The definition of the word ‘clean’ can vary from person to person, which is why most deposit disputes between landlords and tenants arise around the end of tenancy cleaning. It is the tenant’s responsibility to hand the property back over to the landlord in the same condition they found it in on move-in day, and most would prefer to do so without having to fork out for professional cleaning.

Tenants are not obligated to pay for professionals to clean the property if it is left in good condition. This is why a ‘deep clean’ is pinnacle, as dust and dirt can collect in every nook and cranny and is easy to miss during everyday clean-ups. Once you’ve packed up your personal items, you should tick all of these key cleaning steps off your checklist before handing the keys over:

Planning in advance

Cleaning an entire property from top to bottom can feel overwhelming, so it’s important to start planning early and budgeting for any necessary equipment. A deep clean will take more planning and effort than a typical spring clean, so make sure you allow yourself enough time, and factor in how long cleaning will take on top of your move.

One step at a time

The larger tasks in each room might call for your attention first and foremost, but the best protocol is to take things one room at a time. This way, you won’t find yourself overwhelmed and burnt-out early into the process, as cleaning from one room to the next allows a sense of order and you won’t end up forgetting the smaller details which matter just as much.

Deep cleaning

It’s best to make sure the property is completely empty before completing a deep clean, as personal items can get in the way, and you might end up having to go over the same areas more than once. A deep clean can match the results of professional cleaning if you put in the effort and attend to all of the essential tasks, these can include:

• Mopping floors and tiles
• Hoovering and steaming carpets and rugs
• Cleaning and polishing taps and other water fittings
• Removing cobwebs from walls, ceiling, and skirting boards
• Cleaning windows, doors, and handles
• Degreasing the hob, oven, and all components
• Dusting and polishing surfaces, such as tables and sideboards
• Removing limescale from sinks, showers, and bathtubs
• Scrubbing and disinfecting the toilet
• Removing mould from walls and tiles
• Wiping down kitchen cabinets and countertops
• Cleaning all appliances (kettles, toaster, and microwave etc)
• Emptying and cleaning the fridge and freezer
• Cleaning out large appliances like washing machines or dishwashers
• Emptying and cleaning bins (inside and outside ones)
• Sweeping and tidying outside areas
• Hoovering mattresses and sofa cushions

Check the cupboards and drawers

A kitchen can appear clean at a glance, but once you start opening things up, you’ll probably find that there is more work to be done. Make sure all the cupboards and drawers are completely empty and clear of any food residue or marks left by pots and pans. Try sticking to gentle cleaners such as dish soap and water as harsh chemicals, and too much water can damage the cabinets. 

Defrost and descale

If your landlord provided the property with white goods, it’s your responsibility to leave them in the condition you found them in. You can descale the kettle by filling it with equal parts white vinegar and water and bringing it to a boil. As for the freezer, use disinfectant to ensure it’s completely clean before unplugging and leaving the door open to allow any ice build-up to melt.

If you’re considering the points within this article, you may be on the hunt for your next rental property. Browse the homes we have available here.

The housing market once again exceeds expectations after a poor reception from the chancellor’s mini-budget and regular talk of a possible slowdown, as current research suggests that in 2022, almost a third (31%) of properties are now receiving offers within an hour, compared to a mere 7% in 2018.

Over a five-year period, almost one in five (17%) properties received an offer within one hour of a viewing. An even more notable 7% of buyers made an offer on a property without attending an in-person viewing, according to data from MPowered Mortgages.

The data also outlined that properties receiving an offer in a day is up over the same period, rising from 26% in 2018, to almost half (48%) by 2022. Around 12% of homes have received an offer without a viewing this year, which could be a result of social norms shifting in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, where remote/virtual viewings became the new normal. The data showed a substantial jump in buying without viewing, up from 7% in 2018.

Strong demand and competitive buyers

To find out more about current buying behaviour, the fintech mortgage lender has launched a House Pace Index, driven by market conditions, government intervention within the property market, and consumer behaviour of wanting to ‘buy now’.

The research revealed that 38% of properties that have been placed on the market in the last five years received an offer within the same day of a viewing, with only 14% securing an offer after a second viewing.

The data also suggests that the younger generation are most prepared out of all age groups to take a more eager approach, with 18–34-year-olds acknowledged as most likely to adopt this mindset towards house buying. Some admitted to making an offer before seeing a property, in comparison to just 5% of 35–54-year-olds.

The average age of a first-time-buyer in the UK currently sits at 34, which is why this age group being quick to act could be pinned down to a lack of experience, coupled with fewer mortgage deals available on the market, the study suggested.

Tunnel vision

The data from Mpowered Mortgages also showed that, before making a first offer, buyers are seeing an average of three properties, while 40% of buyers only view two properties before deciding to make an offer on the home they set their sights on.

Pressure on buyers resulting in quick offers

The market is thriving with historical rates of activity as buyers race to secure their ideal property in the midst of a chronic imbalance between supply and demand. The current market climate and data findings show that offers are being made extremely quickly, despite common belief that a ‘slow-down’ is on the horizon.

Stuart Cheetham, CEO at MPowered Mortgages, commented:

“The race to find a home can be a daunting prospect even more so now in an environment where mortgage rates are rising as part of the cost of living. Of the many hurdles a homebuyer faces, one element that can be largely controlled is the certainty of their mortgage and this will be even more important as rates continue to rise.” 

Considering selling? Take advantage of the buoyant market and get in touch with us today to book your valuation.

Every decade brings along a new wave of first-time buyers, and this time around, millennials are on the market. To help you draw in this new pool of potential buyers, we’ve found the top features that most millennials will seek out in their ideal homes…

Sustainable and eco-friendly

Most modern buyers will be deterred by poor energy efficiency, as the impact it has on the environment (and monthly bills) is becoming a notoriously unattractive factor. Millennials want to reduce their carbon footprints as much as possible in their homes – from air source heat pumps to solar panels – even if this means pushing out the budget a little further. Homes that offer energy saving solutions are hot on the market for younger buyers and will become increasingly more valuable over time.

Good value for money

Millennials will want to know that their bills are being kept to a minimal while also having a home that caters to their every needs. These types of buyers will be new to the house buying process and might still be finding their financial feet, so being careful with money and making responsible choices is key. Often, they are also savvy about the schemes that are available to help them onto the ladder, and switched-on about which properties will cost more to run.

Visual appeal

Even while the market experiences unprecedented levels of short supply, millennial buyers are known for being selective about properties based on their appearance. They’re also drawn to visuals, and many will expect video tours to be available on the listings they browse, before committing to a booking. The information provided on the listing should also be as thorough as possible, as millennials like to know all the ins-and-outs of a property before attending a viewing. They will also undoubtedly read reviews online beforehand.

Location

Millennials will prefer to be in the heart of a great location, surrounded by a good community and local amenities for convenience. With many young buyers on the market being remote workers, location has become more important than ever before. The working from home buyer will seek out a quiet, scenic spot, with enough local shops and footpaths close by to fill up the lunch hour. While a commuting buyer will want a spot right in the city, with good commuter links and plenty of amenities available for the morning rush.

Convenience

After years of apartment living, millennial buyers will be highly attracted to a house which offers good storage space. Laundry rooms and pantries may also be important to these buyers, and they are likely to be attracted to a ‘ready-to-go’ home complete with all appliances, if it comes within budget.

Do you have a property that ticks all of these boxes? We could have a buyer waiting for you. Get in touch with us today to discuss the local demand for properties like yours.

As autumn sets in and the end of the year approaches, landlords across the UK are gearing up to fill their rental properties before the holiday season arrives. Finding a tenant before December can present some unique challenges, so here’s a comprehensive guide to help you secure a tenant quickly and efficiently.

Prepare your property

First impressions count, so make sure your property is in top condition to attract potential tenants. Spend some time on necessary repairs, touch-ups, and deep cleaning. Additionally, you could consider enhancing kerb appeal with some eye-catching seasonal decorations or a welcoming wreath on the front door.

Set an attractive rent

An agent can help you set an attractive rent by researching current market rates in your area to establish a competitive rental price. While maximising profit is important, pricing too high can deter potential tenants. Be realistic and consider offering incentives such as utilities included or a reduced first month's rent to attract quality applicants.

Utilise online listings

A letting agent can utilise their online presence and take advantage of various online platforms to advertise your property. They will use high-quality photos and detailed descriptions to grab the attention of their network of potential tenants. 

Screen applicants thoroughly

Once inquiries start coming in, applicants should be screened rigorously. A letting agent can handle the process for you by requesting references from previous landlords and conducting employment verification and credit checks. This ensures that potential tenants meet your criteria for reliability and financial stability.

Offer flexible terms

Consider offering flexible agreement terms to attract a wider range of tenants. Short-term tenancy agreements or month-to-month options can appeal to tenants seeking temporary accommodation or unsure of their long-term plans.

Provide excellent customer service

Respond promptly to inquiries and maintain clear communication throughout the application process. A positive landlord-tenant relationship often begins with a smooth and professional interaction. Opting for a fully managed package means your tenants are taken care of by professionals from the offset, which can be an invaluable service if you operate on a busy schedule.

Stay informed about legal requirements

Ensure you comply with all legal requirements and regulations regarding rental properties in your area. Stay updated on tenant rights, eviction procedures, and safety standards to avoid potential legal issues.

Enlist the help of a letting agent

If managing the rental process becomes overwhelming, consider hiring a letting agent to help you with all aspects of property management. They can handle marketing, tenant screening, tenancy agreements, and ongoing management tasks on your behalf.

Choosing your next property is a big decision, and you will have many questions during a viewing. These questions could be the answer to finding the right rental property, and they will help guide you during your search.

Do you like the location? 

Location is key when you are searching for your next home. Practical considerations such as your proximity to work, transport links, or excellent social amenities will help inform your decisions. But it’s also vital to ask yourself: What do you want from your next home's location? Is it important to be close to the countryside and vibrant towns and cities?

Is the kitchen in good order?

There's nothing wrong with running a tap to check the water pressure. How energy efficient are the appliances, and are they in good working order? Take a look at the cupboard spaces, as well as the condition of the walls. Check what is included as you would in any other room of the house.

Are the bedrooms right for your needs?

Are the bedrooms spacious enough for your needs? Is there scope to decorate? It’s important to define the boundaries here. If beds are included, you might want to inspect them thoroughly. It's also worth checking windows for drafts and areas around curtains for telltale signs of poor ventilation.

What should you look out for in the bathroom?

The bathroom's general cleanliness, from grouting between the tiles to the condition of the ceiling, is critical. Look carefully for evidence of mould. Extractor fans can be essential to keeping bathrooms in tip-top shape and can sometimes hide evidence of poor ventilation. That said, tenants should also play their part by opening windows regularly.

What does the property's exterior look like?

Whether you are renting a city apartment or a property in the suburbs, don’t neglect to take a thorough look around outside. Small and large outdoor spaces are equally important considerations. Do you have the time to maintain a large garden, or will it be maintained for you? Perhaps a characterful yet compact outdoor space that is perfect for winding down after a long day is exactly what you're looking for.

Final thoughts 

Take full advantage of your agent’s knowledge and expertise; that’s what they’re there for. Some properties benefit from round-the-clock maintenance support. Even without this in place, you will benefit from expert guidance when renting through a reputable agent. Renting this way will allow you to feel at ease and provide you with all the right information you need to make a confident choice.

As we head towards the winter months, now is the optimum time for landlords to prepare their properties for the harsher weather. Spending time and effort winterising your properties now could prevent future problems and save money further down the line. Here’s our winter property guide for landlords.

Service your boiler 

The number one priority for every landlord should be checking that the boiler in your property (or properties) is in good condition, as repair costs can be extremely expensive. Book a boiler service to ensure that everything is working correctly and safely, as boilers can easily break down when turned on and used in the colder months. 

Insulate pipes 

Adding insulation to your pipes is a worthwhile measure that will prevent them from freezing or bursting due to the cold. Focus on pipes in external areas and lofts, which may be subject to the most extreme temperatures, and problems should be avoided as the cold sets in. 

Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms 

In line with regulations from October 2015, a smoke alarm must be installed on each floor of a rental property – now is the perfect time to double check these are in good working order. If your rental property has a fireplace (or solid fuel appliance), then additional carbon monoxide alarms must be fitted in the same room, as the chances of these items being used increase astronomically in winter.

Inspect the roof 

Chipped, cracked, or dislodged tiles on your roof could lead to significant water damage, and in cold temperatures, this can lead to structural issues with water freezing and expanding. Double-check that your roof is in tiptop condition to prevent any issues in the future.

Clean the gutters

While you take time checking any issues on your roof, be sure to check your guttering and clear them out to avoid blockages and breakages when the inevitable rain falls. By not having your guttering cleaned regularly, you are making your property vulnerable to drainage issues, which could lead to larger problems in the future.

Seal any draughts or air leaks

Air leaks can crop up over summer, leaving your home ill-prepared for the cold winter. This will increase the energy bill for you or your tenants, so by inspecting windows, doors, or any other vulnerable spots and sealing them up with caulk, you can ensure to provide a warm and energy-efficient home.

Provide winter emergency supplies

Equip your rental property with essential winter emergency supplies to ensure your tenants feel safe in your property. This can be a first aid kit, a torch, or even a shovel for the scenario of becoming snowed in. Providing these will create peace of mind for you and your tenants.

As the year draws to a close and the festive season approaches, it’s common to feel the pressure of keeping your space tidy and organised.

But beyond simply creating a more comfortable living environment, decluttering and optimising storage can also have a significant impact on your property's value and appeal, which can help if you're considering selling in the new year.

Here are six storage solutions that not only help you manage your belongings but also enhance your home's marketability.

Loft space

With a bit of creativity, lofts can become a useful storage space and major selling point. By turning your loft into an organised, accessible storage solution, you can not only make your life much easier but also increase the value of your property. Installing sturdy shelving and proper flooring makes your loft a safe and practical place to store decorations, suitcases, or unused items. 

Built-in wardrobes

Freestanding wardrobes can be bulky and take up valuable floor space. A solution to this is installing a built-in wardrobe, which can be customised to fit your needs and bedroom designs. The sleek, modern look of built-in wardrobes also helps to increase property value, which is key if you decide to sell your property.

Under-stair storage

The space under the stairs is often overlooked, but it presents a great opportunity to create a clever storage solution. Installing pull-out drawers, shelving, or even a small coat cupboard can ensure you make the most of the space, making more room for furniture or festive decorations.

Organise kitchen cupboards

Kitchens can become cluttered with gadgets and ingredients, especially at Christmas time. Eating leftover snacks, discarding out-of-date ingredients, and organising your cabinets can help make cooking Christmas dinner and baking festive treats much easier.

Invest in bathroom storage

Bathrooms are often short on storage, so adding shelving, a vanity unit with drawers, or wall-mounted cabinets can transform your space. Keeping toiletries, towels, and cleaning products neatly stored away helps make even the smallest of bathrooms feel larger.

Outdoor storage solutions for garden essentials

If you have a garden, outdoor storage solutions are a must. A garden shed can help you neatly store tools, outdoor furniture, or children’s toys, leaving your garden looking tidy. Keeping the exterior of your property free of clutter improves kerb appeal and demonstrates to buyers that the outdoor space is low-maintenance, which could add value to your home.