Christmas has arrived in style at Property People North Belfast! Our team has been busy transforming our office into a festive spectacle, and we're excited to share the holiday spirit with the community.
This year, our window display is a captivating scene straight out of Santa's workshop. A jolly Santa Claus takes centre stage in his bright red sleigh, overflowing with gifts and goodies. Twinkling lights illuminate the scene, casting a warm glow on the beautifully decorated Christmas tree and whimsical decorations. The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by the intricate snowflakes and cheerful elves adding a touch of magic to the display.
We invite you to stop by our office at 223 Antrim Road, Belfast BT15 2GY and experience the festive atmosphere for yourself. Our friendly team is always happy to chat about your property needs, whether you're looking to buy, sell, or rent in North Belfast. We'll even offer you a mince pie and a warm beverage to complete the festive experience!
From all of us at Property People North Belfast, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
The festive spirit is shining bright at Property People South Belfast! Our team has created a stunning Christmas display that's sure to capture the hearts of passersby.
This year, we've gone all out with a glamorous and festive theme. Our office is decked out in sparkling lights, shimmering ornaments, and a touch of gold. We've even created a cosy Christmas corner with a fireplace and comfy armchairs, perfect for relaxing with a cup of hot cocoa.
We encourage you to visit our office at 122 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 6AH and admire the festive decorations. Our team is ready to assist you with all your property needs in South Belfast, whether you're searching for your dream home or looking to sell your property.
We wish you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
What is a period property? Simply put, a period property is one that belongs to a certain period in history. Some may also be listed, which means they are of cultural significance. There are many different types of period properties, such as Elizabethan properties from 1558-1603, Georgian properties from 1714-1837, Victorian properties from 1837-1901, and Edwardian properties from 1901-1910.
How energy-efficient is the property? You probably do not associate period homes with energy efficiency. However, avoid making hasty assumptions. Many period properties have undergone extensive restorations, decoration, and improved things like insulation along the way. You could upgrade the boiler and install energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen. For homes that require such improvements, the process is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right expertise, one can make sash windows draft-free.
What are the features of a period property? Much depends upon which period the property you are viewing belongs. Perhaps you love the ostentatious style of Elizabethan architecture, the symmetry of the Georgian period, or the variety of influences that come with a Victorian property. You may fall in love with a period property for features such as ornate fireplaces, wall panelling, moulded coving, or the sheer beauty, character, and space it provides.
Are there any issues that need attention in the property? There are a few things you would do well to look out for when viewing a property. It’s not uncommon to find damp in period properties. Most pre-1919 homes were built without a damp course. However, other potential causes include weathered pointing and poor ventilation. It's also important to inquire about the state of the electric and plumbing systems. The property in question might have undergone recent rewiring and new plumbing.
Is the property in good condition? Period properties require a little more attention than more modern properties when it comes to restoration. They may require special techniques, and telltale signs will be there if any previous restoration work has been carried out incorrectly. Therefore, don't hesitate to investigate previous restoration work. You may be interested in enlisting the help of an expert or a surveyor.
Do period properties command a higher price? As with other properties, its value depends on many variables. However, period properties are sought after, and their characteristic features and unique traits are captivating. Many have been expertly renovated respectfully and tastefully, and those that have can command higher prices. Thanks to a rich tapestry of architectural history, the UK property scene can provide you with a simply magical home that lasts far into the future. All you have to do is let it find you.
Amp up the cosiness While it’s cold outside, give your guests a warm welcome into your home. Show off any features that make your home feel cosy, get the fireplace going, cook some baked treats for an enticing smell, and lay down all your fluffy rugs and blankets. As guests huddle through your front door in their coats and scarves, your home should feel like a warm embrace from the cold.
Keep flooring and carpets fresh Winter footfall can do a number on your carpets and floors, so make sure to keep on top of things in between viewings. Focus on the hallway where people tend to tread mud in - you could even lay down a cheap rug between viewings to help with the upkeep while the outdoors are especially messy.
Utilise artificial lighting We lose daylight hours during the colder months, so it’s important to keep your home warm and bright if you want it to stand out. Make sure both the inside and outside of your home are well-lit and that all lights and fixtures are in good working order. If there are any dimly lit corners or walkways, consider adding a standing lamp or fairy lights to enhance the space.
Organise the garden and garage Your garden does not need to be in full bloom and manicured to perfection right now, but buyers will be on the lookout for good maintenance. Tidy and organise your garage, sweep up any leaves and cut back overgrown branches to freshen things up in time for viewings. Focus on kerb appeal The outside of your home still matters to potential buyers, even when the sun isn’t shining on it. Enhancing your kerb appeal is a good opportunity to show buyers that your home can withstand harsh weather and look great year-round. Get all the basics right, clean your windows and front door, keep rubbish bins tidy and out of sight, and consider adding a simple pop of colour with a hanging basket or a fresh coat of paint on your door.
Make your rooms look bigger While bundling up in a cosy corner is comforting, tight and cluttered spaces can have the opposite effect. Staging is the key ingredient to making your home feel more spacious. Move furniture away from the walls to create the illusion of space, strip back any personal items such as holiday souvenirs, and utilise hidden storage solutions to clear up some floor space. This will make your home feel like a winter retreat.
The secret is in the planning Make sure you get organised early. If your house is on the market, the chances are you will have to move out within the next 30 days of the sale. Create a list of everything you have to do to complete your move successfully. You can start packing things you don’t use regularly, such as out-of-season clothes and decorative items, like photographs.
De-clutter before your move Moving house is the perfect opportunity to de-clutter. There’s no point in lugging junk to your new house. Be ruthless and get rid of everything you haven’t used in the past year - you can sell your unwanted items online, organise a garage sale or donate them to your favourite charity.
Pack a first-night survival kit
Prepare a bag filled with the main necessities, such as your basic hygiene supplies, change of clothes and snacks, to help get you through the first couple days. Looking for your toothbrush and a pair of pyjamas is the last thing you will want to be doing on the first night in your new home.
Choose the right type of transport If you’re moving a long distance, it’s likely that you won’t have the luxury of making more than one trip. Therefore, it is important that you secure the right size of truck to safely carry all of your belongings in one go. Speak to your moving company - they should be able to advise what size you of truck you will need based on the size of your current house.
Pack smartly Always make sure you label your boxes correctly and fill them in a logical order. Although it might take a bit longer, you’ll be thankful for this when arriving at your new house. You don’t want to be searching for the kettle and mugs amongst a pile of boxes filled with anything from photo frames to bathroom mats and towels. It’s also a good idea to keep an inventory of all your household items in case something goes missing.
Speak to your utility and insurance suppliers Check with your insurer to confirm you’re covered before your move and let them know you’re relocating. Don’t forget to redirect all your mail to your new address and get in touch with utility suppliers so you have running water, electricity and gas at your new place. Also, arrange to have your phone line, cable and internet working if necessary.
Get help If you can’t afford to hire a moving company to help you relocate and unpack, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your friends and family. Whether hired movers or friends and family, make sure you have food and drinks readily available for everyone. They will appreciate a cold drink and a bite to eat during their busy day of heavy lifting and unpacking boxes.
Pack your children’s items last Moving can be difficult for the little ones so make sure they have their favourite toys or a comfort blanket on hand. They might not understand what is happening and be wary of their new environment, so it’s really important they are surrounded with familiar items, especially the ones they have created an emotional attachment to. Likewise, if you have any pets, try to make them comfortable throughout the move to help them feel settled.
Meet your neighbours It’s a good idea to make conversation and build good relationships with your future neighbours from the beginning – let them know you will be moving in and what time the movers will arrive. If you’re moving into a block of flats, don’t forget to ask about any moving policy so you can prepare your schedule for the day. Ensure that you will have sufficient space to park outside your new home and that you don’t block your neighbours’ driveway.
Plan for the unexpected and stay positive No matter how much organising you have done prior to your move, you might still come across some unforeseen circumstances. Things you didn’t expect will always come up and it’s important to stay positive. Moving house is one of the most stressful things to do – remind yourself of all the reasons why you decided to move and celebrate with a nice family dinner. You will soon forget about the struggles when enjoying a cuppa in your beautiful new home.
Maximum exposure Exposing raw materials is a hot interior design trend that’s here to stay. Leaving brickwork, wooden beams and wooden floorboards untouched gives the impression your property is full of original features and charm. If your property isn’t graced with these rustic features, then incorporating plush materials in your furnishings will attract the right kind of attention. A leather chair, an oak dresser or a wool rug each bring an expensive feel to a property.
Symmetry Arranging your furniture symmetrically works very well for creating an elegant, classic look that’s pleasing on the eye. In the living room, you could position two sofas facing each other with a coffee table in between for a classic style. In bedrooms, place the bed in the centre of the wall with matching bedside tables either side. In kitchens, this is much more difficult to do, but you can work with how you dress the dining table with symmetrically arranged candles and vases.
Make it monochrome This fashion statement is equally as stylish in properties and a very easy look to achieve. Simply pare down the decoration in a room to just black and white and then add a few soft furnishings of one bright colour at various points to open up the space.
Let there be light Interesting lighting instantly brings a modern touch to any home. Fitting lights above cabinets will create an unexpected glow, while lights within skirting boards have a particularly luxurious feel. For a quick fix, try replacing your existing lampshades with a modern alternative.
Floating furniture Free-standing furniture is a key trend at the moment and incorporating a few pieces in your home will help to give it the wow-factor. While free-standing islands in the kitchen and wood-burning stoves in the living room are particularly striking, they can be expensive, especially when you’re looking to move home. To avoid spending too much, consider investing in a free-standing cabinet or mirror that you can take with you. These handy pieces of furniture will look good in any home and are useful for making rooms feel larger, too.
Enhancing vistas If your property benefits from a gorgeous view, make the most of it by drawing the eye towards windows. Dressing windowsills with candles, scent diffusers or a vase of flowers will catch the eye and encourage people to take a look at what’s beyond.
Kerb appeal It’s also worth paying attention to the front of your house to give it kerb appeal. We like to feel proud of our homes and part of this is down to what is looks like from the outside. Give the exterior of your house the wow-factor by painting your door in a bold colour, placing two box plants either side of the door and buying a new door knocker and house numbers. It’s a good idea to choose items that catch your eye while your shopping as these are the ones that will also catch the attention of your buyers.
DIY wall art Not able to wallpaper your home? Not only is wall art an affordable way to add personality, colour and style to a room, but you can also change the colour scheme as often as you want. There are a range of designs, styles and prints available online. Alternatively, you could even create some artwork yourself by painting, sketching or printing your own personal photography.
Be brave and create a gallery wall. Lay your artwork on the floor to get an idea of the arrangement you want.
Always check with your landlord before nailing into a wall. If they are reluctant for you to do so, opt for hanging strips instead as they will be much more effective than blue tack and won't leave any permanent marks.
Mood lighting Experimenting with lighting can alter the ambience of any room. If you have any old fairy lights hanging about, display them across your headboard, style them in empty mason jars, or use them to decorate a shelving unit.
Candles are also a great way to revamp any room; they are cost-effective, complement homewares and smell fantastic. You may find that simply lighting a candle can instantly relax you and reduce stress. If candles aren't for you, consider diffusers or essential oil room spray instead.
If you have outside space such as a patio or balcony, consider outdoor lights to enhance the space.
Colourful crockery Investing in a vibrant crockery or glassware collection can transform mealtime, and if you are unable to choose your kitchen decor, this is a great way to accessorize the room to suit your style. If you're looking to get creative, you could purchase your own paint kit to decorate plain crockery yourself.
Why store your stylish pots, pans and utensils in a cabinet when you can show them off? Use a hanging rack to display your favourite cookware.
Trendy textiles Rugs breathe necessary warmth into any room, softening the environment and pulling your colour scheme together. Similarly, small changes like swapping the curtains or adding cushions and throws to a space will instantly personalise it.
Mirrors A well-places mirror can be a powerful asset to any room. Mirrors are known for making a space seem larger and more open, but can also be used to distribute light, emphasize colour or artwork on adjacent walls, and even liven up rooms that don't have windows. Tip: If your landlord is not happy with nails being places into walls, freestanding mirrors work just as well.
Bathroom hacks If your bathroom is looking a little worn, a new shower curtain, bathmat and fresh towels can immediately spruce up the space. Pick a fun colour scheme to add more vibrancy to the room, and consider storage baskets for your toiletries.
Houseplants House plants can not only be used to decorate any room, but also come with health benefits by cleaning the air and can boost healing.
For a low maintenance option, choose succulents as they require less care and less frequent watering. Spider plants can help with poor air quality within a home, and don't require lots of sun, whereas lavender can reduce stress and can aid a better night's sleep. Snake plants remove toxins from the air, and rosemary can help improve concentration and memory.
Fresh paint If your walls are looking grubby, particularly around light switches and plugs, ask your landlord if you can repaint the rooms. Most landlords won't mind, especially if the paint is a neutral shade like white or cream. This will instantly transform the room, making it appear cleaner and sharper, and will give you a project to spend your weekend on.
If your landlord is happy for you to paint your walls as you please, get creative and paint a feature wall to make the room really pop.
Host a pumpkin carving competition Tap into your guests’ competitive side by hosting a pumpkin carving competition. Have your friends and family compete to see who can create the best carved or painted pumpkin. If you don’t have the space to accommodate a pumpkin carving battle, you could ask guests to bring their entries from home to be judged for a prize. But if you really want to make things interesting, lay down some newspaper on your dining table, set a timer and watch the fun and chaos ensue!
Mystery box Play into the fear of the unknown by creating fun mystery boxes. Simply cut holes into the sides of cardboard boxes and have your guests try and feel around for what’s inside. Some good options include cold, cooked spaghetti, skinned grapes, and passion fruit halves.
Look up some spooky recipes Every party needs a good spread, and Halloween is the perfect time to get creative with food. There’s no end of seasonal recipes online to make your buffet or sit-down meal one to remember. Create a creepy menu with dishes like "mummy fingers" (sausages wrapped in pastry "bandages"), "monster eyeballs" (boiled eggs with olive slices), and "witches' brew" (a punch made with lime sherbet and ginger ale). Don't forget to include themed desserts like pumpkin-shaped cookies and toffee apples for a sweet treat.
Host a horror movie marathon If you’re all for Halloween, but not so much for partying, you could turn your living room into a mini cinema by hosting a screening of classic horror films. Create a cosy viewing area with blankets and pillows, and offer out popcorn, snacks, and themed cocktails for your guests to enjoy while watching their favourite spooky flicks.
Extend the party outdoors Halloween is a chilling season, so why not let your guests venture outdoors? Indoor parties can get stuffy and some people might want a breather, so get your firepit ready, dress up your garden with some good old-fashioned motion-activated jump scares, and set up a cosy seating area to extend your party outdoors.
Set the mood with themed decor Transform your home into a haunted mansion with eerie decorations. Consider using cobwebs, fake spiders, skeletons, and flickering candles to create an eerie atmosphere. You can even take it up a notch with fog machines and spooky soundtracks to set the mood. For a more refined party aesthetic, decorate with lanterns, candles and carved pumpkins – they're a Halloween must-have!
Establish a costume theme Halloween gatherings are all about dressing up, but sometimes deciding on a costume can leave some of your guests in a kerfuffle. Make the decision easier by narrowing down their options with a specific theme. Whether it’s scary movie characters, witches and wizards, ghosts, or zombies, you can match your home’s décor to the theme to really create an immersive experience. You can even have a costume contest with prizes for the best, scariest, and most original outfits. This will not only add to the fun but also create fantastic photo opportunities.
Retailers are trendsetters One of the earliest indicators of an area on the rise is the influx of independent retailers. New boutiques, cafes, and niche food stores signal a neighborhood with increasing disposable income. Major brands also spend heavily on market research before choosing locations, so keep an eye on them. Explore local business directories or apps like Yelp to spot these early movers.
Demographics A growing population of young professionals in their 20s and 30s often points to an up-and-coming area. They attract new retailers, cafes, and tech startups, transforming a neighborhood into a lively, desirable place to live. Check census data or local surveys to understand the demographic shifts.
Transport Proximity to transport is key to long-term property value. Areas near major train stations, bus routes, or planned infrastructure projects are usually in high demand. Look beyond well-established hubs—emerging areas just a bit further down the line can offer significant savings and growth potential.
Demand How quickly homes are selling in an area is a great indicator of current demand. If properties are snatched up quickly, it's a sign of a hot market. Use online tools to monitor how long properties are staying on the market in your chosen area.
Developments Don’t just look at what’s already there; find out what’s coming. Planned new transport links, schools, or shopping centers can transform a neighborhood’s appeal and value. Research city development plans and track new construction projects to stay ahead of the game.
Clutter Clutter is not only distracting, but it could indicate that the property does not have adequate storage. Creating a clutter-free, minimalistic environment will help buyers visualize themselves living in your home. Additionally, too much furniture can make a property seem a lot smaller than it is. It can be a good idea to declutter before a house move to ensure your possessions are organised when unpacking your next home, and it has the added bonus of making your current property look even more sleek.
Smells No matter how pleasant your home appears, persistent odours such as the smell of pets, cigarettes, or pungent food can be detrimental when it comes to selling your property. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so we suggest opening your windows to air out your property before a viewing and use air freshener or light a candle to ensure your home doesn’t smell unpleasant.
An untidy exterior Overgrown, unkempt gardens are a big no-no. Ensure the front of your property is clutter-free, and you could add some hanging baskets or a stylish doormat to your porch to showcase your home in the best light from the moment a potential buyer arrives. Take the time to tend to your garden, ensuring the grass is well-kept and the weeds are pulled out.
Noise Most people expect their home to be a place of peace and tranquility. It may not always be preventable, but there are steps you can take to reduce unwanted noise from your property. If sounds such as traffic are unavoidable, ask for your viewings to take place outside of rush hour. If you have the budget to do so, this might be the perfect time to upgrade your windows with high-quality glazing ahead of the move.
No natural light Light and warmth are two of the most important factors to attract a buyer for your home, especially in the colder months of the year. Resolving this issue can be simple. Ensuring the room is well lit, whether that be naturally or with staged lighting is quite simple to fix. Make sure the curtains are open and remove any net curtains.
Bad décor Avoid controversial or quirky décor in your home as it is not to everyone’s taste. What you think is retro, others may consider dated. Bold colours and patterns can turn off a prospective buyer, as it is important for them to see themselves living there and décor plays a huge part in this.
Nightmare neighbours Nobody enjoys noisy or messy neighbours, especially not a potential buyer. This is something you cannot change, but it is something you can manage. Whether their garden hasn’t been cleaned in years, or their pet dogs incessantly bark, get to know your neighbour and perhaps they may be able to help. If all else fails, organising viewings for when they are not home might be beneficial, too.
Poor presentation Poor attention to detail such as: flaking paint on soffits, grubby kitchen units, tatty net curtains, unemptied ashtrays and nicotine stained walls are taken into consideration when viewing a property. Small and affordable fixes such as: freshening up the paint work, or having your home professionally cleaned will make a world of difference and worth it in the long run.
An unexpected problem There is nothing worse for a viewer than turning up to find there is a significant issue with a property which they were not aware of such as a structural defect, a problem with something in the neighbourhood or compromised accommodation. Speak to your agent about maintaining compliance with Consumer Protection Regulations, as this will allow viewers to be more trusting and willing to discuss the issues and the available solutions.
An overzealous vendor It is common for a vendor to want to take part in the viewing or show off their DIY aspects of the property. However, vendors being present at viewings may not always be a good thing. Take a step back and let your agent do the work, it is their job after all and you will thank them later.
Add warmth underfoot Cold feet can offset any amount of warm blankets and cosy clothes, so make use of large, fluffy rugs in strategic spots around the home. Whether it’s to protect bare feet from tiles or to break up an expansive room with a pop of colour, opt for large area rugs that cover plenty of surface area to completely transform your room.
Style up a bookshelf Putting your favourite books on display is a cost-effective way to cosy up your home. No matter what aesthetic you’re going for, match up your book colours to the theme and personalise with a few pieces of décor relating to the books, a cosy candle and perhaps a string of fairy lights.
Accentuate the fireplace Now that the fireplace is back in use, draw your guest’s attention to the cracking flames by styling the mantle area. Consider things like ornate vases, seasonal displays, and outdoor foliage to really bring the outdoors in. Finding pieces that coordinate with the rest of the room will inject some personality into your space.
Choose a rich colour palette For a warm but versatile colour scheme, focus on rich and nuanced tones like earthy coral and burnt sienna. Autumnal colours lend both sophistication and warmth to a home, and they won’t feel out of place come summer if used as accents.
Enticing scents The right scent can make you feel relaxed, calm, and right at home. This season is well-known for hosting some of the most popular scents on the market; fall in love with ginger, apples, cinnamon, cranberry, pecan and many more. To evoke feelings of cosiness, choose candles that are made with natural wax and essential oils and avoid coloured candles that are often made with toxic pigments.
Keep the heat in Tactful design is important for keeping your home warm in the winter. For example, you could rearrange your furniture so that radiators aren’t been trapped, and heat is able to spread more evenly around the room. Double and triple glazing is also a great way to tackle the draughts and cut them off at the source, while also saving some of the energy and money it takes to heat up your home
Get your finances in order It’s important that you get your finances in order as your credit score will have an impact on your mortgage options. Make sure you pay all your bills on time and avoid making any bigger purchases around that time. Speak to a professional to get advice about how much you can afford. Don’t forget that there are lots of other costs attached to buying a property, such as solicitor’s fees, stamp duty and home insurance. When these all add up, you might reconsider the price range of properties you’re viewing.
Take the time to decide what you want Take time to view different properties and create a list of what you want your new home to include in the process. Divide your wish list into must-haves and things you can compromise on. This will help you to avoid making hasty decisions and get you thinking in detail about your ideal home. Be realistic though, and ensure your list is appropriate to your budget.
Get to know your local agents A good estate agent should be well-informed and able to answer questions not only about the property but also the area you are moving into. Cast your net wide and visit a number of agents in the town. Make sure you meet them face-to-face and explain in detail what your requirements are - this will make them remember you and think of you when a suitable property comes on the market. Also be proactive and keep an eye on newly listed properties on their website and different online portals as great homes tend to get snapped up quickly.
Be flexible Whilst it’s good to have a list of do’s and don’ts, it’s important to remain flexible. You could miss out on a perfectly suitable home because it’s located three miles out of your desired area or the bedroom doesn’t have a walk-in wardrobe. Be open-minded when viewing different properties and think outside the box – with a little creativity you can do some wonderful things with the décor of a house or the look of a garden.
Are you willing to invest in renovations? Unless you’re specifically looking for a project, buying a property that needs renovation might not be the right step for you. Purchasing a fixer-upper can be a risky investment and you could end up with a money pit. If you do decide to buy a home in need of work, it’s advised that you get a thorough inspection to get a realistic overview of the property’s conditions. If possible, opt for an examination after a rainy day that will assess the state of the foundations and basement.
Learn more about your prospective home So you’ve found your dream home and you’re eager to make an offer. Before you progress to the next step, make sure you learn as much as you can about your prospective new home. Find out how long it has been on the market, ask to see the utility bills and hire a surveyor to inspect the condition of the property. It’s a good idea to get to know the area as well to get a feel for it. Is there a convenience store nearby? What schools are in the catchment area? What is your local pub or café like? These are all important aspects of day to day life that might influence your decision to make an offer.
Get a good solicitor on board As a first-time buyer, you will want to search for an experienced, trustworthy solicitor to manage Stamp Duty charges, deal with Land Registry and draw up and explain contracts. Avoid using the same solicitor as the sellers to minimise the possibility of a conflict.
Don't be afraid to negotiate The price of the property is rarely set in stone and the vendors are often willing to negotiate. If the property needs some work or your surveyor revealed any defects, use this as an argument to agree a more affordable price. You can use your estate agent to do this for you, however, as a buyer you will be the one making the final decision and should be in control at all times.
Don’t feel pressured Buying a house is possibly one of the biggest purchases of your life so it’s important you take time when making important decisions. It can sometimes feel like you’re under a lot of pressure to buy straight away but if you don’t need to move immediately then shop around. It’s likely you will be living in the house for years to come and it’s essential that you feel comfortable and happy in your surroundings.
Be patient The whole process might take longer than you originally anticipate. It’s a good idea to focus solely on house hunting so you don’t overwhelm yourself. Juggling other big decisions, such as organising a wedding or planning to have a baby, whilst buying your first home can put a huge strain on your life and take all the fun out of the process. Buying your very first home is a big step in every person’s life and should you be remembered fondly.
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