There is always a wonderful reason to move. Property is beautiful, from the details of a feature fireplace to a view of the sunset over your garden. The right home is an investment and a place to make memories and profound emotional connections. You may have your heart set on the perfect kitchen or an idyllic outdoor space, but the numbers need to be right.

Lower asking price
Asking prices have decreased in recent months, however this should not be viewed as a bad thing. The rapid acceleration in the value of property has been hasty, and world events have somewhat exaggerated things. The fact that the property market is readjusting to a more normal market is healthy, especially considering the steady gradual release of value. It is important to remember that borrowing less overall to buy your home is a good thing, as it reduces other associated costs.

Earnings
Many people are buying together, whether with a partner or a group of friends. This is a quick route to buying your home and gathering a deposit. Nobody can deny that the cost of living has increased, but the good news is that wages are rising. According to the Office for National Statistics, growth in regular pay (excluding bonuses) was 7.2% from February to April 2023.*

Equity
How long have you lived in your home? It’s more likely the longer that time is, the more equity you’ll have. That equity has accelerated rapidly in recent years. There is probably quite a big cushion to fall back on if prices fall a bit more. First-time buyers' homes are in good demand, meaning even if you bought within the last few years, you will have gained a lot of equity, giving you the chance to move into something bigger.

Communicate with your agent
There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to property. All homes are unique, as are the different areas in your region. Your needs as a home mover are different from your neighbour's. And today, agents have the means to connect you with buyers and sellers like never before. State-of-the-art tech, in the form of databases and marketing tools, alongside good old-fashioned experience and local market knowledge make it all the more important to get in touch with a reputable estate agent. Ultimately, this means that your estate agent is pivotal in finding a way for you to get the keys to the home you want.

Find your dream property, get in touch to make it a reality

Office for National Statistics*
Moneyfacts*

 

 

As of July 2023, an average of 187 prospective tenants registered with agents, compared to just 127 in July 2022.* This surge in demand is not limited to any particular sector. Whether you're considering apartments, terraces, or converting existing properties into flats, now is as good a time as ever to invest. It’s no secret that the industry is going through an overhaul, and things are not as simple as they use to be. But if you stop to take a look around, there are so many opportunities right now that promise a profitable future for landlords.

Compact living spaces
Investing in compact living spaces is a smart move in today's market. Apartments and smaller homes are experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by young professionals and couples seeking convenient urban living. The same can be said of places in more rural locations. The appeal of these spaces is better energy efficiency, lower bills, affordability, easy maintenance, and a great choice of locations.

Energy-efficient family homes
Creating energy-efficient family homes is a win-win scenario for landlords. Not only will you contribute to a sustainable future, but you'll also attract a larger pool of tenants. In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, energy-efficient properties are in higher demand than ever before. Tenants are willing to pay a premium for homes that offer lower utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint. This demand translates into higher rental income, ensuring that your investment covers its costs and generates substantial returns.

Student accommodation
The student accommodation sector is experiencing a remarkable surge in demand and growth rates. As a result, student rents have surged by an astounding 30% compared to 2022.** This sector's resilience is driven by the constant influx of students seeking quality housing near educational institutions. By investing in student accommodation, you tap into a market that promises both steady rental income and long-term growth potential.

Holiday lets
Holiday lets are another lucrative avenue for landlords in the UK. Whether you choose a cosy city apartment or a spacious rural retreat, there's immense potential to earn substantial returns. The flexibility of holiday lets allows you to occasionally enjoy your property while reaping the financial benefits the rest of the year. The allure of staycations has further boosted the demand for holiday rentals, making it a prime investment opportunity.

The right guidance is the key to success
The landscape for landlords is changing. It’s never been more imperative to conduct your buy-to-let business by the book. The right guidance in sourcing and managing your property, combined with taking care of tenants, is a full-time job. Managed letting services are becoming essential. Keeping you from falling down any legal pitfalls, managing your property’s maintenance, referencing tenants, and so much more. Conditions and rights for landlords are set to improve with new legislation, such as the Renters Reform Bill. Making such legislation advantageous for landlords with the guidance of a good agent involves compliance for a better future for tenants and landlords. The right letting agent will keep you one step ahead, so your buy-to-let investment thrives.

Contact us today to find your next property investment opportunity

Property mark*
Natwest**

 

 

The best time to move is not always down to the seasons or market conditions, it’s down to you. The truth is, there are good reasons to move at any time of the year. Autumn brings about that lovely feeling of vibrancy and freshness with a multitude of colours, which can make you crave the change a new home brings. Winter is also on the horizon, and let's be honest, the countdown to Christmas has started. As the days grow shorter and darker, festivities like Bonfire Night, and Christmas focus our thoughts on cosy nights by the fire. But your moving story is as much about you as it is about your home.

Your home’s story is intrinsic to you
You may have improved your home over the years. Perhaps you have concentrated on making it more energy efficient. Have you developed a really good outdoor space or bought in an up-and-coming area? Even if you have purchased a modest property in the past five years, it will have increased in value considerably. Maybe you have outgrown your home or found that it’s too big for what you need today.

Invest in time
Today, many people are obsessed with the value of their homes, however time is also important. When you buy, you will no doubt keep your home for many years, and if you have owned your current home for a while, then you potentially have good equity. This may decrease in the short term but will increase in the long term. Using the services of a skilled agent who can judge the market will ensure you pay the right price for your property.

Delaying your purchase could cost you
It’s tempting to put off the decision to buy if you are concerned about property prices, but the reality is that rising mortgage costs could cancel out your savings while waiting for property prices to fall. Add to this, the long-term increase in the value of your new home as property prices begin to increase again, and you end up costing yourself even more money.

The property market
The UK property market is very resilient. Prices and interest rates change, but the long-term outlook is still one that spells out housing shortages which helps keep the market stabilised. Your home is in demand because of this shortage. However, there is still a varied and ever-fascinating selection of properties on the market. From grand ecological, energy-efficient designs, to humble terraced properties.

The right home
The perfect location, the sunrise in the morning, the fire at Christmas, the blooming garden in the spring or perhaps a house with greater energy efficiency. Whatever the reasons are for falling for a property, there are so many advantages to living in the right home. From finding more space to work from home, to simply reaping the rewards of a better sense of well-being; the right home can be financially advantageous.

 

Book a valuation to explore your property options

 

 

You know the feeling. It happens during so many important events in life. You go on a viewing, it’s such an interesting and exciting process that you become a little flustered. You walk from room to room, loving what you see. You are enamoured and excited, so you forget to ask an important question. While you can always contact your agent at any time to gain more information, it's important to remember that your agent is an invaluable partner in your moving journey. So here are a few questions that you might not think to ask to add to your list.

If you are selling

 

Contact us today to see how we can begin your successful moving story

 

 

With a greater sense of optimism in the air, lowering mortgage rates, and a compelling choice of properties to entice you, the UK property market is feeling good. A new year always brings new trends, fresh ways of buying, interesting properties, and a fresh influx of homemovers. Now is a good time to open your mind to the endless possibilities.

Mortgage rates are falling below 4%
With sub 4% mortgage rates making a welcome appearance on the mortgage market, homemovers are excited and relieved. For many years, mortgage rates were unrealistically low, and this has created the perception that today’s rates are higher than they actually are. Mortgage rates will not in the foreseeable future return to super-low levels, and those who know this are making their moves and getting increasingly better deals. After all, you can always change your mortgage deal in a couple of years.

Homes finding new owners
More buyers means more sellers, and all bring their properties to the market at some point, for you to buy, or for them to buy yours. This hive of activity keeps the market buoyant at this time of year. Spring is just around the corner, and this is often one of the best times of the year to move thanks to longer days, and warming weather to enjoy viewings. If you decide to join the party, your agent’s database will be teeming with homemovers and may already contain the right buyer for your home.

New trends
Create your perfect work-from-home space by selling up and moving to your dream location. Making the most of your home’s equity by purchasing a buy-to-let investment or holiday let is still a very appealing option. First-time buyers can spend up to £600,000 with a 5% deposit thanks to the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, which has been extended until June 2025. Sustainability, energy efficiency, compact living, and smart technology are also growing in popularity.

A settling market
If you are a buyer, better mortgage deals and solid pricing that represent good value put you in a good position to move, thanks to a slowdown in house price inflation in 2023. You will get a good price for your home if you are selling, and you will enjoy good value if you are buying. These are ideal conditions for finding a great property and settling down. When the property market feels calm, it makes for a more pleasant moving experience. With good guidance from an experienced agent, moving home does not have to be a stressful experience.

Inspirational properties
Sustainability and energy efficiency are blended with fun and functionality, defining your spaces but allowing them to feel connected. The growth of smart homes and smart energy, fitted with smart appliances, promises to make your life easier. Features such as glass roofs and glass-door walls, with modern, clean designs leading to homely outdoor garden spaces, even in compact homes, make for inspirational viewings. Architectural styles from every era offer space with style and a sense of timelessness with modernity in magical settings.

 

 

Void periods are spells of time when a rental property is left unoccupied and is therefore not generating income. Naturally, void periods are something you want to avoid as a landlord, and while some instances are unpreventable, there are a few ways you can protect yourself against the impact of lengthy void periods.

Set a competitive rent

Your pricing is one of the most critical factors in attracting and maintaining tenants. Make sure to research the local market to get a better understanding of the going rates for properties similar to yours, as this will help you set a competitive rent. Offering a fair rental price that aligns with the local market can make your property more appealing and reduce the time it sits empty between tenancies. 

Maintain the property

A well-maintained property not only attracts tenants but also encourages them to stay longer. A letting agent can take care of regular property inspections and on-call maintenance to ensure everything is in good working order. Addressing maintenance issues promptly can prevent them from becoming more significant problems that might deter prospective tenants or lead to longer void periods due to extensive repairs.

Know your demographic

When your property is vacant, you’ll need to act fast to find your next tenant. It’s important to know what kind of tenant is best suited to your rental property, as you’ll need to be able to highlight exactly what you’re looking for. This will help your letting agent narrow down the search and find new tenants more efficiently. Your agent can also filter out anyone who does not meet your criteria, reducing the amount of time wasted on failed applications.

HMOs

Choosing to invest in a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) could make sense if you need to rely on your rental income to pay off the property’s mortgage. Void periods can be more manageable with HMOs, as letting out your property by the room means if one renter leaves, you still have others in place.

Effective marketing and advertising

When a tenancy ends, effective marketing is crucial to secure your next tenant. Our letting agents use multiple channels such as online property portals, social media, and local advertising to reach potential tenants. We also offer high-quality photos and detailed descriptions highlighting the property's key features to generate more interest and reduce the time it takes to find new tenants when a property becomes vacant.

Build positive relationships with tenants

Happy tenants are more likely to stay put, so make sure to foster positive relationships by maintaining an open line of communication and addressing maintenance issues promptly. This is no easy task, especially if you have your own home and job to attend to. A fully managed letting service can ensure that your tenants are well-looked-after, which can reduce void periods without interrupting your schedule.

 

Need help managing your investment? Contact our dedicated lettings

team today

As the leaves turn brown and the autumn air settles in, many people find themselves looking for a fresh start in a new home. Whether you're seeking a change of scenery, more space, or better amenities, autumn is an ideal time to search for a new rental property. Let’s look at five reasons why it’s the perfect season to find your next home.

Less competition

Autumn can be a less competitive time to find a rental property compared to the peak summer season. Many families prefer to move during the summer to align with the school calendar so, by autumn, there may be fewer renters searching for properties.

Because of this, landlords may be more willing to negotiate on tenancy agreement terms as they look to fill vacant properties. Additionally, there could be a wider selection of available properties than there would be during the summer rush.

Competitive rental prices

After the busy summer season ends, a decrease in rental demand can lead to an increase in the number of available properties. With an increased chance of vacancy periods, landlords are often more open to negotiations and may offer discounted rental rates. This means you can potentially find a great deal on your new rental property and save money in the process.

New beginnings

Autumn symbolises change and new beginnings, making it the perfect time to make a fresh start. Whether you’re starting a new job, moving to a new location, or simply seeking a change of scenery, autumn is the ideal time to embrace new opportunities and make positive changes in your life.

Updated amenities

Many landlords choose to renovate their rental properties in time for winter, making necessary updates and improvements to enhance comfort and safety. These updates may include servicing heating systems, improving insulation, making sure windows and doors are sealed, and ensuring all plumbing is prepared for a drop in temperatures.

Settled in time for Christmas

Finding a new rental property in autumn offers the perfect opportunity to settle into your new home just in time for the festive season. As well as giving yourself time to unpack and decorate your new home, moving in autumn gives you the chance to create a cosy and inviting space for Christmas family gatherings.

How an agent can help

A reputable letting agent can use their expertise to help you make your ideal move this autumn. Their in-depth knowledge of the local rental market allows them to understand seasonal changes and track levels of demand and supply to advise you on the best course of action.

An agent will help you schedule viewings of any properties that interest you before negotiating favourable tenancy agreement terms on your behalf. They will also be available to you throughout the duration of your tenancy for any assistance you may need.

 

Looking for a new home this autumn? Contact us today

 

Ensuring the full return of your deposit is one of your most important considerations as a tenant. With care, preparation, and a proactive approach, you can significantly increase your chances of reclaiming the full amount. Let’s take a look at everything you can do to maximise your chances of receiving your full deposit back at the end of your tenancy.

How are deposits protected?

Deposits are protected under the Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) scheme, a legal requirement for landlords and letting agents. This scheme applies to assured shorthold tenancies and ensures that tenants' deposits are safeguarded throughout their tenancy. 

Within 30 days of receiving the deposit, landlords must place it in one of these schemes and provide the tenant with all the necessary information, including details about the scheme used, how the deposit is protected, and the procedure for reclaiming it at the end of the tenancy.

Take photos of the property

One of the first things you should do after moving into a new property is take photos of every room. It’s particularly crucial to photograph any damage to walls, furniture, flooring, and white goods that was already present before you moved in.

It’s a good idea to send these photos to your landlord or agent to confirm that all parties are satisfied for them to be used as a record of the property’s condition.

When moving out at the end of your tenancy, you should also take photos so that you can prove the state you left the property in if any disputes arise.

Check the tenancy agreement

If you’ve rented before, you’re probably tired of hearing about the importance of thoroughly reading your tenancy agreement. However, making sure you’re familiar with every section of the agreement is crucial to making sure you don’t accidentally do anything that breaks the tenancy's terms.

Just because you read the agreement in your previous tenancy doesn’t mean you don’t need to read the new one. Each agreement can differ between landlords, agents, and properties. An agreement should list all of your responsibilities and what you have to do before vacating the property in order to receive your full deposit back.

Ask for the inventory

Everything that was already in the property at the start of your tenancy should be listed in the inventory. On the first day of tenancy, the landlord or agent must prepare the inventory so everyone can agree on the property's condition.

If you disagree with the deposit amount you receive after the tenancy, the inventory is the best piece of evidence you can provide when disputing it.

Reduce the risk of damp

Reducing the risk of damp is crucial for maintaining the property's condition and ensuring the full return of your deposit. Damp can cause significant damage to walls, ceilings, and floors, leading to costly repairs for the landlord.

To prevent damp, ensure that the property is well-ventilated by regularly opening windows and using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Keeping humidity levels low and taking preventative measures can help maintain the property in good condition, making it more likely that you will receive your full deposit back.

Maintain your garden

Maintaining your garden is another important aspect of fulfilling your tenancy obligations and securing your full deposit. Overgrown lawns, untrimmed hedges, and damage to garden furnishings can negatively impact from the property's appearance and require professional services to fix.

By keeping the garden in the same condition as when you moved in, you demonstrate respect for the property and avoid any potential deductions from your deposit for garden-related issues.

Report problems when they arise

Reporting problems when they arise is essential for preventing minor issues from escalating into significant, costly repairs. If you notice any issues, such as leaks, broken appliances, or structural damage, inform your landlord immediately.

This proactive approach not only helps maintain the property's condition but also shows your responsibility as a tenant. By preventing minor issues from becoming major problems, you reduce the risk of deposit deductions for damages that occurred during your tenancy.

Tidy and clean before you leave

Most tenancy agreements stipulate that the property must be left in a clean and tidy condition, comparable to its state at the start of the tenancy. Conduct a thorough cleaning of all rooms, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, while paying particular attention to overlooked areas like behind appliances, inside cupboards, and under furniture.

Leaving the property in good condition allows you to fulfil your contractual obligations, significantly increasing the likelihood of receiving your full deposit back.

What if you disagree with the amount you get back?

If you disagree with the amount of deposit you get back after a tenancy, you can ask your landlord or letting agent for a detailed breakdown of the deductions made from your deposit. This should include specific reasons for each deduction and any relevant invoices or receipts for repairs or cleaning services.

 

Contact us today to find out about our exceptional rental services

September always seems to give us sunny-summer-like days, but the good news is that the UK property market is also faring well. During the summer, sales agreed were 15% higher than the same time last year.* We take a look at why the sun is continuing to shine on the UK property market this September, and what that means for your next move. 

Good market conditions 

Now that the labour government has settled in, the market has stabilised, and buyer and seller confidence is going from strength to strength. Many buyers who wanted to wait until after the election to place their homes on the market are now moving and accepting healthy offers and the positive effects of this can be seen down the chain. This means there are more homes for you to choose from and more buyers are in a strong position to buy your home. 

A more settled mortgage market 

Increasingly competitive mortgage rates becoming available and an acceptance of the ‘new normal’ means this month is a new beginning in more ways than one. Making a fresh start is now more compelling as home buyers accept that the ten-year period of ultra-low mortgage rates is not set to return. Current increasingly competitive mortgage interest rates today represent value for money by historical standards, and this helps stabilise the market, keeps house prices from spiralling out of control, and stops home-movers from delaying their move. 

Great weather for moving 

September is a good month to move. You still have plenty of light and good weather for viewing, preparing your home ‘For Sale’ and for moving day. With a bit of luck, you could be on the move in time to cosy up for winter. You may also benefit from eager home-movers who want to sell in the summer months and want to get on the move before winter arrives. With many people choosing spring as their time to move, you might find your solicitor and removals company a little less busy at this time of year. 

Christmas is on the horizon

Many home-movers will want to get into their new homes in time for Christmas and this can stir up interest in your home if you are thinking of selling. Making a fresh start in September with the beginning of a new term also opens the door to making a fresh start in time for the new year. And now that the holidays are over for many, it’s back to the business of moving. Christmas comes around quickly and with the property market performing well, so could your home’s sale. So, the prospect of being in the home you want in time for the festivities is an increasingly realistic goal.  

The power of home-happiness 

With such a compelling choice of amazing properties on the market and the happiness they bring with them, it’s little wonder so many people are getting on the move. Demand for good properties is high all year-round, and the profound and positive effects of finding the right property are almost immeasurable. More rooms, exquisite outdoor spaces, locations to love, and the features and magical feelings great homes give you should never be underestimated. Market conditions sometimes fluctuate over the years but memories last for ever and more and more people are embracing this sentiment. 

 

Are you warming to the idea of moving? Contact us to see how we can help

Rightmove*