Author: Marketing

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An Unexpected Red Flag to Watch Out for When Choosing an Estate Agent

If you’re preparing to put your property on the market, you’ll no doubt be considering which estate agent to instruct. Perhaps you’ve already had a few valuations and listened to different agents explain how they’d market and sell your home.

But amidst the promises and polished pitches, what should you really be looking for and are there any red flags to be aware of?

Most of us can sense a poor sales pitch a mile away. However, there’s one particular promise that might sound appealing but can actually work against you when selling your home: the claim that your property can be advertised online almost immediately.

At first glance, this may seem efficient and proactive. But in reality, rushing your home to market rarely delivers the best results.

Why speed isn’t everything

Exceptional property marketing takes time. Professional photography, carefully written descriptions, detailed floor plans, and where appropriate, virtual tours or video walkthroughs all need proper preparation. This isn’t a process that should be rushed, especially if you want to achieve the strongest possible sale price.

Think about it: you want your home presented in its very best light. That means photographs captured by a professional, not quick snaps taken on a phone. It also means styling and staging the property to highlight its lifestyle appeal. Done properly, these details elevate your listing, making it far more compelling to potential buyers.

If an agent rushes through this stage, the result is often uninspiring marketing that doesn’t do justice to your property and that can mean fewer viewings and lower offers.

What you should expect from your agent

A considered marketing approach. Your estate agent should take the time to prepare every aspect of your property’s launch, guiding you on how to stage your home and ensuring every image and piece of copywriting showcases its true potential.

The description, too, should go beyond a simple list of features. It should paint a picture of the lifestyle your home offers, inviting prospective buyers to imagine themselves living there.

Ultimately, a carefully planned and executed marketing strategy creates pride of presentation and, more importantly, positions your property to achieve its maximum value.

The takeaway

When choosing an estate agent, don’t be swayed by speed alone. Instead, look for the care, attention, and expertise that ensures your property is marketed to its absolute best. Selling your home is one of life’s biggest financial and emotional decisions, you deserve an approach that reflects that.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner today and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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Tips to Stop Your Property Chain Unravelling

If you’re selling a home while buying your next one, chances are you’ll find yourself in a property chain. With buyers above you and sellers below, every link has to hold firm for the move to go ahead smoothly. Unfortunately, the longer the chain, the greater the risk of delays or even collapse.

The good news? With careful planning and the right guidance, there are practical steps you can take to keep things moving.

Keep Communication Flowing

One of the most effective ways to keep a chain intact is simple: stay in touch. Make sure you’re regularly speaking with your solicitor, estate agent, and mortgage broker. Quick responses and regular updates can prevent small issues from snowballing into major delays.

Choose Buyers (and Sellers) Carefully

Serious buyers will already have a buyer for their property, a mortgage agreed in principle, and a solicitor ready to act. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and rely on your estate agent to do the due diligence. A little extra vetting up front can save you headaches later on.

Consider Serving a Notice to Complete

If contracts have been exchanged but your buyer is dragging their feet, your solicitor may advise serving a notice to complete. This sets a firm deadline (usually ten days) for them to finalise the deal or risk losing their deposit.

Break the Chain

Sometimes the safest way forward is to reduce the chain altogether. Moving into temporary accommodation or renting short-term can give you the flexibility to proceed with your sale. In some cases, the added buying power you gain may even outweigh the short-term costs.

Negotiate on Price

If a chain is stalling over money, speak with your agent about whether a small compromise could unlock the situation. A modest reduction, shared fairly across the chain, can sometimes hold the deal together and prevent a collapse.

Explore a Bridging Loan (with Care)

If all else fails, a bridging loan might be an option. This allows you to borrow against your current property to move forward with your purchase. However, as this can be a costly solution, it’s usually best considered as a last resort.

At Fisher and Partners, we know how stressful a broken property chain can be. That’s why we’re here to guide you at every stage, helping you navigate the challenges and keep your move on track.

👉 If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner today and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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5 Easy Steps to Prepare Your Home for Viewings

Selling your home is a big step, and it’s natural to want everything to go as smoothly as possible. One of the most important parts of the process is preparing your property for viewings. The way your home looks and feels during a viewing can have a huge impact on how quickly it sells – and at what price. With a few simple steps, you can make sure your property is shown at its very best.

1. Declutter

Less really is more when it comes to viewings. A clean, open space helps buyers imagine themselves living in your home. Try to reduce personal touches such as family photos, collections, or surplus furniture. Creating a sense of space and simplicity allows potential buyers to see the full potential of each room.

2. Repair

Buyers are often put off by obvious maintenance issues. Take the time to fix anything that’s broken – whether it’s a leaky tap, a cracked tile, or a sticking door. Small repairs can make a big difference in giving buyers confidence that your home has been well cared for.

3. Refresh with Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform a space. Neutral tones work best, as they create a blank canvas that appeals to the widest audience. A light, modern finish can instantly make your home feel brighter, more spacious, and move-in ready.

4. Stage with Style

Staging doesn’t have to mean hiring furniture or redesigning every room. It’s about presenting your home in its best light. Simple, tasteful décor and thoughtful touches can make each room feel warm, welcoming, and aspirational. Remember, you’re not just selling a house – you’re selling a lifestyle.

5. Deep Clean

Nothing says “well-loved home” like a spotless finish. From sparkling windows to gleaming floors, a professional deep clean can help your property shine. Buyers will find it easier to fall in love with a home that feels fresh and meticulously cared for.

At Fisher and Partners, we believe the viewing stage is one of the most powerful opportunities to capture buyers’ interest. With the right preparation, you can make a lasting impression and secure the best possible sale for your property.

👉 If you’re thinking of selling, we’d be delighted to provide you with a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner today to arrange a time to chat – we’d be delighted to hear from you.

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Meet Antonietta Burton: Fisher & Partners’ New Managing Partner for Ascot

At Fisher & Partners, we’re passionate about pairing local insight with exceptional client care. That’s why we’re delighted to introduce Antonietta Burton as our new Managing Partner for Ascot.

With over 15 years of expertise in client relationship management and business development, Antonietta has built a reputation for delivering an exceptional, highly personalised service. Known for her client-focused approach and strong communication skills, she’s passionate about guiding buyers and sellers through every step of their property journey with professionalism, care, and trust.

Living in Warfield with her husband and young sons, Antonietta is deeply rooted in the community she serves. She enjoys practising Qigong, Pilates, and exploring all things wellbeing, further strengthening her connection to the local area.

Now, as part of Fisher & Partners, Antonietta is combining her wealth of experience with a deep understanding of Berkshire to provide homeowners with a bespoke, hands-on service designed to achieve outstanding results.

We caught up with Antonietta to hear more about her passion for the Berkshire property market, her commitment to client care, and what excites her most about being part of Fisher & Partners.

Can you tell us a bit about your professional background, Antonietta, and how you got started in property?

My career has been spent at large corporate organisations in client focused roles. Prior to entering the property sector, I spent 15 years at BDO, latterly in the sales and business development team.  I have always enjoyed speaking to clients, understanding their requirements and building successful working relationships. Becoming an agent felt a very natural career move. It will enable me to utilise my professional skills in a sector I am passionate about whilst helping my clients achieve the next chapter of their lives in a new home. 

What’s your personal connection to Ascot and the surrounding area?

I’ve lived in the local area for over 10 years with my husband and two young boys, so having access to excellent cafes and coffee on Ascot High Street whilst ferrying them across town to school or football camps whilst is perfect for me! We’ve built wonderful connections within the local community over the years and I’m looking forward to building more through Fisher & Partners.

In your view, what makes Ascot such a great place to live or invest in property?

It’s not only the allure of the fabulous properties that are all around the area, it’s the access to fantastic facilities, schools, open spaces and of course the buzz of having the racecourse, and all the exciting events hosted there, on your doorstep. With the M3 and M4 close by, direct trains to London and Heathrow only a 20 minute drive, the location is ideal. You get to enjoy the rural feel of a Berkshire town, without being far from excellent commuter links. For me though, I love the High Street as it gives me a chance to be part of a community and it’s a focal point for meet-ups.

What kinds of buyers or homeowners do you think Ascot particularly suits?

The properties available in Ascot and the surrounding areas are so varied and I think the town offers everything required, whether you are a young family, a busy professional or you are looking for a slower pace of life in a town that has a strong community feel. 

What drew you to join Fisher and Partners, and why does the agency stand out to you?

I knew straight away that Fisher and Partners were aligned with my core values and aspirations, giving me complete freedom to run my business creatively and professionally. Most importantly, I saw their potential and vision to break away from the traditional estate agency model in their bespoke approach and state of the art systems. Selling a property is an emotional process, so being part of an agency with such highly experienced and professional agents made the difference for me and will ultimately do the same our clients.

What kind of service do you hope to offer clients, and what can they expect when working with you?

A bespoke service that is on your terms and at your speed with an agent that is supportive, driven and passionate. Understanding your requirements and expectations is key to making our relationship a successful one. I will be your main point of contact throughout the process and will give you the comfort and confidence that your property goal will be achieved.

If you’re thinking of selling in Ascot, or the surrounding villages, Antonietta would love to help. Get in touch today for a no-obligation chat about your next move.

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Different Rooms Found in Luxury Properties and How You Can Add a Touch of Luxury to Your Own Home

Once you have the essentials such as a kitchen, dining room, living space, bedrooms and bathrooms, what else could a home possibly need? In larger, more luxurious properties in Berkshire, the answer is often extra rooms that go beyond the expected. These additions are what give a property its sense of exclusivity and elevate it above the ordinary.

As homes increase in size, design naturally leans towards more rooms rather than simply expanding existing ones. Few properties, even at the very top end, are completely open plan. Instead, the sense of scale is reflected in the number and variety of dedicated spaces.

If you have a spare room or you are considering how best to present your home for sale, here are some of the most sought-after “extra” rooms we see in luxury properties.

Cinema Room

Create a private screening space with blackout walls, plush recliners and a projector for the ultimate film nights.

Home Gym

No queues for equipment, no commute, and a motivating space tailored to your fitness routine. A home gym can also be a strong selling point when you list your property.

Home Office or Study

With remote working now the norm, a dedicated study adds both practicality and prestige. Think bespoke shelving, a statement desk and a calm, productive environment.

Spa or Pool

From a private indoor pool to a hot tub retreat, spa-style amenities are the hallmark of true luxury living.

Equestrian Facilities

For horse lovers, on-site stables are the ultimate convenience and lifestyle statement. Properties in Berkshire with equestrian land remain highly desirable.

Workshop or Hobby Room

Whether for restoring classic cars, fine woodworking, or creative projects, a tailored space brings passion projects to life.

Children’s Playroom

In larger homes, these are not just “toy rooms” but often function as second living rooms designed around family life.

Dressing Room or Beauty Suite

Walk-in wardrobes, vanity lighting, and mirrored walls transform getting ready into a daily luxury.

Private Bar

Ideal for entertaining, a home bar brings sophistication and flair to dinner parties or evening drinks.

Adding Luxury to Your Home

Even if your home does not boast sweeping grounds or multiple wings, transforming an underused space into something special can make everyday living more enjoyable. If you are thinking about selling, it can also help your property stand out in the market and attract higher-value offers.

Ready to Sell Your Home in Berkshire?

If you are looking to sell your property, we would be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner today and we will set up a time to chat. At Fisher and Partners we specialise in providing a bespoke, service-led approach to selling homes in Berkshire, and we would be delighted to hear from you.

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Smart Home Technology for Homes – Not Just for the Tech-Savvy

Technology can simplify our lives, help with daily tasks, and sometimes even bring a little joy. Today, smart home gadgets are accessible to nearly everyone, even if you don’t consider yourself ‘tech-savvy’.

If you’ve avoided technology in the past due to frustrating gadgets, there’s good news. Modern devices are intuitive, user-friendly, and designed to make everyday life easier.

Why Smart Home Technology Matters

  • Efficiency: Save time on routine tasks.
  • Comfort: Control your home environment from anywhere.
  • Security: Keep your home safe and monitor activity remotely.
  • Enjoyment: Enhance daily life with convenience and fun features.

Even if you’ve struggled with technology in the past, today’s devices are much easier to use. Let’s look at some practical options.

Smart Devices to Make Home Life Easier

1. Robot Vacuums
Keep your floors clean without lifting a finger. Robot vacuums run on schedule, clean efficiently, and return to their charging points automatically.

2. LED Lightbulbs
Control your lighting via smartphone apps. Turn lights on and off, adjust brightness, and even change colours to create the perfect ambiance.

3. Wireless Speakers
Stream music throughout your home or enjoy immersive sound for movie nights. Systems like Sonos make audio effortless and high-quality.

4. Doorbell Cameras
Affordable and highly practical, doorbell cameras act as CCTV. See who’s at the door, speak to visitors remotely, and avoid missed parcels.

5. Smart Thermostats
Ensure your home is warm and welcoming by controlling heating remotely. Perfect for busy schedules or chilly winter days.

6. Smart Locks
Never worry about lost keys again. Lock or unlock doors using your smartphone for convenience and security.

7. Voice-Activated Devices
Devices like Alexa help with timers, shopping lists, to-do lists, and even checking the weather, all via simple voice commands.

The Future of Smart Homes

Smart home technology continues to evolve, making life simpler, safer, and more enjoyable. While we’re waiting for devices that will wash, dry, iron, and fold our laundry, today’s smart devices already make a real difference in everyday life.

Thinking About Selling Your Home?

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to provide a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner at Fisher and Partners, and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d love to hear from you.

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Discover How Minimalism Can Transform Your Home and Your Life

Minimalism has become more than just a trend, it’s a movement. Perhaps you’ve come across the Netflix documentary or read articles about it. At its core, minimalism is about being intentional with what you allow into your home and life. In short, it’s about creating a minimalism home where every item has a purpose.

Put simply, it’s about removing the excess.

While that may sound like just a deep declutter, minimalism goes beyond tidying. A well-designed minimalism home can reduce stress and make your living space more functional. A cluttered home often leads to a cluttered mind, constantly remembering where things are, or worse, realising you never needed them in the first place.

Minimalists make deliberate choices. They only keep what they truly need or genuinely love. No “just in case” drawers. No dinner sets that never leave the cupboard. Instead, they focus on what adds value to their daily lives, creating a minimalism home that feels calm and intentional.

The results can be surprising: a calmer mind, a more organised home, and even financial savings. Many who adopt minimalism report feeling a sense of clarity and peace. With fewer possessions, there’s less to clean, maintain, and worry about.

Of course, living a completely minimalist lifestyle isn’t for everyone. But taking a step towards being more intentional can benefit us all. Whether it’s simplifying your wardrobe, reducing duplicate items, or cutting back on impulse purchases, a little goes a long way in creating a minimalism home.

Perhaps the key takeaway isn’t about getting rid of everything, but rather ensuring your home reflects what truly matters to you. A space free of unnecessary clutter creates room not just physically, but mentally, for the things and people you love most.

At Fisher and Partners, we understand how powerful the right home environment can be. If you’re considering selling your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner and we’ll arrange a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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How to Host Viewings That Get Offers on Your Property

Selling your home isn’t just about the right asking price or the perfect brochure, although both matter. One of the most important moments in the entire process is the property viewing. It’s here that buyers connect emotionally with your home. That “feel” they get during the visit often determines whether they put in an offer or walk away.

At Fisher and Partners, we know that when viewings are handled properly, they can transform curiosity into commitment. So whether you’re leading the viewing yourself or your agent is taking care of it, here are a few professional tips to help you make a lasting, positive impression.

1. Make a Thoughtful First Impression

If you’re showing your home yourself, start as you mean to go on with a warm welcome. Buyers are stepping into someone else’s space, and that can feel a little awkward. Greet them with a smile, be open, and help them feel at ease from the moment they step through the door.

If you’re used to using the side entrance or back door, opt for the front door instead. It’s their first real look at your home and sets the tone.

2. Be Prepared Well in Advance

Rushing around with a hoover moments before the viewing starts creates tension for everyone. Aim to be ready at least 15 minutes beforehand. The house should feel calm, clean, and cared for, not chaotic. That sense of “readiness” shows your home in its best light.

3. Say Less, Let Them Feel More

It’s natural to want to point out every detail or chat away, but resist the urge. Give buyers space to absorb the atmosphere and imagine their life there. Let the home speak for itself. A quiet moment to take in the view from the kitchen window or to imagine their child playing in the garden can be more powerful than any sales pitch.

4. Save the Best for Last

Always aim to end the viewing in your strongest room. Whether it’s a light-filled lounge, a cosy snug, or a beautifully landscaped garden, leave viewers with a lasting emotional impression. It’s that feeling they’ll take with them, and often it’s what makes the decision.

5. Allow a Second Walkaround

If you’re comfortable, invite the buyers to walk around on their own after the guided tour. It gives them the chance to speak freely, take a closer look, and start picturing how they’d live there. If you’re nearby, you might even pick up useful feedback as they talk quietly amongst themselves.

6. Encourage a Second Viewing (But Leave Negotiations to Us)

As they leave, let them know it’s absolutely fine to come back for another visit. It often takes more than one look to make such a big decision. But a word of caution: don’t swap contact details with potential buyers. It might seem helpful, but it can complicate things. We’re here to handle all questions and negotiations, ensuring you get the best possible outcome with none of the stress.

A final thought: Viewings are your home’s chance to shine, to make that emotional connection that leads to a serious offer. A few simple changes to how you prepare and present your property can make a big difference.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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Thinking of Buying a Property for Airbnb or Short-Term Letting? Here’s What You Should Know

In recent years, “Airbnb” has become a household verb, much like “googling” something. With the growth of platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com, many property investors are exploring short-term letting as a potentially lucrative venture. However, while the returns can be attractive, it’s far from a passive income stream.

If you’re considering purchasing a property to use as serviced accommodation, here’s what to keep in mind before diving in.

1. Choose the Right Type of Property

The first, and perhaps most important, decision is selecting a property that fits the short-term letting market. Are you considering a charming countryside cottage perfect for weekend escapes, or a modern flat that caters to corporate travellers?

Think carefully about your ideal guest and research similar properties in the area. Look at nightly rates, availability calendars, and guest reviews to get a sense of demand and competition. A good fit between property and market is essential if you want to maximise occupancy and profit.

2. Is Your Property Truly ‘Rental Ready’?

Unlike traditional lets, short-term guests arrive expecting a fully equipped, hotel-standard experience, only more personal. That means you’ll need to provide everything from crockery and cutlery to linens, hairdryers, and Wi-Fi.

You may even be able to command a higher rate by including extras such as a dishwasher, iron, or even streaming services like Netflix. Just remember to budget accordingly. Fully furnishing and equipping a short-term rental is a considerable upfront investment.

3. Presentation and Promotion Matter

Successful short-term lets are all about presentation. High-quality, professional photography is a must. Your online listing is your shop window. Consider staging the home to reflect its intended audience and invest time into creating a compelling listing.

Bear in mind that listing your property on booking platforms isn’t free. Most sites charge service fees or commission, so factor these into your financial projections from the outset.

4. Who Will Manage It?

Each guest changeover requires fresh linens, a deep clean, and attention to detail. Depending on occupancy, this could be several times per week. Maintenance also needs regular attention, whether it’s topping up paintwork, fixing a leaking tap, or replacing a broken wine glass. Many owners choose to work with a professional management and cleaning team to help stay on top of it all.

5. Don’t Overlook Ongoing Costs

Running a short-term rental is, in many ways, like running a boutique hotel. You’ll still be responsible for utilities such as gas, electricity, broadband, council tax (or business rates), and potentially subscription services. These outgoings can add up, and unlike with long-term tenants, you can’t expect guests to be mindful of utility usage.

6. Know Your Tax Position

It’s important to speak with a qualified tax advisor to understand the implications of owning a short-term rental, especially if it’s not your primary residence. Tax treatment can vary, and proper planning can save you unexpected costs later on.

Bonus Tips to Streamline the Process

  • Create a guest manual with essential details like Wi-Fi codes, heating instructions, and local recommendations. It saves time and enhances the guest experience.
  • Standardise your cleaning process with a checklist for your team. This ensures every stay starts with a consistently high standard.
  • Stick to simple crockery and furnishings that are easy to replace, ideally from a reliable, budget-friendly supplier.
  • Consider using identical sets of linen and kitchenware to make replacements seamless and affordable.

Yes, short-term letting can yield impressive income figures. But it comes with significant responsibilities, ongoing costs, and the need for constant oversight. It’s worth asking yourself: do I have the time and energy to run this hands-on, or would a more traditional rental offer a better balance of return and simplicity?

If you’re exploring property investment or considering selling or letting a property, we’d be delighted to offer a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner today and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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What You Need to Know About Refurbishing a Period Property

For many, restoring a period property is more than a renovation project, it’s a passion. The charm, the craftsmanship, and the character of older homes hold a special kind of magic. Particularly in homes that may have lost some of their soul to 1970s and 80s upgrades, there’s a real joy in bringing back their original features and timeless elegance.

We’ve all seen those renovation journeys on television, an eager buyer takes on a run-down home, uncovering forgotten fireplaces, intricate cornicing, and the odd surprise that can stretch both budget and patience. While these stories make for excellent viewing, the reality requires a steady hand, careful planning, and a good deal of resilience.

If you’re considering buying a period property to restore, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

1. Is the Property Listed?

One of the first things to check is whether the property is listed. In the UK, many historic homes are protected by law to preserve their architectural or cultural significance. If yours is listed, even minor changes, like windows, fireplaces, or doors, may require Listed Building Consent. Understanding the level of protection (Grade I, II*, or II) will help you plan accordingly.

2. Start with a Flexible Plan

Every good renovation starts with a clear plan. Think through your vision, prioritise key improvements, and consider the property’s existing layout and historical integrity. If the property is listed, speak with your local authority early, gaining approval for changes can take time. Importantly, remain flexible. Period properties can throw up surprises once work begins, so adaptability is key to keeping momentum without compromising on quality.

3. Budget for the Unexpected

It’s wise to approach any renovation with a realistic budget and an ample contingency fund. Period homes, especially those that haven’t been touched in years, can hide expensive issues behind the plaster. Rotten timbers, outdated wiring, and damp can all become major considerations. Factor in a 10–20% buffer to avoid stress down the line.

4. Get a Comprehensive Survey

Before you commit, invest in a full structural survey carried out by a professional experienced in period buildings. This won’t uncover every issue (some problems only reveal themselves once work starts), but it will flag major areas of concern, like structural movement or roof issues and give you a clearer picture of what you’re taking on.

5. Respect the Charm and Character

What makes period homes so desirable is their individuality, original fireplaces, sash windows, ornate cornicing, and high ceilings. These are features worth preserving and celebrating. While modern upgrades can improve comfort and efficiency, thoughtful restoration will honour the building’s heritage and elevate its long-term value.

There’s something truly special about older homes. They tell stories, exude charm, and offer details you simply don’t find in modern builds. If you’re thinking about taking on the rewarding challenge of renovating a period property, we’d be delighted to help you find the right one.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.