The Best Thing Landlords Can Do

The rising cost of living is squeezing everyone’s budgets, which means it is more important than ever for landlords to do everything they can to try to ensure that they help their tenants manage their energy use and reduce their bills. Doing so will not only benefit their tenants but may also help them avoid rental voids, as their tenants will be less likely to be left unable to pay the rent.

Landlords of privately rented properties will also be required to make sure their rental properties have an EPC rating of at least C in order to continue taking on new tenants under the regulations, which are expected to become law in England and Wales in 2025.

How can landlords both help their tenants to reduce their bills and improve the EPC ratings of their properties?

Smart meters

These allow tenants to have visibility of their energy usage in real time so that they know exactly how much they are spending each day.

Smart thermostats

These allow tenants to have more control over how they use their heating every day. Some smart thermostats will even turn the heating off when they identify that a property is empty and then turn it back on when the tenants return, thus saving tenants from paying to heat an empty home. Research has indicated they can help reduce heating bills by between 12 and 23%.

Eco features

Many boilers have an ‘eco mode’ which stops water from being preheated. This means that it takes a little longer for hot water to come out of the tap, but it does save money.

LED bulbs

Before renting out their property, landlords should make sure to replace all of the bulbs with LED ones. If they already have a tenant then they should make sure that they know that they could save an average of £40 every year just by using LED bulbs.

Radiator thermostats

These allow tenants to choose to boost the heat in the room that they are in rather than having to heat the whole property all the time, which will help to reduce their bills.

Insulate

Twenty-five per cent of heat loss is through the roof, so landlords should make sure that the loft is well insulated. Doing so will also have a positive effect on the property’s EPC rating.

Double-glazed windows

Properties with double-glazed windows lose, on average, just 10% of their heat through their windows. According to research, single-glazed windows are responsible for up to 70% of a property's heat loss! Investing in double-glazing can have a large effect both on a tenant’s bills and the EPC rating of the property.

Insulate the hot water cylinder

Check the thickness if you already have a jacket that fits over your tank. If it isn't at least 80mm thick, think about getting a new one. Increasing the insulation from 25mm to 80mm thick can save up to £70 per year.

We have seen a definite increase in the importance of EPC ratings to tenants who are wary of renting properties that cost a fortune to heat. If you are looking to rent out your property and would like some advice on how to make your property more energy efficient please give us a call on 01925 235 338 and we will be happy to advise you.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

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Warrington Property Market Report March 2023

Encouraged by the slow but steady return of warmer weather, homebuyers and sellers are coming out of hibernation, and the local property market is getting increasingly busy. It is something that estate agents fondly refer to as The Spring Rush!

Homebuyers who wish to be settled in their new homes in time for Summer know that they are now in a race against the clock to find a property and give themselves enough time for the purchase to be completed.

Let’s have a brief look at what’s been happening over the last month in the local Warrington property market.

There are currently 458 properties available for sale in Warrington. This is a 6% increase in the number of available properties since December when there were 430 available. Last month, there were 447 and the month before there were 445.

Of the 458 properties that are currently available, 82 came to the market in the last two weeks. That is 17 more than were put on the market in February. In January, there were 73 properties that were new to the market; in December there were 33; in November, there were 48; and in October, there were 71. This is good news for buyers and shows that the market has changed from a sellers' market to a buyers' market. Buyers now have more choice and feel less rushed into making a decision.

The average price of properties in Warrington is £269,292. This is an increase of 3% since last month, when the average house price was £261,154. The median price is £235,000.

Most of the properties available are in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket, with 161 currently on the market. This is down from 182 last month. In January there were 192, in December there were 191, and in November there were 170 available.

There are 37 properties available in the £500,000 to £1 million bracket and they are spending on average 124 days on the market.

Properties in the £300,000 - £400,000 bracket remain the fastest movers, reducing the amount of time they spend on the market from 87 days in February to 64 days in March. In January, they spent an average of 61 days on the market. In December, they spent on average 80 days on the market. In November, properties in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket were the fastest movers; they were on the market for 92 days.

They are closely followed by properties in the £400,000 to £500,000 bracket, which are now taking on average 92 days to sell, down 5 days since last month. This is a decrease of 111% since November, when they were spending on average 194 days on the market.

One-bedroom properties had a median price of £95,000 in January and December, up from £90,500 in November. In February and March the median price of a one-bedroom property in Warrington was £90,000 with an average price of £96,476. They are currently sitting on the market for an average of 281 days, down from 290 days in February. In January they sat on the market for an average of 297 days; in December, 288 days; and in November, 289.

This is another example of how selling property can take longer than people often imagine. If you’re looking to upsize from your first home, or are an investor looking to change your portfolio, please bear this in mind when planning.

Three-bedroom properties were the fastest movers in Warrington in March, spending an average of only 89 days on the market. They currently have an average price of £246,071 and a median price of £240,000.

Let’s take a look at the annual figures now.

The majority of sales in Warrington during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £249,947. Terraced properties sold for an average of £181,028, with detached properties fetching £420,874.

Overall, sold prices in Warrington over the last year were 4% up on the previous year and 11% up on the 2020 peak of £230,796.

This shows the high levels of activity in the local Warrington property market, which are likely to increase or, at the very least, remain strong as we head towards summer. There is a lot of demand and plenty of people looking to move around Warrington.

If you’re thinking of selling your property, feel free to contact us. If you’re thinking of buying, letting or renting a Warrington property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call 01925 235 338 or email staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

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7 Things You Shouldn't Do When Buying Your First Property

The process of purchasing your first home can be both thrilling and intimidating. But many would-be homeowners are unaware of the things that could derail their home purchase.

Here are the top seven things that you shouldn't do if you are buying your first property.

1. Under-estimating expenses

You must factor in moving expenses, survey fees, and conveyancing costs, in addition to the purchase price of your property. Remember that you will also need to pay council tax and insurance for the building and its contents when you move in.

2. Ignoring your credit score

Lenders use your credit score, which serves as your financial resume, to determine whether you can make your repayment commitments. Check your credit score before you apply for a mortgage and fix any mistakes to make it less likely that your application will be turned down.

3. Choosing an unsuitable solicitor

Verify that your solicitor is on the mortgage lender's list of approved solicitors to prevent having to switch later. Take advice from the estate agent about which solicitor to choose if you’re giving the option. They deal with one another all day, every day, so are able to guide you.

4. Not being on the electoral roll

The electoral roll is one of the simplest ways for lenders to confirm your identity. Your application may take longer to process, and your credit score may be impacted if you are not registered.

5. Not getting an Agreement in Principle (AIP)

The housing market is competitive. Instead of waiting for you, sellers may choose to accept an offer from someone who already has an Agreement in Principle.

6. Accumulating a lot of debt

Taking on new debt could affect your credit and make it more difficult for you to have your mortgage approved.

7. Changing careers

Avoid switching jobs in the middle of the property-buying process. It may give the impression that your employment is unstable, which weakens your application to lenders.

If you are looking to buy your first home, please give us a call on 01925 235 338 or send us an email to staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk so you will be one of the first to hear about our newest properties.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

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Do I Need An Epc?

Everyone who is advertising their residential property for rent in the UK is required by law to commission an EPC. In Scotland, it is required that the EPC be displayed in the property, usually in the meter cupboard or next to the boiler.

You can be fined for not having an EPC when you need one. There are a few possible exceptions, but the majority of them concern businesses or places of worship. For example, your property might be exempt if it is mixed-use, such as a home that is also a shop, less than 50 square metres, or used for less than four months of the year, like a holiday home.

What is an EPC?

EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. An EPC grades how energy efficient a property is from A to G and 1-100.

It includes advice on how to use less energy and money, as well as the rating the property may get if all of those recommendations were implemented. It also includes the environmental CO2 impact rating for the property. That is how much CO2 is produced during the production of hot water and heating for the property.

How is an EPC produced?

You need to employ a certified assessor to do the report. The EPC assessor will visit your property and gather information about your boiler, hot water tank, radiators, insulation, and windows. Then, they put this information into software that figures out how energy-efficient your home is and how it affects the environment.

How can you improve your EPC?

Contained in the report will be a list of ways in which you can improve your property’s EPC rating. These are not generic suggestions but will actually be specifically tailored to your property. You may decide not to use any of them. However, it is worth noting that a low EPC rating can put off potential tenants, as they may worry about the cost of heating the property.

If you want to raise your property’s rating, the single most effective thing you can do is install a new boiler. Other things that can improve the energy efficiency of your property are:

increasing the amount of loft insulation

adding solar panels to your roof

sealing unused chimneys to reduce draughts

and adding wall insulation.

It is always a good idea to keep any documentation when having insulation installed because EPC assessors only conduct a visual inspection of your property and will not be able to see any in tucked away or inaccessible areas.

It may feel like a hassle to have to arrange for an EPC to be carried out, but it can actually help you attract tenants to your property. A property with a high EPC rating will be attractive to a wide range of tenants. Many people are now concerned about their own carbon footprint and the rising cost of energy, so if your property is energy-efficient, it is definitely a plus.

If you have any questions about EPCs or would like to learn more about how we can help you through the entire property letting process, please contact us at 01925 235 338 or send us an email to staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
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How Can You Help Your Tenants With The Cost Of Living Crisis?

The rising cost of living has affected everyone. It is always in a landlord’s interest to help their tenants, wherever possible, be happy and content in their home. Happy tenants become long-term tenants, which reduces rental voids. So if you would like to know how to help your tenants cope with the cost of living crisis, here are a few things you can do.

Information Pack

By providing information on how to use the appliances and heating, how to prevent pests and mould, and other helpful maintenance information, you will not only help your tenants keep their bills down but will also reduce your own repair costs. Don't forget to tell your tenants that it's critical to report maintenance issues promptly in order to prevent problems from getting worse.

Keep the lines of communication open

Make sure that your tenants feel able to communicate with you, not just in an emergency but also about things like any issues they are facing in their lives. If you need to raise the rent, make sure that they are given plenty of notice, and take time to explain the increasing costs that you are facing as a landlord. In some cases, it can be more beneficial in the long run to keep good tenants and avoid a rental void than to raise the rent.

Improve your property’s energy efficiency

The Government’s plans to require all newly rented properties to have an EPC rating of C or above by 2025 have already encouraged around a quarter of landlords to make energy efficiency upgrades to their properties. While the initial cost may seem daunting, there are financial benefits for both tenants and landlords. Tenants benefit from having reduced bills, and landlords benefit from having a property that will meet the EPC requirements and is also more attractive to prospective tenants after the existing tenants vacate. In a recent survey, 52% of tenants said they would be happy to pay more for a more energy-efficient home.

Shop around for energy and utilities

If your tenants have a "bills included" tenancy agreement, use online price comparison websites and seek advice from other landlords to ensure that you are getting the best deal. Relieving the pressure of rising bills will help you avoid needing to increase the rent. If your tenants cover their own bills, then a suggestion of an energy or utility provider who may be able to provide them with cheaper bills will always be welcome and will let your tenants know that you care.

Council tax

You or your tenant may be eligible for a council tax rebate if your property is vacant or your tenant lives alone. It is worth doing a 1991 valuation check to ensure that your property is in the correct council tax band to make sure that you or your tenant are not overpaying.

Treating tenants with empathy is one of the hallmarks of a good landlord. Maintaining a productive relationship with your tenants has many benefits both for them and for you.

If you would like to learn more about how we can assist you in managing your property during these difficult times, please call us on 01925 235 338 or send us an email to staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk

Are You Considering Renting Out Your Property In Warrington?

Do you have a property in Warrington that you would like to rent out? Renting out a property is a great way to make some money, especially in Warrington where there is a high demand for rental properties.

We understand that renting out your property can seem intimidating if you have never done it before. There are lots of things to think about.

You need to decide how much rent you are going to charge. This is more complicated than simply deciding how much you would like. You need to consider expenses like taxes and maintenance costs.

Then you will need to find tenants, maintain your property, and deal with any issues that arise while keeping on top of ever-changing regulations.

That is where we come in. As a new landlord, you need to know what to do and what to expect before embarking on this new venture, and we will be there to help you every step of the way. We have assisted many landlords with renting out their properties and have many satisfied tenants as proof that we genuinely care about the properties we rent out and the tenants we rent to.

As your letting agent, we can take care of everything from preparing the property, keeping on top of regulations, finding tenants, checking their references, collecting the rent, and solving any issues that may arise during their tenancy.

Are you considering renting out your house in Warrington? Need some advice or want to know how we can help to make the whole process hassle free?

Email me on manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk or call on 01925 235 338 – we are based on the Warrington Business Park, Long Lane, WA2 8TX. There is plenty of free parking and the kettle is always on.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

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The First Things To Do When You Are Moving Home

Moving home is one of the most stressful things you will do and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by all of the things that you need to do. Our easy to follow list will help guide you through it.

In the lead up to moving day:

Pack early

Avoid a last minute panic and start packing early. Removing the stress of last minute packing will help make your moving day go far more smoothly.

Redirect your post

It can take up to two weeks for your post to be redirected so make sure that you arrange this nice and early then you don’t have to worry about whether you have failed to notify anyone of your change of address.

Insurance

Lenders usually require that you have buildings insurance in place before you move as a condition of them granting you a mortgage but don’t forget to organise your contents insurance before you move in as well.

Meter readings

You need to let your utility companies know which day you are moving out of your property and provide them with a final meter reading so that you don’t end up paying for your buyer’s energy or water usage.

Internet

You need to inform your internet service provider of the date you are moving home. It can take several weeks to get connected to the internet when you move so the sooner you can start the ball rolling the less time you will spend relying on mobile data.

Pack an essentials box

Having a box with everything you need for the first few days in your new home will save you from a lot of frustrated searching through all of your unpacked boxes. Make sure that you include your kettle and some tea bags for that well deserved first cup of tea in your new home.

Moving Day!

Find the essentials

No not the teabags, although those are important too! You need to find the location of the stopcock, the thermostat, the gas and electricity meters and the water meter too if you have one.

Meter readings

Once you have found your meters make sure that you take readings from all of them. Always take a photograph as it will be time-stamped so can help if there is a disagreement over your first bill.

Submit these as soon as possible to your energy suppliers, you will normally have been left their details by the sellers. If not, expect to receive a letter from them in the first few days as the previous owners will have submitted their final meter readings and the companies will be keen to make contact with the new billpayers!

Neighbours

It’s always a good idea to introduce yourself to your new neighbours. They will be the ones who will be taking in your parcels and can also be a great source of information about the area, including which pubs and restaurants to try out and which day to put out the bins. You never know, it could even be the start of a lifelong friendship.

we are always here to offer advice on any aspect of moving home so if you have a question please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01925 235 338 or send us an email to staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk.

First Time Renters' Guide

Renting a property for the first time can seem daunting, but our quick guide will leave you feeling like a seasoned tenant in no time.

Rent

Rent will be your largest monthly cost, so it is vital to work out how much you can afford before you start your search. A good rule of thumb is to allocate no more than 30–45% of your monthly income. Make sure you pay attention to whether the rental rate being advertised is per week or per month. If it is per week, multiply it by 52 and then divide by 12 to find out the monthly cost.

Security Deposit

This is normally five weeks' rent. Your landlord can make deductions from your security deposit to cover rent arrears or damage to the property when you move out.

Your landlord or letting agent is required by law to place your deposit in one of three government-backed protection schemes and provide you with the details. They must also let you know how much they propose to deduct from your deposit within 10 days of the end of your tenancy.

If you disagree with this amount, then the deposit protection schemes provide a resolution service. This can be used to settle any disputes, provided that you and your landlord agree to use it and accept the decision made.

Holding Deposit

Some letting agents and landlords charge a holding deposit. The maximum amount that they are legally allowed to charge is equivalent to one week’s rent and is held while your references are being checked. This will then either be returned to you or deducted from your first month’s rent. The landlord or letting agent is legally allowed to keep your holding deposit if you change your mind about renting the property, give false or misleading information, or fail to pass a ‘right to rent’ check.

In advance

Rent is usually paid in advance to cover the upcoming month so you will need to pay the first month’s rent before you move in.

Bills

Unless your rental agreement states otherwise you will be responsible for paying

• Council Tax
• Utility bills (gas, water and electric)
• Internet and phone bills
• Contents insurance

You may also need to pay additional service charges for things like gardening or cleaning of communal areas.

When going on a viewing, you could ask the current tenants about the cost of their bills so you have an idea of how much yours will be.

Furnished

You can rent a property fully furnished, partly furnished or unfurnished. A furnished property may cost slightly more but it is usually cheaper than having to buy all of your own furniture. However, an unfurnished property gives you more opportunity to put your own stamp on your home.

Any other costs

You are liable to pay for any damage that you cause to the property. There may also be fees for adding new tenants to the contract during the tenancy.

You may be charged to have a new set of keys cut if you lose yours, and your landlord or letting agent is legally allowed to charge you interest on your rent if you are two or more weeks behind. The interest charged can be no more than 3% above the Bank Rate per day.

Affordability

Your landlord or letting agent will want to make sure you can afford the rent. They will therefore require that you provide them with references, usually from your previous landlord and current employer.

You will also need to provide proof of income and address, usually in the form of payslips and bills. It is also normal for them to run a credit check on you so it is always wise to take some time to check your credit score through sites like Experian to make sure that there are no issues that will be flagged up.

If you are looking to rent a property in Warrington please give us a call on 01925 235 338 or send us an email to staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk to be added to our earlybird list so that you can be one of the first to find out about our latest available properties.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
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Fall In Love With Your Home This Valentine's Day

The most romantic day of the year is nearly upon us. Love is in the air and all around us are happy couples preparing to celebrate their love.

I would like to talk about a different type of love, the love you have for your home. Just like our relationships with our partners, the relationship we have with our homes goes through stages.

1. First meeting someone you like is the same as the first viewing of a property.
2. You then progress to asking them on a first date, which is like making an offer.
3. Courting and finding out more about one another is the same as the paperwork side of things the solicitors deal with.
4. The honeymoon period is when everything’s glowing and rosey. You’re completely in love and showing off your home to all your family and friends.
5. After a while though, you might start getting a bit complacent, taking your home for granted.
6. You may even feel bored and no longer enjoying the time you spend in your home.
7. Your eye may start to wander as you start noticing other homes…
8. Then you may decide to sell your home, which could be seen as the equivalent of a break-up.

If your relationship with your home has hit the complacency or boredom stage, maybe it is time to freshen up your relationship by making some changes that will benefit you both.

Whether you rearrange furniture, declutter your house, or commit to completely redecorating, changes, big or small, can help you fall back in love with your home.

If, after making some changes, you still believe that your relationship with your home cannot be saved, you will at least know that you have maximised your profit if you do decide to break up (sell).

Estate agents are the matchmakers of the property world so if you and your property have reached the end of your relationship, we will gladly help you to handle your break-up with empathy and sensitivity.

We can handle the dates (viewings) of your home with potential new owners and provide you with any constructive criticism, saving you from having to hear if the viewers simply didn't like your taste in sofas.

Once a potential buyer progresses to a second date (second viewing) we can handle all their queries and help them to decide whether your property is the right match for them.

Love cannot be rushed. Some people place an offer on a first viewing, “love at first sight”. Some people want to see it six times before they decide to make an offer, a perfect example of how love can grow.

We can help guide you through the property selling process. No matter how lucky or unlucky in love you are, we will find your home its perfect person/people.

One thing is definitely true. If you instruct us to find your property the perfect new owner, you will fall head over heels with our service and care.

If you are ready to break-up with your property and you would like to put it on the market give us a call on 01925 235 338 or send us an email to staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk and we will make sure that your property finds someone who will love it as much as you used to.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
Hamlet Homes Warrington, your local Estate Agent
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Warrington Property Market Report January 2023

2023 is in full swing and the housing market is starting to return to its normal busy levels after the usual lull in December.

Buyers who are looking in February are serious about moving, which makes this one of the best months of the year to put your property on the market. The Spring Rush is on its way and will bring many more “window shoppers." Homebuyers who are looking now tend to be motivated and have a strong drive to find their next home.

Let’s have a brief look at what’s been happening over the last month in the local Warrington property market.

There are currently 445 properties available for sale in Warrington. Last month, there were 430. Of the 445 properties that are currently available, 73 came to the market in the last two weeks. In December, there were 33 new properties that were new to the market; in November, there were 48; and in October, there were 71. This shows that the local real estate market is back to normal after the holiday slowdown.

The average price of properties in Warrington is £264,263, an increase from £252,677 in December and £250,004 in November. Despite the doom and gloom in the national media, the local property market is remaining strong.

Most of the properties available are in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket, with 192 currently on the market. This is an increase from last month, when there were 191, and the month before, when there were 170 available. In October, there were 158 available. This is good news for buyers and shows that the market has changed from a sellers' market to a buyers' market. Things have now calmed down to normal levels for the first time since the beginning of 2021, and there is now more choice once again for buyers.

There are 40 properties available in the £500,000 to £1 million bracket. This is nine more than last month and 12 more than the month before.

Properties in the £300,000 - £400,000 bracket remain the fastest movers, staying on the market for only 61 days, 19 days less than last month. In November, properties in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket were the fastest movers; they were on the market for 92 days.

Properties in the £400,000 to £500,000 bracket are now taking 100 days to sell. This is a decrease of 94% since November, when they were spending on average 194 days on the market. In December, they were taking 111 days to sell.

One-bedroom properties had a median price of £95,000 in January and December, up from £90,500 in November. They are currently sitting on the market for an average of 297 days, up from 288 in December and 289 in November. This is an increase from 249 days in October but is still a substantial decrease from 349 days in September.

This is another example of how selling property can take longer than people often imagine. If you’re looking to upsize from your first home, or are an investor looking to change your portfolio, please bear this in mind when planning.

Four-bedroom properties appear to be the fastest movers in Warrington, spending an average of only 86 days on the market, down from 91 days in November. They currently have an average price of £433,688, a 3.4% increase since December, when the average price was £419,277. The median price of a four-bedroom property in Warrington is now £422.500, up from £418,000 in December.

Let’s take a look at the annual figures now.

In the last year, most sales in the Warrington area were of semi-detached homes, which sold for an average of £231,025. Terraced properties sold for an average of £167,618; detached properties fetched £399,330.

Overall, sold prices in Warrington were similar to the previous year and 7% higher than the 2020 peak of £220,010.

This shows the high levels of activity in the local Warrington property market, which are likely to increase or, at the very least, remain strong in the first quarter of this year. There is a lot of demand and plenty of people looking to move around Warrington.

If you’re thinking of selling your property, feel free to contact us. If you’re thinking of buying, letting or renting a Warrington property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call 01925 235 338 or email staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk.

The Top Ten Features People Want In A Home In 2023

These are the top 10 things that homebuyers are prioritising in their property searches in 2023.

Open plan living

The versatility offered by open-plan living and the existence of a large communal area that is perfect for both gatherings and busy family life are highly sought after by buyers.

Home Offices

Working from home is no longer unusual, and as a result, many buyers place a lot of value on having an office space that is separate from the rest of the home.

Modern Kitchens

Efficient, sleek, and modern kitchens have been topping buyers' must-have lists for several years now.

A Pantry

Space is important to buyers. Pantries offer the ability to create space in the kitchen by storing everything you need there. They are perfect for stashing away a large weekly shop or for hiding bulk buys with ease.

Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are high on many buyers' lists of things they want because they add extra counter space, storage, and a nice focal point.

Storage

Buyers are looking for properties that feel spacious, and storage is key to this. Ample built-in storage is very attractive to buyers.

Hardwood Flooring

Durable, easy to maintain, and long-lasting, it is easy to see why hardwood floors are popular with buyers.

Outdoor Entertaining Areas

Since the pandemic, buyers have placed a premium on socialising spaces, and outdoor gathering spaces are especially popular.

Garages/outbuildings

After the pandemic, buyers have become much more interested in having enough space at home to do do-it-yourself projects or just store their things without them getting in the way of their living space.

Going Green

Energy bills are going up, the cost of living is going up, and people are becoming more aware of how they contribute to climate change. This means that homes with EPC ratings of C or above are getting more attention from potential buyers than homes with a big carbon footprint.

If you are thinking about putting your property in Warrington on the market, please call us on 01925 235 338 or staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk and we will be delighted to come and give you a free no-obligation valuation.

Pension Vs Property

Rising mortgage rates, increasing regulatory pressure to improve the EPC ratings of their rental properties, and the prospect of paying increasing amounts of tax under government plans to cut the capital gains allowance have caused many landlords to consider selling.

However, yields in the property sector are still competitive compared to the income that can be drawn from a traditional pension. The average gross yield on a new buy-to-let purchase is 6%, according to a recent survey. By contrast, a typical pension pot in drawdown has a target rate of 4%.

Mark Harris, of SPF Private Clients, said, “Demand for rental property is unlikely to fall anytime soon, with more people having to rent for longer because they can’t afford to buy, the need for good quality rental property at a reasonable price is higher than ever…what’s more, with a number of landlords selling up because the increased tax and regulatory burden has become too much, demand is only going to grow. If the rest of your investments have been in stocks, bonds and cash, it is good to have some exposure to bricks and mortar."

A fall in house prices could also work in favour of investors who are looking for an opportunity to invest in a rental property. When house prices fall, it pushes up rental yields.

Mr Harris added “Buy-to-let benefits from capital growth over the long term,” he said. “This means you can enjoy a regular and fairly predictable income, but also eventually benefit from capital appreciation should you decide to sell up and bank the profits.”

As analysts at Deutsche Bank predict that if the American economy enters a downturn, stock markets could still fall a further 25%, workers nearing retirement need to think carefully about where to place their funds in order to maximise their returns during their retirement years.

If you have been considering investing in a buy-to-let property and would like to discuss how the current market will affect your investment, please give us a call on 01925 235 338 or send us an email staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk and we will be happy to discuss your options with you.

How To Make Moving Home Fun For Children

 

Children often feel anxious when they are told that they are going to be moving home. They are concerned about whether they will like their new home, whether they will be able to see their friends, and whether they will have to change schools.

Like all of us, they simply need to be able to talk through their worries and get some answers to their questions. Taking time to sit down with them and listen to their worries and opinions is the best way to help.

Chatting in the car can be one of the best places for these sorts of chats, especially with teens.

Giving your children some autonomy over decisions such as the colour you are going to paint their new bedrooms and the furniture they would like to put in them can help to give them a sense of control. This can help alleviate the anxiety they may be feeling about moving somewhere new.

Taking your children on a viewing to see their new home can be very helpful. It gives them the impression that they helped choose which property they will live in and allows them to visualise where they will be moving to.

However, if at all possible, avoid taking them on the first viewings. This allows you to concentrate on looking at the properties and avoids the possibility of your child falling in love with a house while you do not!

Once you have had an offer accepted on a property, it can be a lovely idea to take your children on a tour of the local area. That way you can all find out where all the local parks are, where a nice cafe is, and if there are any exciting activities nearby. This will help turn a worrying experience into an exciting one, as they already know where some things are, so moving home doesn’t feel so daunting.

Make sure on moving day that you pack their most important belongings into a bag that they can keep with them. That way even when the moving truck is unloaded at the new house and they are surrounded by boxes they will still be able to cuddle and play with their favourite toys without having to worry about which box they are in.

We at Hamlet are always delighted to help your children in finding their new home. If you would like us to help you in finding the perfect new home for your entire family, please give us a call on 01925 235 338 or send us a message.

Warrington Property Market Report December 2022

The Christmas holidays and the dawning of the new year often bring changes to many. The realisation that their home is no longer right for them, wanting to move for a better lifestyle, family breakdowns or new additions.

It can be a great time of year to sell your property because those house-hunting in January tend to be serious about their move. The Spring Rush can bring many more "would be nice to move" situations whereas people now are more likely in the "have to move" camp.

Let’s have a brief look at what’s been happening over the last month in the local Warrington property market.

There are currently 430 properties available for sale in Warrington. Last month there were 405. Of the 430 properties that are currently available, 33 were new to the market in the last two weeks. In November there were 48 new properties that were new to the market and in October there were 71. The noticeable drop in properties being added to the market was to be expected as December is usually the least popular month for sellers to put their properties on the market due to festive commitments.

The average price of properties in Warrington is £252,677, an increase from £250,004 last month. The median price has stayed the same at £200,000.

Most of the properties available are in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket with 191 currently on the market. This is an increase from last month when there were 170 available. The month before that there were 158 available. This is good news for buyers and is indicative of the move from a sellers’ to a buyers’ market during this time. Things have now calmed back down to normal levels for the first time since the beginning of 2021 and there is now more choice once again for buyers.

There are 31 properties available, in the £500,000 to £1 million bracket. This is 3 more than last month and 5 more than the month before.

This month, properties in the £300,000 - £400,000 bracket were the fastest movers, only on the market for 80 days. In November properties in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket were the fastest movers, they were on the market for 92 days.

Properties in the £400,000 to £500,000 bracket are now taking 111 days to sell. This is a decrease of 75% from 194 days last month.

One-bedroom properties had a median price of £95,000 in December, up from £90,500 in November. They are currently sitting on the market for an average of 288 days, similar to last month when they were on there for 289 days. This is an increase from 249 days in October but is still a large decrease from 349 days in September.

This is another example of how selling property can take longer than people often imagine. If you’re looking to upsize from your first home, or are an investor looking to change your portfolio, please bear this in mind when planning.

Four-bedroom properties appear to be the fastest movers in Warrington spending an average time of only 91 days on the market. They have an average price of £419,277 and a median price of £418,000.

Let’s take a look at the annual figures now.

The majority of sales around Warrington during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £228,329. Terraced properties sold for an average of £166,194, with detached properties fetching £398,470.

Overall, sold prices around Warrington over the last year were 1% down on the previous year and 6% up on the 2020 peak of £219,978.

This shows the high levels of activity in the local Warrington property market, which are likely to increase or at the very least, remain strong in the first quarter of this year. There is a lot of demand and plenty of people looking to move around Warrington.

If you’re thinking of selling your property, feel free to contact us. If you’re thinking of buying, letting or renting a Warrington property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call 01925 235 338 or email staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk.

Email me on manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk or call on 01925 235 338 – we are based on the Warrington Business Park, Long Lane, WA2 8TX. There is plenty of free parking and the kettle is always on.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

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Getting Your Property Market Ready

Many sellers put off tackling jobs around their homes as they believe that buyers like to change things when they move in. However, this is a false economy that may both delay your sale and affect the price that you get for your property.

There are people who are looking for a fixer-upper but they expect their willingness to spend time doing up the property to be reflected in the price of that property.

A run-down property can also give the impression to potential buyers that you do not take care of it and will leave them wondering what larger problems are lurking unseen. So if you would like to get the best possible price for your property it can pay to tend to any odd jobs before you put it on the market.

Kerb appeal

The exterior of your house is the first thing potential buyers see and first impressions matter. Make sure your front door is free of any dents and that the door handles are in good condition. Make sure your front garden is tidy and that the latches and hinges on any gates are well-oiled and in full working order. Ensure that your roof doesn’t have any broken or missing tiles.

Interior

Repair any nail holes in your walls and if they are looking tired consider treating them to a fresh coat of paint.

Make sure your flooring is in good condition, and replace chipped or cracked floor tiles and any damaged carpet. If you have pets, having your carpets steam-cleaned can be a great way of freshening them up.

The right lighting can make even the smallest home appealing so take time to make sure all of your lightbulbs are working and fix any broken light fittings.

Bathrooms and kitchens are the most expensive rooms for potential buyers to upgrade so it is no coincidence that updating them can have the greatest effect on your property’s value. However, you don’t need to install a completely new kitchen to make a difference. Fixing leaky taps and running toilets and ensuring built-in appliances are working properly can sometimes be all that is needed to spruce up your bathrooms and kitchen.

Garden/Outdoor area

Clear away any broken items like cracked plant pots and fix things like broken panes of glass in your shed.

Living in our homes day in, and day out we can often become blind to small things that need fixing but, potential buyers who are looking at your home with fresh eyes will notice them. Asking a good friend or family member to take some time to walk around your property and point out things you may have missed can be invaluable.

Alternatively, we are always happy to come and give you some advice on how you can ensure that your property is market ready, just give us a call on 01925 235 338. If you don’t have time or feel up to fixing issues yourself we have a list of trusted local handymen who we can recommend.

If you are looking for an agent that is well established, professional and communicative, whether you’re buying, selling or looking for an investment opportunity, then contact us to find out how we can get the best out of the Warrington property market.

Email me on manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk or call on 01925 235 338 – we are based on the Warrington Business Park, Long Lane, WA2 8TX. There is plenty of free parking and the kettle is always on.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
Hamlet Homes Warrington, your local Estate Agent
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Warrington Property Market Report November 2022

Christmas songs are on the radio, there’s a flurry of activity in the shops and the promise of lots of fun with our loved ones. It is also the season for questions like whether a home is large enough for the whole family or whether, children having flown the nest, it is too large?

New Year means new beginnings for many and so inevitably the thought of a new home is on many people’s minds. All this means that the property market is approaching its traditional busy season.

Let’s have a brief look at what’s been happening over the last month in the local Warrington property market.

There are currently 405 properties available for sale in Warrington. This is 11 less than last month. Of these 405, 48 were new to the market in the last two weeks. The average price of properties in Warrington is £250,004 with the median price at £200,000.

Most of the properties available are in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket with 170 currently on the market. This is an increase from last month when there were 158 available. There are 28 properties available, in the £500,000 to £1 million bracket, 2 more than last month.

This month, properties in the £100,000 to £200,000 bracket are the fastest movers, only on the market for 92 days. They are closely followed by properties in the £400,000 to £500,000 which only remain on the market for 94 days. Properties priced at £100,000 and under, are now taking 194 days to sell, an increase from 162 days last month. One-bedroom properties with a median price of £90,500 are currently sitting on the market for an average of 289 days. This is an increase from 249 days last month but is still a large decrease from 349 days in September.

This is another example of how selling property can take longer than people often imagine. If you’re looking to upsize from your first home, or are an investor looking to change your portfolio, please bear this in mind when planning.

Let’s take a look at the annual figures now.

The majority of sales around Warrington during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £227,440. Terraced properties sold for an average of £164,980, with detached properties fetching £399,569.

Overall, sold prices around Warrington over the last year were 2% down on the previous year and 14% up on the 2019 peak of £203,826.

This shows the high levels of activity in the local Warrington property market, which are likely to increase or at the very least, remain strong in the first quarter of next year. There is a lot of demand and plenty of people looking to move around Warrington.

If you’re thinking of selling your property, feel free to contact us. If you’re thinking of buying, letting or renting a Warrington property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call 01925 235 338 or email staff@hamletwarrington.co.uk.

Simple Storage Solutions To Banish Clutter

So you’ve tried selling off your unused items, have taken everything that doesn’t spark joy to the charity shop and yet you are still struggling to keep your home free of clutter. One of the main causes of clutter in a home is not having enough storage space or simply not having it in the right places.

If you have spent time decluttering and yet still feel like your home is a disorganised mess then it's time to consider some nifty storage solutions.

Hallway

As the main entryway in and out of your home it is easy for discarded coats, bags and shoes to quickly build up. Consider investing in storage solutions so that there are easily accessible places to put these things away as soon as you enter your home. If you are worried about floorspace there are lots of wall-mounted shoe storage solutions available. If you have an overflowing shoe rack consider storing out of season shoes somewhere else until they are needed again. A few well placed hooks on the wall can be perfect for keeping coats and scarves safely stored off of the floor and a shelf mounted directly above them is perfect for storing accessories such as hats, gloves and sunglasses.

Understairs

Is the space under your stairs underused? Shelves and hooks can be used to turn that area into the perfect space to store anything from bikes to books and cleaning products to coats.

Vertical Space

If floor space is limited in your home consider using the vertical space to store your belongings. Wall mounted cabinets and shelves are ideal for keeping things off of the floor which can make a huge difference to how the space feels. Alcoves and recesses are perfect for popping small shelves in without there being any encroachment on your space.

Ceiling

Don’t be afraid to hang storage from your ceiling. Hanging mesh storage baskets are ideal for keeping your little ones cuddly toys within reach but safely contained. Ceiling mounted pan racks provide the perfect place to keep your pots and pans off of the side when cupboard space is limited in the kitchen.

Bedroom

Underbed storage boxes are ideal for packing away out of season clothes and bedding. Storage boxes that match your decor are ideal for utilising the normally wasted space on top of your wardrobe.

Attic

This is the perfect space to store belongings that you don’t use all of the time. You need to be careful to ensure that it is both well insulated and well ventilated to ensure that your belongings are protected from extreme temperatures and high levels of humidity.

If you are decluttering your home to get it ready to go on the market in Warrington please do give us a call on 01925 235 338 and we will be delighted to give you a free no-obligation valuation.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
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The Pros And Cons Of Being A Buy-To-Let Landlord

Buy-to-let property is often seen as an attractive way of accumulating wealth or as an alternative option to a pension. However, while purchasing buy-to-lets is undoubtedly a good investment, they are also a long-term commitment that require hard work and good financial planning.

If you are unsure as to whether to take the plunge and buy your first buy-to-let property then it is definitely worth considering the pros and cons of being a landlord before you invest.

PRO - Rental Income

This is the biggest incentive for people who buy a buy-to-let property. The idea of receiving regular income that not only pays off the mortgage on their buy-to-let property but also gives them a little bit extra in their pocket each month is a very attractive one.

CON - Rental Void

However, if your tenant misses a rental payment then you will be responsible for covering the mortgage payment yourself until they catch up and if you should have a period when your property is not let (a rental void) then you will be left covering all of the costs during that time too.

PRO - You’re your own boss

If you are fortunate enough to be making enough money from your rental properties to live on then you can have complete control over your income and your own time. The ability to work the hours you choose, make all the decisions and feel completely in control of their own life is what drives many landlords to build their property portfolio.

CON - Responsibilities

Being a landlord means you have both legal and moral responsibilities towards your tenants and no-one can choose or predict when urgent maintenance issues such as a leak may occur. For many people who are trying to hold down a full-time job alongside managing their buy-to-lets the responsibility is too much. An easier solution is to have your properties managed by a letting agent but this will of course cut into your profit.

PRO - Allowable expenses

You are permitted to deduct expenses from your rental income when working out your taxable rental profit. These expenses must be ‘wholly and exclusively for the purposes of renting out the property’ and includes maintenance costs, utility bills, agency fees and insurance payments.

CON - Costs

As soon as you start to make a profit from your buy-to-let property you are legally obliged to inform HMRC. You may be required to submit a tax return so that HMRC can calculate how much income tax you should pay. Buy-to-let property purchases are subject to higher stamp duty rates. Also when you sell a buy-to-let you must pay Capital Gains Tax on the amount that the property has increased in value during the time that you have owned it. Don’t forget to factor in costs such as the deposit, survey and conveyancing fees, renovation costs and the administrative costs for inventories, deposit protection, gas safety certificates and EPCs.

Being a landlord certainly requires more time, effort and planning than most people think it does but for those willing to put in the work it can be a highly profitable endeavour.

If you are considering becoming a landlord and would like to know more about how we can help you to manage your property please do give us a call on 01925 235 338 and we will be delighted to help you.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
Hamlet Homes Warrington, your local Estate Agent
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Turn Your Clutter Into Cash

 

We are a nation of secret and sometimes not so secret hoarders. It’s rare for a home to be completely clutter free. If the surfaces are empty, you can nearly always guarantee that there will be at least a couple of overstuffed cupboards.

However, there is something that may motivate you to declutter.

The stuff you haven’t seen let alone used for years could actually help you to pay your rising energy bills or contribute towards a well earned break in the sunshine.Second hand items are also good for the environment as they reduce the amount of things that go to landfill.

So decluttering can be good for your home, your wallet and the environment!

Research

Gone are the days when eBay was your only option for selling your unwanted items. Now there are a whole range of sites, some of which specialise in certain items, such as Vinted or Depop where you can sell clothes and accessories.

Facebook Marketplace can be a great way of selling items without having to pay any commission, as can local sites like Nextdoor.

Be honest

If there is any damage to your item it is better to be upfront about it rather than have it returned to you. To save yourself and the buyer time haggling if there is any damage, reflect this in the price.

If you think your item isn’t worth selling then try putting it on a site like Freecycle.

You won’t benefit financially from selling it but you will be stopping it from going to landfill so there is a feel-good reward.

Make sure the price is right

Be sensible when you are setting the price. Just like when you are selling a property, if you set the price too high then there will be little interest and then your item will be further devalued when it sits unwanted on the selling site for ages.

However, you also don’t want to set the price so low that it simply isn’t worth your time and effort to sell it.

Photographs

Taking lots of photographs will reduce the amount of time and the number of “no thanks” that you will get when selling an item as a collection only.

It will also increase your chances of selling your items online and reduce returns as people like to see clearly what they are purchasing.

To increase your chances of a swift sale, just as when selling a property, good photographs are essential. Keep the background clutter free, make sure that the lighting is good and ensure that you take photographs from several angles.

If you are decluttering in order to sell your home and would like some advice or a free no-obligation valuation then please do give us a call on 01925 235 338 .

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
Hamlet Homes Warrington, your local Estate Agent
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Five Things That Can Cause Good Tenants To Leave

There are many reasons that tenants decide to give notice and many of these have absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with either the property or their landlord. However, there are some things that cause tenants to leave that are completely preventable.

Rent is too high

Annual rent increases can increase rent beyond a level that the tenant is either able or willing to pay for your property. Make sure that any increases in rent are in line with rents for the local area. If you have a good tenant then sometimes avoiding a rental void while you look for a new tenant can be more financially beneficial than an increase in rent can be.

Upsizing

Your tenant may need a larger property due to a growing family or relatives needing to move in with them for health or financial reasons. While you cannot magically make your property larger, if you have a larger rental property available and they are good tenants it is always worth mentioning to them that you have a bigger property available if you are getting the impression that they are outgrowing their current home.

Neighbours

You may think that there is nothing you can do if your tenant does not get on with their neighbours however, this is not the case. Sometimes simply acting as a mediator between your tenants and their neighbours can be enough to solve any disputes. Listen to both sides. The neighbours may not even be aware that they are doing anything wrong. If that doesn’t help and they are renting, try discussing the problem with their landlord who is likely to be just as keen as you for peace to be resumed. If this does not yield any results then your next step is to get the local council involved. Unsightly piles of rubbish, noise disturbances and anti-social behaviour are all things that the council can help with.

Maintenance issues

This is something that is completely within your power to solve. Not fixing things you have promised to fix or not responding when a tenant contacts you about a maintenance issue can cause the relationship between you and your tenant to break down. Avoid losing good tenants because of maintenance issues by making sure that you resolve problems as soon as you are notified about them. Regular inspections give you an opportunity to spot issues before they grow. If you live far away or are too busy to be able to attend to problems swiftly then consider employing an agent to manage your property for you. It is cheaper than having rental voids due to losing good tenants.

Buying a home

Unless they would like to buy your property and you are happy to sell it to them then this is something you really can’t solve. Wish them well and ask them if they have any friends who are looking for somewhere to rent that they would recommend as tenants.

By keeping on top of issues that may cause your tenants to leave you can reduce tenant turnover and rental voids leading to a better experience for both you and your tenants. If you would like to discuss how we can help you to manage your property please give us a call on 01925 235 338.

Don't forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Warrington Property News.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOUR WARRINGTON HOME IS WORTH FOR FREE
Hamlet Homes Warrington, your local Estate Agent
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