From Air Con to Shade Gardens: How Homes Are Adapting to a Changing Climate

Not so long ago, air conditioning in a British home was considered a bit extravagant. Something for hotels, maybe. Or offices. Not for a three-bed semi in our neck of the woods, perhaps.

Things have changed. Summers are hotter. Winters are wetter. And homeowners across the UK are quietly starting to adapt.

Here are five ways the changing climate is already reshaping how people think about their homes.

Air conditioning is no longer a luxury

Sales of home air conditioning units have risen sharply … Continue Reading…

Home Styles from Around the World (Cup)

As the World Cup captures the attention of football fans around the globe, most conversations naturally focus on players, managers and matches.

But there is another fascinating side to the countries taking part.

Their homes.

One of the joys of travelling is discovering how differently people live around the world. Climate, culture, history and geography all influence the design of homes, creating some wonderfully distinctive property styles.

So, while the football takes centre stage, let’s take a quick property tour of some of the … Continue Reading…

How to Choose the Right Conveyancer and Speed Your Sale or Purchase

Whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both at the same time, choosing the right conveyancer can make a big difference to how smoothly your move progresses.

A good conveyancer helps keep things moving.

A poor one can cause delays, frustration and unnecessary stress.

Here are our tips to find a good one:

Start looking early. Don’t wait until you’ve accepted an offer or had one accepted.

Ask for recommendations from people you trust, including your estate agent.

Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), … Continue Reading…

What Some Agents Don’t Want to Tell You About Proof of Funds

Big congrats. You’re in the market to buy a new home. Here’s what you need to know about proof of funds and when you really need it.

What is proof of funds?

Proof of funds is some evidence, ideally in writing, that you can afford to buy the house or flat you’ve got your eye on.

What proof is normally accepted?

These are usually fine, although there are no concrete rules:

* A mortgage offer in principle (or MIP) from your bank or building society.

* … Continue Reading…

From Love Rats to Rogue Buyers: Why the Right Agent is Your Best Defence

You might think that estate agents just sell houses. But there’s much more to it than that.

When you’re selling your home, a good estate agent will look out for your interests every step of the way.

A recent story in the press reminded us just how important it is to have a real duty of care to our customers.

Estate agents in Cambridge smelt a rat when a lady approached them to sell her home, then told them she was moving to … Continue Reading…

January Market Update

The first month of the year has gone by in a flash and the normal busy New Year start to housing market has begun. We are experiencing very high volumes of valuation appointments and viewings, but a far lower percentage of these appointments have resulted into actual business. Sometimes it does take time for people to make definite decisions so we are hopeful the momentum will carry into February and see more confirmed sales and new property listings.

The uncertain last … Continue Reading…

August Market Update

It’s been a tough summer for the housing market with little improvement since the Bank of England interest rate reduction in early August. It seems further rate reductions are required to encourage more buyers, particularly first-time buyers to enter the market. Chains are not being generated whilst buyers stand on the side lines.

It doesn’t feel like people are fearful of buying a property, it is more a case that they are still concerned about the economy and world events which … Continue Reading…

Three Easy-to-Do New Year’s Resolutions with a Difference

If you want to reset or refresh your life in the year ahead, why not make some property resolutions?

New Year’s resolutions like losing weight or joining the gym are so last year. This year, why not do it differently? Make some New Year’s resolutions for your home.

Here are a few to put on your list:

Resolution No. 1: Brighten up your life – brighten up your home

Now the Christmas decorations are due to come down (or maybe already have), it’s a … Continue Reading…

Christmas Toy Appeal 2024

For the past two decades, Jeanette, as Mother Christmas has been delivering joy to Northamptonshire’s most disadvantaged children.

Jeanette, who grew up in care, knows the joy a brand new gift can bring a child who feels unloved, neglected or forgotten. She has tirelessly worked since 2002 to bring joy to these disadvantaged children. She is asking for your help with the annual Christmas gift appeal by donating presents to be passed on to local children who are in need this … Continue Reading…