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 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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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