This year is proof that life as a landlord is not as simple as it used to be. Reforms for tenants along with new laws and legislation will make it a bit more complex. That said the great news is that demand for rented properties is still extremely strong. There is a chance you could pick up a bargain as property prices slow. These changes help protect landlords and tenants so it should be another good year where standards across the industry rise.

 

Better protection for tenants

The renter's reform bill could become legislation this year if the government have their way. Giving more rights to tenants will also force unscrupulous landlords to up their game and stop cutting corners. This will raise standards and rights for renters and stop your properties to let potentially suffering from bad landlords undercutting you.

 

Higher capital gains tax

The tax-free allowance for landlords selling a property will be reduced significantly from April. This means you could pay more capital gains tax, so if you want to avoid it, and you are thinking of selling, better to sell sooner rather than later. There will be further cuts in 2024, meaning your tax relief when you decide to sell will be halved.

 

Buy-to-let mortgage rates

Mortgage rates while higher than they used to be, are now much more stable than last year. This means you can plan for the future once again and calculate costs more accurately.

 

Higher demand

In 2022 demand for rented accommodation was huge. This year demand is still very strong.  Fewer people can afford to buy due to the cost-of-living crises and the hike in interest rates. It’s expected that landlords will increase rents in order to cover costs but also to reflect the huge demand and get a better rental yield.

 

Add to your portfolio

With house prices levelling out and falling now is the time to add to your portfolio. Rental yields are good, and demand is very high. Some landlords will choose to sell, while savvy investors will seek new properties to develop as buy-to-let businesses. Asking prices are much more open to lower offers than last year so you might just acquire something that before was not as good as an investment.

 

Financial help for energy efficiency upgrades

Landlords who meet certain criteria might be eligible for government assistance with £1bn to help homeowners to insulate their properties. The aim is to improve energy efficiency which will help landlords with providing energy-efficient, appealing homes.

 

Outlook

There is a lot going on in 2023, and if you are a landlord you are most likely to incur more costs. With rental demand growing now is the time to invest while providing great places to live for tenants. As the industry becomes more regulated, standards rise in so many ways, elevating the industry and creating a more stable investment prospect.

 

Tennant demand has never been better. Browse our properties.

 

Your home’s location
Location is a key factor in determining the value of your home. So make the most of it. Whether it’s proximity to local transport links, schools, or beautiful countryside.

Kerb appeal
From flowers to fences or widows to door frames. Anything you can add to make your home look attractive at first sight will always help.

Smart technology
There is very little you can’t use smart technology for, whether it’s for entertainment, heating, or security. Make the most of it for a comfortable and modern way of living that will help you relax.

Energy-efficiency
Buyers like cost-saving and environmentally friendly features. Highlight any energy-efficient features, such as energy-rated appliances, LED lighting, smart thermostats, triple-glazed windows, or insulation upgrades.

Build a garden office
The proportion of property listings that now mention a garden office is now 11 times higher.* With so many of us working from home today, this is now high on the list of desirable features for many people.

Add bi-fold doors
By creating space while adding lots of light, you can really alter your indoor and outdoor living spaces as they seamlessly blend, allowing you to add real desirability to your home.

Open-plan living
Open-plan layouts have been on trend for the past few years. By increasing the size of your rooms by physically removing walls, your kitchen and dining area will seem so much bigger, with more light and a better feeling of space.

The kitchen
A new kitchen fitted with energy-efficient appliances is the central hub of any home. Doing this could add up to 15% to the value of your home.*

Create off-street parking
Off-street parking can add up to £50,000 to the value of your home.* So if you can create it where it did not exist before, many more home buyers will want to buy your home.

Does your home have any special features?
Whether we are talking about traditional architectural features such as an original fireplace, staircase, or stone walls, celebrate them. But do so in a respectful, neutral way that does not alienate potential buyers.

Outdoor living space
From great decking to the perfect patio, add lights, candles, an outdoor dining area, and a fire pit. Outdoor spaces, big or small, add to the value of your home and to the quality of your life.

Garden
Making the most of your garden is just as important as making the most of any room in the house. And this can not only add value to your home but also greatly increase its attractiveness to buyers.

Sell your property’s potential
Whether you have planning permission to build an extension or loft conversion, this is always worth mentioning to your agent as it could attract buyers.

Get in touch today to discuss moving to the place you really want to be

 

Zoopla*

 

The rental market is highly lucrative and full of opportunity, with soaring demand and lists of people looking to rent. As a landlord, you are set to gain a good return on investment; it’s just a bit more complex than it used to be.

Not conducting tenant screening
It’s vital to carry out the right background checks. The last thing you need is to place a tenant who is problematic when it comes to damage to your property or paying rent. Credit checks and references are good ways to ensure you are letting your property to the right tenants.

Not keeping on top of maintenance
It’s imperative to keep on top of your property. Small issues can very quickly become expensive problems if not dealt with quickly. If tenants live happily in a well-maintained property, then this reduces the risk of accidents, claims, or losses in revenue if your tenant decides to leave.

Not conducting inspections
A great way to prevent expensive repairs is to conduct regular inspections of the property. This will help you identify any potential problems before they become repairs. It's vital that you give your tenants at least 24 hours' notice before conducting viewings. It’s less about checking up on tenants and more about keeping your property in good condition.

Neglecting legal obligations
From the right safety checks to the correct level of insurance, there is a lot to remember. Having the right tenancy agreement is also vital, and you don’t want to skim over the details of this. It’s important to define the cost of rent and what it covers to notice periods. It’s also important to maintain records of rent payments, and while some things may not be a legal requirement, they can help your case if legal disputes arise.

Incorrect pricing
When deciding how much rent to charge, it’s important to strike the right balance. You don’t want to charge too much, which could lead to your property being vacant. On the other hand, you must factor in your maintenance costs and the area where your property is located.

Not using a letting agent
A letting agent can take care of as much or as little of all these processes for you, which helps protect your investment and ensures your rights as a landlord are protected. Managing your own buy-to-let property is a time-consuming business. But more than that, you don't want to get caught out or increase your costs due to poor management.

Contact us today to find your buy-to-let property

 

Being a landlord today is a business and for any business to succeed, it takes investment and time, but it will need to make a profit in the short or long term. There are many ways to thrive as a landlord, from investing in the right location to adding value to your property. But like any business, reducing your costs will help you make more profit.

A good chat with your accountant
A great place to start if you do not already have one is to talk to your accountant. They will be able to outline the most tax-efficient ways to manage your portfolio, whether it consists of one property or a vastly increasing number of properties. They will be versed in the latest legislative changes that may affect your business.

Form a limited company
Your accountant may advise you to form a limited company. It's not a difficult or timely process, but if you do choose this route, you will need a good accountant. When purchasing your property, you will be able to do so through the company, and as a shareholder or director of the company, you have capped liability for debts, losses, or legal claims.

Claim your expenses
Reducing your tax bill as a landlord is made easier by setting up a limited company, which will allow you to offset costs against profits. The best way to record these is to keep a log of all your expenses and always keep receipts and invoices. Your accountant will be able to advise you on what expenses you can claim.

Letting agent fees are tax-deductible
Keeping track of the small costs is also important, as all these things can add up over the year. Expenses such as phone calls can sometimes get overlooked. It’s also worth noting that if you choose to manage your portfolio through a letting agent, you can deduct their fees from your taxable profit.

Tax bands
Making full use of various tax bands is also a good way to reduce your tax bill. For example, certain tax bands may help reduce Capital Gains Tax. If you sell your properties regularly and they do not gain in value, you will not pay Capital Gains Tax.

Tax relief rules
While landlords can no longer deduct mortgage expenses from their rental income, relief is paid as a tax credit as a percentage of mortgage interest payments. While this is not as generous as the pre-existing system, it is still a good way to reduce your tax bill.

Green home grants
While this is not tax relief, it’s another way to reduce your costs. This can provide funding for landlords who make their properties more energy efficient. So, if you are a landlord and are thinking about improving your property’s insulation or double glazing, you may be eligible for a grant.

Contact us to find your perfect property investment today

 

Being a tenant has a lot of advantages. In the UK, 36% of households rent, 35% of households own their house outright, and 30% of households are mortgage holders.* This technically means that the UK is now a nation of renters. It’s a good time to look at some of the great reasons to rent in the UK.

It’s easier to move
Once you find your perfect place, it’s relatively easy to make your move. With no selling or buying involved, you have a lot more flexibility to find something bigger or somewhere in a different location with speed and convenience, and your agent will take care of everything for you.

Fewer financial commitments
With an initial deposit for a rented property being a fraction of the amount needed for a deposit for a mortgage, you are already saving before you move in. Then, if there are any maintenance issues, you are not liable for the costs. You may find that bills are included in your rent, and this allows you to budget for the more fun things in life.

Less responsibility
With less responsibility for repairs, all you will most likely need to do if something needs fixing is call your agent, who will have a dedicated maintenance team. This, combined with a lower financial commitment and the legal responsibilities of home ownership, means you are not tied down.

You don’t have to worry about rising interest rates
Many homeowners are currently worried about increasing interest rates and paying their mortgages in the current cost-of-living crisis. When you rent, you don’t have to think about this, nor will you need to borrow or become tied down with a mortgage.

Social opportunities
Whether you are renting in the suburbs or a city apartment, because of the ease of moving, you can find a place near the social scene or amenities that most interest you. Whether you are addicted to travelling and want proximity to the airport, or you simply want to be near a decent gym, living close to good restaurants and bars will save you time and add to the quality of your life.

You can focus on other investments and goals
With fewer financial commitments, you could choose to invest in the stock exchange or perhaps properties in locations that are more affordable. You may have a retirement plan, a hobby, or a business you would rather develop. Perhaps you have other passions you want to pursue.

Greater freedom to explore
If you are developing your career and, as a result, may move abroad or change your job roles regularly and don't want the financial commitment of a mortgage, then renting can be the perfect solution. Renting also allows you to explore different living arrangements, from sharing to city life and then, in no time at all, country living.

Try out different properties
There are so many different property types you can enjoy renting. From a flat in the city to luxury homes, humble terraced homes to rural retreats. Whatever you are looking for, from a quaint village to a place in the leafy suburbs, it’s always worth talking to a good agent to help you in your search.

Contact us today to discuss your rental requirements

 

English Housing Survey*

 

Open-plan living is not for everyone, but with a touch of creativity, you can transform your living spaces into something truly amazing, making your home a delightful place to live. So, if you are unsure which to choose in your property search, here are some ideas that may open your mind.

What is open-plan living?
Open-plan living adds lots of light to your living space and creates a seamless flow between different areas of the house, such as the living room, dining area, and kitchen. This layout creates a sense of spaciousness, makes it easier to interact with others, and can be ideal for families with young children, allowing parents to keep an eye on them while cooking or working.

What is broken-plan living?
Broken-plan living aims to retain openness while also creating a level of definition and division between your living spaces. This is achieved in many ways, from partial walls to furniture arrangements. It provides a balance between open-plan and traditional separate rooms, offering both a sense of connectivity and some degree of privacy.

Do you really have to choose?
It’s all about subtly; there are so many things you can do to take advantage of open-plan living while still creating defined areas that are cosy, private, and full of differing atmospheres as you move to each area of your home.

Add a window
Retain light and create a space within your floor space by adding an internal window. You could do this for the purposes of any function you like, from a play area to a reading space near a fire. This will allow you to have privacy while still being connected to the rest of your living areas.

Create a study
Adding some steps to an elevated study so you can take in the rest of the house while working, reading, or enjoying a hobby is another way to define this space. Use glass, metal, wood, bricks, or plants to create your perfect workspace.

Half-walls
Breakfast bars are nothing unusual, and adding half walls is a blast from the past but still works. Using very small, right-angled half walls made from any material you desire and decorated in interesting colours can have a big impact. Or if you prefer curves or flowing lines, then create those to help divide the areas you feel work. It could be perfect for the kitchen or a great place to watch a movie.

Add a chimney breast
This is a clever way to create cosiness and a classical sitting-by-the-fire feeling while creating privacy. Tall, small, walk-around, or floating fires are brilliant for creating the perfect place to relax while satisfying your desire for more space.

Be creative and be yourself
There is so much you can do to make your broken-plan living space your own. Furniture, whether modern or antique, to trees, sculpture, or a walled wine rack if that’s your thing. Make it your own and experiment. Find inspiration everywhere and own it.

Do you feel inspired? Contact us today to find an amazing home

 

With 36% of all households in the UK renting*, the rental market is a vital part of the economy and vital for the population to thrive. When landlords provide great properties for tenants to live in, it creates a mutually beneficial and stable landlord-tenant relationship, but that is not all.

A happy tenant
Good landlords who maintain their property to the highest standards, whether with the help of a letting agent or not, are much more likely to have satisfied tenants. This means tenants will renew their tenancy agreements and feel secure in their homes. The landlord has an uninterrupted source of income.

Building a good reputation
A good landlord will gain a good reputation, and this means the potential to make more profit as tenants will be more attracted to your property portfolio.

Higher property value
Well-looked-after properties hold and gain value more rapidly than properties of a lower standard, which leads to greater opportunities to expand your portfolio as a landlord.

Lower vacancy rates
There's a significant demand for rental properties, and the demand for high-quality rental homes is even greater

Good properties always find good tenants; this means that, as a landlord, your property will not sit unoccupied.

Lower maintenance costs
Properties that are well cared for will cost less to maintain because any issues will most likely be prevented. A fully managed letting service can take care of your property, so whether you are a tenant or a landlord, you don’t have to worry.

Greater compliance
From gas safety certificates to tenancy agreements, a well-maintained property let through a good letting agent will take care of all of this for you. And with the Renters Reform Bill on its way, landlords and tenants need to be compliant to make the most of their rights.

More financial options
Great properties lead to great returns on investment, which means banks will back you when it's time to expand your property portfolio. Stability is the key to securing your investment.

A positive effect on the market and wider community
Good properties that are maintained well and have good tenants placed within them are good for the local community and the wider economy.

A fully managed letting service
This is one of the best ways to make sure your property is up to scratch in every possible aspect. From tenancy agreements to property maintenance, a fully managed letting service will give you more time for your life.

It can be time-consuming, from finding tenants to seeking references to sorting a blocked drain. But if you do enjoy being hands-on, you can choose the level of managed service you want. And if you are a tenant and you rent through a letting agent, then you know the entire process will be easier. If you have any maintenance issues, help is just a phone call away.

Contact us today for all your property needs, whether you are a tenant or a landlord

 

English Housing Survey*

 

Improving your buying power has never been more important. With the increase in the cost-of-living, fluctuating interest rates, and high inflation, you need to pay attention to the details that can counteract these current challenges. A new home could be more affordable than you realise. With that in mind, here are a few things you can do that may put you in a much better position to buy the home you desire.

Pay your bills on time
Reduce any debts, from credit cards to monthly insurance payments to car loans, if you can. Late payments can reduce your credit score, so ensure you don’t miss any payments.

Build up your credit

 It’s important to use your credit card or have some borrowing history because this shows your potential mortgage provider that you have the ability to pay back debts.

Access your credit report

Keep an eye on your report, checking details such as your address history, payment history, settled accounts, and whether you are on the electoral register. Any errors should be corrected immediately, as they could affect your ability to borrow.

Reduce your debt-to-income ratio
Lenders closely examine your monthly outgoings in comparison to your earnings. So, if possible, pay off any existing debts and do not take out any more new loans. It’s equally important to be disciplined and monitor your spending.

Get in touch with a good mortgage advisor
Good estate agents will put you in touch with a good mortgage advisor. There are many options when it comes to mortgages today that help counteract the effects of high interest rates.

Porting your mortgage

This means if you are an existing homeowner, you could move home without needing a new mortgage. If you are currently paying a more favourable interest rate, then this could save you significantly in costs.

Longer mortgage terms

Lenders are now offering much longer-term mortgages, which means you will pay more interest overall, and also it will reduce your monthly payments.

Interest only

Instead of paying a capital and interest mortgage, you could opt to buy the home you want with an interest-only mortgage, which costs far less per month. Then, in a few years, if you decide to remortgage, you could change your mortgage product.

Increase the size of your deposit
It’s a bit cheeky, but there is always the bank of mum and dad to help increase the size of your deposit. This reduces the amount you need to borrow, but it’s also often one of the biggest hurdles to getting your first or even second home. Create a savings plan and stick to it. You can save money by being savvy with food shopping and socialising at home.

Earn more money
It may be worth considering taking on a second job or negotiating a pay raise. The more you earn, the better. It’s important to be realistic; don’t overdo it. Your earnings have to be sustainable, and your well-being comes first.

Be resilient and resourceful
Don’t give up. Keep searching for the home you want. There is plenty of room for negotiation right now. Sometimes you have to be patient. Your agent will have a deep understanding of your local property market and can put you in touch with a good mortgage advisor.. Sometimes they will be aware of properties about to arrive on the market before they are advertised.

Talk to your agent
Your agent will have a deep understanding of your local property market, be able to put you in touch with a good mortgage advisor, give you the right valuation for your home, and help you find the home of your dreams in the right location by making good use of the equity in your property.

Contact us today for all your home moving needs.

 

 

The days are getting shorter and darker, and as autumn leaves begin to fall and the temperature starts to drop, it's time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. You want to be snug and cosy without worrying about the costs of energy bills before the cold of winter bites. Then you can relax and enjoy your home in the colder seasons of the year.

Book a checkup for your boiler
Before the cold weather sets in, it’s always wise to book a boiler checkup. A certified technician can ensure that your heating system is in good working condition, identify any potential issues, and perform necessary maintenance. This not only helps your system run efficiently but also extends its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.

A change is as good as a rest!
It's important not to block radiators where possible, so consider rearranging your furniture as the cold seasons begin. And your new arrangement might leave more space for seasonal decorations or a stash of logs! If you have a radiator heating system, it's essential to bleed them regularly. Trapped air can prevent them from working efficiently, leading to uneven heating. Bleeding your radiators will ensure they operate at their best.

Get a smart thermostat
Instead of heating your home too early or too late, flick the heat on as you leave for home. So, you don’t have to waste energy setting your thermostat to come on at the same time each day. All that waste can be costly. It’s a game-changer when it comes to heating your home efficiently. This is because it allows you to control your heating remotely. Many smart thermostats also learn your preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, optimising energy usage.

Only heat the rooms you need
There's no point in heating a room you don’t use! Perhaps turn off the radiator in the kitchen if you are cooking; the heat from your oven will warm it sufficiently to dry your tea towels! Heating specific areas of your home instead of the whole house is an energy-efficient way to keep warm. You could also use portable heaters or adjustable radiator valves, so you can focus warmth where you need it most, such as the living room or bedroom, while keeping other areas cooler.

Insulate your home
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature while reducing heating costs. Check for gaps and drafts around windows and doors, and seal them using weatherstripping or caulk. You may also consider adding extra insulation to your attic and walls for better heat retention.

Dress your windows
Maybe it’s time to buy some new curtains; they may freshen up your rooms. If the answer is no to this suggestion, keep them closed during the evenings and at night to reduce heat loss. During sunny days, open them to let natural sunlight warm your rooms, saving energy.

Solar panels that pay for themselves!
Solar panels are becoming more affordable and are available on finance from big energy suppliers. You may have the option to sell your electricity back to your local supplier which means your solar panels could pay for themselves. Consider a heat pump. Both of these technologies harness natural resources to provide heating and can be both cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long term. They will also add value to your home and make your home more desirable.

Are you interested in buying a more energy-efficient home?

 

 

Now that the entire family has settled back into work or school, many people are getting on the move again. Even if you do not have a young family, it can be a bit frantic during the summer as you prepare for your holidays. If you start now, you could be in for Christmas, or in time to start the New Year in a new home. It may be getting colder outside, but there's plenty of reason for the property market to start warming again.

Larger homes are looking like a good option
The first-time buyer market is doing well, and many young buyers are saving their deposits while with parents, skipping renting, and choosing to buy. And their parents are selling their larger homes! If you are outgrowing your home and are already wondering where everyone is going to sit this Christmas, now is a good time to consider buying bigger.

Property is pride
Your property is possibly your most important possession. Why would you not want to enjoy a better home? Home is a feeling that never abandons you, which becomes enhanced when you find the right property. A home should be exciting, rewarding, comforting, and give a feeling of safety. With so many amazing homes to choose from, whether it be a rural retreat, a suburban new-build, or an apartment with a stunning view of the city skyscape. Maybe you would prefer a large Victorian townhouse with a study and a gym, or a beautifully presented and characterful village terrace—they are all beautiful and have the power to enchant you.

Home movers are becoming acclimatised
The UK property market has been fascinating these past few years, and as we enter a stage of calm, new doors of opportunity open. Cash is king, and the UK property market has many faucets. Generally, home movers and homeowners are adjusting to the higher cost of mortgages and costs of living. There are, of course, some who will find it difficult. Nowadays, there are initiatives such as cost of living support to help those struggling. However, for the most part, affordability levels are still strong, with many home movers in a good position in terms of equity. This will encourage them to make their move, and this in turn will make the market resilient. The property market is also underpinned by a shortage in supply and a large proportion of buyers who are mortgage-free.

Life is too short to wait
Life is for living, and many people are now fed up with waiting to see what happens. In the long run, it can cost you more money as values increase. Modern estate agents can tailor pricing strategies and connect you with the homes and the means of purchasing a home you want, due to their understanding of the market. There is always a way to get the keys to the home you want. It may take a little searching or a relocation to another region. But you will get there if you want to. This attitude is prevailing in the property market, and as such, more people are on the move again and eagerly looking forward to a great new year. This in turn means there are buyers on the databases of agents looking for a home like yours.

Thinking of moving? Book a valuation today

 

 

The best time to move is not always down to the seasons or market conditions, it’s down to you. The truth is, there are good reasons to move at any time of the year. Autumn brings about that lovely feeling of vibrancy and freshness with a multitude of colours, which can make you crave the change a new home brings. Winter is also on the horizon, and let's be honest, the countdown to Christmas has started. As the days grow shorter and darker, festivities like Bonfire Night, and Christmas focus our thoughts on cosy nights by the fire. But your moving story is as much about you as it is about your home.

Your home’s story is intrinsic to you
You may have improved your home over the years. Perhaps you have concentrated on making it more energy efficient. Have you developed a really good outdoor space or bought in an up-and-coming area? Even if you have purchased a modest property in the past five years, it will have increased in value considerably. Maybe you have outgrown your home or found that it’s too big for what you need today.

Invest in time
Today, many people are obsessed with the value of their homes, however time is also important. When you buy, you will no doubt keep your home for many years, and if you have owned your current home for a while, then you potentially have good equity. This may decrease in the short term but will increase in the long term. Using the services of a skilled agent who can judge the market will ensure you pay the right price for your property.

Delaying your purchase could cost you
It’s tempting to put off the decision to buy if you are concerned about property prices, but the reality is that rising mortgage costs could cancel out your savings while waiting for property prices to fall. Add to this, the long-term increase in the value of your new home as property prices begin to increase again, and you end up costing yourself even more money.

The property market
The UK property market is very resilient. Prices and interest rates change, but the long-term outlook is still one that spells out housing shortages which helps keep the market stabilised. Your home is in demand because of this shortage. However, there is still a varied and ever-fascinating selection of properties on the market. From grand ecological, energy-efficient designs, to humble terraced properties.

The right home
The perfect location, the sunrise in the morning, the fire at Christmas, the blooming garden in the spring or perhaps a house with greater energy efficiency. Whatever the reasons are for falling for a property, there are so many advantages to living in the right home. From finding more space to work from home, to simply reaping the rewards of a better sense of well-being; the right home can be financially advantageous.

 

Book a valuation to explore your property options