I live in one but have never done serious renovations so it depends on what you want to do, you don't need permission for a kitchen or bathroom for example if one already exists in that room. Buying can be a bit more problematic given the age of the house. We used a partner at a solicitors but ended up complaining given i picked up several major issues… I’d make sure any previous alterations have listed building consent (LBC). im not sure what stage you're at but a good surveyor might be key to identify any issues. I’d try and get a recommendation.

if you can get hold of the details it would be good to speak to the local Historical Building Officer, mine was very helpful in saying what i could and can’t do. Repair of windows for instance including splicing in wood does not require LBC and yet on my council website i can see 2 applications for such at the moment! it may also be an idea to sign up to the Listed Building Owners Club, I'm not but i think they're a great source of information.

The first application for LBC is very painful imo but thereafter improves significantly!

Some councils are much more open to change, as preserve and enhance doesnt mean no change. Maybe look at other houses/applications in the area? I‘d also use a builder familiar with old building methods who also has great attention to detail

Sorry forgot to say Historic England is a good source of advice (just on here myself at the moment and forgot to mention it!)

https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/

Great help, thank you

I have contacted the Conservation Officer and council so will hopefully hear back from them soon. I have also contacted some Grade II listed experts for advice as per your comments

Thanks again

I lived in a grade 2 listed building. I found the conservation officer of the Local authority to be helpful in willing to visit and offer advice but their knowledge was fairly limited and I think they operate quite subjectively. I needed to have the property walls repointed. A local historical society objected to my listed building consent application because of the materials I was planning to use and advised that a lime mortar should be used. (my application was refused because of this) I was unable to source lime mortar locally or find a builder to do this for me. When I asked the historical society for their help with this they couldnt tell me where to find the product or a builder familiar with using it!
Listed building applications are free to submit but you will need to pay to have drawings done if needed for the application.
Overall I think repairs and renovations are more expensive because you may well be using non standard materials and techniques. Also, the time taken to secure listed building consent means any work may take longer to complete. Having said all of this, I wouldn't be put off if a property is listed. They are listed for a reason and I think they are very special.

Thank you for this info