First impressions are everything and flats with their own front door are more prized than those without, particularly in London.

A private front door makes a property feel more like a house, but without losing valuable square footage to stairs or landings. If we were to have two identical flats – one with a communal entrance and the other with its own front door – the latter would certainly generate stronger interest and likely sell for up to 10 per cent more. Indeed, many buyers list a private front door or entrance as an essential.

Some apartment conversions are fortunate enough to retain the grand front door to the original building, and potential buyers are usually pleasantly surprised to have direct access through such an elegant entrance without having to pass through communal areas.

Having your own front door also eliminates the need to share a hallway with neighbours, and increases both security and privacy. There can be a value trade off as these flats are often on the lower ground floors. However, this might well be mitigated by the benefit of having a garden and a lower service charge.