Welcome to your monthly property update!

Welcome to your monthly property update!




13 The Coppins,Markyate, AL3

An extended and fully refurbished three bedroom family home, situated in a sought after cul-de-sac...
 
£535,000

Click here to read 13 The Coppins,Markyate, AL3.



London Road,Markyate, AL3

Situated along London Road, Markyate, this split level maisonette is within walking distance...
 
£210,000

Click here to read London Road,Markyate, AL3.



Luton AfroFest 22 July 2023

Get ready for the Luton AfroFest 2023, the ultimate celebration of African culture, music...

Click here to read Luton AfroFest 22 July 2023.



Christmas Market at Luton Hoo Estate10 December 2023

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


Click here to read Christmas Market at Luton Hoo Estate10 December 2023.



Long Meadow, Markyate

4 bedroom detached home located within this popular Hertfordshire village, in a residential cul-de-sac location.
 
£579,950

Click here to read Long Meadow, Markyate.



Folly Lane, Caddington

It is with great pleasure we offer the freehold of this immaculately presented Four Bedroom Family home located in the...
 
£550,000

Click here to read Folly Lane, Caddington.



Holywell Road, Studham

This three bedroom home is situated overlooking the green, and is approached via a paved driveway which can cater for multiple...

£800,000

Click here to read Holywell Road, Studham.



Long Meadow, Markyate.

4 bedroom detached home located within this popular Hertfordshire village, in a residential cul-de-sac location. ...

£579,950

Click here to read Long Meadow, Markyate..



Joining the January rush? Here are some top tips

 
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.



How much your low EPC rating could be costing you?

 
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?



How does using a good agent help avoid gazumping and gazundering?

 
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



Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of the Dubliners1 Mar 2024

Direct from the West End and having sold out venues worldwide, Seven Drunken Nights-The Story of the Dubliners returns to theatres in 2024.

Click here to read Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of the Dubliners1 Mar 2024.



Mancroft Road, Woodside

We are pleased to offer the Freehold of this Three Bedroom Semi Detached Home in the popular hamlet of Woodside which...

£475,000


Click here to read Mancroft Road, Woodside.



Common Road, Kensworth

This wonderful home is approached via front pebble garden with a driveway. The home opens up to a welcoming hallway which...

£600,000


Click here to read Common Road, Kensworth.



One Night of Billy Joel - The Piano ManFri, 24 May 2024

The ultimate celebration concert to one of the most iconic and best-selling artists of all time. In this brand-new touring theatre show Robert Schmuck...

Click here to read One Night of Billy Joel - The Piano ManFri, 24 May 2024.



Friars Walk, Dunstable

An exceptional four bedroom detached family home presented to a high standard with potential...

£825,000

Click here to read Friars Walk, Dunstable.



Roman Way,Markyate

An extended and refurbished three double bedroom family home ideal for first time buyers or investors...
 £400,000

Click here to read Roman Way,Markyate.



Time for your next tenancy? Here's everything you need to consider

 
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



Sales agreed and buyer demand spring forward in time for summer

 
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.

Contact us today to see if we have the power to move you.

gov.UK*

Rightmove **



How can I calculate how much home equity I have?

 
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.

What you need to calculate the equity in your home accurately?

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:

(£195,000 equity / £375,000 home value) x100

In this case, the percentage equity is 52%.

How to calculate your LTV ?
To calculate your LTV (loan to value) as a percentage, simply divide the amount you owe by your home’s value and multiply by 100.

Using the figures above as an example:

( £180,000 mortgage debt / £ £375,000 home value) x100

In this case, the percentage LTV, is 48%.

Having a good level of equity means cheaper mortgages
Whether you are remortgaging or moving on, the lower your LTV percentage figure, the lower your mortgage rate will be. You only have to look at mortgage providers' lending rates to see that interest rates are lower for mortgages with an LTV of 60% in contrast to those with an LTV of 90%. Simply put the bigger your deposit, the cheaper your mortgage interest rate.

Equity gives you options
It’s comforting to know you have got good equity in your home. But taking out some of that equity can offer a lot of positives. If you are making home improvements or investing in another property, then you are putting it to good use and could gain significantly from it. That said, you might want to move on and having a large deposit will open the doors to some exciting properties.

Increasing your equity and the improving market
There are many ways to increase equity levels, from overpaying your mortgage to large and small home improvements. The current UK property market is improving. Inflation is at its lowest level for two years, at 3.4%.* The number of sales agreed, recorded by Rightmove, in March, was 13% higher than the same time last year.** This leaves you with a choice. You can keep gaining equity more rapidly as property values increase, thanks to increased demand, or move while the market offers good deals on better homes.
 
Book a valuation to see how much equity you have gained over the years

BBC*
Rightmove**
 



How much profit can you make if you sell in 2024?

 
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.

How much could you make?
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.

Realistic pricing opens previously closed doors
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.

Book a valuation to see how close you are to getting what you want from your home

Zoopla*
Rightmove**



 




Click here to read .



'Mind the gap' with your helpful agent

 

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**

 

 



Jimmy Carr: Laughs FunnyThursday, 3 October 2024

If you like fast-paced, edgy one-liners then get ready to be happy. Jimmy Carr is going back on tour with his brand-new show ‘Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny’.

Click here to read Jimmy Carr: Laughs FunnyThursday, 3 October 2024.



Why selling now could be your best move


As summer concludes and autumn approaches, homeowners have a final opportunity to finalise their move before the year ends. While each season brings its own set of advantages and challenges, there are compelling reasons why now might be the perfect moment to make your move. Let’s look at why now is a great time to sell your home and maximise your profits.

Sales agreed is high

All the evidence shows that the market has been very active in recent months, with Zoopla’s House Price Index showing that the number of new sales agreed increased by 8% between June 2023 and June 2024.*

This indicates a robust market, in which movers have plenty of confidence and are prepared to move quickly. When buyers are pro-active and already have the necessary finances in place, chains move faster and are less likely to break, reducing the likelihood of your move falling through.

Demand has also increased

As you may expect, with sales agreed being so high, demand also increased over the course of 12 months, with Zoopla showing an increase of 6%*. As confident buyers look to secure their dream move, sellers are able to find a buyer without having to wait for too long, speeding up the whole process.

A major benefit of high demand is that it often leads to competitive bidding, which can drive up the price of your property and increase the amount you receive. Additionally, having multiple potential buyers gives you the freedom to negotiate a completion date that suits you, allowing you to move quickly and take advantage of the busy market.

More homes are for sale

The number of homes for sale is a further indication of consumer confidence in the market, with an astonishing increase of 19%.* This gives the market a lot of variety in the types of properties available, allowing more people to find their dream home with less hassle.

With more properties on the market, you have greater scope to narrow down your search and find a property that perfectly matches your needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a particular style, size, or location, the increased inventory makes it easier to find your dream home instead of settling for something that isn’t quite right for you.

House price overvalued

Zoopla estimates an 8% overvaluation in house prices,* indicating that properties are currently selling for more than their true value. While this may initially sound like a negative, it actually makes now a great time to move, as it gives sellers the perfect opportunity to sell at a higher price and release a larger amount of equity.

Selling in an overvalued market can provide you with the capital needed to move up the property ladder to a more desirable home or a better location. However, it's crucial to move quickly, as Zoopla anticipates the 8% overvalue to vanish by the year's end as house prices return to their true value by the end of 2024.*

 

Ready to make your move? Book a valuation today

Zoopla’s House Price Index*



Selling strategies to maximise profit in a busy market


Selling your home can be a daunting task, especially in a busy market where competition is fierce. You want to take advantage of how much your home’s value has appreciated over the years and make sure you get a fair price for it.

With smart strategies and an experienced agent, your home can stand out and maximise your profits. Here are some effective selling strategies and insights on how a trusted estate agent can help you achieve your goals.

Enhance kerb appeal

First impressions are crucial, so it’s important to make sure your home’s exterior looks tidy and attractive to potential buyers. A well-maintained entrance and tidy landscaping of the front garden help to create an inviting atmosphere to get valuations and viewings off on the right foot.

Stage your home

Staging your home can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space. Removing clutter and excess furniture can make rooms appear larger and more inviting, allowing buyers to really get a sense of what they would do with the space, therefore increasing the chances of them making an offer.

Address repairs and upgrades

In order to avoid potential price disagreements, it's essential to address any necessary repairs and upgrades before putting your property on the market. Fixing leaks, damp, and interior damage is crucial to avoid discouraging potential buyers from making an offer, while installing energy-efficient appliances can help increase market value.

Understand market dynamics

To maximise profit in a busy market, it's crucial to understand the current market dynamics. With the assistance of a reputable agent, you should keep track of recent sales in your area, as well as supply and demand trends. This information can help you accurately value your property and determine the best time to sell.

Set the right price

An experienced agent with expertise in property valuation is critical to assessing your home's value and setting the right asking price. Pricing too high can deter potential buyers, while pricing too low could result in losing out on potential profit.

Effective marketing is key

In a busy market, effective marketing can make your property stand out among the competition. The right agent will know which platforms work best and will be able to create compelling listings that attract potential buyers. They will take high-quality, professional photos that best showcase your property.

Negotiate wisely

Once it’s finally time to negotiate with interested buyers, it's essential to do so wisely. This involves not just focusing on the price, but also considering the terms and conditions of the sale. Agents are skilled negotiators who can handle offers and counter-offers on your behalf, while also helping you navigate the terms of the sale to ensure you get the best possible deal.

 

Book a valuation today to discover how much you could get for your home



Estate agent vs. Property auction: which property sale suits you?

 

When you're attempting to sell your home, before you even consider placing it on the market, you need to decide what your goals are. Do you want a quick sale? Or do you want a big return on investment? There are several ways you can sell your home, and they all come with different benefits, but which property sale suits you?

Different ways to sell your property

There are two main methods for placing your property on the market: selling it through an estate agent or at auction. 

Selling it through an estate agent gives you a higher chance of achieving a sale at a well-reflected price, as selling it at auction can result in a quick and simple sale, but it may also undervalue the property. The fees are slightly higher for selling your property through an auction compared to enlisting the help of an estate agent.

What are the benefits of selling by auction?

The buyer is required to pay a 10% deposit almost immediately, and the majority of properties at auction are 'chain-free', reducing the likelihood of the sale falling through.

Auctions can be a quick selling method: your home is marketed for 3–4 weeks to gain attention, and then the auction takes place, hopefully leading to a successful sale.

What are the benefits of selling with an estate agent?

Selling your home through an estate agent comes at a lower fee and a higher asking price for your home. This allows you to achieve the maximum amount of profit on your property, as they are able to pin down buyers who are willing to pay a well-reflected, reasonable price against the market.

Selling through an estate agent broadens the buyer pool, as many buyers tend to overlook auctions due to their perception of potential fixer-uppers or problematic properties.

So, which property sale suits you?

The key takeaway is that selling your property at an auction could give you a faster sale, while estate agents tend to deliver a higher selling price for a lower fee.

If you're not concerned about the time it will take for your property to sell and you're looking for the highest possible price, an estate agent is your best option. Overall, you are more likely to achieve a higher price when you sell through an estate agent.

 

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5 reasons to search for a new rental property this autumn


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