Many people are on fixed-rate mortgages right now, and with the current rise in the base rate, it’s a good thing because it means your mortgage will not increase. But what if you want to move now and take advantage of the huge choice of inspiring homes available, and your mortgage deal is coming to an end?

Why another increase in the base rate?
The Bank of England raises the base interest rate to curb inflation. Inflation is the increase in the cost of goods and services, or the cost of living. The idea is that an increase in interest rates means more people will save instead of spending, which reduces inflation as there is less demand for goods and services. The rate of inflation is still way short of the Bank of England’s 2% target, but the bank expects inflation to fall to 5% by the end of this year.* There are a few reasons for this. Wholesale energy prices have fallen, and the price of imported goods is expected to fall as production issues are resolved and there is less demand for goods and services in the UK.

Here are a few things you can do now:
Interest rates may be a little on the high side now, so if you take out a mortgage now, there is nothing to stop you from changing your deal in a couple of years when rates are more favourable. In the meantime, here are a few options for you to consider:

• The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme: extended until the end of December 2023, this government-backed scheme has helped over 24,000 households get on the property ladder.** Its aim is to help people with a 5% deposit, and it was launched in April 2021. Aimed at first-time buyers, it’s similar to the government’s Help to Buy scheme, which ended earlier this year. So, if you want to take advantage of it, you need to be quick.
• 35-year mortgage deals: increasing the term of your mortgage could bring down the cost of your monthly mortgage payments. You may pay more interest because you are taking longer to pay for the home you want, but a property that may have been out of reach may suddenly be in your grasp.
• 100% mortgages: saving your deposit is often the biggest challenge to getting a footing on the property ladder. With the return of 100% mortgages, you no longer have this hurdle, and that will save you a lot of time, meaning you can start paying off your mortgage sooner rather than later.
• Interest only mortgages: another option to consider is an interest only mortgage, which could lead to much lower payments. If you have a lot of equity in your home, this could stand you in good stead when it comes to buying the home you want now.
• Green mortgages: many mortgage lenders now offer more competitive mortgage interest rates for greener, more energy-efficient homes. This, combined with lower energy bills, means that you could save significantly on your monthly outgoings. This means that the EPC rating of your home has never been more important.
• Consider porting your mortgage: porting allows you to move home with your existing mortgage. So, if you are happy with the terms of your current deal and it’s not about to end any time soon, then this could be a cost-saving solution. You may be able to borrow more, as many high-street lenders offer top-up mortgages. Speaking with your broker is important, as some lenders’ rules may differ.
• There is always a way: it could be that you are in the fortunate position of not needing to borrow or are on a fixed-rate interest deal. With the huge number of mortgage deals available and inspiring choices in properties, it’s worth talking to your agent if you are determined to make your move now.

 

Browse our website if you are looking for the right home with the best possible team to guide you in any way we can.

 

Bank of England*
GOV.UK**

 

In June, average new seller asking prices fell by £82 (-0.0%).* The summer property market always heats up and then takes a little sidestep as the holiday season kicks in. However, the average price of a property coming to the market jumped in May by +1.8%, which was higher than expected.* This is yet another sign the summer property market is performing well, and now is still a good time to choose the home you want. But how does this act as a breather and benefit the market?

Buyer demand
During the first two weeks in June, buyer demand was 6% higher than the same period in 2019’s pre-pandemic market.* So if you are thinking about putting your home on the market, now is a great time to do it. Prices are still strong, and your property will have increased rapidly and significantly in value over the past few years, so you will achieve a great price.

The property market takes care of itself
It’s not always healthy for asking prices to constantly grow month after month. The summer property market is hot enough, and it’s better for it to be stable rather than overheat. A little splash of modesty reassures the market and simply brings it back to where it should be if the market gets ahead of itself.

The property market takes care of you
The market has had a lot of challenges, yet it remains resilient. As it slows in pace, this creates a much more predictable environment. This means sudden changes are unlikely, meaning you will not get caught out when achieving a good selling and asking price when you are in between homes.

Better negotiating power
When the market pauses and it’s time to make an offer, you have a better chance of getting well-calculated offers accepted. Your agent will know the market inside and out and can advise you on an up-to-the-minute pricing strategy.

Does the price really matter?
Price and affordability are very important when considering which home to buy, particularly if you are taking out a mortgage. The value of property increases and decreases slightly in the short term but always rises significantly in the long term. So in many ways, it’s about affordability, not property price rises.

Can you put a price on happiness?
Finding the right home that suits your needs and desires is important. You will most likely spend many years of your life in your new home. Your property is more than bricks and mortar or an investment; it’s a living, breathing part of the family.

The law of averages
You are not a number, and neither is your home. Each person’s home is as unique as they are. It could be that you surpass all your property expectations. Whether this is from achieving a great asking price or simply finding a home that fulfils your dreams for a lot less than you imagined. As the market stands, it’s not about making quick money but rather buying an awesome property and making the most of it.

 

Browse our properties to view the homes you could be missing out on.

 

Rightmove*

 

The early summer months are traditionally a busy period for the UK property market. It’s a gorgeous time of year to view an abundance of beautiful properties. Many people are on the move. While it’s still a hive of activity with a huge choice of homes, the property market takes a little summer siesta as homeowners take a holiday. This gives you a chance to make your move. But don’t be fooled into thinking it will last for long, so if you want to take advantage of it, you need to be quick.

View your ideal home from the beach
Sometimes getting away from it all can help bring about clarity of mind, which is very useful when you are making big decisions. Perhaps the beach or poolside is the perfect place to peruse your potential properties. And a good time to discuss your big move with your partner while you are away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Enjoy quieter roads to your new home
With schools closed for the summer, the roads become quieter, and you can drive to viewings with less stress. This means you can relax a little more and take a bit more time to enjoy your viewings. With an increased sense of calm, talk to your agent, who will expertly guide you through your potential new home and anything that helps you with your home move.

Leave your agent to sell your home while you take a holiday
Hop on a plane, boat, or if you’re jumping in the car to drive to your holiday, whatever you are doing if you have made the decision to sell, leave it with your agent and enjoy your holiday. Perhaps by the time you return, your house will be sold.

Make an offer with less competition
With fewer people around, you may be able to open the door to making an offer below the asking price and getting it accepted before others have even viewed the property in question.

It’s the perfect moving season
With more family members to assist your big move and longer, warmer days to enjoy once you are settled in, the summer is perhaps the best time of year to move. And you may be able to save some money on home removal costs with more hands to help. If you hire a removal company, you may find it easier to find the right help.

Enjoy your new home
When you have finally moved into your new home, you may still have time to make the most of it during the warmer months of the year, when utility bills are a little lower. Any outdoor improvements, from weeding the garden to adding to your outdoor spaces and simple maintenance, can become a joy rather than a chore.

 

Take advantage of the summer holidays and find the home you love. Browse our properties.

 

Rightmove*

 

Preparing your home so that you can create priceless happy memories during the summer months ensures all members of the family are free to roam and play in a safe and fun environment. It also reduces stress levels when younger members of the family spend more time at home and can become a rowdy bunch when not at school. And if, like many people, you are considering moving to a better home, keeping it in order will help you achieve your moving goals. So, here are a few tips to help you make life easier.

Create some space
A change is as good as a rest, and moving and rearranging the furniture in your home to make it safer for your little ones to play will also showcase your indoor spaces for potential buyers. It may also give you some ideas on how to make better use of the rooms in your home while clearing out any no longer needed or tired furniture and other items.

Clean and de-clutter
It’s incredible and sometimes hard to believe how much space the little things in life take up. From bottles to utensils on kitchen worktops—things that you want to be out of reach of curious children—to old mail and the never-played-with-any-more toys. Cleaning is something you will be doing a lot of at this time of year, so why not go to town and clear out the closets and give everything a good clean? This will make it easier to maintain levels of hygiene, and cleaning up after the kids will be much easier. Your home will also look and feel more appealing during viewings.

Create a list of activities
By being organised, you can plan your day to fit around viewings. This will help prevent boredom for you and your family! It also gives you the means to plan your day and break different activities into manageable chunks, giving you all something to look forward to.

Sort your outdoor spaces
These are hugely important to buyers, and they need to be safe with no sharp edges for your buyer’s family as well as yours. Creating a perfectly amenable family dining area will give you a great place to enjoy happy alfresco memories. Outdoor spaces should naturally create a seamless flow from the indoors to the outdoors. If your home is very much a family home, perhaps a tree house could mean the new owners bought two homes for the price of one.

Make the most of your garden
There is little chance the children will want to help you these days! But if they do, what a bonus! That said, even if you are not a keen gardener, you could inspire younger members of the family with interesting flowers or fruit trees. Weeding and lawn cutting are a must to make the most of your garden’s appearance, but no prizes for guessing who will get that responsibility.

Will all this help you sell your home?
Absolutely; it’s all about achieving your asking price. And the numbers in property are big, so every little thing you do adds up to make a big difference.

 

Get in touch to see how we can help your family create a thousand wonderful memories by finding your perfect house.

 

 

 

 

It’s worth talking to your agent this August as the housing market is in good shape for many reasons. So, whether you are on holiday or looking for a holiday home to buy, downsizing or moving to something better, here are a few good reasons to do so.

Every home is different
The location of your home is important, as is the property type. First-time buyer-type homes, for example, have been selling very well. But with all that said, your individual home stands for a lot too. Every home has its own personality and unique features that make it desirable to a buyer. And the chances are, if your home is in any way attractive to certain buyers, they will not be alone.

Demand for your home is strong
Buyer demand is 3% higher than it was in 2019.* It’s completely unfair to compare these figures to the unsustainable levels during the pandemic. But every cloud has a silver lining, and much of that rapidly gained equity will still be in your home. This means that if there is a crash, you are still in a good place.

Your situation is unique
The number of homeowners who own their homes outright in the UK stands at 35%, while the number of homeowners with mortgages stands at 30%.** If you are one of the majority that does not have a mortgage, you may be less apprehensive about making a move now in the face of fluctuating interest rates.

The long-term view looks good
In the long term, house prices increase, and if you are concerned about the short-term fluctuations in price, they will be absorbed by the long-term increase in the value of your home.

How much time have you invested in your property?
Many homeowners in the UK who buy a home will live in it for well over ten years. So, if you bought your home before the pandemic, you have a double layer of accumulated equity to fall back on. Many people are in this situation, and this, combined with good demand, sures up the property market.

Home movers are on holiday
With so many people enjoying their holidays at this time of year, the market may lose a bit of momentum. So often, these changes in price can come about because of seasonality. Now is a good time to get out and have a good look at the home you may want to move into. There is a lot of choice, and with the market being less frantic, you may have more flexibility when it’s time to make an offer.

Conclusion
So, what does this price change mean? Not a lot, and with years of equity, you are in a good place even if there is a sudden drop in prices. But as things stand, prices are steadily declining only slightly, which means you will not get caught out in the middle of your move. After all, you want to live in the home you want; you are not playing the stock exchange.

Contact us today to see how far your money could go towards buying your property dream

 

Rightmove*
English Housing Survey**

 

 

Maximising Your Home’s Value Before Selling in 2025

As the property market evolves, preparing your home for sale is more important than ever to secure the best price. Whether you’re looking to downsize, upsize, or relocate, small changes can make a big difference in how much your home sells for in 2025. Here are some top tips to help you maximise your home’s value before listing.

1. Curb Appeal
   First impressions matter. Enhancing the exterior of your home with simple upgrades like fresh paint, well-maintained landscaping, or a new front door can significantly boost its appeal. Clean pathways, trimmed hedges, and colourful plants can make your property stand out and attract more buyers.

2. Declutter and Depersonalise
   A clutter-free, neutral space allows potential buyers to imagine themselves living there. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that might make the space feel cramped or too specific to your style. Cleanliness is key—give everything a deep clean to make the home feel fresh and inviting.

3. Modernise Key Areas
   Kitchens and bathrooms are among the most important rooms for buyers. Simple updates like new taps, fresh countertops, or a modern backsplash can go a long way. You don’t have to undergo full renovations—small changes can still create a more appealing, contemporary feel.

4. Energy Efficiency
   Energy-efficient homes are in high demand. Consider upgrading insulation, switching to energy-efficient lighting, or installing smart thermostats. Buyers will appreciate lower running costs and the environmental benefits of a more sustainable home.

5. Neutral Decor and Fresh Paint
   If your home’s interior feels dated, a fresh coat of neutral paint can completely transform it. Neutral tones appeal to a wider range of buyers and create a calm, inviting atmosphere that helps rooms appear larger and brighter.

6. Stage Your Home
   Home staging can make a huge difference in how your property is perceived. Arrange furniture to highlight the home’s best features, and consider adding stylish yet simple décor to make rooms feel more inviting.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to securing the best price for your home in 2025. With just a few smart investments, you can increase your property’s appeal and stand out in the competitive market.

 

Book a valuation to discover your options

 

 

Buy-to-Let vs. Buy-to-Sell: Which Investment Strategy Works Best?

When it comes to property investment, two strategies often come up for consideration: Buy-to-Let and Buy-to-Sell. Both can be profitable, but they come with their own sets of risks and rewards. Understanding the differences between these approaches is essential for making the right decision based on your financial goals, time commitment, and risk tolerance.

Buy-to-Let: Long-Term Rental Income

The Buy-to-Let strategy involves purchasing a property with the intention of renting it out to tenants. Investors typically rely on the steady rental income to provide cash flow while also hoping for long-term capital growth in the property's value.

Pros:

• Steady Cash Flow: Rental income can provide a regular, passive income stream, helping cover mortgage payments and generate profits.

• Long-Term Growth: Over time, property values in desirable areas tend to increase, offering potential for capital appreciation in the long run.

• Tax Benefits: Landlords can deduct expenses such as mortgage interest, repairs, and management fees, reducing the taxable amount of rental income.

Cons:

• Property Management: Being a landlord involves ongoing responsibilities like maintenance, tenant management, and potential vacancies.

• Market Fluctuations: Rent prices and property values can be affected by broader economic conditions, such as interest rates or regional housing demand.

Buy-to-Sell: Short-Term Profit from Flipping

The Buy-to-Sell strategy involves purchasing a property, often below market value, renovating or improving it, and then selling it at a higher price for a short-term profit. This strategy is sometimes referred to as "property flipping."

Pros:

• Quick Returns: If done correctly, flipping properties can result in large, one-time profits in a relatively short amount of time.

• Less Long-Term Commitment: Unlike Buy-to-Let, you don't need to manage tenants or deal with long-term maintenance issues once the property is sold.

• Market Flexibility: Investors can target properties that are undervalued or in areas expected to see short-term growth, capitalising on emerging trends or developments.

Cons:

• High Risk: The property market can be unpredictable. Unexpected renovation costs, market downturns, or difficulties in selling can result in losses.

• Capital Intensive: The Buy-to-Sell strategy often requires a significant upfront investment for both the property purchase and renovation costs. Additionally, the time and cost involved in selling can eat into profits.

• Taxes on Profits: Flipping properties may result in higher tax rates on profits, as the gains are often considered income rather than capital gains.

Which Strategy Works Best?

Ultimately, the best investment strategy depends on your personal goals and resources:

• If you’re seeking steady, long-term income and are willing to handle the responsibilities of being a landlord, Buy-to-Let might be the way to go.

• If you’re looking for quick, high returns and have the capital and expertise to manage property renovations, Buy-to-Sell could suit you better.

In both cases, thorough market research, careful planning, and financial readiness are key to success. Whichever strategy you choose, it’s important to align your investment with your risk tolerance and long-term financial objectives

 

Contact us for guidance

 

 

How to Identify High-Growth Areas for Property Investment

Finding the right area to invest in is crucial for maximising your returns in property investment. High-growth areas can offer significant capital appreciation, making them a prime opportunity for investors. But how do you identify these areas before they become widely recognised? Here are key factors to consider when scouting for high-growth property hotspots.

1. Look for Infrastructure Developments

One of the strongest indicators of future growth is the development of local infrastructure. Areas undergoing or planning new transport links, schools, hospitals, and other public amenities are likely to experience an increase in property demand. For example, new rail lines or motorway expansions often lead to improved connectivity, making previously underappreciated areas more attractive to both homeowners and renters.

2. Track Regeneration Projects

Urban regeneration is a powerful catalyst for property growth. Many cities and towns are investing in regenerating rundown areas, converting industrial spaces, and revitalising town centres. Look for regions where councils are investing in regeneration initiatives, as these projects often lead to an uplift in property values. You can typically find regeneration plans in local government reports or planning websites.

3. Watch for Rising Demand in Rental Markets

High demand for rental properties is a key indicator of potential property growth. Areas with a large student population, young professionals, or growing industries will often see an increase in rental demand. Areas near business hubs, tech parks, or universities tend to have a consistent flow of tenants, driving up demand and, ultimately, property values. Tracking local rental yield data can also help you spot these high-demand zones.

4. Monitor Employment Growth and Economic Development

The economic health of an area is a strong predictor of future property growth. If an area is attracting businesses or seeing job growth, it’s likely that people will follow in search of housing. Areas with strong employment opportunities, particularly in industries like technology, finance, or healthcare, tend to experience rising property values as more people move to the area for work.

5. Check for Improvements in Local Amenities

A shift towards more family-friendly, convenient locations is increasingly driving property demand. Look for areas with improved or developing local amenities, such as new parks, shops, restaurants, or recreational spaces. These are attractive features that enhance the quality of life for residents, making the area more desirable for both buyers and renters.

6. Assess Local Price Trends

While predicting the future of property markets can be tricky, reviewing local price trends can help identify areas that have potential for growth. Areas with consistent year-on-year increases in property prices may indicate a growing market. However, be cautious of areas that have recently seen large spikes in price, as these may have reached their peak.

7. Consider Gentrification Potential

Gentrification refers to the transformation of an area through increased investment, often leading to a rise in property values. Look for areas where young professionals or creatives are starting to move in, bringing a sense of vibrancy and new developments to the area. Once these neighbourhoods attract mainstream buyers, property values often soar.

8. Study Demographic Shifts

The demographic profile of an area can also be a strong predictor of future property demand. Consider factors like population growth, an influx of younger people, or an aging population. An area that attracts young families, professionals, or retirees will likely see an increase in demand for housing. Keep an eye on census data, which can provide insights into changing demographics.

9. Research Local Development Plans

Finally, check the local planning permission websites or council meeting minutes for any upcoming projects or zoning changes. New housing developments, business hubs, or improvements to infrastructure can transform a quiet area into a sought-after location for investors and residents.

Conclusion

Identifying high-growth areas for property investment involves looking beyond just current property prices. By tracking infrastructure development, employment growth, rental demand, and local amenities, you can spot areas with strong potential for future growth. Combining these factors with your own research and a long-term investment approach can help ensure your property investment pays off in the years to come.

 

Contact us for expert guidance!

Where Is the UK Housing Market Heading in 2025?

As we look ahead to 2025, the UK housing market is poised for a period of change, shaped by various factors including economic conditions, government policies, and shifting buyer preferences. While predictions for the property market are never certain, there are several trends and indicators that can give us insight into where the market may be heading.

1. Stabilising House Prices

After several years of fluctuating prices, it’s expected that the UK housing market will begin to stabilise by 2025. The rapid growth in house prices seen in previous years, driven by low interest rates and high demand, is likely to slow down as inflation and rising interest rates continue to have an impact. Buyers may become more cautious, and sellers may have to adjust their expectations, leading to a more balanced market.

2. Increased Demand for Sustainable Homes

Sustainability is a growing concern for homeowners and buyers. By 2025, there’s likely to be an even greater demand for energy-efficient, eco-friendly homes. Government initiatives to encourage green housing developments, such as new building regulations and energy performance standards, are likely to push this trend forward. Buyers will increasingly look for homes that offer sustainability features, such as solar panels, improved insulation, and energy-efficient appliances.

3. Shifting Preferences for Suburban and Rural Living

The rise of hybrid working has already shifted many people’s preferences from city centres to more suburban or rural locations. As flexible working continues to grow in popularity, we may see this trend intensify by 2025. Buyers will be looking for larger homes with office space, outdoor areas, and easy access to green spaces, which will drive demand in more suburban and rural areas, often at the expense of city living.

4. More Government Intervention in the Market

The UK government is likely to continue playing an active role in the housing market by 2025. We can expect more policies aimed at improving housing affordability, including potential reforms to the stamp duty system and the continuation of schemes like Help to Buy or shared ownership. There may also be an increased focus on building more affordable homes, especially in high-demand regions.

5. Rising Interest Rates and Affordability Challenges

With inflationary pressures and the Bank of England’s potential for raising interest rates, affordability could become a key challenge for many buyers by 2025. Higher mortgage rates will likely result in higher monthly payments, which could limit buyers’ purchasing power and reduce the number of people entering the market. This could lead to a slowdown in demand for properties in the short term, although long-term trends will likely depend on broader economic conditions.

6. Rental Market Growth

As the affordability of buying a home becomes more challenging, the rental market could continue to grow. With more people being priced out of the buying market, demand for rental properties, particularly in areas close to transport links and employment hubs, is likely to rise. Investors may increasingly target buy-to-let properties in sought-after locations, and there could be greater competition for quality rental homes.

7. Technology and Innovation in Property Transactions

By 2025, technology is expected to continue revolutionising the property market. Virtual viewings, digital paperwork, and AI-driven property searches are becoming more commonplace, offering greater convenience for buyers and sellers. The growth of online platforms and digital tools will likely simplify property transactions, making them faster and more efficient.

Conclusion

Looking towards 2025, the UK housing market is expected to experience a more balanced and stabilised environment. While house prices may not see the explosive growth of recent years, demand for sustainable, energy-efficient homes and properties in suburban or rural areas will remain strong. The market will also face challenges in terms of affordability, with rising interest rates potentially slowing down purchasing power. Ultimately, the housing market in 2025 will likely be shaped by a combination of economic factors, evolving buyer preferences, and continued government involvement.

 

Book an in-person valuation today to make your early start