THE house you choose to buy says a lot about your aspirations...

And for those looking for something with character - and possibly even a touch of grandeur - Cumbria's property market currently offers some interesting possibilities at prices which are not beyond the dreams of those with a comfortable income.

Provided you are up for the challenge of renovation, you could find yourself owning a real gem. Among the more eye-catching properties on offer are:

* A unique two-bedroom 'lodge' style house in Bank Road, Workington, with extensive gardens. With its atmospheric setting and almost gothic exterior, this property has huge potential and character. It is being marketed by First Choice Move with a guide price of £219,950.

* For those not opposed with a city life, a four-bedroom semi in Lismore Place, Carlisle, is also a real opportunity. With a guide price of £275,000, this imposing house is being marketed by Cumbrian Properties and is due to be auctioned on Thursday, July 27. The garden has the potential to be stunning; and while near to the city centre, this house is only a short walk from Rickerby Park.

* If you're after a country life and a home with charm you could do a lot worse than the two-bedroom detached cottage in South View, Morland, near Penrith. Marketed by Edwin Thompson, with a £250,000 guide price, this house clearly needs some TLC but would make a fantastic country bolthole. The garden is the perfect complement to the rural setting.