As one goes on sale for £200,000 property experts reveals why Brits are going for the beach huts

THEY were once derided as tacky and old-fashioned and seen to be about as valuable as a kiss-me-quick hat sold in a seaside shop.

But soaring numbers of people are now racing to try and own their own beach-hutand it is sending their value soaring.

Just last month one of the tiny shed-like structures went on the market for a staggering £200,000.

The hut, on Abersoch’s popular PorthMawr beach, is now expected to fetch far more than many houses go for in and around the North Wales beauty spot.

The hut has a private deck which, said the agents, afford “stunning sea views” across to St Tudwals Islands. And despite the absence of running water, drainage or electricity, buyers can be reassured it provides “ample storage”.

On Twitter one user wondered if it came complete with a “parking space for the Lambo”. Another inquired as to whether Waitrose made deliveries.

Commenting on the surging numbers of people racing to own a beach hutJonathan Rolande, from House Buy Fast, said: “With the ever-growing popularity of the staycation, demand for beach huts has hit new highs. Many who have owned for some years are delighted with the growth of their investment and lots of owners get great use from them throughout the year. But many huts languish, little used by owners who cannot find the time to make use of them as they had hoped. Taking on a beach hut is a big commitment that needs careful consideration.”

With Summer rapidly approaching Jonathan said there are a number of things people considering buying a beach but need to remember.

Here’s his 9-point guide.

· Start by asking will you really use it? Many sit idle because owners can’t find the time when the weather is good to visit. Some can be a home from home but returning to the same place time and time again won’t suit everyone.

· Think about the costs. Other than the buying cost, factor in a council/land owner transfer fee (often around £300), repainting every year or two (£300), Insurance (£200)

· Insurance should cover most perils but think how you’d feel if the hut was targeted by thieves, vandals or was damaged in a storm – it happens.

· Forget about waking up to the sound of the sea. Most (almost all) forbid overnight stays.

· Don’t be caught short. Remember to check the distance to the nearest tap, toilet, shop and café. Some can be a long way away.

· Don’t get the dog too excited. Check first to see if pets are allowed – fair chance they might be forbidden.

· Ask why are you buying it. If you hope to rent it out, check that’s allowed and see how much you’ll get. A hut in Mudeford will let at £900 a week but many might only earn that in a year.

· You can work from there but not run a business from there. Big difference so don’t plan to base a company out of a beach hut. You probably won’t be allowed to work from a beach hut officially or run a business from there, although many people do of course now use them as a WFT space.

· Finally, do some basic homework. Check how you will get there, research if there is a car park nearby and think about if you will be able to carry your supplies for the day there?