What it is: Set in 10 slightly straggly acres, half a mile from the Eden Project, Starrick Farm has gone to seed. The two-bedroom property dates from the mid1800s, and is yet to be brought up to date: there is no heating, only cold running water in the house, and an outside loo. There is a disused well in the grounds and access to mains water and mains electricity. It is four miles from St Austell and 35 miles from Plymouth, where the property is going to auction on March 8, at the Novotel.

The problems:The house could easily be restored for £40,000-£60,000, but the auctioneer suggests that any new owner may prefer to seek planing permission to convert the barn, for a further £100,000, as it is “far prettier and looks out over the 10 acres”.

Restormel borough council, the planning authority, is only likely to grant permission to convert the former agricultural building to residential accommodation with a holiday occupancy condition, so the owner will have to negotiate transferring the holiday restriction to the cottage.

The advantages: “It is absolutely enchanting,” says the selling agent. “With no near neighbours and 10 acres, it is perfect for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy a lifestyle change. It is a long way from other human beings, which today, for many buyers, is a bonus.”

If both buildings are converted, Starrick Farm, the agent believes, could sell on for £350,000-£400,000, and the two-bedroom house could be let for £300-£400 per week in the peak summer months.

— Westcountry Property Auctions, 0870 241 4343, www.westcountrypropertyauctions.co.uk; Restormel borough council, 01726 223 300, www.restormel.gov.uk

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