Why Now, More Than Ever, You Need an Expert Estate Agent
Remember those post-lockdown days when selling a property was as easy as putting it on a property portal and waiting for the phone to ring off the hook?
Those days are behind us.
The selling market has become increasingly challenging, demanding more than just a ‘For Sale’ sign outside and that property portal listing.
Today, selling a home in Wellingborough, Irthlingborough or Rushden requires skill, expertise, hard work and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing landscape and financial climate.
The good news is if … Continue Reading…
Richard James wins award at The ESTAS, the most prestigious awards in the UK property sector
The Richard James branches in Wellingborough & Irthlingborough received the Best in Postcode Award for sales and the Wellingborough branch also won the Bronze Regional Award for sales in the East Midlands at the prestigious ESTAS Customer Service Awards 2023 sponsored by Coadjute, the biggest awards in the UK property industry.
The winners were announced at the largest event in the property industry at the Grosvenor House in London and hosted by the country’s favourite TV property presenter Phil Spencer in … Continue Reading…
The Landlord, the Tenant and the Insurance: A Real-Life Warning
For landlords in Wellingborough, Irthlingborough and Rushden, having the right insurance coverage is not just a box to tick. It’s an essential safeguard for your investments.
But simply having insurance is not enough; understanding the policy’s specific requirements and declaring everything accurately is crucial.
In the following cautionary tale, we’ll explore a real-life incident involving a landlord who learned this lesson the hard way.
The names and details have been changed, but the lessons remain valuable for all landlords.
The story
A diligent landlord, let’s call … Continue Reading…
Don’t Fall for These Valuation Myths
In this quick read, we delve into the importance of accurate valuations – and how to price your property with precision.
Don’t be tricked into high listing prices
The saying “stick it on high and wait for offers” is a common myth that doesn’t align with current market trends. A listing will gain the most attention within the first 48 hours of going live. If priced too high, prospective buyers will ignore it, and it may be viewed as an unworthy purchase. … Continue Reading…
Is Your Rental Being Used for Criminal Activity? Here’s What to Look for
It’s every landlord’s worst nightmare: you discover the people you thought were trusted tenants are actually crooks using your property for illegal activity.
As a result, you face hefty repair bills, loss of income and a battle with your insurer. You may also find yourself at the centre of a police investigation.
Now, this is a worst-case scenario; most tenants are law-abiding, so there’s no need to panic.
But it’s still worth being on your guard for the signs that something isn’t quite … Continue Reading…
Five Property-Hunting Tips for Homebuyers
Buying a home is a huge decision – possibly one of the biggest you’ll make in your lifetime (no pressure then).
And to ensure you make a wise choice that suits your needs now and into the future, it pays to give the process a bit of thought before you start arranging viewings.
Here are five property-hunting tips that could save you time and money.
Do your homework
Once you’ve identified where you want to live, it’s essential to gain a realistic understanding of … Continue Reading…
Market Update: What’s Happening in the Private Rental Sector
After a challenging 12 months for the economy, how is the private rental sector faring, and what lies ahead for buy-to-let landlords?
In this market analysis, we look at some facts and figures to give you an accurate update on the private rental sector.
Demand
Demand for rentals is running hot. It’s up 3% on 2022 levels and a whopping 42% higher than in 20191. Reasons for this include first-time buyers struggling to get on the property ladder (an issue made worse by … Continue Reading…
The Advantages of Selling Your Home in Autumn
If you’re considering listing your property for sale, we have some good news.
Traditionally, there’s a surge in serious buyers coming to the market in autumn after the summer lull – so you’ve timed your move wisely.
But what’s the psychology driving property hunters at this time of year? And how can you, as a seller, capitalise on buyers’ motivations to ensure you secure the best deal for your property? Let’s find out.
A new start
When summer ends, many people view the shift … Continue Reading…
Trustworthy Tradespeople: A Landlord’s Guide to Stress-Free Property Maintenance
It’s up there with late rents, messy tenants and broken boilers on a landlord’s Headache-ometer.
What are we talking about?
Finding (and keeping) tradespeople you can trust to look after any property maintenance or issues landlords need to get sorted.
In this article, we share five tried, tested and trustworthy tips on how to find the very best and swerve the unreliable rest.
Tip #1: Know your needs
Understanding what you require is the first step. Is it a leaky tap or a major renovation? … Continue Reading…
Market Comment
Last weeks Bank of England interest rate freeze has brought some much needed optimism to the housing market with some lenders now offering five year fixed rate term mortgages lower than the base rate.
We sincerely hope this is the turning point and maybe interest rates will now stabilise for a period to allow confidence to be re-stored. The summer and early autumn periods have been difficult, more properties are coming on the market than being sold, resulting in buyers having … Continue Reading…