Are you looking to sell your home in 2023? Take a look at the top property trends buyers are looking for in 2023…
Georgian gems The neo-classical stylings of these stucco-fronted homes are part of what makes them so timelessly elegant. Georgian homes are instantly recognisable; it could be the iconic rigid symmetry or the perfect proportions and beautiful sash windows – whatever it is, it’s here to stay..
Gargantuan gardens
The pandemic-induced ‘race for outside space’ is yet to cease, and with more people working remotely than ever, large gardens are unlikely to go out of style any time soon. Following last year’s record summer, our outdoor areas are becoming more integral to the way we entertain, rest and retreat. As such, large and medium-sized gardens will remain highly coveted in 2023 and beyond.
Cottagecore ‘Cottagecore’ is a term coined by the internet which refers to a simpler, more traditional way of living – ideally by residing in a cottage-style home in a rural location. This viral phenomenon of abandoning the modern world in favour of a more natural setting has managed to yield some influence over property trends. Young people often seek a big change in lifestyle when it comes to moving house, and after growing up in high-tech environments, it’s understandable that nostalgic countryside scenes and cosy, rustic interiors might be appealing to this demographic. With the next generation of first-time buyers preparing to enter the market, Tudor-style thatched roofs, exposed timber frames and sweeping natural landscapes are becoming trendier for those looking to move out of the city.
Arts and Crafts
Although it’s difficult to place an umbrella over such a varied style, many Arts and Crafts style homes share similar traits. From the structural authenticity of exposed beams, strong posts and rafters to the charming simplicity of open floor plans, smooth surfaces and native materials; these homes are endlessly distinctive. The movement dates all the way back to the 19thcentury, but it is still hugely influential today. Many people long to return to individuality in design as everything becomes more homogenised in today’s world.
Victorian Quirky and romantic, Victorian houses offer the perfect blend of elegance and modernity. With all their distinguishable architecture – from intricate crown moulding and door panelling to original tiled or wooden floors – a Victorian home can be made into an ideal 21st-century abode using contemporary stylings, while still maintaining original charm. This hybrid appeal of old and new is what makes these homes so desirable in today’s market.
‘Soft modern’ interiors
Although modernism has been a dominant force over interior trends for the past few years, many of today’s homeowners may start leaning towards a more relaxed style that offsets the cold, impersonal feelings that strict minimalism can evoke. ‘Soft modern’ is a concept that embraces contrasts, high gloss finishes and subtle accents, and we expect to see a lot more of this in the modern home as we move on from current trends.
Moving to a home in a new area is an exciting endeavour which can feel equally as daunting as it is exciting and while it is easy to get ahead of yourself when mapping out your new journey, no life-changing decision should come without careful planning and consideration. To help you make the right choice for you and your family, here are some of the key things to look for before settling into a new area...
A new lifestyle If you weren’t seeking a new lifestyle, you probably wouldn’t be relocating in the first place, so it's important to find a home and a setting which offers a better way of life, without compromising on your fundamental needs. For example, if you live in the city and you’re tired of the hustle and bustle, moving to a more rural setting could be the change-up you need. However, this doesn’t mean you should compromise on all the things you love, so make sure amenities and facilities including gyms, shops and even a stable Wi-Fi connection are not too far out of reach, especially if they are important to you and your family.
Employment opportunities Whether you’re relocating for work or you’re seeking a new avenue in your career, it’s important to research employment opportunities nearby. Even if you’ve already secured a job in your new location, there should be an opportunity for growth or change further down the line if you wish to feel satisfied and secure in your new home and workplace. Ensure you leave room for career flexibility, especially if you don’t plan on relocating again.
Long-term potential
Regardless of whether you’re planning to find your ‘forever home’, the key is to think long-term and find a property that has enough space to accommodate your ever-changing needs and is likely to grow in value over the years. Before you move to somewhere new, make a list of all the things you wish to accomplish in your new home. This can help with long-term planning and give you a better idea of how the new location will fit into your long-term goals.
Room for growth Whether you’re looking for more or less, space should be a key deciding factor when relocating. If you’re downsizing, make sure there’s enough storage space for all the sentimental items you’ll be taking with you. Do you have children, or are you thinking of starting a family? If so, make sure your new home and location would allow the opportunity for family growth. Choose an area close to a good school, a family-oriented community and enough outdoor space for playing.
Feeling at home Your gut feeling shouldn’t be ignored, as only you can know where your future home should be. Can you imagine living there? Does the house feel right for you? Have you already pictured yourself walking around the area to grab shopping or lunch? Ultimately, you will know if the property and the local area feel right or not and if you’re unsure, refer back to your future plans and goals for guidance.
Selling your home can be surprisingly time-consuming and emotionally challenging. It is the single most valuable and personal asset you can put on the market, so it is important to take your time and make sure everything is done the right way. To help you avoid making any mistakes when preparing your home for a sale, here are some key things to consider...
Deep cleaning is a must
A thorough deep clean is absolutely necessary to attract buyers and you should target all the spots you might miss during your everyday clean-ups. Getting your home looking as fresh as possible will tell buyers that it has been looked after and that they won’t have to worry about undergoing any of their own large cleaning tasks upon move-in day.
Don’t let the house appear too ‘lived in’ Washing hanging up outside, dishes left on the rack, and blankets on the sofas are all subconscious signs that your home suits an average lifestyle when what you’re really trying to sell is a lifestyle which exceeds the buyer’s current one. Try to clear away items that aren’t in their right place, as this will leave more to the buyer’s imagination about what living in your home is like.
Don’t over personalise
It’s nothing personal, but items that you love in your home could be a distraction to others. Presenting the space as neutrally as possible will allow the buyers to envision themselves living in your home, rather than feeling like they are visiting someone’s property. This doesn’t mean you should clear everything away; picture how you would wish a fully furnished property to be presented to you, and go from there.
Don’t box everything up before taking photographs Unless it’s a brand-new home, most buyers will need to see some furniture arrangements to visualise living in the home. Furniture can give a room a purpose and plays to its strengths while also distracting from any weaknesses. Make sure your best furniture is on display and is looking at its best – this means fluffing and arranging pillows, polishing and dusting shelves, and setting up the dining table with finishing touches.
Don’t waste valuable space
Plenty of room is hugely attractive to buyers, which is why you should give all rooms a purpose and make them appear as though you use them frequently – even if you don’t.
Don’t block out the light
One of the worst mistakes you could make when presenting your home for a viewing is closing the blinds and curtains. Natural lighting can be your home’s best friend, as it reflects off of shiny surfaces and creates an illusion of expanded space, while also making the room brighter and airier. The views outside your windows are also important to buyers, so make sure they’re on full display to show every aspect that your home and its location have to offer.
Don’t skip the agent
It can be tempting to sell your home alone and skip any agent fees, but there are several risks involved and it’s important to note that there could be consequences when attempting to navigate the property market alone. Without an agent, you could risk encountering fraud or receiving offers much lower than your home’s true value. A good agent has your best interests at heart. They will help you set a fair and competitive selling price for your home, which will increase your odds of a quick sale. An agent will also have more experience negotiating home sales, helping you get more money than you could on your own. If any problems crop up during the process, an experienced professional will also be there to handle them for you.
Whether you are looking to relocate for work or you’re seeking out new horizons, packing up your belongings and waving goodbye to your friends and family can understandably feel daunting. Here are five tips for relocating in 2023 to help your move to a new location run as smoothly as possible.
Establish a budget
Moving to a new home comes with a substantial amount of short-term and long-term expenditure, especially if you’re relocating. It’s important to stay on top of your finances and budget for everything you’ll need ahead of time. It is possible you won’t need to buy everything at once, so be prepared to take things as they come, and always leave a little extra room in your budget in case of any unexpected costs.
Research your new location There will be so much to learn about the local area of your new home – from school ratings to nearby amenities – it can feel overwhelming at first. However, it will help you to adjust to your new home enormously if you invest some time into research before you arrive. Look online to find out as much as you can and consider asking questions on open forums and local Facebook groups, as this is a great way to get honest advice from residents and previous residents, and you may even meet some locals while you're at it!
Plan a visit to scope out your new location
There’s only so much you can learn about your new home online, and a visit to your new location before move-in day will give you the in-depth insight you might need for peace of mind. This could also be an opportunity to meet some of the neighbours, try out the local restaurants and bars, and get a good feel for the community.
Friends and family
Unless it’s a brand-new home, It’s quite possible that you won’t be seeing your friends and family as often as you’re used to, and this can be one of the hardest factors to adjust to when relocating. However, in this age of globalisation, a solid internet connection is all you need to stay in touch with your loved ones. It’s also a good idea to start planning out a few trips to your hometown at the start of the year so that you have ample time to make arrangements and book time off.
Make yourself at home
After all the hustle and bustle of travelling and moving, there will come a blissful moment when the door closes behind you and you are finally in your new home. Moving away can feel like your world has been tipped upside-down, so it’s important to make your new property a home and bring yourself closer to your loved ones with decorations and pictures that remind you of them. A new home can feel like a fresh start, and you might want to avoid clutter, but don’t forget all of the creature comforts that make you feel at home.
Most people like to step into the New Year with plans for a new life, which is why such an influx of buyers appears on the market this time each year. If you’re amongst the population of movers looking for a fresh new start, here’s how to get the ball rolling during this wonderful season.
Clear away Christmas clutter Buyers are looking for a fresh start, so make sure you box up all of your Christmas ornaments, take down the tree and store away the outdoor lights. January is still a cold and cosy period, so there’s no need to store away your winter blankets, cushions and comforting candles just yet.
Make your home look brand new
Now that the festive debris is out the way, it’s time for a deep clean. Have your house looking like a new year’s resolution by getting your flooring or carpets looking as untouched as possible, your gutters cleared of leaves and mulch from the winter, and your windows sparkling.
Get your home listed as early as possible
New year's resolutions are time-sensitive, and the further we get into the year, the more we lose our sense of urgency for change. You may also be able to achieve a better price by listing in the new year, as buyers keen for a fresh beginning are more willing to compete.
Offer a lifestyle
Buyers aren’t only looking for a change of scenery, they’re often looking for a change in lifestyle, and this only becomes more important in the new year. If your home has something great to offer, such as a home office or gym, an extension, or an exceptional garden space, be sure to pay attention to these areas and advertise their function in your listing.
Carry out last-minute repairs
If minor repairs have been nagging you all year long, now is the time to start fixing the place up so it’s ready to sell. Loose door handles, cracks in tiles and scuffed walls rarely go undetected by prospective buyers, and you’ll give yourself a better chance of a fast sale if you invest some time into fixing these things.
Get organised
At this time of year, many buyers will be looking for a space that feels organised and free of chaos, as they may be trying to find more balance and structure in their own lives. Make use of organised storage containers with labels, arrange miscellaneous items like throw pillows into a coherent pattern, and find a place to store away shoes and coats to keep the hallway space clutter-free.
Give your garden some TLC
Your garden may need a touch-up after the past few months of leaves, rain and ice, and while the temperatures won’t be shifting anytime soon, buyers will want to see how your garden holds up in winter. It’s a good idea to take your outdoor furniture out of storage for viewings and give it a good clean-up, as this will help visitors to envision how they would personally use the garden space.
Now is the perfect season to welcome your friends and family into your home to share a meal you prepared for them. If you’re thinking about throwing your very own dinner party this year, here are our top tips to help get you started…
1. Stick to recipes you know It can be tempting to pull out all the stops and find a creative new recipe to dazzle all of your guests on the night, but this seldom goes well, especially if you haven’t practised beforehand.
Usually, the most satisfying meals are those that have been in your family for years and that you’ve had plenty of time to master. You could even put your own spin on these dishes if you want to create something a little more personal.
But if you really want to try out something new, make sure to choose something within the scope of your cooking skills, and conduct a test run before the party to ensure nothing goes wrong on the day.
2. Give your party a theme
To make your dinner party extra memorable, you can incorporate a theme for the evening. This could include a dress code, fun decorations and a menu full of quirky courses that your guests will love to dig into.
3. Decide on a seating arrangement
Part of the fun of a dinner party is meeting new people. As a host, you likely have friends from everywhere whether it be work, childhood or mutual friends. A well-thought-out guest list and seating plan is a great way to bring all of your favourite people together and for them to get to know each other.
4. Set the ambience
A few simple spruces make all the difference. Decorate your dinner table with fresh flowers, set a subtle mood with tea candles, hang fairy lights across the wall or ceiling and dim your lamps to help people relax. Don’t forget the music – keep it on a low volume setting and design a playlist that you know your guests will love.
5. Start cooking before the doorbell rings
Starting as early as possible will leave you with more time to sit with your guests. Even if this means setting up the portions ready for cooking. It is important to have all of your spices and ingredients out and organised beforehand, as searching for them at the last minute can easily lead to a stressful situation – and the last thing you would want to do, is pop out to the shops for a missing ingredient while your guests are waiting.
6. Make your guests feel at home
Make sure you welcome each guest, let them know where your bathrooms are, and accompany them to hang up their coats and scarves. It is also a great idea to offer them a beverage upon arrival to keep things flowing nicely, rather than having to pour out drinks all at once when everyone has arrived. If you’re hosting a number of friends and family members who haven’t met yet, take some time out to introduce people and get the conversation started before everyone is seated.
7. Serving the dishes
Decide how you would like to serve your dishes beforehand. If you have courses made up of multiple components or if you’ve chosen several different options, it could be a good idea to serve up your dishes in the centre of the table so your guests can help themselves to their liking. If you’ve chosen a set menu for everyone or if you’ve catered to some guests’ dietary needs, you may be better off serving their plates ready.
8. Enjoy the meal with your guests
Something in the kitchen might be calling you, or glasses may need topping up, but you should make sure to switch off from your hosting for a moment and allow yourself to enjoy the meal with your guests. It is important to be present at the table and show your guests that it’s a pleasure to have them in your home, so spend plenty of time dining with them, engaging in conversation in-between courses.
9. Entertainment
Plan out a fun activity or discussion before dessert – it’ll give your guests time to make some room and you can spend even less time in the kitchen between courses. Most dinner party games require nothing more than a pen and paper, so keep things relaxed and let the fun and laughter come naturally. This is also a good way to keep guests at the table if you’ve prepared a showstopping dessert that you want to be enjoyed in the dining room.
10. Clean up before bed
Do yourself a favour and get cleaned up before going to bed. It’s better to end the night with a clean kitchen than to wake up to a messy one.
Join me as i meet William Davey from Milecross financial to discuss the trials and tribulations of getting a first time buyers mortgage in 2022. You will find some useful tips in how best to prepare for going shopping for your first home and how to calculate how much you will have to spend!
.jpg)
.jpg)
