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**

 

 

The Renters’ Reform Bill is set to be the most significant shake-up of the private rented sector in decades. While the final legislation is still being debated, its direction is clear: fairer tenancies, fewer evictions, and a more transparent relationship between landlords and tenants.

That doesn’t mean landlords should worry, but it does mean landlords should be ready. This bill applies only in England and primarily affects Assured Shorthold Tenancies. Forward-thinking landlords are reviewing their processes to future-proof their lettings.

1. Prepare for the end of Section 21
The headline change is the proposed abolition of ‘no-fault’ evictions under Section 21. All evictions will need to be justified under Section 8, using specific grounds (e.g., rent arrears, breach of tenancy, wanting to sell).

Preparation steps:

• Audit your tenancy documentation to ensure it’s fair and up to date.
• Document everything: inspections, communications, complaints, and responses to create a paper trail.
• Ensure deposit protection certificates, gas safety records, and How to Rent guides are correctly issued and logged.

2. Move towards periodic tenancies confidently
The Bill proposes that all tenancies will become periodic by default—rolling monthly agreements with no fixed end date. For landlords used to fixed terms, this may feel like a loss of structure, but periodic tenancies actually offer flexibility for both parties.

Landlord insight: With a reliable tenant, periodic tenancies reduce admin while still allowing reasonable notice for rent increases, property sales, or repossession—all within a clearer, balanced process.

3. Strengthen your compliance
The Bill raises the bar on landlord responsibilities. A new Property Portal may act as a central register to prove compliance.

Your compliance admin check:

• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) within five years.
• Annual gas safety certificate.
• EPC rating of E or above (plan for C as the future benchmark).
• Smoke and CO alarms properly installed and tested.
• Deposit properly registered and prescribed information served.

Proactive compliance builds trust and avoids disputes before they start.

4. Penalties: what’s at stake?
Fines for non-compliance will rise, and rogue landlord lists will become more visible. Avoid penalties by staying organised, acting fairly, and treating your property like a professional business.

Change is coming, but it doesn’t have to be disruptive. By adopting a structured, documented, and people-focused approach now, landlords can adapt confidently and stand out as trusted professionals.

Ready to future-proof your tenancies? Let’s talk.

Decoding property terms: your guide to getting it right
When it comes to buying or selling a property, the language used can sometimes feel like a whole new world. From legal terms to financial jargon, understanding property terminology is key to making informed decisions. If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head at industry terms or feeling overwhelmed by the terminology, this property jargon buster will help you navigate the process with confidence.

1. EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)
An EPC gives you an overview of a property’s energy efficiency. It’s rated from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient), with higher ratings meaning lower energy costs and a better environmental impact. Buyers should consider EPC ratings when deciding on properties, as higher-rated homes tend to be cheaper to run.

2. Chain
A chain refers to a sequence of transactions in property sales. For example, if you’re buying a home, the sale might be part of a chain of buyers and sellers all linked together. A chain-free property means there are no other buyers or sellers involved, which can speed up the process.

3. Mortgage in Principle (MIP)
A mortgage in principle is a statement from a lender that says you are likely to be approved for a mortgage up to a certain amount, based on your income and credit history. It’s useful when house hunting, as it shows sellers you are serious and financially capable of making a purchase.

4. Conveyancing
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from the seller to the buyer. This involves a series of legal checks, including searches on the property’s history and ensuring all paperwork is in order. Conveyancers or solicitors manage this process.

5. Exchange of Contracts
When you exchange contracts, the sale becomes legally binding. At this point, the buyer and seller sign an agreement to complete the transaction, and the buyer typically pays a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price). Once exchanged, neither party can back out without financial penalties.

6. Completion
Completion is when the property officially changes hands. It’s the final step in the sale process, where the balance of the purchase price is paid, and the buyer receives the keys to their new home. It usually happens a few weeks after the exchange of contracts.

7. Freehold vs Leasehold
Freehold means you own the property and the land it sits on outright.
Leasehold means you own the property for a set period (often 99 or 125 years), but the land it sits on is owned by a separate party (usually a freeholder). Leasehold properties often have additional costs, like ground rent and maintenance fees.

8. Survey
A survey is a professional inspection of a property to assess its condition. There are different types of surveys:

• Homebuyer’s Report: A basic survey that highlights any obvious problems.
• Building Survey: A more thorough inspection for older or larger properties.
• Valuation Survey: Usually carried out by a mortgage lender to determine if the property is worth the loan amount.

9. Stamp Duty
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a tax paid when buying property in England. The amount you pay depends on the property price and whether you are a first-time buyer. First-time buyers get a tax break on properties up to £425,000, while buyers of second homes or higher-priced properties will pay more.

10. Asking Price vs Offer Price
The asking price is the amount the seller is asking for the property. The offer price is the amount you propose to pay for it. You can negotiate your offer based on factors like the property’s condition or how long it’s been on the market.

11. Closing Costs
Closing costs refer to the additional fees involved in completing the purchase of a home. These can include stamp duty, legal fees, survey costs, and other administrative charges that buyers need to account for on top of the property’s purchase price.

12. Deposit
The deposit is the money you put down upfront when buying a home, typically between 5% and 20% of the property price. The larger the deposit, the more likely you are to receive a better mortgage rate.

13. Buy-to-Let
A buy-to-let is a property purchased with the intention of renting it out to tenants. The income generated from renting the property should ideally cover the mortgage repayments, and any profit is considered an investment.

14. Bridging Loan
A bridging loan is a short-term loan used to “bridge the gap” between buying and selling. It’s often used if you need to secure a property before selling your current home or if you’re waiting for long-term financing.

15. Capital Gains Tax
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax on the profit you make when selling an asset, such as property. If you sell a second home or investment property, the profit made on the sale may be subject to CGT. It’s important to factor this into your calculations if you’re selling.

Mastering the lingo
While property terminology can seem confusing, understanding the key terms is the first step in making smart, informed decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, knowledge of the jargon will help you navigate the property market with confidence.

Ready to explore the property market? Get in touch today to learn more and feel confident with every step you take.

The Decision That Shapes Your Property’s Future

One of the most significant decisions a property owner will face is whether to sell or let. Whether you're relocating, downsizing, or just assessing your long-term options, both paths have their advantages and drawbacks. With the right insight and a clear understanding of your goals, making the best choice can be simpler than you think.

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of selling versus letting to help guide your decision.

Selling: Free Up Equity, Move On

The pros:

• Immediate cash return: Selling your property gives you immediate access to the full sale price, which can be used for reinvestment, paying off debts, or funding your next purchase. If you're looking to downsize or move on quickly, selling provides the capital to do so.
• No ongoing responsibilities: Once you sell, you’re free from maintenance, tenant management, and property upkeep. No more worrying about repairs, tenant disputes, or upkeep.
• Market timing: If property values are high and demand is strong, it could be the right time to sell. This could be especially beneficial if interest rates or market conditions are favourable for a fast sale.

The cons:

• Missed long-term gains: Selling means you lose the opportunity to earn rental income or benefit from future property value increases. If the market continues to rise, you could miss out on long-term wealth-building opportunities.
• Selling costs: Estate agent fees, conveyancing costs, and potential capital gains tax (depending on your circumstances) can eat into your profits.
• The uncertainty of the next step: Once your property is sold, there’s no guarantee you’ll find the right home or investment immediately. Renting or buying in the future may be more expensive depending on market conditions.

Letting: Earning Income While Retaining Ownership

The pros:

• Steady rental income: Renting out your property provides a steady stream of income, which can supplement your salary or fund future investments. This can be a great option if you’re seeking long-term financial security.
• Property value appreciation: If your property increases in value over time, you can sell it later at a profit while continuing to receive rental income in the meantime.
• Flexibility: Renting gives you the option to return to the property later if necessary. You also have the option to let long-term and sell at a future date when the market aligns with your goals.

The cons:

• Management responsibility: As a landlord, you’ll be responsible for finding tenants, managing contracts, and handling maintenance. This can be time-consuming, especially if you have multiple properties or live far from the rental.
• Risk of tenant issues: Even with the best tenants, there’s always a chance of missed rent payments, disputes, or property damage.
• Maintenance costs: As a landlord, you must maintain the property, ensuring it’s habitable. Additionally, if the property is vacant for any period, you still bear the costs of upkeep without rental income.

Which is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider these factors before making your decision:

• Financial goals: Do you need immediate cash from a sale, or are you looking for long-term income? Selling is better if you need cash immediately, while letting offers ongoing income.
• Property location and market trends: High rental demand may make letting more lucrative, but if property prices are strong, selling may provide the best return.
• Time and commitment: If you’re not ready to manage tenants and maintain a property, selling may be simpler. Letting involves more work but could lead to a higher return over time.
• Long-term vision: Letting offers flexibility to hold the property for future growth, while selling releases capital for your next move.

Not sure whether to sell or let your property?

Get expert advice tailored to your specific goals and circumstances.

It’s easy to get carried away when viewing a potential home. The excitement of imagining your life in a new place can cloud your judgment, but it’s important to stay calm and focus on the details. Buyers often make snap decisions they later regret simply because they didn’t pause to assess everything thoroughly.

Here are the top five mistakes to avoid when viewing a property, to help you stay sharp and make a well-informed decision.

1. Not looking beyond the cosmetic appeal

Freshly painted walls, stylish furniture, and well-maintained spaces can quickly make you feel like you’ve found "the one." But these features can be distracting and hide underlying issues.

What to do: Look beyond the décor and focus on the structure, plumbing, roof, and windows. Ask about repairs or maintenance and check for damp, cracks, or unusual smells that might not be visible at first glance.

2. Forgetting to consider the neighbourhood

You’re not just buying a house; you’re buying into a community. Consider safety, nearby schools, shops, parks, and traffic at different times of day.

What to do: Walk around the neighbourhood, even after the viewing. Visit during peak times and speak to neighbours about local amenities, noise levels, or potential issues.

3. Not factoring in future costs

Maintenance costs, utility bills, council tax, and potential renovations can add up over time and affect your budget.

What to do: Check the energy performance (EPC rating), ask about appliance age and plumbing/electrical systems, and factor in the cost of any updates before committing.

4. Letting emotions override logic

Excitement or attachment can cloud your judgment, tempting you to make an offer before considering all pros and cons.

What to do: Stay objective during viewings. Take your time, bring a friend or family member for a second opinion, and list your “must-haves” versus “nice-to-haves.”

5. Overlooking potential long-term issues

Consider the property’s suitability for 5, 10, or 20 years. Will it meet your long-term needs as your family or circumstances change?

What to do: Ask yourself if the property will meet your long-term needs. Consider space, garden expansion possibilities, and check for planning permissions or restrictions that could affect future developments.

Stay sharp, make a smart choice

Viewings are exciting, but staying objective and paying attention to details is key to finding the right property. Avoiding these common mistakes ensures you make a well-informed decision and end up with a home perfect for now and the future.

Ready to start viewing homes? Let’s find the perfect one for you,

and ensure you’re prepared for the journey.