Statistics from Nationwide have shown annual house price growth has risen by 11.2%, taking the average value of a property in the UK to £255,556 after the sixth consecutive month of monthly increases. 

December 2021 to January 2022 saw an increase of 0.8% increase month on month, further demonstrating the continual price growth. 

The stamp duty holiday scheme was a major driving force behind the statistics we are currently seeing, with property demand and high mortgage approval rates also playing their part. 

With stock levels in the property market down after the rush of making the stamp duty deadline last September, this has led to buyers sparking a bidding war for properties, driving property prices in the process. 

Not only are property prices increasing, but property transactions throughout 2021 also reached the highest since 2007. 

With the current market conditions suiting those wanting to sell, and Spring often being seen as the best time to sell a property, now is the time to act. 

Value your property this February, contact us for a consultation.

As spring approaches, you may be ready for a deep clean. So, how can you prepare your home for the longer days and milder nights?  

Here’s a simple checklist to get you started. 

Extract your vases 

Fresh flowers are such a treat, and now is an excellent time to bring them back into your house.  

Give your vases a thorough clean and replace any that seem worn. 

Store away your winter footwear 

Clean your winter shoes, then pack the toes gently with newspaper to keep them in shape.  

Don't discard shoe boxes after purchase; they make wonderful storage containers.  

Stack your winter shoes and boots in the back or top of your closet and bring your summer shoes and boots forward. 

Clean doors and windows 

You will want to make the most of the spring light, so be sure to clean your windows to create an airier feel in your home. 

Cleaning your door frames is also a simple way to brighten up your home’s interior.  

Get your garden ready 

As we head further into spring, it might be time to bring out the garden furniture.  

Tidy away any plants which have caught the winter frost.  

Clear any remaining winter debris – including build-up in the gutters – and tackle any essential repairs before you get distracted by weeding and mowing the lawn.  

Keeping your home in tip-top condition is also a good idea if you intend to sell soon.  

Not only will it be ready for a professional photoshoot, but you’ll also make a great first impression on your viewers too.  

Are you ready for a fresh start? Just give us a call on 01227 454 111 today for expert advice about prepping your home for its market debut.  

Minimalism is more than just a form of decoration; it's a way of life.

What is the definition of a minimalist home? 

Minimalism usually entails employing the bare minimum of items to create a clean and uncluttered environment. 

A minimalist home is usually airy, neutral, and straightforward. 

You should commit to modifying both your environment and your thinking if you want to build a minimalist home. 

Here are four recommendations on how to construct a minimalist home to help you get on board with the minimalist trend and start living a simpler life. 

1. Clear out the clutter 

Minimalism is based on the principle that less is more. One of the most important ideas is to have fewer possessions and less clutter. 

However, minimalism is more than just getting rid of items. It's all about having objects in your home that serve a purpose, whether that purpose is emotional, visually pleasing, or practical. 

2. Use wall colours that are bright and neutral 

A minimalist home makes the most of available space. 

Paint the walls in light, neutral tones to make your home appear bright and large. This can give your property a more natural, relaxing appearance. 

3. Opt for bold furniture. 

Be daring if you want to design a minimalist home. 

Choose furniture that is large and solid in colour, such as orange, brown, green, or navy. 

If you don't want to spend a lot of money on new furniture, consider repurposing what you currently have. You may repaint old furniture or upcycle things at a low cost. 

Stick to having a few larger pieces around your home – such as artwork or mirrors – rather than a bunch of little decorations to keep your home clutter-free. 

4. Buy with intention 

Everything in your home, both now and in the future, should serve a function. Buying with intention is the key to keeping your home modest. 

Consider the following factors before making a purchase: 

Is it a good match for your current decor? 

Will it be able to find a home? 

Is it made of the same or similar materials as the rest of your home's furnishings? 

What will be the function of this item? Is it functional, aesthetic, or emotional? 

Make it a rule not to buy anything unless you know the answers to these questions. 

Are you considering going minimalist before selling your home? 

When it comes to house staging for a sale, going for a minimalist design is one of the finest choices you can make. 

There are fewer distractions when you have less stuff. Buyers are more likely to see themselves living in your home when there are fewer distractions. 

Our professionals are here to assist you in selling your home as quickly as possible. 

Speak to us today to schedule a consultation with one of our professionals. 

Of course, you want to attract and select the best tenants - people who will take care of the property, pay the rent, and leave you with little to do. 

But where do you look for suitable tenants? 

Is there anything you could do to make the tenancy as painless as possible, allowing you to get on with your life? 

1. Delegate viewings to your agent. 

Use your lettings agency to handle viewings unless you have prior experience. 

In our situation, we have a lot of experience in the industry and will have a gut sense about the people who walk through the door. 

This, together with your brief, ensures that we are always prepared to 'vet' potential tenants. 

Have faith in your agent. If they're anything like us, they'll be aware of the type of tenant you're looking for and will make sure that any viewing requests are in line with your requirements. 

2. Work as a property matchmaker 

If you're searching for someone to live in your home who is as nice and tidy as you are, it's a good idea to have it photographed in that state, even if it's minimalist. 

You'll be more likely to find the ideal tenant who wants to live that way, and they'll be aware of the expectations you establish from the outset. 

When the images are taken, make sure your rooms are decorated or arranged suitably. 

3. Compile a shortlist 

It's easier to weed out undesirable tenants if you and your lettings agency ask a list of questions you've already prepared. 

Whether you're asking or we're asking, the responses will assist you in making a decision. 

Consider the responses you'll need to hear and tailor your inquiries accordingly. 

4. Conduct thorough background checks. 

Viewings have been completed, and you've identified some potential tenants. Bingo. But hold on a second. Now is the moment to complete those crucial checks. 

Even if you're letting to a friend, it's critical to do this part correctly. 

This is where we can help you the most. 

We'll do all of the legwork for you and recommend the people we think are the best fit for your property. 

Please contact us if you require assistance in leasing your property. 

We'll gladly assist you in marketing your property, finding a tenant, and completing any necessary inspections.