James Anderson April 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.

 

 

Residential transactions 23% higher due to stamp duty and vaccine news

 

February saw a total of 147,050 residential transactions according to HMRC, which is a 23% increase from January’s total and a whopping 48.5% more than February 2020.

 

The cause of this surge seems to be as a result of the vaccine roll out, as well as the stamp duty holiday.

 

As transaction numbers increase month-on-month, we're able to see just how strong the market is, having shown tremendous resilience so far during the pandemic.

 

As buyers and sellers were previously rushing to meet the original stamp duty deadline, which should have seen savings end on March 31st, it's anticipated that even more sales will be agreed and records beaten over the next few months.

 

 

Whilst the stamp duty holiday as we know it will be in place until the end of June, offering up to £15,000 worth of savings, there will be homebuyers who benefit long after this date with a phased out easing that sees smaller savings until September. 

 

Due to Brexit and then COVID-19, there have been delays and hesitations in the sector, with a number of us wanting to see a return of 'normality' before proceeding with any plans.

 

If you’re looking to start the buying or selling process in 2021, get in touch with our team today.

 

 

Chain-free property listings boom as sellers rent ahead of their next move

 

Recent data from Rightmove suggests that there has been a sudden increase in the number of chain-free properties listed on the market, due to sellers being more willing to rent before they purchase their next home.

 

21% of available properties on Rightmove are chain-free, an increase from 15% this time last year.

 

This growing trend for chain-free property sales has been seen significantly in London, which has increased from 12% to 21%.

 

Sellers are often hesitant to come to market because they are unable to find somewhere they want to buy, but with record demand and the stamp duty holiday extension to consider, there is a greater sense of urgency across the sector.

 

Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s director of property data, said:

 

“Selling chain-free is perhaps something some owners hadn’t considered as a possibility before now, but with the competitive market and stock shortage we currently have they’re trying to put themselves in a more attractive position when their dream home comes along.”

 

In London, there has been an increase in landlords who are deciding to sell, pushing up the percentage of chain-free properties on the market.

  

Rightmove have also seen a significant increase in the number of buyers searching for ‘no-chain’ or ‘chain-free’ properties in their keyword search function, as buyers rush to make use of the stamp duty savings available until the end of June.

 

In February 2021, the property portal found that the number of buyers searching for these terms was a staggering 72% higher compared to last year.

 

Do you know your property's value? Book a valuation today to learn more. 

 

 

Home improvements to help boost your house price

 

Whatever your budget, there are plenty of ways you can add value to your property before selling this year.

 

For inspiration on where to start, have a look at these home improvement suggestions, ranging from high cost to low:

 

Conservatories or sunrooms – adding a conservatory or sunroom is one of the most cost-effective ways to add more value to your home, with an estimated 6% uplift to the value of your property.

 

Updating your kitchen or bathroom – it is often said that potential buyers will look at the kitchen and bathroom first before they pursue a property.

 

Updating your kitchen or bathroom isn’t always the cheapest home improvement option, but it is one that can certainly boost your value by a significant amount, with an average property value increase of 5.5%.

 

If this home improvement option doesn’t quite suit your budget, but you still think these rooms could do with a refresh, replacing old worktops or cabinet doors is a fail-safe way to improve the overall look.

 

Updating old boilers and central heating – a new boiler or central heating system is a key element to consider if yours hasn’t been updated recently.

 

A dated or inefficient heating system could put potential buyers off, as this will result in more hassle for them after moving in.

 

Fixing a damaged roof – improving the core foundations and features of a property is always a safe bet.

 

A new or fixed roof is essential for both insulation and structural purposes, and – again – will save buyers from having to take on the task themselves.

 

Upgrading the home to be smart and energy-efficient – energy-saving smart home improvements are not only good for the environment but are also a great addition to have to add value to your home.

 

This can be achieved by installing smart lighting, using energy-efficient LED bulbs, followed by upgrading to eco-friendly appliances, adding double glazing and upgrading insulation.

 

Creating a defined sunspot in the garden – a recent survey by Rightmove showed that properties with a south-facing garden could be worth up to £22,000 more than those without.

 

There’s not much you can do to change the orientation of your garden, but if you don’t already have a defined sun-spot, creating a zone for this will help potential buyers picture themselves living there and enjoying the weather and seasons to come.

 

Redecorating – decorating can make a world of difference to your home, whether that’s a fresh coat of paint, updating wallpaper or installing new carpet.

 

It’s also important to remember to stay neutral and avoid any loud colours that could deter potential buyers.

 

Tidying up the front garden – the front garden is the first thing that welcomes people to your home, so it's important to keep your garden up to scratch.

 

  

Before beginning any major project, it’s important to ensure that you are spending your money wisely and understand the cost versus the potential return you will gain.

 

Get in touch with us today to talk about your home improvement plans and get advice on what will make the most difference to your home's value.

 

 

 

What you need to know when investing in a buy-to-let property

 

Investing in a buy-to-let property is a dream that many of us will have at one point or another.

 

Property has always been a dependable investment option, with successful landlords able to set up their rentals to run like clockwork whilst benefitting from an additional source of income.

 

Before considering your first step, there are some key considerations to be aware of.

 

 

It won’t happen overnight

 

As much as we would like to say otherwise, having a buy-to-let property doesn’t just happen overnight.

 

Just like starting a new business venture, there are rules and regulations you need to comply with to protect yourself and your property.

 

Whilst some of these components can take time to understand and navigate, lettings agents like ourselves are fully equipped to guide you through all of the requirements.

 

 

Know the area you’re planning to invest in

 

It’s important to do your research on the area before signing on the dotted line, such as speaking to local agents about seasonal trends and rental yield opportunities.

 

Is it a hotspot for rental demand? Are there any attractive amenities, universities or transport links nearby that would appeal to tenants?

 

 

Ensure you can afford a buy-to-let deposit

 

Whilst a standard home can be secured with as little as 5% of the price of the property, a buy-to-let investment is usually much higher.

 

The average deposit is 25% for a buy-to-let mortgage.

 

It's also likely that your income will be evaluated, as you need to be earning at least £25,000 a year for most lenders.

 

 

Think about your target tenant

 

It’s important to put yourself in the shoes of a tenant and consider what they would want from a property.

 

Being a flexible landlord is key to ensure that tenants stay for longer, which is always great news for a landlord as you can minimise on void periods and secure your rental income.

 

When you have your buy-to-let property ready to market, it is a good idea to position your home based on the type of tenant you’re targeting, such as using the right communication methods to reach them.

 

 

For guidance on how to start your buy-to-let journey, get in touch with our experienced team.