Today, we're heading for Dorset to take a look at a charming Grade II Listed thatched cottage in need of some tlc, but with lots of gorgeous features. This fab 3 bedroom property is ideal as a project property, needing some improvement but nothing that looks too drastic for the owner occupier to take on.

At first glance this is quite an imposing property, with a gable end elevation facing the road and boasting black beams on a white backdrop, oriel window, and all framed by that lovely thatched roof above. I personally rather like that look, the black timber on white walls, but not to worry if you find that a little over the top and too much for you, since this property only has the black beams on that gable end. The rest of the walls of the cottage are just white, meaning the best of both worlds as it suits a wider range of tastes.

The grounds look for the most part very low maintenance, being largely laid to lawn with only some trees and shrubs here and there. I even spotted a greenhouse tucked away in what appears to be a very good sized garden. This is a fantastic blank canvas for the green fingered, or a brilliant outdoor space for the kids and grandchildren to run around or play. In fact it's such a generous space that it may even be possible to expand the property, subject to consents of course.

Before we nip inside for a look around, it's worth noting that the thatch was replaced in 2010 and still looks pretty good now. Clearly this kind of roof needs some maintenance and it's great to see the exterior of this cottage has been so well kept by the seller.

Right, now for the interior, and lots more of those wonderful black beams. While the exterior kept things fairly low key on 3 sides, boasting black doors and window frames only, when you look inside it's almost as if someone turned the property inside out! There are mainly just ceiling beams to the ground floor, but when you move upstairs to the bedrooms there are even some gorgeous black wall beams on show as well.

Overall, the rooms all look fairly well maintained. There is no image available online for the bathroom though, and clearly the kitchen is rather tired and in need of updating. However, given how well cared for the property is in general, even taking on both rooms for an overhaul is still well within the scope of the less experienced owner occupiers to take on. It's very fortunate to find such a wonderful listed property of this age only needing work done in a few spots rather than throughout. Likewise this will appeal equally so to refurb and resell investors since it will provide them with quick turnover.

Last, but not least, I'd like to mention one very large and very attractive feature of this property, and is probably my favourite feature of them all... the feature fireplace in the living room. Wow, it's enormous and it's stunning, with that large bold timber lintel and very smart wood burning stove in there. It's the kind of fireplace you could almost fit the whole family into provided they ducked under that wooden beam! I love these oversized fireplaces, and this one is no exception. I love that the interior is painted darker than the surrounding walls, and that it actually looks like perhaps a range cooker might once have lived in there back in the property's earlier years. Add to that the fab little window seat area and really big looking alcove off the main living room, and I find it to be a very attractive and interesting space in which to relax or entertain.

This is a truly lovely property. There is something for all in there, and it simply exudes history and charm throughout. To me I see it as a perfect family home. What about you? This is a fantastic property, with loads going for it, and minimal work required. That garden space is equally as impressive and needs only as much work done as you're willing to do to it. Those grounds are incredibly good sized and flexible. I'll not be surprised in the slightest if there are a few interested parties battling it out for this one on auction day!

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