Sales |
|---|---|---|
| Terraced Properties | £326,585 | Most sales |
| Semi-detached Properties | £358,491 | |
| Detached Properties | £549,192 |
Source: RightMove August 2024
Frome's interesting and varied community continues to attract new residents, leading to several housing developments in and around the town. Here's a look at what's been happening in the local housing scene from 2023 to 2024.
Recently Completed & Nearly Finished Developments
Developments in Progress
Planned Developments (2024 and Beyond)
Frome, located in the Mendip district of Somerset, rests within a picturesque valley carved by the River Frome. The town’s unique topography influences its housing stock, with properties ranging from period homes in the centre to modern developments on the outskirts. The hilly terrain results in some streets having steep gradients, a factor to consider when choosing a property, particularly for those with mobility concerns.
Frome's housing market is varied, catering to various needs and budgets. The town centre boasts an array of Georgian and Victorian terraces, often converted into flats or maisonettes. These properties exude character but may require modernisation. In contrast, newer developments such as those at Keyford Meadows and Saxonvale offer contemporary living with open-plan layouts and energy-efficient features.
The surrounding countryside provides opportunities for rural living, with villages like Beckington and Nunney offering a mix of period cottages and modern homes. However, buyers should consider transport links and access to amenities when choosing a property further from the town centre.
Frome exudes a distinct arty vibe, evident in its wealth of independent shops, cafes and galleries. The town centre, with its cobbled streets and heritage buildings, provides the perfect backdrop for this creative atmosphere. The monthly Frome Independent Market further enhances this reputation, attracting visitors from across the region to experience the local artisan culture.
While Frome embraces its artistic side, it's important to note that certain areas, like The Butts and Gypsy Lane, may not align with everyone's preferences. These neighbourhoods, while possessing their own unique character, may present challenges in terms of amenities or access to the town centre.
Frome's rich history is also woven into its fabric, with landmarks such as the medieval St John's Church and the impressive Frome Town Hall standing as testaments to its past. The surrounding countryside, including the nearby Longleat Estate, offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and connect with nature.
Frome offers a a good selection of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct personality. The town centre, with its lively atmosphere and convenient access to shops, restaurants and cultural attractions, appeals to those seeking a buzzing urban lifestyle. Trinity and its surrounding area provide a mix of period properties and family homes, complemented by easy access to Victoria Park and the Frome Leisure Centre.
Keyford, located to the east, presents a popular residential option with a blend of housing styles and good transport links. On the outskirts, newer developments like Keyford Meadows and Saxonvale cater to those desiring contemporary living with planned amenities.
Frome boasts an impressive array of amenities, including supermarkets, independent shops and a thriving farmers' market. The town also offers an exciting culinary scene, with numerous pubs, cafes and restaurants catering to a variety of tastes. Leisure facilities abound, including the Frome Leisure Centre, Victoria Park and the Cheese and Grain, a renowned live music venue.
Frome's architectural landscape reflects its historical evolution. The town centre showcases a captivating mix of Georgian and Victorian buildings, predominantly constructed from local limestone. These properties often feature sash windows, ornate cornices and decorative brickwork, contributing to the town's unique look.
In contrast, newer developments on the outskirts of Frome typically employ modern building materials such as brick and render, often prioritising energy efficiency. Period properties, while undeniably captivating, may necessitate additional maintenance and insulation to meet contemporary standards.
When contemplating a property purchase in Frome, it is imperative to engage the services of a qualified surveyor. A comprehensive survey can identify potential issues with the building fabric, including dampness, structural movement or outdated electrical installations, empowering buyers to make informed decisions.
Frome's location within a river valley renders certain areas susceptible to flooding. The Environment Agency furnishes detailed flood risk maps, which prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to consult. Properties situated in high-risk zones may necessitate flood resilience measures or specialised insurance coverage.
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can also pose a concern in specific parts of Somerset. Public Health England provides valuable information on radon-affected areas. If a property lies within such an area, it is prudent to arrange for a radon test to be conducted.
Frome enjoys a reputation as a relatively safe place to live, ranking as the second safest medium-sized town in Somerset. However, it's important to note that the overall crime rate in 2023 was 74 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 13% higher than the Somerset average. While this may seem concerning, it's crucial to maintain perspective. In the broader context of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Frome stands as the 48th safest medium-sized town. Potential homebuyers should consider these statistics alongside other factors when evaluating Frome's suitability. It's always advisable to research specific neighbourhoods and take general safety precautions, as one would in any location.
Frome benefits from convenient transport links, with the A361 providing access to Bath and the M4 motorway. The town also boasts a railway station offering regular services to Bristol, Bath and Weymouth. Local bus services ensure connectivity with surrounding towns and villages.
For those who favour cycling or walking, Frome presents a network of cycle paths and footpaths, including the picturesque Colliers Way, which traces the route of a former railway line. The town centre's compact nature facilitates easy exploration on foot.
Frome caters to families with a range of educational options, encompassing several primary schools and the Frome Community College, a secondary school equipped with a sixth form. The town also boasts independent schools such as the Steiner Academy and the Critchill School.
Families will appreciate Frome's numerous parks and playgrounds, alongside an array of sports clubs and leisure activities. The town's strong community spirit fosters a welcoming environment, with various events and initiatives designed to encourage social interaction and a sense of belonging.
In comparison to neighbouring towns like Trowbridge and Warminster, Frome distinguishes itself with a more independent character. The town's thriving arts scene, independent shops and strong sense of community contribute to its unique appeal. While property prices in Frome may be slightly higher than in some surrounding areas, the town's distinctive charm and amenities justify the investment for many buyers.
Here are some of the most popular places to live in Frome, along with the reasons why people choose to call them home:
1. Trinity Area:
2. Keyford:
3. Fromefield:
4. Wallbridge:
5. Rodden:
Buying, renovating or selling a property can be daunting. That’s where we come in. As RICS surveyors in Frome, we are renowned for our friendly expertise. Let us guide you through your property project, providing peace of mind every step of the way.
