• Lifetime Individual Savings Account (LISA) – You can use a LISA to buy your first home or save for later life. You must be aged between 18 and 39 to open a LISA. You can put away up to £4,000 each year and the government will add a 25% bonus to your savings. However, there is a penalty for taking money out of a LISA if you are not putting it towards a deposit, or withdrawing after age 60.
• Equity Loan – This scheme is only available to first-time buyers in England who want to buy a ‘new-build’ house within the relevant regional price cap. You can borrow up to 20% (40% in London) of the purchase as an interest-free equity loan. You do not pay interest on the equity loan for the first five years, but you will start to pay interest in year six. The equity loan payments are interest only, so you do not reduce the amount you owe.
• Shared ownership – Shared ownership offers first-time buyers the option to buy a share of the home from the landlord, who is usually the council or housing association, and pay a reduced rent on the remaining share. Later, you can choose to buy a bigger share in the property, and ‘staircase’ up to 100% of its value.

• Survey costs
• Initial furnishing and decorating costs
• Buildings insurance
• Solicitor or conveyancer fees
• Removal and moving costs
• Stamp Duty

• Shared accommodation with a landlord or landlord’s family
• Long leases
• Student halls of residence
• Hotels and refuges
• Care homes
• Hospitals and hospices
• Low-cost ownership homes
• Other accommodation relating to health care provision

• Valuation of your property based on expertise and extensive research.
• Drawing up floor plans.
• Accumulating interest from their own list of appropriate buyers.
• Marketing on property portals (such as Zoopla and Rightmove) and other traditional advertisement outlets.
• Organising viewings.
• Negotiating a suitable sales price.
• Professional photographs of your home.
• Installing a For Sale sign.
• An enticing written description of your property.

Research by retail and commercial bank, Shawbrook, suggests that three-quarters of private sector landlords have taken steps to help tenants cope, as the cost-of-living rises.

They also found that one in four landlords have frozen rental prices for the time being, while 22% have offered tenants a payment holiday.

Meanwhile, one in five landlords have lowered rents, and 19% have offered to include the cost of bills in the monthly payments.

To help combat soaring energy prices, 26% of landlords were found to be taking steps to make their properties more energy efficient, such as improving insulation, installing double glazing and investing in a new boiler.

Emma Cox, managing director of real estate finance at Shawbrook, commented: “In order to have a fair and sustainable rental market, it’s vital that landlords are open to supporting their tenants through hard times.

"Reducing rents or offering payment holidays will help tenants during the worst of the crisis and get them back on their feet.”

Why is this happening?

With inflation rising in line with the cost of energy, tenants across the UK are grappling with mounting bills that they were not initially prepared for.

The Shawbrook study found that 85% of people living in the private rented sector, had already made lifestyle changes to cope with the higher cost of living.

Many landlords will be feeling the pressures of rising inflation themselves, so they can recognise the challenges their tenants are facing.

What does this mean for landlords?

Ultimately, the decision to offer a rent freeze or payment holiday lies completely with the landlord, and will depend on their personal circumstances.

The influx of those who have chosen this route will certainly have a knock-on effect for an already dwindling supply of rental stock, as tenants who have been offered help over a challenging period aren’t likely to pack up and leave any time soon.

This is certain to ramp up demand, with a backlog of potential renters waiting for a property to become available.

The consultation also included measures to protect renters from unfair rent increases and plans to ban ‘no fault’ evictions in the Renters Reform Bill, which will be introduced during the current parliamentary session.

Are you looking for advice on letting your property? We’re here to help. Get in touch with our experts today.

Houses aren’t the only things seeing a rise in prices, as every area of the UK recorded a growth in rent prices during September. Greater London alone saw a 2.5% increase, which helped to drive the average rent in the UK to £1,159 per calendar month. This is a notable 1.4% rise from the previous month.

Data from lettings insurance company, HomeLet, reveals that average rents across the UK (Excluding London) now stand at £971 PCM, a jump from 1% between August and September. Their Rental Index also found that the North-East saw the second largest monthly variance, with rents rising by 2.4% between August to September, boosting the average rent up to £609 PCM.

These figures are from data on achieved rents for just-agreed tenancies arranged in the most recent period – this provides a detailed insight into the lettings market, its current trends and consumer behaviour across the UK.

Why are rents rising?

UK rental growth has long been driven by mounting rental demand, and increasingly limited supply. This creates a cycle, whereby rising rents mean tenants are staying put, rather than moving to a property where they could end up paying more rent - contributing to the lack of supply which drove rents up in the first place.

Zoopla found that tenants are staying in rental properties for an extra five months in 2022, compared to five years prior.

Rightmove also acknowledged the same phenomenon, and noted that the number of new rental listings peaked for the year in June 2022.

Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s director of property data, said: “A shortage of rental homes and strong demand for the properties available has led to a greater number of tenants choosing to renew their leases and stay put, rather than re-enter a competitive rental market.”

“People who had been waiting to see what happened last year are now being faced with record rents, and so are seeking out properties where they can have more certainty over their outgoings, with all bills included becoming increasingly sought after.”

Will rent prices go down in 2023?

Most experts forecast that rents will continue to rise into 2023, albeit at a slower pace, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to take its toll on household incomes.

But, the localised element of the market means areas where demand is at its highest, could see rents continue to grow.

Rightmove’s Tim Bannister stated that it will take time for the difference between demand and supply to level out to see rents fall.

“The story of the rental market continues to be one of high tenant demand but not enough available homes to meet that demand,” he noted.

“The wide gap that has been created between supply and demand over the last two years will take time to narrow. Until then, this imbalance will continue to support asking rent growth. This has led to our revised forecast of an 8% rise in asking rents by the end of the year up from 5%.”

As demand rises, is your portfolio expanding? Let us help you. Our fully managed service takes the stress out of letting - find out more today by visiting our website.

*HomeLet

Listed properties are the types of homes you see in movies, or on a picturesque walk in the countryside. Their impressive and grand architecture, or their adorable cottage aesthetic are what makes listed properties so desirable, which is why they need extra protection.

These homes are amongst the most sought after on the market, and they can only increase in value over time, therefore interest in listed properties is usually high. However, these buildings come with rules regulations and restrictions.

What is a listed building?

Listed buildings are protected due to their architectural or historical significance and are graded in terms of interest. There are around 400,000 listed buildings in England alone. Wales has 30,000 and Scotland boasts 47,400.

How is a listed building different?

Listed buildings are typically older properties. As mentioned above, listed buildings are protected due to historical, architectural or local importance. Because of this, there are restrictions on work and alterations that can be done to a listed property. Buyers must be explicitly aware of this before putting down an offer.

The restrictions don’t just end at alterations to the property, the owner must also maintain the cultural integrity of the property. Meaning the upkeep of the home, such as a thatched roof, repairing lime plaster or replacing sash windows. This type of maintenance can often be very costly, and will require specialist tradespeople. Because of this, it takes a specific type of buyer to be willing to commit to a listed property.

What paperwork will you need if you’re selling a listed home?

It’s a given when selling any type of home, that you will be required to complete a TA6 form as part of the conveyancing process, which is designed to provide the prospective buyer with critically important information about the home. You will also need documents which can evidence your statements made in the TA6 form.

A vital document which you will need to provide is the Listed Building Consents. This is required for all works of demolition, alteration or extension to a listed building that affects its character as a building of architectural, or historic interest.

Other required documents include:

• Any Planning Permission documents
• Building Regulations Consent if alterations have been made
• Details of any private drains including old septic tanks or cesspits
• Professional Consultant Certificates and Latent Defect Warranties if any major work was done on the house

Are there any restrictions when selling a listed property?

While there aren’t any major restrictions involving selling a listed property, you must be certain that no illegal work has taken place. This includes work done during your time as the owner, or any work arranged or completed by previous owners.

Additionally, if work is required on the home while you are selling it, this will be flagged up in the buyer’s survey. Be aware that the buyer may want to negotiate the asking price or request that the issue is fixed before going through with the transaction.

Do you live in a listed property? We can help you sell! Get in touch with us today to book a valuation with our local property experts.

The housing market once again exceeds expectations after a poor reception from the chancellor’s mini-budget and regular talk of a possible slowdown, as current research suggests that in 2022, almost a third (31%) of properties are now receiving offers within an hour, compared to a mere 7% in 2018.

Over a five-year period, almost one in five (17%) properties received an offer within one hour of a viewing. An even more notable 7% of buyers made an offer on a property without attending an in-person viewing, according to data from MPowered Mortgages.

The data also outlined that properties receiving an offer in a day is up over the same period, rising from 26% in 2018, to almost half (48%) by 2022. Around 12% of homes have received an offer without a viewing this year, which could be a result of social norms shifting in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, where remote/virtual viewings became the new normal. The data showed a substantial jump in buying without viewing, up from 7% in 2018.

Strong demand and competitive buyers

To find out more about current buying behaviour, the fintech mortgage lender has launched a House Pace Index, driven by market conditions, government intervention within the property market, and consumer behaviour of wanting to ‘buy now’.

The research revealed that 38% of properties that have been placed on the market in the last five years received an offer within the same day of a viewing, with only 14% securing an offer after a second viewing.

The data also suggests that the younger generation are most prepared out of all age groups to take a more eager approach, with 18–34-year-olds acknowledged as most likely to adopt this mindset towards house buying. Some admitted to making an offer before seeing a property, in comparison to just 5% of 35–54-year-olds.

The average age of a first-time-buyer in the UK currently sits at 34, which is why this age group being quick to act could be pinned down to a lack of experience, coupled with fewer mortgage deals available on the market, the study suggested.

Tunnel vision

The data from Mpowered Mortgages also showed that, before making a first offer, buyers are seeing an average of three properties, while 40% of buyers only view two properties before deciding to make an offer on the home they set their sights on.

Pressure on buyers resulting in quick offers

The market is thriving with historical rates of activity as buyers race to secure their ideal property in the midst of a chronic imbalance between supply and demand. The current market climate and data findings show that offers are being made extremely quickly, despite common belief that a ‘slow-down’ is on the horizon.

Stuart Cheetham, CEO at MPowered Mortgages, commented:

“The race to find a home can be a daunting prospect even more so now in an environment where mortgage rates are rising as part of the cost of living. Of the many hurdles a homebuyer faces, one element that can be largely controlled is the certainty of their mortgage and this will be even more important as rates continue to rise.” 

Considering selling? Take advantage of the buoyant market and get in touch with us today to book your valuation.

As autumn leaves us and dark evenings approach, now is the best time to start preparing your home for the cold months ahead. Cold and damp weather can put a strain on our homes, so it’s important to have a few precautions in place to avoid unnecessary maintenance costs later down the line, in what is already set to be a challenging financial period.

High demand for professional tradespeople can lead to weeks of waiting to get work done, should you find your home is suffering from the onslaught of cold and wet weather conditions. So, planning ahead will help you avoid a facing winter without hot water and a leaky roof.

Boiler check

The last thing you need during the winter months when the house needs heating and waiting times for maintenance are longer than usual, is your boiler to have issues. Be proactive and get your boiler checked now, before it has to face the depths of winter.

Brick work

One issue that is often overlooked ahead of winter is inadequate brickwork pointing. This can become a major issue over time as it allows water ingress, as well as leaving your home susceptible to frost damage and damp. These issues will become far more prevalent during the winter months, as more favourable weather in the summer allows them to go unnoticed. It costs on average £50 to £60 per square metre to repoint your brick work, however the waiting times will only lengthen as the temperatures drop. Therefore, acting now before the cold and wet weather arrives will put you in good stead.

Roofing

Much like brickwork, problems with roofing tend to emerge more prevalently in cold and rainy conditions. Missing or cracked tiles are frequent problems that can lead to further issues in the home. Getting a roof inspection or necessary repairs can take as long as four weeks before the right tradesperson is available, so it’s important to take a proactive approach rather than wait for more serious damage to be done.

Water pipes

The winter months can take a toll on your water pipes, with low temperatures resulting in blocked, burst or frozen pipes. Insulting your pipes or fitting pipe jackets can be done for as little as £50, which is a huge saving compared to fixing the aftermath of a burst pipe. Any length of time without water in your home is a considerable wait, so sorting your water pipes now will save you a lot of trouble later.

Windows and doors

Minor misalignments of windows and doors may not seem like an issue, but your home could lose a considerable amount of heat, and rainwater has a better chance of entering your home. While the latter will cause damage from dampness, heating the home efficiently will become a much more pressing issue as we approach winter, and the cost of energy continues to rise. A general inspection or replacing a double-glazed window will require an upfront cost, but it will more than pay for itself due to the money saved on heating your home this winter – so long as you act now.

As we near the end of 2022, have you been thinking about selling? Book a valuation with us today.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a homeowner who’s ready to take another step up the property ladder, buying a house is a big decision, with an equally large scope for making errors. To help you get off to the right start when looking, here are the key mistakes to avoid when buying a property.

Not having an agreement in principle

A mortgage agreement in principle is a conditional offer on a mortgage, this is based on an income and credit check. You may be asked for one by an estate agent before even being able to book a viewing, to prove that you are serious.

You should have an idea of how much you might be able to borrow from the bank or building society before you start viewing properties. This will help you establish your budget and find properties within your price range. Your due diligence will also ensure that estate agent and seller will take your offer more seriously.

Only looking at superficial details

A property can seem ideal at first glance, but it’s important to check for any issues which might be costly to fix or maintain. You should always check walls and appliances around the home to ensure that everything works as it should.

Remember to check for signs of damp and rotting window frames, test the flush on the toilet, and don’t be too shy to turn lights on and off to check the electrics.

Not researching the area

If you’re relocating for your dream home, make sure you research the area fully before putting in an offer. Local amenities and the community can be just as important to your lifestyle as the home itself. Check the local crime rate statistics, talk to neighbours if you get a chance, and look up local schools, shops and any facilities you’ll need close by.

Underestimating overall costs

While it’s a great idea to focus on saving up enough for your house deposit, it’s important to remember all of the additional costs involved in buying a home. You’ll need to factor solicitor fees, survey and valuation costs, as well as home insurance before you can comfortably take your first step onto the property ladder.

Not acting quickly enough

If you’ve found the perfect property that works for you and your budget, try not to spend too much time twiddling your thumbs and mulling over the decision. If you overthink things and weigh up other options for too long before putting in an offer, you could see your dream home get snatched up by another buyer.

Acting too fast

While acting too slow isn’t advisable, rushing into things is no better. If you make a snap decision with little research beforehand, you could end up in a home that doesn’t realistically fit your budget on a monthly basis and even worse, doesn’t fit your needs.

Take some time to picture yourself in the house and conduct as much research as possible until you feel happy to make an offer. You should never make an offer solely because you feel pressured, as this will ultimately lead to regret.

The definition of the word ‘clean’ can vary from person to person, which is why most deposit disputes between landlords and tenants arise around the end of tenancy cleaning. It is the tenant’s responsibility to hand the property back over to the landlord in the same condition they found it in on move-in day, and most would prefer to do so without having to fork out for professional cleaning.

Tenants are not obligated to pay for professionals to clean the property if it is left in good condition. This is why a ‘deep clean’ is pinnacle, as dust and dirt can collect in every nook and cranny and is easy to miss during everyday clean-ups. Once you’ve packed up your personal items, you should tick all of these key cleaning steps off your checklist before handing the keys over:

Planning in advance

Cleaning an entire property from top to bottom can feel overwhelming, so it’s important to start planning early and budgeting for any necessary equipment. A deep clean will take more planning and effort than a typical spring clean, so make sure you allow yourself enough time, and factor in how long cleaning will take on top of your move.

One step at a time

The larger tasks in each room might call for your attention first and foremost, but the best protocol is to take things one room at a time. This way, you won’t find yourself overwhelmed and burnt-out early into the process, as cleaning from one room to the next allows a sense of order and you won’t end up forgetting the smaller details which matter just as much.

Deep cleaning

It’s best to make sure the property is completely empty before completing a deep clean, as personal items can get in the way, and you might end up having to go over the same areas more than once. A deep clean can match the results of professional cleaning if you put in the effort and attend to all of the essential tasks, these can include:

• Mopping floors and tiles
• Hoovering and steaming carpets and rugs
• Cleaning and polishing taps and other water fittings
• Removing cobwebs from walls, ceiling, and skirting boards
• Cleaning windows, doors, and handles
• Degreasing the hob, oven, and all components
• Dusting and polishing surfaces, such as tables and sideboards
• Removing limescale from sinks, showers, and bathtubs
• Scrubbing and disinfecting the toilet
• Removing mould from walls and tiles
• Wiping down kitchen cabinets and countertops
• Cleaning all appliances (kettles, toaster, and microwave etc)
• Emptying and cleaning the fridge and freezer
• Cleaning out large appliances like washing machines or dishwashers
• Emptying and cleaning bins (inside and outside ones)
• Sweeping and tidying outside areas
• Hoovering mattresses and sofa cushions

Check the cupboards and drawers

A kitchen can appear clean at a glance, but once you start opening things up, you’ll probably find that there is more work to be done. Make sure all the cupboards and drawers are completely empty and clear of any food residue or marks left by pots and pans. Try sticking to gentle cleaners such as dish soap and water as harsh chemicals, and too much water can damage the cabinets. 

Defrost and descale

If your landlord provided the property with white goods, it’s your responsibility to leave them in the condition you found them in. You can descale the kettle by filling it with equal parts white vinegar and water and bringing it to a boil. As for the freezer, use disinfectant to ensure it’s completely clean before unplugging and leaving the door open to allow any ice build-up to melt.

If you’re considering the points within this article, you may be on the hunt for your next rental property. Browse the homes we have available here.

Every decade brings along a new wave of first-time buyers, and this time around, millennials are on the market. To help you draw in this new pool of potential buyers, we’ve found the top features that most millennials will seek out in their ideal homes…

Sustainable and eco-friendly

Most modern buyers will be deterred by poor energy efficiency, as the impact it has on the environment (and monthly bills) is becoming a notoriously unattractive factor. Millennials want to reduce their carbon footprints as much as possible in their homes – from air source heat pumps to solar panels – even if this means pushing out the budget a little further. Homes that offer energy saving solutions are hot on the market for younger buyers and will become increasingly more valuable over time.

Good value for money

Millennials will want to know that their bills are being kept to a minimal while also having a home that caters to their every needs. These types of buyers will be new to the house buying process and might still be finding their financial feet, so being careful with money and making responsible choices is key. Often, they are also savvy about the schemes that are available to help them onto the ladder, and switched-on about which properties will cost more to run.

Visual appeal

Even while the market experiences unprecedented levels of short supply, millennial buyers are known for being selective about properties based on their appearance. They’re also drawn to visuals, and many will expect video tours to be available on the listings they browse, before committing to a booking. The information provided on the listing should also be as thorough as possible, as millennials like to know all the ins-and-outs of a property before attending a viewing. They will also undoubtedly read reviews online beforehand.

Location

Millennials will prefer to be in the heart of a great location, surrounded by a good community and local amenities for convenience. With many young buyers on the market being remote workers, location has become more important than ever before. The working from home buyer will seek out a quiet, scenic spot, with enough local shops and footpaths close by to fill up the lunch hour. While a commuting buyer will want a spot right in the city, with good commuter links and plenty of amenities available for the morning rush.

Convenience

After years of apartment living, millennial buyers will be highly attracted to a house which offers good storage space. Laundry rooms and pantries may also be important to these buyers, and they are likely to be attracted to a ‘ready-to-go’ home complete with all appliances, if it comes within budget.

Do you have a property that ticks all of these boxes? We could have a buyer waiting for you. Get in touch with us today to discuss the local demand for properties like yours.

With Christmas on the horizon and a chilly winter around the corner, there are many things to look forward to (and prepare for) at this time of year. To get your home ready in time for winter’s festivities and inclement weather, now is the perfect time to start preparing.

Replace floor protectors on chairs

Particularly if your home has hardwood floors, the influx of guests brought in by the festive season could result in your dining chairs scraping and scratching your flooring. Check their feet, and add or replace floor-protecting pads if necessary.

Check paths, stairs and railings for safety

As icy mornings set in, your pathways will become more slippery, and could lead to risk if the footing is uneven or a railing isn’t sturdy. Be sure to inspect the outside of your home, paying special attention to walkways, stairs, and railings, and make repairs where needed, before the evenings grow even darker and the temperatures drop.

Welcome nature into your garden

Although hibernation season is upon us, there are still some critters and feathered friends who could use extra help when wild food becomes scarce and water sources freeze. Create a safe spot for nonmigrating birds, by keeping your feeders full and replenishing any water sources in your garden daily. You could also consider adding a bug hotel in your garden, so our pollinators and their friends have somewhere warm and dry to rest.

Get a head start on Christmas prep

If you plan on hosting around the Christmas period, it’s a good idea to take some time now and prepare a few things in advance. Polish your special occasion silverware and favourite plates, clean and iron the fancy linens and tablecloths, and plan out your dining table décor – you’ll thank yourself later.

Deep-clean the bathroom

Aim to schedule a deep clean of the bathroom and guest toilet, so that a quick surface wipe-down will be all you’ll need to get things looking spotless again during the festive season.

Cover any gaps

Minor misalignments of windows and doors, or cracks in the walls may not seem like much of an issue, but your home could lose a considerable amount of heat, and rainwater has a better chance of entering. Check your home for any gaps and cracks and make sure they’re sealed – whether it’s through DIY or investing in a tradesperson.

Remove the last of the autumn leaves

Aim to fit in a gutter-cleaning session once the last leaves have fallen — but before the first fall of snow.

Fix plumbing issues before waiting times skyrocket 

If you’re experiencing problems with your plumbing, don’t wait until the busy festive season, when it may be more difficult to find an available plumber. You’ll avoid a Christmas without running water if you fix it now, before the issue worsens over winter.

Bring bulbs indoors

Potted bulbs make a lovely, thoughtful gift, and if you’re potting them for yourself, it’s easy enough to make a bunch to give away throughout the holiday season.

Stock up for winter

Dark, icy, and snowy mornings are hardly the ideal time for last minute trips to the shop for essentials. Taking the time now to stock up on winter gear and supplies will ensure less stress when the weather is not all that desirable.

• Check scrapers and de-icers; replace as needed
• If you use a fireplace or wood stove, order extra firewood
• Stock up on pet and plant safe ice melt
• Replenish emergency kits for car and home

If you’re considering selling in November, we can help you. Book a valuation today.

With the temperatures dropping and the nights looming longer, it’s understandable why most people abandon their gardens until spring rolls back around. This doesn’t need to be the case though, as there are plenty of ways to spruce up your outdoor space and squeeze some more enjoyment out of it during the winter months. There are plenty of benefits for doing so, and spending more time outdoors is integral to your health and happiness, especially when the dark nights approach so early. Here are some easy ways to give your garden a winter refresh:

Go evergreen

From box balls and topiaries to flowering shrubs; evergreens add structure to the garden year-round and come to the fore in winter. There are a myriad of beautiful evergreen shrubs to choose from, and many have the added advantage of strongly scented flowers for a touch of summer whenever you need it.

Decorate

If you prefer to enjoy your garden from behind a window, the dark and icy landscape could probably benefit from a touch of outdoor lighting. Invest in some solar-powered lights to illuminate your paths and beds, and create whimsical focal points that will contrast beautifully against the night.

For the daylight hours, wreaths, weather-resistant ornaments, and fresh planters can make all the difference when it comes to breathing some life back into your garden over the winter.

Do a little maintenance

In the thick of the snowy season, you probably won’t think to organise your garden shed or prune your woody plants. But as the holidays roll around, you can take advantage of having a little extra free time to take on those nagging maintenance tasks – and you’ll thank yourself come spring.

Welcome the wildlife

Despite the common misconception that our gardens are of no use in the winter, garden wildlife really needs your help over the cold months! In fact, the harsher the weather and the less food there is in the countryside, the more important our outdoor sanctuaries are for our furry and feathered friends. Make sure to clean out, disinfect, and replenish your feeders regularly, as squirrels and birds will become more reliant on them the further we delve into winter. Another great way to help is to provide a fresh source of water, as finding clean water to drink can be difficult for wildlife when the temperatures drop below zero.

Make things cosy

Whether you have a small patio, a balcony, or a patch of grass; there are plenty of opportunities to create a cosy outdoor spot that will come in handy any time you have guests over. If you’re working with a small space, create an intimate area by placing chairs and repurposed cushions around an outdoor heater or firepit to create the perfect spot for night-time gathering.

If your plans for entertaining guests fall on a rainy day, you could invest in some shelter and embellish with twinkling garden string lights to replace the view of the stars.

Curious how much your home is worth? Book a free valuation today to find out.

According to a new analysis of property market performance over the past three months, estate agents across the UK have facilitated just over 43,000 transactions per month – meaning they have sold an average of 17% of all homes listed for sale on a monthly basis.*

A study has been conducted by Get Agent to reveal where in the UK estate agents with the highest turnovers reside. Registered property transactions, the level of sales turnover activity, and the transactions of all homes listed for sale were all analysed.

Regional performance

The latest figures from the study revealed that both the North West and Yorkshire and The Humber rank top. Across the North West, estate agents are currently selling over 5,500 homes per month on average, whilst in Yorkshire and The Humber, the monthly average sits at 4,200.

However, when the regional rate of sales is compared to the total stock listed, agents across both regions are selling the equivalent of an astounding 20% of all homes for sale each month.

In the West Midlands and North East, the average is a notable 19%, while the East Midlands follows close behind with 18%.

The South West, South East and East of England are tied, with monthly sales volumes landed by agents across these areas equating to 17% of the overall stock listed on the market.

In Wales, agents were found to be selling around 15% of total market stock each month, while London ranks last at a respectable 12%.*

Market perseverance

The data is further evidence of the market remaining resilient during times of uncertainty. Homeowners and first-time buyers can take comfort in the government’s return to a more traditional economic approach, which is likely to continue to stabilise the mortgage markets. The bank of England indicated in mid-November that a continued rapid hike of the base rate in 2023 would be unlikely, so this suggests that concerns around mortgage rates creating a demand cliff edge will not now come to pass, protecting homeowners from their assets declining in value. Buyers and sellers alike appear to be proceeding with confidence, and their trust in the market continues to pay off.

Mal McCallion, COO of Get Agent, commented: “The property market has been motoring since the pandemic and this is abundantly clear when analysing just how hard the nation’s estate agents have been working. And now, even during a more difficult period for the market, in many areas of the UK correctly-priced homes are still selling as quickly as agents can list them."

"Of course, it’s important to note that a good quality agent is based on far more than their sales turnover - and the challenges they face differ from one property pocket to the next. In today’s market, the real value added by agents isn’t just through speed of sale or asking price achieved - it’s by using their experience and knowledge to synthesise these skills and get the sale over the line."

"These traits are particularly invaluable in slower areas of the market and it’s fair to say that now, more than ever, quality counts - you’re going to need all the attributes of a great agent to get your best sale through for the rest of this year and the next.”

Thinking of selling your home? Contact our team of experts today to get started.

*Get Agent

Although the evenings are gloomy, the roads are busy, and the weather outside is frightful – moving home during the festive period can be a stress-free process if you’re well prepared for it. Whether you’re buying your first home this season or moving on to your next, here are some top tips for a smooth move during the holidays…

Book a removals company

With unfavourable weather, limited staff and packed schedules, removal companies can be difficult to reach close to Christmas, and this can cause complications with moving. As we reach the end of the year, companies often get booked up in advance, so make sure to ring up as early as possible and secure your delivery slot.

Christmas decorations

Years worth of Christmas décor can quickly turn into a festive frenzy when moving house, so it’s a good idea to organise and label your boxes of seasonal goodies so that they’re ready for move-in day. If you’re moving just in time for Christmas, you’ll likely want to have your decorations unboxed right away, so pack them where they’ll be within easy reach and won’t get damaged. 

Prep for bad weather

Weather conditions are always an important factor when moving, and you’ll need keep an eye on the forecast while you’re planning. Adverse weather can cause delays when moving your belongings, so try and choose a day when the odds are in your favour.

If you’re heading towards a snowy or rainy moving date, protect your new floors from any wet and muddy shoes by laying down cardboard or plastic sheeting in the rooms and on the staircase.

You will also need to prepare for your journey, as trying to stay warm when the temperatures are low can be just as exhausting as overheating, so make sure to leave some warm clothes out of the suitcase and keep a jumper or coat spare just in case!

Shop early

Get your Christmas shopping out of the way early so that you aren’t disrupting your move. If you’re able to, go through your present list and make sure everything is packed and sent out before moving day. The last thing you need when sorting and packing your belongings is a big pile of unwrapped gifts and cards to wade through. If you’re moving close to Christmas, it might also be a good idea to get your food shop done early by ordering online so you can avoid any last-minute shopping and queueing close to the big day.

Secure all valuables

The festive period presents many opportunities for thieves, especially if you have any high-value items or presents boxed up at the ready. Stay vigilant and ensure all of your belongings are safe while you’re moving. Never leave a door unlocked or a vehicle open and unsupervised, and keep an eye out throughout the process for any opportunists who might’ve noticed a moving van outside your house.

Spread the cheer

A nice touch for this season is to leave the owners of your old home a small welcome pack or note with some helpful information inside. You could write up some handy tips about living in the home – such as when the bins are collected or the designated safe-place for missed parcels.

While you’re at it, why not leave a Christmas card as well? After all, ‘Tis the season to be jolly.

If you’re looking for your next home, take a look at our selection of properties. 

Interior design is more than just dressing up a property to look nice, it’s all about making your house feel like home. Throughout 2022, we saw hundreds of iconic interior design trends filtering from celebrity quarters into our homes across the UK – from classic throwbacks to hypermodern and minimalist – we can look back on these trends to see what’s being left behind, and what we’ll be seeing a lot more of in the months to come.

Hideaway home offices and private spaces

From many of our learned behaviours since the pandemic, isolation and working from home are the two that have become integral to the way our homes look and function. Hideaway offices that are completely separate to the rest of the house offer a healthier work-life balance – a far cry from working at the kitchen table back in 2020.

Luxury monochromatic

For a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, monochromatic patterns and palettes will be an ongoing trend stretching far beyond 2023. This style is simply made for bathrooms and kitchens, offering a clean and modern look.

Arches

Arched doorways and windows have become big news in extensions and renovations, with gentle curves softening out the clean-cut edges that have proliferated for so long. Moving away from sharp corners and straight lines, softness has become very contemporary in recent years, with home designs seeing relaxed, stripped-back styles replacing the bold and edgy.

Wavy wood

Soft and curved wood is the modern interpretation of the humblest of materials, implementing a stylish, smooth spin on one of nature’s roughest textures. From curvy coffee tables to smooth seating areas, nature-inspired homes can swap out rustic textures for something sleeker and more refined with these materials.

Vintage furniture

Fast furniture might be on the way out, as the lack of longevity for these highly accessible pieces creates catastrophic waste. Those decorating their homes into 2023 come from a planet-conscious generation, and vintage furniture is the way to keep the cost down and find beautiful, high-quality furnishings without having to overspend.

Lavender

Lavender is making a lot of noise in the interior design scene, and for good reason. The balanced, soothing tones make it a versatile colour for decorating – whether it’s used as an accent or as a statement. The sweetness of the pink and coolness of the blue make for a happy medium that can be implemented into all areas of the home for a stunning pop of colour that doesn’t steal away the whole show.

Statement stone

From classic marble countertops to romantic rose quartz coasters, stone finishes are the perfect statement. These natural materials with their glossy surfaces and muted hues will be making a welcomed comeback into 2023.

Bringing back the 70’s

The 1970’s influence we’ve seen on fashion runways lately has clearly translated into the interior world, and it’s no surprise that the earth tones, biophilic design and low-slung furniture of this era will be coming back into our homes imminently – albeit with a modern twist. 

Wondering how much your home is worth? Find out by arranging a free valuation.

Selling your home requires a good amount of patience and persistence, and the process is never as straightforward as it might seem. On average, 34% of transactions fall through before exchange, and this is why some homes take longer to sell than expected.

If you’re thinking about ways to jumpstart the moving process, we’ve put together some top tips to help you achieve that smooth sale…

Complete your forms

At the outset of the sale, your solicitor will send over a property information form and a fitting contents form which will need to be completed and returned. These documents form part of the contract paperwork that is sent to your buyer’s solicitor, so the sooner you complete these forms, the sooner the solicitor will have a full pack of information to work through and raise any enquiries they might have.

Alterations

In the property information form, you will be asked whether you have carried out any alterations to your property. If the answer is yes, return the form with copies of the relevant planning permissions, building regulation completion certificates and electrical and gas installation certificates attached. This will narrow down the amount of enquires that need to be raised by your buyer’s solicitor – and therefore will speed up the process.

Guarantees

The property information form will also ask if there are any existing guarantees for the property. If so, make sure to give them to your solicitor with your completed forms. For example, if the property is less than 10 years old, there should be a new home warranty and if you have had damp treatment carried out on the home, there should be a damp-proofing guarantee.

Any time spent getting the necessary paperwork prior to your sale or even as soon as the property is listed will pay off immensely in time saved once the lawyers are involved.

Survey

It’s highly advisable to have a survey carried out, and if you decide to, it is your responsibility to instruct the surveyor rather than your solicitor. It’s important to note that the surveyor may not be able to visit the property immediately, so it’s better to book the survey sooner rather than later. Once your survey has been conducted, the surveyor can prepare a report which may take a few days. As soon as you have received the report, you should forward a copy to your solicitor immediately as they may have to raise further enquiries with your seller, depending on the findings.

Mortgage

If you are purchasing with the aid of a mortgage, it is essential that you provide your lender with the documents that they have requested as soon as possible. This can range from ID documents to evidence of income, and they will not be able to issue a mortgage offer until these requirements have been met. 

Money

Upon exchange you will need to hand over the agreed deposit to your solicitor, so make sure the right amount of money is readily available and in the right account as you may be asked to transfer it to your solicitor at short notice.

Completion Date 

The buyer and seller should have agreed on how soon completion will take place after the exchange. This is something to start considering early on in the transaction as the exchange cannot go forward until a completion date has been agreed upon by both parties. Let your estate agent and solicitor know of any dates that need to be ruled out and any preferences you might have for timing. This will eliminate the need to negotiate on dates in the final stages when everyone is eager to get moving.

Are you thinking of selling your home? Get started on your property journey today by arranging an up-to-date valuation.

As we approach the end of a turbulent financial year, many landlords in the UK will be weighing up their options going into 2023 and debating whether to remain in the buy-to-let market. Despite an uncertain economic outlook, we can take a look into what’s happening right now and decipher whether or not buy-to-let will continue to be a worthwhile investment going forward.

What’s happening to buy-to-let mortgages?

In the fallout from former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s renowned mini-budget, just like the rest of the market, buy-to-let loans took a hit.

The number of available products decreased to just 988 different deals in the wake of the announcement, compared with 1,942 before the mini-budget, according to Zoopla.*

This is due to interest rates increasing significantly since the beginning of the year as a result of the hikes to the Bank of England’s base rate, which is the official cost of borrowing.

However, the mortgage market is currently in state of flux. Rates have slightly fallen after some market confidence was restored by the appointment of Jeremy Hunt as the new Chancellor, and they may fall further as the cost of government borrowing continues to drop.

Are any new regulations being introduced in 2023?

The government has pledged to introduce the Renters Reform Bill, which includes measures to protect renters from unfair rent increases and evictions. Homes will also have to meet minimum standards and it will become easier for renters to have pets.

The changes are centred around improving the quality of homes in the private rental sector, with the government estimating that 21% of properties are currently unfit.

However, the new bill will not lead to significant extra costs (if any) for landlords who already maintain high standards.

What’s happening with rents?

Rental rates are currently rising in line with mortgage rates. Data from Zoopla’s latest Rental Market Report found that new rental rates have increased by £115 during the past year to average at £1,051.*

This sharp spike is due to the disparity between supply and demand in the sector. With too many landlords exiting the market due to uncertainty, there are too few properties available in the private rental sector to catch up with current demand.

The number of rental homes on the market is currently around half the level seen during the past five years.* Meanwhile, the rate of demand for a rental property is around 142% higher than five years prior, according to Zoopla.*

We can expect that the trend of demand outstripping supply is likely to continue into 2023, putting further upward pressure on rents.

Should I purchase a buy-to-let property?

Those looking to invest should not be deterred by the current conditions. In fact, with rental demand soaring, first-time buyers postponing their step onto the property ladder for the time being, and rents reaching new highs, you are likely to be in a strong position if you choose to invest now.

What’s the outlook?

The buy-to-let market – like the rest of the market – is likely to encounter a few ‘bumps’ in the coming year as a result of hiked-up mortgage rates and the cost-of-living squeeze.

But with demand far outweighing supply for rental homes, and strong rent increases expected going into 2023, property investment remains a safe bet over the long term, in spite of any short-term hurdles.

If you’re interested in becoming a landlord, contact our team today for advice.

Zoopla*

January is a time of clarity, after shaking off the tinsel and pine needles, it’s the time to return to everyday life with intentions of improving it – which is why plans for moving often come into fruition at this time of year.

If you have some reservations about putting your house on the market so soon after Christmas, here are some reasons not to worry and why in fact, January could be the perfect time to sell…

New Year, new home

Buyers on the market at this time of year have a completely different mindset than usual. January can feel like a page turned for many people, with plans for a new life right in the margins. You’re less likely to run into time wasters and tyre kickers in the New Year. People looking for a home at this time are serious about their plans, and if your home happens to match their criteria; you’re in luck.

Boast your home’s best features

Smart buyers will look for a home in the winter. Not only to avoid the summer frenzy, but also because cold weather is far more revealing, and homes can potentially look their worst in the winter. However, this is a great window of opportunity for sellers. Your agent will be able to showcase the comforts of your home with staging so that your bright, warm and welcoming house contrasts against the dark and cold. A cosy refuge from the cold that holds up nicely in the Winter is bound to look even better when the weather cheers up, and this prospect is certain to draw in buyers. 

On the move

In the wake of the holiday season, January is known for being the busiest time of year when it comes to employee redistribution and staff changes. With many people working from home, a change of job may be the push needed for a change of working environment; instead of moving offices, people will be moving to new homes with better office space. 

Now is also the perfect time for first-time-buyers to take their first step onto the property ladder. After spending Christmas indoors with family or in a small apartment, a change in environment could be just the thing they need. 

Less competition

The winter months are a great time to put your house up for sale, particularly in January when the seasonal lull is still wearing off and fewer properties are on the market. You won’t need to fight for buyers’ attention, and the imbalance of supply and demand could be great news for sellers, as buyers know their options are fewer. It’s also easier to make your home stand out from a (smaller) crowd of homes on the market, and if yours has something special to offer, it won’t stay on the market for very long. 

The green element

EPC ratings are becoming increasingly important, and the cold weather will allow you to show off your home’s energy efficiency. Buyers are becoming more conscious about energy bills and individual environmental impact at the moment, and a cosy property with an impressive EPC rating has never been more attractive to buyers than right now. 

Ready to get your home on the market? Speak to our team of experts today to get started.