Things Are Looking Up in the Property Market – Here’s Why

Good news: the latest data on buyer demand shows that the number of property hunters out in force is up by 14%*.

So, what’s driving this increased demand? And what does it mean if you plan to buy or sell in 2024?

Let’s take a look.

Interest rates

For a good chunk of 2023, interest rates were high (relative to recent years), and the possibility loomed that they could go even higher.

Many buyers, uncertain about where it would all end, were spooked and put … Continue Reading…

A Mum’s Eye View of Selling and Buying a Family Home

Here’s the penultimate part of our series of articles on a family’s views on selling up and moving home.

This family of five sold and moved last year, but their experiences (and emotions) are timeless.

We’ve shared the perspectives of a six-year-old, a ‘tweenager’ and a teenager, and now it’s mum’s turn.

The perfect home

“The journey to a new home began excitedly, especially when we found the ‘one’ – the property we loved and wanted.”

An emotional offer

“I felt joy and disbelief when … Continue Reading…

January Market Review

The first month of the year has been a total contrast to the to the last quarter of 2023. The housing market staggered to an end last year after being battered continuously by rising interest rates, affordability issues, slipping house prices and a lack of confidence.

The turn of the year has been a breath of fresh air, so far there is more optimism which has been mainly fuelled by the major mortgage lenders cutting their rates considerably. All of a … Continue Reading…

Bright Ideas: Boost Your Mood and Your Home’s Appeal with Natural Light

Who doesn’t love it when the sun’s out?

Well, apart from vampires, mushrooms and raincoat makers.

But seriously, natural light, especially sunlight, has significant mood-enhancing effects on our minds and homes.

For homeowners and residents, understanding how to harness this natural marvel in home design isn’t just about aesthetics but also a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Let’s discover more.

Why sunshine is significant: The health benefits of natural light

Natural light is a natural mood enhancer. Exposure to sunlight increases the brain’s release of a … Continue Reading…

Top Tips to Help You Save for a Mortgage Deposit

One of the biggest challenges first-time buyers (FTBs) face is getting a deposit together.

Saving a large sum of cash while covering all your living expenses during a cost-of-living crisis is no mean feat.

But having a good plan and clear goals can make this daunting task more achievable.

Here are some tips to help you save for a mortgage deposit.

Number crunch

You’ll need a deposit that’s at least 5% of the value of the property you wish to buy. However, some FTBs aim … Continue Reading…

Inside the Buyer’s Mind: Emotional Triggers in the Home-Buying Process

We’re estate agents, not mind magicians like Derren Brown, but recently, we’ve been delving into the psychological aspects of home buying.

It’s fascinating stuff.

For sellers, it can offer invaluable insights, helping them better understand how they (and their estate agent) can achieve the best possible price for their home.

Buying a home is not just a financial transaction; it’s a deeply emotional journey influenced by many psychological factors.

Let’s investigate some of these.

The emotional connection

At the heart of every home purchase is an … Continue Reading…

From Blue to Brew: How a Simple Cuppa Can Lift Our Spirits

Blue Monday, often labelled as the most challenging day of the year, falls on the third Monday of January.

But what exactly makes this day particularly blue?

Well, a travel company originally coined the name, and Blue Monday is thought to be the day when the festive cheer has faded, resolutions have hit the rocks, and these cold, dark days seem never-ending.

But, it’s not all doom, gloom and incoming credit card bills (another reason Blue Monday is so depressing), thanks to the … Continue Reading…

Small Movers, Big Thoughts – A Child’s Eye View of Moving Home

If you’re thinking about moving house in 2024, there’s a lot to mull over, especially if you have children to consider.

We know how important (and valuable) it is to listen to your kids when you’re selling up and moving on – they always have lots of thoughts and feelings about it.

We spoke with a six-year-old, Olivia, about her family’s recent move.

Her insights are fascinating and help us see things from a kid’s point of view.

1) New friends

“I was a bit … Continue Reading…

Turning Over a New Leaf: Five Realistic Resolutions for 2024

The striking of Big Ben at midnight on 1st January ushers in a new year and inspires many to commit to positive life changes.

Yeah, we know for many people, the New Year, New You theme has you switching off immediately.

But for many others, the dawn of 2024 marks a chance for a fresh start as we resolve to change our lives.

Yet, maintaining these resolutions can be a challenge.

To help, here’s how to set realistic and fulfilling goals if that’s what … Continue Reading…

New Year, New Home: How to Set Property Goals for 2024

If moving could be on the cards for you next year, now’s the time to set some goals to help turn your property dreams into a reality.

Perhaps you’re feeling squeezed in your current home and want more room. Or maybe you’re an empty nester rattling around a place that’s too big for your needs and costly to heat.

Whatever your motivation, it’s important to remember that selling and buying property requires planning and organisation and can sometimes take longer than expected.

Setting … Continue Reading…