Welcome to your monthly property update!

Will the property market slow down?

The last few years have seen a sharp hike in house prices across the country, but can this rise be sustained? While recent data from the Land Registry shows house prices were up by 12% since April last year, some believe we’re heading towards a slowdown.

So, what’s going on? While the market spiked in 2021 thanks to the well-publicised stamp duty holiday – fuelling sales as buyers rushed to save significant sums of money – it calmed over the winter of 2021 before slowly rising again across the UK.*

However, in May this year, the number of sales returned to levels seen just before the onset of the pandemic. But what has driven this reversal?

The cost of living crisis appears to be playing its part by straining household budgets. Combine this with rising house prices and mortgage interest rates, and you have a recipe for dampening buyers’ spending power.

This doesn’t necessarily mean prices will fall dramatically. Big names across the industry – such as Propertymark and Rightmove – are still reporting a mismatch between demand and supply, which is keeping prices buoyant for now. All in all, experts predict that prices may only increase by between 1–5% over the next year or two.**

What does this mean if you’re planning to sell? The good news for homeowners is that no one expects prices to plunge over the medium to long-term. But if you’re hoping to maximise your sale price, striking while the iron’s hot may pay off.

Our team is ready to provide tailored advice that reflects your unique situation. Contact us today to discuss your options and book a valuation.

*Based on data provided by HMRC (June 2022).

**Predictions provided by Rightmove, Zoopla

Lower interest rates for high EPC-rated properties

The Real Estate Finance division of Secure Trust Bank has launched a new funding initiative to encourage investment in energy-efficient homes. The new Green Investment Loan is welcome news to property investors facing pressure from the Government’s plans to raise energy efficiency standards in homes across the nation.

But how does the loan work, and who will it benefit? Firstly, it’s only available to those planning to buy or refinance a residential property. The property in question must also feature an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A–C for 90% of its floor area.

In return, the Secure Bank Trust will lend between £2–65m at a lower interest rate of 2.95% over the Bank of England, amounting to a Loan to Value (LTV) rate of up to 60%. This rate can rise to 3.1% for an LTV of 65%.

When the scheme first opened, it achieved £150m of investment for 525 energy-efficient properties over a six-month period. The STB is once again hoping to make raising EPC ratings a more profitable enterprise for everyone involved.

Many buy-to-let mortgage providers are also falling in line by offering more competitive rates for landlords looking to invest in efficient homes. This is ideal if you’re thinking about building your property portfolio or improving your home with a view to rent or sell.

Our specialist team can advise you about local investment opportunities and how to increase your property’s EPC rating. Get in touch with us today.

More landlords are needed to help tenants find homes

You may have heard how well the sales market has performed over the past couple of years, pushing prices up 12.4% nationally*. The rental market has followed hot on the heels of this trend, with around three tenants currently vying for each property.**

Compared to the previous year, the number of available rental homes has dropped by 9%, which has nudged up the average price by £150 per calendar month.*** This means tenants now pay around £1,088 outside of London or £2,193 PCM in the capital.

But what’s driving this steep increase in demand? There are several factors involved. Rising house prices may force tenants to rent for longer than planned, meaning fewer homes are circulating on the market. Almost a fifth of landlords report tenants are staying put for longer than in previous years.****

In addition, concern over upcoming rental reforms has prompted some landlords to take their properties off the market. Dwindling stock further encourages tenants to remain in their current rental while they search for somewhere else to live.

The fallout from the pandemic has also muddied the waters, with many people choosing to move back to urban centres or escape to the country to work remotely. The latter is partly responsible for the intense pressures faced by tenants in popular rural hotspots.

Without more landlords joining the market to ease supply, many people may be forced to stay in unsuitable accommodation, leave their local areas, or even risk homelessness.

The good news is that if you have a property to spare, now is a great time to get involved and reap the long-term rewards a solid rental income can provide. This is especially true if you’re letting in areas recently boosted by the Elizabeth Line or where supply is strained.

Curious about how much your rental property is worth in the current market? Our friendly team is ready and waiting to book your lettings valuation.

*UK House Price Index (ONS: April 2022).

**According to a recent report by Property Reporter

**Data from TwentyCI and Rightmove (early 2021 to early 2022).

****Property Reporter (June 2022).

The ultimate end of tenancy cleaning guide

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.

Three things landlords offering ‘bills included’ tenancies should know

As the cost-of-living spikes, landlords and tenants involved in ‘bills included’ rental contracts will need to communicate clearly with one another in order to grapple with the new host of challenges. As for landlords offering bills included in their monthly rental fees, there are three key things to consider…

Landlords should avoid confusion on government’s £400 rebate

The former Chancellor recently announced that households across the UK can expect a £400 grant this autumn to help out with soaring energy bills. There is also further assistance available for the most vulnerable. But when it comes to rental properties, the tenants will need to be aware that the £400 rebate will go directly to the bill payer, which will be the landlord in instances where the cost of utilities is included in their monthly rental fee.

Most landlords will retain the payment to help alleviate the growing costs of the energy and water bills that they are paying on behalf of their tenants. In the case that tenants have misunderstood the government’s helpful scheme, they might expect that the rebate is to be paid to them, even if they don’t pay utility bills directly. Agents and landlords can avoid this by communicating their plans and the reasoning behind them well in advance to ensure tenants don’t feel as though they have been left in the dark on the situation, and the next steps are clear.

Landlords may need to be clear about costs

As announced by The National Trading Standards (NTS) during May 2022, there are new changes to the rules around the material information that letting and estate agents should include in listings through property portals and their own sites. This means that tenants must be provided clarity on their "unavoidable costs" of renting the property. This includes council tax bands, deposits, and the price of rent. As the new rules are expanded, the regulations will soon cover additional areas such as utility set-ups or information detailing flood risk status.

In light of this, landlords offering ‘bills included’ tenancies will need to be upfront about costs and any variations in prices that may occur during the contract. All of this information will need to be communicated to the tenant explicitly and upfront by the agents, rather than on request.

Now might be the perfect time to invest in energy efficiency

New Government legislation entails that by 2025, private sector landlords will have to ensure that their rental properties adhere to the required energy efficiency rating of ‘C’ or above on new tenancies. The UK is also set to ban gas boilers in all new build properties, starting from the same year. Due to this, landlords will need to boost the energy efficiency of their portfolios as soon as possible in order to keep up with changing legislation.

Arguably, with the lettings market retaining unparalleled buoyancy, and demand for rental properties reaching record highs, now is the best time to invest in existing stock ahead of the regulatory changes. Likewise, more energy efficient housing supply, would reduce the overheads for landlords who offer bills-included tenancies.

Visit our website today to browse our available properties.

One in three properties receive an offer one hour after viewing

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.

What are millennials looking for in a property?

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.

Castle to Castle Ultra 36Saturday 20th July 2024

Welcome to the Castle to Castle Ultra, an extraordinary endurance event that spans 36 challenging miles from the majestic Lancaster Castle to the historic Clitheroe Castle.

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Is your property ‘move-in ready’? What that really means today

Today’s buyers and tenants want simplicity

Buyers and tenants this year, are busier and more informed than ever. When searching for a new home, they’re looking for spaces that feel complete from day one. That’s where “move-in ready” comes in a phrase you’ll hear often in property conversations. But what does it actually mean today?

Simply put, move-in ready means there are no big jobs, no lingering repairs, and no stressful surprises. The space is clean, well-presented, and ready to be lived in. For sellers and landlords, achieving this can give you a valuable edge in a competitive summer market.

The basics are still the most important

The first step to move-in ready? Get the basics right. That means:

A thorough professional clean from top to bottom

All appliances working and in good condition

Functional plumbing and electrics

Fresh, neutral décor that allows the new occupant to visualise their own style

No visible repairs needed no peeling paint, broken handles, or loose tiles

Even small flaws can cause buyers or tenants to hesitate or negotiate on price.

Kitchens and bathrooms lead the list

If there are two areas where buyers and tenants expect excellence, it’s the kitchen and bathroom. These spaces signal how well a home has been looked after.

You don’t necessarily need a full renovation. Even smaller updates like replacing dated cabinet handles, adding new sealant, or updating lighting can elevate the look dramatically.

For landlords, making sure these spaces feel hygienic and modern can reduce void periods and encourage long-term tenants to stay.

Energy efficiency and extras are a bonus

Move-in ready also means energy efficient. Buyers and tenants are increasingly conscious of running costs and environmental impact. Good insulation, double-glazed windows, and energy-efficient appliances are all major plus points.

Extras like smart thermostats, secure bike storage, or even thoughtful landscaping add appeal without requiring major investment.

Presentation matters

Staging and presentation go hand in hand with move-in ready. Sellers should consider how furniture layout, lighting, and décor can enhance flow and showcase space. Landlords should focus on clean, functional, and inviting interiors that allow new tenants to immediately feel at home.

First impressions still count so don’t forget the kerb appeal. A tidy front garden, freshly painted front door, and clean windows can set the perfect tone before anyone steps inside.

The reward? A faster, smoother move

Properties that are truly move-in ready tend to sell or let faster and with fewer complications. Buyers and tenants appreciate not having to organise tradespeople or budget for urgent fixes before they can settle in.

If you want to get ahead this summer, a little preparation now could be the difference between weeks on the market and a smooth, successful transaction.

Thinking of selling or letting this summer? Let’s help you get your property move-in ready

Making moving day less stressful

Moving day doesn’t have to be mayhem

If you ask most people what they dread about moving, it’s not choosing the new place it’s the big day itself. Boxes everywhere, endless lists, lost keys, and last-minute panics can make even the most organised movers feel frazzled. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

With a little preparation and a few mindset shifts, moving day can be far calmer than you think. Here’s how to make it happen.

1. Start earlier than you think you need to

Packing always takes longer than expected. Start at least two weeks before moving day. Begin with things you don’t use daily - books, seasonal clothes, spare bedding. Label every box by room and jot down a quick list of what’s inside. It’ll save hours of frustration later.

If you’re renting, don’t forget to allow time for any cleaning or repairs to ensure you get your full deposit back.

2. Book your moving help in advance

Whether you’re hiring professional movers, renting a van, or relying on friends and family, confirm your help as early as possible—especially in the busy summer moving season. Movers often get booked weeks ahead, so lock in your date early.

Even with helpers, plan a simple structure for the day: who’s loading what, who’s managing essentials, and what needs to be done first at the new place.

3. Create a ‘first day’ essentials box

This is a moving day lifesaver. Pack a separate box or bag with the things you’ll need immediately:

Kettle, mugs, tea/coffee

Snacks and water

Phone chargers

Toilet paper

Bed sheets and towels

Cleaning supplies

Important documents

Having these to hand will give you breathing space before tackling the rest of the unpacking.

4. Accept that not everything has to be perfect

The biggest cause of moving stress? Expecting the day to run perfectly. It won’t and that’s ok. Things will take longer, unexpected hiccups will happen, and you might not be fully unpacked for a while. Instead of aiming for perfect, aim for progress.

The first priority is simply getting everything safely into your new home. The rest can follow at your own pace.

5. Take moments to enjoy it

This is a big milestone. Amid the legwork, take a minute to stand in your new home and appreciate it. Order takeaway, toast with a cup of tea, or just sit in your new space and exhale. You’ve done it.

Moving soon? Let us help you make the big day feel a lot smaller

The little things tenants love (that landlords often forget)

It’s the small details that create lasting impressions

For landlords, meeting the legal and safety standards of a rental property is essential. But if you want to turn a good rental into a great one and encourage tenants to stay long-term it’s often the little extras that make all the difference.

In a competitive market, these small touches can set your property apart and make tenants feel genuinely at home from day one. Here are a few of the things tenants appreciate most (but landlords sometimes overlook).

1. Thoughtful lighting

Good lighting transforms a space. Tenants love homes with well-placed lamps, pendant lighting, and brighter bulbs in work areas like the kitchen. Even simple upgrades like warm LED bulbs or stylish lampshades can instantly make a rental feel more inviting and cared for.

2. Practical storage solutions

No one ever complains about too much storage. Tenants appreciate homes with clever storage options, from fitted wardrobes to additional shelving and secure outdoor storage (perfect for bikes or tools). It shows forethought and consideration for everyday living.

3. Window dressings that work

Many tenants arrive with little more than suitcases. Providing clean, neutral curtains or blinds saves them hassle and expense and gives the property a polished, ready-to-move-into look. It also avoids the mismatched DIY window coverings that sometimes appear in rentals.

4. Well-maintained outdoor space

Whether it’s a private garden, a shared courtyard, or even just a balcony, outdoor areas are highly valued. Simple touches like tidy lawn edges, swept paths, or potted plants can make tenants feel welcomed and proud of their space.

5. Clear instructions and welcome touches

A small folder with appliance manuals, bin collection dates, Wi-Fi details, and local recommendations can make a huge difference for new tenants. It saves confusion and creates a sense of care and professionalism. Some landlords even go one step further with a welcome pack of tea, biscuits, or a few essentials for the first night.

6. Responsiveness and respect

It’s not an item, but it’s the one thing that matters most: tenants stay where they feel respected. Being prompt with repairs, communicating clearly, and handling issues with care and fairness will earn lasting goodwill.

Why these details matter

Tenants who feel comfortable and valued are far more likely to stay longer, look after the property, and speak positively about their experience. For landlords, this means fewer void periods, less wear and tear from constant turnover, and a smoother overall letting experience.

Want to create a rental tenants love? Let’s help you get the details that make a difference

Your summer home goals: tidy up, freshen up, move on?

Summer is the season of fresh starts

There’s something about summer that naturally inspires change. The days are longer, the light is brighter, and everything feels just that little bit more possible. Whether you own your home, rent it, or manage properties, summer is the perfect time to reassess, refresh, and reset your space or even your plans.

The beauty of summer home goals is that they can be big or small. You might be thinking of selling, preparing to let, or simply giving your home a well-deserved seasonal refresh. Whichever it is, now’s the time to start.

Tidy up: The simplest reset

Before you do anything else, consider the simplest and most satisfying task: decluttering. Clearing out unused items, tackling overstuffed cupboards, and donating or recycling what you no longer need can completely change how your home feels.

For landlords, a mid-year tidy-up (especially between tenants) can make a property instantly more appealing. For homeowners, it’s a chance to make space and appreciate the home you’ve created. Even tenants can benefit from the calm and clarity a simple clear-out can bring.

Freshen up: Small changes, big impact

You don’t need a full renovation to make a big difference. A fresh coat of paint, new cushions, some house plants, or a rearranged room layout can transform your space for the season.

Summer is also the perfect time to give outdoor spaces some attention. A mown lawn, tidy patio, or a few colourful potted plants can turn even a small outdoor area into a haven for relaxing or entertaining.

For sellers and landlords, these small touches make a big difference in viewings. A property that feels well cared for and loved will always appeal more strongly to buyers and prospective tenants.

Move on: Ready for the next chapter?

For some, summer signals more than just a refresh it’s the start of the next big step. If you’ve been thinking of moving, upsizing, downsizing, or switching properties, summer offers ideal conditions to begin. Buyers and renters are often more active, daylight hours make viewings easier, and properties look their best in natural light.

Even if you’re not quite ready yet, this season is a perfect opportunity to start exploring your options or planning your next move. Speak to a local property expert, explore areas of interest, and make a list of what you want from your next home.

Whatever your summer goal, enjoy the journey

Whether you’re staying, selling, letting, or moving on, your home should always reflect and support your lifestyle. Summer is simply the perfect time to make sure it does.

Let’s help you achieve your summer home goals, contact us today

American Four TopsSat, 19 Jul, 2025 at 07:30 pm

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