Learn the latest property news this September

A third of homes sell for over the asking price

One in three properties sold for more than the original asking price in April.*

This has put homeowners looking to move in a better position than ever. What could it mean for you?

Here are a few top tips for selling your home this summer:

1. First impressions count

Don’t underestimate the impact that kerb appeal has on potential buyers.

A survey conducted by YouGov stated that well-maintained windows, front gardens and pathways can be the key to a quick sale.

2. Update the kitchen

The kitchen is the most valuable room in the house.

A bright spacious kitchen can be attractive to potential buyers.

A fresh coat of paint and removing any bulky appliances before viewings can make all the difference in creating a clean and spacious look.

3. Light and airy

Putting up mirrors in your home can make a room seem much larger and brighter.

Putting lamps in any dark corners will brighten up the room and create a warm glow that is inviting to potential buyers.

*Property Reporter

Who’s most interested in your home’s value?

Have you ever used property sites to snoop on how much someone has paid for their home?

In a study by Zoopla, six out of ten Brits admitted to checking out how much someone has paid for their home, with the most popular people to snoop on being neighbours, friends and family.

Who are Brits most likely to snoop on?

- Neighbour 36%

- Friend 34%

- Family member 29%

- Someone they sold a house to 16%

- Colleague 11%

- Partner 8%

- Someone they dislike 6%

- In-laws 3%

- Ex-partner 3%

But, why are we so nosy about house prices?

Reasons for researching property prices can include: wanting to discover a property’s interior value (18%), the nostalgia of a previous home (12%) and wanting to improve your own property (10%).

However, one of the main reasons to look up the value of another person’s property is to get a better idea of how much your own home is worth.

If you’re curious about the value of your home, there’s no need to guess.

Source: Zoopla

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 by clicking here

*Job search website, Monster

**Homeowners Alliance

Moving house safely: a refresher post-lockdown

COVID-19 restrictions may have been lifted but the virus is far from gone. Many people are still wary of going about their day-to-day lives, even after a year of being stuck indoors.

So, how do you move home safely in 2021? The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government have issued these guidelines to keep you safe...

Can I view a property in-person?

If you are not required to self-isolate, you can go and view a property in-person, however, guidance continues to recommend virtual viewings where possible.

Viewing the property can be an important step in the house buying process, but it’s important to keep yourself safe.

Make sure to follow good hygiene practices, wash your hands regularly by sanitising and cleaning common contact zones, wear a face covering when possible and keep your distance from others.

Do I have to wear a face covering?

Whilst wearing a face covering is no longer mandatory, it’s advised to wear one to protect yourself and others.

The homeowner may request you wear a mask whilst looking round their property. So, you should look to accommodate their wishes whilst you are in their home.

Can I ask people viewing my home to wear a face covering?

If you would like people coming to view your property to wear a face covering, it’s important to let your estate agent know.

Putting a cap on the number of people allowed to view your property at any one time may also be a good idea to help keep everyone safe.

What if I have to self-isolate?

Buyers and sellers may experience delays due to self-isolation. Whilst this may be irritating, it’s important to continue to follow the rules.

- Get a test if you have symptoms.

- Isolate if you have a positive test or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive.

- Quarantine if you are returning from red or amber list countries.

Speak to a solicitor about making contractual provisions in case the worst happens. This enables the process to continue whilst you are isolating.

Want to know how we’re helping to keep you safe? Speak to one of our team members today by clicking here

What does the supply-demand imbalance mean for you?

Vendors have benefited from the supply-demand imbalance seen across the market in 2021, with 40% of properties selling above their original asking price, making conditions optimal for selling.*

What makes conditions optimal this autumn?

1) Low stock

Due to the pandemic, many people were put off selling their homes whilst the construction of new build properties came to a halt, causing a dip in housing stock.

This means that the homes currently on the market are being snapped up faster, with serious buyers putting offers in much sooner than they otherwise might have done.

2) Increased demand

With UK restrictions easing, buyers are now competing for properties, with 36% of homes attracting offers from three or more buyers.*

Many who originally put off moving due to the pandemic are now looking to relocate, causing a huge increase in demand and sparking bidding wars between buyers.

3) Mortgage rates

With the number of available UK mortgages on the rise, lenders are competing to attract more customers with low-interest rates and low-deposit mortgages, giving buyers more choice than ever when it comes to choosing the correct financial option for them.

Need a helping hand selling your home? Get in touch with our team today by clicking here

*Property Reporter and Which?