Your May Newsletter

The UK saw a 1.6% increase in property prices during April

Data released by a well-known property portal shows that the average property price rose by £5,537 in April alone. Compared to figures recorded three months ago, the typical UK property is now worth a whopping £19,082 more, pushing the average house price up to £360,101. *

The current scarcity of properties continues to be the main driving force behind the steep increase in property prices.

What does this mean for you as a seller?

Despite more properties coming to the market, the demand for homes still outweighs supply. At present, sellers are successfully finding buyers twice as quickly as at the same time in 2019, and once a buyer has been found, homeowners are achieving top prices for their property.

In fact, statistics show that you could achieve up to 1.6% more for your home than one month ago.

If you do not yet have an up-to-date valuation, now is the time to get yours! Request your professional property valuation here.

*Rightmove

A handy guide to easing stress when buying a home

Securing your ideal home is a very exciting event, and potentially one of the biggest financial investments you will ever make.

As competition in the property market remains high, you may feel slightly more stressed than usual when it comes to buying your next home. However, do not be alarmed! We have four tips to help you ease the stress of your next home move.

No matter what the question is, ask it

As we have said, buying a home is a huge commitment, so you want to be sure you are happy with all the details, no matter how small they seem. If you happen to find something confusing or alarming, speak to your estate agent about the matter. They will be able to advise you or offer direction on who to contact about your query.

Discuss additional costs that could be incurred

A mortgage deposit might not be the only upfront cost you need to save for. Throughout the buying process, you may encounter fees for surveys, stamp duty (depending on your buying position), and solicitors. So, it is a wise idea to set aside a “buffer fund” to cover these costs as they arise throughout the process. By preparing your finances, you can be comfortable knowing you are ready for anything.

Take a break

House hunting can be a time-consuming and possibly emotionally draining experience. If the process begins to feel overwhelming, we advise you to take your foot off the gas and have a break for a few days. When you come back to your search, you will be refreshed and recharged, with a fresh set of eyes!

Trust your agent

Make the most of your estate agent’s services by letting them know about your requirements. This means that even when you are not actively hunting, you are not missing out on any ideal homes that may come on the market.

Are you in the process of searching for your next home? Our expert team of professional agents are here to help you every step of the way. Get in touch today.

What will the UK’s private rental sector look like ten years from now?

A recent report examined how the private rental sector might develop in the years to come. *

The findings, based on a survey of 1,376 adults in rented accommodation, offer some interesting food for thought, for landlords who might be thinking about future-proofing their investments.

One of the key insights from the report is that the private rented sector needs to adapt to an increasingly mature tenant population, with the age of tenants set to increase over the coming years. The report predicts: “The typical renter of the future will look different from today’s. We need to revisit our preconceptions about renting being the preserve of young, mobile households. Mature tenants have different needs and preferences.” *

Over a third of households in the private rented sector currently accommodate somebody aged 45 or over. The report shows that three in five tenants aged between 35 and 54, expect to be renting privately in 15 years’ time. By 2035, it is predicted that this demographic will make up at least half of rented households.

For landlords, this means considering the priorities of more mature tenants. Longer tenancy agreements and unfurnished homes are typically preferred by mature renters, who will often opt for a ground-floor property near to local transport links and basic amenities, such as shops and health services. Established tenants are also more likely to look for pet-friendly accommodation and the freedom to make basic cosmetic changes, such as redecorating.

If you are thinking of letting your property, contact us for a no-obligation valuation.

*Social Market Foundation

Tips to get your home ready for summer

As the warmer weather approaches, the days get longer and the skies are brighter, it’s the perfect time to get your home ready for the summer. Take a look below at three easy ways you can enhance the appearance of your property.

Spruce up the garden

It can be difficult to maintain your garden during the winter months, but there are no excuses once spring and summer arrive.

Simply mowing the lawn and tidying up the trees will make your garden feel much more spacious and ready for that first BBQ.

For those warm summer evenings, consider getting some solar lights or fairy lights to give your garden a cosy feel. You can also purchase some blankets and pillows to make your garden furniture look exceptionally cosy!

Give your home a fresh coat of paint

A fresh coat of paint could be just what is needed if the walls in your home are looking a bit tired.

Adding a pop of colour is the perfect way to create a summery feel. Otherwise, neutral colours such as magnolia and light grey will make your rooms look bigger and brighter.

Adding to the exterior

Adding decking or an outdoor sitting area can give your property an inviting feel for garden gatherings. Creating zones in your garden can also give the illusion of extra room and create pleasant dividers between spaces.

If you are looking for more advice on how to get your home in shape for summer, contact our team today.

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