Stamp duty will stimulate the market The increase in stamp duty by 2% from 0% of the portion priced between £125,001 and £250,000, starting on April 1, 2025, may not be the biggest rise. Despite the small increase, the market is already gaining momentum as homeowners strive to beat the deadline. This is adding an extra boost to the market. Read our blog to understand the upcoming changes.
A first-time buyer flurry With the 0% stamp duty threshold for first-time buyers dropping from £425,000 to £300,000, this sector of the market will also experience a strong first quarter before the discount ends on 31 March. The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, which has a deadline of June 2025, will also be an incentive to move now. Having already been extended on multiple occasions, first-time buyers are stepping onto the ladder, and the ripple effect for second steppers benefits the entire market.
Better interest rates are anticipated Mortgage rates are widely expected to fall as the year progresses, although homeowners are no longer holding out for the super low levels of past years. This has already added another layer of confidence to the market, and the signs are promising that this will continue as the year unfolds.
You will have a greater choice of homes With increased construction and market activity, buyers will enjoy a broader range of options in 2025. From contemporary city apartments to spacious family homes in suburban areas, there will be an exciting choice of homes. Renovations and upgrades to existing properties will also play a significant role, providing energy-efficient homes that are ready for modern living with real style and character.
A better lettings market The Renters’ Rights Bill expected to become law this year is another dynamic to add to the mix. However, the Conservatives were unable to implement their version, claiming that the court system would require reform. Will Labour encounter the same obstacle? If not, it could benefit landlords by providing clear guidelines, reducing disputes, and ensuring reliable rental income. For tenants, it ensures fairer treatment and protection from unjust evictions, as well as greater rights and transparency.
Buyers and sellers’ market In 2025, we anticipate a balanced market where both buyers and sellers will have opportunities to thrive. Sellers will benefit from motivated buyers eager to secure their dream homes, while buyers will enjoy fair pricing and a competitive range of choices. Property prices have steadily grown over the years but not skyrocketed. These appealing market conditions make moving easier.
Vintage furniture Vintage furniture has never really gone out of fashion. However, this well-made furniture is regaining its prominence, taking the place of less characterful, more modern pieces. Seamlessly blending the old with the new and adding personality and style, it has the power to transform rooms.
Wood Wood is resurfacing in all its magnificent forms. Whether you prefer the natural aesthetic of a wooden kitchen or prefer weathered furniture, the choice is entirely yours. Classic or modern, freestanding or unfitted, it’s entirely down to your own personal tastes.
Earthy tones Deep earthy tones, such as sunbaked reds and deep greens, create a warm, comforting, homely feeling and a sense of calm in equal measure. Contrasted with vibrant hues such as bright yellows and other sun-drenched themes, individual rooms and spaces will create a truly special feeling.
Rustic sustainability Sustainability continues to shape interior design, but in 2025, it takes on a rustic charm. Think reclaimed wood beams, repurposed furniture, and natural stone accents seamlessly blending with modern functionality.
Wall art Not a theme to embrace for all areas of your home, but for some walls, the trend of gallery walls further adorned with wall lamps or mirrors is increasing in popularity. Choose a theme that tells a story set against the intriguing choice of autumn-inspired hues, and you will create a striking impact.
Biophilic beauty The connection between humans and nature remains a core theme in 2025, with biophilic design thriving more than ever. Larger windows, indoor gardens, and abundant greenery intentionally create spaces that invite the outdoors in. Natural light takes centre stage, while organic materials, like stone, dominate interiors.
Expressive colours In 2025, we will see renewed confidence in bold, expressive colours. Jewel tones like sapphire blues, emerald greens, and rich purples are paired with vibrant accents of electric orange, zesty yellows, and fuchsia.
Cosy nooks In the fast-paced world we find ourselves in, creating intimate spaces for relaxation is a must. Cosy nooks, complete with plush seating, soft textiles, and layered lighting, are becoming essential features in modern homes. Window seats with oversized cushions, alcoves transformed into reading retreats, remain in vogue.
Make sure your property is well-presented If your property is clean, in good order, and presentable, then it will attract good tenants. Decorating it with neutral colours, installing good appliances, or doing anything that improves the energy efficiency of the property could lead to higher rents.
Check your property is compliant Electrical inspections, gas safety certificates, and energy performance certificates (EPC) all help prove that your property is compliant. This is a crucial step in helping to prevent you from being liable for any accidents or potential prosecution. Utilising the support of a Member of The Guild in the management of your property will ensure you have the guidance of a fully-compliant professional.
Explore the full potential of your property Whether it's enhancing the bathroom or kitchen or creating outdoor spaces, it's important to fully explore the potential of your property. Good outdoor spaces are in high demand, especially those that can be used all year round.
Market your property well The key to success in marketing is having excellent photographs, videos or virtual tours, along with an accompanying strategy that connects your property with excellent tenants. Your chosen estate agent will possess a comprehensively vetted database of potential tenants.
Carry out background checks It is in your interest as a landlord and a legal requirement to conduct background checks that are compliant and not discriminatory. You want to place reliable tenants in your property but do so in a way that is fully amenable. Credit checks are a useful way of gaining access to a tenant’s previous history when it comes to paying debts. Anything you can do to get an insight into how reliable a tenant is also an opportunity for the tenant to prove their suitability.
Set the right price Letting a property involves managing costs, much like any other business. You want to achieve satisfactory levels of rent. You don’t want to set a price that falls short of that potential, nor do you want to overcharge and risk creating void periods.
Know your market Knowing your market helps you target the right tenants. Once you know who you are targeting, you can prepare your property appropriately. Your local Guild Member will pride themselves of having a thorough understanding of the local property market and the demographic of potential suitable tenants.
Slow down the flow Many people will overlook the issue of traffic flowing through the front door until it’s too late, and coats and shoes are all over the place. Decide early on where guests will put their coats as they walk in and try to make as much room as possible for scarves, gloves, hats and bags. If you have a cupboard under the stairs, give it a good clean-up and leave some extra space for umbrellas and wellies.
Have a big clear-out Before the kids get their new toys, your wardrobe gets updated and your bookshelves fill up with the latest bestsellers, make sure to have a clear-out. Now is the perfect time to donate items and free up some space in your rooms. If you have any newer items sitting around that you don’t have use for, consider selling them and using the money for additional Christmas presents.
Lighting choices For relaxing indoors, warm, low lighting is perfect. Harsh lighting can be headache-inducing and that’s the last thing your guests will want after their Christmas dinner. Instead, you can create a cosy ambience using candles, fairy lights and the warm glow of the fireplace.
Clear away the clutter You will need floor space for opening presents, games of charades, and gathering around the TV; so it’s a good idea to move some furniture around on a temporary basis and remove any clutter taking up the room.
Dress for the season Dress your dining table to the nines with festive placemats and decorative table runner to create a central focus point. You could even add name cards for each guest and decide on a seating plan beforehand for a welcoming and personal touch.
Prepare the guest bathroom Your guest bathroom will see a lot more traffic than its used to, so make sure it’s ready for all your guests. Start with a deep clean, focusing on fresh clean smells and shiny surfaces. Then you can move on to the final touches like stocking up the toilet roll, hanging a fresh guest towel and refilling the soap dispenser.
Creating a welcoming environment If someone is spending Christmas with you, they most likely already feel very welcome in your home. Enhance that warm feeling by making sure the heating is on, blankets are ready and candles are filling the room with sweet smells. Be sure to keep the food and drinks coming, the festive tunes playing and you can’t go far wrong.
Start early A huge factor in making sure your home is ready for Christmas, is simply preparing it for winter. Check that the door and window seals are in good working order, cracks in the walls are filled in and consider investing in some draft excluders. Litter blankets and cushions on every sofa, and make sure your fireplace is clean and working so everything is ready for your guests to gather around the TV after Christmas dinner.
Calculate your budget Before you start searching for your perfect property, it is important to calculate your budget so you know what price range you should be looking at. To calculate an accurate and realistic estimate, you should consider your income, savings, and monthly expenses. It's a good idea to let a mortgage adviser help you with this, as they will give you an estimate of what you can afford based on your situation.
Get a pre-approved mortgage Mortgage pre-approval is a process that involves a lender conducting a thorough assessment of an individual’s financial history to establish the maximum loan amount they can receive. Several things are checked in mortgage pre-approval, such as your credit score, bank statements, and payslips. As well as creating additional mortgage options that are personalised to you, having a pre-approved mortgage will make you stand out as a serious buyer, which can give you an advantage when searching and making offers for properties.
Use an experienced estate agent When buying a home, using the services provided by an experienced estate agent is paramount. The knowledge and expertise they possess contribute to a successful, stress-free process and help you make informed decisions. They are equipped with a large network of connections, which allows them to access a greater selection of homes that meet your needs and desires. Furthermore, estate agents manage the intricate web of legal and financial factors involved in buying a home, providing vital information and support throughout the process. It is important that you seek their assistance when preparing to make an offer for a property, as they can suggest a sensible amount to put on the table.
Find your ideal home When looking for your perfect home, there are several things you need to consider, one of which is the location of the property and its access to important amenities such as schools, hospitals, and transportation links. Aside from the practicalities of a location, you should also ensure that you enjoy the overall feel of the neighbourhood so that you are confident that you will enjoy living there. You should also consider what type of property you need based on your situation. For example, if you have a growing family, you might want to search for a house with multiple bedrooms and a spacious garden.
Inspect the property Once you have found a property that you are interested in buying, you should make sure to give it a thorough inspection. This is crucial as it could reveal issues that you did not previously spot when you viewed the property. It could be a good idea to hire a surveyor, as they will check for any issues with the property and detail their findings to you so that you are fully aware of the condition of the home you are looking to buy.
Read the contract Thoroughly reviewing the entire contract is essential when buying a property to ensure a smooth and legally sound exchange. Professionally examining the contract will help you find any hidden clauses that could otherwise be overlooked, meaning there will be fewer unpleasant shocks or disagreements in the future. There is nothing in the contract that is unimportant, so you mustn't skip any parts or ignore anything you do not understand. If you find something in the contract that you are unhappy with, it is best to get in touch with your estate agent as they will suggest the best course of action.
Buy a faux Christmas tree While a real Christmas tree can be a fabulous addition to the home at Christmastime, there are many impracticalities to them when you are looking to sell your home. When it comes to having a tree to decorate while you are in the midst of a move, faux is best, and there are very convincing faux alternatives available. Real trees drop needles on to your carpets leaving you with more cleaning up to do before a house viewing – there are many solutions that claim to stop trees from shedding however it will inevitably and avoidably still cause some mess. You may wish to clear away your tree entirely when conducting viewings. This is when a fake tree is at its most functional because it can be easily folded up and packed away at relatively short notice. Remember, many potential buyers are looking for space as a priority in their new homes, and a tree, fake or real, can make a room feel small and overcrowded.
Use Christmas lights to illuminate as well as decorate Christmas lights offer lots of opportunity when it comes to home viewings. Try draping lights in garlands across fireplaces and stairway bannisters to attract buyers' attention to focal points in your home. As always, you should consider the planet and how much electricity is being used to power your Christmas lights, while LED Christmas lights will cost you more money upfront, they use 75% less energy than incandescent lights – a huge plus for the energy efficiency for your wallet and the planet. Go for a warm yellow/orange light rather than a cool white light, this will create a cosy atmosphere in your home and make a buyer feel welcomed. Steer clear of external Christmas decorations, a buyer will want to be able to imagine the home for all seasons when they arrive.
Use all of the senses It isn’t just the sights in a home that will sell the lifestyle to a potential buyer, but also the sounds and smells. What better way to paint the perfect Christmas picture than with a crackling fire? If you have an open fire, make sure the grate and chimney are clean and clear to create the most memorable sounds and smells for your viewings through winter. Switch up your home fragrances to complement the time of year – essence of gingerbread and cinnamon are most synonymous with the Christmas period. Candles are the best way to emit these smells throughout the home and can even be authentically produced by hand to add a personal touch.
Keep it neutral A neutral colour scheme is the number one tip from any property staging expert. Hues of red or green, with gold or silver, are the safest bets to chose from when it comes to selecting decorations for your Christmas tree and the room around it. A warm and rich shade of red will instantly bring a touch of festive cheer into your home within moments. You can try mixing and matching a matte or glossy finish to give a single-shade scheme another dimension – this second dimension will be brought to life by the illuminations from a roaring fire. Choosing a gold scheme for your Christmas tree decorations will create a sense of opulence and tastefulness and will sit especially well in an otherwise neutral interior, introducing festive colour without overpowering the space.
Christmas has arrived in style at Property People North Belfast! Our team has been busy transforming our office into a festive spectacle, and we're excited to share the holiday spirit with the community.
This year, our window display is a captivating scene straight out of Santa's workshop. A jolly Santa Claus takes centre stage in his bright red sleigh, overflowing with gifts and goodies. Twinkling lights illuminate the scene, casting a warm glow on the beautifully decorated Christmas tree and whimsical decorations. The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by the intricate snowflakes and cheerful elves adding a touch of magic to the display.
We invite you to stop by our office at 223 Antrim Road, Belfast BT15 2GY and experience the festive atmosphere for yourself. Our friendly team is always happy to chat about your property needs, whether you're looking to buy, sell, or rent in North Belfast. We'll even offer you a mince pie and a warm beverage to complete the festive experience!
From all of us at Property People North Belfast, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
The festive spirit is shining bright at Property People South Belfast! Our team has created a stunning Christmas display that's sure to capture the hearts of passersby.
This year, we've gone all out with a glamorous and festive theme. Our office is decked out in sparkling lights, shimmering ornaments, and a touch of gold. We've even created a cosy Christmas corner with a fireplace and comfy armchairs, perfect for relaxing with a cup of hot cocoa.
We encourage you to visit our office at 122 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 6AH and admire the festive decorations. Our team is ready to assist you with all your property needs in South Belfast, whether you're searching for your dream home or looking to sell your property.
We wish you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
What is a period property? Simply put, a period property is one that belongs to a certain period in history. Some may also be listed, which means they are of cultural significance. There are many different types of period properties, such as Elizabethan properties from 1558-1603, Georgian properties from 1714-1837, Victorian properties from 1837-1901, and Edwardian properties from 1901-1910.
How energy-efficient is the property? You probably do not associate period homes with energy efficiency. However, avoid making hasty assumptions. Many period properties have undergone extensive restorations, decoration, and improved things like insulation along the way. You could upgrade the boiler and install energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen. For homes that require such improvements, the process is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right expertise, one can make sash windows draft-free.
What are the features of a period property? Much depends upon which period the property you are viewing belongs. Perhaps you love the ostentatious style of Elizabethan architecture, the symmetry of the Georgian period, or the variety of influences that come with a Victorian property. You may fall in love with a period property for features such as ornate fireplaces, wall panelling, moulded coving, or the sheer beauty, character, and space it provides.
Are there any issues that need attention in the property? There are a few things you would do well to look out for when viewing a property. It’s not uncommon to find damp in period properties. Most pre-1919 homes were built without a damp course. However, other potential causes include weathered pointing and poor ventilation. It's also important to inquire about the state of the electric and plumbing systems. The property in question might have undergone recent rewiring and new plumbing.
Is the property in good condition? Period properties require a little more attention than more modern properties when it comes to restoration. They may require special techniques, and telltale signs will be there if any previous restoration work has been carried out incorrectly. Therefore, don't hesitate to investigate previous restoration work. You may be interested in enlisting the help of an expert or a surveyor.
Do period properties command a higher price? As with other properties, its value depends on many variables. However, period properties are sought after, and their characteristic features and unique traits are captivating. Many have been expertly renovated respectfully and tastefully, and those that have can command higher prices. Thanks to a rich tapestry of architectural history, the UK property scene can provide you with a simply magical home that lasts far into the future. All you have to do is let it find you.
Amp up the cosiness While it’s cold outside, give your guests a warm welcome into your home. Show off any features that make your home feel cosy, get the fireplace going, cook some baked treats for an enticing smell, and lay down all your fluffy rugs and blankets. As guests huddle through your front door in their coats and scarves, your home should feel like a warm embrace from the cold.
Keep flooring and carpets fresh Winter footfall can do a number on your carpets and floors, so make sure to keep on top of things in between viewings. Focus on the hallway where people tend to tread mud in - you could even lay down a cheap rug between viewings to help with the upkeep while the outdoors are especially messy.
Utilise artificial lighting We lose daylight hours during the colder months, so it’s important to keep your home warm and bright if you want it to stand out. Make sure both the inside and outside of your home are well-lit and that all lights and fixtures are in good working order. If there are any dimly lit corners or walkways, consider adding a standing lamp or fairy lights to enhance the space.
Organise the garden and garage Your garden does not need to be in full bloom and manicured to perfection right now, but buyers will be on the lookout for good maintenance. Tidy and organise your garage, sweep up any leaves and cut back overgrown branches to freshen things up in time for viewings. Focus on kerb appeal The outside of your home still matters to potential buyers, even when the sun isn’t shining on it. Enhancing your kerb appeal is a good opportunity to show buyers that your home can withstand harsh weather and look great year-round. Get all the basics right, clean your windows and front door, keep rubbish bins tidy and out of sight, and consider adding a simple pop of colour with a hanging basket or a fresh coat of paint on your door.
Make your rooms look bigger While bundling up in a cosy corner is comforting, tight and cluttered spaces can have the opposite effect. Staging is the key ingredient to making your home feel more spacious. Move furniture away from the walls to create the illusion of space, strip back any personal items such as holiday souvenirs, and utilise hidden storage solutions to clear up some floor space. This will make your home feel like a winter retreat.
The secret is in the planning Make sure you get organised early. If your house is on the market, the chances are you will have to move out within the next 30 days of the sale. Create a list of everything you have to do to complete your move successfully. You can start packing things you don’t use regularly, such as out-of-season clothes and decorative items, like photographs.
De-clutter before your move Moving house is the perfect opportunity to de-clutter. There’s no point in lugging junk to your new house. Be ruthless and get rid of everything you haven’t used in the past year - you can sell your unwanted items online, organise a garage sale or donate them to your favourite charity.
Pack a first-night survival kit
Prepare a bag filled with the main necessities, such as your basic hygiene supplies, change of clothes and snacks, to help get you through the first couple days. Looking for your toothbrush and a pair of pyjamas is the last thing you will want to be doing on the first night in your new home.
Choose the right type of transport If you’re moving a long distance, it’s likely that you won’t have the luxury of making more than one trip. Therefore, it is important that you secure the right size of truck to safely carry all of your belongings in one go. Speak to your moving company - they should be able to advise what size you of truck you will need based on the size of your current house.
Pack smartly Always make sure you label your boxes correctly and fill them in a logical order. Although it might take a bit longer, you’ll be thankful for this when arriving at your new house. You don’t want to be searching for the kettle and mugs amongst a pile of boxes filled with anything from photo frames to bathroom mats and towels. It’s also a good idea to keep an inventory of all your household items in case something goes missing.
Speak to your utility and insurance suppliers Check with your insurer to confirm you’re covered before your move and let them know you’re relocating. Don’t forget to redirect all your mail to your new address and get in touch with utility suppliers so you have running water, electricity and gas at your new place. Also, arrange to have your phone line, cable and internet working if necessary.
Get help If you can’t afford to hire a moving company to help you relocate and unpack, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your friends and family. Whether hired movers or friends and family, make sure you have food and drinks readily available for everyone. They will appreciate a cold drink and a bite to eat during their busy day of heavy lifting and unpacking boxes.
Pack your children’s items last Moving can be difficult for the little ones so make sure they have their favourite toys or a comfort blanket on hand. They might not understand what is happening and be wary of their new environment, so it’s really important they are surrounded with familiar items, especially the ones they have created an emotional attachment to. Likewise, if you have any pets, try to make them comfortable throughout the move to help them feel settled.
Meet your neighbours It’s a good idea to make conversation and build good relationships with your future neighbours from the beginning – let them know you will be moving in and what time the movers will arrive. If you’re moving into a block of flats, don’t forget to ask about any moving policy so you can prepare your schedule for the day. Ensure that you will have sufficient space to park outside your new home and that you don’t block your neighbours’ driveway.
Plan for the unexpected and stay positive No matter how much organising you have done prior to your move, you might still come across some unforeseen circumstances. Things you didn’t expect will always come up and it’s important to stay positive. Moving house is one of the most stressful things to do – remind yourself of all the reasons why you decided to move and celebrate with a nice family dinner. You will soon forget about the struggles when enjoying a cuppa in your beautiful new home.
Maximum exposure Exposing raw materials is a hot interior design trend that’s here to stay. Leaving brickwork, wooden beams and wooden floorboards untouched gives the impression your property is full of original features and charm. If your property isn’t graced with these rustic features, then incorporating plush materials in your furnishings will attract the right kind of attention. A leather chair, an oak dresser or a wool rug each bring an expensive feel to a property.
Symmetry Arranging your furniture symmetrically works very well for creating an elegant, classic look that’s pleasing on the eye. In the living room, you could position two sofas facing each other with a coffee table in between for a classic style. In bedrooms, place the bed in the centre of the wall with matching bedside tables either side. In kitchens, this is much more difficult to do, but you can work with how you dress the dining table with symmetrically arranged candles and vases.
Make it monochrome This fashion statement is equally as stylish in properties and a very easy look to achieve. Simply pare down the decoration in a room to just black and white and then add a few soft furnishings of one bright colour at various points to open up the space.
Let there be light Interesting lighting instantly brings a modern touch to any home. Fitting lights above cabinets will create an unexpected glow, while lights within skirting boards have a particularly luxurious feel. For a quick fix, try replacing your existing lampshades with a modern alternative.
Floating furniture Free-standing furniture is a key trend at the moment and incorporating a few pieces in your home will help to give it the wow-factor. While free-standing islands in the kitchen and wood-burning stoves in the living room are particularly striking, they can be expensive, especially when you’re looking to move home. To avoid spending too much, consider investing in a free-standing cabinet or mirror that you can take with you. These handy pieces of furniture will look good in any home and are useful for making rooms feel larger, too.
Enhancing vistas If your property benefits from a gorgeous view, make the most of it by drawing the eye towards windows. Dressing windowsills with candles, scent diffusers or a vase of flowers will catch the eye and encourage people to take a look at what’s beyond.
Kerb appeal It’s also worth paying attention to the front of your house to give it kerb appeal. We like to feel proud of our homes and part of this is down to what is looks like from the outside. Give the exterior of your house the wow-factor by painting your door in a bold colour, placing two box plants either side of the door and buying a new door knocker and house numbers. It’s a good idea to choose items that catch your eye while your shopping as these are the ones that will also catch the attention of your buyers.
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