The property market always has a good deal for everyone, and right now, this has never been truer. The news tends to paint a bleak picture; however, on closer examination, it’s clear to see that the moving market is well balanced. If you are selling, buying, or both, then you are sure to find what you are looking for at the right price.

If you are selling
The property market is still benefiting from the rapid growth in prices over the past few years. With UK house prices rising on average by 3% in the year to May 2023, there is no doubt that things have returned to a healthier state.* Steady, solid growth creates confidence and stability. This means if you are selling, you are going to get a good price for your home, and if you move, you most likely have great levels of equity.

Buyer demand
Demand from buyers is up by 14% compared to 2019 and is 42% lower than a year ago.* It’s completely unfair and unrealistic to get downhearted by comparing today’s figures with those of last year. This was an exceptional year due to the hyperinflated market caused by COVID and other factors. The figure to concentrate on is that of 2019, which was a more realistic market, and with the increase in demand this year, you will sell your home quickly.

If you are buying
The property market is not exclusively a buyer’s market, as perhaps it has been in past years. But there is definitely a lot of scope for haggling, making an offer, or getting a good deal. Whatever your preferred term for saving money is, the trick is not to overdo it. You don’t want to miss out on the home you love by making too low an offer. This is where a good estate agent can help guide you through what can be a nerve-racking time.

A friendly face
Moving home is becoming more of a seamless experience. But having the right agent helps with this process. There is no substitute for a living, breathing person who spends day in and day out dealing with virtually all that is property related. Estate agents tend to know what is going on in your local market, can answer all your burning questions, put you in touch with anyone else you may need, and often have a list of buyers ready and waiting. Buying a home is an emotional experience, and when you are making big life-changing decisions, you don’t want to deal with a robot!

Beautiful buying weather
This time of year is perfect for moving. The birds are singing in the trees; it’s warm, and the prospect of being moved in time to enjoy the summer tempts many home movers into selling and buying. As a result, prices stay buoyant, and the choice of property flourishes. It’s a busy time of year, which adds vibrancy to an already good market.

Happy homes
Many homeowners keep their homes in tip-top shape during the summer. The result is that homes become happier places. Whether you are relocating to the countryside or to a new street, this time of year lends itself well to making some everlasting memories.

Browse our properties to take a glimpse inside your future happy home.

Zoopla*

 

There is nothing better than good news, and while the UK property market is resilient with plenty of buyer demand and many home movers getting on with finding their dream homes. There is much to feel positive about thanks to lowering inflation and falling mortgage interest rates.

Falling mortgage interest rates
Mortgage interest rates are finally falling as the rate of inflation slowed to 7.9% in the 12 months to June.* This means that two and five-year fixed-interest rate deals have been reduced. According to Moneyfacts, the average two-year fixed interest rate deal fell from 6.81% to 6.79% in July.** While this is not a significant reduction, it is a good sign of things to come. With inflation now at its lowest level for more than a year. Many analysts now expect the Bank of England not to raise the base rate by quite as much due to slowing inflation.

Cost of living support
More good news is that lenders are now offering you the chance to extend the term of your mortgage or pay interest only for up to six months. This gives you a breather and will reduce your monthly outgoings. This was instigated by the government and aims to help people who are feeling the pinch of high interest rates.

First-time buyers
The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme was extended until the end of December 2023. The government-backed scheme has helped over 24,000 households get on the property ladder.*** Its aim is to help people with a 5% deposit, and it was launched in April 2021.

Aimed at first-time buyers, it’s similar to the government’s Help to Buy scheme, which ended earlier this year. So, you still have time to take advantage of it.

Increase the term of your mortgage
With mortgage providers now offering longer-term mortgage deals, in some cases up to 35-year terms, you can get on the move now as your mortgage will be more affordable. This could also be a short-term solution to buying the home you want now, as there is nothing to stop you from getting a new deal in a few years.

Have you considered porting your mortgage?
If you are currently locked into a favourable fixed interest rate deal but really want to move home, then porting your mortgage is the perfect solution. Some lenders will allow you to keep your existing mortgage to buy your new property. So, you can move home without changing your mortgage.

Talk to an expert
Your agent will put you in touch with a mortgage advisor who will be able to find a solution that works best for you. In June 2023, there were 5,000 mortgage products available on the market.****

Whether you are a first-time buyer, have a lot of equity in your home, or are downsizing and want to invest in a second property, there are many ways to go about financing a home you can cherish.

Get in touch with our dedicated team today to discuss your property aspirations

 

BBC*
Moneyfacts**
GOV.UK***
Zoopla****

 

It’s worth talking to your agent this August as the housing market is in good shape for many reasons. So, whether you are on holiday or looking for a holiday home to buy, downsizing or moving to something better, here are a few good reasons to do so.

Every home is different
The location of your home is important, as is the property type. First-time buyer-type homes, for example, have been selling very well. But with all that said, your individual home stands for a lot too. Every home has its own personality and unique features that make it desirable to a buyer. And the chances are, if your home is in any way attractive to certain buyers, they will not be alone.

Demand for your home is strong
Buyer demand is 3% higher than it was in 2019.* It’s completely unfair to compare these figures to the unsustainable levels during the pandemic. But every cloud has a silver lining, and much of that rapidly gained equity will still be in your home. This means that if there is a crash, you are still in a good place.

Your situation is unique
The number of homeowners who own their homes outright in the UK stands at 35%, while the number of homeowners with mortgages stands at 30%.** If you are one of the majority that does not have a mortgage, you may be less apprehensive about making a move now in the face of fluctuating interest rates.

The long-term view looks good
In the long term, house prices increase, and if you are concerned about the short-term fluctuations in price, they will be absorbed by the long-term increase in the value of your home.

How much time have you invested in your property?
Many homeowners in the UK who buy a home will live in it for well over ten years. So, if you bought your home before the pandemic, you have a double layer of accumulated equity to fall back on. Many people are in this situation, and this, combined with good demand, sures up the property market.

Home movers are on holiday
With so many people enjoying their holidays at this time of year, the market may lose a bit of momentum. So often, these changes in price can come about because of seasonality. Now is a good time to get out and have a good look at the home you may want to move into. There is a lot of choice, and with the market being less frantic, you may have more flexibility when it’s time to make an offer.

Conclusion
So, what does this price change mean? Not a lot, and with years of equity, you are in a good place even if there is a sudden drop in prices. But as things stand, prices are steadily declining only slightly, which means you will not get caught out in the middle of your move. After all, you want to live in the home you want; you are not playing the stock exchange.

Contact us today to see how far your money could go towards buying your property dream

 

Rightmove*
English Housing Survey**

 

Open-plan living is not for everyone, but with a touch of creativity, you can transform your living spaces into something truly amazing, making your home a delightful place to live. So, if you are unsure which to choose in your property search, here are some ideas that may open your mind.

What is open-plan living?
Open-plan living adds lots of light to your living space and creates a seamless flow between different areas of the house, such as the living room, dining area, and kitchen. This layout creates a sense of spaciousness, makes it easier to interact with others, and can be ideal for families with young children, allowing parents to keep an eye on them while cooking or working.

What is broken-plan living?
Broken-plan living aims to retain openness while also creating a level of definition and division between your living spaces. This is achieved in many ways, from partial walls to furniture arrangements. It provides a balance between open-plan and traditional separate rooms, offering both a sense of connectivity and some degree of privacy.

Do you really have to choose?
It’s all about subtly; there are so many things you can do to take advantage of open-plan living while still creating defined areas that are cosy, private, and full of differing atmospheres as you move to each area of your home.

Add a window
Retain light and create a space within your floor space by adding an internal window. You could do this for the purposes of any function you like, from a play area to a reading space near a fire. This will allow you to have privacy while still being connected to the rest of your living areas.

Create a study
Adding some steps to an elevated study so you can take in the rest of the house while working, reading, or enjoying a hobby is another way to define this space. Use glass, metal, wood, bricks, or plants to create your perfect workspace.

Half-walls
Breakfast bars are nothing unusual, and adding half walls is a blast from the past but still works. Using very small, right-angled half walls made from any material you desire and decorated in interesting colours can have a big impact. Or if you prefer curves or flowing lines, then create those to help divide the areas you feel work. It could be perfect for the kitchen or a great place to watch a movie.

Add a chimney breast
This is a clever way to create cosiness and a classical sitting-by-the-fire feeling while creating privacy. Tall, small, walk-around, or floating fires are brilliant for creating the perfect place to relax while satisfying your desire for more space.

Be creative and be yourself
There is so much you can do to make your broken-plan living space your own. Furniture, whether modern or antique, to trees, sculpture, or a walled wine rack if that’s your thing. Make it your own and experiment. Find inspiration everywhere and own it.

Do you feel inspired? Contact us today to find an amazing home

 

The UK has a rich and diverse selection of properties in equally amazing areas and regions. From castles to cottages and terraced homes to modern apartments, whatever you are looking for, you will find it.

The UK property market can be a lucrative venture for overseas investors, but it's important to go about things the right way to make the most of your investment or slice of English country or city life. Here are a few things to consider:

Get to know the UK property market
Browsing property portals and talking to good agents who know local and national property markets inside and out is a great way to get the right information so you can make a sound investment. Or if it's a home by the sea or a city apartment to use as a second home, understanding that certain regions may stretch your currency will help you achieve your goals.

Legal aspects
A good solicitor or legal firm will be able to advise you on all legal regulations and tax implications for you as an overseas investor.

Many agents can connect you with excellent solicitors, conveyancers, and mortgage advisors who can make the purchase of your property a seamless experience.

Locations with huge rental demand
From the coast to the city, a quintessential village to amazing nightlife, or buy-to-let investments in the form of townhouses or apartments, the UK market is stable and strong, and the demand for rental accommodation is huge.

Finance
The UK is the centre and a focal point for world finance; there is a solution for practically any investment opportunity for you, wherever or however you want to go about building your portfolio or living a dream lifestyle. An expert financial adviser will be able to implement the perfect strategy to suit your property goals.

Property management
If you want to let your property, a good agent can manage the entire process for you, which means everything from screening potential tenants to property maintenance will be taken care of. Wherever you are in the world, you can rest assured that your investment will be in safe hands.

Rental yield and capital growth
Investing in a UK property with good rental yields but also gaining from the increase in value of your property over time, means you can gain a great return on investment in the buy-to-let market, while also benefiting from the increase in value of your property over time.

Have a plan
Think about how much you want to invest and perhaps how long you expect to keep the property for. On the other hand, if you want to buy a castle or country retreat and live like a royal, simply enjoy yourself.

Stay informed
Keep up good communication with your agent, while the UK property market is very stable and can offer excellent long-term investment prospects. It is nonetheless a dynamically paced market, and by communicating with your agent, you will minimise the risk of missing great opportunities.

Get in touch with our expert team today to discuss all your property goals

 

 

 

Moving to a new home may seem like a daunting prospect, but it’s one of the most exciting things you can do. When you take into account the current market conditions and the wide range of options available to you, there are several reasons why now is the perfect time to make your dream move.

Property prices have stabilised
One of the main reasons that now is an excellent time to move to a new home is that property price inflation has stabilised. In the past 12 months, property prices have fallen 1.2% on average, compared to a 7.2% increase the previous year.* This demonstrates that buyer affordability has increased, allowing people to find a home they love at a reasonable price. It also gives buyers renewed confidence, as they can make more informed decisions without fear of a sudden price drop. So, while a slight decrease in prices may appear concerning at first glance, it may actually be viewed as a benefit to those looking to move to a new home.

There are plenty of properties available
Another reason why now is a great time to move is because there are a wide variety of properties available on the market. The annual average number of homes for sale is the highest it has been in six years, with 34% more homes available than there were in the previous year. As a result of this, the average estate agency branch now has 31 homes for sale, giving buyers a wide range of choices.* With more options at their disposal, buyers are able to carefully consider the price, location, size, and amenities of a property before making a decision. The increased competition among sellers could potentially result in more competitive pricing, allowing buyers to negotiate prices and find better properties within their budget.

Moving doesn’t take long
Many people are put off moving to a new home because they think it will take a long time, but this is not necessarily the case. On average, it takes just 34 days to sell a home in the UK.* This figure shows how high the demand for properties really is, which is great news for sellers, and it also means there is a reduced waiting time for buyers. The amount of time it currently takes to sell a property shows that the market is fast-paced while still remaining stable, which makes now a great time to move.

Moving is exciting!
Moving to a new home is an exciting and joyful experience that marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life. It is an opportunity to start over and break old routines in order to live a more varied lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to relocate for a new job opportunity, a change of scenery, or for any other reason, moving is a chance to re-invent yourself and create a new personalised space for you and your loved ones.

How your agent can help
An experienced estate agent's expertise makes the home-moving process much more seamless. They will guide you through the moving process and help you make an informed decision by utilising their expertise and knowledge of the local market. They will show you a wide range of available properties and tailor your search to your needs and preferences. They will also assist you in selling your home quickly for a good price, allowing you to kickstart your future in no time.

 

Are you looking to move to the home of your dreams?

Zoopla*

 

The beginning of a new year often marks the beginning of a new life, and for many, this means moving home. Because of this, January is a significant time in the property market. So, whether you’re planning on buying, selling, or both this year, here are some top tips to help you beat the New Year rush.

For sellers:

• Preparation is key
  Before placing your home on the market, make sure it’s in its best possible condition first. This might mean investing some time into making small repairs, staging, and decluttering to ready it for the eyes of potential buyers. A well-presented home will stand out on a busy market, so don’t forgo a little home improvement!
• Set a realistic asking price
  Overpricing can deter potential buyers, but under-pricing could mean you’re selling yourself short, so it’s important to strike the right balance. An expert valuation will assess all your home’s unique features, while also taking into account the local market landscape. This produces an accurate and competitive price for your home, allowing you to secure a fast and successful sale.
• Show off your home’s best features
  High-quality photos, virtual tours and expertly crafted descriptions are all important for showcasing your property online. In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is vital. Without social media reach, your home would not have half as much exposure to potential buyers. Make sure your chosen agent has a solid marketing strategy in place and knows how to utilise online platforms to cast a wide net.
• Choose the right agent
  Partnering with a reputable and experienced agent can make all the difference. Your estate agent should be well-versed in your local market and therefore have the expertise to advertise your property effectively, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the entire selling process.
• Be open and flexible
  Selling a home requires a great deal of time and commitment. While the viewing process can be disruptive to your everyday routine, being flexible and accommodating might land you a buyer quicker. Once you’ve secured your buyer, make sure their timings for completion align with your own, even if this means compromising slightly, as this will help speed up the process and avoid any confusion.

For buyers:

• Get your finances in order
  Before you can get started on the search for your dream home, you’ll need to make sure your finances are in order. The best way to get ahead of the curve is to obtain a mortgage agreement in principle. This will strengthen your position when making an offer, as sellers will view you as a reliable option.
• Know your priorities
  You should know exactly what your priorities are in terms of location, size, and any other important features. This will streamline your search and help you make informed decisions, rather than wasting any time on homes that aren’t suitable.
• Act quickly but thoughtfully
  The January rush can be competitive, and a home that you have your eye on may receive multiple offers similar to yours. While it’s important to act fast, you shouldn’t act merely on impulse. Take some time to thoroughly inspect the home and do your due diligence both online and in person before making an offer.
• Manage your expectations
  Wish lists are essential when it comes to finding your dream home, but it’s equally important to be realistic about what you can afford and what is available on the market. Be open to compromise where necessary, but don’t sacrifice any essential requirements.
• Work with an agent
  A skilled agent can guide you through the buying process, help you identify suitable homes, and negotiate on your behalf. Having someone who is experienced in the local market on your side is invaluable when it comes to finding a home in a busy market.

 

If you're ready to take the plunge into the January rush, our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.

 

Gazumping and gazundering are not always carried out intentionally to save money. Sometimes buyers and sellers experience challenges while they are between homes, and a good agent can help you overcome them.

What is gazumping?
You are elated that your offer on the home you have chosen has been accepted. A few days before completion, the person selling their property accepts an offer from another buyer. Although you may feel furious and a little heartbroken, this is perfectly legal.

How can you avoid gazumping?

• Get organised
  Don’t delay or waste any time. If you are organised, then you can move quickly. So, communicate with your agent and start the paperwork process as soon as possible.
• Sort your mortgage
  Working with a good agent helps speed things up, but if you don’t have your mortgage agreement in principle in place, delaying gives your seller more time to consider offers.
• Choose your conveyancer or solicitor wisely
  You don’t want a slow solicitor or conveyancer. Call them regularly for updates until they get the job done. Your agent could recommend a reputable firm for you.
• Negotiate the removal of the property from the market
  When making an offer as part of the deal, ask your agent if the seller is willing to remove their property from the market.
• A lock-out agreement
  You may be able to draw up a contract that will set out a given period of time in which the buyer has exclusive rights to buy the property.
• Gazump your gazumper
  If you really love the property and are determined to buy it, and your finances allow it, you could simply make a higher counter-offer; a small increase can make a big difference.

What is gazundering?
The boot is on the other foot in this case, as a buyer of a property lowers their offer, usually at the last minute. Like gazumping, this is perfectly legal until the exchange of contracts.

How can you avoid gazundering?

• Set a date for the exchange of contracts
  This is like setting deadlines for solicitors or conveyancers, the buyer, and the seller to work to. This will keep momentum going and reduce the risk of a buyer reducing their offer.
• Pricing is critical
  Understanding the property market is important. Your agent’s skill and experience in pricing accurately are crucial in valuing your property accurately.
• Valuing your home
  Good agents conduct face-to-face valuations and will find the right value for your home, and this will help prevent gazundering and gazumping in the first place.
• Avoid leaving surprises
  Hiding issues that may affect the value of your home, which will inevitably be discovered during a survey could encourage gazundering.
• Consider chain-free buyers
  There is no guarantee that this will prevent getting gazundered, but a chain-free buyer will move more quickly than a buyer in a chain.
• Be prepared
  The golden rule when moving home is to be organised. Anything that could delay your move, from paperwork, mortgages, and poor communication to choosing the wrong agent.

A good agent is crucial
An experienced agent could prevent and will certainly minimise the risk of either of these scenarios happening by matching the right buyers with the right homes. But even if these situations do arise, a discerning agent will help manage your situation so that your moving dreams do not become thwarted. Agents do not just sell properties but also represent your best interests and position in the market. They can improve your ability to buy or sell by always presenting you in the best possible light so that your home move is a success.

 

Get in touch today for a successful and smooth home move

 

In today’s financial climate, it is as important as ever to understand where your money is being spent. One of the main sources of expenditure is energy, so it is important to fully understand your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. Let’s take a closer look at EPC ratings and what you can do to make your property more energy efficient.

Understanding EPC ratings
An EPC rating is a measure of a property’s energy efficiency and can vary depending on a range of factors, including insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy usage. The main purpose of an EPC rating is to inform potential buyers or renters about a property's energy efficiency.

It is a legal requirement for all properties available to buy or rent in the United Kingdom to have an EPC rating. An EPC rating lasts for 10 years, and if your EPC is older than this, a new one must be issued before the property can be made available to buy or rent. EPC ratings range from A to G, with the latter suggesting a property’s energy efficiency is poor. Common causes of a low EPC rating include poor insulation and inadequate heating systems.

The cost of a low EPC rating
A significant impact of a low EPC rating is higher energy bills. A property with a low level of energy efficiency will waste more energy, meaning more energy is required to heat the home, therefore resulting in higher bills.

A low EPC rating can hugely affect a property’s market value because it indicates that the home is not energy efficient. Potential buyers and renters tend to favour properties with higher EPC ratings because they are a more cost-effective solution, so a poor rating could make securing a sale at a good price more difficult.

How to improve your EPC rating
An energy audit can help you identify areas to improve your property's energy efficiency. A trained professional will give your property a thorough inspection, examining factors such as insulation, heating systems, and appliances. By highlighting potential areas for improvement, an audit can provide you with valuable insights into where energy-saving upgrades can be made.

After the energy audit has highlighted how energy efficiency could be improved, you should make the necessary changes to your property. Installing energy-saving technology such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances can help reduce energy waste and utility expenses. Additionally, improving your property's insulation and fixing any air leaks will enhance thermal efficiency and lessen the need for excessive heating. These energy-saving improvements will increase the market value of your property.

Final thoughts
Having a low EPC rating can result in higher energy bills and negatively impact the market value of your property. Improving your property’s EPC rating through energy-saving upgrades and improvements can help reduce energy waste, lower utility expenses, and increase the market value of the property.

 

Are you looking to move to a more energy-efficient home?