Your April Newsletter

Five key questions every homebuyer should ask

From assessing your finances to booking a viewing, you have a lot to think about when searching for your dream home. By asking a few key questions, you can be confident you’ve chosen the right property.

Here are five to start with:

1. Has the property been on the market for a long time?

It’s normal for a home to take a few months to sell. After that, you may need to dig a little deeper to discover why the property has been on the market a little longer than usual.

By pressing for more information, you could save yourself any worries in the long run.

2. Have there been any significant alterations?

It’s always a good idea to check what renovations or extensions have taken place over the years. Of course, we recommend having any property professionally surveyed before signing on the dotted line.

3. What is staying with the property?

When you set your heart on a home, it’s easy to get caught up in the big picture and forget about the finer details. Do you know what the current owners are leaving behind? How will this affect your moving arrangements and budget? Make sure any remaining items are listed in the contract to avoid any potential delays further down the line.

4. What are the likely running costs?

Pay close attention to hard-to-control factors such as the council tax band. Also, check the average utility costs in the area and think about how you’ll heat your home. Location can be a consideration, especially if you're moving to a more rural area. In this case, factoring in any increased travel costs is a good idea.

5. Are there any issues with the neighbours?

The seller must give a true account of any disputes, from disagreements over boundary lines, to formal noise complaints. While their answer may not stop you from buying, forewarned is forearmed.

Ready to start the search for a new home? We have some fantastic properties available to browse here.

If you are struggling to find what you are searching for, contact us with your requirements and we will suggest the best matches for you.

Another new record for asking prices has been set

According to a popular property portal, the average UK property price has now exceeded £350,000. Asking prices across the nation saw a hike of £5,760 in March, marking the largest increase at this time of year since 2004. *

Properties with four bedrooms or more, saw the biggest price increase in March, with values soaring by £28,619 (3.8%). In fact, if you’re considering selling your three or four-bedroom home, you could find a buyer within the first two weeks of marketing. *

As a seller, you may be wondering why prices keep rising. It’s simple: demand remains incredibly high. This spring is said to be the best-ever spring to sell your home, and it’s true. The imbalance between supply and demand is the biggest that has ever been measured at this time of year, meaning you’re likely to secure a sale quickly, for an incredible price.

Are you ready to secure a sale this spring? We’re ready to help. Get in touch with us to book a property valuation today.

*Rightmove

EPC changes offer good opportunities for landlords

In a bid to combat climate change and reduce pressure on strained energy supplies, the government has recently announced new proposals on EPC ratings. The changes will require landlords to increase the energy efficiency of their properties to a C or above.

Improvements must be made by 2025 for new tenancies, or 2028 for existing tenancies. As a recent survey showed, 68% of landlords currently own rentals with D or below EPC ratings, which means most will need to act soon to avoid problems down the line.*

While increasing the energy efficiency of your properties can be a costly exercise, it’s also an opportunity to raise the value of your rentals and reduce bills for tenants. This, in turn, will make your lets more attractive to tenants, especially at a time of rising energy prices.

In addition, landlords looking to expand their portfolios may consider buying less efficient homes to upgrade the EPC rating and turn over a profit. If you own a property rated C or above, now is a great time to think about letting it.

However you intend to respond to the upcoming changes, we’re happy to discuss your options going forward.

Contact our team to discuss this further, or to arrange a lettings valuation.

*Landbay

Easy ways to upcycle garden furniture

With daffodils and spring flowers in full bloom and warmer weather here, the first garden party of the season is just around the corner. However, your garden furniture may still be suffering the effects of winter.

While replacing old pieces with a spending spree at your favourite garden centre may be tempting, there are easier and cheaper ways to deal with tired furniture! For example, black and deep grey paintwork can transform dull fences, planters, and pots into striking backdrops for your greenery. A simple solution that can make a huge difference.

Is rust consuming metal everywhere you look? Available in various colours, anti-corrosion spray will help revitalise your furniture. Alternatively, a solution of white vinegar can work wonders. Just leave it on for about an hour and thoroughly wipe it down afterwards.

Adding texture with fabrics and soft furnishings can also enhance even the most worn-out pieces. Think tablecloths, cushions, and throws.

If something can’t pass for shabby-chic anymore, consider repurposing it entirely, perhaps by turning an old table into a wildlife house, or a swing seat into a frame for climbing plants.

If you’re hoping to attract serious offers this spring, sprucing up your garden is a great way to help viewers picture themselves enjoying those long, warm evenings ahead.

We are always happy to advise you about ways to improve your chances of a sale.