Put a note in your diary – This year we will be hosting our first Christmas Market here at Luton Hoo Estate.

 

 

 

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.

 

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?

 

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

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When it’s time to move on, it pays to be an early bird. So, where do you start? Let’s take a look at a few tips to help you on your way.

Start your search
Finding a letting agent is a good first step. They will be able to advise you on the entire process and keep you on the right path. Finding the right property can be a swift process or may take longer than anticipated. But, when you do find the right place, you will have the option of putting down a holding deposit. This is usually one week's rent and is refundable, and will help you make your move seamless and ensure you get the property you want.

Book some viewings
Getting out and seeing potential properties is important. It’s tempting to rush this process but when you're emailed a potential property, it’s a good idea to be ready to view it. On the other hand, you may decide to clear your calendar to book multiple viewings. Some homes will surpass expectations, while others may not. Calculating potential bills can create some pleasant surprises in more energy-efficient homes, so it is worthwhile checking the energy rating of your potential property.

Moving out and moving in
Communication and planning are key to a smooth move. Setting a moving-out date for your old place and a moving-in date for your new home on the same day is important. You don’t want to leave things to chance. Pin each party down to exact dates and times, then prepare your belongings and organise removal firms or ask your friends to help. Don’t forget to update your new address for the electoral register, your bank, and the DVLA. Then, inform your energy suppliers and take meter readings of what will become your previous address, and any other parties that need to know you are moving.

Checking the inventory
You should do this whether you are moving out or moving in. Paying attention to this process will help you get your deposit returned at the end of your tenancy. Don’t be afraid to be thorough. The inventory will give details on the condition of everything, from walls and ceilings to appliances. You will want to get your entire deposit back so cleaning your old home and leaving it as you found it is important. But, it is also important to check your new property as soon as you move in.

Using an agent makes the paperwork so much easier
The beauty of using an agent is that they can take care of your deposit, reference checks, and give you a clear understanding of your tenancy agreement. You don’t need an agent to place your deposit in a deposit protection scheme; however, having someone to guide you helps make the process more straightforward. Fully managed properties benefit from 24-hour maintenance support should any issues arise. A good lettings team is always easy to get in touch with to guide you before, after, and during your tenancy to help you in any way they can.

Make your new place your own
With a good letting agent on your side, you can concentrate on enjoying your new home. Adding the little details that make a home your own makes a big difference and you may decide to decorate. If you are organised and well ahead of time you can plan your new layout and discuss any plans you have for decorating with your agent before you move in. After you have handed back the keys to your old home and got your new keys, you know because you have used an agent that the property is compliant. When all the necessary paperwork is in order, your home is decorated nicely, and you know you are supported by your agent, you can relax and make the most of your new life.

 

Are you looking for a fresh start? Contact us today

 

The spring 2024 market is running serenely and more smoothly than this time last year, thanks to a more stable market. So, if you decide to move, the question has to be asked; Could it be your easiest move ever?

Homemovers are moving the market forwards
This time of year is always busy and 2024 is not disappointing. In fact, the UK property market is moving forward at a better pace than many anticipated. It’s a case of the more, the merrier. When buyers find a new home for sale that they like, it’s another transaction to add to the tally and when their old home is bought by another buyer, this multiplier effect carries on right down the chain. This drives the entire market forward, bringing more buyers to your door and more choices of homes to your inbox.

The market has a lot going for it
You could be forgiven for missing the many opportunities that 2024 has to offer homemovers, thanks to the naysayers in the press and social media. But the facts speak for themselves: stamp duty is favourable at 0% for your first £250,000.* Mortgage rates are improving and, in a historical context, are very favourable, and equity levels are strong, yet house prices are at reasonable and affordable levels. Then there is the standard of properties themselves, which have received a lot of love and attention due to the home improvement frenzy that still continues.

Sales agreed are increasing
In March, sales agreed were 13% higher than the previous year.** Homes are appearing on the market well-prepared by their eager-to-move owners. Gleaning lots of tips and hints on preparing their homes for sale and benefiting from years of hard work and renovations, as well as paying off the mortgage as the value of their properties increases, means equity levels are good. It’s perfect moving weather for packing up and making a fresh start and this is also true when you are viewing properties.

Buyer demand is growing ever stronger
In March, buyer demand was 8% above the same time last year,** due to slowing inflation, and increasing wage levels. The UK property market is a rich and textured place. Demand is increasing on all fronts, from first-time buyers taking advantage of up to 0% stamp duty up to £425,000,* and the 5% deposit Mortgage Guarantee Scheme to cash buyers, and home movers at the higher end of the market. Each property has its own personality yet can be adapted to suit yours. From stunning eco-homes to listed properties, homes often choose their owners.

Agents are making moving easier
The old saying that moving home is one of the most stressful things you can do is losing some of its street credit. Moving does not have to be stressful, but it can be, if the agent you choose is not up to scratch. Good agents attract good vendors, nice properties, offer great listings and can recommend other property professionals that will make the entire process run smoothly. Sometimes it’s being prepared for the unexpected. If a sale falls through, a good agent’s database of buyers will quickly get your sale moving again.

gov.UK*

Rightmove **

 

With many homeowners making the most of the equity they have in their homes to move to a better property, having good levels of equity in your home gives you more options. Even if you don’t have quite as much as you would like, it does not take a long time to build up. The first step to take if you want to find out what these options are is to calculate how much equity you have in your home.

What is equity?
Equity is the amount of your home that you own. It's not difficult to calculate, simply subtract the amount of debt you owe in mortgages or loans from the market value of your property.


Get an up-to-date valuation of your home
The more accurate your valuation, the better. So, use a good local agent, their instant online valuation tool will value your home in just a minute.

Find out how much you owe on your mortgage
Get in touch with your mortgage provider to find out exactly how much you owe. If you have borrowed for home improvements, get an up-to-date balance on these loans also.

Subtract your debts from your home’s value
For example, if your home is worth £375,000 and your outstanding mortgage balance is £180,000, you have equity of £195,000 in your home.

 

How to calculate this equity as a percentage?
To calculate equity as a percentage of your home’s value, simply divide equity by your home’s value and multiply by 100.

Using the figures above as an example:


In this case, the percentage equity is 52%.

 

As the year unfolds, the property market is continuing to surpass expectations. Instead of a great crash, we find ourselves in a bit of a sweet spot, as many home-movers stand to make a healthy profit on their current properties. But the even better news is that alongside this, you can enjoy reasonable pricing, opening the doors to a nicer home. According to Zoopla, 90% of homeowners who sold up in 2023 made a 25% profit, with the average seller of a £275,000 property making £74,000.* In March 2024, average asking prices increased by 0.8% compared with the same time last year, and by 1.5% in the space of a month.** That means your deposit for your next home is sitting within your current address. Depending on your current and new home’s location, you could make substantially more than the average. We have all heard it before – ‘if house prices go up, it’s not necessarily a good thing because you have to buy another one’. The slowdown in house price increases in 2023 means that this year, homes are more affordable. So, you have great equity to use to buy your next home, an additional home, or to make home improvements. But, if you do decide to move, you can buy at reasonable prices. This puts homes that may have been previously out of reach within your grasp.

Interest rates are set at realistic levels
Yes, interest rates are a bit higher than in previous years, but this has helped balance the market, reducing competition for property to more normal levels. Super-low interest rates can lead to an overheating of the market, causing house prices to rise too rapidly. Many home-movers are becoming increasingly aware that mortgage rates are going to hover at the current, more realistic levels, which represent good value. If they fall a bit, house prices are likely to rise more rapidly.

It's not about making a profit, it’s about realising your dreams
Making gains on your property is a fantastic feeling but for most people, it’s not about the numbers and more about enjoying a better home. Making a healthy profit on your current home helps you move to a better property. Whether you are buying a two-bedroom country cottage or an eight-bedroom Victorian townhouse with a gym, study, and sauna, it's getting what you want that feels amazing.

Zoopla*
Rightmove**

 

 

As summer rapidly approaches, on the back of a more than buoyant spring, homemovers are achieving good asking prices and getting offers accepted on their new homes. House prices are firming up, instead of rapidly rising, due to sensibly paced house price inflation. This creates good buying and selling conditions; however, it’s as important as ever to price your home correctly, so you can ‘mind the gap’.

 

What does ‘mind the gap’ mean? 

‘Minding the gap’ refers to the difference between the asking price a vendor is willing to accept and the agreed selling price of a home. The good news is the gap is narrowing, with the average difference between the asking price and the agreed sale price growing smaller, with average discounts at 3.9% in March, falling from 4.5% in November 2023.* These figures are yet more proof of an improving market. In some cases, this gap may not exist and it’s also worth remembering that homes are usually priced knowing that there will be room for negotiation. 

 

The art of negotiation

When an agent places a value on your home, they will do so knowing that buyers, will more often than not, try to negotiate on price, so they will take this into account. As a seller, you want to achieve the best possible price for your home and as a buyer, you want to get a lower than asking price offer accepted. Your agent or agents, if you are selling with one and buying with another, are working in your best interests. So, when it’s time to negotiate, even though it’s completely up to you what price you want to offer or accept, listening carefully to your agent's advice is crucial. 

 

Your home and your position in the market are unique 

Your home is as unique as you are, and may achieve more than the asking price, if it gets a lot of buyer interest. This could bring about a sealed bid. Even if this does not happen, you may not have a gap between your asking price and the agreed selling price of your home. On the other hand, if a cash buyer makes an offer below your asking price, then you may decide to accept the offer so you can make your move more quickly. Setting the asking price correctly in the first place should mean you will not have to reduce your price by too much. But, that does not mean you should simply choose the agent who places the highest value on your home.

The best valuations are not always the highest 

A good agent will value your home thoroughly, which is what you want. This is because they will find the features and positives of your home, its location, and the local market, so you can achieve a good selling price. It may be tempting to choose the agent who places the highest value on your home; however, it’s not always a good idea. Overvaluing your home can lead to your sale becoming stale. Some homemovers have found that they sell with a second agent, after not selling with their first choice, because the asking price was set too high.

Know your market 

In March, the percentage of asking prices achieved in the UK stood at 96.1% and with a 9% increase in sales agreed, the market is getting stronger.** However, your local estate agent will be an expert in your local market and in advising you on how to prepare your home for sale. They will also put local market analysis and a database of buyers to good use which will help your home find the right buyer at the right price. It’s good to keep track of the market yourself, by checking out recently sold prices, and comparing the condition of other similar properties. Then you can come up with the right pricing strategy with your agent, that gets you to where you want to be, without a big gap.

 

Get in touch to get moving this summer

 

Zoopla*
hometrack**

 

 

 

If you’re in the market for a new home this summer, you’ve timed it just right. According to data from Rightmove’s house price index, this summer saw the highest number of homes for sale in eight years.* As a result, it comes as no surprise that sales increased by 13% between May 2023 and May 2024.* Additionally, because the number of homes for sale has increased at a slightly faster rate than sales agreed, there is a strong supply of available homes for sale.

Why is the market growing?

Post-pandemic rebound

The economy has recovered after taking a hit during the COVID pandemic, and as a result, we are seeing a rebound in housing market activity. Homeowners who may have put off selling their home during the pandemic now feel more confident in putting their property on the market.

Lower mortgage rates easier

The decrease in mortgage interest rates is another factor contributing to the high number of homes for sale. With interest rates falling in 2024, many potential buyers are taking advantage of favourable borrowing conditions to buy a home. This increase in demand has led to more homes being listed for sale as sellers look to capitalise on the surge in interest.

Stable prices

Despite the increase in the number of homes for sale, property prices have remained relatively stable. This has provided a sense of assurance for both buyers and sellers, creating a balanced market where transactions can occur smoothly. The stability in prices has encouraged more homeowners to make their move, knowing that they can achieve a fair value for their homes.

How does this benefit buyers?

Increased options

With the highest number of homes for sale in eight years, buyers now have a wide range of properties to choose from. This means they are more likely to find a home that fits their specific needs and preferences.

Less competition

A surplus of homes on the market means less competition among buyers. This can result in a less stressful homebuying experience, as buyers may not need to rush into making an offer out of fear of losing the property to another buyer.

Potential price reductions

In a busy market with a high level of supply, sellers may be more willing to reduce their asking prices in order to attract buyers. This presents an opportunity for buyers to receive a good deal on their dream home.

How does this benefit sellers?

Faster sales

While an increase in available properties may seem like bad news for sellers, it can actually lead to quicker sales. With more options available, motivated buyers are more likely to make a decision and move forward with a purchase.

Increased exposure easier

More homes for sale means more listings for buyers to browse through. This increased visibility can benefit sellers because it attracts a larger pool of potential buyers to their property.

Competitive pricing

By pricing properties competitively, sellers can take advantage of the abundance of homes on the market. Sellers who set a reasonable asking price may attract more interest and receive multiple offers.

How a good agent can help you

As a buyer, a good agent can help you find your dream home among the abundance of options available. They will listen to your needs and preferences, then use their expertise to narrow down the search to properties that meet your criteria. An experienced agent can also help you make an offer, secure a mortgage, and close the deal. As a seller, you can benefit from an agent’s in-depth knowledge of local market trends as they help you price your property competitively to attract the right buyers. A reputable agent will also handle all the negotiations and paperwork, taking the stress out of the selling process.

 

Book a valuation today to start your move

 

Whether you are highly experienced in renting or not, there is always something new to learn. So here are a few tips to help make your move go as smoothly as possible.

Think about what you need from your next property

It’s much easier to find what you are looking for when you know what you want. Consider the area, the type of property and any additional features you require in your new home. Start your search in good time and get familiar with what’s on the market. By doing this, you can ensure that you are looking for the most suitable property for yourself.

Talk to your agent and be ready for

Now that you have decided what it is you are looking for, talk to your agent. They will be able to send you any properties that become available. When they do find a property suitable to your needs, it's best to be ready for viewings. It’s no secret that there is high demand for rented accommodation, so you want to be able to act quickly when the right property appears.

Have your paperwork to hand

Missing out on a property you really like because you were not prepared isn’t a nice feeling. To ensure this doesn’t happen to you, check that all your paperwork is to hand well before your move. You may need things like photo ID, proof of your address and employment. If you are using a guarantor, you need to have an important conversation with whoever you choose.

Prepare to leave your old property

Leaving your old property behind can become a lengthy process. If you are moving from another rented property, you want to get your full deposit returned. Cleaning, garden maintenance, and packing your belongings are often tasks that take much longer than you think. So, it’s important to plan your time carefully, as making an early start is worthwhile. Check gas or electrical meters before you leave because you don't want to get any bills that do not belong to you.

Understand your rights and responsibilities

You may already be familiar with your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. If you’re not, here is a reminder of the main points outlined on the GOV.UK* website.

Your rights include

• It is your right to live in a property that is safe and in a good state of repair.
• Have your deposit returned at the end of the tenancy and be protected from unfair evictions.
• Your right to challenge charges that are considered excessively high.
• See the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

Your responsibilities include

• Granting your landlord access to the property to carry out repairs and inspections if they have given 24-hour notice.
• Taking good care of the property.
• Paying any bills that you have agreed to with your landlord that are your responsibility to pay. For example, energy bills or Council Tax.
• Paying for any damage or repairs that have been caused by you.

Get to know your tenancy agreement

Understanding your tenancy agreement is important. Some go into more details than your statutory rights and may include other points outlining the tenancy length, the date it began, notice periods, and so on. Your agent can guide you through any queries you have about your agreement or anything that is not outlined in it. A good rule of thumb is to check first, particularly when it comes to tasks such as decorating. You will also need to know which appliances and furnishings are provided; it could be that the property is fully or partially furnished.

Consider renting an agent-managed property

You don’t have to choose a fully managed property to benefit from deposit protection schemes or the continuous support of your agent. Many agents offer part managed properties. If you are renting through an agent, they will be a huge help. From finding your property, placing your deposit in a deposit protection scheme, arranging references, and more. If you choose a fully managed property, you will have 24/7 year-round maintenance support included.

 

Are you looking for a more agreeable tenancy agreement and a great property?

 

GOV.UK*

 

One of the most important components when selling your home is the expert agent valuation. It will inform you of your property’s value and a potential asking price you could set when placing your property on the market.

In this article, we discuss how your property is viewed and valued in a home valuation, allowing you to gain a better understanding of how an expert agent determines your home's overall value.

Is a home valuation important?

Home valuations can affect the entire selling journey of your property, so you need to ensure they are achieved correctly. If an inaccurate valuation is completed and it’s reflected in the asking price, this could delay the sale.

The first ten days of your property on the market are the most important, as it will receive the most interest during this time. So, with this in mind, it’s crucial to ensure you have an accurate, fair representation of your home’s value in the asking price.

Knowing your home's true value can provide you with a clear budget for searching for your next home, as well as allowing you to identify the current equity within your property if you were to sell.

How does an expert agent value your property?

The expert agent will use their own experience and knowledge of the local market, along with five main physical components, to determine the value of a property.

• Location
• Layout Size
• The property's condition
• Unique features

Ultimately, the interior and exterior of your home plays a huge part. If you have a beautiful, private home with incredible characteristics and uniqueness, its value will be higher than that of an average neutral-looking home that is the same size and location.

Another huge factor is location; this determines the local amenities, schools, opportunities, and jobs the property could provide, adding value.

When valuing a property, agents use the price of comparable homes that have sold in that area as their main guide. This allows agents to identify what potential buyers are willing to pay, helping to understand the local supply and demand for property.

A combination of various factors, including your personal circumstances and the current state of the surrounding property market, will determine the value of your home.

How do you decide which agent to go with?

Choosing the right agent can be a daunting process, as your home is your most valuable asset, so shop around and speak to a variety of agents. Never choose an agent based on how much they value your home, as some agents will quote you a slightly higher value than they believe simply to get your business.

It's critical to have a connection with your chosen agent, as you will spend a lot of time with them, and you want to make sure they love and respect your property as much as you do. Trust your gut, don’t rush, and ensure you like the agent you will be working with. By working with us, we can offer support from your first home valuation all the way to exchanging contracts and discovering your next dream home.

 

Book a free, in-person valuation today and allow us to support you throughout your entire selling journey

 

 

 

Moving house doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, by planning ahead and taking tactical steps, you can get started on your next chapter with a clean slate and a well-organised home.
Here are some essential tips to help you save money and streamline your move.

Book promptly

When it comes to moving, timing is crucial. One of the best ways to save money is by booking your moving services well in advance as this gives you time to compare rates. Many moving companies also offer discounts for OAPs, key workers, and armed forces, so don’t forget to check if you’re eligible.

Get the timings right

Booking early also ensures that you get the moving date and time that best fits your schedule. During peak moving seasons, such as summer and end-of-month dates, moving companies can get booked up quickly. By planning ahead, you avoid the stress and potential extra costs of trying to find available moving services at the last minute.

Empty your cupboards

Before you start packing, take a good look at your cupboards. You might be surprised by how much food and household items you've accumulated over time. Instead of letting these items go to waste or lugging them to your new home, aim to use them up.

Meal planning

Create a meal plan that focuses on using the ingredients you already have. This approach not only reduces waste but also cuts down on your food shopping bill in the weeks leading up to your move. Be creative with your recipes and try to use as many of your cupboard staples as possible.

Sell unwanted items

Moving is the perfect time to declutter and make a bit of extra cash by selling items you no longer need. This will reduce the volume of things you need to move to your next home, while saving both time and money.
Use online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Vinted to sell your unwanted items. Whether it’s furniture, clothes, or electronics, there’s likely someone out there who will be interested in what you’re selling.

Declutter

Decluttering is one of the most effective ways of cutting down your moving costs. But it isn’t easy, so tackle your decluttering one room at a time. This method makes the task more manageable and ensures that you thoroughly go through each space.
Sort items into categories: keep, sell, donate, and dispose of. Be ruthless – if you haven’t used something in the past year, it’s likely you don’t need it.

Get your packing materials for free

You can save a great deal of money by getting your boxes and bubble wrap for free. Many shops and offices offer their used packing materials at no cost to reduce waste. You might even find someone in your local community offering their used boxes, so check online first before committing to paying out for your packaging.

Curious about what your home could achieve on today’s market? Book a valuation today