Monthly Archives: May 2024


290524 Why You Should Understand Your Buyer’s Position before Agreeing a Deal

Why You Should Understand Your Buyer’s Position before Agreeing a Deal

It’s an exciting moment when a buyer puts a good offer on the table.

After all your hard work to prepare your home for sale, it feels like everything is finally falling into place.

But before you agree a price in a rush of giddy delight, it’s important to ask a few questions – especially if more than one buyer is interested.

This is because you need to understand a buyer’s position to evaluate how good an offer really is.

While price is obviously … Continue Reading…


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Market Update – May 2024

We now approach the traditional summer period with the month of June normally being a good one for the housing market, however the announcement of the general election is a bit of a curve ball.

It is fair to say the general election date is far sooner than expected as the economy is still recovering and it was expected that the current government would have liked mortgage borrowers to have experienced lower interest rates and a feel-good factor before going to … Continue Reading…


270524 Protecting Your AREA Property Security Steps for Landlords

Protecting Your Property: Security Steps for Landlords

When summer arrives, the issue of property security becomes even more relevant for landlords.

The summer months provide more opportunity for thieves to take advantage of longer days, open windows and doors, and vacant properties.

As a landlord, you need to protect your investment, but it’s also good practice to help your tenants feel safe and secure.

Here are five relatively simple security steps landlords can take to safeguard their properties during summer.

Upgrade locks and secure entry points

As a landlord, it’s important to … Continue Reading…


220524 Understanding Freehold vs. Leasehold vs. Flying Freehold

Understanding Freehold vs. Leasehold vs. Flying Freehold

Understanding the various property tenures is helpful for homebuyers in making informed decisions.

In a world where jargon often replaces plain talking, this article demystifies the terms freehold, leasehold and flying freehold.

It highlights the differences and implications they have regarding property ownership.

Freehold

Freehold properties are the most straightforward type of ownership. Buying a freehold means you own the property and the land it stands on outright, without any time limit. It’s yours – forever, if that’s what you want. Freeholders have complete control … Continue Reading…


200524 How to Perfectly Price Your Rental Property

How to Perfectly Price Your Rental Property

Setting the correct rental price for your property is essential to attract the best tenants and maximise the return on your investment.

Too high, and you won’t get that all-important awareness and interest.

Too low, and you’ll be out of pocket.

Here are five key considerations every landlord should keep in mind when setting the rent for their rental property.

Market research: Before setting your rent, make sure you understand the local rental market in your area. Look at similar properties in terms of … Continue Reading…


150524 First-Time Buyers Facts and Figures from around the World

First-Time Buyers: Facts and Figures from around the World

Getting on the housing ladder in the UK is no easy feat, with property prices and inflation meaning it can take first-time buyers (FTBs) years to save the deposit for their first home.

As a result, the average age of an FTB in this country has risen to 34*. For context, it was 29 in 1981.

So, how does this compare to other countries? Are FTBs in Spain, South Africa or Switzerland older or younger**? Let’s take a look.

Switzerland

The land of luxury … Continue Reading…


130524 Tips for Tackling the Biggest Challenge Facing Landlords Today

Tips for Tackling the Biggest Challenge Facing Landlords Today

One issue, above all else, causes landlords sleepless nights. Can you guess what it is?

Could it be maintenance and repairs? Or maybe it’s worrying about the rent being paid on time?

If you answered one of the above, thanks for playing, but you’re mistaken.

The biggest challenge landlords currently face is abiding by government regulations.

In a recent survey*, 67.5% of landlords said complying with red tape was their most significant hurdle. (This figure was up from 39% the year before, a clear … Continue Reading…


080524 The Three Home Improvements That Impress Buyers the Most

The Three Home Improvements That Impress Buyers the Most

When it comes to home improvements, it’s wise to think carefully before you splash the cash.

Homes renovated to a high standard attract more buyer interest and sell more quickly.

However, not all refurbishment works will bring you the same rate of return.

Buyers tend to pay particular attention to the condition of specific areas of a property, so it’s best to invest your time and money in these places.

Here’s a guide to some of the best-value home improvement projects, including some tips … Continue Reading…


060535 A Landlord’s Guide to a Dispute-Free Garden

Landlord’s Guide to a Dispute-Free Garden

Gardens can boost a rental property’s appeal, often making it more attractive to potential tenants – especially during May, as spring is here and summer is around the corner.

But, as beneficial as they may be, gardens can also be a source of friction between landlords and tenants, particularly when it comes to maintenance responsibilities.

To skilfully swerve such disputes, landlords should adopt a proactive approach.

Here are five straightforward strategies to help keep your garden an asset, not a liability.

Simplify garden designs

Choose … Continue Reading…


010524 In or Out Should You Be Present When Buyers View Your Property

Property Viewings: Should Sellers Stay In or Go Out?

So, you’ve prepped and primped your home, and it’s been photographed looking its very best.

Now you’re ready for the next step in the selling process – viewings.

This can be a make-or-break moment, where buyers fall in love and make an offer on the spot or run a mile.

So how can sellers ensure viewings run smoothly and that nothing they do or say deters a potential buyer?

Aside from the obvious things, like keeping your home clean and clutter-free (with no dirty … Continue Reading…