Bill Tandy's latest market update

Top 20 New-Builds For Sale

New builds, with their high energy efficiency and glossy, modern finishes are amongst the most coveted property types in the UK.

Click here to read Top 20 New-Builds For Sale.

Transform Your Bedroom on a Budget

For many of us, our bedroom is our sanctuary and the personal, designated hideaway of our home, and so it only makes sense to curate a design that elicits peace and joy.

Click here to read Transform Your Bedroom on a Budget.

Mavesyn Ridware, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 3QE

The Old Hall, Mavesyn Ridware is an exquisitely beautiful Grade II* country house set on the edge of this beautiful ...

£1,750,000

Click here to read Mavesyn Ridware, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 3QE.

Harlaston, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 9HT

Opportunity to purchase outstanding properties such as Haselour House are particularly rare, and this wonderful example of a gorgeous...

£1,700,000

Click here to read Harlaston, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 9HT .

Top tips on creating key selling points for your home

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*

Six mistakes landlords should avoid making

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.

Buyer demand remains strong this summer

Buyer demand in July was 3% higher than in 2019, but the number of available properties for sale was 12% lower than the same period in 2019.* This means that your home is in demand. While there is a healthier choice of properties than in recent years, demand still exceeds supply.

The housing crisis
There is a backlog of 4.3 million homes that are missing from the national housing market because they were never built.** With so much talk of high interest rates and the cost of living, it’s easy to forget that the housing crisis has not gone away.

Some good news about inflation
Inflation is finally falling, as it dropped to 7.9% in the year to June.*** This is the lowest level for over a year and will impact the base rate, meaning lower mortgage interest rates should follow. As this happens, the property market will revitalise, but without the sudden upsurges of the past.

First-time buyer homes
The national average asking price for these types of homes decreased by -0.4% from June to July, with an annual change of +0.3%.* The demand for first-time buyer-type properties is high, with many people still managing to get a footing on the ladder despite all the challenges. The mortgage guarantee scheme, which ends in December, has helped, as has a competitive range of mortgages from high-street lenders.

Second-steppers homes
The national average asking price for these types of homes decreased by -0.5% from June to July, with an annual change of +0.6%.* With many home movers getting a good price for their first-time buyer-type homes, they are taking advantage of good levels of equity and moving to something bigger. Whether it’s a house in the suburbs or a townhouse, the figures show that these types of houses have increased in value over the past year.

Homes at the top of the ladder
The national average asking price for these types of homes decreased by -0.1% from June to July, with an annual change of +0.8%.* Homes at this end of the market had not been quite as buoyant in terms of sales as those in the first-time buyer market. However, overall, as with all house types, the value of these types of properties looks healthy on an annual basis.

Spend some time with your agent
It’s easy to listen to the news or look at average house prices and arrive at the wrong conclusion. Agents know your local market intimately. Better still, they have the right approach when it comes to pricing your home at the correct level. Properties that need a reduction in asking price are 10% less likely to find a buyer compared to a property that was priced correctly in the first place.* Your situation will differ from that of the next person. You may have high levels of equity in your home, but even if you don't, agents today can put you in touch with mortgage providers and advisors who will create a solution that is right for you.

Get in touch today for advice on all aspects of your move

Rightmove*
centreforcities**
Office for National Statistics***

It’s not all about house prices

It’s worth talking to your agent this August as the housing market is in good shape for many reasons. So, whether you are on holiday or looking for a holiday home to buy, downsizing or moving to something better, here are a few good reasons to do so.

Every home is different
The location of your home is important, as is the property type. First-time buyer-type homes, for example, have been selling very well. But with all that said, your individual home stands for a lot too. Every home has its own personality and unique features that make it desirable to a buyer. And the chances are, if your home is in any way attractive to certain buyers, they will not be alone.

Demand for your home is strong
Buyer demand is 3% higher than it was in 2019.* It’s completely unfair to compare these figures to the unsustainable levels during the pandemic. But every cloud has a silver lining, and much of that rapidly gained equity will still be in your home. This means that if there is a crash, you are still in a good place.

Your situation is unique
The number of homeowners who own their homes outright in the UK stands at 35%, while the number of homeowners with mortgages stands at 30%.** If you are one of the majority that does not have a mortgage, you may be less apprehensive about making a move now in the face of fluctuating interest rates.

The long-term view looks good
In the long term, house prices increase, and if you are concerned about the short-term fluctuations in price, they will be absorbed by the long-term increase in the value of your home.

How much time have you invested in your property?
Many homeowners in the UK who buy a home will live in it for well over ten years. So, if you bought your home before the pandemic, you have a double layer of accumulated equity to fall back on. Many people are in this situation, and this, combined with good demand, sures up the property market.

Home movers are on holiday
With so many people enjoying their holidays at this time of year, the market may lose a bit of momentum. So often, these changes in price can come about because of seasonality. Now is a good time to get out and have a good look at the home you may want to move into. There is a lot of choice, and with the market being less frantic, you may have more flexibility when it’s time to make an offer.

Conclusion
So, what does this price change mean? Not a lot, and with years of equity, you are in a good place even if there is a sudden drop in prices. But as things stand, prices are steadily declining only slightly, which means you will not get caught out in the middle of your move. After all, you want to live in the home you want; you are not playing the stock exchange.

Rightmove*
English Housing Survey**

Abnalls Lane, Lichfield, WS13

The accommodation comprises impressive dining hall, two generous reception rooms, kitchen...

Offers Over £995,000

Click here to read Abnalls Lane, Lichfield, WS13.

Shute Hill, Chorley, WS13

Bill Tandy and Company, Burntwood, are pleased to present this outstanding individually...

OIEO £850,000

Click here to read Shute Hill, Chorley, WS13.

Haselour Lane, Harlaston, Tamworth, B79

Opportunity to purchase outstanding properties such as Haselour House are particularly rare, and this wonderful example of a gorgeous Georgian country home is a true delight.

£1,700,000

Click here to read Haselour Lane, Harlaston, Tamworth, B79.

Gaiafields Road, Lichfield, WS13

This stunning detached family home built in the circa 1930's by the renowned Lichfield builder J R Deacon stands in a most significant plot at the end of Gaiafields Road.

£950,000

Click here to read Gaiafields Road, Lichfield, WS13.

The Magic Room - Lichfield Night of Magic - March 2025

Step into The Magic Room: an evening of captivating parlour magic. Expect mystery, elegance...

Click here to read The Magic Room - Lichfield Night of Magic - March 2025.

Hanch, Lichfield, Staffordshire

This beautifully restored farm house has been thoughtfully renovated with quality and luxury in mind. From the stunning herringbone flooring...

£945,000

Click here to read Hanch, Lichfield, Staffordshire.

Hanch, Lichfield, Staffordshire

Forming part of the luxury development at Hanch, this stunning single storey barn conversion offers the best of all worlds..,

£795,000

Click here to read Hanch, Lichfield, Staffordshire.

Tips to make your offer more attractive to sellers without overpaying

In today’s competitive property market, securing the home you want requires more than just making a high offer. Sellers consider multiple factors when choosing a buyer, and a well-structured, appealing offer can give you the edge without stretching your budget too far. Here are some key strategies to make your offer stand out while ensuring you pay a fair price.

Get your finances in order

Sellers prefer buyers who can move quickly and with confidence. Having a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP) shows that you are financially prepared and serious about buying. If you are a cash buyer, making this clear in your offer strengthens your position, as sellers often favour buyers who do not rely on mortgage approval.

Be flexible with your timeline

A seller’s ideal buyer is someone who fits their moving plans. If they need a quick sale, being ready to proceed without delays can put you ahead of the competition. On the other hand, if they need extra time to find a new home, offering flexibility on move-in dates could work in your favour. Asking the seller about their preferred timeline and accommodating their needs can make your offer more appealing.

Keep your offer clean and simple

Avoid adding unnecessary conditions that could slow down the process. Sellers may be put off by offers that are dependent on selling another property or subject to extensive surveys and delays. A straightforward offer with fewer contingencies reassures the seller that the sale is less likely to fall through.

Establish a good relationship with the seller

Property transactions are not purely financial. Sometimes sellers favour buyers they feel a connection with. Expressing why you love the property and how you plan to care for it can create goodwill. This is especially effective when sellers have an emotional attachment to their home.

Work with a reliable estate agent

A well-regarded estate agent can present your offer in the best light and highlight your strengths as a buyer. If you are working with a trusted agent, they can communicate your seriousness and financial readiness to the seller’s agent, giving you a competitive edge.

Show you are ready for a smooth transaction

Being prepared with all necessary documents, such as proof of funds and solicitor details, demonstrates that you are serious and ready to move forward. Sellers and agents appreciate buyers who are organised and can proceed without unnecessary delays.

Win the offer without overpaying

Securing a property does not always mean offering the highest price. A well-prepared, flexible, and confident approach can make your offer more attractive without exceeding your budget. By presenting yourself as a strong, reliable buyer, you increase your chances of getting the home you want without paying over the odds.

Need expert advice on making a winning offer? Contact us today for guidance on navigating the buying process successfully

Deposit Protection Schemes in 2025: What’s changing and how it benefits you

For tenants, a protected deposit provides peace of mind that their money is safe and will be returned fairly at the end of their tenancy. In 2025, there are updates to deposit protection rules and processes that tenants need to be aware of. Understanding how these schemes work and what changes are being introduced can help you feel more secure in your rental agreement. Here is what is new this year and how it benefits you.

What is a deposit protection scheme

Deposit protection schemes exist to ensure that tenants’ deposits are kept safe and handled fairly throughout a tenancy. By law, landlords must place your deposit in a government-approved scheme within thirty days of receiving it. At the end of the tenancy, deductions can only be made for agreed reasons such as unpaid rent or property damage. If there is a dispute over deductions, the scheme provides a resolution service to ensure fairness for both parties.

What is changing in 2025

New measures are being introduced to improve deposit protection, increase transparency, and make it easier for tenants to track and manage their deposits. Some of the key changes include.

Digital tracking and notifications

More schemes are moving towards online systems where tenants can log in and check the status of their deposit at any time. You may now receive automated updates confirming when your deposit has been protected and details on how to retrieve it at the end of your tenancy.

Faster dispute resolution

Improvements to the resolution process mean that disputes over deposit deductions are expected to be resolved more quickly. Some schemes are introducing stricter timeframes for landlords and tenants to submit evidence, helping to prevent unnecessary delays in getting your money back.

Stronger penalties for landlords who fail to comply

If a landlord does not protect your deposit correctly, they can now face tougher financial penalties. This change is designed to encourage full compliance with the law and ensure tenants’ money is safeguarded properly.

How these changes benefit tenants

The updates to deposit protection schemes are designed to make the process fairer, clearer, and more efficient for tenants. Here is how you will benefit.

Greater transparency

With more digital tracking options, tenants will have better access to deposit information, reducing uncertainty and making it easier to check that their money is being handled correctly.

Quicker access to your deposit

Faster dispute resolution means tenants will not have to wait as long to receive their deposit back at the end of a tenancy, even if there is a disagreement over deductions.

More security for your money

Stronger penalties for landlords who fail to protect deposits properly mean fewer risks for tenants. If your landlord does not follow the correct process, you will have more legal backing to claim compensation.

How to check if your deposit is protected

If you have paid a deposit, your landlord or letting agent should provide you with details of where it has been registered. In England and Wales, deposits must be held in one of three government-approved schemes.

Tenancy Deposit Scheme TDS
Deposit Protection Service DPS
My Deposits

You can check whether your deposit is protected by visiting the website of these schemes and entering your tenancy details. If your landlord has not provided you with deposit protection information, ask them for it immediately. If they fail to protect your deposit, you may be entitled to compensation of up to three times the deposit amount.

What to do at the end of your tenancy

To ensure you get your full deposit back, follow these steps before moving out:

Check the tenancy agreement: Review the terms regarding deposit deductions to understand what could be charged at the end of the tenancy.

Document the property’s condition: Take photos and videos when moving out to provide evidence that you are leaving the property in good condition.

Request your deposit return promptly: Once you have moved out, formally request your deposit back through the protection scheme to start the process.

A fairer and more secure system for tenants

The updates to deposit protection in 2025 are designed to make renting fairer and more transparent for tenants. With better tracking, faster resolutions, and stricter enforcement for landlords, tenants can feel more secure that their deposits are being handled properly. Knowing your rights and taking simple steps to check your deposit is protected can help ensure a smooth rental experience.

How could recent price rises help to offset the stamp duty increase?

The property market has a way of taking care of itself. The recent average, price increases of 1.7%* in January, perhaps driven by demand to beat the stamp duty rush, could help to mitigate some of the costs associated with stamp duty (SDLT). However, this will also largely depend on how well you can negotiate a good selling price and have a good strategy when making an offer.

Strong values could help with stamp duty rises  

For single-owned residential properties, stamp duty has various thresholds, meaning its rise by 2% from 0% on properties is from the portion priced between £125,001 and £250,000.** The increase in value of your property could be more than this amount, which is £2500. However, you pay stamp duty after the purchase of a property, so a lot depends on the finer details of negotiating your offer. If your home’s value is more than £250,000, those thresholds remain the same for a single property.

Understand the full stamp duty rates

It’s important to note that the existing thresholds for homes worth more than £250,000 remain unchanged for single-property purchases. At 5% on the portion from £250,001 to £925,000.** Beyond this, the next £575,000 (from £925,001 to £1.5 million) is taxed at 10%, and any amount above £1.5 million is taxed at 12%.**

First-time buyers

Until 31 March 2025, first-time buyers benefit from a stamp duty (SDLT) discount, paying no SDLT on properties up to £425,000 and 5% on the portion from £425,001 to £625,000.** However, if the property price exceeds £625,000, the relief does not apply, and standard rates are used. From 1 April 2025, the discount threshold will be reduced, with no SDLT on properties up to £300,000 and 5% on the portion from £300,001 to £500,000.** If the price exceeds £500,000, buyers must follow the standard stamp duty rules applicable to those purchasing a home for the second time or beyond.**

Maximise your home’s value

With demand high and prices rising, now is a great time to assess your property’s true worth. A professional valuation could reveal a larger-than-expected increase in your home’s value, putting you in a stronger position when selling and helping to counteract stamp duty costs. Making the most of your home’s value can often be about the little things as well as staging and presenting it professionally.

Market momentum is building

As we move further into the year, market confidence continues to grow. Lower mortgage rates, high demand, and rising home values are all contributing to a buoyant property landscape. Whether you're looking to upsize, downsize, or relocate, conditions remain favourable for making your next move.

The power of good negotiation

A well-negotiated offer can make all the difference when securing your next home, and having an experienced agent by your side can help you achieve the best outcome. A good agent will understand market conditions, assess the seller’s position, and guide you on making a strong yet strategic offer. Whether it’s negotiating on price, securing favourable terms, or ensuring you stand out in a competitive market, expert advice can put you in the best position to succeed.

Contact us today for a free valuation and expert advice

Rightmove*

GOV.UK**

Five good reasons for moving in February 2025

This February signals fresh beginnings and for home movers this presents an excellent opportunity to take action. Whether you're looking to sell your current property or find your dream home, market conditions this month offer several advantages. From strong buyer activity to better mortgage deals, here’s why moving now could work in your favour.

1. Buyer demand is growing

A wave of confidence is sweeping the property market, with more buyers actively searching for homes. The number of agreed sales has risen by 11% year-on-year,* showing that people are ready to commit to purchases. If you're selling, this means a higher chance of securing a motivated buyer quickly. For those looking to buy, the market is moving, so waiting too long could mean missing out on the right property.

2. More homes are entering the market

If you've struggled to find the right home in the past, things are looking up. The number of new properties coming to market has increased by 11% compared to this time last year.* This surge in listings gives buyers a wider choice, making it easier to find a property that fits their needs. For sellers, it’s a sign of growing confidence, listing your home now means tapping into a pool of serious buyers while competition is still manageable.

3. Mortgage deals are more attractive

After a period of uncertainty, lenders are offering better mortgage rates to encourage more movement in the market. Lower borrowing costs make buying more affordable, and for those looking to remortgage, it’s an opportunity to secure a better deal. Buyers who act now can benefit from these improved rates before any potential changes later in the year.

4. Energy-efficient homes are in demand

With energy prices still a key concern, buyers are paying close attention to Energy Performance Certificates (EPC ratings) and energy-saving features. Homes with modern insulation, solar panels, or efficient heating systems are attracting more interest and could sell for a premium. Sellers making small upgrades, such as installing smart thermostats or improving insulation, could increase their property's appeal to energy-conscious buyers.

5. Moving before the spring rush has its benefits

Spring is traditionally the busiest time of year for the property market, with a surge of buyers and sellers entering at the same time. While this increased activity brings more opportunities, it also means more competition. Starting your move in February allows buyers and sellers to get ahead of the rush, securing deals with less pressure. Those who move early may also find that transactions complete faster, avoiding potential delays later in the season.

Thinking of moving? Book a free valuation today and start your journey with expert guidance

Rightmove*