The demand for rental homes is incredibly strong, with national average asking rents outside of London reaching a new record of £1,231 per calendar month in the second quarter of 2023.* More people are renting than ever before, so your property won’t stay vacant for long when you are in between tenants. In fact, if you use a letting agent, they likely have a list of prospective tenants ready to move in. This means that if your property is in need of redecorating, you don’t have much time.

Inspect your property
Before your tenants move out, inspect your property. Document any pressing issues with notes or photographs using your phone. Planning is crucial and will save you time. Therefore, it's always advisable to have your team prepared well in advance of your tenant's move-out date. This proactive approach ensures you won't be delayed while waiting for highly sought-after tradespeople.

Choose a neutral colour palette
Opting for a neutral colour palette doesn't have to be dull. Neutral colours tend to create a sense of light and space, making it easier for your tenants to coordinate their furniture with your property. If your property is furnished, adopting the same neutral approach is advisable, as it broadens your property's appeal.

Be practical
It might be tempting to cut costs by using budget-friendly products, selecting high-quality paint and materials ensures the longevity of your hard work. Fixtures and fittings that are of good quality will make your property more appealing and increase its desirability. This helps to attract responsible tenants who are more likely to care for their home.

Functionality
Put yourself in your tenant's shoes. Consider how you can make the property more user-friendly whether it's improving storage, enhancing the kitchen or bathroom, or adding modern, energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Sometimes, small changes can make a significant impact.

Less is more
Create space with ample lighting, bright neutral colours, and minimal clutter. A good deep cleaning and fresh paint can make your property appear spacious and modern. This allows your tenants to personalise each room. Well-presented flooring, perhaps refreshed to remove imperfections, and attractive blinds all contribute to making your property a more inviting home.

Improvements
Time is of the essence, but if you choose to make improvements, they will add to the value of your property. Focus on key areas like the kitchen and bathroom, as these have the most significant impact. Whether you decide on a total refit or simply choose to paint the tiles to give them a new lease on life, it all contributes to a happy home and more content tenants.

Don’t overlook the outdoors
Outdoor areas have become increasingly important for many people. Elevating an outdoor space can significantly boost your property's demand. Painting the decking or adding a covered, all-year weather-proof seating area is like adding another room to the house. Keep the garden simple but well-maintained to make a positive first impression and enhance the property's curb appeal.

Consider a managed letting service
A fully managed letting service handles tenant placement, deposit management, references, and, after your property's redecoration, ongoing maintenance. This helps to protect your hard work and investment in both the long and short term. Being a landlord today is demanding, and it’s becoming increasingly important to follow new legislation. A managed service frees up your time and ensures your property investment remains on track.

Interested in optimising your property investment with a managed letting service? Contact us today.

Rightmove*

 

 

 

 

 

The demand for rental homes is incredibly strong, with national average asking rents outside of London reaching a new record of £1,231 per calendar month in the second quarter of 2023.* More people are renting than ever before, so your property won’t stay vacant for long when you are in between tenants. In fact, if you use a letting agent, they likely have a list of prospective tenants ready to move in. This means that if your property is in need of redecorating, you don’t have much time.

Inspect your property
Before your tenants move out, inspect your property. Document any pressing issues with notes or photographs using your phone. Planning is crucial and will save you time. Therefore, it's always advisable to have your team prepared well in advance of your tenant's move-out date. This proactive approach ensures you won't be delayed while waiting for highly sought-after tradespeople.

Choose a neutral colour palette
Opting for a neutral colour palette doesn't have to be dull. Neutral colours tend to create a sense of light and space, making it easier for your tenants to coordinate their furniture with your property. If your property is furnished, adopting the same neutral approach is advisable, as it broadens your property's appeal.

Be practical
It might be tempting to cut costs by using budget-friendly products, selecting high-quality paint and materials ensures the longevity of your hard work. Fixtures and fittings that are of good quality will make your property more appealing and increase its desirability. This helps to attract responsible tenants who are more likely to care for their home.

Functionality
Put yourself in your tenant's shoes. Consider how you can make the property more user-friendly whether it's improving storage, enhancing the kitchen or bathroom, or adding modern, energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Sometimes, small changes can make a significant impact.

Less is more
Create space with ample lighting, bright neutral colours, and minimal clutter. A good deep cleaning and fresh paint can make your property appear spacious and modern. This allows your tenants to personalise each room. Well-presented flooring, perhaps refreshed to remove imperfections, and attractive blinds all contribute to making your property a more inviting home.

Improvements
Time is of the essence, but if you choose to make improvements, they will add to the value of your property. Focus on key areas like the kitchen and bathroom, as these have the most significant impact. Whether you decide on a total refit or simply choose to paint the tiles to give them a new lease on life, it all contributes to a happy home and more content tenants.

Don’t overlook the outdoors
Outdoor areas have become increasingly important for many people. Elevating an outdoor space can significantly boost your property's demand. Painting the decking or adding a covered, all-year weather-proof seating area is like adding another room to the house. Keep the garden simple but well-maintained to make a positive first impression and enhance the property's curb appeal.

Consider a managed letting service
A fully managed letting service handles tenant placement, deposit management, references, and, after your property's redecoration, ongoing maintenance. This helps to protect your hard work and investment in both the long and short term. Being a landlord today is demanding, and it’s becoming increasingly important to follow new legislation. A managed service frees up your time and ensures your property investment remains on track.

Interested in optimising your property investment with a managed letting service? Contact us today.

Rightmove*

 

 

 

 

 

The demand for rental homes is incredibly strong, with national average asking rents outside of London reaching a new record of £1,231 per calendar month in the second quarter of 2023.* More people are renting than ever before, so your property won’t stay vacant for long when you are in between tenants. In fact, if you use a letting agent, they likely have a list of prospective tenants ready to move in. This means that if your property is in need of redecorating, you don’t have much time.

Inspect your property
Before your tenants move out, inspect your property. Document any pressing issues with notes or photographs using your phone. Planning is crucial and will save you time. Therefore, it's always advisable to have your team prepared well in advance of your tenant's move-out date. This proactive approach ensures you won't be delayed while waiting for highly sought-after tradespeople.

Choose a neutral colour palette
Opting for a neutral colour palette doesn't have to be dull. Neutral colours tend to create a sense of light and space, making it easier for your tenants to coordinate their furniture with your property. If your property is furnished, adopting the same neutral approach is advisable, as it broadens your property's appeal.

Be practical
It might be tempting to cut costs by using budget-friendly products, selecting high-quality paint and materials ensures the longevity of your hard work. Fixtures and fittings that are of good quality will make your property more appealing and increase its desirability. This helps to attract responsible tenants who are more likely to care for their home.

Functionality
Put yourself in your tenant's shoes. Consider how you can make the property more user-friendly whether it's improving storage, enhancing the kitchen or bathroom, or adding modern, energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Sometimes, small changes can make a significant impact.

Less is more
Create space with ample lighting, bright neutral colours, and minimal clutter. A good deep cleaning and fresh paint can make your property appear spacious and modern. This allows your tenants to personalise each room. Well-presented flooring, perhaps refreshed to remove imperfections, and attractive blinds all contribute to making your property a more inviting home.

Improvements
Time is of the essence, but if you choose to make improvements, they will add to the value of your property. Focus on key areas like the kitchen and bathroom, as these have the most significant impact. Whether you decide on a total refit or simply choose to paint the tiles to give them a new lease on life, it all contributes to a happy home and more content tenants.

Don’t overlook the outdoors
Outdoor areas have become increasingly important for many people. Elevating an outdoor space can significantly boost your property's demand. Painting the decking or adding a covered, all-year weather-proof seating area is like adding another room to the house. Keep the garden simple but well-maintained to make a positive first impression and enhance the property's curb appeal.

Consider a managed letting service
A fully managed letting service handles tenant placement, deposit management, references, and, after your property's redecoration, ongoing maintenance. This helps to protect your hard work and investment in both the long and short term. Being a landlord today is demanding, and it’s becoming increasingly important to follow new legislation. A managed service frees up your time and ensures your property investment remains on track.

Interested in optimising your property investment with a managed letting service? Contact us today.

Rightmove*

 

 

 

 

 

The demand for rental homes is incredibly strong, with national average asking rents outside of London reaching a new record of £1,231 per calendar month in the second quarter of 2023.* More people are renting than ever before, so your property won’t stay vacant for long when you are in between tenants. In fact, if you use a letting agent, they likely have a list of prospective tenants ready to move in. This means that if your property is in need of redecorating, you don’t have much time.

Inspect your property
Before your tenants move out, inspect your property. Document any pressing issues with notes or photographs using your phone. Planning is crucial and will save you time. Therefore, it's always advisable to have your team prepared well in advance of your tenant's move-out date. This proactive approach ensures you won't be delayed while waiting for highly sought-after tradespeople.

Choose a neutral colour palette
Opting for a neutral colour palette doesn't have to be dull. Neutral colours tend to create a sense of light and space, making it easier for your tenants to coordinate their furniture with your property. If your property is furnished, adopting the same neutral approach is advisable, as it broadens your property's appeal.

Be practical
It might be tempting to cut costs by using budget-friendly products, selecting high-quality paint and materials ensures the longevity of your hard work. Fixtures and fittings that are of good quality will make your property more appealing and increase its desirability. This helps to attract responsible tenants who are more likely to care for their home.

Functionality
Put yourself in your tenant's shoes. Consider how you can make the property more user-friendly whether it's improving storage, enhancing the kitchen or bathroom, or adding modern, energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Sometimes, small changes can make a significant impact.

Less is more
Create space with ample lighting, bright neutral colours, and minimal clutter. A good deep cleaning and fresh paint can make your property appear spacious and modern. This allows your tenants to personalise each room. Well-presented flooring, perhaps refreshed to remove imperfections, and attractive blinds all contribute to making your property a more inviting home.

Improvements
Time is of the essence, but if you choose to make improvements, they will add to the value of your property. Focus on key areas like the kitchen and bathroom, as these have the most significant impact. Whether you decide on a total refit or simply choose to paint the tiles to give them a new lease on life, it all contributes to a happy home and more content tenants.

Don’t overlook the outdoors
Outdoor areas have become increasingly important for many people. Elevating an outdoor space can significantly boost your property's demand. Painting the decking or adding a covered, all-year weather-proof seating area is like adding another room to the house. Keep the garden simple but well-maintained to make a positive first impression and enhance the property's curb appeal.

Consider a managed letting service
A fully managed letting service handles tenant placement, deposit management, references, and, after your property's redecoration, ongoing maintenance. This helps to protect your hard work and investment in both the long and short term. Being a landlord today is demanding, and it’s becoming increasingly important to follow new legislation. A managed service frees up your time and ensures your property investment remains on track.

Interested in optimising your property investment with a managed letting service? Contact us today.

Rightmove*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact us today for an accurate appraisal of how close you really are to living in the home you deserve

 

Your home’s location
Location is a key factor in determining the value of your home. So make the most of it. Whether it’s proximity to local transport links, schools, or beautiful countryside.

Kerb appeal
From flowers to fences or widows to door frames. Anything you can add to make your home look attractive at first sight will always help.

Smart technology
There is very little you can’t use smart technology for, whether it’s for entertainment, heating, or security. Make the most of it for a comfortable and modern way of living that will help you relax.

Energy-efficiency
Buyers like cost-saving and environmentally friendly features. Highlight any energy-efficient features, such as energy-rated appliances, LED lighting, smart thermostats, triple-glazed windows, or insulation upgrades.

Build a garden office
The proportion of property listings that now mention a garden office is now 11 times higher.* With so many of us working from home today, this is now high on the list of desirable features for many people.

Add bi-fold doors
By creating space while adding lots of light, you can really alter your indoor and outdoor living spaces as they seamlessly blend, allowing you to add real desirability to your home.

Open-plan living
Open-plan layouts have been on trend for the past few years. By increasing the size of your rooms by physically removing walls, your kitchen and dining area will seem so much bigger, with more light and a better feeling of space.

The kitchen
A new kitchen fitted with energy-efficient appliances is the central hub of any home. Doing this could add up to 15% to the value of your home.*

Create off-street parking
Off-street parking can add up to £50,000 to the value of your home.* So if you can create it where it did not exist before, many more home buyers will want to buy your home.

Does your home have any special features?
Whether we are talking about traditional architectural features such as an original fireplace, staircase, or stone walls, celebrate them. But do so in a respectful, neutral way that does not alienate potential buyers.

Outdoor living space
From great decking to the perfect patio, add lights, candles, an outdoor dining area, and a fire pit. Outdoor spaces, big or small, add to the value of your home and to the quality of your life.

Garden
Making the most of your garden is just as important as making the most of any room in the house. And this can not only add value to your home but also greatly increase its attractiveness to buyers.

Sell your property’s potential
Whether you have planning permission to build an extension or loft conversion, this is always worth mentioning to your agent as it could attract buyers.

Get in touch today to discuss moving to the place you really want to be

 

Zoopla*

 

 

 

 

There is so much more to your local estate agent than meets the eye. The skill set, depth of knowledge, and range of skills that are needed to succeed in the industry today are staggering. It’s little wonder most people still use a traditional estate agent over an online-only estate agent, and much of this is down to market knowledge and technology.

Technology
Your home will get great exposure to ready-and-waiting buyers thanks to connecting home buyers and sellers like never before. With access to databases of home movers, property listings, market analysis tools, and customer relationship management (CRM) software, your agent has the technology to sell your home quickly. Additionally, your agent may use virtual reality or 3D tours to provide immersive property viewings for remote clients. Add to this the huge social media reach, and you are on the move in no time.

Great personal service
There is no substitute for the friendly face of your local estate agent. It’s comforting to have a professional person to offer assurance and emotional support through what is an exciting time but is also a little nerve-racking. When you are moving, you have a lot of what-ifs. There is a lot to do, and having someone on the other end of the phone to guide you through all aspects of your move is very comforting.

Valuation
Valuing your home at the right level is critical in today’s complex and fluctuating market. If the asking price is too low, you could cost yourself some serious money. Too high, and your home will not sell. Potential buyers start to ask questions like; How long has the property been on the market? Your house sale becomes stale. This can lead to achieving a much lower price, as you are forced to sell at a lower price to regenerate buyer interest.

Market and area knowledge
Your local estate agent will know your local property market better than anyone else. Modern agents are made up of a talented team of people, from valuers to marketing strategists and property experts. Staying on trend with everything to do with property, they will know your local area as well as you will after living there for years.

Mortgages and other services
Modern estate agents have a broad network of contacts within the industry, from mortgage brokers and conveyancers to removal companies. Putting you in touch with a good mortgage advisor could be the difference between finding the right road to your new home and getting lost. This all makes for a seamless, less stressful move.

Marketing expertise
Gone are the days of traditional marketing methods. Modern estate agents are well-versed in digital marketing strategies, including social media, online listings, and virtual tours. They know how to present properties in the best light, creating eye-catching listings that attract potential buyers. Their marketing efforts extend beyond just listing a property; they also know how to stage homes for viewings and use professional photography to highlight your property's strengths.

Negotiation skills
Negotiating the price of your home can be a complex and emotional process. Your agent will make sure you get the best possible deal in the time frame that works for you. They act as intermediaries, helping to bridge the gap between buyers and sellers and ensuring that both parties are satisfied with the outcome. And this experience and knowledge make their fees worth every penny.

Legal compliance
It’s easy to fall down a legal pitfall when moving. This is why a modern estate agent is imperative for a smooth sale. Complex legal documents are included, from exchanging contracts to local regulations, and their expertise will save you time and money. Then you can enjoy the excitement of moving property to the fullest without any worries.

 

 

Now that the entire family has settled back into work or school, many people are getting on the move again. Even if you do not have a young family, it can be a bit frantic during the summer as you prepare for your holidays. If you start now, you could be in for Christmas, or in time to start the New Year in a new home. It may be getting colder outside, but there's plenty of reason for the property market to start warming again.

Larger homes are looking like a good option
The first-time buyer market is doing well, and many young buyers are saving their deposits while with parents, skipping renting, and choosing to buy. And their parents are selling their larger homes! If you are outgrowing your home and are already wondering where everyone is going to sit this Christmas, now is a good time to consider buying bigger.

Property is pride
Your property is possibly your most important possession. Why would you not want to enjoy a better home? Home is a feeling that never abandons you, which becomes enhanced when you find the right property. A home should be exciting, rewarding, comforting, and give a feeling of safety. With so many amazing homes to choose from, whether it be a rural retreat, a suburban new-build, or an apartment with a stunning view of the city skyscape. Maybe you would prefer a large Victorian townhouse with a study and a gym, or a beautifully presented and characterful village terrace—they are all beautiful and have the power to enchant you.

Home movers are becoming acclimatised
The UK property market has been fascinating these past few years, and as we enter a stage of calm, new doors of opportunity open. Cash is king, and the UK property market has many faucets. Generally, home movers and homeowners are adjusting to the higher cost of mortgages and costs of living. There are, of course, some who will find it difficult. Nowadays, there are initiatives such as cost of living support to help those struggling. However, for the most part, affordability levels are still strong, with many home movers in a good position in terms of equity. This will encourage them to make their move, and this in turn will make the market resilient. The property market is also underpinned by a shortage in supply and a large proportion of buyers who are mortgage-free.

Life is too short to wait
Life is for living, and many people are now fed up with waiting to see what happens. In the long run, it can cost you more money as values increase. Modern estate agents can tailor pricing strategies and connect you with the homes and the means of purchasing a home you want, due to their understanding of the market. There is always a way to get the keys to the home you want. It may take a little searching or a relocation to another region. But you will get there if you want to. This attitude is prevailing in the property market, and as such, more people are on the move again and eagerly looking forward to a great new year. This in turn means there are buyers on the databases of agents looking for a home like yours.

 

 

You know the feeling. It happens during so many important events in life. You go on a viewing, it’s such an interesting and exciting process that you become a little flustered. You walk from room to room, loving what you see. You are enamoured and excited, so you forget to ask an important question. While you can always contact your agent at any time to gain more information, it's important to remember that your agent is an invaluable partner in your moving journey. So here are a few questions that you might not think to ask to add to your list.

If you are selling

 

Contact us today to see how we can begin your successful moving story.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investing in multiple-occupancy homes (HMOs) can be a great way of increasing yields, making them very attractive investment opportunities for landlords. Although the potential return on investment is greater when letting HMOs, they do require slightly more management than single lets, so here is a guide to help you through the process.

What is a multiple-occupancy home?
An HMO is a property with at least three people from more than one household who share basic facilities such as a kitchen, a bathroom, and a living space. HMOs can take many different forms, including large homes that have been converted into several self-contained flats with shared amenities, properties with separate bedrooms and shared common areas, and accommodations purpose-built for multiple residents. Properties with five or more tenants are considered large HMOs.

What licences are needed for HMOs?
It is mandatory for all large HMOs to have a licence, and landlords must use their local council’s application process to apply for it. HMO licences outline the maximum number of people that can live at a residence and will state the date on which the licence needs renewing. Smaller HMOs usually do not need to be licenced unless the local council believes the area’s HMOs are being mismanaged. Licences typically cost between £700 and £1000, but the high profitability of HMOs should result in a strong return on investment in no time.

How to manage an HMO
There is quite a considerable difference between managing a single tenant and managing an HMO. But there is no need to worry, as there is plenty of help available to landlords looking to invest in HMOs, especially from letting agents. They can help with tenant acquisition and screening to make sure there is a steady flow of tenants, even if there is a high turnover rate. Your letting agent can also help you draft a tenancy agreement, which is a slightly more complex task due to the extra regulations involved in letting an HMO. 

Steady flow of tenants
With several tenants in each property paying their own rent, you multiply your income stream, therefore increasing your return on investment. Even if one room becomes vacant for any reason, you will still receive income from the other tenants. In a single let, your property could remain vacant for a period of time, but this is less likely to happen in a HMO.

Increasing opportunities
Over the previous two years, the overall number of HMOs has fallen by 4.1%, leading to an increase in opportunities for landlords.* HMOs attract a range of different demographics, such as students, young professionals, and people new to the local area. For tenants, living in an HMO can be a cost-effective way of finding a home, as the rent is shared between multiple people.

Overall, despite the additional management and licencing required, letting HMOs is a great way to increase your return on investment as a landlord. With a continuous flow of tenants and increasing opportunities in the market, HMOs are low-risk investments that can produce high yields. With support from a letting agent, investing in HMOs is a very attractive proposition for landlords.

 

Thinking of making your next investment? Contact us today

Octane Capital*

Rental demand still outstrips supply in the UK, and your property is unique, which is why it’s important to understand its true rental value. Average rents for new lets increased by 12.2% in the year to September 2023, and are expected to increase by 5–6% in 2024.*

Why should you get a rental valuation?
As a new or existing landlord, you want to keep clued up with the market and benefit from a good rental valuation. Determining accurately how much rent to charge optimises your investment and creates a balance between maximising property income without overcharging tenants. This attracts long-term tenants who are prepared to pay fair prices, which guarantees a good return on investment. It can also support landlords in adhering to regulatory requirements. A good agent can advise you on how much rent to charge, enabling you to budget for the upkeep and improvements of your property. This keeps your buy-to-let property competitive in the rental market and makes for a better tenant-landlord relationship.

Things to consider when determining your property’s rental valuation:

Tenants
A good agent will figure out which sector of the market best suits your property. Perhaps you have already decided that you are aiming at the young professional, student, or retirement markets, or have you created an ideal family home? If you have not decorated yet or your property needs improvement, your agent will be best placed to advise you.

Demand
Understanding the true rental value of your property is intrinsically linked to levels of demand. Agents utilise databases and years of knowledge of the property market to understand the scale of demand for your property. This will be pivotal in understanding your investment.

Your property’s location 
The location of your property is influential; however, it's not all about the postcode. Sought-after and up-and-coming areas will add value. Proximity to transport links and good schools is ideal for families. Located in a beautiful rural area, or an inner-city location, shops and other amenities also play a part in adding to your property’s rental valuation.

Is your property furnished or unfurnished?
Is your property unfurnished, partially furnished, or fully furnished? A fully furnished property could command a higher rent. Having said that, providing a property without furniture does not put you at a disadvantage, and you will not be responsible for the upkeep of any furniture or appliances that you do not own.

The condition of your property
Needless to say, if your property is in good condition or has been recently refurbished, then it will be more desirable to tenants and will affect how much rent you can charge. A good agent will also be able to advise you on where to spend on alterations, if that is something on your to-do list.

What do you need to prepare for a rental valuation?
Making your property presentable and in good order and having all the right paperwork to hand, such as gas safety certificates or deeds, is always a good idea. If your property needs painting, re-decorating, and decluttering, it helps to carry this out before you have it valued. After that, your agent will do the rest. In fact, with a fully managed service, your agent’s maintenance team may be able to prepare your property to let, depending on the work that needs to be carried out.

 

Find the hidden rental value of your property by booking a rental valuation

Zoopla*