What's happening this month?

Buy-to-Let still proving to be a sound investment

The buy-to-let market has had somewhat of a difficult time over the past few years due to changes in government legislation and taxation. Since July this year, however, the number of buy-to-let mortgages being approved has risen considerably and is proving that there is life in the market for those looking to invest.

With competitive mortgage rates available, especially if a larger deposit has been accrued, anybody who has the desire to become a landlord now has the opportunity to do so. A new report by HomeLet showing that the average rent around the UK has reached a record high of £970 per month demonstrates that the potential to reap rewards through buy-to-let is exceptional.

HomeLet data shows that rents have increased in every single region of the United Kingdom over the past twelve months, up to 3.5% greater than at the same point in 2018. For those looking to invest, this presents tremendous opportunity to be able to invest locally and see the benefits.

Biggest annual increases in average rents

Region	August 2018	August 2019	Annual Change
London	£1,632	£1,689	+3.5%
North West	£717	£741	+3.3%
South West	£826	£852	+3.1%

In terms of rental yields, we are also seeing record highs in terms of the average yield that landlords are reaping, with the average now reaching 4.5%, up from last year and the highest in three years. For those looking to maximise their yields, there is a growing trend towards Houses of Multiple Occupancy, or HMOS, as they tend to provide a yield approximately 20% higher than a typical rental property.

Which region provides the best rental yield?
North West 6.20%
Yorkshire & The Humber 5.90%
East Midlands 5.40%
Scotland 5.30%
West Midlands 5.10%
North East 5.10%
South West 4.40%
Wales 4.20%
East of England 4.10%
London 4.10%
South East 4.00%
National average 4.50%

Everything you need to know about the Bank of Mum and Dad

There are huge lenders in the mortgage market around the United Kingdom, with high-street names competing fiercely with one another for potential business. One of the largest current lenders may well surprise you, however, as rather than a large financial institution it is the bank of mum and dad which sits at 11th in the list of largest mortgage lenders in the UK.

Parents and family members are set to lend more than £6bn in 2019, which amounts to a higher amount in mortgage pay-outs than well-known brands such as the Co-Operative Bank and Skipton Building Society. With deposits becoming ever-increasingly difficult to amass, many people are now counting on their relatives to help them take that first step onto the property ladder; recent research from Legal & General and Cebr has found that nearly 20% of all property transactions are now aided by parents and grandparents.

Those lucky enough to be able to tap into this valuable resource will be aided predominantly by cash gifts, with some releasing the equity in their homes in order to help their children (16%).

Nigel Wilson, Group Chief Executive at Legal & General, says: “The Bank of Mum and Dad continues to be the ‘iceberg’ mortgage lender beneath the surface of our housing market – all but invisible yet exerting a massive influence, funding purchases across the country and helping people to defy the economics of affordability and realise their housing dreams.”

If you are thinking of using the bank of mum and dad, then there are a few considerations to take into account:

• Banks and building societies will accept a deposit, or part thereof, that has been gifted to you – some may require confirmation in writing that the money is indeed a true gift.

• If cash is gifted to you then this may be subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT) if the gift giver is deceased within seven years of the gift.

• Inheritance limits are £3,000 per year, and previous years’ allowances may be utilised before IHT comes into play. For example, two parents could gift £18,000 with no IHT due as long as they had not gifted anything in the previous three years.

• If the money is a loan, then this will need to be declared to your potential mortgage provider detailing repayments, interest, timescales and caveats.

Family Fun and Crafts

Friday 21st February

Join in with craft activities to create your own Antarctic adventure.

Click here to read Family Fun and Crafts.

Selling during the back to school season

One-third of homeowners choose to buy or sell in early autumn, making now the best time to put your house on the market.

With children returning to school, could a move be on the cards for you?

If you are selling this September, here are some of our top tips...

1) Have a clear-out

The back to school season can be a busy time, with one in four also choosing to switch jobs and careers during this month compared to the rest of the year.*

So, having a simple declutter of your belongings and items can create a blank slate for people coming to view your home.

2) Maximise your storage

Maximising your storage space is an easy way to keep your home tidy at a low cost, which may then mean you're required to do less work in between any viewings that take place.

3) Plan for viewings

Don’t let viewings catch you off guard! Have a checklist of everything you need to do before a potential buyer comes to view your home.

Having a set plan of action will help you keep a clear head and get things done amid the back-to-school chaos.

4) Improve your home's kerb appeal

Two-thirds of buyers stated that kerb appeal was a significant influencer in their property purchase.**

Some top tips for improving your home's aesthetics are hiding bins, cleaning your windows and decorating your front door.

Are you ready to move this September?

Contact our property professionals today for helpful advice and guidance.

*Job search website, Monster

**Homeowners Alliance

Could you benefit from repaying your mortgage early?

The average homeowner will be 57 before they’re able to fully repay their mortgage, so paying off the debt early is a desirable financial goal.*

What is there to consider if you want to pay off your mortgage early?

If you are thinking of repaying your mortgage, do your sums.

When will you finish repaying your mortgage and what will your financial situation be like then? It's important to consider your options and review them frequently.

Here are a few options to help you pay off your mortgage sooner:

1) Overpay whilst you can

Ensure you have enough money to keep you going for at least three months before paying off your mortgage, as this is a good way to judge if now is the right time to get rid of that debt.

Most mortgages won’t charge you for overpaying, however, it’s always worth checking.

2) Consider remortgaging

Interest rates are at record low levels and there is more product choice for buyers than ever before. If there is a better deal on offer, it might be a good idea to remortgage whilst you can.

Remortgaging can help you reduce the size of your loan and avoid less favourable mortgage rates that will extend your mortgage term.

3) Reduce your mortgage term

Sticking with your current mortgage plan could leave you overpaying if your financial position has changed since you first applied for your mortgage.

If you can now afford higher repayments, you should consider reducing your term. By doing this and increasing your monthly payments, it’s a guaranteed way to pay off your mortgage sooner.

If you’re looking for expert advice regarding buying and selling, contact us today.

*Hargreaves Lansdown

Will working from home be your new norm?

Last year, the number of adults who worked from home inevitably increased to 37% over lockdown.*

Despite many people agreeing that working from home makes them feel isolated, 85% of homeworking adults now favour a "hybrid" approach of both home and office working for the future.*

Whilst job adverts that included home working have increased dramatically to three times the amount seen last year.*

Are you currently working from home?

Here are our top tips on how you can create a healthy working environment.

1. Keep moving

When we work from home, we tend to be a lot less active than in an office environment.

Exercise is the key to staying in good health, so a lunchtime walk has many benefits and will keep you productive for the rest of the day.

2. Look after your eyes

Looking at a computer screen for hours can be taxing on your eyes.

Aim to follow the '20/20/20 rule'. That means that every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds, this should help your eyes recover from the strain.

3. Create boundaries

It can be tempting to work longer hours from home but remember to have boundaries between work and home life.

Having a home office can be beneficial as a designated workspace that you can leave at the end of the day.

If you don’t have a home office, why not consider picking a space in your home that will be your professional sanctuary.

4. Put a plant on your desk

Plants can play a major role in creating a more peaceful, yet engaging workspace.

5. Natural light is important

Natural light is good for your eyes and mind.

If your home office doesn’t have any windows, make sure you have plenty of lamps producing light.

6. Invest in a decent coffee machine!

Standing up and giving yourself breaks from your computer screen is important.

Getting a coffee can be a well-earned break from work and give you some extra energy to get through the day.

With career changes higher in September than any other month of the year, are you looking to relocate? Contact us today to see our latest listings in your area.**

*National Office for Statistics

**Job search website, Monster

Winter maintenance suggestions to safeguard your property

We are currently in the midst of winter and the cold weather is now in full force.

Therefore, you need to be informed on how to protect your home against any potential seasonal damage, which will reduce unnecessary spending.

A few years ago, there were a record number of burst pipes in the UK, resulting in over £194 million worth of insurance payouts.*

There are a variety of contributing factors that could lead to expensive repair bills at this time of the year.

To help you cut these costs, we've collated advice every property owner should be aware of.

1) Protect your pipes

A burst pipe can cause up to £4,000 in damages.

Pipe insulation, which can be installed yourself, costs next to nothing. It can be used under sinks, on any pipes running along exterior walls and in attics.

Basements are also important to pay close attention to, as this is where 37% of all burst pipes occur. Insulating your water pipes will prevent them from freezing or bursting, which can be a huge inconvenience for households over the holidays.

2) Insulate your loft space

Investing money into insulating your loft will save you a small fortune in the long run, with average annual savings as follows:**

– £225 on your energy bill per year for a detached house
– £135 on your energy bill per year for a semi-detached house
– £120 on your energy bill per year for a mid-terrace house

Alongside this financial incentive, insulating your attic will mean you're directing heat within your property to the living areas, where it needs to be.

3) Clean out and inspect your gutters

Your property's gutters are there to prevent rainwater from stagnating on your roof.

Regular maintenance and checks will prevent blockages from forming. If a problem forms, you'll start to notice rainwater running down the side of your house and may even spot discoloured walls inside.

Gutters can become clogged with leaves, moss, twigs or even bird nests.

It is very important that the water can be drained, otherwise damp and mould can form, leading to a much more serious issue for you to tackle!

4) Wrap up your hot water tanks

Perhaps an unusual one, but getting your hands on a British Standard Jacket for your hot water cylinder can protect your home and save money too.

The Energy Saving Trust recommends insulation to be 25mm to 80mm thick.

With yearly savings of up to £150, it's estimated that payback on one of these insulation jackets would take just two months.

5) Bleed your radiators

Rather than do this once a year, homeowners and landlords should routinely check their radiators to release trapped air, as this will ensure they're working at maximum capacity whenever you decide to turn the heating on.

6) Close off your chimney

A huge loss of heat can arise from unused fireplaces.

If you have a chimney that you do not use, and you would like to board it up, try a chimney balloon.

They can cost as little as £30 and they are incredibly easy to install, with the balloons keeping the cold air out by blocking any drafts.

For more tips on protecting your home this season, talk to our property professionals.

*Association of British Insurers (ABI)
**Energy Saving Trust

Prepare your property for a February sale

Time to pack up the decorations, Christmas is over and 2022 is here!

If you’re preparing to sell your property this year, then you might be unsure about what you need to do beforehand.

Don’t fret, we’re here with a list of top tips to help get you ready to show off your property.

Create a good first impression

Remember that the first impressions of your home are essential during a sale.

With that in mind, making sure your home’s exterior is visually appealing and attractive will be your biggest priority in preparation for listing.

We’d strongly recommend that you take the following into consideration:

Clean your windows, it’ll be easy to notice if you haven’t!
Give your front door a lick of paint to freshen it up and make your entrance feel more welcoming, you can easily do this by replacing the doormat if yours is looking a little tired.
Tidy up your hall by removing any post.
Remove weeds from your path and tidy your garden.
Make space on your driveway for visitors to park.

Upping your presentation

It is also important to ensure your home’s interior is presented in its best possible light, as this will provide buyers with a vital opportunity to picture how they will fit into the living space.

A simple suggestion, but one which can have a massive impact, is to declutter. Removing large bulky items from view will help maximise your home’s space.
Let in the light by keeping the curtains open, windows clean and any natural sources of light clear to give your home as bright a feel as possible.
Make sure all rooms are heated prior to viewings, even those you don’t use often, to provide your home with a cosy feel during the winter months.
Keep your bathroom and toilets clean, free of mould and tidy, and make sure your toiletries are kept to a minimum.

Time-consuming as it may seem, keeping your home organised and welcoming will put you in good stead for when the viewings start.

Remember; visitors need to be able to imagine themselves in your home!

For further guidance on selling your home, contact our expert agents today.

How to make the most of a small kitchen

Having gone through multiple lockdowns, the most desirable factor that's attracting attention from buyers and tenants right now is a property with plenty of space.

Compared to houses built in the 1960s, new homes are now designed with smaller kitchens; dropping by 2.77 metres on average across the UK.*

As a central room, it's really important that you're maximising value from your kitchen.

You want your kitchen to be practical and attractive, which requires innovative design ideas and creative storage solutions.

To help you accomplish your renovations this year, we've brought you our top suggestions for making a small kitchen feel spacious and inviting.

Take off the doors

You would be surprised at how much space traditional swinging doors take up.

If it opens outwards, the kitchen door might not be as much of a problem, but if it swings into the kitchen, you could be losing up to a square metre of usable space.

Go for a light colour scheme

As an effective, quick fix to make a small kitchen feel bigger, opt for a neutral colour scheme.

Neutral does not mean just sticking to shades of white and cream, why not try white patterned tiles and marble countertops with a light grey cabinet?

This will reflect the light, making it feel much more spacious than you would find with a darker colour palette.

Install a small breakfast bar

If there is no room for a dining table in your kitchen, consider sacrificing a few cabinets to squeeze in a small breakfast bar.

Or you could even consider using a wide shelf on the wall for an alternative table space – the stools can be tucked underneath to avoid being in the way.

Work your way up the wall

When surface and floor space is limited, it is a good hack to use up wall space too.

Install shelves, rods and notice boards to remove the utensils and clutter from your workspaces.

Adding plants and more lighting will also brighten up the room, creating the illusion of space.

Make use of the space around your fridge and oven

Even if you only have a small space between the wall and your fridge or oven, you could think about adding a hidden rolling cupboard; perfect for storing cans, spices and dry food.

Invest in an over-the-sink cutting board

For kitchens that are tight on surface space, an over-the-sink cutting board is a good way to take advantage of the whole area available. It is also a practical way to wash your fruit and veg without making a mess.

Take advantage of the end of counter space

Rather than keeping this free, take full advantage.

Why not install a bathroom rod to hang your saucepans on? This will free up another cupboard for other things. If they are nice pans, it also adds to the aesthetic of your homely kitchen!

Find a new home for your washing machine

The kitchen is an obvious place for the washing machine but in other European countries, you are more likely to find them in the bathroom.

If you are stuck for space, why not relocate your laundry appliances somewhere else in your home, perhaps the bathroom or a cupboard under the stairs.

Looking for a more spacious home? Browse our available properties.

*Source: LABC Warrant

One in five could be looking to buy this year

If you’re thinking of selling your home, you’ll be pleased to know that home buyer demand was reportedly up 35% at the end of January, compared to the same time last year. *

According to figures published on the Property Reporter website, in February, an independent survey of over 2,000 adults in the UK found that 18% intend to purchase a new home this year, increasing to 34% when looking specifically at respondents aged 18-34. *

The pandemic has influenced the features people look for when home hunting. The move to remote working means 43% of those who said in the survey that they were planning to buy a property this year, will be looking to buy in a different area to where they currently live, and the ongoing ‘race for space’ means competition remains high for homes with gardens and home offices. *

If you’re thinking of listing your home for sale while demand is high, get in touch today for a free, no-obligation valuation.

*Property Reporter

EXCLUSIVE FROM iDADA: Styling your rental property on a budget

Rental properties are intended to appeal to the broadest possible audience, to rent quickly for the owner. It may therefore be challenging to think of ways to personalise your newly rented property to ensure that it feels like your home.

This inspirational iDADA guide works with you to show you how you can achieve a comfortable, stylish and highly personal home.

Colour

Colour is such an intensely personal expression of your design character. In general, lighter colours reflect light, are easy to live with and show off the architecture of a home beautifully.

That said, within the palette of neutrals and whites, if used in combination, there is no need for your interior to ever be bland. Think about what features you want to emphasise and which ones you would rather have fade into the background. As always and particularly regarding the use of colour, ensure that your landlord or letting agents are happy for you to proceed.

Display

A room without any display of personal life such as photographs, drawings, mementos, objects and such like, can feel a little ‘soul-less’ rather like a long stay in a hotel – enjoyable but not ‘home’. Remember that you are in a rental property and cannot just bang holes in the wall!

Kitchens and bathrooms

In a rental property, the kitchen and bathroom are the most challenging rooms to personalise due to their ‘fitted-ness’. However, some things are achievable, effective and cost-efficient.

Just follow the golden rule... Don’t, Move, Anything, Major!

By that we mean don’t even think of moving any pipework, toilets, sinks, baths, washbasins, shower inflow and outlets (a new shower head though is easily achievable) and don’t move any electrics and certainly not by yourself. Electricity and water do not mix!

Ask your landlord if, for example, you wish to move a heated towel rail and, even better, ask him for the number of his trusted tradesmen.

Soft furnishings

‘Soft’ furnishings are the textiles that can add personality, warmth, colour, texture and a transformation in the acoustics of a room, softening and dampening sounds and adding a layer of sensory comfort.

They are perfect for adding personality to a rental home and, of course, can all be taken with you when you move, to be redistributed throughout your new home. Without any soft furnishings at all, a room can be quite uncomfortable, as anyone who has eaten on a tiled-floored, hard-seated, bare-windowed restaurant can testify. As one disgruntled diner put it: “The noise dear, The noise!”.

Are you considering selling this spring? Book your valuation here.

These new measures could help you as a seller

Did you know that new regulations for the property industry will soon affect sellers?

The good news is that these upcoming changes will help you attract the attention of more informed (and therefore more serious) buyers.

But what are these changes, and when do they come into force? In a bid to promote openness and increase efficiency, the National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team will require all sales listings to include specific details to help potential buyers better assess if a home is right for them from the outset.

From the end of May, the new rules will be implemented in three phases. The first set of required information will include material details such as council tax bands and rates, tenure conditions, and the asking price.

The freehold or leasehold status will also be included in this bracket, covering lease length and ground rent, if applicable. Further down the line, sellers or their estate agents will have to specify any non-standard features, restrictive covenants, and information regarding flood risk and utilities.

These new changes are very likely to help sellers attract committed buyers, thereby reducing the chance of a sale falling through later down the line.

It also means that buyers will have more time to tackle any issues straight away, speeding up the journey to completion.

If you’re thinking of selling, we can advise you on your next steps. Just contact us to discuss the upcoming changes and get a valuation.

How to speed up the purchase of your ideal home

Buying a home is a very exciting time, so it’s in everyone’s interest to speed up the process. There are specific steps you can take to steer things in the right direction!

Know your stuff

A house is likely to be the biggest purchase you'll ever make, which means certain legalities are involved. Getting your head around the key terms will help you communicate easily with estate agents and solicitors.

Who you work with is also very important. Ask friends and family to recommend trusted property professionals and removal companies to get your ducks in a row before you begin.

Organise your finances

Once you feel confident about progressing, it’s time to weigh up your options. Should you sell before you put in an offer? While you’ll be a chain-free buyer, you’ll have to factor in storage costs and rent while looking for your ideal home.

It’s also a good idea to talk to a mortgage expert to arrange an agreement in principle.

Communicate clearly

So, you’re ready to make an offer. If the seller accepts, arrange a date for exchanging contracts and communicate your requirements to your solicitor clearly, so everyone stays on the same page. On that note, make sure you respond quickly to any requests to prevent holdups.

Of course, you will need a trusted partner with expert local knowledge to help you sell your current home or buy a new one. That’s where we come in.

You can contact us to discuss your options, or head over to our website to explore our current properties.

Helping our landlords navigate the changing regulations

Being a landlord is a rewarding way to secure your income while providing quality housing for tenants. However, according to a recent survey, 24% of landlords feel overwhelmed keeping up with changing regulations.

The main reasons landlords felt this way included finding the rules confusing and a lack of access to legal advice. For example, 16% didn’t know about licencing scheme changes, 12% were unaware of the new requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and 10% had missed the news regarding proposals for minimum EPC standards. *

Keeping up-to-date with every announcement and making the necessary changes to your properties can feel like a full-time job. This has a knock-on effect on landlords’ mental health, with over half of those surveyed admitting they’d taken time off work.

So, what’s the easiest way to enjoy the benefits of being a landlord without the stress?

Other than carrying out time-consuming research, reading trade publications, and enlisting the advice of a lawyer, the survey showed that almost a third have a letting agent to help. 20% also believe employing a managing agent would make life easier. *

It’s certainly true that working in partnership with a trusted local agent can help you simplify the process of letting your property, especially if you manage a portfolio.

Whatever your situation and long-term plans, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about our services and arrange a lettings valuation.

*DirectLine

Demand creates opportunities for new landlords

As soaring house prices continue to push up the average buying age, more and more people are looking to rent for longer. This squeeze on supply has resulted in the average rent price rising throughout the UK. In London, rents have risen to £1,757 – 11.8% higher than in February 2021. *

The imbalance between supply and demand means that the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks is now applying pressure on the Government to increase rental stock across the UK.

Now is the perfect time for new landlords to enter the market and make a good return while providing homes to those who need them.

Have you had a lettings valuation in the past? You may be surprised by how much your potential rental is worth now.

If you’ve got an unoccupied property on your hands, contact us to learn more about our bespoke services and get an instant lettings valuation.

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Avoid making these mistakes when selling your home

Selling your home can be a daunting process, from the valuation to the exchanging of contracts. If you are selling your property for the first time, you will want to avoid these mistakes. *

Avoid unflattering photos

With many potential buyers looking for homes online, it is incredibly important to make sure your house looks its best when the photographer arrives.

Ensure all clutter is packed away and all spaces have been thoroughly cleaned to ensure that viewers can focus on the house.

You will want to showcase your property’s best attributes to make it stand out from the crowd. Make good use of natural light to create the best possible first impression.

Problems inside your home

If there are any problems with the property, they will be uncovered during the inspection process. Therefore, you are left with two options:

Fix the problem ahead of time. This will allow you to acquire your property’s full value.
Price your home accordingly, taking the problem into account.

We would always recommend discussing any known issues with your appointed estate agent. This way, you can ensure that you are making the right decision!

Not thoroughly preparing for viewings

Failing to prepare your property for viewings could put buyers off purchasing your home. You want the viewer to imagine themselves living in the house. This means tidying up before viewings, eliminating unpleasant odours, and keeping a neutral tone in your house.

Of course, one of the most important steps is picking the right estate agent. If you have any questions when preparing your home for sale, do not hesitate to contact us.

*Investopedia

Summer Afternoon Racing

Join us on Thursday 21st July for a thrilling afternoon of summer flat racing. A brilliant day out with friends, family and colleagues!

Click here to read Summer Afternoon Racing .

Norwich Comedy Club

Side splitting weekly live comedy bringing you a mix of the best comedians on the circuit and the best up and coming local comedians. We're lucky enough to have last minute TV stars come down to try...

Friday 19th August

Click here to read Norwich Comedy Club .

Are we going to experience a crash in the housing market?

With house prices seeming to be coasting along a rising trajectory, it’s no wonder many are starting to assume that what goes up must come down. But should we expect the bottom to fall out of the housing market anytime soon?

A recent assessment by Zoopla showed that house prices and sale numbers are expected to continue slowing in 2022, partly due to the cost of living. However, high buyer demand is keeping the value of a typical UK house above the 5-year price rise average.

Lifestyle changes brought about by the pandemic explain some of this stability, with flexible working arrangements, early retirement, and changing priorities still encouraging people to move. Additionally, rising interest rates will prompt many approaching the end of a generous fixed term to lock in a lower mortgage rate by moving now.

Stricter rules around lending have also strengthened the price bubble, putting the market in a different position than when we last saw a crash during the 2008 financial crisis.

This is all excellent news for sellers, but is this slow-but-steady rise reflected in other areas than traditionally strong markets such as London and the South East?

Zoopla’s House Price Index does show that house values are evening up across the UK, with the biggest gains most apparent at the lower end of the market. Therefore, homeowners in hotspots like Wales, the South West, and the Midlands are also benefitting from the moving trends that have developed over the past few years.

Right now, the average UK house price stands at £256,600. However, certain cities and regions are seeing steeper increases, so booking a valuation is the only way to know exactly how much your home is worth.

Get in touch today to arrange a no-obligation valuation.

*Date based on Zoopla’s August 2022 House Price Index

Norfolk Open Studios

Hundreds of artists open their studio doors across Norfolk to share their creative processes. Explore the county in early autumn through studio visits, art trails, events and demonstrations.

September 24th - October 9th

Click here to read Norfolk Open Studios .

Veganuary Street Food Carnival 2023 - Jan 15th

This Veganuary, join us & feel the hustle & bustle of India's 'mela' (carnival) that bring along the most remarkable food stalls & great fun!

Location : Namaste Village 131-139 Queens Road Norwich NR1 3PN

Click here to read Veganuary Street Food Carnival 2023 - Jan 15th.

How to add value to your home

How to add value to your home

Adding value to your home is straightforward. Making money often involves spending money when it comes to investments, and your home is no different! Whether you are looking for a quick flip or a total revamp, it’s important to make the right choices.

Below, we discuss the best ways to add real value to your home...

A few ground rules

Do not overspend! Make sure your changes are impactful and necessary. If a refurbishment adds to the quality of your living space, then do it, just don’t get carried away.

Be resourceful, shop around conduct plenty of research. Don’t just sign on the dotted line in a branded store, consider independent tradespeople to carry out the work, they may do a better job for less.

Kitchen or bathroom?

If the kitchen is in good shape but the bathroom is crying out to be replaced, then you may get more for your money by choosing a bathroom renovation.

It could be that you need to do both the kitchen and the bathroom, arguably the two most impactful, important and costly rooms in the house.

A new bathroom can add up to 5% to the value of your house while a new kitchen can add up to 15%, do the maths and see what you can reasonably spend. Then, enjoy the quality of new tiles, colours, materials, and cabinets with a new space-altering layout.

Loft conversions

Loft conversion can add between 10 – 20% to the value of your home, but be warned this is not an easy task. Firstly, check if you can convert your loft, beam heights are critical here, so you will need to get a reputable builder to give a good appraisal. There is lots of red tape involved in creating a new bedroom, office or bathroom in your loft. The good news is that this is often much cheaper than adding an extension to your property.

Garden and outdoor living spaces

A nice garden with outdoor living space is almost like adding another room to your house. Be careful, a few shrubs and trees with maybe some decking and already you have spent thousands. Perhaps not as guaranteed to add the same levels of added value to your home as other areas but still worth doing and will complement the entire living experience of your home. Bifold doors removing the traditional boundaries between an indoor and outdoor living will enhance this further.

Energy efficiency

A new heating system is not a massive investment and will save money on energy bills and easily add more than the cost of replacing the system, while not putting potential buyers off with the prospect of replacing the boiler.

Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular. It’s an attractive proposition, particularly in today’s climate; to be self-sufficient when it comes to producing electricity. In some cases, you may even be able to supply the local electricity board and get paid! Lower your carbon footprint or consider running your car to gain more savings.

The little things you can do

Sand and paint internal and external doors and skirting.

Check out your floorboards, in older houses often these can be sanded and varnished and will look beautiful on completion.

If you can’t afford to replace tiles and cabinets, consider painting them.

Improve or replace lighting and light fittings.

Sort any damp problems.

Replace carpets or old laminate.

Bad bathroom grouting often brings the value of a home down far more than the relatively low cost of getting it sorted.

Check the guttering.

Replace windows and doors.

Paint and decorate the internal walls and remember, if you are selling soon, use safe, neutral colours.

It’s all good

Whatever you decide to do, all these measures, and any you think of on the way, will add value to your home in more ways than one!

Just finished your home refurbishment, wondering what it’s now worth? Get a valuation or browse our properties for your next move.

Property searches often spike in January

Having enjoyed time with loved ones, lots of food and drink, films, and festivities, the time to start searching for a new home now begins. January is traditionally an off-peak time for property sales, but perhaps for this reason, more and more potential buyers start searching in the hope of finding a bargain.

Housing markets differ from county to county and from postcode to postcode. Some regions enjoy constant demand. If there is an area you are interested in, there is a chance that January after the lull of Christmas can give you a chance of securing your ideal home before the rush of summer!

There are some good deals to be had

The secret is out, and it’s not just buyers seeking a great deal. Sellers are realising that getting an early start is a good way to get ahead of the competition before the summer rush. Getting an offer accepted for a little less than you anticipated is always a nice feeling, and it will give you a little more budget for decorating or renovations.

Houses re-entering the market in 2023
Many predict that house prices will fall during 2023. With this in mind, many sellers have been busy preparing their homes for the market in 2022, knowing they were too busy relaxing over Christmas.

A considered approach
Though the housing market is still dealing with the hike in interest rates, the low supply of houses on the market compared with the number of buyers means the market remains buoyant. With interest rates stabilising, many buyers are taking the long-term view that house prices will begin to climb again in the next five years. The slowdown also gives buyers and sellers a little more time to take a more considered approach when making their choices. After all, if you are selling, you are most likely moving, which also makes you a buyer.

A nice way to relax
Christmas might be over, but it’s still cold outside. A nice way to spend an evening is to sit by the fire and do a property search online. You have access to everything from simple starter homes to your dream home. So enjoy your property search and make it a pleasant experience for you and your partner. Inspiration may come from all sources in the hunt for your new home, and it will find you as it leaps from the screen as soon as you set eyes upon it!

New homes
There are many new and exciting developments underway and due for completion this year. Buyers have a good choice of options with low deposits and energy-efficient homes, whether a property is finished, or you want to pre-reserve it. As these homes sell, they also help stabilise the market. This is good news for home movers, as it helps reduce surges in demand and rapidly inflated prices.

Don’t forget to get in touch
With so many potential buyers searching for their new home in January, the sooner your property goes online the better, then buyers can start looking. If you have prepared your house well, or even if that is something you have chosen not to do, the more people that view it, the more likely you are to sell.

Searching for a new home? Browse our properties today

Is your New Year'sResolution torenovate your home?

Another New Year, a new beginning. If you've been thinking about renovating your home for a while, you can finally make your house dreams come true now that the festivities are behind you.

Outdoor living

Spring will soon arrive, and your garden and emphasis on outdoor living can finally begin to take shape. You want the best outdoor living space you can create; you've read all the magazines, watched all the programmes, and your mind is teeming with visions. Try adding an eating area, an outdoor working space, a pond, an orchard, and some sleepers, and see what else happens along the way!

Working from home space

If you would rather develop an indoor workspace, now is your time to get cracking. With more people working from home, inspiration for this trend can be found anywhere. Often, it’s about making it yours with individual touches while creating a comfortable place to work.

Going green

Perhaps you would like to increase the energy-efficiency of your home. Installing solar panels is a great way to do your part for the environment while saving some money. In some cases, you may even be able to sell the electricity you produce to your local energy supplier. This could mean your solar panels will pay for themselves, but typically the only cost after installation is for annual servicing. If you work from home, you might consider installing insulation to reduce your ever-increasing heating bills.

Creating extra living space

You could create another bedroom, a dwelling space for an elderly relative, or a new family. Alternatively, removing walls to modernise or create extra space is still challenging and will remain so in 2023, given the cost of raw materials and the shortage of good tradespeople available to carry out this work. So careful planning is essential, or it might not happen until next year!

Bathrooms

January is a great time to get an awesome deal on a new bathroom, despite the waiting lists to get it fitted with large, branded suppliers or individual bathroom fitters. There is nothing to stop you from buying and booking now, and with some luck, the design of your choice could become a reality in time for summer, or even spring!

A new kitchen

Buying a new kitchen in January leads to huge discounts and when completed, adds real value to the value of your home. As the central hub for any home, bright spaces and light colours are on-trend, as are natural material surfaces matched with metallics. Seamlessness and fluidity between rooms with open-plan living or blending outdoor areas with the heart of any home are still on the to-do list of many this year.

An exciting year

Whatever you decide to do in 2023, whether you are renovating then selling or buying a newly renovated property, there is no doubt that there are some interesting and exciting ideas waiting to be implemented and already in place in many homes.

Searching for your perfect new home? Browse our properties today.

Norwich Community Choir

Tuesday 25th February

A friendly local choir for anyone who loves singing.

Click here to read Norwich Community Choir .

Our guide on 'gazumping' and how to avoid it happening to you.

If you’re looking for a new home, or are looking for your first home, then “gazumping” may be a term that you aren’t particularly familiar with. Essentially, gazumping is when you have had an offer accepted by a seller, and are in the midst of the buying process, when another buyer comes along and offers a higher price, effectively stealing (or gazumping) the sale.

Over the period between January 2016 and October 2018, analysis by TwentyCi found that 16% of buyers were gazumped. In the current property market, where demand for properties is high, gazumping continues to be prevalent, and the research found that Sheffield is the area with the highest level – with 35% of buyers out-bid at the last moment.

Phil Spencer, TV presenter and co-founder of Move iQ, said: “For anyone who thought gazumping vanished with the runaway price rises of a few years ago, our findings will come as a reality check.

“Gazumping is alive and well, and still causing heartache for tens of thousands of buyers across England and Wales.

“Britain’s fragmented property market is throwing up huge regional extremes. In hotspots where prices are still rising fast, sellers can be tempted to go back on their word to a buyer if they get a better offer elsewhere.

“Meanwhile, in slow markets, the lack of homes for sale can lead sellers to leave would-be buyers in the lurch if they get a last-minute offer from someone else.

If you want to avoid the spectre of being gazumped, then having all of your buying processes in place before making an offer will help. These involve having a mortgage in principle in place, a conveyancing solicitor and a surveyor in mind; all will help to avoid long periods of waiting which offer the opportunity to others to make a higher offer. When you make your offer on a property, you could also ask as a condition of the offer that the property be taken off the market immediately which will then protect you from other prospective offers.

Britain’s Gazumping Hotspots

Sheffield – 35%
Madistone – 32%
Cambridge – 28%
Birmingham – 26%
Manchester – 25%

The importance of realistic asking prices

Recent analysis from comparison site Zoopla has shown the benefits that are reaped when a property is priced correctly rather than over-ambitiously, with overvalued properties taking up to two months longer to sell.

In addition to a longer sale period for properties which are overvalued, the research also found that by dropping the price in order to attract buyers, these properties also achieve an average asking price of £12,000 less than their more accurately valued counterparts.

“Our research highlights the importance of accurate pricing and reveals the areas where there is the healthiest alignment between a seller’s expectations and what a buyer is willing to pay for a property,” said Charlie Bryant, managing director of Zoopla.

“When a home is valued too ambitiously at the start, or simply overpriced, the sales process can be derailed. Homes can languish on the market for much longer than they should and the vendor loses control of the sale, often leading to price reductions,” he pointed out.

“Agents in Salford, Driffield and Dronfield stood out in our report in aligning their vendor expectations with the realities of the market, and what a potential buyer is willing to pay for that particular house, in that particular location.

“The English and Welsh average sold price, which amounts to 96.3% of the asking price, indicates a market realism, and moreover a market that is transacting good values, despite wider macro-economic and political concerns,” he added.

This research shows the important part which an estate agent plays in those initial meetings, with an over-valuation extremely attractive at first, but damaging in the long-run. If you are thinking of selling your property, then complete your own research so that you can have open and honest conversations with your agent in order to list at a realistic value.

Tips on selling as the days get shorter

As the days get shorter, it is more important than ever to present your property in an appealing manner if you are going to attract potential buyers. With that in mind, we have put together some season-specific advice to help you find a buyer…

Let in the light
Never is it more important in the year to keep your rooms bright and airy than during the change between seasons. This is because of how quickly the levels of light fluctuate, turning your lovely property into a less-appealing version of itself, with dark rooms and corners. To avoid this, use uplighters to brighten up your rooms during viewings – this type of lighting can be easily placed into corners or areas which may appear darker. Furthermore, blinds and curtains should be drawn back to allow plenty of natural light and don’t forget to turn any lights on in cupboards etc. to create multiple sources of brightness.

Keep paths clear
During this time of year, leaves may start to fall from the trees leaving debris around your property. Ensure that your kerb appeal is kept to its maximum by clearing away any errand plants and debris from your property, especially on the path to your front door where potential buyers will most certainly be surveying. If you have the time, consider tidying up your flower beds and removing and shrubbery which may not be looking quite as lovely as during the summer months.

Clean, clean and clean again
Of course, presenting your property in a clean and tidy state is a given, but it’s also worth considering any other areas that you can spruce up in order to maximise the available light. Clean your windows regularly to ensure that they sparkle for prospective buyers and let in as much natural light as possible (this will also help with the aforementioned kerb appeal). Clean your front door so that it looks at its best – many of us will have white UPVC doors to match double glazed windows, and if this is the case then use some bleach to rejuvenate it.

Increase the pressure
You want your property to seem cosy and inviting, and the drop in temperature gives you the perfect chance to make your home comfortable and welcoming. Turn the thermostat up so that during viewings your property is warm and incentivises viewers to really take their time looking around before they brave the cold weather once more. If you have a fireplace, think about lighting it up or at the very least light some candles.

Government announces reforms to planning and Help-to-Buy

Housing secretary James Brokenshire has recently unveiled his plans to introduce new quality controls on housebuilders, whilst also implementing new legislation to try to prevent developers from selling houses on a leasehold basis through Help-to-Buy.

“We have long recognised that we have a responsibility to confront unfairness in the leasehold market,” commented Brokenshire. “Last year we consulted on proposals including the leasehold house ban and ground rent reduction.

“Today I can confirm we will go ahead with our original plan to reduce ground rents on future leases to zero, as opposed to a cap of £10 per year.

“And we will legislate to ensure that in the future save for the most exceptional circumstances all new house will be sold on a freehold basis. We are committed to taking bold action to reform the sector and will be pressing ahead as soon as parliamentary time allows helping us delivery our promise to make the home buying and selling process quicker, cheaper and easier.”

The housing secretary’s plans aim to help future homeowners in purchasing their first properties in a more timely and cheaper manner. These plans go hand-in-hand with the government’s pledge to deliver 300,000 new homes a year by 2020. According to the plans, if a buyer is sold a leasehold home then they will be able to get their freehold at no extra cost.

The Help-to-Buy scheme has been a flagship system that has been fundamental in first-time buyers entering the market since April 2013. From 2013 to 2018 the number of new-build property sales has increased from 61,537 to 104,245 – which can be largely apportioned to Help-to-Buy, with 38% of all new-build sales supported by the scheme.

Addams Family Musical

Thursday 27 February - Saturday 29th February

At the Jane Austen College, Norwich

Click here to read Addams Family Musical.