James Anderson January Newsletter

10 cost-effective hacks for keeping your property warm and cosy

With much of the UK workforce now operating under lockdown again, it's estimated that we'll see a collective hike of almost £2 billion on our energy bills at home.*

 

Here are our top ten cost-effective hacks to keep you warm this winter:

Cover up bare flooring – wooden floors can be notoriously cold, but thinner carpets can also be chilly. The addition of a thick, cosy rug can really make a difference to the warmth of the room, whilst adding a stylish touch.

 

Be smart about furniture placement – similarly to adding staple pieces such as a fluffy rug to a room, other larger pieces of furniture can make a huge difference, as can their placement in your home.

 

Any furniture blocking a radiator should be rearranged to ensure that the heat can flow around the room more evenly, creating an overall warmer environment.

 

Use draft excluders – these can be particularly useful if you are renting an older property.

 

Place these in front of doors to keep the heat in. This will save you money on your energy bills as less heat will escape the property. They can also be matched to your current interior.

 

Let the sun in – on sunnier days this winter, open your curtains and let the sun warm up your home. Sunlight is not only great for naturally warming you up but also for your mental health and energy levels. 

 

Keep the heating on low – this may sound bizarre, but having your heating on a constant low level during the day can lessen your energy bills.

 

This prevents the periodical off-on that will cost you more in the long run. Similarly, this will avoid pipes bursting when the temperature drops below zero.

 

Heavy curtains – another way to keep the heat in this winter is to hang heavy curtains or blinds near your windows, as the fabric will absorb the draft that would otherwise be coming into your property.**

 

Keep doors closed – once your heating or fire is on and warming up your property, ensure you keep doors closed to keep the rooms you’re using nice and cosy, rather than letting heat escape into unused sections of the house.

 

Be selective – any rooms that aren’t used regularly, such as guest bedrooms and bathrooms could be costing you extra money on energy bills.

 

To avoid this, turn the radiators in these areas down, keeping them on low to avoid the pipes freezing.

 

Similarly, areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms won’t need to be heated as much as your living room, so remember to take this into consideration.

 

Block your chimney – if you’re lucky enough to own or rent a property with a gorgeous chimney, these can be a huge culprit for making your home chilly.

 

To avoid this, try purchasing a low-cost chimney balloon. These can be inflated inside the chimney – out of view – and will block cold air coming in, as well as preventing heat escaping.

 

Bundle up – it wouldn’t be a 'keeping warm in winter hacks' piece without mentioning layering!

 

As clichéd and predictable as it is, wearing a jumper, dressing gown or a fluffy pair of socks is a great way to stay warm on a budget. This paired with a warm drink and a bowl of soup creates the perfect cosy evening in.

 

 

For more information or support with your property, contact our team today.

 

 

*Source: The Guardian

**Notice for tenants: if any alterations to your property are needed to make this change, please ensure you have permission from your landlord prior to doing any work. 

 

From ‘generation rent’ to ‘generation buy’

In a recent conservative conference, Boris Johnson promised to create two million more homeowners by changing ‘generation rent’ into ‘generation buy’, in the hope that the UK can return to normal post-COVID.

Mr Johnson continued by suggesting that the current levels of home ownership among the under 40s was ‘disgraceful’.

 

These levels have been plummeting dramatically over recent years, which has made people “pay through the nose to rent a home which they can’t truly love or make their own”.

To do this, changes to the regulations introduced in 2008 are required.

 

Previous strict minimum capital requirements, which were imposed on UK banks, are being blamed for initially making owning a house unattainable for various individuals.

 

These individuals may have been able to afford the monthly mortgage fees associated with homeownership, but the initial upfront deposit being between 15 and 20 per cent, it’s clear to see why renting was the only option for most.

 

Due to this, private rent increased from 2.8 million in 2007 and to 4.5 million in 2017.

So, what’s the solution?

The Prime Minister’s ambitious plans to ‘fix our broken housing market’ begins by slashing the current deposit rates to only 5% for first-time buyers.

 

As a result, this will be the biggest expansion of the sales market since the 1980s.

 

This will be welcome news for potential first-time buyers nationwide, and a great boost for the property market post-lockdown.

To view our properties, visit our website today.

 

Ten tips to saving money when moving home

 

Whilst we're all aware of the costs associated with moving, not all of us will know the money saving solutions used by savvy sellers.

 

These top tips will ease the stress of moving on yourself and your wallet, leaving you with more funds for decorating your new place.

 

Pack smart

 

Keeping your possessions safe when moving is a priority for us all, but it doesn’t have to be costly.

 

Boxes aren’t the only option; washing baskets, bins and suitcases are all environmentally-friendly alternatives that you probably have lying around your home.

 

Refrain from splashing out on bubble wrap and instead save up newspaper to protect those breakable valuables.

Recruit the troops

 

Hiring removal experts is the most sensible idea when moving, however, it isn’t always the cheapest option.

 

With social distancing restrictions in place, it's also more difficult to bring in additional outside help from friends and family members.

 

Where possible, rely on people within your household and support bubble, with recommendations or online referrals to find the removal firm that's right for your needs and budget.

 

Pick your days wisely

 

Don’t get caught out by extortionate peak pricing for removal firm bookings.

 

Some companies may hike up their prices on weekends and bank holidays, so opting for a mid-week move can lower the costs significantly.

 

Prepare early

 

On your moving day, you'll already have enough stress to deal with overseeing the packing and unpacking of your property's contents, so you won't want to deal with any hidden costs that could have been avoided.

 

Before setting off for your new home, it's worth thinking about where you'll park when you get there, and if you'll need any permits to park all day fine-free.

 

Conquer the DIY fear

 

Whilst lockdown has encouraged many of us to dabble in DIY, it's not for everyone, which could mean DIY-shy movers end up paying premium prices for professional help that could have been accomplished with a quick YouTube tutorial.

From building flatpack furniture to fixing kitchen sinks, you'll be surprised at what you can do yourself, and how much that could save you.

Declutter as you go

 

Getting rid of items you no longer want or need could impact your quoted removals firm service, so bear that in mind before committing to a price, as some companies will price based on content quantity over time taken.

 

Refrain from a moving day takeaway

 

Takeaways are tempting at the best of times, so when you're unable to find your cutlery or utensils, you might find yourself reaching for the phone.

 

If you're on a budget and want to stick to it, plan ahead and prepare meals that can be eaten at the end of a long day.

 

Or if your temptations do give way, make sure you research local delivery options to avoid paying more than you anticipated.

 

Redirect your mail

 

Not changing your mailing address can become an expensive pain going back and forth fetching letters addressed to your old house.

 

For a small fee, you can get this changed for you.

 

However, if you want to save the most money, you can do this manually by contacting the companies you know send you mail regularly, for example bills and pay slips as well as any online retail shops you frequently order from. 

 

Swap to the cheapest utility providers

 

Although it's advisable to search around for the best providers all-year round, it's even more important following a move.

 

You might find that your new area gives you access to better deals and rates, or that certain broadband providers perform slower / faster compared to your previous location.

 

It will also save you the hassle of setting everything up only to decide to switch after a few weeks or months.

 

Frugal furnishings

 

The goal to a successful move is to create liveable areas in your home until you've finished making it your own with home improvements and renovations.

 

Don’t break the bank by rushing to purchase those finishing touches, as you'll find that adding to each room over time ensures each section of the house has purpose and character.

 

For a second-hand find, try websites such as Freecycle or Gumtree – just make sure you're confident in what the sellers are offering before you pay them.

 

 

Contact our expert agents to find out more about a seamless moving experience, visit our website.

 

 

UK property market set to grow 4% in 2021

As we come into the new year, the housing market is forecast to continue its positive state, according to Rightmove.

 

House prices are set to grow an average of four per cent, despite the stamp duty holiday ending soon.

The market has seen a great increase in demand since the first lockdown, with larger houses proving to be the most popular property type, which is largely attributed to a change in routine and the rapid adoption of remote working across the country.

 

In July, Chancellor Rishi Sunak introduced a stamp duty holiday allowing houses purchased for under £500,000 to benefit from a tax break.

 

Although this scheme is due to end on March 31st, many people within the sector are calling for an extension, so that buyers and investors may continue to benefit from additional support and to speed up economic recovery.

Mortgage lender Halifax recently reported that over the last five months, the house price increase has reached its highest record since 2004. 

 

Seasonal trends suggest that January is a popular time for buyers and sellers. This year, that demand is off the charts, with homeowners rushing to reach completion and see stamp duty savings.

 

Rightmove expect the market to remain resilient despite the pandemic and Brexit.

 

They claim that the uncertainties of COVID-19 and Brexit have been around for long enough to not deter Brits from buying and selling.

 

If you’re looking to buy or sell, get in touch with our local market advisors for more information on what to expect in 2021.

 

 

UK property market set to grow 4% in 2021

 

As we come into the new year, the housing market is forecast to continue its positive state, according to Rightmove.

 

House prices are set to grow an average of four per cent, despite the stamp duty holiday ending soon.

The market has seen a great increase in demand since the first lockdown, with larger houses proving to be the most popular property type, which is largely attributed to a change in routine and the rapid adoption of remote working across the country.

 

In July, Chancellor Rishi Sunak introduced a stamp duty holiday allowing houses purchased for under £500,000 to benefit from a tax break.

 

Although this scheme is due to end on March 31st, many people within the sector are calling for an extension, so that buyers and investors may continue to benefit from additional support and to speed up economic recovery.

Mortgage lender Halifax recently reported that over the last five months, the house price increase has reached its highest record since 2004. 

 

Seasonal trends suggest that January is a popular time for buyers and sellers. This year, that demand is off the charts, with homeowners rushing to reach completion and see stamp duty savings.

 

Rightmove expect the market to remain resilient despite the pandemic and Brexit.

 

They claim that the uncertainties of COVID-19 and Brexit have been around for long enough to not deter Brits from buying and selling.

 

If you’re looking to buy or sell, get in touch with our local market advisors for more information on what to expect in 2021.

 

 

 

Your guide to understanding your property's value

 

If you are planning to sell or rent your property, then it’s important to get an accurate estimate of how much the property could be worth.

To give you an agent's perspective of what that involves, we've provided some of the key take-away points below.


Market value

Firstly, knowing how much your property is worth is more commonly known as its 'market value', which relates to the price a buyer is willing to pay when considering local and national market conditions.

 

What impacts the value of your property?

The value of your house can be determined by a variety of factors, such as any recent changes to the property or your neighbourhood.

Some of these factors may also include the size, location, amenities, condition and the asking price of similar houses nearby, so it's always beneficial to talk to a local agent with familiarity selling in your area.

The difference between market value and asking price

Valuing your house accurately is one of the most important parts of the process.

 

Bringing your home onto the market with an asking price that is too low could mean you receive offers below market value.

Whereas if the asking price is too high, you may not receive any offers at all, causing time delays and market stagnation as the ideal buyers are put off a home that falls outside of their price bracket.

 

So, whilst it can be tempting to instruct an agent based on who is offering the highest value, the risk of this is that you may need to gradually reduce your price anyway to reflect the property's actual market value.

 

How much could your house really be worth?

The best way to see how much your house is worth is through a combination of tried-and-tested
methods.

 

Over lockdown, it would be advisable to begin by referring to online house price calculators and valuation tools, as these will provide a guide based on Land Registry Data. 

 

However, it's important to bear in mind that for the most accurate and up-to-date valuation, you should organise time with an agent, as an in-person appraisal will guarantee any recent developments to your home are taken into consideration.

If you’re thinking about putting your property on the market, book a valuation with our team today.

 

 

 

Top tips for first-time buyers saving for a deposit

 

Buying your first home is an extremely poignant event in anyone’s life and being able to put down a significant deposit is vital to stand you in good stead for your future repayments.

 

However, in light of the pandemic, we appreciate that it can seem more daunting than ever to imagine yourself taking that step towards homeownership.

 

As your trusted local estate agent, with lots of first-time buyer experience, we have complied these tips to support your saving goals this January.


Plan ahead

During your property purchasing journey, it is crucial to identify any additional funds that you may need along the moving process. 

Likewise, being aware of your monthly income and outgoings is extremely important in order to create a timescale for your saving journey.

 

 

Move back home

If your parents or family are not in a position to be able to support you financially with your property purchase, there are other ways they can help.

 

The vast majority of first-time buyers find it difficult to save for a deposit due to their monthly rental outgoings, so moving in with a friend or family member is a great option to reducing these costs.

 

Due to COVID, it is important that you check the most recent guidance before changing your living situation.

 

Downsize

If your current rent price per calendar month is slowing your deposit saving down, and you can’t move in with a family member or friend, then downsizing may help.

 

Looking for a property that is smaller could save you hundreds or even thousands over the span of your saving period.

 

Alternatively, moving out of a central location has the potential to save you a significant sum, and with remote working the new norm, you might find this option can be implemented without disrupting your lifestyle.


Check your direct debits

Especially at this time of year, many of us will take out various subscriptions without continuing to need them beyond the first month.

 

As such, it is important to go over your direct debits and ensure that you are still using all of the services you are paying for.

 

In 2019, Brits spent £4 billion on unused gym memberships – and with the average monthly fee being £35 per person – the cost really adds up.*

 

This also goes for streaming services and club memberships that you may no longer use.

Whether you have your deposit ready to go, or you’re looking to downsize to save some extra money, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

 

*Daily Mail
 

The updated 'how to rent' guide for tenants and landlords

 

As a landlord, there are a number of legal requirements to be complied with prior to letting out a property.

One of these is to provide a copy of the Government issued 'How to Rent' checklist to all tenants when entering into and renewing an assured shorthold tenancy, which is the most common type of contractual letting agreement.

The Government has recently released an updated How to Rent guide, which can be found at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/

attachment_data/file/942503/6.6642_MHCLG_How_to_Rent_v5.pdf

The guide is designed to help tenants understand their rights and responsibilities under an assured shorthold tenancy both before the tenancy starts and during the term of the agreement.


What additions or changes have the government made to the guide?

There are some noticeable differences with the latest version, which now provides answers to tenants' frequently asked questions, including the level of deposit and its protection, necessary documentation and length of term.

Another important addition is the reference to a landlord's obligations regarding mandatory electrical testing, and a review of the permitted fees under the Tenant Fees Act, which was introduced in 2019.

The Government's latest guide also sets out the information that must be provided by a landlord to tenants, as well as a summary of what each party must and should do during the tenancy.

Importantly, it gives advice to tenants on what to do if things go wrong, whilst clearly setting out what should happen at the end of the tenancy.


Why is it so important landlords provide this guide to their tenants?

Landlords need to bear in mind that giving tenants the How to Rent guide is a legal requirement.

Without doing this, it hinders your ability to later serve a valid Section 21 notice and regain possession of your property, if required to do so.

This is due to the fact that the How to Rent guide is one of the statutory pre-conditions for serving a Section 21 notice.

We will always ensure on behalf of our landlord clients that their tenants are provided with a copy of this guide and that all other landlord requirements on the grant of an assured shorthold tenancy are complied with.

If you want any further information about the How to Rent guide or landlord and tenant requirements on the grant of an assured shorthold tenancy, please call our lettings team who will be happy to help.