June Market Update

The first six months of the year have certainly been tougher for the housing market than expected, as we began the year there was optimism that the market would be more buoyant than it has proved to be.

The general feedback we hear from both buyers and sellers relates to lack of confidence, mainly in the economy, government and issues in the wider world.  It feels that first time buyers are short in supply, reluctant to enter the market for all … Continue Reading…

Warning: Don’t Let Rogue Tenants Outsmart You With AI

Tech experts have warned that fraudsters are using Artificial Intelligence to create fake documents. Here’s what landlords need to know.

The news is currently awash with stories about the marvels of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Unfortunately, however, there is a downside to this technological tsunami – one that will concern landlords.

Some of the earliest adopters of AI are fraudsters who are utilising its capabilities for illegitimate purposes.

A recent article by Forbes raised the alarm. It cited cybersecurity experts who say criminals are using … Continue Reading…

New EPC Rules Now in Force: What Homeowners Need to Know

New rules on preparing Energy Performance Certificates, or EPCs, have just come into operation. Here’s what you need to know about EPCs going forward.

What is an EPC?

An EPC is an Energy Performance Certificate.

EPCs show you how energy efficient a property is using a rating from A (most efficient, lower energy costs) to G (least efficient, higher energy running costs).

EPCs take into account factors such as how well your property is insulated, double glazing, the type of heating and even whether … Continue Reading…

How to Plan for a Stress-free Check-out (and Avoid Moving Out Day Drama)

With a bit of planning, moving out of your rental can be smooth-running and stress-free. Here’s how.

The date is set; it’s all agreed.

You’ve spoken to your landlord or letting agent and know exactly when you’ll be vacating your current rental and moving to new digs.

So what happens next?

Well, if you like to fly by the seat of your pants, probably not a lot.

You’ll put your feet up and (mistakenly) assume that you can pull everything together at the last minute.

As … Continue Reading…

Your Mortgage Interest Rate – How Is It Set?

The Bank of England will announce its latest decision on interest rates later this week. But have you ever wondered who decides what your mortgage interest rate will be? Here we’ll explain how it all works.

The Bank Rate vs the mortgage rate

The first important thing to know is the difference between the BankRate (also known as the base rate) and your mortgage rate. They’re two different things.

The Bank Rate is set by the Bank of England (BoE).

Your mortgage rate is … Continue Reading…

The Important Demographic Shift Landlords Need to Know About

Old stereotypes about tenants are going out the window as the number of renters aged over 55 continues to grow.

When you think of a ‘typical renter’, what comes to mind?

A young professional, a university student – or how about someone in their 50s, 60s or 70s?

The latter demographic – older renters – is an often overlooked but growing phenomenon in the rental market.

In the past decade, the number of rental properties headed by someone aged between 55 and 64 grew … Continue Reading…

Eight (Property-Related) Things to Consider If You’re Expecting a New Baby

If you’re expecting a new baby, then big congrats from us. You certainly have lots to think about, including whether to move home or stay where you are. Here are our tips to help you decide.

Do you have enough space?

You might need an extra bedroom or two, and outdoor space really comes into its own when you have kids.

Now could be the ideal time to upsize and look for that perfect family house.

Sooner might be better than later

Moving with babies … Continue Reading…

Summer Maintenance Checklist for Savvy Landlords

Take advantage of the summer weather and get ahead with maintenance on your rental property.

Summer isn’t just the perfect time for lazy picnics in the park and trips to the seaside.

The long, sunny days also make it an ideal opportunity for landlords to undertake important maintenance and safety checks.

So don’t wait until winter to discover that there’s an issue with your roof, boiler or gutters.

Be proactive and follow this checklist.

Roof and gutter inspection

Inspect the roof for problems such as broken … Continue Reading…

What is Material Information in Home Selling – and Why It Really Matters

When you’re selling your property, material information is one of the many things you need to know about. Here’s an explanation of what material information is and how important new rules will affect you.

What is material information in a property sale?

Material information is basic information about a house or flat that prospective buyers need to know.

Material information includes, among other things: the price, number and type of rooms, utility information, Council Tax band, any flood risks, details of parking and … Continue Reading…

This is Personal: Key Frustrations of Renters Revealed

What do tenants really want in a rental? The answer is surprisingly personal.

When tenants feel happy in a rental, they’re more likely to stay put and look after the property.

For landlords, this can mean a long-running, trouble-free tenancy (and who doesn’t want that?).

So what elevates a rental from being a roof over one’s head to a home?

A recent survey* of 2,000 tenants gives us an insight. It looked at renters’ attitudes to the interior living spaces of where they live.

Meeting … Continue Reading…