A HOUSE that was damaged by a fire caused by a suspected arsonist has been sold at auction for £20,000 more than its guide price.

The two-bedroom end-of-terrace property at 12-14 Slater Street went under the hammer for £61,000 having been put up for £39,000.

This is despite it suffering damage towards the end of 2015 when an open garage at the side of the home caught fire.

It was sold at SDL Auctions North West's first auction of the year at the AJ Bell Stadium, which took place on Wednesday, February 28.

Andy Thompson, senior valuer at SDL Auctions North West, said: "This was a lot with opportunities.

"It was formerly two properties and was converted into one, so offers a considerable amount of space.

"Despite some fire damage, it was clearly identified as a project with potential."

When the fire occurred, a 38-year-old woman, who was reportedly sleeping rough in the garage, was arrested at the time on suspicion of arson.

The woman, who was alleged to have started the fire, managed to get herself out of the garage and she was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation before she was arrested.

The house adjoining the garage suffered damage to a door and minor damage to a kitchen.

The building was one of 54 lots in the catalogue that went up for sale at the auction.

These included an apartment in Handforth that sold for £166,500 and a property in Manchester that sold for £132,500.

Mr Thompson added: “We are always pleased to talk to individuals with potential lots for our future auctions.

"With our experience, we can give you an independent appraisal and guide you through the process of buying and selling, whether you are a first time buyer or seller, or an old hand, well-experienced in the auction room.

“Whether it is a site with development potential, a dilapidated home or a house of multiple occupation being offered as an investment opportunity, all types of property can be sold by auction.

“There are many advantages with selling by auction. It is quick and secure, the whole process can take as little as eight weeks and when the hammer falls your property is sold, with completion taking place 28 days later.

“Our auctions regularly attract private buyers, investors, developers and property dealers, all interested in buying.

“In many instances, selling at auction could prove the best way to sell your property.”

SDL Auctions’ first 2018 auctions in Manchester and Chester on consecutive days raised a total of £2.5million.

The firm's next auction will be held at the AJ Bell Stadium on Monday, March 26.

Anyone looking to sell under the hammer can call the team on 0161 774 7333.