Welcome to your monthly property update!

Welcome to your monthly property update!




Decided to downsize? Here are a few things to consider

 
Downsizing is no longer something that you do when you pay off your mortgage and your family has all grown up and fled the nest! Young people are also downsizing, and it has become a bit of a trend, helped in no small part by the cost-of-living crisis and the rapid growth of property prices in recent years. This is helping to keep smaller house prices strong because, while larger homes are desirable, they are not in demand quite as much. But it’s not all about numbers—people are downsizing for a host of reasons, so what are they?

Liberating your life
Downsizing can be a liberating experience. You get to move to a more compact home, and because of this, you need to declutter. It’s a bit like giving your life a good spring cleaning. Finally, you can say goodbye to all those belongings that you no longer need or want. You have probably forgotten why you bought some of these things in the first place! On the other hand, you will want to keep other, more sentimental items and the things that still mean something to you or are at the very least useful. This helps refocus your life and allows you to concentrate on what’s important.

What’s important to you?
If you have retired and you want to enjoy your life, then releasing the equity in your home by selling up and moving to something smaller makes a lot of sense. You can’t take it with you! Having worked hard most of your life, you want to live it to the fullest. This principle applies to the younger demographic too. Many people view life a little differently than in the past and place a lot of emphasis on the adventure of life. Travelling, holidays, socialising, and hobbies are as important as paying a mortgage.

Easy living
Less cleaning, maintenance, and effort required to keep your home in order is a tempting prospect for many. Decorating your home is easier, and perhaps an emphasis on quality in place of size sways some home movers to enjoy more compact spaces that are accessorised to the standards they desire.

Lower living costs
When all is said and done, the fact remains that smaller homes tend to cost less to run. Cheaper energy bills will save you money, and you will most likely pay less in council tax. Your mortgage payments could also be lower. If you are downsizing from a bigger property and have good levels of equity in your current home, you could become mortgage-free or reduce its term significantly.

It’s important to plan
Careful planning is a good idea. You may need to change your furniture, and saying goodbye to certain items can be emotional. Consider all aspects of your new life. From family visits to spare rooms to space for your hobbies. A good tip is to use your floor plan to work out what is going where in as much detail as possible. Then enjoy your new life with a little more money and time to concentrate on your newfound freedom!

Are you interested in downsizing or moving to a bigger property? Get in touch today.



Why is the spring 2023 property market in a good place?

 
Average house prices in the UK have since the pandemic risen by £42,000.* The value of your home has increased rapidly in recent years, and this puts you in a great place even if there has been a bit of a slowdown, but then you could be forgiven for asking: What slowdown? House prices are stable and, at times, increasing, and to gauge the market by the unpresented growth in the past few years is a little unfair. Nonetheless, most of the value gained, or in some cases, the continued increase in value still exists as equity in your home. Even if you have lost a little value, you are still in a good place. A little bit of market cooling leaves more scope for getting your hands on the keys to a better home with a bigger discount without the frantic price bidding of past years.

The home improvement boom
It’s no secret that many homes had thousands spent on them during the pandemic. Many people, due to travel restrictions, chose to spend money on their homes instead of holidays. As a result, many homes are now in beautiful condition. Freshly decorated with external and internal renovations, resulting in homes with great work-from-home spaces and outdoor living areas that are ready and waiting to be lived in. This really does make a huge difference in the quality of your home and work-life balance. Homes with kitchens that inspire you, gardens that take your breath away, and bathrooms boasting cutting-edge design.

More mortgage choice
Mortgage choice is returning to the market, with thousands of options now available. So in essence, you will have a lot of decisions to make when it comes to what home you want and what mortgage you require. In many ways, all of this makes the prospect of moving very interesting compared with past years. Some home buyers are choosing to take interest-only mortgages, knowing they can overpay their mortgages, which releases some of the pressure on financial commitments.

Interest rates
Mortgage interest rates are falling, and the recent announcement of the IMF (International Monetary Fund) suggests that interest rates could return to pre-pandemic levels. ** The suggestion is that the high interest rates that many of us are paying at the moment are not a long-term deal. It could be the case, and it’s accepted by many analysts, that in the not-too-distant future, we will be paying less for our mortgages.

A bigger selection of homes
Compared to last year, the stock of homes for sale in the UK has been boosted by 60%.* The spring market is rapidly becoming the summer market. And perhaps the enticing thought of moving to a perfect home in time for summer is too much to resist for some home movers. As home movers take the plunge, they put their homes on the market, adding to the splendid choice for you to explore. The market is in a better place than last year in many ways, but at last you can enjoy it without being flustered by a frantic rush to get your hands on the home you truly love.

Live the life you deserve by finding the home you love living in! Start your search now and browse our properties.

Zoopla*
IMF BLOG**



Thinking of buying a new build? 

 
Buying a new build is becoming more appealing for many home buyers. While you may prefer the charm and character of older properties, many new builds seem to offer much more personality than in past years. Making your decision is not quite as straight-forward as it once was! There are many good reasons for choosing a new build home, so what are they?

Guarantees
Most new builds are sold with warranties of up to ten years. This protects you against any nasty surprises and unexpected costs. You certainly will not have to worry about plumbing or rewiring issues. Not to mention the stairs or reskimming walls compared with redecorating an older property.

Lower maintenance costs
Even after a few years of living in your new home, chances are you will not have anything to repair or maintain. Insulation, upgrading the boiler, even if you are contemplating fitting solar panels, you might find that these could be fitted before you move in. In the garden, you will only ever need to add to what is most likely quite basic; compare this to landscaping or the removal of an old patio or decking, and already you have saved significantly in costs.

Design it to your specifications
Often, new build homes are not built before you move in! This means you can decide on things like kitchen design, tiling and colour schemes for the bathroom, and the locations of sockets. You will most likely get options for landscaping the garden too.

Energy efficiency
Most new builds have good EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ratings of A and B, making your monthly energy bills cheaper than those of some older homes, which achieve less energy efficiency. That’s not to say you can’t find an older home with a good rating, and energy consumption will also depend heavily on the energy ratings of your appliances.

The appeal of a brand-new home
A bit like buying a new car, for some people, owning a home that nobody else has lived in is an appealing prospect. You will be the first to enjoy everything that is brand new, from floor to ceiling, not to mention the new kitchen and bathroom. This will make it feel a bit more exclusive, but on the other hand, often new builds are part of larger developments and are quite similar even if created to your own specifications.

No chain
Another big advantage of buying a new build is that it's chain-free. That means you could spend less time waiting to move in, provided you have the financing in place. That said, there is no guarantee that this will be a faster process. It largely depends on how quickly your new home is built. And that depends on how soon you purchase it!

With no resident seller, rely on your agent
A good move to make for added peace of mind is to buy through a trusted agent. The home-moving process can be stressful, and with no resident seller, you want to rely on an established and experienced team you can trust.

Are you thinking more and more about buying a new build? Get in touch to see how we can help.



Now is a great time to buy bigger! 

 
Homes for first-time buyers, typically with two bedrooms, are selling exceptionally well right now. In March 2023, they were just 4% down on 2019, and average asking prices for the same period were down by just £500.*

The market for larger homes is a little slower, with sales agreed in March being 10% down on 2019 and second-stepper homes being 13% down.* This tells us that the market is in pretty good shape overall, but what is more obvious is that now is a great time to ascend the property ladder.

If you own a home that is suitable for first-time buyers, with two bedrooms or along the lines of a compact starter home, you will get a great price, and with larger homes selling a little lower than current asking prices, you are likely to get an offer accepted that will save you a bit of money.

Why is your starter home in such high demand?
There are many reasons why demand for smaller, more compact homes is high right now. There is the price of energy and the cost-of-living crisis. First-time buyers are looking to get on the ladder before the mortgage guarantee scheme, which makes it possible for first-time buyers to buy with a 5% deposit and is due to end in December this year. It stands to reason that smaller homes are cheaper to run, with less council tax and less maintenance, although this is not always the case. And with people downsizing to smaller homes, chances are that if you want to sell up, it will not take long before you are on the move.

How can you get more house per property pound if you buy bigger?
The short answer is that smaller homes are selling more quickly than larger homes, so the price of smaller homes is stronger, leading to less scope for negotiation. With asking prices for larger homes not quite as strong as those for smaller homes, you are essentially getting more house for your money. It stands to reason that if you find a bigger home and it’s taking a little longer to sell, and with asking prices achieved at a lower rate than those of smaller homes, you already have one foot in the front door. Bring your haggling hat; there is nothing more annoying than ridiculously low offers that will only get rejected. But there is more scope for a reasonable amount of manoeuvring on price.

The market will bounce back, and that bigger house may become out of reach!
Many analysts expect house prices to rise quite steadily in 2024. In March, average property prices rose by 0.8%.* This could be a sign that buyers now realise that now is a good time to move, and it is a sure sign that the market is healthy and stable. Without a crystal ball, the future is impossible to predict, but you might find that in the near future, larger homes will become out of reach as prices start to ascend more rapidly.

Interest rates
It’s no secret that interest rates are on people's minds right now. However, with the recent announcement of the IMF (International Monetary Fund), which predicts interest rates to fall back to pre-pandemic levels. Mortgage interest rates are on the way down, and with many analysts suggesting that they may return to much lower rates, when buying a home, you could consider higher interest rates to be temporary.

Conclusion
Perhaps the best thing to do is to check out the market and see what you can find. The joy of property hunting is that you never know what you might find. There are no fixed rules, but you might be surprised at what you could achieve.

Looking for a bigger home? Looking for a more energy-efficient home? Looking to sell your home? Get in touch, whatever your property needs are!

Rightmove*



Conyngham Lane Bridge, Canterbury

The Burrden is an outstanding modern detached four bedroom house which has been thoughtfully...
 
£1,250,000
 

Click here to read Conyngham Lane Bridge, Canterbury.



Cromwell Road, Canterbury

A beautifully presented 5 bedroom detached family house situated in a sought-after residential area close...
 
£750,000
 

Click here to read Cromwell Road, Canterbury.



Mother's Day Afternoon Teas at 9th-10th March 2024

 

Treat your mum to a delicious Afternoon Tea this Mother's Day weekend in our beautiful Mallandain Room or larger groups will be seated in the Robinson Room.

 

 

Click here to read Mother's Day Afternoon Teas at 9th-10th March 2024.



Good news for homemovers! Homebuyer numbers are increasing

 

In September this year, the number of buyers returning to the UK property market increased by 12% compared with August.* Whether you are wishing for snow this Christmas or a new home, the good news is that more buyers are returning to the UK property market. So, if you are thinking of moving, now is the time to start your search as more properties appear on the market.

The snowball effect creates more sellers
As more buyers get on the move, they bring with them a choice of interesting properties to the market. Many homeowners are downsizing as their families have flocked the nest. Some younger buyers, having stayed at home to save a deposit, have now moved out and bought their first properties. Finally, Mum and Dad have their chance to downsize or use some equity to buy a holiday home. This gives you the chance to find a property with a bit more room. More and more homes appear on the market as home movers exchange contracts.

Home movers are acclimatising to the new normal level of interest rates
Interest rates in the past have been far higher than those of today. And it’s no secret that in recent years we have been spoiled with super low rates. Buyers are now realising that rates today still represent a good deal. Affordability levels are still good. As home movers and households adjust and accept that their mortgage costs are a bit higher, many are choosing to carry on with their home moving plans.

Christmas home-moving flurry
Being in a new home in time for Christmas is a very appealing idea, and many movers are already well into their home-moving journey. More bedrooms for your growing family or a place for everyone to sit at the table in a larger dining room. A magical winter garden tastefully embellished for the holiday season or just because you finally create your vision of an awesome outdoor space. There are so many great reasons to move.

A better year
You may be moving because you want a better work-from-home space, or your motives are based on a new location for work or to live closer to your family. And getting it done in time to start the new year is arguably better than rushing around in time for Christmas. Starting the new year in a new property is like making a fresh start. And the impact the right home can have on your sensory and emotional well-being is extraordinary. Feeling like you are revitalised for all that the year brings in a happier home is a great way to live.

Navigating the property market
In a fragmented and increasingly complex property market, it’s vital that you find the right agent who truly understands your property’s market. Fluctuating prices and an air of insecurity are still in the minds of some homeowners, thanks to so many negative news stories that often overlook the positive aspects of today's market. The reality is that each home-moving story is unique. Agents' databases are filled with individuals who have a specific vision for where they want to live. Your home may be central to this. With an overall shortage of properties relative to high demand, pricing your property accurately has never been more critical.

Book your expert face-to-face valuation today.

Zoopla*



Good news for homemovers! Homebuyer numbers are increasing

 

In September this year, the number of buyers returning to the UK property market increased by 12% compared with August.* Whether you are wishing for snow this Christmas or a new home, the good news is that more buyers are returning to the UK property market. So, if you are thinking of moving, now is the time to start your search as more properties appear on the market.

The snowball effect creates more sellers
As more buyers get on the move, they bring with them a choice of interesting properties to the market. Many homeowners are downsizing as their families have flocked the nest. Some younger buyers, having stayed at home to save a deposit, have now moved out and bought their first properties. Finally, Mum and Dad have their chance to downsize or use some equity to buy a holiday home. This gives you the chance to find a property with a bit more room. More and more homes appear on the market as home movers exchange contracts.

Home movers are acclimatising to the new normal level of interest rates
Interest rates in the past have been far higher than those of today. And it’s no secret that in recent years we have been spoiled with super low rates. Buyers are now realising that rates today still represent a good deal. Affordability levels are still good. As home movers and households adjust and accept that their mortgage costs are a bit higher, many are choosing to carry on with their home moving plans.

Christmas home-moving flurry
Being in a new home in time for Christmas is a very appealing idea, and many movers are already well into their home-moving journey. More bedrooms for your growing family or a place for everyone to sit at the table in a larger dining room. A magical winter garden tastefully embellished for the holiday season or just because you finally create your vision of an awesome outdoor space. There are so many great reasons to move.

A better year
You may be moving because you want a better work-from-home space, or your motives are based on a new location for work or to live closer to your family. And getting it done in time to start the new year is arguably better than rushing around in time for Christmas. Starting the new year in a new property is like making a fresh start. And the impact the right home can have on your sensory and emotional well-being is extraordinary. Feeling like you are revitalised for all that the year brings in a happier home is a great way to live.

Navigating the property market
In a fragmented and increasingly complex property market, it’s vital that you find the right agent who truly understands your property’s market. Fluctuating prices and an air of insecurity are still in the minds of some homeowners, thanks to so many negative news stories that often overlook the positive aspects of today's market. The reality is that each home-moving story is unique. Agents' databases are filled with individuals who have a specific vision for where they want to live. Your home may be central to this. With an overall shortage of properties relative to high demand, pricing your property accurately has never been more critical.

Book your expert face-to-face valuation today.

Zoopla*



Good news for homemovers! Homebuyer numbers are increasing

 

In September this year, the number of buyers returning to the UK property market increased by 12% compared with August.* Whether you are wishing for snow this Christmas or a new home, the good news is that more buyers are returning to the UK property market. So, if you are thinking of moving, now is the time to start your search as more properties appear on the market.

The snowball effect creates more sellers
As more buyers get on the move, they bring with them a choice of interesting properties to the market. Many homeowners are downsizing as their families have flocked the nest. Some younger buyers, having stayed at home to save a deposit, have now moved out and bought their first properties. Finally, Mum and Dad have their chance to downsize or use some equity to buy a holiday home. This gives you the chance to find a property with a bit more room. More and more homes appear on the market as home movers exchange contracts.

Home movers are acclimatising to the new normal level of interest rates
Interest rates in the past have been far higher than those of today. And it’s no secret that in recent years we have been spoiled with super low rates. Buyers are now realising that rates today still represent a good deal. Affordability levels are still good. As home movers and households adjust and accept that their mortgage costs are a bit higher, many are choosing to carry on with their home moving plans.

Christmas home-moving flurry
Being in a new home in time for Christmas is a very appealing idea, and many movers are already well into their home-moving journey. More bedrooms for your growing family or a place for everyone to sit at the table in a larger dining room. A magical winter garden tastefully embellished for the holiday season or just because you finally create your vision of an awesome outdoor space. There are so many great reasons to move.

A better year
You may be moving because you want a better work-from-home space, or your motives are based on a new location for work or to live closer to your family. And getting it done in time to start the new year is arguably better than rushing around in time for Christmas. Starting the new year in a new property is like making a fresh start. And the impact the right home can have on your sensory and emotional well-being is extraordinary. Feeling like you are revitalised for all that the year brings in a happier home is a great way to live.

Navigating the property market
In a fragmented and increasingly complex property market, it’s vital that you find the right agent who truly understands your property’s market. Fluctuating prices and an air of insecurity are still in the minds of some homeowners, thanks to so many negative news stories that often overlook the positive aspects of today's market. The reality is that each home-moving story is unique. Agents' databases are filled with individuals who have a specific vision for where they want to live. Your home may be central to this. With an overall shortage of properties relative to high demand, pricing your property accurately has never been more critical.

Book your expert face-to-face valuation today.

Zoopla*



Applying for a mortgage? Here’s how to improve your chances


Perhaps it’s been a while since you moved, or you are a first-time buyer. Whatever situation you are in, if you are applying for a mortgage, you want to get your mortgage sorted so you can breathe a sigh of satisfaction, knowing that a major hurdle to home-buying has been cleared.

Take a look at your credit report
Having a good credit score is key to getting a mortgage. Make sure you are on the voting register. You may have a perfect credit history, but without it, you will fail. On that subject, make sure you pay any credit agreements you have on time. If there are some you can clear, perhaps this will increase your levels of affordability. Any credit cards that you don’t use could affect the amount you could borrow, so if you don’t need them and you have more than one, think about cancelling them.

The bigger your deposit, the better
Perhaps you are already living at home with parents or a relative and saving rapidly. It may not be ideal right now, but a bigger deposit will not only increase your chances of success but also reduce your monthly repayments. Then, when you finally get the keys to your very own home, your newfound freedom will feel even better.

Buy with your friend, partner, or family

Buying with your partner is an obvious choice for many, and moving to your own place is exciting as you furnish it and decorate it to the tastes of whoever has the final word! If you are not ready for such levels of commitment, then why not buy with a friend? Some lenders will allow you to buy with up to four people. Maybe you could pitch the idea to your parents as a property investment for them and move out more quickly!

Don’t change your job too often
If you are thinking of applying for a mortgage in the near future, changing your job is not a definite guarantee that you will not be successful. Having said that, your lender is looking for consistency. They want to see that you have been in employment for a decent amount of time, usually about three years, depending on the lender.

Get in touch with a mortgage advisor
A good mortgage advisor is worth every penny. Experts in understanding the market, they will have lots of tips and access to ways of buying your home. From improving your credit score to finding a tailored solution from the thousands of products that are available. If you are happy with your existing mortgage deal, you may decide to port your mortgage, which allows you to move with your existing mortgage. There are interest-only options for lower payments, guarantor mortgages, flexible mortgages so you can overpay or underpay, and buy-to-let options for investors. Offset mortgages allow you to link your savings to your mortgage by offsetting the value of your savings against the value of your mortgage amount. The right mortgage advisor can make a big difference in helping you get the keys to the home you want.

Thinking about moving home? Contact us to get started!



Tips on preparing your home for a perfect Christmas

 

Your perfect is different from that of the next person. So how you prepare for the Christmas holidays is your call, but there is nothing like mixing a bit of tradition with some fresh ideas to keep Christmas feeling as festive as possible.

Christmas greetings
Are you up for going all out and adorning the front of your home with an intricate arrangement of lights that can be seen from the stratosphere, or do you prefer to decorate with an air of subtlety? Whatever you decide, create that gushy feeling that makes passersby and guests feel welcome. It’s all about doing it your own way, choose a ribbon, a wreath or a singing snowman, let your imagination do all of the hard work for you.

Stock your cupboards
Christmas is an expensive time of year. Start stocking your cupboards now with items that have a long best-before date. Maybe you have already made your Christmas cake or ordered your pudding. Planning ahead can make for a more delicious Christmas. Making edible decorations like chocolate reindeer also helps! But you could always grace your front room with mince pies, garnish them with a bit of holly, and suddenly they too become edible decorations.

Add some authenticity
Maybe you would prefer to just blow up some balloons, or you are going to go for it by creating your own grotto out of wood. Somewhere in between is a good place to start. A bowl full of chestnuts, or get crafty and make your own baubles. If you need guidance, buy a DIY kit.

The scent of Christmas
With the aroma of great food mingled with the pines of a real Christmas tree and maybe a good punch—the scents of Christmas are everywhere. But if you want to enhance this and stretch it out in the buildup to the holidays, think about scented candles, scented sachets of soap, fragrance oils, or even infusing your bathroom with herbs!

The sounds of Christmas
Christmas songs are sometimes sources of contention. Some people love them, others do not! But there are other ways to add atmosphere to your home without involving carol singers. Talking reindeer or snowmen, will help create an atmosphere of magical Christmas memories, for all the family.

A wonderful outdoor area
A miniature Christmas tree placed near your outdoor dining area within reach of a characterful outdoor stove and nice lighting could even warm Scrooge this Christmas. Add a festive theme with holly placed under the pagoda or use it to simply complement outdoor candles. Hang nice LED lighting in case you love carol singers and want an exclusive performance from the comfort of your outdoor living area, with a nice glass of good punch.

Are you dreaming of getting the right home for Christmas? Contact us today.
 



It's been emotional! Learning to let go of your old home

 
It’s easy to become attached to a home that most likely made so many happy memories, and perhaps some that are not so good. Either way, the best way to move on in every sense of the word is to focus on the future. But if you find the entire process daunting, here are a few things you can do as a coping strategy.

Celebrate the past, but don’t dwell on it
Saying goodbye is important, and how you choose to do it is up to you. Maybe you are emotionally detached, and a simple walk around your home as you close the door for the final time will suffice. On the other hand, you may want to build up to this process over time, saying goodbye over a period of weeks. Savouring so many nice memories is important, but there will also be a big part of you that can’t wait to move. Especially if you are moving to a bigger and better home.

Keep yourself busy
This is the secret to moving on with most things in life, and moving home is no different. Write an action plan for moving. Break it down into categories. Include everything from moving day to things to do in your new home. Bring the vision of your new life to reality by starting new traditions. Think about the details of how you can make your new home the best version of itself while getting to know your home's new location. Begin the de-cluttering process of your current home now; it will reduce your stress levels significantly.

Accept that change is good
The ability to change is hard-wired into most of us and a natural part of life, so you will be more adept at coping with it than you realise. Embrace the exciting emotions that a new home brings by looking forward to the great memories you will make in the future. Your home will inspire so many positive feelings, from how it makes you feel to its improved energy efficiency or location. Look forward to your first sleep in your new home and allow the vision of your new outdoor space, bedrooms, or kitchen to take over.

Remember, your agent is human
Good estate agents help you understand the buying process. This makes your entire moving journey less hassle, so you can plan each step. Because of this, your friendly estate agent can be a great source of emotional support. Putting your mind at rest with a thorough understanding of your big move. And connecting you with good mortgage advisors and conveyancers, guiding you on asking and selling prices and preparing your home for sale, your estate agent is your rock when moving.

Conclusion
In today’s world, with increasing automation and the advent of artificial intelligence and online-only agents, it’s easy to forget the importance of the human element, which offers so much support. Moving home does not have to be complicated, even if we humans are!
Are you looking forward to saying hello to a new home? Get in touch today.



What do better mortgage deals mean for you?

 
With the arrival of sub 4% mortgage deals, banks are attempting to outdo each other by setting headline-grabbing rates. And with better deals on the horizon, with lower rates for those with smaller deposits, homemovers are starting to make a move.

Your property’s value will increase
As interest rates lower, demand for your home increases. Your home has become more affordable to buyers who need a mortgage to purchase it. A rejuvenated property market, which is enduring a shortage of homes, means your property's value increases. But as prices rise, you may have to borrow more, so it could be worth making an early move to get ahead of buyers returning to the market.

A quicker sale
With more buyers returning to the market, you are more likely to achieve a quicker sale. Let’s be honest: once you have decided to move and have found the right home, you want the entire process over and done quickly. Better mortgage deals mean more buyers are in a position to move. This also applies down the chain, meaning you are less likely to encounter delays.

An increase in certainty
The UK property market performed far better than many expected in 2023. In the aftermath of so many interest rate increases, the steadying of the base rate towards the end of last year came as a big relief to many homeowners and homemovers. Lowering interest rates and a positive outlook for the year ahead mean you can feel more confident as confidence in the market increases.

Lower mortgage payments and faster equity growth
Lower rates mean lower mortgage payments, with more of your payment contributing to the outstanding balance of your mortgage. This means you can build up equity far quicker. If you are planning on moving to your forever home in a few years, lower rates mean that you can move up the ladder more quickly. Financing home improvements also becomes more affordable.

There are other ways to save
Moving to a better home and making good investments has a hugely positive impact on your life. There are plenty of ways to make moving a viable financial option to counter slightly higher interest rates. If you can save on your commute, enjoy greater energy efficiency, have a better work-from-home space, and make your family happier, you will save money.

Your property story can begin
Are you a first-time buyer, downsizing, planning on retiring to a holiday home, or want to boost your pension while living in a more compact, energy-efficient property? Perhaps you love restoring and improving properties, like living in them for a few years, then moving on to the next project. Maybe you could be a fully-fledged buy-to-let investor?
 
Become the author of your moving success story by contacting us



February 2024 is bringing a fresh breeze of buyers and sellers

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

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

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

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

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

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



Your home insulation guide

 
Whether it's freezing cold or scorching hot outside, adequate insulation is essential for maintaining comfort inside your home while keeping energy bills to a minimum. Let's look at the impact of insulation, how you can insulate your home, and how it helps lower your energy expenditure.

The importance of good insulation
Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining energy efficiency and keeping warmth inside your home by reducing the exchange of heat between the outside and inside of your home. Good insulation helps to keep your home at a consistent temperature, preventing it from becoming too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter.

It also has other benefits, such as soundproofing your home and reducing the amount of moisture in your home to prevent damp.

The impacts of poor insulation
Inadequate levels of insulation can have a hugely detrimental impact on your home, as it can lead to unwanted temperature exchange through your walls, flooring, and roofing. It can cause inconsistent temperatures throughout different areas of your home, making it difficult to keep your home at a desirable overall temperature.

Poor insulation can also contribute to the growth of mould and mildew through a build-up of moisture, which could pose potential health risks to you and your loved ones.

Different ways to insulate your home

Draught-proofing
Blocking unwanted gaps around windows, doors, and floors can help keep the cold air out and the warm air in. Placing draught excluders against your doors and using sealant or filler to remove any gaps in walls and windows are good ways of preventing cold draughts rushing through your home.

Roof and loft insulation
The cheapest and easiest way of insulating your home is by installing loft insulation, which acts as a barrier to reduce heat loss by trapping air within layers of high-quality material such as mineral wool. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you could save between £260 and £475 a year by installing mineral wool insulation at a thickness of 270mm, depending on the type of property you live in.*

Underfloor insulation
Floor insulation forms a barrier that protects your home from the circulation of air beneath your property. This type of insulation is particularly effective in older homes that have suspended timber floors, compared to the concrete flooring commonly used in newer properties. Underfloor insulation can save you between £75 and £195 annually.*

Cavity wall insulation
The vast majority of homes built in the past 100 years have cavity walls, which are insulated by sealing the space between the inner and outer walls with cement. This type of insulation can save you somewhere between £145 and £520 per year.*

Impact on a home’s energy rating
Good insulation can make a huge difference on your home’s energy rating, as it acts as a thermal barrier to regulate heat transfer between the interior and the external environment, therefore reducing the demand for heating and cooling systems. By preventing draughts and keeping warm air inside your property, insulation helps to keep heating costs down in the cold winter months.

It is also useful for warmer climates, as it reduces the amount of energy needed to cool your home and keep it at a consistent temperature.

A home’s energy rating and insulation will be taken into account when a surveyor calculates the value of your property. Therefore, if you’re looking to sell your home, good insulation can help you achieve a higher sale price.

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
Cavity wall, loft, and roof insulation are all available under the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). To qualify for the scheme, your property must be in council tax categories A-D in England or A-E in Scotland and Wales and have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of D or lower.

Your local estate agent will be able to check your eligibility for the scheme and help you with your application.
 
Contact us today if you’re looking to move to a more energy-efficient home

Energy Saving Trust*



Fixer-upper vs. Move-in ready

 
Whether you’re on the market for your first home, or looking for an investment property, one of the key things to consider is: how much work are you willing to put in once you’ve been handed the keys?

If you’re on the fence between buying a fixer-upper or a move-in ready home, here are some pros and cons for both:

Fixer-uppers
A ‘fixer-upper’ is a property which requires thorough renovation and repairs before it can become a comfortable living space. Because of this, fixer-upper homes are generally sold for a much lower market value than homes which are ready to live in.

This type of home may be an ideal purchase for a first-time buyer or an investor, as they may be able to make a substantial profit by renovating and reselling.

Pros
  • Lower upfront costs: Fixer-uppers can command much lower asking prices than similar homes that are move-in ready. Those selling fixer-upper homes usually wish to achieve a fast sale, so you might be able to snag a good deal if you get your offer in quickly.
  • Personalisation and customisation: For some, the allure of a fixer-upper comes from the ability to use the home like a blank canvas and customise it to their exact liking.
  • Adding value: Transforming a fixer-upper is a great way to achieve a return on investment, as there is plenty of scope to add substantial value to the property. From replacing outdated features to improving the home’s aesthetics, you can potentially profit from a fixer-upper home when the time comes to sell.
Cons
  • Time: Time is our most valuable commodity, and renovating a home requires a lot of it. If you’re hoping to move in and get settled down quickly, a fixer-upper might not be for you.
  • Costs: While the initial savings can be enticing, remodelling a home might cost you more than you expected. Even if you have budgeted thoroughly, there may be some costs for repairs which you hadn’t planned for. It’s important to carefully consider your financial standing before investing in a home which needs serious restoration work.

Move-in ready homes
‘Move-in ready’ is a broad term as it can cover many degrees of readiness. But fundamentally, a move-in ready home requires little to no maintenance or repair before its next owners can move in. The homes have plenty of appeal, as they may have been recently renovated, and buyers may be able to unload their furniture and get settled in right away.

Pros
  • Convenience: One of the key advantages of move-in ready homes is the convenience they offer. Buyers can save time and effort as they don't need to deal with extensive renovations or repairs before moving in. This is particularly appealing to those with busy schedules or those who want to start enjoying their new home immediately.
  • Cost savings: While move-in ready homes may have a higher upfront cost, they can often save buyers money in the long run. The expenses associated with immediate repairs or renovations are avoided, preventing unexpected financial burdens.
  • Faster occupancy: The name itself implies that these homes are ready for move-in day. This can be advantageous for those who need to move quickly, whether due to job relocation or other personal circumstances.
Cons
  • Higher initial costs: Move-in ready homes often come with a higher price tag compared to fixer-upper properties. Buyers may pay a premium for the convenience of not having to invest time and money into renovations. This can limit the options available for those on a tight budget or looking for more affordable housing solutions.
  • Limited customisation: While move-in ready homes may be aesthetically pleasing, they often lack the level of customisation that some buyers desire. Some may find these homes restrictive, as major renovations may not be necessary but are also not easily accommodated.
  • Potential overlooked issues: Even though a home is labelled as move-in ready, there's still a risk of overlooked issues. Buyers should conduct thorough inspections, as cosmetic upgrades might mask underlying problems. When house-hunting, it's important to ensure that the home is not just visually appealing but structurally sound to avoid unexpected maintenance costs down the line.
Whether you’re looking for an investment property or your dream home, contact our expert team today



What do better mortgage deals mean for you?

With the arrival of sub 4% mortgage deals, banks are attempting to outdo each other by setting headline-grabbing rates....

Click here to read What do better mortgage deals mean for you?.



February 2024 is bringing a fresh breeze of buyers and sellers

With a greater sense of optimism in the air, lowering mortgage rates, and a compelling choice...

Click here to read February 2024 is bringing a fresh breeze of buyers and sellers.



Your home insulation guide

Whether it's freezing cold or scorching hot outside, adequate insulation is essential for maintaining comfort inside your home while keeping energy bills to a minimum.

Click here to read Your home insulation guide.



Fixer-upper vs. Move-in ready

Whether you’re on the market for your first home, or looking for an investment property, one of the key things to consider is...

Click here to read Fixer-upper vs. Move-in ready.