• 2026 interior design trends
    Posted on 31 January 2026

    2026 interior design trends



    Curated collections as a form of self-expression

    Curated collections of art, photography and meaningful objects are emerging as a way for homeowners to incorporate history and narrative into their spaces. Perfectly staged walls and surfaces are being quietly replaced by personal and thoughtfully displayed collections, allowing interiors to feel intentionally lived-in, layered and distinct.

    Spaces focused on wellbeing

    Wellness-focused design is set to become a defining theme in 2026, with interiors becoming shaped around how spaces can be adapted to support daily routines and wellbeing. Bedrooms are being reimagined as restful sanctuaries, with  textured  headboards, breathable bedding and considered layouts designed to prioritise quality sleep.  
    Home offices continue to evolve for long-term working from home, with improved air flow, natural light and ergonomic furniture supporting both productivity and mental wellbeing, while bathrooms adopt a more spa-like feel through deep soaking tubs, natural stone finishes and softly layered lighting.

    A return to natural materials

    Stone, timber and tactile finishes are being used to create homes that feel grounded and authentic rather than overtly decorative, with exposed brick particularly popular. Warm woods such as oak and walnut are adding depth to kitchens and reception spaces, while natural fabrics like linen and wool introduce softness and longevity throughout the home.

    Vintage furniture

    Homeowners are leaning away from modernism in favour of one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that introduce character and exclusivity into the home. Furniture rich in age and texture is set to play a leading role throughout 2026, with sensory materials such as velvet upholstery and aged wood finishes bringing warmth and visual interest to living spaces. Pieces drawn from different eras, from Murano glass lighting to handcrafted wooden storage sets, bring a level of craftsmanship and detail that instantly elevates a space, resulting in interiors that feel rich, distinctive and impossible to replicate.

    Earthy tones

    Interiors are embracing a softer, more grounded colour palette, creating a refined and sophisticated backdrop that allows statement pieces to stand out. Shades such as khaki, soft browns, clay hues and muted olive are being introduced through accent walls and joinery, adding depth without competing with bolder design elements.  
  • 2025 in Review: A Year of Growth, Community, and Excellence
    Posted on 10 January 2026

    2025 in Review: A Year of Growth, Community, and Excellence




    Here is a look back at our favourite moments from the past 12 months.

    Major Milestones & Expansion


    This year saw significant growth for the Property People footprint. We were absolutely delighted to announce the opening of our brand-new branch on Andersonstown Road, bringing our services right into the heart of West Belfast.

    We also celebrated a massive internal milestone. We are incredibly proud to welcome Allison as our new Associate Director. Allison has been an extremely dedicated member of the Property People family for 13 years, and her promotion is a testament to her hard work and expertise. The entire senior management team wishes her continued success in this new leadership role.

    Raising Standards & Industry Excellence


    At Property People, we never stop learning. 2025 was a year of intense professional development to ensure we offer our clients the very best service.

    • Guild Certification: A huge congratulations to our team members who received their Associate Member certificates from The Guild of Property Professionals.
    • Cutting-Edge Tech: Our entire team successfully completed intensive MRI Software training, streamlining our operations for landlords and tenants.
    • Industry Leadership: We enjoyed attending the Guild Regional Conference to enhance our marketing services. Furthermore, Ciara and Allison were inspired by local leaders like Judith Gillespie and Leo Varadkar at the #MLNSummit, and we were honoured to speak at Danske Bank’s 'Make Your Move' home buyer event.
    At the Heart of the Community


    We believe in supporting the communities where we live and work. One of our proudest moments this year was presenting a cheque for £710 to Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke, a fantastic cause close to many hearts.

    We were also thrilled to support the Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain 25th Anniversary Family Fun Day and cheered on everyone who took part in the Clogher Valley 5k.

    Growing the Family & Celebrating Success

    Our team is our greatest asset, and this year, it got even bigger! We were delighted to welcome JP and Jonathan to the team—they have already hit the ground running.

    We also made sure to celebrate the personal wins, including:
    • Jenny Doran-Raffo’s 1st-year work anniversary.
    • Birthday celebrations for Nicole and Sarah-Jane (who was spoiled with gifts in our North Belfast branch!).
    • Fun days in the office, from National Chocolate Cake Day to UK National Ice Cream Day (essential fuel for estate agents!).
    • And, of course, the consistent praise rolling in for Sarah Jane McMullen and the North Belfast team from our happy clients.
    Looking Ahead to 2026

    Finally, we want to say a massive THANK YOU to you—our customers. Thank you to the sellers, buyers, landlords, and tenants who have trusted us with your homes and investments this year.

    We look forward to another successful year in business and wish everyone a prosperous, healthy, and happy 2026!

    Experience excellence with us in the New Year.
  • Regional Property Market Update Winter 2025: Northern Ireland
    Posted on 27 December 2025

    Regional Property Market Update Winter 2025: Northern Ireland




    Inflation and interest rates

    The Bank of England held interest rates at 4% in November, reflecting a cautious approach as inflation remains above target. Inflation came in marginally softer than expected, rising by 3.8% in the year to September. Forecast suggest inflation will be a little lower by year end (3.6%) and more measurable improvement next year (2.4% by end 2026)¹.  While inflation remains elevated, some analysts still see a small chance of a Bank Rate reduction in December, though most economists now anticipate the next cuts to be in 2026, with two further 0.25 percentage point reductions across the year². Any extra improvement will be extra relief to borrowers.


    Mortgage rates edge higher after a period of stability
    Mortgage rates remained steady following the Bank of England’s decision to hold interest rates in September but have since edged up very slightly. The recent decline in fixed mortgage rates came to an end at the start of autumn, with the average two-year fixed rate (75% LTV) rising from 4.1% in August to 4.2% in September, with a parallel increase in the five-year rate (4.1% to 4.2%) over the same period³. However, product choice remains broad: the number of mortgage deals dipped slightly below 7,000 in October, down from a 17-year high in September but well above the 5,495 available two years ago.

    Resilient mortgage approvals
    Mortgage approvals, an indicator of longer-term housing demand, have remained resilient despite wider political and economic uncertainty, helping to offset signs of caution elsewhere in the lead-up to the November Budget. In September, there were 65,944 mortgage approvals, just above the median forecast of 64,000 in a Reuters poll of economists. This figure is the highest since December 2024 and slightly above the long-term monthly average rate since 2012³. We are yet to see how the Budget will affect consumer confidence in the coming months, although greater certainty is typically positive for the housing market.

    ¹ HM Treasury, Average of Independent Forecasts, October 2025, ²Reuters, ³Bank of England

    Mixed activity

    Transactions edged higher in September¹, however more real-time indicators such as sales agreed show a mixed regional picture, with activity strengthening across parts of Scotland, northern England, and the Midlands, while conditions remain more subdued further south². The number of property sales falling through also edged higher in Q3 2025, up 0.5% year-on-year, reflecting ongoing challenges around financing, delayed chains, and shifting buyer sentiment³. The latest RICS survey reported a decline in near-term sales expectations, signalling some caution in the coming months⁴. However, activity levels are expected to pick up post-Budget as clarity over tax changes was gained, which proved less severe than many had feared.

    Across Northern Ireland, the most active housing markets are currently those of Ards and North Down, Lisburn and Castlereagh and Belfast, where close to one in every 23 properties has changed hands in the past year.

    Sources: ¹ HMRC, ² Zoopla, ³ TwentyEA, ⁴ RICS
  • Behind the Sign – Property People's New Podcast for Landlords and Investors
    Posted on 16 September 2025

    Behind the Sign – Property People's New Podcast for Landlords and Investors




    This podcast is designed to be your go-to source for practical, no-nonsense insights into the world of property. Each episode features straight-talking conversations about the issues that really matter in today’s market. Whether you’re managing a single buy-to-let or building a growing portfolio, Behind the Sign will give you the tools and knowledge to stay ahead.

    What to Expect from Behind the Sign
    Boosting rental yields – Hear expert strategies on maximising the return on your investments.
    Staying compliant in 2025 – Get the latest updates on regulation and compliance so you can protect your properties and tenants.
    Understanding market shifts – Learn how to adapt quickly to changing conditions and make smart investment decisions.
    Effective property management – Discover approaches that actually work in the real world.

    With no fluff and no jargon, Behind the Sign is all about providing actionable advice and expert insights you can trust.

    Why Listen?
    In today’s fast-moving property market, staying informed is crucial. By tuning in, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to navigate challenges, spot opportunities, and manage your properties more effectively. It’s like having an experienced partner by your side, every step of the way.

    Listen Now
    The first episode of Behind the Sign is now live, and you can catch it on your favourite podcast platforms:

    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify

    Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Share it with fellow landlords, investors, and anyone who wants to stay ahead in Northern Ireland’s property market.

    Behind the Sign is brought to you by Property People NI. With over 18 years of experience and more than 500 properties under management, we’re proud to support landlords, investors, and homeowners with expert guidance and trusted services.

    Stay tuned for more episodes, and let’s continue building a stronger, more informed property community together.
  • Your Home's Value: Why the Market is Hot
    Posted on 27 August 2025

    Your Home's Value: Why the Market is Hot



    Is Now the Right Time to Sell Your Home in Belfast?

    Welcome to our latest market update! As we head into the autumn months, we're taking a look at the current state of the Belfast property market, and the news is good for sellers.

    The Market is Booming
    You might have heard the buzz—the market is hotter than ever. From starter homes to high-value properties, homes are consistently selling for over the asking price. This is a trend that began to heat up in spring and has continued its momentum right through the summer.

    Strong Buyer Demand
    We're seeing incredibly strong demand from a range of buyers. This includes first-time buyers who are eager to get on the property ladder, as well as buy-to-let investors looking to expand their portfolios. This diverse interest means more eyes on your property and a better chance of securing a great offer.

    Why Now Is a Great Time to Sell
    With high demand and homes selling quickly, now is a fantastic time to put your property on the market. Our team has recently brought on a number of new listings, and all of them have quickly gone sale agreed for over the asking price. If you're thinking of making a move, you can take advantage of these strong market conditions.

    Ready to Make Your Move?
    If you're interested in selling or simply want to chat about the market, our team is here to help you get started.


    Contact us today!
    📞 02890747300
  • Property People Expands with New Andersonstown Road Branch
    Posted on 23 June 2025

    Property People Expands with New Andersonstown Road Branch




    We are absolutely thrilled to announce a significant milestone in our journey: the official opening of our brand-new branch on Andersonstown Road! This exciting expansion marks our fourth office in total, and our third strategically located branch right here in Belfast, further cementing our commitment to serving communities across Northern Ireland.

    Rooted in Trust, Growing with Belfast
    For over 20 years, Property People has proudly established itself as one of Northern Ireland's most trusted estate and letting agents. Our dedication to excellence, unparalleled service standards, and a deep understanding of the local property market have earned us a reputation for delivering outstanding results. The opening on Andersonstown Road is a testament to our ongoing growth and our unwavering commitment to bringing our award-winning services closer to you.

    A Community-Focused Approach
    We are particularly excited to become an even more integral part of the vibrant and growing West Belfast community. This new location allows us to enhance our local presence and provide easily accessible, integrated property services to everyone looking to buy, sell, rent, or manage property in the area. We believe in fostering strong community ties and are eager to contribute positively to the area's continued success.

    Building on a Legacy
    Our new Andersonstown Road branch builds upon a local legacy, following our acquisition of a long-standing family-run estate agency in the area. This integration allows us to combine our extensive expertise with a rich local heritage, ensuring a seamless and trusted service for all existing and new clients.

    Your Trusted Partner for All Property Needs
    Whether you're a first-time buyer embarking on your property journey, a landlord seeking expert management services, or looking to sell your home, our experienced team is ready to provide tailored advice and support. Our highly qualified professionals adhere to the highest industry practices, ensuring you receive a service that is both reliable and results-driven.

    Visit Us Today!
    We extend a warm invitation to visit our new Andersonstown Road branch. Our team is eager to welcome you and assist with all your property enquiries. Come in for a chat, explore our listings, or simply say hello!

    Discover the difference with Property People – your trusted local experts.
  • How many homes should you look at before making an offer?
    Posted on 17 May 2025

    How many homes should you look at before making an offer?




    How many viewings should you do per day?
    Darran Jospeh, from VG Estate Agent believes that three to four viewings in a day is an optimum number. He comments, "It gives buyers enough variety to compare properties while still allowing time to properly absorb the details of each one. Any more than that, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed or begin to forget the relative pros and cons of individual properties.”

    Tim Bennett, from Webbers Estate Agents agrees, adding, "it's best to limit viewings to three or four properties per day to avoid fatigue and confusion. Seeing too many homes in quick succession can make it harder to remember details and compare them effectively."


    Can you view too many homes?

    “You can quite easily lose sight of what it is you’re looking for when you’re consistently at back-to-back viewings, so sometimes, less is more," says Murray Rose from Town & Village Properties. He adds, "it’s key to take time to reflect on each batch of viewings, but on the contrary, you don’t know if you’re going to like something until you’ve seen it, so keep viewing until you find the one, just make sure to take the odd breather.”

    Amy Kimber, from John Minnis, concurs. "Viewing too many properties, especially without a clear set of criteria, can blur your judgment and make it harder to commit when the right home does come along. We always encourage buyers to define their priorities early—such as budget, location, and non-negotiable features—to keep your search focused and efficient."


    What should buyers look for during a property viewing?
    Amy also notes that, "beyond the initial impressions, it’s important to examine the condition, layout, and long-term practicality of the home. Look for signs of damp, cracks in the walls, the condition of windows and doors, and the age of systems like the boiler and electrics. Take note of natural light, storage space, traffic noise, and the general upkeep of neighbouring properties. These less obvious details often have the biggest impact on your long-term satisfaction."

    Andrew Gregory from The Letting Station's personal method is to always look at a house from the other side of the road. He says, "look for square lines, cracks, chimney issues and slipped tiles or slates. Inside is usually cosmetic but concentrate firstly on the building itself."


    Should buyers take photos or videos during viewings? Are there etiquette rules around this?
    Katie Griffin, from Sawdye & Harris understands how important it is for buyers to fully engage with a property before making an offer — and that often includes taking photos or videos during viewings to help decision-making or refer back to a specific property later. She says, "however, it’s essential that this is done respectfully. We always recommend that buyers ask for permission first. It’s not only good etiquette but also ensures the privacy and comfort of the current owners are maintained. A viewing is the beginning of a potential transaction, and setting the right tone early on really does matter."


    Is it better to view homes during the day or evening? Why?

    “Daytime viewings allow you to see the property in natural light, which is ideal for spotting any imperfections. In the late spring and summer, evening viewings are useful as it still tends to be light enough to appreciate interiors and gardens however, you might also get a sense of how busy the road gets, especially if you are limited to on-street parking,” says Darran Jospeh, from VG Estate Agent.


    How long should a buyer spend at a viewing?
    “A solid 20 to 30 minutes is usually sufficient for the first viewing. Take your time but don’t linger too long—if you like the place, you can always arrange a second visit to dive deeper into the details. Buyers tend to get a sense straight away if the property feels right, but measuring for furniture should be left for a second or third viewing,” says Darran Jospeh, from VG Estate Agent.


    What’s the best way to give feedback after a viewing?
    “Be honest! We and our clients want to know what you really thought, and it definitely does help. Feedback enables us to work out if our clients need to do anything different going forward, and as they work so hard preparing their properties to look their best, we welcome it always, good or bad. We always document it on our file notes, so it doesn’t matter how, when or where you tell us,” says Murray Rose from Town & Village Properties.


    What to do if you find the perfect house on the first viewing?
    Tim Bennett, from Webbers Estate Agents, encourages buyers to act quickly. "If it ticks all the boxes, don’t be afraid to act fast—great homes don’t stay on the market for long. Still, consider a second viewing to confirm your decision and check finer details before making an offer."

    "In an ideal world, we’d all buy the first property we looked at, but it just doesn’t usually happen. Many find it comforting to ‘try a few pairs of shoes on’ before they find the right one, but ultimately, why do you need to if you’ve found it? Property makes us feel, and if you feel it, go with your gut,” agrees Murray Rose from Town & Village Properties.


    Is it acceptable to put an offer in on multiple properties?

    Michelle Cook, from Cook Residential, comments, “While it’s technically possible to offer on more than one property at a time, at Cook Residential, we don’t encourage this approach. Doing so can create uncertainty for sellers and wastes valuable time for vendors who may believe your offer is serious and committed. We always advise buyers to be respectful of the process — once you’re confident a property is right for you, that’s the time to proceed with an offer. Clarity and good faith go a long way in achieving a smooth, successful transaction for everyone involved.”
  • How to upgrade your home for less
    Posted on 10 May 2025

    How to upgrade your home for less




    Paint your kitchen cabinets

    If you’re looking for an easy way to update the look of your home, paint your cabinets. Freshly painted cabinets give your home the update it needs without the cost of a full kitchen renovation. Choose light colours to brighten up your space, but don’t be afraid of colour: light blue or pale green both look fantastic in a kitchen.

    Update your fixtures
    New cabinet door handles or knobs on the sink can make a surprising difference in any room in your house. Choose modern door handles to update your kitchen, and you can even consider painting your sink knobs to give them a much-needed facelift.

    Add mirrors

    Mirrors can make any space seem larger and are an easy way to ‘open up’ a room without knocking down a wall. Hang a large mirror on an open wall, or consider a gallery wall of smaller mirrors for a room that’s tricky to decorate.

    Invest in landscaping
    Kerb appeal is king, so be sure that the outside of your home is attractive. The entrance to your home should be neat and tidy, and consider adding some landscaping to the front of your property. A tree or two works well in a more rural environment, and never underestimate the power of a few potted plants in an urban home.

    Freshen up your front door

    First impressions count, and there’s nothing less appealing than a front door with peeling paint. You can stay classic and choose a front door in a neutral glossy shade, or pick a brighter colour with some personality.

    Add wooden floors
    Wall-to-wall carpet is no longer a popular choice, as homeowners now prefer wooden floors that they can choose to put a rug on. Many types of wooden flooring are available on a budget, so consider vinyl flooring in a wooden pattern or get reclaimed wooden floors for less.

    Add visible storage

    Adding storage is a great way to add value to your property, and visible storage is an extremely easy way to make use of the more awkward spaces in your home. Look for spaces like nooks in corridors, eaves, spaces under stairs, space above sinks, and wall space for mounted cupboards. Adding visible storage in these places is a great way to showcase your personality as well as cut the clutter.
  • How letting agents support landlords
    Posted on 3 May 2025

    How letting agents support landlords




    Is a letting agent for you?
    Letting agents can manage some or all of the work involved in letting a property to a tenant. You may want to use a letting agent if the following apply to your situation:
    • You do not have enough time to fulfil all the responsibilities
    • You do not have much experience of being a landlord
    • You would prefer to have someone else deal with tenant issues and relations
    • You do not have a good awareness of relevant regulations and legislation
    • You are letting property in a different area from where you live

    What does a letting agent do?

    Letting agents can manage some or all of the work involved in letting a property to a tenant. Here are the different service options explained:
    A let only agent is responsible for finding a tenant and moving them in. The agent will market the property for you and host property viewings. They will find the right tenant for you by performing background checks and will collect necessary information from an interested tenant. Once a suitable tenant has been found, the agent will draw up the tenancy agreement, create an inventory of the property, and move the tenant in. After the tenants have moved into the property, the responsibility goes back to you, the landlord.

    Full management is exactly what you might expect. With full management, your letting agent takes care of everything from finding a tenant to sorting out maintenance issues to ensuring your buy-to-let investment is always aligned with the latest laws and regulations. Whether you have just one property to let or multiple, this is a safe and easy option for any landlord.

    How to choose the right letting agent.

    Are you looking for someone to find you a tenant, then take it from there or would you like to have someone look after your investment for you? Once you have made a decision, you can research which agents provide the best overall service for what you require.
    Professional bodies provide members with the latest Government guidance and advice, which is vital information for ensuring your property investment is operating legally and safely. Is the agent a member of a professional body, such as The Guild of Property Professionals, the National Approved Lettings Scheme, The Association of Residential Letting Agents or The UK Association of Accredited Letting Agents?
    Looking at reviews from tenants and landlords will give you an indication of how others have found their service.
    Ask for a full list of services they provide, what their process is, and how they conduct their services. Here are a few things you might ask about:
    • Marketing strategies - does the agent offer virtual services?
    • Paperwork
    • Contact hours
    • Maintenance and repairs
    • Protocols for late rent payments and other potential issues
    • Your contract with the agent
    Comparing fees can help you find the best value for money. However, don’t immediately opt for the cheapest option you can find, as you may discover that cheaper fees can sometimes indicate a less than satisfactory quality of service.

    The Renters' Reform Bill
    Letting agents play a crucial role in supporting landlords with compliance and management responsibilities, especially when new legislation like the Renters' Reform Bill comes into effect. Letting agents keep landlords informed and compliant with new legal obligations introduced by the Renters' Reform Bill, including:
    • Abolition of Section 21: Helping landlords understand the new process for regaining possession using amended Section 8 notices.
    • New grounds for possession: Guiding landlords through legitimate grounds (e.g., wanting to sell the property, repeated rent arrears).
    • Periodic tenancies: Managing the shift away from fixed-term contracts to rolling tenancies.
    Your agent can also conduct thorough referencing to reduce the risk of problematic tenants and help landlords select reliable tenants, which becomes even more important with stronger tenant protections. If an issue arises, letting agents handle communication with tenants and assist with issuing the correct notices (e.g., Section 8). They can also handle arrears through communication and, if needed, legal processes compliant with the new laws. Plus much more.
  • Spring staycation destinations
    Posted on 26 April 2025

    Spring staycation destinations




    County Antrim, Northern Ireland

    Whether it's the grounds of the 400-year-old Antrim Castle and Gardens on Lough Neagh, the bastion of Carrickfergus Castle guarding Belfast Lough or the wondrous walled garden of Glenarm Castle, there is plenty here for the history buff to fill their boots with. County Antrim is a perfect snapshot of Northern Ireland. Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.

    Salcombe, Devon

    Salcombe is a charming coastal town in the south of Devon. The town is known for water sports, sailing, and the surrounding natural beauty, as well as having incredible shops and restaurants. Head to Fore Street next to the water to discover the best range of cuisine that Salcombe has to offer, as quality restaurants and bars line the streets. If you're looking for a small, quiet getaway, this town is just that. 

    Norwich, Norfolk

    Norfolk is a county in the east of England, full of adventure and activities. Norwich is specifically a great location for a quick spring getaway, as this cathedral city showcases ancient beauty and exciting stories. With classic English pubs hidden in corners, cobbled streets all over the city, and open-air markets located in the heart of Norwich, there's plenty to discover. During springtime, the Norwich and Norfolk festivals run in May, creating an incredible bustling atmosphere in the county. 

    Padstow, Cornwall

    When visiting Cornwall, there are many places to discover and explore. The Padstow harbour is a real gem filled with small, beautiful boats, creating a picture-perfect town. The town is small, making it easy to walk around, with plenty of pretty shops to enjoy. If you want to escape the busy atmosphere, then there are pristine beaches to uncover for walking and relaxing while taking in the breathtaking Cornish views. 

    Isle of Anglesey, Wales

    The the small Welsh island of Anglesey, a favourite amongst royals, is home to incredible landscapes and wildlife. With the best beaches stretching for miles and dramatic views, this place truly is a fairytale location. Boat trips are the best way to discover the true Anglesey. From April onwards, you are able to spot puffins, seals, dolphins, and much more. To truly escape reality, you must visit one of the many lighthouses on the Welsh coast and discover the truly magical views the island has to offer.

    Northumberland

    Northumberland is a county located in the North East of England. Within this county, there is so much to see and explore: 39 castles, all bursting with character, as well as a walker’s paradise with incredible landscapes and views, creating a wonderful retreat away from reality. The main attraction of this county is one of the world's most famous wonders, Hadrian's Wall, built almost 2,000 years ago and stretches over the entire county. Northumberland is also known for its incredibly low levels of light pollution, creating the perfect observatory to admire and spot stars as they light up the sky. 
  • Finding a rental property this spring
    Posted on 19 April 2025

    Finding a rental property this spring





    Check legislation in your location
    The rental market is an ever-evolving landscape, and whether it’s your first time renting, or it’s been a while since your last tenancy, it could be a good idea to brush up on your rights as a tenant and any new laws regarding renting. This will give you a good idea of what to expect for your next home and how to navigate your next tenancy agreement.

    Establish a budget
    When searching for the perfect rental property, you need to identify how much you can afford per month. Spring is known for being one of the hottest seasons in the property market, so it’s essential to plan and budget ahead of time so you can place your application in quickly.

    Find a home that suits your needs

    Now that you have identified how much you can afford, it’s time to discover which homes suit you and your lifestyle. Price, location, and size are the three main criteria you need to keep in mind. Establishing all your ‘must-haves’ will allow you to narrow your search and find your home faster, which can easily be achieved online using property search filters. 

    Should you rent through a letting agent?
    If you’re interested in a particular home, it’s important to find out who is managing the property. There are many advantages to finding a rental property managed by a letting agent, from regular maintenance to high-quality standards and sound legal compliance, a letting agent is essentially the middleman between the landlord and tenant, allowing a smooth and professional rental experience.

    Ask the right questions
    There are certain questions you need to ask your agent to ensure you are getting the most out of the property, such as: 
    • Are any bills included in the rent? 
    • How much is the deposit? 
    • Who will be managing the property? (Private landlord or letting agent) 
    • How long is the rental contract? 
    • What type of tenancy agreement will I be signing? 
    • Who is responsible for the maintenance of the property? 
    • When can I move in?

    Settle in

    Finding your perfect rental property can be a rewarding process, but it’s no easy feat without a helping hand. By getting in touch with a letting agent and starting your search in spring, you can get settled into your new home just in time for summer.
  • Top tips to decorate your home for Easter
    Posted on 11 April 2025

    Top tips to decorate your home for Easter




    Hang a wreath

    Beautiful door decorations needn’t be confined to Christmas! Springtime wreaths – both handmade and storebought – are wonderful for greeting guests and setting a bright seasonal tone for your home’s entrance.

    Get creative with table settings
    Guests love thoughtful touches, and you can create lovely name cards embellished with Easter stickers or cute marker drawings, tie cutlery and napkins together with pastel ribbons, or even create mini nests by filling tea-light holders with shredded tissue and hand-painted eggs.

    Create a centrepiece bowl

    Easter is a wonderful time to incorporate some seasonal décor into your home, and since your dining table will be working hard this season, you might as well make it the centre of attention! Fill a large decorative bowl or layered trays with pretty trinkets such as Easter treats, painted eggs, fake baby chicks, and finish off with faux daisies and daffodils.

    Let the sun flood in
    Natural lighting is your home’s best friend, and now is the perfect time to make the most of spring’s beautiful golden rays by switching to lighter curtains and keeping them open during the day.

    Arts and crafts

    Get the kids involved with no-sew bunny and egg banners by cutting out card shapes to arrange along a piece of string. This is a great way to make use of scrapbook paper or repurpose any wallpaper remnants – the more colour variety, the better! Naturally dyed eggs are also a great way to create some vibrant Easter eggs from natural ingredients. They’re also ideal for using in an Easter egg hunt around your house or garden.

    Display treats
    While you’re prepping for Easter egg hunts and seasonal gifts, you may as well display your Easter treats around the home. Grab a basket and load it up with Eggs and sweet treats of every size and colour – they will make the perfect display piece before the time comes to hide them all around your garden.

    Daffodil décor

    Nothing brightens up a room quite like a vase filled with blooming yellow daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. While they’re still in season, you can make the most of our bright and early friends by displaying them in interesting planters and jugs. If you aren’t a fan of primary colours, you can balance out the look with a transparent or white vase to create a harmonious flower display that doesn’t throw-off your home’s colour scheme.