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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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 **

 

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.

 

 

 

 

A buyer’s market but still your moment
With a noticeable increase in available properties this summer, buyers are enjoying more choice than they’ve had in months. From charming cottages to modern townhouses, there’s something for every taste and budget. But for sellers, this abundance can make standing out feel like a tall order. The good news? It doesn’t take dramatic measures to make a property unforgettable; it just takes the right moves.

First impressions, lasting impact
Buyers begin their journey online, and within seconds, your listing is being judged. Professional photographs are no longer a luxury - they’re your first line of attraction. Show off bright, airy spaces, tidy gardens, and welcoming entrances. Your description should go beyond the basics: instead of “three-bedroom semi,” try “sun-filled family home with garden views and weekend potential.” Create a mood, not just a list.

Elevate your presentation
In a market with more choice, details matter. Small investments in fresh paint, decluttering, or dressing a spare room as a home office can lift a property from forgettable to desirable. A clean, cared-for home tells buyers that you’ve looked after the space - making it easier for them to imagine living there.

Sell the lifestyle, not just the layout
Today’s buyers are not just buying walls and windows, they’re investing in a lifestyle. Think beyond the floorplan: Is there a sunny corner perfect for morning coffee? A kitchen island where homework and dinner happen together? A garden that comes alive with evening BBQs? These touches tell the story of a home, not just a house.

Target your audience with purpose
Who is most likely to fall in love with your home? Young professionals, growing families, retirees? Once you know, tailor your presentation and marketing to them. Highlight school catchment areas, nearby transport links, or low-maintenance features, depending on who you’re trying to reach.

Be flexible, be remembered
In a market where buyers have options, being easy to work with goes a long way. Quick responses, flexible viewing times, and openness to discussion make a strong impression. The buyer who remembers your home for the right reasons is more likely to come back with an offer.

Making choice work for you
Yes, buyers have more options - but that doesn't mean your property can’t be the one they choose. With a thoughtful strategy and attention to the details that matter, you can make your home the standout story in a sea of listings.

Showcase your home with standout appeal

Spotting Hidden Gems in Today’s Property Market

In today’s competitive property market, finding a hidden gem isn’t just about luck, it’s about looking beyond the surface and recognising potential where others might not. With demand high, many buyers rush to the properties that are immediately attractive or perfectly polished, but often, the most rewarding investments lie in homes that need a little vision or elbow grease.

Here’s how you can spot a diamond in the rough, and what to look for in a property that’s worth more than the asking price.

1. Look for properties with potential, not perfection

A freshly renovated property may seem tempting, but it often comes with a higher price tag and you’re paying for someone else’s design choices. Instead, focus on homes that might need a bit of TLC. A dated kitchen or overgrown garden doesn’t mean the property isn’t worth your attention.

• Dated décor: Cosmetic changes may be needed (new flooring, paint, or light fixtures), but the underlying structure is sound.
• Neglected gardens or exteriors: Homes that have been overlooked can be improved with some investment of time and money.
• Old fittings: Bathrooms or kitchens showing age can be negotiation points, helping secure the property at a better price.

2. Focus on location over style

While interiors are tempting, location delivers long-term value. A home in a great area, even if rough around the edges, will always outperform a stylish home in a less desirable location.

• In up-and-coming areas where prices are likely to increase.
• Near transport links, shops, schools, or parks.
• In quieter outskirts that offer potential for development.

3. Uncover opportunities for expansion or renovation

Look for homes that allow you to add value over time—extensions, loft conversions, or space for extra features like a garden office or garage. Even if the layout isn’t ideal, consider whether walls can be moved or space rearranged.

• Large gardens or plots suitable for extension.
• Layouts that can be easily reworked.
• Larger-than-average footprints compared to other homes in the area.

4. Don’t shy away from homes with structural issues

Structural issues can sometimes be negotiable. Properties with foundation or roofing problems may come at a lower price, and investing in repairs can significantly increase value. Always commission a professional survey to understand the full scope and costs.

5. Trust your instincts and be patient

Don’t rush into a deal. The best hidden gems often require patience. If a property feels special but needs work, consider the long-term potential. Careful evaluation pays off more than hasty decisions.

Ready to find your hidden gem? Contact us to explore the opportunities waiting for you.

Key Questions First-Time Buyers Should Ask

Buying your first home can be overwhelming, and working with an estate agent may feel intimidating. They’re the professionals, so it’s easy to assume they know best. But remember, this is your investment, and you have every right to ask the tough questions. Asking the right things will give you the confidence to make the right choice and avoid surprises.

1. Why is the seller moving?

Understanding the seller’s motivation can reveal potential negotiation opportunities or hidden issues.

What to do:

• Listen for any red flags, such as frustration with the house or neighbourhood.
• Knowing the motivation helps you manage expectations and strategy.

2. How long has the property been on the market?

A property lingering on the market might indicate overpricing or underlying problems, while a new listing may require fast action.

What to do:

• Ask if the price has been reduced after a long listing period.
• This can indicate willingness to negotiate or highlight unresolved issues.

3. Are there any ongoing issues with the property?

Beyond aesthetics, hidden issues can significantly impact costs and future planning.

What to do:

• Request details of repairs or maintenance history.
• Ask about disputes, planning issues, or unresolved property problems.

4. What’s included in the sale?

Don’t assume items like appliances or furniture come with the property.

What to do:

• Clarify which items are included, e.g., white goods, wardrobes.
• Get a list of included items in writing if not specified.

5. What’s the neighbourhood really like?

Local insights beyond property listings can influence your decision significantly.

What to do:

• Ask about local amenities, transport links, and community vibe.
• Visit at different times to assess traffic, noise, and atmosphere.

6. Are there any other interested buyers?

Knowing the level of interest helps you decide how competitive your offer should be.

What to do:

• Ask if any offers are already on the table.
• Set a budget and be prepared to act quickly if multiple buyers are involved.

7. Can you provide a copy of the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

The EPC shows the home’s energy efficiency, which affects future bills and potential improvements.

What to do:

• Request the EPC and review the energy efficiency rating.
• If the rating is low, ask about past improvements or upgrades that could enhance efficiency.

Taking charge of the process

Asking the right questions is crucial for first-time buyers. While estate agents are there to assist, staying proactive ensures you have all the information before committing. With the right questions, you can move forward confidently and make sure the property meets your expectations now and in the future.

Ready to find your dream home with confidence?

Get in touch today, and let’s start the search together!

Styling Your Home to Stand Out

When selling your home, styling can help potential buyers imagine themselves living there. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune. Simple, budget-friendly updates can make your property more appealing and memorable.

1. Neutral tones with a pop of colour

Neutral shades like whites, greys, and warm taupes appeal to a wide range of buyers. Adding a pop of colour keeps the space fresh and contemporary.

What to do:

• Add colourful cushions, throws, or art prints for vibrancy.
• Consider an accent wall in soft tones like navy, deep green, or mustard for warmth.

2. Declutter and simplify

Minimalism is key. Buyers want to see space, not clutter, allowing rooms to feel larger and inviting.

What to do:

• Declutter every room, especially kitchens and bathrooms.
• Keep furniture simple and avoid overcrowding.
• Organise storage spaces – tidy cupboards and closets.

3. Natural materials and textures

Incorporating wood, stone, or rattan adds warmth and a connection to nature.

What to do:

• Refurbish or polish wooden furniture to restore natural beauty.
• Add woven rugs, rattan furniture, or stone accents to introduce texture.

4. Statement lighting

Well-lit spaces feel bright and airy. A statement light can also act as a focal point.

What to do:

• Upgrade fixtures with pendant lights or modern chandeliers in living or dining areas.
• Combine functional, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered, welcoming feel.

5. Open shelving for kitchens and bathrooms

Open shelving makes spaces feel larger and showcases storage potential.

What to do:

• Display stylish plates, glasses, or plants on kitchen shelves.
• Use open bathroom shelves for neatly arranged towels or decorative items.

6. Indoor plants for a fresh touch

Plants add colour, freshness, and a calming atmosphere.

What to do:

• Place low-maintenance plants like succulents, snake plants, or peace lilies around the home.
• Use planters that match your décor – ceramic, concrete, or wicker for a cohesive look.

7. Cosy, inviting bedrooms

Bedrooms should feel like a sanctuary, calm and welcoming.

What to do:

• Use crisp white bedding with subtle textures, adding a throw or cushions for comfort.
• Keep nightstands clutter-free and choose stylish lamps or minimalist décor.

8. Smart home features

Modern buyers value convenience and energy efficiency through smart technology.

What to do:

• Install smart lighting, thermostats, or security systems where possible.
• Highlight energy-efficient features like double-glazing or LED lighting.

Small updates, big impact

Interior styling doesn’t require a costly renovation. Simple changes like refreshing décor, adding plants, and updating lighting can help buyers envision themselves living comfortably in your home.

Ready to make your home stand out?

Let’s talk about simple styling updates that will make all the difference.

A Bold Move for Affordable Housing

The UK government is aiming to tackle the housing crisis head-on by fast-tracking the approval and construction of major housing projects. With a focus on affordable homes, this move aims to increase the supply of housing across the country, particularly for first-time buyers and renters struggling with rising property prices.

Fast-tracking these big projects will make it easier for developers to get planning permissions and avoid the usual delays, potentially speeding up the process of delivering much-needed homes.

Why Fast-Tracking Matters

The UK faces a severe shortage of affordable homes, and demand continues to outpace supply. Housing prices have risen dramatically, and many buyers, especially first-time buyers, are finding it increasingly difficult to afford a home. The government's initiative to fast-track construction projects is designed to increase the supply of homes quickly, making housing more accessible.

• Increase the number of affordable homes quickly.
• Speed up construction timelines by cutting through bureaucratic delays.
• Ensure that large-scale housing projects are completed on time to meet growing demand.

What This Means for Buyers and Renters

• For buyers, the government’s plan could lead to more affordable housing options. With more homes being built, buyers may have more choice and a better chance to find a home that suits their budget. This could also help lower property prices in areas where supply has been particularly limited.
• For renters, the increased availability of homes could lead to lower rents as the market becomes more balanced. As supply increases, the pressure on the rental market may decrease, potentially easing costs for tenants.

Supporting Affordable Housing Initiatives

• Streamlined planning permissions for large housing projects.
• Financial support for developments focused on affordable housing.
• A focus on creating sustainable communities with integrated infrastructure such as schools, public transport, and green spaces.

These efforts are crucial for tackling the lack of affordable housing and ensuring that more people can access quality homes at prices they can afford.

Challenges to Overcome

• Land availability: Suitable land for development remains a scarce resource in some areas.
• Skilled workforce: The construction skills shortage could delay projects if there aren’t enough workers to meet demand.
• Infrastructure needs: Large-scale developments require significant investment in local infrastructure, which could cause delays if not properly planned.

The government’s decision to fast-track major housing projects is a step towards addressing the UK’s housing crisis. By speeding up the construction of affordable homes, the initiative promises to provide more options for both buyers and renters. While challenges remain, the fast-tracking process is a critical move to ensure that the UK can meet the growing demand for housing and provide people with homes they can afford.

Thinking about buying or renting?

Contact us today to get the latest insights and advice on navigating the housing market