6 Tips to Help you Find the Best Lettings Agent in Warrington

So, you’ve got a property to rent out in the Warrington area?

Perhaps you’ve bought it specifically to rent out, or maybe you have inherited it and want to make it pay its way. Whatever your reasons, you’ve decided to employ the services of a local Warrington lettings agent to help you!

But how do you choose the right lettings agent?

We work with a lot of landlords in the Warrington area and we know that they need support from lettings agents just like us to help them become even more successful.

To help you make the right choice, the Hamlet Homes Warrington team have put our heads together and have come up with six tips for finding the right lettings agent.

(Of course, if you want to just give us a call now, that’s fine too! Our number is 01925 235 338 or you can email us on manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk

1. What do you Want from your Lettings Agent?

Decide what you actually want from a lettings agent, and then check what services a particular agent actually offers. You might want to do most of the work yourself, with the letting agent simply marketing the property for you or finding a tenant. You may want them to completely manage the tenancy throughout. There are cost implications, and time implications too, but if you don’t know what you want, you won’t be able to choose the most suitable lettings agent in the first place.

Our Advice It sounds simple, but draw up a list of what you think you want a lettings agency to do. Then speak to several different agents.

2. Make Sure the Lettings Agent Knows the Area

It’s of paramount importance that your lettings agent knows the lie of the land. Do they know what type of property rents best in Warrington and do they know what sort of rent you should expect in Warrington? You want your agent to know what they’re talking about so that you benefit.

Our Advice Devise a series of questions that you can ask your shortlist of potential lettings agents. If they are like us, they will know the answers!

3. Is the Lettings Agent up to Speed with latest Legislation?

Being a landlord brings with it a number of legal responsibilities. Your lettings agent should make you aware of these so that everything is done by the book. You will rely on your agent to remind you of important legalities such as gas and electrical certificates so make sure they are fully up to speed on all the current guidelines.

Our Advice See how helpful a potential lettings agent is by asking if they know who to contact for gas safety checks and the electrical inspection condition reports.

4. How Efficient is the Lettings Agent?

A great lettings agent will not only find you a good tenant, but they’ll be highly communicative and go through all the paperwork with you too. They’ll make sure that the right financial checks take place, and, if needed, the right to rent checks too. They will also sort out the contractual information like the shorthold tenancy agreement and the all-important tenancy deposit.

Our Advice Choose a lettings agent who knows their stuff, but one who can communicate well with you too so that you understand the processes involved with being a landlord.

5. What do their Reviews Say?

You don’t have to leave the sofa for this one! There are a number of review websites and social media platforms where people can leave reviews. Have a look and see what people are saying about particular lettings agents in Warrington.

Our Advice Most reviews are genuine, but just be mindful that on social media some reviews should be taken with a pinch of salt. Use your judgement well.

6. Draw up a Final Shortlist

So you’ve done your homework and you know what you want from a lettings agent. You know what sort of rent you want or need to achieve, you know what sort of level of service you need, and you’ve read the reviews.

The next thing to do is draw up a shortlist of two or three lettings agents and contact them. Ask questions and see how they respond to you.

You’ll get a gut feel as to whether or not you want to work with them. We’re a great believer in dealing with people you can trust and comfortably do business with.

Our Advice Choosing the right lettings agent for you and your property is important; it has to work well for you.

Getting the right team on board is a surefire way to success. We’ve been helping landlords in Warrington for many years, and we will be delighted to have an initial chat with you about your requirements. Call us on 01925 235 338 or email us at manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
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£415,755 – ‘Wood’ You Pay That for a Warrington Semi-Detached House?

The value of an average Warrington semi-detached house has increased in value by £25,906 in the last 12 months, an increase in value of 13.21%.

Yet the costs of building a Warrington home have shot up even more in the last 12 months, meaning the price of Warrington new homes and any building works you do to your Warrington home in the coming months and years could be a lot higher.

The British house building profession is experiencing a building materials supply problem. Everything from cement to bricks, timber and roof tiles, plastic guttering, copper wire and pipe to insulation, even kitchen sinks have become scarce – and when people can find them, they are costly.

For example, looking at the timber industry, three-quarters of the UK's building timber comes from abroad, so lockdowns around Europe put a restraint on the timber processing industries of Sweden, Lithuania and Latvia throughout 2020. In addition, building material supply chains were interrupted due to the lockdowns imposed by their governments, resulting in many sawmills in those countries restricting shift work to comply with their country’s social distancing rules. Some mills even stopped all work for eight weeks last year, meaning they were incapable of cutting, milling or treating timber, causing their existing stocks of building wood to run dry.

Yet, whilst we were all in lockdown, everyone started doing DIY projects, so the public demand for building timber in the UK remained high, giving little opportunity for UK sawmills (let alone North-eastern Europe) to catch up and restock to the levels previously held before the pandemic.

Building timber costs 112% more than a year ago, steel RSJ’s are a lot more expensive because iron ore has gone up 120.1% whilst aluminium is up 56.8%, and copper is up 59.7%.

All the blame cannot be laid at the feet of the virus and lockdown. The ‘B’ word caused issues with supply at the start of the year. Building materials are a worldwide supply chain issue; this Spring’s Suez boat crisis, when many boats were diverted around Africa (as the length of time the blockage was going to last was unknown) exacerbated the problem. All this has combined to make the cost of sending a 40ft container from China to Tilbury Docks £7,576 today, compared to £1,195 just before the crisis. Also, supplies of sand and cement are particularly low with massive demand from the large £98bn High Speed 2 (HS2) rail project. All this combined is affecting many building projects, big and small, across the UK.

If an average Warrington semi-detached house had risen by the price of building timber in the last 12

months, today it would be worth £415,755, not the current £222,017.

RSJ (steel joists) take twenty weeks to arrive, compared with the typical five weeks, whilst plasterboard is being rationed with weeks of delays for the ‘good stuff’ and MDF wood, usually takes seven days to arrive; now it takes over a month. Roof battens need to be ordered a month in advance, whilst pre-lockdown they were commonly held in stock by every building merchant.

Demand for building materials has increased so quickly because many British homeowners are driving the explosion. Those people in safe jobs with little opportunity to spend money on foreign holidays and fancy restaurants decided to invest in their property and gardens. According to the Bank of England, this craving for home improvement has particularly exploded since the mature generation started to be double jabbed (their savings accounts have increased by £180bn during the pandemic).

As I have explained in previous articles, these increases in the price of raw material will fuel inflation, possibly affecting interest rates upward. An increase in interest rates will make a material difference to the value of Warrington property. To what extent? Please read my previous articles on the Warrington property market.

Please do share your stories of issues with builders and building materials over the last 15 months in the comments. I appreciate any stories you can provide to help others in Warrington.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

5 Amazing Lighting Tips to Help You Sell Your Home in Warrington

There are so many different tasks to take care of when selling your home in Warrington, from getting all the paperwork done to packing your old home up, to finding the right estate agent to help you sell it. Just when you think you’ve got everything covered, you find something else that needs taking care of.

Selling a property requires some effort on your part! After all your hard work into preparing your home for sale, you don’t then want your work to be sabotaged by the one little detail that so many people overlook: the lighting in your home.

When you’re trying to sell your home, first impressions make all the difference. Homes that are poorly lit and dark are less appealing to potential buyers. Low lighting makes the space look and feel smaller, colder, uninviting, and dingy, even if it isn’t. It can also look as though you are trying to conceal some kind of flaws in the shadows, which can be a huge turn off for buyers.

Good lighting is crucial, but if you don’t have the time or the budget to overhaul the lighting in every room of your home, have no fear. You can still improve your lighting situation and in turn, increase the likelihood of your home being sold sooner.

Here are five great lighting tips to help sell your home.

1. Audit each room’s lighting

The first step to take is to check out how each room in your home fares when it comes to it’s current lighting. Open all the blinds, pull back the curtains and turn on all the lights, then do a walk-through of every room in your home. You also might want to do this at a few different times during the day since viewings can happen from day right through to the evening when it’s darker. Try it in the morning with the morning sun, in the afternoon in full sun, in the evening at sunset, and then once the sun has completely set. It’s also a good idea to try it on rainy or cloudy days.

While you’re conducting your audit, put yourself in your potential buyer’s shoes and think about what they would think if they were walking through. Take note of any areas that are lit very well and any areas that need more lighting. If it helps, use your phone camera to take photos to highlight which spaces need some work.

2. Remember exterior lighting

Don’t forget about your home’s exterior lighting! Your home’s kerb appeal is important no matter what time of day. Consider that potential buyers could drive past your home at any time, or evening passers by could see the ‘for sale’ sign in your front garden. You want to make a good impression on these people, so keeping the exterior of your home well lit is crucial. The front porch and path leading to the door should be lit well to make your home look warm and welcoming. If you have a garden or patio, it should also be lit to help make the space look inviting and to highlight any features that are worth seeing.

3. Upgrade your current fixtures

Most home buyers are willing to accept that there will be some improvements needed once they move in, but the more work you’ve done for them, the more appealing your home is. This includes any dated light fixtures or fittings that don’t work anymore.

You also may want to consider upgrading your lightbulbs to LED lights which have less of an environmental impact, generate less heat, and allow you to get longer use out of your bulbs.

4. Use tricks to help brighten dark spaces

Sometimes your lighting may be fine but wall colours or decoration dark, making the rest of the room feel gloomier and smaller than it actually is. To combat this, you can address those problems directly by repainting and changing the colours. If you don’t have the time or the budget to go that far, you can take a few other steps that are quicker and easier.

Strategically placing mirrors to help reflect light can help the room seem brighter and more open, especially in rooms with small windows or windows that don’t actually offer much natural light. Additionally, adding bright or light coloured cushions, blankets, pictures, or rugs can help brighten up your space in an instant.

5. Add more lighting if needed

When all else fails, adding extra lighting in dark spaces will be sure to do the trick. Table lamps and desk lamps can be stylish ways to bring more light into the room while adding accent lighting can help create or highlight an existing focal point. If you want to take it to the next level, under cabinet lighting, tread lighting for dark stairways and track lighting for shadowed ceilings will definitely brighten up the whole space.

If your property is for sale or you are thinking of selling your home, why not try some of these lighting tips today and ensure you create a lighter, brighter space ready for viewers. For further property related advice, contact the team at Hamlet Homes Warrington on 01925 235 338 and we will be delighted to offer you professional guidance.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

How Eco-friendly are Warrington Homes?

‘It’s Not Easy Being Green’, was the song that Kermit sang on Sesame Street.

Yet now being green is a normal way of life for most of us. Walking or cycling places instead of taking the car, recycling and even shunning meat are some of the things most Warrington households are trying to do their ‘bit’ for going green.

Our conduct may have improved but when it comes to our Warrington homes, there is still a long way to go. It is estimated around a fifth of carbon emissions come from home energy usage (nearly three quarters from heating and lighting). The country is releasing 37% less carbon into the atmosphere than in 1990, yet we have legally binding targets to hit 100% by 2050 — and the Committee on Climate Change has stated the UK will need to eradicate greenhouse gas emissions from homes to meet that target.

Landlords were hit first because since April 2018, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations with regards to eco-friendliness of the rental properties have required all rental properties to have a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘E’ or above otherwise it is illegal to let out a property, bar a couple of exceptions. This has meant Warrington landlords have had to spend many thousands of pounds to improve their rental property’s EPC rating (an EPC rating of ‘A’ being the best eco rating through to a ‘G’ for the worst – just like washing machine or fridge ratings).

But new Government plans could hit Warrington homeowners in the pocket as well.

The Government is planning to force banks and building societies to penalise people wanting a mortgage of draughty low-eco homes with an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of D or lower. For those properties not hitting the correct level of EPC rating, it is suggested some form of levy will be placed on the mortgage provider, who in turn will pass that on to the home buyers in the form of higher mortgage payments. Some are describing this charge as an ‘eco-mortgage levy’.

Just under 6 in 10 (56.5%) homes in Warrington would be hit by this ‘eco-mortgage levy’, thus potentially reducing the value of those homes

Interesting when you compare this with the national average of 60.6%.

In real numbers, 39,625 homeowners and landlords in our local authority area would either struggle to get a mortgage from a bank or building society or it would cost them more because they were a ‘D’ rating on their EPC or below.



Looking at the stats broken down for Warrington:

• 54 properties are classified as A on the EPC register
• 6,559 properties are classified as B on the EPC register
• 23,874 properties are classified as C on the EPC register
• 28,676 properties are classified as D on the EPC register
• 8,765 properties are classified as E on the EPC register
• 1,703 properties are classified as F on the EPC register
• 481 properties are classified as G on the EPC register

So, what can Warrington homeowners and landlords do to improve their EPC rating?

Well surprisingly, it need not cost a lot to improve the EPC rating of your Warrington home. One of the most inexpensive ways to help improve your Warrington home’s energy efficiency is low energy light bulbs with an estimated cost of just under £40 per UK property. Other efficiencies can be gained by insulating your hot water cylinder, draught proofing any single glazed windows, increasing your loft insulation and upgrading your central heating controls, all of which can be done for a total of around £750 to £850 per property.

If you want to know the EPC rating of your home, either google the phrase ‘EPC register’ or send me a message and I will find out for you.

Finally, as Kermit famously also said, “Life's like a movie. Write your own ending”. If you are a Warrington homeowner or Warrington landlord, why not look at your property’s EPC rating and look at the recommendations. You are going to have to spend the money sometime, so why not do it now and enjoy lower energy bills and when you come to sell, you won’t be penalised ... a win-win situation for you and the planet?

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

When you find your dream property in Warrington you don’t want anyone else to have it, so it’s quite normal to want to jump straight in with an offer, but here at Hamlet Homes Warrington naturally we want all our clients to be happy and so that involves always negotiating the best price whether we are involved in the sale or purchase of a property. It’s always worth taking your time to negotiate the best deal – and here’s how we do it.

We know the local property market

Simply jumping in with a random offer, because you think that’s what the house is worth, can mean that you won’t get the best deal. We research the market thoroughly and keep a close eye on property prices. We make it our business to find out what other properties in Warrington were listed for versus the price that was eventually paid. And we note how long homes stay on the market.

We work for you!

We are always working for you and it’s in our interest to achieve the best price for your property if you’re selling and negotiate the deal you are happy with if you are buying.

We can advise you regarding your ‘buying position’

We’ve been in business a long time and can sniff out certain types of sellers who are on the lookout for buyers in strong positions, such as:

• Cash buyers
• Buyers with no chain
• Clients who are keen to buy quickly with their own property sold
• First time buyers who have their mortgage funding secured
• Buyers who are renting or have some sort of flexibility in their move

If you can show that you’re in a good position to move and can complete the process quickly, then in our experience, sellers will offer a little more flexibility. Nobody wants to be stuck in a chain or waiting for someone else’s house to sell for the sake of a few thousand pounds, so this can invariably make an offer attractive.

We are professional and friendly at all times

We know that selling your family home can be an emotional experience, and some sellers will feel highly attached to their properties. After all, you may have spent years living there there and have lots of memories. Negotiations are always easier when empathy is shown and we pride ourselves on always being willing to work with our clients to reach an agreement whatever the situation.

We will work to secure the best deal

In many cases, negotiations initially start with a firm no on first offer! However, this is perfectly normal. If your first offer is rejected, we will work with you on a second offer and advise you if any counteroffer is forthcoming, liaising with the seller throughout.

We understand that buying a house can be a stressful process, and sometimes when you find the right property, it’s easy to get carried away. However, it’s advisable to speak with us regarding your budget before commencing negotiations so that we can handle this for you, allowing you to get the best deal on your dream home.

Call the team at Hamlet Homes Warrington today on 01925 235 338 and let us negotiate the best deal on your next home.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

The Benefits of Owning a Buy to Let Property

Owning a buy to let in Warrington and renting out your property can be very rewarding. It can be a way of having a regular income coming in, together with actually owning something that should increase in value over time.

If you are considering renting out a property, there are many things you need to make sure you get right, such as rental income, statutory obligations (e.g. gas and electric certificates), and of course having the right tenants in-situ.

What are the benefits of a Buy To Let?

You’ll have the option of a Buy to Let mortgage

Unless you can fund your property purchase with cash, the chances are that you will need a buy to let mortgage. For landlords, this is the most popular way of acquiring property, which in itself can benefit you in a number of ways including:

• Interest only payments
• Longer mortgage terms
• Mortgage payments can be offset against tax
• Less strict regulatory processes

The good news is that there are a number of products and lenders out there to choose from, and you should be able to get a good deal from a lender.

If you have a larger than average deposit to put down, for example around 35 to 40 per cent, then the deals get even better.

Consumer website which.co.uk has some very useful information on mortgage deals worth looking at, and of course as your local estate agent we are happy to help and put you in touch with a recommended mortgage adviser who will assist you with lending criteria and affordability.

You’ll get potential high returns on your money

When you own a rental property, you should benefit in two ways, financially speaking. Firstly, you’ll have a monthly income stream coming in. If you’ve done your sums right and have a rental income that produces a good yield, then this is good news.

Secondly, you should see your property price go upwards over the years. Despite everything, property is still seen as a sound investment. We know for example that as soon as a rental property in Warrington is marketed, then we get a huge number of enquiries.

Top Tip Do your homework. If you need help making sure everything adds up, talk to us and we’ll do our best to help you.

You’ll diversify the risks

It’s fair to say that the economy has taken a battering over recent months. High street shops and large businesses have come a cropper because of lockdowns and uncertainties over investment going forward. Where previously you may have been certain of your other investments, perhaps now there’s an added element of risk.

If you have a few pounds stashed away in various projects or investments and are worried what the future might hold, property in Warrington is still seen as a sound investment with good returns. Again though, you must do the maths and look at interest and repayments and make sure the rental income covers not only fixed costs, but also maintenance and the other expenses associated with rental properties.

Top Tip Seek the advice of a trusted lettings and property expert to find out which areas will present the best opportunity for rental incomes.

You can help friends and family

We’ve seen a trend recently of people investing in buy to let properties as a way of helping friends and family out, while at the same time building up a property portfolio.

It’s an interesting concept and will not be for everyone but if you know someone going to college or university, it could be a way of generating useful cashflow.

Top Tip There are rules and regulations that tenants and landlords have to abide by whether your tenant is someone known to you or not! It’s probably even more important to get it right if you rent to friends or family as you won’t want conflict in the future.

These are just some of the benefits to owning a buy to let property. There are many things to think about, so if you would like some expert help, do give us a call and we’ll talk you through it. Hamlet Homes Warrington are your local property experts for the Warrington area. Call us on 01925 235 338 or email manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

Warrington Buy-to-Let Property Market Going into Crisis?

 

Warrington landlords, sell your property portfolios, your tenants will soon be leaving in droves as they buy their first home with the new 5% deposit mortgages backed by the Government’s new mortgage-guarantee scheme revealed in March’s budget! These 95% mortgages are to be supported by the Treasury, lessening losses for mortgage lenders should the borrower be incapable of repaying and get repossessed, as the Government want Generation Rent to turn into Generation Buy.

This sounds like the death knell for buy-to-let investment in Warrington as many tenants will soon be buying their first home

– or is it?

It’s true that on first impressions it might look like many Warrington first-time buyers will now be leaving their rental properties in their droves with this new low deposit mortgage scheme. However, these potential Warrington first-time buyers are facing four big issues which will inhibit their ability to take advantage of the mortgage scheme, meaning many will continue to rent.

Firstly, the mortgage rate for 95% mortgages has increased. The lowest five-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 5% deposit today (with Barclays) is 3.45%, up from 2019’s best rate of 2.75%. That doesn’t sound a lot, yet it makes a massive difference to the monthly mortgage payments (as you will see below).

Secondly, due to pent-up demand post lockdown and the stamp duty holiday, this has increased demand for Warrington property, placing upward pressure on Warrington property prices which has made it problematic for first-time buyers to get on the Warrington property ladder. This has meant ...

the average price of a Warrington first-time buyer property has risen from £140,061 to £146,189 in the last 12 months …

in turn this means, Warrington first-time buyers have had to save an additional £306.40 for their deposit to keep up with the house price increase. That means …

the monthly payment on a 30-year mortgage for a Warrington first-time buyer has jumped from £543.20 per month in 2019 to £619.76 a month today, an increase of £76.56 per month.

The third issue is demand for Warrington first-time property from buy-to-let landlords is surpassing supply, adding further fuel to the fire of driving up prices. Finally, the fact that most Warrington first-time buyers are of the younger generation and it’s the younger workers that have been most at risk of unemployment or salary cuts during the economic crisis.

You might say things will change in 2022 but would it surprise you that 95% mortgages have been available to first time buyers since the summer of 2010 and were only withdrawn during the first lockdown in 2020?

Since 2010, even with ultra-low interest rates, the number of private rented properties in the UK has grown by 580,000 households from 3.8m households to 4.4m households and will continue to grow, let me explain why.

The notion that buy-to-let property is a strong long-term investment has not altered with the pandemic. Since 1930 with the all the crises we have had with WW2, the Oil Crisis, 3 day week and hyper-inflation in the 1970’s, Warrington property has been a hedge against inflation and in addition, delivers a decent income yield of 6% and upwards. Not bad when compared to the 0.5% with a savings account (if you are lucky).

It is a fact that those landlords that see buy-to-let investment in Warrington as a long-term strategy will win.

It is certainly the case that I am starting to see an exodus of the ‘amateur landlord’, leaving more professional landlords who see ‘landlord-ing’ as a business, not a game. Those long-term Warrington landlords can see through the present predicament as they have a long-term buy-to-let investment mindset.

Many Warrington landlords are intensely aware that demand for high quality private rental properties in Warrington is only going to flourish as a consequence of the pandemic; whilst not forgetting that demand presently exceeds supply. Also, those same Warrington landlords know that a responsible approach to their tenants with regard to condition and repairs is a key to ensuring the rent keeps flowing in with minimal void periods.

Finally, even though Warrington house prices are, on average, on the up, there are still some bargains even in this market. By doing their homework and working with an agent like myself, these savvy Warrington landlords are paying reasonable prices, thus giving them a sturdier rental yield and the ability for future capital growth.

If you are a Warrington landlord, as my clients all know, I am here to help and guide landlords on their long-term investment strategy. I therefore extend this offer to all Warrington landlords, irrespective of whether you manage your property yourself, or use one of my excellent competitor agents in Warrington, I am here to help.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
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7 Tips for a Smooth House Move With Children

 You’ve been looking at houses, dealing with potential buyers, managing the purchase of your new home in Warrington and selling your old place, and now it’s finally setting in that a big move is coming. Even if you’ve found your dream home in the perfect area, the whole experience can still be stressful, especially when you’re moving home with children.

Uprooting your life might make sense to you, whether it’s for a new career opportunity, to be closer to family, or for a necessary lifestyle change. Your kids, however, may not be as understanding, since everything they know and are comfortable with is about to change. But, the process of moving with children doesn’t need to be a nightmare for the whole family. There are a few tips you can use to help the move go as smoothly as possible.

Tell Your Children As Soon As Possible

Some parenting experts recommend telling your children as soon as you can. It may be difficult to hide for very long anyway, as you’ll most likely have potential buyers popping in and out of your house, and your children will pick up on the fact that something is going on. You don’t want to hide anything from them because that will only add to the stress for all of you, so tell them early to help them feel included. If they’re up for it, you could also involve them and make it more exciting by letting them help choose the new house and plan what they want to take with them. However, some experts recommend only telling them a month before the move, as it gives them enough time to prepare but not too much time so that they ponder on it for too long. Whatever you decide, make sure to keep them informed and feel as though they’re being involved, even if the decision to move was your own.

Allow Them to Get Upset

It may be heartbreaking to watch, but when your children cry or throw tantrums, you need to remember this kind of reaction is normal and to let them be upset. Their entire lives are changing, and the move may be separating them from friends, beloved family members like grandparents, or a childminder they have known their whole lives. Be understanding rather than angry that they aren’t accepting the changes right away. Each child is different and accepts change at their own pace, but it usually takes around six months for kids to get comfortable with their new life in a new place.

Talk About What Will Remain the Same

With so much change happening, the stress can be overwhelming for your kids. Instead of focusing on what’s going to be different, remind them of everything that will stay the same. Their rooms may be different, but all their belongings will be the same. Their school may be different, but all their after-school activities will stay the same. It may still be hard for them to focus on what’s the same, so do your best to remind them as much as you can.

Keep Your Old Routines

Just because you’re in a new place, it doesn’t mean your old routines should change. Remember, you need to keep some aspects of your old life constant for your children to help them adjust, and one great way of doing that is to keep at-home routines going. If you have a family game night, keep that consistent. If they have specific after-school routines, make sure to follow them as best you can, even if some aspects change slightly.

Get Everyone Ready

Don’t let moving day sneak up on you unprepared! Starting the moving process as early as possible will help avoid a last-minute rush to pack and clean and will make your whole family feel prepared. It’s also helpful to make a ‘moving week plan’ with your family, down to the last detail, including what meals you’ll eat and where, who will be travelling in which car, and which belongings they can bring for the car journey. It’s also useful to pack an overnight bag for everyone for both the last night in your old home and the first night in your new one, so you don’t have to worry about immediately unpacking after a long day when you get in.

Have ‘To Do’ Lists

If your kids are old enough to handle simple jobs, create to-do lists for them to help them feel included and get some of the easier tasks off your own list. They can help with packing up their own belongings into colour-coded boxes or help with cleaning. If you have a to-do list, and they have one as well, it will feel like you’re all in this together.

Let Your Children Voice Their Opinions

Giving your kids a say in the entire moving and packing process will help them feel like they have more stability and control over the changes in their environment. Ask them what their opinions are about things like what to pack and how to decorate their new rooms, but also make sure that they feel heard and considered.

But, it’s not enough to just ask – you must also follow through and listen in order to make them feel comfortable and to ensure your move with children is as smooth as possible.

For helpful advice on all aspects of moving home, contact our friendly team at Hamlet Homes Warrington and we will be delighted to help. You can call us on 01925 235 338 or drop into our office.

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
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Sell Your Home: 6 Signs of a Great Estate Agent!

Whether you’re selling your home in Warrington or looking to rent or buy, choosing a great estate agent is a hugely important part of the process. Pick the right agent and your transaction is much more likely to go off without a hitch. You’ll be able to find the house of your dreams or get your property off the market much more quickly.

The question is, how do you distinguish between a great estate agent and a mediocre one? It can be hard to tell at the initial stage when the agent will be on their best behaviour trying to pitch their services to you. Luckily, there are some signs to look out for. Read on to find out how to spot a great estate agent:

1. They’ll have excellent online reviews

Thanks to Google, it is no longer possible for any service provider to get away with lousy service. Customers and clients can easily leave bad online reviews which will affect their future business. Look online before you decide on an estate agent. If they don’t have their own reviews section, Google Business usually has honest reviews from customers.

Search for reputable estate agents that have verified reviews. If they’ve delivered exceptional service in the past, it’s likely, they will again. The same applies to those who have delivered bad service and have poor reviews – avoid them!

2. They’ll often come recommended

One of the best ways to start your hunt for a great local estate agent in Warrington is to ask around for recommendations. If anyone within your friends and family circle is personally vouching for an estate agent, they’re likely to provide excellent service. It also adds an element of credibility, as the recommendation is coming from someone that you know and trust.

3. They’ve been doing this for a while!

Find someone equipped with the experience you need to navigate the property market. Gain an understanding of how much experience your estate agent has before choosing them for your home move.

The more experience an agent has navigating the housing market, the more easily they’ll be able to spot any issues and help you circumvent them. They may also have partners that they can recommend to help you with your move, such as independent surveyors and removal companies. If you’re buying or renting, we’d recommend opting for someone just like us as we have great local knowledge of the Warrington area.

4. Their average selling time speaks for itself

One of the signs of an effective estate agent is how quickly they can work to move your property off the market. While you want to ensure that they don’t rush the process and achieve a good price for your property, you also don’t want to wait too long when you’re ready to sell your house. A great estate agent will be skilled on how to market your property and will be able to find interested buyers and line up viewings until they get your house sold.

So, how do you find out whether your estate agent will be effective at selling your property? Ask them what their average selling time is. Beware of those with very short selling times, as this could have been done at the expense of price.

5. They offer a fair property valuation

To value a house accurately is a lot more work than you may think. All estate agents know that the property valuation you offer them could lead to you choosing to hire them or not, and they may adjust their valuation accordingly. Some agents may decide to overvalue the property to tempt you into working with them, only to reduce this to a more realistic valuation once you’ve chosen them. Opt for an estate agent that gives you a realistic valuation from the start that is aligned with the market value.

It’s perfectly okay to ask an agent to explain their valuation if you think it’s too high or too low. A great estate agent will happily explain their reasoning for their valuation and break down why they’ve given those numbers.

6. They have good communication skills

This is less easy to ‘measure’, but it’s one of the most important things that make up a great estate agent. They should be friendly and communicative so you can be sure that you will be kept informed throughout the process.

Suss out their communication style with a simple phone call or video call, although keep in mind that all agents will be putting their best foot forward at this stage!

If you are planning on moving to the Warrington area soon, why not get in touch. We’ll be happy to advise you on all our available properties in the area. Contact us on 01925 235 338 for more information and an expert, friendly service.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
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Warrington Property Market Improved by 54.2% Over Pre-pandemic Levels

The Warrington property market, for people looking to sell, is at its sturdiest for at least the last five years with home buyers jumping onto the Warrington property ladder with abandon.

Warrington house prices are anticipated to rise throughout 2021 after the Stamp Duty cut (and subsequent extension until the autumn) and the newly revealed 95% mortgages for Warrington first-time buyers (and Warrington homeowners with minimal equity).

In addition, the continued low interest rates and the demand for larger homes because of lockdown means the Warrington property market should remain bullish for a while. There is a surge in potential buyers putting themselves on mailing lists with Warrington estate agents, making the biggest disparity between supply and demand for Warrington property for many years.

Fears of a cliff edge for the Warrington housing market at the end of March have dispersed, somewhat due to the Stamp Duty tax deadline extensions, but also because the elevated level of buyer demand caused by the three lockdowns has continued to swell since the start of 2021, meaning that today …

68% of Warrington properties on the market are Sold (STC)

Interesting, when utilising data from theadvisory.co.uk website, the Warrington average for the last five years has only been 44%, meaning there has been an uplift of 54.2% in the proportion of Warrington properties sold (stc) compared to that five-year average.




Yet what can’t be forgotten is that 9 out of 20 Warrington house sellers are also Warrington house buyers as well, so whilst they do indeed achieve a higher price for their Warrington property, they also have to pay more for the Warrington property they want to buy.

So, how much will Warrington house prices rise by?

Like all things in life, it’s all about demand and supply. I have discussed the demand, yet what about the supply of properties for sale?

There are 69% fewer Warrington properties for sale today compared to 6 years ago

Whilst February saw a lower-than-normal level of new properties coming onto the Warrington property market, the easing of lockdown roadmap and faster rollout of the vaccine is also persuading more Warrington homeowners (especially those older Warrington homeowners who have had their jabs) to start making the first steps towards moving home in 2021.

This will mean there will be more Warrington properties available for sale in the conventionally busier post Easter market in the coming weeks and months which should cause more equilibrium and help keep Warrington property prices in check.

These are interesting times for the Warrington property market. If you are a Warrington homeowner or Warrington landlord looking to buy or let your Warrington property in the coming weeks or months, don’t hesitate to drop me a line to discuss what all the points raised in article mean to you.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

7 Must Ask Questions When Viewing a Property for Sale in Warrington

 

Buying a house in Warrington is likely to be the most expensive purchase you will ever make. Yet the decision to make an offer on something worth hundreds of thousands of pounds is made, on average, in just 25 minutes. Some people can spend longer than that deciding whether to purchase a £49 pair of shoes!

So, as the buying decision is usually made with such speed, it’s vital that when viewing a property you ask your estate agent as many questions as possible in order to make an informed decision and avoid the dreaded “I wish I’d asked…..” scenario.

Whilst a property may indeed have the ‘wow factor’, sweeping you off your feet as you cross the threshold, don’t be blinkered by the aesthetics of a property. Instead delve deeper and consider asking the following questions:

How long has the property been on the market?
If the property has been for sale for more than three or four months, it’s worth investigating why. The average time it takes to sell a property in the UK is usually around 12 weeks, however there is no ‘one size fits all’ timescale as there are so many factors involved. This includes price, location, economy and so on. That said, it could be an issue relating to the property itself that other potential buyers have spotted, and you have not, so it is always worth asking.

How much interest has there been in the property?
If you’re already getting feel good vibes about a property as you pull up on the driveway, its likely other viewers have felt the same! Ask how many viewings have taken place and if any offers have already been made – your estate agent can advise you but cannot disclose the actual offer amounts. This will give you an indication of its popularity.

How long have the current owners lived in the property?
If the owners have only lived in the property for a short period of time, it’s vital to discover why. There could be a perfectly legitimate reason such as an unexpected job move or family reasons, but asking the question gives you a chance to suss out any other potential issues such as neighbour disputes (which sellers are legally obliged to divulge) or problems with the house or land itself.

What is Warrington like?
You may already be familiar with the area or have carried out some independent research, but if not, aim to ask pertinent questions about local schools, accessibility to facilities such as doctors, hospitals, vets and supermarkets. You can even ask your estate agent if they would be happy to live in the area. What’s important is you bear in mind that whilst you can easily renovate a property – you cannot pick it up and move it to a new location!

What is the water pressure like?
Is it rude to turn on the taps and the shower when you’re viewing a property? Opinions vary but imagine waking up after the first night in your new home and discovering that your beautiful shiny shower looks great but barely produces even a trickle of the wet stuff! As you view a property, check the water pressure and plumbing. It may appear to be a trivial thing and may even not be a deal breaker for you, but it’s good to know exactly what you’re getting before you make an offer.

What are the running costs of the property?
Think about council tax, gas and electricity bills, water rates and other utilities as these can all add up. Ideally, it’s best to get an exact cost from the vendor so you can ensure your monthly budget fits. And, on the topic of utilities, you may also like to ask about broadband speeds in the area, particularly if you work from home and rely on a strong internet connection.

When are the vendors planning to move?
In other words, have the sellers found their next property? If so, how far through the buying process are they? No-one wants to be in a long chain as this can create complications and delays, and of course the ideal situation is that the property is chain-free although this is not always possible. Knowing that the sellers are organised and keen to move quickly can reassure you that the sale will be efficient!

The Final Checks
Love the sun? Check which way the property faces! If there is a beautiful terrace but it faces due North, then there won’t be too many opportunities to soak up any golden rays!

Want to make improvements or renovate? If it’s an old property check whether it’s listed or in a conservation area as restrictions may apply.

Keep your nose trained! Fresh paint could mean the sellers are covering cracks or damp – or they may genuinely want the property to look it’s best!

Remember, most properties are purchased through a mixture of head and heart, so stay objective!

For more advice when buying a property in Warrington speak with a member of the Hamlet Homes Warrington team on 01925 235 338 today!

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

Plan and Prepare: Your Moving Home Checklist Courtesy of Hamlet Homes Warrington

 

Moving home! The very thought of it is probably enough to send shivers down your spine and cause you to break out in a cold sweat, and this is unsurprising as moving home is right up there with divorce and death when it comes to heightened stress levels!

The fact is though, that any kind of ‘change’ creates stress and whether you are moving home within Warrington or relocating from further afield, plenty of planning and preparation will be required.

Moving home, and especially relocating to a new town or city, represents one of the biggest changes you may make in your life and so naturally brings a great deal of stress along with it. This in turn can lead to a double whammy, as stress can often lead to a lack of energy and motivation. So how are you expected to plan and prepare for your home move during one of the most stressful periods in your life?

Stay focused!

When preparing to move home there will be an element of multi-tasking required as there are such a lot of elements vying for your attention which need to be done. At Hamlet Homes Warrington we understand this and genuinely want your move to run super smoothly, so with this in mind, we have compiled a handy moving home checklist to help you remain stress free.

At first glance, some of our suggestions may appear to be common sense, but you will be surprised at just how often the simplest of tasks is overlooked or forgotten when the dreaded stress strikes!

Moving home calls not only for exceptional organisational skills, but also proactivity. Grabbing the bull by the horns and completing certain chores well in advance of their deadlines will go a long way to helping you stay ahead of schedule, so the aim of this home moving checklist is to help you accomplish that by concentrating on the basics of planning and preparation.

Get rid of everything you don’t need
One thing you can accomplish efficiently is to sort through all of your ‘stuff’ and get rid of the things you don’t need. Moving unwanted items from your current property to your new property is a great waste of time and effort, so don’t do it! It’s surprising how much more in control you will feel once you start narrowing down your inventory. Getting rid of unwanted items can be done through a car boot sale, selling on eBay or donating to charity.

File important papers and documents together
Since moving home is hectic to say the least, you need to be aware of the exact location of all your important items. These are the things that you absolutely must not misplace and should be hand carried on moving day, not placed in a box for the removal company to transport.

Make sure all of the following paper items are kept together in one secure place such as a document wallet:

• Address Books
• Birth Certificates
• Passports
• Bank Statements
• Insurance Policies
• Marriage Certificates
• Credit Cards and Statements
• Medical and Dental Records
• Irreplaceable Memorabilia
• Photos and Photo Albums
• Vehicle Documents
• Pet and Vet Documentation
• Wills
• Any other important or legal documents

Prepare well in advance for the move to your new location
There are many things you can organise before you reach your new home that will help smooth out the bumps of the moving process. In particular, make sure you contact utility companies and arrange for your new services to be connected. These can include:

• Cable TV
• Gas
• Electricity
• Water
• Oil
• Telephone
• Internet access

Contact your insurance companies too as you will need to have your policies amended ready for moving day:

• Car insurance
• Home & Building Insurance

Prepare change of address forms for all of your correspondents:

• Credit card companies
• Banks
• Vets
• Kennels/Cattery
• Insurance companies
• DVLA
• Magazines and other subscriptions
• Family and friends

Register for new medical providers such as a new doctor and dentist if necessary.

Keep a ‘little black book’
Keep all your important phone numbers written clearly and legibly in a diary or notebook, for both your old and new contacts. This should include banks, doctors, emergency contacts, family members, friends, estate agents, removal companies, pharmacies, schools, storage facilities and utilities.

With proper planning and preparation, the whole moving process will be smooth, and you won’t frantically be searching for a new doctor, pharmacy or important information at the eleventh hour.

With proper planning and preparation, you will have your important documents at the tips of your fingers at all times and you will endure minimum chaos and clutter.

Keep this handy moving checklist safe and get organised or for more home moving planning and preparation advice, drop in and talk to the expert team at Hamlet Homes Warrington or telephone us on 01925 235 338 and we will be happy to ensure your home move runs smoothly.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

Warrington Pensioner Homeowners are Now Worth £840.4M

How wealth is distributed will always be a contentious issue, especially as the Baby Boomers (those aged between their late 50’s and late 70’s) wealth has grown exponentially over the last 20 years, compared to the wealth of the younger generation.

With most UK property in the hands of the older generation, with its total value about to smash through the £8 trillion barrier (up from £3 trillion at the start of the Millennium), is it right that so much wealth is concentrated in the hands of the older generations?

As national house prices have continued to grow unabated (for example in the last eight years by 49.9%, whilst real take home pay has only increased by 11.8%), this has meant younger people are finding it even harder to get onto the property ladder and those already on it to move up it.

Looking at the older end of the age range for home ownership…

of the 70,510 homes in Warrington, 16,854 households are 65 years or older, and 76.9% of those households (12,967) are owned (mostly without a mortgage)

A full split as follows …

• Owned 76.9%
• Council House 17.7%
• Privately Rented 2.7%
• Living Rent Free 1.7%
• Shared Ownership 0.9%

I talk with many Warrington pensioners who want to move yet are unable to. There appears to be a shortage of suitable properties in Warrington for members of the older generation to downsize into. Due to their high demand and low supply, Warrington bungalows and suitable ground floor apartments achieve on average a 15% to 25% premium per square foot over two/three storey properties. Yet would it surprise you only 1% of new builds in the UK are single storey bungalows (compared to 7% 25 years ago)?

Warrington pensioner homeowners are now worth £4.46bn

YouGov did a survey a couple of years ago and they found that just over one third of homeowning pensioners in the UK were looking to downsize into a smaller property. As I have stated before, as a nation, we need to rethink how we can encourage older homeowners to sell their larger homes to release them to the younger families that desperately need them.

The Government over the last 11 years have appeared to target all their attention on first-time buyers with a strategy such as the Help to Buy Scheme. However, this doesn’t address the long-established under-supply of appropriate retirement housing vital to the needs of Warrington’s quickly ageing population. Unfortunately, Warrington’s housing stock is sadly ill-equipped for this demographic shift to the ageing homeowners.

Also, to add insult to injury, those more mature Warrington pensioners in their 80’s and 90’s who do live in the restricted number of Warrington bungalows and suitable ground floor apartments are finding it difficult to live on their own, as they are unable to leave their bungalow/apartment because of a shortage of sheltered housing and ‘inexpensive’ care home places.

This in turn means the younger 60 to 70 year old Warrington retirees (in their bigger two/three storey family houses) can't buy those Warrington bungalows (occupied by the older retirees), which means those Warrington families in their 30’s and 40’s can't buy those larger family houses (occupied by the younger 60 to 70 year old retirees) they need for their growing families ... it’s like everyone is waiting for everyone because of the logjam at the top of the property ladder.

So, what is the solution? Quite simple – build more homes! 

In the last 30 years, the UK population has grown by around 12 million people, yet the number of properties has only grown by around 4.2 million

With obstructive planning regulations, immigration, people living longer and increased divorce rates (meaning one family becomes two) we have needed 275,000 properties to be built a year since the Millennium to just stand still and meet demand. Twenty years ago, the UK was building on average 185,000 households a year, that figure dropped in the five years after the Global Financial Crisis in 2008 to 140,000 households a year. Thankfully that has increased steadily over the last five years and last year we created 245,000 households in the UK, however, we still have all those years since the Millennium to make up for.

The answer is to build on more land for starter homes, bungalows and sheltered accommodation, because land prices are holding back the property market as the larger national building firms are more inclined to focus on traditional two and three storey houses and apartments than bungalows (because they make more money from them). You might say there is no land to build the property on, yet…

only 1.2% of the UK is built on with residential properties

So how could Warrington people make money on this news? Shrewd Warrington property investors should consider purchasing bungalows, especially ones that need some titivating (possibly after somebody has passed away). Bungalows purchased at the right price and location are a great gamble for flipping. They should also be considered for renting out as demand will only outstrip supply. This would be a start to the solution of rebalancing the Warrington property market so everyone is happier with their lot.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page

COVID -19: An Update for Warrington Buyers and Sellers From Hamlet Homes Warrington

We are delighted that Hamlet Homes Warrington are able to remain open for market appraisals and viewings, however, we realise that we also have a social responsibility beyond that of being your local estate agent and recognise that as a buyer or seller, you will have concerns given the current situation with COVID-19.

We want to reassure you that the team at Hamlet Homes Warrington will be following the Government’s health and safety guidelines thoroughly and ultimately will always ensure the wellbeing of our clients, our team, and our community comes first.

At the time of writing, it has been announced that restrictions around property viewings and transactions remain as per guidance given earlier this year. However, COVID-19 has not gone away and as yet there is no vaccine, so we will be carrying out our business in an extremely safe and highly-managed way to ensure our clients and staff are protected at all times.

Viewings
We are regularly reviewing updates on viewing guidelines from the Housing Minister, and will always ensure these guidelines are followed to the letter. Currently we will be adhering to the following:

Social distancing (2 metres) will be observed at all times. Our staff may remain outside the property whilst the viewing takes place.

If you would prefer to view a property virtually – we do offer this option.

Viewing Limits: All viewings will be limited to either one viewing per property per day OR viewings will be scheduled apart, for example, with a delay between each viewing.

Time Limits: The time viewers spend inside a property will be limited to an absolute maximum of 30 minutes.

Viewing Numbers: We will allow a maximum of two people inside a property along with the owner or member of our team.

Contactless Viewings: Vendors will be asked to leave cupboards and doors open so that viewers to the property do not need to touch them. Viewers will be asked not to touch surfaces unnecessarily.

PPE: Our team members will wear gloves and masks while conducting viewings. PPE will be available for viewers if they do not bring their own.

Health Declaration: Vendors and viewers will be required to sign a declaration, stating that they do not have any COVID-19 symptoms.

Market Appraisals
There are no specific valuation guidelines but we are undertaking similar precautions to our viewings procedure.

Further information
As soon as we receive updates, we will provide further information.

Guidance for Sellers
If your property is already on the market or is shortly coming to market, please reassure potential buyers by making sure your home is clean and safe to view. 

Still deciding whether now is the right time to buy or sell?
The team at Hamlet Homes Warrington will be delighted to talk you through your options. We appreciate your circumstances may have changed or might be difficult right now, but we can help you talk it through in confidence.

We want to help you make an informed decision, so please call us for an informal chat on 01925 235 338 or email us at manoj@hamletwarrington.co.uk.

Above all, please continue to stay safe.

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.

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7 Tips For a Smooth House Move in Warrington

 

You have secured your new dream house in Warrington, and the only thing remaining is to wait for moving day! It’s a thrilling time for anyone, single, couple, or family, and it’s easy to let the excitement get the better of you. In most cases, you will have a mountain of belongings to move from one property to another, so by planning in advance, you can make that move as smooth, efficient, and stress-free as possible.

1. Declutter in advance

It’s always best to start packing well in advance. In fact, it’s ideal if you can start packing up when you begin your new house hunt. This way, you can forget about the stress later on and instead begin to declutter and pack at the same time.

Sell any items of value that you don’t require to make a small profit and to offset some of the high costs of moving. Donate items to charity that aren’t worth selling but are still in good condition, and then recycle or bin the rest. This applies to everything, from clothes to knick-knacks. Streamline what you will bring to your new home.

2. Create a packing plan

Create a packing plan by going through what you need to have available until the day of the move. Once you have that list, you can then work out how you intend to pack up your belongings. This can be by theme, by room, or by both.

For example, you might have general bathroom boxes, bedroom boxes and kitchen boxes or you might instead pack by object type, for example packing away all your towels and tea-towels in one box and bathroom toiletries, hand soaps and so on in another. When packing, you should try and keep boxes at a manageable weight and ensure that items won’t break through the box, so don’t pile them too high! The last thing you want is for your valuables to become damaged in the moving process.

3. Label each box as you go

When packing up items in boxes, it’s very important that you label each box with its contents. This way, you won’t have to open every box right away and have your new home filled with items that don’t yet have a place to go. If you created a strategic enough packing plan, you should be able to unpack a few boxes and have everything you need to be comfortable whilst you unpack your belongings.

4. Disassemble furniture

Not every piece of furniture can easily be taken apart, but the chances are you will have at least one or two items such as beds or wardrobes. Disassembling these items can make moving your furniture and belongings so much easier. You might also want to invest in movers blankets so that your furniture doesn’t get dented when it is disassembled.

5. Have your children help you pack

If you have kids, it can be difficult to move to a new home, especially if they are worried about the change. You can improve this situation by asking them to help you pack. Have them declutter their own rooms and become involved and give them tasks disguised as games to help make the move fun.

6. Hire professional movers

Once everything is boxed up and labelled, you are going to want to hire professional movers. This takes out the heavy lifting, saves your back, and means your furniture is in good hands as it is packed up and moved into your new property. This is particularly important for furniture you couldn’t disassemble into small pieces.

7. Bring “First Night Boxes” with you

The last thing that you should pack are your “First Night Boxes”. These boxes should have clothes for a few days, towels, toiletries, bed linen, blankets, kitchen tools and utensils, such as a kettle, mugs, tea and coffee. Essentially anything you will need for the first few nights in your new home. Bring them with you in your own vehicle so that you can easily find them once all your other items are safely within your new home in Warrington.

A smooth house move is one that is done well in advance. The last thing you want is to be scurrying about trying to pack everything away in a rush because your moving date is nearing, and you need to be out of the property in just a few days.

Decluttering for viewings is the perfect time to start packing and giving yourself that time means you can easily find items once you are in your new home, guaranteeing a stress-free move.

For expert advice and a smooth move in Warrington, contact the team at Hamlet Homes Warrington on 01925 235 338 today.

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
Follow my Warrington Property Market Blog
Hamlet Homes Warrington LinkedIn Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Facebook Page
Hamlet Homes Estate Agents Warrington Twitter Page