The latest news from Bill Tandy

The latest news from Bill Tandy


The new year is now a part of the past and spring is just around the corner. As you begin the search for a home in time for summer, you may be thinking about purchasing a period property. Bill Tandy have an exclusive article in this month's newsletter to help guide you through the things to look out for in older properties.

As new-build homes are appearing around us, it's interesting to see the steps being taken to 'future-proof' these homes. You can find out more about this in our article below!
 
Property prices accelerated to 12.6% in the year to February and one in five could be looking to buy their next home this year!
 
We hope you enjoy this month's edition of our newsletter.


Eco Friendly Homes Playing an Important Role

 
Climate change has received immense attention recently with urgent calls to reduce the contributing factors to carbon emissions, rising sea levels, and rising temperatures. The UK has committed to reduce its CO2 emissions to net zero by 2050; and this commitment cascades to all markets, including property. This commitment is a great achievement for the UK, with it being the first first-world country to pass law to such a commitment. 

Sadly, the amount of greenhouse gasses produced from heating properties has increased since 2014. Heating our homes accounts to a staggering one seventh of overall UK emissions. Our increased use of fuel can be resultant from heat escaping from properties through walls, windows and ceilings during winter. Luckily, the Government have called an end to the rise in fuel consumption and are devising a plan to battle the emissions producing more energy efficient homes. They are behind an initiative called Future Homes Standard, which is planned to be in full operation by 2025. 

Having more energy efficient homes is a great ambition for all. It will lead to lower carbon emissions, reduced energy bills, and upgraded housing. In 2025, all new build homes will have to abide by the initiative to have clean technology to heat homes instead of the current fossil fuel burned for gas boilers. The construction sector and developers are at the heart of this revolution with their designs crucial to meeting this goal. 
 
The Housing Minister, Esther McVey, said that “industry has told us some homes built using modern methods can have 80% fewer defects and heating bills up to 70% lower. Homes built using modern methods can be of higher quality, greener and built to last. I want to see a housing green revolution.” 2020 is set for an environmental transformation, with the property market a strong contributor to this.



Easter Eggstaraganza 

Saturday 4th April 
 
Follow the Woodland Trail to find the Easter Bunny who's giving everyone free chocolate.

Click here to read Easter Eggstaraganza .



 



Things to consider before putting your home on the market

 
Deciding to sell your most valuable asset – your home – is an exciting moment. It can also feel a little daunting. However, you can prepare your property for success, even before launching to the market. Have you ticked any of these steps off your list yet? 

1. Declutter 

The chances are you have collected plenty of unwanted items over the years – from clothes and shoes to defunct mobile phones and old paperwork. By decluttering now, you’ll not only save on moving boxes, but also make your home more appealing to viewers. 

 2. Spring clean 

Once floors, shelves, surfaces, and wardrobes are clear, pull out your furniture to dust and vacuum, hire a carpet cleaner, and make those bathrooms gleam. If you have pets, remove any tell-tale odours or hair from the carpets and sofas. 

3. Refresh your décor  

Neutral colours may seem boring, but they give viewers a blank canvas to adjust to their taste. As well as this, your home will also appear brighter and bigger. Pops of colour or designer wallpaper on a feature wall can add interest, but less is more. If your design scheme is already on point, just make sure you touch up any tired paintwork.  

4. Tackle the to-do list 

Leaky taps, cracked walls, chipped tiles, and loose fittings can give your home a neglected appearance. This could leave viewers wondering what other issues they may encounter once they move in. If necessary, hire a professional to complete any lingering projects.  

5. Assess the lighting 

Poor lighting can make the most charming room appear dark and uninviting. A few well-placed lamps can help – just remember to stock up on lightbulbs too. 

6. Prepare for viewings  

Help potential buyers imagine themselves in your home by paring back on personal items such as family photos, magazines, and toys. Get ready to stage your home too – think crisp prop towels for the bathroom, new linen and cushions for the bedrooms, and fresh flowers or houseplants. 

7. Boost kerb appeal 

We all know that first impressions count. If you have a front garden or drive, make sure it’s clear of debris and freshly weeded or mowed. Attend to any broken or missing roof tiles and damaged guttering, and think about cleaning windows and repainting the exterior. 

8. Consider storage options 

If you have a lot of furniture or treasured belongings, why not put some into storage? This will help you clear the decks and get your home ready for staging and viewings. It could also come in handy when you move. 

9. Research potential estate agents 

Now that you have given your home some TLC, it’s time to shortlist a few local estate agents. Pay attention to the marketing the agent provides for their current listings and follow your gut. While the big names may tempt you, don’t rule out smaller independents who may offer a more personal service. 

10. Get your home valued 

Before you make your final decision, it’s a good idea to invite a handful of agents to value your home in person. This is your chance to find an achievable price point for your property and get a feel for the people who will be representing it.  

Our team are always here for a no-obligation chat. Contact us today. 



EXCLUSIVE STORY: Six things to look for when buying an old property

When it comes to buying residential property, homebuyers divide into two camps: those who prefer the modern comforts of a new-build home and those who adore old houses.

Click here to read EXCLUSIVE STORY: Six things to look for when buying an old property.



One in five could be looking to buy this year

 
If you’re thinking of selling your home, you’ll be pleased to know that home buyer demand was reportedly up 35% at the end of January, compared to the same time last year. *
 
According to figures published on the Property Reporter website, in February, an independent survey of over 2,000 adults in the UK found that 18% intend to purchase a new home this year, increasing to 34% when looking specifically at respondents aged 18-34. *
 
The pandemic has influenced the features people look for when home hunting. The move to remote working means 43% of those who said in the survey that they were planning to buy a property this year, will be looking to buy in a different area to where they currently live, and the ongoing ‘race for space’ means competition remains high for homes with gardens and home offices. *
 
If you’re thinking of listing your home for sale while demand is high, get in touch today for a free, no-obligation valuation.
 
*Property Reporter
 



Annual property price growth accelerates to 12.6%

 
Recent statistics show that annual house prices are continuing to grow at outstanding rates.

 

Average annual property prices rose from 11.2% in January to 12.6% in February, the strongest pace of growth since June 2021. After seven consecutive months of climbing prices, we saw a month-on-month increase of 1.7% in February, showing that the market is still very much in favour of sellers. *

 

Since the start of Nationwide’s monthly index in 1991, there has never been as big of an annual growth in prices, as there was in the year leading up to February 2022. The price of a typical home now averages above £260,000, demonstrating an increase of over £29,000 in just twelve months.

 

In comparison to February 2020, UK property prices are now 20% higher – meaning sellers can now achieve up to £44,138 more for their property than they could before the pandemic. *

 

With market activity remaining robust, demand for properties still high, and mortgage approvals running above pre-pandemic levels, it is safe to say this combination is creating a great market for sellers.

 

Have you been thinking of selling this spring? Book your valuation with us today.

 

*Property Reporter



EXCLUSIVE STORY: Why new homes are being future-proofed

As the UK is committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, the Government is looking to property developers and new homeowners to take responsibility for the planet in small, but significant ways.

Click here to read EXCLUSIVE STORY: Why new homes are being future-proofed.



Mother's Day Sunday Lunch

Join us on 27th March for a 3 course lunch served in the beautiful Edwardian Ballroom. All the family are welcome - children, dogs and well behaved parents alike! Live music will fill the background, from the fabulous pianist Christopher Langsdown.
 
When? Sun 27th March 12-2:30pm
Where? Swinfen Hall Hotel, WS14 9RE

Click here to read Mother's Day Sunday Lunch.



Easter Eggstravaganza

Easter fun on the Farm! Take the Easter Eggspress Tractor ride to Bunny Woods and follow the path to find the Easter Bunny who is giving out chocolate to every child! Meet some of the Easter Bunny’s entertaining animal friends along the way.
 
When? Sat 9th April - Sun 24th April
Where? National Forest Adventure Farm

Click here to read Easter Eggstravaganza.



Mad Hatter's Tea

Thursday 9th April 
 
Enjoy an afternoon tea in the school holiday's with fun, craziness, singing and dancing.

Click here to read Mad Hatter's Tea.



Wedding Open Day

Sunday 19th April 
 
If you are planning a wedding for 2020 or 2021 this wedding day is a perfect chance to see dressed rooms.

Click here to read Wedding Open Day.