Welcome to your monthly property update!

Buying a new build vs. an old build home

When purchasing the perfect property for you to call home in the UK, there is such a wide variety available in the housing market to choose from. In the UK, the government is attempting to reach a goal of 300,000 new homes built per year to keep up with the high demand and increase in population. * Some people prefer the character of an old building, while others crave a new blank canvas.

When buying your perfect property, new builds and old builds will both be available, so we are here to compare the two and decide which home suits you.

What’s the difference between a new build and an old build?
When purchasing a home, you must compare the different types of properties. Whether you would prefer a one-bed apartment in a city or a four-bed house in the country, you need to decide which home best suits your lifestyle. This is the same when it comes to choosing a new-build or an old-build property. A newly built property has never been lived in before and is sometimes designed particularly to what you desire. An old building is a property with lots of character, history, nd several previous owners. So, there are extreme differences between an old-build and a new-build home. Do you want a move-in-ready home or a potential property adventure?

What are the positives of purchasing a new build property?
When buying a new home, it is most likely that you will buy the property before it has even been built. This allows you to add certain personalisation’s to the home, like the room layout, light and power placements. It is most likely to be a more energy-efficient home, as newly built homes must meet certain requirements. This means the home's EPC rating will be excellent when you want to sell or rent out your property. Another benefit of a new build is that it never has a chain of properties attached to it, decreasing the chances of your move falling through. It is known that when buying a new home, you have more access to better mortgages and shared ownership options. This increases your chances of owning a property earlier than the average first-time buyer.

What are the negatives of buying a new build property?
A new build isn’t always the best choice for every home buyer, and they can be made more accessible for first-time buyers. New builds aren’t always built on the timeline you planned, creating delays in your moving timeline. New builds aren’t for everyone, but they create the perfect, comfortable step on your property ladder. When buying a new build, you are the first owner, however you may less have less scope to carry out home improvements. There is normally no community built yet, and there is no previous seller to tell you how amazing it is to live at that location.

What are the positives of buying an old build property?
When purchasing an older period home, there are many benefits that come with the purchase. The homes normally have larger square footage, with bigger rooms creating more space. They are well structured, built with thicker walls, and surrounded by more land. Older properties hold valuable character and history, which cannot compete with a new build. You can easily add value to these properties by renovating and redecorating, creating a modern twist. Old build properties will only increase in value over the years unless they are poorly looked after.

What are the negatives of buying an old build property?
When buying an old building, you normally get tangled within a long chain of properties. This is because for people to afford to buy their next home, they must ensure their past property is sold, creating this chain of properties. Old builds normally need constant maintenance and renovation when purchased, but these are spotted quite easily in an old build and normally bought as an exciting project. These homes will have lower EPC ratings as they weren’t built with high energy efficiency, but they can always be improved in the future.

What’s the difference in price between an old build and a new build?
When purchasing between an old build and a new build, there is not much of a price difference. The price is slightly higher for a new build, only because it has never been lived in before. An old build costs less, but you will most likely need to redecorate and renovate parts of the property.

Are you searching for a new home? Contact us today to check out our range of dream homes.

BBC*

Your guide to understanding Council Tax bands

Council tax bands are used in the United Kingdom to determine how much each household should pay in council tax. Paying your council tax bill is a legal obligation for residents in the United Kingdom, and failure to pay can result in serious consequences. Therefore, it is crucial for every homeowner and tenant to understand the calculation of council tax and the role of council tax bands. Let’s take a look at what council tax is, how it is calculated, and how to pay it.

What are council tax bands?
Council tax bands are categories used to assess the value of residential properties for the purpose of levying council tax. Each property is assigned to one of these bands, ranging from Band A (the lowest value) to Band H (the highest value). Your council tax band is determined by the market value of your property on a specific date. In England, it is based on what the value of your property was on April 1, 1991.

What is council tax used for?
Council tax revenue funds a wide range of public services and infrastructure that benefit residents in the area. Some of the key areas where council tax funds are typically allocated include:

Local government services
Education
Social care
Waste collection and recycling
Transportation
Public safety
Parks and leisure facilities
Housing services
Emergency services

Different council tax bands and their costs
Here are the council tax ranges for England based on your property value*:

A: Up to £40,000
B: £40,000 - £52,000
C: £52,000 - £68,000
D: £68,000 - £88,000
E: £88,000 - £120,000
F: £120,000 - £160,000
G: £160,000 - £320,000
H: More than £320,000

Factors that affect council tax bands
When assigning a property to a council tax band in the United Kingdom, several factors are taken into consideration to determine its assessed value. One of these factors is the location of a property, as those situated in areas with higher property values or better amenities may be assigned to higher bands.

The size and type of the property, including the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall floor space, are also taken into consideration. Larger properties, or those with additional features, such as garages or outbuildings, may be assigned to higher bands.

Additionally, the age and condition of the property can influence its assessed value. Older properties or those in need of significant repairs are typically assigned to lower bands, while newer or well-maintained properties may be assigned to higher bands. Any alterations or improvements made to the property since the valuation date may impact its assessed value and council tax band. Whether the property is used residentially or commercially may also increase its tax band.

Council tax for newer properties
Council tax on newer properties in the United Kingdom is calculated in a manner similar to that of older properties, but with some differences in the assessment process. For newer properties, the valuation date used to determine the council tax band is typically the date of completion. In some cases, comparable properties in the area may be considered to establish an appropriate valuation.

The quality of construction materials and finishes used in newer properties may contribute to their higher assessed value compared to older properties. Features such as high-quality fixtures, fittings, and construction techniques can impact the property's valuation. Properties built by reputable developers known for constructing high-quality homes in desirable locations may command higher market values, affecting their council tax bands.

Paying your council tax bill
Most people pay their council tax in 10 instalments over a 12-month period; however you can pay in fewer instalments or even in one annual lump sum if you wish. There are several ways to pay your council tax, including via direct debit, online payment, or telephone payment. If you prefer to pay by post, you can send a cheque payable to your local council along with the payment slip from your council tax bill. However you pay, make sure you allow enough time for the payment to reach the council before the due date.

There are severe consequences for failing to pay your council tax bill. Your local council may impose additional charges or penalties for late payment, and these charges can accumulate over time, increasing the amount you owe. If you continue to refuse or neglect to pay your council tax, the council may eventually apply for a committal warrant, leading to imprisonment in extreme cases.

If you are struggling to pay your council tax bill, you should openly communicate this with your local council. They may be able to offer support or assistance, such as setting up a payment plan based on your financial circumstances.

Looking for a new home? Contact our expert team of agents today

GOV.UK*

How can you accelerate your mortgage?

When diving deep into the world of property, it can sometimes feel hard to resurface. Constantly making payments month after month can become exhausting and may seem never-ending, but paying off your mortgage can truly be accomplished quicker than you assume.

We are here to shine a light on your mortgage this summer with simple tips on how you can accelerate your mortgage.

The benefits of accelerating your mortgage
Accelerating your mortgage may finally give you freedom from your monthly payments sooner than you expected. There are numerous benefits to accelerating your mortgage deal which could save you money in the long term.

A mortgage usually lasts around 25–40 years, depending on how much your home deposit was and what you are willing to pay back per month. So, the longer you stretch your mortgage term, the cheaper your monthly repayments will be but the longer you will be paying back your mortgage. We recommend overpaying on your monthly repayments to shorten your mortgage loan term.

Reduce your interest rates
By overpaying your mortgage, you are far better off in the long run as you save on your interest rates and shorten your overall loan term. The interest is added onto your mortgage loan daily, so by paying more quickly you reduce the amount of interest added. Once you finally pay off your mortgage, you will also receive access to better mortgage deals in the future with other properties, as you have proven reliable for repayments.

How does it work?
Accelerating your mortgage occurs by overpaying on your monthly repayments or by performing weekly repayments rather than monthly. Before accelerating your mortgage, you need to check with your lender about the terms of your mortgage agreement and make them aware of what you are doing. This is because your lender could easily mistake your overpayments for reducing your next monthly repayment, when in fact you want to reduce your overall term.

If you are on a fixed-rate mortgage, it is harder to achieve acceleration as you are typically only able to overpay by 10%.* Sometimes it can be better to remortgage your home to escape a fixed-rate mortgage and get a variable-rate mortgage. This allows you to overpay your mortgage without any early repayment charges. By paying more each time or by paying weekly, you reduce your outstanding mortgage quicker, resulting in a faster decrease in the amount owed on your mortgage.

Is it worth it?
If you were to overpay your mortgage by just £100 a month for a year, it would allow you to take off nearly 3 years of mortgage repayments. This is all due to the interest charge added to each payment, as mortgage interest is calculated daily.

It is worth paying that little more or changing your mortgage payments to weekly, as this leads to less overall interest accumulating on your remaining balance as you are paying off your loan quicker, reducing the term of the mortgage. Weekly repayments are where you change to paying the monthly agreed amount weekly, split into four payments a month rather than one. This will lead to 52 payments a year rather than 12, allowing you to achieve financial freedom sooner.

What happens when I pay off my mortgage?
When you have finally paid off your mortgage sooner than you knew was possible, you will have a new sense of pride. You will now outright own your property and feel proud while noticing extra disposable cash each month.

Accelerating your mortgage can make a huge difference in your overall financial freedom throughout your life. By overpaying or making more frequent payments, it can take away a large amount of interest added to your owed amount. Speak to your lender to discover your options and see how you could gain financial freedom this summer.

Sunnyavenue*

Sales agreed and buyer demand spring forward in time for summer

The spring 2024 market is running serenely and more smoothly than this time last year, thanks to a more stable market. So, if you decide to move, the question has to be asked; Could it be your easiest move ever?

Homemovers are moving the market forwards
This time of year is always busy and 2024 is not disappointing. In fact, the UK property market is moving forward at a better pace than many anticipated. It’s a case of the more, the merrier. When buyers find a new home for sale that they like, it’s another transaction to add to the tally and when their old home is bought by another buyer, this multiplier effect carries on right down the chain. This drives the entire market forward, bringing more buyers to your door and more choices of homes to your inbox.

The market has a lot going for it
You could be forgiven for missing the many opportunities that 2024 has to offer homemovers, thanks to the naysayers in the press and social media. But the facts speak for themselves: stamp duty is favourable at 0% for your first £250,000.* Mortgage rates are improving and, in a historical context, are very favourable, and equity levels are strong, yet house prices are at reasonable and affordable levels. Then there is the standard of properties themselves, which have received a lot of love and attention due to the home improvement frenzy that still continues.

Sales agreed are increasing
In March, sales agreed were 13% higher than the previous year.** Homes are appearing on the market well-prepared by their eager-to-move owners. Gleaning lots of tips and hints on preparing their homes for sale and benefiting from years of hard work and renovations, as well as paying off the mortgage as the value of their properties increases, means equity levels are good. It’s perfect moving weather for packing up and making a fresh start and this is also true when you are viewing properties.

Buyer demand is growing ever stronger
In March, buyer demand was 8% above the same time last year,** due to slowing inflation, and increasing wage levels. The UK property market is a rich and textured place. Demand is increasing on all fronts, from first-time buyers taking advantage of up to 0% stamp duty up to £425,000,* and the 5% deposit Mortgage Guarantee Scheme to cash buyers, and home movers at the higher end of the market. Each property has its own personality yet can be adapted to suit yours. From stunning eco-homes to listed properties, homes often choose their owners.

Agents are making moving easier
The old saying that moving home is one of the most stressful things you can do is losing some of its street credit. Moving does not have to be stressful, but it can be, if the agent you choose is not up to scratch. Good agents attract good vendors, nice properties, offer great listings and can recommend other property professionals that will make the entire process run smoothly. Sometimes it’s being prepared for the unexpected. If a sale falls through, a good agent’s database of buyers will quickly get your sale moving again.

gov.UK*

Rightmove **

Ways your home can earn its keep

One of the joys of owning property is the doors of opportunity it can open. Even if you have no intention of renting out your property, there are lots of things you can do to make a bit of money from it. So here are a few ideas to inspire you.

Get a lodger
Taking in a lodger is a quick way to get some extra cash to pay those bills. The first £7,500 you make will be tax-free thanks to the government’s Rent a Room scheme. Interestingly, you do not have to be a homeowner to take advantage of this scheme, but the room must be furnished. It’s important to inform your home insurance provider, just in case. Doing this can work because it may offer a lot of flexibility for you and any potential lodgers.

Rent out office spaces, outbuildings, or your driveway
Depending on the size of your location and how much extra income you are interested in earning, this will help determine what you are going to do. If you have large outbuildings, you have more options to rent out, without anyone entering your home. Whether they rent storage space, office space, a garage, or a workshop, it’s important to make sure the facility is well-maintained and compliant. If your home is at the edge of a big city and near a train line, it could be ideal for renting out your driveway.

Let your property
Letting your property is a great way to build a secure and prosperous financial future. Using a letting agent makes the process a lot smoother with a lot less effort. You can choose which level of managed service you like. For example, you may take care of maintenance yourself while your letting agent collects rent and finds referenced tenants. You may prefer a round-the-clock maintenance service for your property with a fully managed package. Whether you make a profit on the cost of your mortgage or not does not minimise your long-term return on investment.

Home improvements
As you pay off your mortgage and your home increases in value over the years, it’s earning money. You can accelerate this by improving it. Fitting a new kitchen can add up to 15%*** to the value of your home. A new bathroom may add 3%-5%.*** Simple things can also make a difference. Decorating, improving lighting, and the energy efficiency of your home are also effective ways to add value. Fitting solar panels, and selling excess energy back to your local electricity board, is another canny way to make a few extra pounds from your home.

Sell up; the market will help your home pay for itself
With the UK property market performing well, you could move and make a profit. In January 2005, the average house price in the UK stood at £150,633, in June 2023, it increased to £287,546.* Figures released in March, by Rightmove, suggest the average price of newly marketed properties was £368,118.** You could cash in on this equity to move, improve, or buy a second investment property. According to Zoopla, average sellers in the UK made £74,000 profit in 2023.*** With lowering interest rates and homemovers returning to the market in large numbers, the outlook remains positive.

Do you fancy moving to a home with more potential? Contact us today

Office for National Statistics*

Rightmove**

Zoopla***

Love Riot - Hearn Field | Fri 5 Jul 2024

Step into a world of etiquette, scandal and matchmaking, with this fresh new take on an 18th century rom-com from Cornwall’s Miracle Theatre.

Click here to read Love Riot - Hearn Field | Fri 5 Jul 2024.

William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet | 5 July 2025

Experience a re-imagined version of Shakespeare's classic tragedy, set in a gangland context. Performed by the award-winning South Devon Players Theatre & Film Company. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Click here to read William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet | 5 July 2025.

Daccabridge Road, Kingskerswell, TQ12

A superb, individual, four/five-bedroom detached home in a tucked-away village location boasting generous sized and beautifully...

£895,000

Click here to read Daccabridge Road, Kingskerswell, TQ12.

Golvers Hill Road, Kingsteignton, TQ12

With classical lines from its 1930s origins, a stunning, light-filled interior and with a first class detached annexe at the bottom...

£650,000

Click here to read Golvers Hill Road, Kingsteignton, TQ12.

The emotional side of moving: Why selling can feel like a fresh start

More than a transaction moving is a life moment

Selling a home is not just about bricks, mortar, and property chains. It is deeply personal. For many, the decision to move is driven more by feeling than practicality. It might be about starting a new chapter, responding to changing priorities, or simply seeking something different. This is especially true in summer, when longer days and a sense of momentum help people gain clarity and take action.

Whether the goal is more space for a growing family, a simpler lifestyle, or a fresh location for new opportunities, the reasons behind a move often come from the heart. Recognising that helps sellers approach the process with a sense of purpose and even a bit of excitement.

Summer inspires action

There is something about summer that encourages reflection and change. As the weather improves and routines shift, many people take stock of how they live and where they live.

Is the house still right for the family?

Do we use the space in the same way we did five years ago?

Do we need more room, less responsibility, or a new kind of setting?

It is no surprise that many homes come to market between May and August. The season offers longer days to prepare, more availability for viewings, and the motivation to embrace something new. Summer brings a natural sense of renewal, and for many, that begins at home.

A move can be about renewal, not just change

Selling a home can bring a wave of emotions. There is often a mix of nostalgia for the past and excitement for what lies ahead. Many people find that the process itself can be energising. It becomes a chance to reflect, reset, and release what no longer serves them - emotionally and practically.

Decluttering is not only helpful for presenting your home. It can also feel deeply rewarding. As you pack up your belongings, you also make room for new memories and new opportunities.

Helping others imagine their next chapter

When you are selling, it helps to remember that your home is not just part of your past. It is the beginning of someone else's future. Creating a welcoming atmosphere allows buyers to picture themselves living there. Small touches like a well-dressed bed, a tidy entrance, or the feeling of fresh air and light can make a powerful impression.

It is not just about what the house offers. It is about what it could become in someone else's life.

If you’re considering a fresh start this summer, speak to us today.

What sellers often overlook (and how to stand out in 2025)

First impressions start before the front door

In 2025, buyers are more discerning than ever. That does not mean you need a full renovation to make your home shine. In fact, it is often the smallest details that leave the biggest impression. From the moment a buyer pulls up outside, they begin forming an emotional connection with your home. So the question is, what are they noticing?

One of the most overlooked areas is kerb appeal. A tidy front garden, clean windows, and a freshly painted door can instantly change how your property is perceived. Buyers may only spend a few seconds walking to your entrance, but those few seconds matter. A property that looks well cared for on the outside sets the tone for what is to come inside.

Decluttering, but not just any decluttering

Sellers often hear they should declutter. But it is not about making your home look empty. It is about helping buyers see the space as somewhere they could live. That means removing personal items such as excessive family photos, while still keeping enough warmth and personality so the house feels like a home.

A well-placed armchair by a sunny window, a tidy bookshelf, or fresh flowers on a kitchen counter can help tell a story about how the space is used and enjoyed. Highlight how the home works day to day, not just how clean it looks on viewing day.

Lighting and layout matter more than you think

This year, buyers are very tuned in to lifestyle, and that includes how a property feels during a viewing. Harsh lighting, closed blinds, or dark corners can make even spacious rooms feel cold and uninviting. Let in as much natural light as possible, use warm lighting from lamps, and keep internal doors open to improve the sense of flow.

Do not forget rooms that are often ignored, such as utility spaces, hallways, or small bedrooms. A box room or dim entrance can be transformed with better lighting, a mirror, or a simple coat of neutral paint.

Don’t ignore the senses

Buyers do not just see a home - they hear and smell it too. Make sure windows open smoothly and quietly, keep pets out of the way during viewings, and ensure the space smells clean and fresh. Even a subtle scent like citrus or freshly laundered linen can leave a good impression.

In the end, buyers may not remember every measurement or room size, but they will remember how your home made them feel. A calm, bright, and inviting atmosphere will always stand out.

Want your home to stand out this year? Let’s get it market-ready together

What today’s buyers are really looking for (and it’s not just kitchens)

Selling a lifestyle, not just square footage
It is easy to assume that buyers are still laser focused on granite worktops or open plan kitchens. While these features do matter, they are no longer the only drivers behind decision making. Buyers today are prioritising how a home supports the life they want to live. Beyond fixtures and fittings, the most successful property sales now focus on the complete picture — comfort, community, flexibility, and future potential.

Modern buyers are asking, “Can I see myself living here?” more often than “What brand are the appliances?” That gives sellers a real opportunity to present their homes in ways that connect both emotionally and practically.

Work from home flexibility is still key
Hybrid working is here to stay. Many buyers expect homes with adaptable spaces - quiet corners, spare bedrooms, or multi use rooms that can double as offices. Highlight any features that support remote working, even if it is something simple like a landing with natural light and space for a desk.

If your home already caters to remote working with strong broadband, ergonomic setups, or even a garden office, make sure these are highlighted in your photography and during viewings.

Outdoor living and well-being appeal
Habits formed during the pandemic are continuing to influence what buyers want. Outdoor space remains a major attraction - not just for socialising, but for everyday well-being. Gardens, balconies, patios, and terraces are all highly desirable.

Even if your outdoor area is modest, you can enhance its appeal. Add a few potted plants, a small seating area, or gentle lighting to help buyers see it as a place to relax and recharge.

Walkability, community, and local flavour
Today’s buyers are not just looking for a property - they are looking for a place to belong. Local cafés, walking routes, independent shops, parks, and community feel all matter. If your home is in a welcoming area or close to popular spots, do not keep it a secret.

You are not only selling bricks and mortar. You are offering a lifestyle that includes morning coffee walks, weekend markets, and friendly neighbours.

Stage for the life they want to live
Styling your home to reflect the lifestyle buyers want can have a powerful effect. Dress your dining table with relaxed place settings, create a reading corner with a soft chair and lamp, or show a clear workspace that feels purposeful and calm. These touches are not just for show - they help people picture themselves in the space.

Buyers are looking beyond what a property is. They want to feel what it could become in their lives.

Have questions? We're here to help, contact us anytime

Why summer is still the season of serious buyers

From late May through August, we see a surge of motivated buyers who are not just browsing, but ready to act. Many are working to personal timelines, families looking to move before the new school year, buyers with mortgages in place, or professionals relocating during a quieter time at work. These aren’t speculative viewers; they’re serious about completing a move quickly.

Unlike winter browsers or spring dreamers, summer buyers tend to have a purpose. They’ve done their research, they’re financially prepared, and they’ve often already missed out on a property earlier in the year making them more decisive when they find the right one.

Longer days, better viewings

Summer naturally helps your property look its best. Gardens are in bloom, natural light floods into rooms, and the longer daylight hours make late evening viewings more practical. A bright, well-presented home stands out more in summer than in any other season, and that first impression can be the difference between a quick offer and a missed opportunity.

Open-plan kitchens, patios, and garden spaces really come into their own during the summer months. Buyers are more likely to visualise hosting guests, enjoying a barbecue, or relaxing in a sunny living space when they can experience it in full effect.

The lifestyle shift: Buyers with intent

Summer often marks a change in mindset. With holidays, school transitions, and job shifts happening during this period, buyers are actively looking for their “next chapter” property. Many are prepared to make strong offers to secure a home that lets them settle in before the autumn.

In particular, families with school-aged children aim to move and settle before the new term begins in September. This time-sensitive group tends to act swiftly, especially in competitive markets like we’re seeing in 2025. They don’t want delays and are more likely to put their best offer forward early to avoid losing out.

Getting summer-ready: Your sales advantage

If you’re thinking about selling, summer remains one of the best windows to get your home in front of motivated, ready-to-proceed buyers. Simple things like garden maintenance, fresh paintwork, and light decluttering go a long way in making your property appeal to summer viewers.

Combine great presentation with a well-timed listing, and you’ll be perfectly placed to catch the attention of buyers who are serious about making a move before summer’s end.

Make your move this summer, book a valuation with our sales team today