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.
Start with a spring clean and create a vision of a better garden Gathering the debris from winter, such as fallen branches and leaves, while formulating the vision for your garden is essential. As you tidy up the flower beds, turn over the soil, and divide up your perennials, be careful not to prune spring-blooming trees; otherwise, they may be flowerless this summer. Plan your improvements carefully, deciding what you want to achieve by embracing the trends and themes you love. A visit to a good garden centre is a great place to find inspiration.
Wellness gardens are good for you If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of your busy life, your garden is just the place. Take this to the next level by creating a relaxation space that works best for you. It could be building a pergola and incorporating a meditation space within range of the soothing sound of a water fountain and the scent of herbs, flowers, and candles. Mood-boosting gardens are always on trend, so set your own trends with the details you love.
A sense of fun-defined spaces Take the opportunity this spring to define your outdoor garden spaces. Create an outdoor kitchen, living room, or play area for younger family members. A sense of fun is on trend in spring and all year round. Working in harmony and seamlessly flowing with other areas of your garden, your outdoor fun places can have layered functions and themes. Incorporate sustainability, nature, practicality, relaxation, serenity, and seasonality with a little technology to increase levels of comfort.
Edimentals are still on the rise Edimentals are beautiful, practical, and low-maintenance plants that are both ornamental and edible. Grow delicious food with beautiful flowers among your other plants. The obvious choices are herbs and strawberry plants, which can be planted in the spring. But there are a vast number of more interesting choices you can plant in spring, such as Daylily, which is a beautiful flower that tastes delicious in salads. Japanese Wineberry is another that produces sweet-tasting berries and delicate pink flowers.
Blur your indoor and outdoor boundaries Spring is all about creating new life in your garden. Whether you invite nature by leaving food such as cat food for hedgehogs, mealworms for badgers, fruit for foxes or a simple bird bath. Containers and plant pots are also in vogue, and you have an endless choice of plants to pick from to adorn your decking. Vertical gardens also work well in large or small gardens. Why not create an indoor garden? Plenty of light and regular watering will help it to flourish and beginning your garden inside creates a nice flow to your outside spaces.
Planting for biodiversity and sustainability Climate-friendly gardening is as important as ever. Plant for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. Plant trees and use a water butt to collect rainwater. Grow your own bunch of flowers, use reclaimed wood to make your garden furniture or buy from sustainable furniture brands. The ever-changing weather, partially due to global warming, means it’s important to do your bit while creating shelter from the elements. A greener and more harmonious natural space leads to more beautiful results.
Tune in to the seasons Celebrating the changing seasons is on trend. Artificial grass and garden furniture do little for the environment and are becoming less popular. Grass, meadows, wildflowers, and weeds are on trend. Dandelions come in many species, attract wildlife, and look pretty in wild gardens standing next to Daisies. Evergreens and uniformity are being replaced with more diverse and seasonal themes. Water features, shrubs, flowers, and trees infused with international influences create defined areas that flow yet contrast, such as a meadow with a neatly trimmed lawn.
Events and activities One of the first signs of a strong community spirit is an active calendar of neighbourhood events. A great community will have regular social gatherings, festivals, charity events, funruns or meetups. These can range from street parties and farmers' markets to local sports leagues or fundraisers for a good cause. Check local community centers, notice boards, or social media groups for announcements about upcoming events. If the area is buzzing with opportunities to get involved, it's a good sign that the people living there enjoy interacting and supporting one another.
Active local social media groups In the digital age, many villages and towns have social media pages or groups where residents share news, offer support, or just chat. Joining these groups (often on Facebook) is a great way to gauge the level of interaction in the community. Active groups show that people are engaged, whether it's recommending local businesses, helping each other with small tasks, or organizing local events. A sense of camaraderie and positive interaction online is usually a reflection of what's happening in the community offline as well.
The condition of the local area A well-maintained neighbourhood often signals that residents care about their community. Take a walk or drive through the area and pay attention to the cleanliness of the streets, the upkeep of public spaces, and the condition of local parks or green spaces. Well-kept areas with flowers, art, and tidy streets are often maintained by community groups or local volunteers working together to keep the neighborhood pleasant and welcoming.
A welcoming atmosphere There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being welcomed by your next-door neighbours. As you explore a potential new neighborhood, take note of the interactions you have with the people you meet. Do they smile and greet you? Are people chatting in their front gardens or having friendly conversations at the local coffee shop? If you’re met with open, friendly faces and genuine interest in newcomers, it's a strong sign that the community values connection and inclusivity. Sometimes, the best way to know if an area has a good community spirit is by simply engaging with the people who live there.
Good local amenities and services A thriving area often has a mix of good local amenities, such as schools, healthcare facilities, public transport, and shops. When an area has access to essential services and offers a good range of local businesses, it’s a sign that the people living there support one another by shopping locally and relying on shared services.
Safety and security While safety isn't the only factor in creating a sense of community, it plays a significant role. Neighbourhoods with a strong sense of community often have residents who look out for each other. If you feel comfortable walking around at all hours of the day, seeing neighbors keeping an eye out for each other, or noticing that the neighborhood is well-lit and monitored, it indicates a close-knit community. Community-led initiatives like neighbourhood watch programs or local safety committees also show that the people living there care about the well-being of each other and are proactive in keeping the area safe.
Economic growth expectations Whilst economic growth expectations have moderated a little for 2025 (the Bank of England recently cut its GDP forecast for the year to 0.75%), the economy is still expected to grow and growth levels should be sufficient to drive moderate house price growth. Beyond 2025, current economic forecasts point to stronger year next year, with economic growth momentum picking up speed. With a few conflicting signals the Bank of England will likely take a slow and measured approach to further interest rate cuts, but forecasts suggest there is scope for further rate cuts. The consensus forecast for year end is 3.75%.
Sales volumes recovery Sales volumes suffered through much of 2023 and early 2004, what is evident now in the market is a recovery to normal levels of activity. The latest month sales volume for the UK* reported 88,200 monthly sales – broadly in line with the levels of activity in the market for the 5 years prior to covid. Mortgage approvals, which are the front runner to transaction activity, have also recovered to long-term trend levels. Latest monthly data** was 66,500 exactly the same as the monthly average for the 5 years to end 2019 (pre covid).
Market Activity January activity levels are certainly much stronger than a year ago. The number of new sellers coming to market was 13% ahead, buyer demand 8% ahead, and sales agreed numbers up by 15% according to Rightmove data. Additionally, the RICS leading indicator for prices has been at its strongest level for the last 3 months since the Truss mini budget in September 2022. First-time buyers have an extra motive to get on with their transactions, with the reversal in the stamp-duty exemption now looming close at the end of March.
Shifting market dynamics Buyer confidence appears to be continuing to grow. In a recent poll, 62% of agents think that buyer confidence has slightly or significantly improved compared to 3 months prior*. However, the positive impact of improvements in buyer activity have been tempered slightly by extra supply for sale coming onto the market – keeping price growth low in some geographies. In fact, Rightmove data suggests that the national supply of homes for sale is at a 10 year high. Average property values in the region were up 9% on last year’s levels. Strongest price growth was evident in Lisburn and Castlereagh, Fermanagh and Omagh and Belfast, all growing by more than 10%. *Dataloft by PriceHubble, poll of subscribers
Cash sales With the recovery in mortgage lending in 2024, the proportion of cash sales (those not requiring a mortgage) has also fallen back to more typical levels. Through 2023, when mortgage lending fell, the proportion of cash sales rose to a cyclical peak of 34%. For the 5 years prior to that the average was 28%. In 2024, the proportion of cash deals fell back to 31% and will likely fall back further in 2025 towards the long-term average. 12% growth in sales agreed in Northern Ireland*.
Have a spring clean One of the best ways to attract buyers at this time of year is by having a spring clean. This gives you the opportunity to declutter your home and remove any unnecessary items that may distract buyers, which can help them envision themselves living in the property. It also helps to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere that can appeal to buyers. When buyers see a clean and well-organised space, they are more likely to believe that the home has been well cared for and is worth the asking price.
Make renovations and improvements Making renovations to your home before putting it on the market can significantly increase its appeal. Buyers are often looking for a move-in-ready home that is modern and functional. By renovating key areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms, you can show buyers that your home is up-to-date and ready for them to settle into. Renovations can also help you make the most of the space in your home. Knocking down walls, adding built-in storage, or updating the layout can create a more open and inviting environment that buyers will love. Installing triple-glazed windows, adding insulation, or upgrading to eco-friendly appliances can also help attract buyers who are looking to save money on their bills.
Decorate your home Re-decorating your home can help it stand out in the property market and attract buyers. Whether it's adding pops of colour with fresh flowers, updating your decor with light and airy fabrics, or applying a coat of paint to your interior walls, simple changes can make a big impact when selling your home. By using light and neutral colours, incorporating comfortable furniture, and adding personal touches, you can make your home feel warm and inviting. Remember, buyers are looking for a place to call their own, so creating a space that feels like home can make all the difference in attracting the right buyer.
Use high-quality photos Another effective way of catching the eye of potential buyers is by taking and selecting high-quality photos for your property listings. Blurry, poorly lit photos can turn off potential buyers and lead them to scroll past your listing without a second thought, so it is crucial that you find an estate agent whose listings contain strong images that stage properties impressively. Natural lighting can also play a crucial role in making your property more appealing to buyers. Bright, natural light can make a space feel inviting, spacious, and welcoming. By opening up your curtains or blinds, it is easier to capture stunning images that showcase your property in the best possible light.
Enhance your property’s kerb appeal First impressions matter, especially when it comes to selling a property. Potential buyers usually form an opinion of a property within seconds of seeing it. A well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing exterior can make your home stand out from the competition and create a positive first impression. Trimming hedges, mowing the lawn, and planting colourful flowers all help make your front garden look inviting, while a fresh coat of paint can give your property a new lease on life. As the front door is the focal point of your property's exterior, making sure it looks smart can have a significant positive impact on the first impressions of potential buyers.
Benefits of buying property with friends One of the main benefits of buying a home with your friends is that you will be able to put a larger deposit down on the property. Because of this, you will be able to access better mortgage deals that will bring your monthly costs down in the long run. You will also have a larger budget to spend on a more spacious and luxurious property that may be out of your financial reach individually.
Additionally, all the costs associated with renovating your home can be split four ways, making them much more manageable. This gives you more scope to create a stylish home that suits the preferences of you and your friends, giving your home that personal touch. Above all else, sharing a home with your friends is enjoyable. Buying a home on your own can be daunting, but buying a property with friends allows you to strengthen your social connections and share responsibility to ease the stress and apprehension that can sometimes surround moving.
Making sure you have an agreement in place Before you move into your new home, it is essential to have a solid agreement in place. This is called a deed of trust. Without proper planning and communication, what should be an exciting venture can turn into a stressful experience if you do not have a written agreement. It should outline each person’s rights and responsibilities so that everybody knows what they can expect and what is expected of them. A deed of trust also helps to make sure that everyone’s finances and payments are recognised and safeguarded. Keeping a comprehensive inventory is also important, as it clearly outlines who bought what. It should include items such as televisions, kitchen appliances, and furniture so that possessions are split fairly if you decide to sell further down the line.
Decide on the type of ownership Your solicitor can advise on the pro's and cons of the different options available to you. A Joint Tenant Agreement is where each party has equal ownership of the property and should one partner die, the property will legally pass to the other partner, regardless of what is stated in the deceased's will. A Tenants in Common Agreement will specify how much of the property each party owns and in the event of a death, their share in the property will go to the person specified in their will.
Getting your finances in order One of the first steps to getting your finances in order when buying property with friends is to establish a budget. You should sit down with your friends and assess your individual financial situations to determine how much you can afford to put towards the deposit, monthly mortgage payments, and utility costs.
Opening a joint bank account is a smart move when buying property with friends, as you can deposit your individual contributions in one safe place. This allows for transparency and keeps track of each person's financial commitment. You and your friends will need to secure a joint mortgage, so it is crucial to thoroughly research and compare mortgage options to find the best terms and interest rates. As this will make you financially associated with your friends, their credit history could be taken into account when applying for credit, making it important to ensure everything is in order.
Things to consider As exciting as it is to buy a new property with your friends, there are some risks and challenges that need to be considered. Property search: When searching for a property together, each person may have differing goals and expectations. Some may view it as a short-term option, while others view it as a future home. It is therefore essential to align your goals from the beginning and have a clear plan in place.
Financial responsibility: Sharing financial responsibilities is one of the greatest challenges when buying property with friends, as splitting the purchase price, mortgage payments, and ongoing expenses can lead to disagreements and strain the friendship if a strong agreement is not in place or not followed.
Decision-making: When multiple people are involved in decision-making, conflicts can arise. Implementing a system for decision-making, such as a voting process or appointing a spokesperson, can help avoid conflicts and ensure everyone's voices are heard. Moving out: When the time comes when one or all parties are looking to move out, it can be difficult to decide your next steps. Because of this, it is important to discuss and establish a plan for potential future scenarios, potentially even pre-negotiating a buyout option. Having a clear exit strategy outlined in the initial agreement can prevent disputes and maintain a smooth transition.
Set some house rules A friendship can be strained if there are disagreements over smoking, housework, pets or overnight guests. Discuss and agree in advance any 'house rules' which will impact on day to day living, you may find out that your friend has animal fur allergies which could put paid to your long-coveted plans of owning a cat or dog. Draw up a list of who owns what, it will save confusion when you come to move on. Make sure you keep it up to date as your house evolves into a home and you invest in new sofas and rugs.
Choosing the right estate agents Choosing the right estate agent is essential as they will be the ones finding your buyers, showing them round and advising you on price. Do some research and find an agent that you feel confident in. You want an agent who’s positive and sincere, as they will be persuasive when it comes to selling. Ask neighbours, friends and family which agents they have worked with and ask how easy they found the buying process. Chances are, if they were happy in the agent’s hands when buying their house, your buyers will feel the same. It’s also a good idea to find out how they will market your home and how they will select buyers, as this is key to finding the right buyers who will pay a reasonable price for your property. Your local Guild Member has been expertly chosen to join our network as they are a trusted voice in your area, championing knowledge, integrity and results when selling your property.
Consider home improvements You don’t necessarily need to do lots of DIY to achieve the best price, but make sure any improvements you have made are up to scratch. Any sub-standard work might reduce the value of your property and buyers could use this to negotiate a lower price. Think carefully about who your target buyers are and tweak rooms to suit their lifestyles.
Price When deciding what price to market your property at, do your own research as well as taking advice from your estate agent. Decide on a price that’s strategic and then work with your estate agent to determine a strategy that will enable you to achieve that price. It could be by marketing your property at a slightly higher price to leave room for negotiation, or at a slightly lower price and asking for offers over and above that figure. This usually depends on your marketplace and whether there is high demand for property in your area.
Highlight and downplay Not everything in your house will be a pull-factor and equally, there will be many features that make it a dream home for lots of people. Make a list of pros and cons, and find ways of highlighting the positives and downplaying the negatives. This can be as simple as changing your light fittings to highlight a modern kitchen or neutrally decorating a small room so it seems like a handy extra space rather than a problem.
Communicate with your estate agent Tell your estate agent what you love about your property and the area. Unless you tell them about your great neighbours, the lovely pub down the road and the convenient places to park the car, they won’t necessarily know. Also point out any recent changes you’ve made to the property so they can show off what’s new.
Planning permission Although doing any renovation work prior to your sale might be unrealistic and potentially costly, getting planning permission for an extension or conversion can show off the potential of your property. Speak to your estate agent first and find out if this will be attractive to your target buyers.
Feedback During the viewing process, always ask for feedback and take any advice on board. You might be able to find solutions to any problems and avoid putting off future buyers.
Set the scene Your home isn’t just a place to rest your head, it should be your retreat from the stresses of the outside world. Choose your most comfortable room or a cosy nook to set the scene. Consider spaces with ample lighting and ventilation, as these elements will contribute significantly to your sense of calm.
Simplify your living spaces A clutter-free home is a peaceful home, so take a minimalist approach when designing a wellness space. Decluttering and simplifying could be as easy as removing a few unnecessary items in favour of pieces that contribute to the soothing atmosphere you’re trying to create. A balanced, thoughtfully designed space is perfect for meditation and quiet reflection as it minimises distractions.
Create a habitat for hobbies A key element in health and well-being is having time to invest in your hobbies and interests. Whatever your niche, dedicate a room or a workspace to it so that you can focus your full attention on the things you love. This space should feel separate from the distractions of the rest of the house, so choose a spare bedroom, an office corner or even a spot in the garage or shed.
Choose a mindful colour palette Colours have a profound impact on our mood, so opt for a calming colour palette that resonates with you. Whatever your favourite colour, find it in a soft shade and pair it with neutrals to create a serene backdrop for your wellness space.
Tap into your senses Engage your senses with elements that go beyond the visual. Find spots around your home for candles, essential oils, and speakers for soothing music to create a multi-sensory experience. You should also focus on touch by layering on top of smooth, shiny surfaces with plush cushions and soft materials.
Add personal touches Infuse your wellness space with personal touches that hold significance for you, as the sense of familiarity will be comforting. Display your favourite artwork, photographs, or cherished trinkets that hold happy memories. Surrounding yourself with meaningful items can heighten your sense of belonging, promoting a welcoming and homely atmosphere.
Create a room for rest Occasional naps have plenty of health benefits, especially if you work long hours in the week and often find yourself in need of a reset. Create a space dedicated to restful, rejuvenating sleep by utilising black-out blinds, memory foam pillows and mattresses, and a shelf of easy-read books. Try to strip back on technology in this area, as television, tablets and other blue-light emitting devices can have a detrimental impact on our quality of sleep.
1. The approach No one wants to stumble through a gate falling off its hinges, unless you are selling a ‘project’. If you are replacing it, choose a suitable gate for your property; does wood or wrought iron work best? If you’re painting your current gate, the aim is to be appealing but in keeping. Think neutral colours for a fresh, palatable look. Tidy the path up too, by removing any weeds and cleaning the edges. Trim the grass or plants neatly or sweep the stones off the path. Make a manicured ‘yellow brick road’ to your front door.
2. A touch of green Many people love quirky, off-beat looks, but consider giving your front door some symmetry with a matching set of shrubs or hanging baskets. It can create a clean, precise look and be pleasing to the eye. Alternatively, layer some plants around your porch to give depth and definition. Having a selection of plants in various pots gives a ‘garden’ feel, while keeping the look casual and contemporary. It will also give a low-maintenance and achievable feel. Remember even the most polished, modern homes will be softened by some greenery, breaking the aspect up.
3. General tidy up There is no need to have your children’s summer toys strewn all over the garden or piled in the sandpit, collect them and store them away. Your potential buyers may not have children, which could make the toys extremely off-putting. Remove weeds in any plant beds, mow the lawn and tidy the edges up. Even if you aren’t into gardening, there is no need for it to look messy. Don’t forget to take a good look at your windows – they should be clean and streak-free, just in case your viewers choose to peek inside.
4. The front door Take a closer look at your door fittings and be objective. If you don’t want to press your finger into the mouldy-looking ringer, no one else is likely to! Choose something in keeping with your home. Think about whether a knocker or a door bell is more in-keeping and a nice clean handle is a good starting point. Also, take a look at the door itself. Start by giving it a good clean and remove dust and cobwebs which have built up. You could also give it a new lease of life with a fresh, colour. Avoid neon pinks, but you can be bolder than you think and give your property some character. When it comes to the welcome mat, opt for something simple and welcoming. A personalised mat may put people off when trying to imagine your property as their home.
5. Guttering General tidying up is one thing, but the guttering needs your attention. Get your rubber gloves out or call someone who can help you; you should replace it if absolutely necessary. It’s something we often put off, but a gutter full of leaves and black muck will be one of the first things people notice. If you have gone to the effort of cleaning the rest of the house, the guttering should match.
6. Artwork, sculptures or water features Give your home some personality with a sculpture or water feature. It doesn’t need to be pretentious or twee, a simple waterfall could work and would make a lovely sound, even inviting native birds to your garden. Be wary of families with small children and don't go for anything too deep. Gnomes tend to stir strong feelings in most, so maybe choose something different.
7. Lighting There will undoubtedly be some viewers who do a late-night ‘drive-by’. Light your property up and give it a homely glow that looks inviting on a winter’s evening. There’s no need for neon uplighters which upset everyone on the street. Instead, some subtle solar lights along the path, or well-chosen lamps by your front door will look lovely.
8. Don’t forget the garage If your garage and its door are visible when approaching your house, it is definitely part of your kerb appeal. Again, give the door a good clean to freshen it up – although you should get the paint brush out if you need to. Plants are another way to style and hide the garage a little, making if feel like part of your home rather than an ugly, forgotten extension.
9. Hide your rubbish Following a thorough clean, you’re likely to have lots of rubbish – don’t leave it out in piles for people to see! Think ahead and clean and declutter before any visits and in time for bin collection day. Of course you can’t predict when you may have a viewing, but you should be prepared to let people in whenever.
10. The pavement The street outside your home may not be your responsibility, but it is part of the viewing experience. You can’t possibly control it all, but there are some things you can do. If you live on a leafy street, sweep away the dead leaves. If your neighbour’s bins are strewn all over the path, straighten them up. The little details might just help.
1. Loft insulation Without insulation, you can lose a significant amount of heat. Not only does decent insulation keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, but will also add value to your property; prospective buyers will be looking out for homes which are more energy efficient.
2. Clean the gutters As pretty as those falling leaves are, they will collect in your guttering. Designed to prevent damp and leaks, the water should be able to flow through the pipes, well away from your walls. When it comes to selling, shoddy looking guttering can significantly diminish your kerb appeal, but the occasional clean out can make them look as good as new and keep them in good working order.
3. Avoiding frozen pipes If the water in your pipes freezes up, you could end up with a soggy mess. Don't trap heat in certain areas of your home; keeping doors open and allowing the air to circulate will help to prevent isolated cold spots, which is good news for your pipes. Set your heating to come on low during the day, this will help to keep frost at bay. If you go on holiday, keep the heating scheduled and retain some warmth in your home during your absence. Wrapping your pipes with lagging is a good precaution, especially in the coldest areas of your home such as the garage or a chilly utility room.
4. Security As the daylight fades and we get cosy in our warmly lit living rooms, it becomes easier to see the contents of our homes if we are home or not. Do you have a sensor light? Do you draw your curtains in the evening? Do you leave keys, handbags or tablets on display? Get yourself into the habit of leaving a few lights on when you go out and remember to keep valuables out of sight – there is no need to make your home vulnerable.
5. Service your boiler Now is the ideal time to get your boiler serviced. There are several reasons to get this looked at: it will reduce your fuel bills by making your boiler run at its most efficient, it will save you money on future repairs, and your annual service will ensure that you meet any insurance requirements.
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.
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