BBC Homes Under The Hammer flat that shocked Tommy Walsh transformed by brothers

Homes Under The Hammer fans have seen a massive home overhaul as a property with an initial guide price of £195,000 rocketed to a staggering £1 million. The show's host, Tommy Walsh, visited the spot prior to auction - when it was in a far less pleasant state than it is today.

It had been empty for two years and was not just a mess but had numerous underlying issues. On inspection of the kitchen, Tommy said its size to be the sole positive factor.

"I know this has been empty for two years this flat but look at that cooker. That is in a shocking state. I think that is probably the worst, most unclean cooker I've ever seen."

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He said everything required being stripped down to bare brickwork. And he pointed out that just 78 years remained on the leasehold.

Despite the daunting restoration challenge, it did not dissuade two developer brothers, who bought the property for more than double its introductory price. They put in an estimated expenditure of around £150-£200,000 on rejuvenating the plot, reports the Express.

With the average cost of flats in the vicinity of the London flat hovering around £1 million, post-refurbishment the property could potentially fetch up to £900,000. The rent was placed at an approximated return of £3,000 monthly.

The flat, boasting a prime location just half a mile from Pimlico tube station and a mile from the Thames, was unrecognisable when the team returned. The owning brothers had made the kitchen and living room open plan by knocking through walls and replaced the once garish, dated and filthy yellow kitchen with sleek black marble.

They had also refreshed the bathroom with touches of black marble and extended the leasehold to a remarkable 999 years. Future buyers would be hard pressed not to be impressed with the makeover.

The property was even tipped by the original valuer for £1 million and potential rental income edged up to £4,000 per month. Despite their amazing efforts, TV viewers on social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, said it was a lot of money for a one-bedroom flat.

One user, @PippyG82, shared: "That £1m London flat is one of the most naff refurbishments I've ever seen! Vile! #HomesUnderTheHammer."

Another account holder, @demelcy opined: "Well money can't buy taste #homesunderthehammer." They added: "£4000 pcm for that 'luxury' one bed ! #homesunderthehammer."

@EmsyLamb voiced on the decor: "You wouldn't dare criticise that hideous decor, would you? ! #homesunderthehammer."

Meanwhile, @MrRockingGooner doubted the valuation, asking: "£1 million for a one bedroom flat? #homesunderthehammer #huth."

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