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Why a Local Independent Estate Agent Is Your Best Choice When Selling Your Home

Selling your home is one of life’s most stressful experiences, and choosing the right estate agent can make all the difference. While national chains may seem like the obvious choice, local independent agents often provide a superior service. Here’s why:

1. Personal, Hands-On Support

Unlike corporate agencies where you may never speak to the same person twice, independent agents offer a more personalised service. You’ll often deal with the same expert throughout the process, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience.

2. Genuine Local Expertise

Local agents live and work in the community, giving them an in-depth understanding of the local market. They know the best way to price, market, and sell your home to the right buyers—something a national chain simply can’t match.

3. No Corporate Red Tape

Large agencies have rigid structures, where the person valuing your home may never be involved in the sale. Independent agents, often business owners themselves, are fully invested in achieving the best outcome for you.

4. A More Motivated Team

Corporate agencies focus on listing properties, often incentivising valuers to bring in more homes rather than sell them. Independent agents earn their success through completed sales, meaning they’re motivated to get you the best possible result.

5. Stronger Buyer Connections

Because they work closely within the local market, independent agents often have a network of potential buyers ready to view your home—sometimes even before it goes online.

Sell Smarter with a Local Expert

Choosing an independent estate agent means receiving tailored service, expert advice, and a committed team working to sell your home for the best price.

Thinking of selling? Get in touch with our local property experts today!

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Selling Property with Tenants: What You Need to Know

Thinking of selling your rented property but unsure how to navigate the process? Here’s a guide to help you weigh your options and make informed decisions.

The Challenge of Tied-Up Equity

As a landlord, you may enjoy the financial benefits of rental income, but the equity in your property can feel frustratingly out of reach. While increasing borrowing to release funds is an option, it comes with higher monthly costs. For many, selling the property is the best way to access that equity.

Key Considerations Before Selling

  1. Notice to Tenants
    If your property is occupied, you’ll need to decide whether to serve notice to your tenant. If you do, you’ll lose rental income during the sale process, which could last months.
  2. Selling with Tenants in Situ
    Keeping the tenant in place during the sale might maintain your income, but it limits your buyer pool to landlords, which may lower the sale price.
  3. Access for Viewings
    Selling with tenants requires their permission for viewings, which can complicate the process and deter buyers.

Balancing the Pros and Cons

Ultimately, selling with tenants provides a steady income but narrows the market. Selling vacant allows broader interest but may leave you covering costs while it’s on the market.

If you’re considering selling, contact our team today for expert advice and access to landlord buyers. We’d be delighted to assist you.

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Action Steps to Get Your Home on the Market Quickly This New Year

With the decorations packed away and the kids back at school, now is the perfect time to focus on selling your home. If moving house is one of your New Year’s resolutions, follow these steps to get your property on the market quickly and effectively.

1. Declutter, Stage, and Style

As you tidy away the remnants of the festive season, take the opportunity to declutter and reorganise. Removing excess items will not only make your home feel more spacious but also create a clean slate for staging. Consider how your property will look in photos, buyers are drawn to bright, open spaces. A well-presented home helps buyers envision themselves living there, which can increase interest and even boost offers.

2. Tackle Those DIY Jobs

Loose door handles, peeling paint, or unfinished DIY projects can give buyers the impression that your property isn’t move-in ready. These small issues can lead to tougher negotiations and lower offers. Use a weekend to tick these tasks off your list, giving your home that polished and well-maintained look that attracts serious buyers.

3. Understand Your Home’s Value

While the festive season may not have been the ideal time for a full property valuation, January is perfect for getting started. Start by getting an instant online valuation to get a ballpark figure. It’s quick, easy, and gives you a good starting point. At Fisher and Partners, our online valuation tool provides an accurate estimate in less than 60 seconds, giving you insight without the need for an in-person appointment.

4. Define Your Next Step

As you prepare to sell, take some time to consider what you’re looking for in your next home. Is it a family-friendly community with excellent schools? A cosy space for retirement? Register your preferences on our website and set up tailored “Heads Up” alerts. You’ll receive notifications about new properties that match your criteria, ensuring you don’t miss out during this active time in the property market.

5. Book Your In-Person Valuation

Once you’ve organised your home and gathered initial information, arrange a professional in-person valuation. At Fisher and Partners, our experienced managing partners offer a bespoke, one-on-one service. They’ll provide a thorough understanding of your property’s value, giving you the confidence to move forward. January is a particularly busy time for buyers, so launching your home on the market now ensures it will be seen by motivated house hunters.

Ready to Begin?

If selling your home is on your to-do list this New Year, let us help you get started. Visit our website to get your instant property valuation or register for personalised Heads Up alerts to find your next dream home. When you’re ready, contact your local managing partner to book your in-person valuation.

We’d be delighted to assist you with every step of your property journey, get in touch today!

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How Two Property Veterans Are Redefining Real Estate in Windsor: A Q&A with Sebastian and Nicholas

Since Nicholas joined us in July as the Managing Partner for Windsor, we’ve celebrated a string of successful property sales across his region. His dedication, expertise, and deep understanding of the market have been game-changers for the region.

But now, we’re taking things to the next level.

We’re thrilled to announce that Sebastian Stanford-Smith is joining Nicholas as our new Managing Partner for the Windsor region. Together, they’re bringing over 40 years of combined property expertise to the area. Think of it as having not one, but two seasoned property “dragons” on your side, working tirelessly to ensure every sale and purchase is a success.

To give you a behind-the-scenes look at how they work together and what makes them so passionate about Windsor, we sat down with Sebastian and Nicholas for a Q&A. Here’s what they had to say:

Q: What’s your background in real estate, and how did you come to work together?

Sebastian: I started my real estate journey back in 2002 with Hardings, one of the leading independent agencies at the time. After six years there, I moved to the corporate side with Hamptons, which is where Nicholas and I officially began working together in 2013. However, our story goes back further than that as we had crossed paths in the independent sector for years before joining forces.

Nicholas: That’s right! Between us, we’ve spent nearly 40 years working solely in Windsor. It’s a community we know deeply and love being part of. This year marks 21 years for me in the industry, and it’s incredible to think how much we’ve seen and done together.

Q: What keeps you passionate about the property market, especially in Windsor?

Nicholas: Windsor has a unique pull. I’ve lived, gone to school, and worked here for most of my life. The town is really special, with its historic charm, the castle and the Great Park, paired with its strategic location near London. It’s a place where you find an incredible mix of people: longtime locals and those moving in from areas like West London and Richmond. That diversity creates an energy that’s hard to replicate.

Sebastian: For me, it’s about building long-term relationships. I’ve had the privilege of helping clients move from flats to houses and then to larger homes as their lives evolve. Windsor’s a tight-knit community, so trust, integrity, and reputation are everything. The repeat business and personal connections we’ve built over the years are a testament to the service we provide.

Q: How do you differentiate yourselves from other agents?

Sebastian: It’s all about the personal touch. Unlike larger agencies where clients may deal with multiple people throughout the process, we offer a seamless, one-on-one service. The person you meet at the start is the same person who handles your viewings, negotiates offers, and progresses your sale through to completion.

Nicholas: That continuity is key. We pride ourselves on being there for our clients at every step and at any time, whether that is answering a call at 8 am or 9 pm on a Sunday. Our combined experience allows us to guide clients through the emotional and sometimes stressful journey of buying or selling a home with empathy and professionalism.

Q: What’s your approach to working together as a team?

Sebastian: Trust and communication are at the core of our partnership. Having worked together for so long, we know each other’s strengths and how to support one another. This allows us to bounce ideas off each other and tackle challenges with a balanced perspective.

Nicholas: Absolutely. We’re like a well-oiled machine! Clients often benefit from having both of us involved; two opinions, two sets of expertise, and twice the dedication. It’s a partnership that works well for us and also delivers exceptional results for our clients.

Q: What advice do you often give to clients preparing to sell their homes?

Nicholas: Preparation is everything. We always stress the importance of being ready before the property hits the market. That means instructing a solicitor early, organising paperwork and ensuring everything is in order.

Sebastian: Managing expectations is another big one. Whether it’s timelines, potential challenges or pricing, we work to make sure everyone is on the same page from the start. Every client’s journey is unique, so our approach is tailored to their needs and preferences, such as whether they prefer communication by phone calls, emails, or WhatsApp.

Q: Windsor’s property market can be challenging. How do you help clients navigate it confidently

Sebastian: It starts with experience. We’ve seen it all. The highs, the lows, and everything in between. We guide clients through the entire process and we have strong relationships with local solicitors and other professionals who share our commitment to exceptional service.

Nicholas: It’s also about efficiency. We know when to chase, when to prompt, and how to keep things moving. The process can be frustrating, but our goal is to make it as smooth as possible by staying proactive and keeping clients informed.

Q: What’s the current state of the Windsor property market?

Nicholas: Windsor is unique in that it offers a diverse range of properties. There are flats, townhouses and large family homes. It’s not a huge geographic area, but the variety is remarkable.

Sebastian: Stock levels are starting to rise, and January is a great time to get ahead of the spring rush. Sellers who list now can capture serious buyers before the market gets crowded. Windsor’s best features: its community, convenience, and connectivity, means demand remains strong across all price points.

Q: Any final thoughts?

Sebastian: I’m incredibly excited about what we’re building together. We’re doing something that no one else in the industry is offering, combining our experience, personal service, and a proper commitment to excellence.

Nicholas: Agreed. We’re not just colleagues; we are friends and that shows in how well we work together. We’re here to support our clients every step of the way, ensuring they get the best possible outcome and establishing long standing working relationships for many years to come.

If you’d like to speak with Sebastian or Nicholas about getting a personalised sales strategy for your home, or even just have a quick chat about the current market, don’t hesitate to get in touch. They’d be delighted to ensure you’re informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.

📞 Call Nicholas or Sebastian: 01753 303711
📧 Email us: windsor@fisherandpartners.com
🌐 Visit us online: www.fisherandpartners.com/windsor

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Understanding AML Checks: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Buying or selling a property is an exciting milestone, but it can also come with a few hurdles, such as navigating Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks. While it might feel like unnecessary red tape, these checks play a vital role in ensuring the security and integrity of property transactions.

Here’s everything you need to know about AML checks and why they’re essential in today’s real estate market.

What Is AML?

AML stands for Anti-Money Laundering, a set of regulations designed to prevent criminals from using property transactions to launder money. According to UK legislation:

“Money laundering is how criminals change money and other assets into clean money or assets that have no obvious link to their criminal origins.”

In the property market, this could involve:

  • Purchasing property with illegally obtained money, then selling or letting it to create legitimate funds.
  • Using complex company structures to obscure ownership or the purpose of a transaction.
  • Fraudulent transactions such as ghost lettings or staged mortgage scams.

Estate agents are legally required to carry out AML checks to validate buyers, sellers, and transactions. These checks protect the property market and give you peace of mind during your move.

What to Expect During AML Checks

For most people, AML checks are straightforward:

  • Identity Verification: You’ll need to provide a piece of photographic ID (e.g., a passport or driving licence) and a document confirming your address (e.g., a recent utility bill or bank statement).
  • Source of Funds: If paying with cash, you’ll need to show proof that the funds are in a recognised banking system.

Estate agents must also assess whether you could be vulnerable to coercion or fall under the category of a Politically Exposed Person (PEP). PEPs are individuals in positions of influence who could be at a higher risk of being targeted by criminals. If this applies to you, additional checks may be required.

Why Do AML Checks Matter?

Although it might seem like an inconvenience, AML checks are crucial. They help safeguard the property market from being exploited for illegal activities. While the likelihood of encountering money laundering in your property chain is low, these checks provide an added layer of protection for all parties involved.

What Do You Need to Do?

Every person named on the title deeds, or those who will be named if purchasing, must comply with AML regulations by providing:

  1. Photographic ID: Such as a passport or driving licence.
  2. Proof of Address: Such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.

Some estate agents conduct these checks manually, while others use digital services, which can be more convenient and may involve a small fee.

What Happens Next?

Once your AML checks are complete, you can proceed with your property transaction. However, note that your solicitor will likely repeat the checks during the legal process, even if your agent has already completed them. While this may feel redundant, it’s a necessary step to ensure compliance at every stage.

Ready to Make Your Move?

If you’re planning to buy or sell a property, understanding AML checks is just one part of the process. At Fisher and Partners, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Get a free property valuation here, or book a a personalised sales strategy that includes recommendations on how to make your next move seamless and stress-free.

Alternatively you’re welcome to contact your local managing partner to discuss your unique needs:
Ascot | Maidenhead | Sunningdale | Virginia Water| Windsor | Winkfield

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Top Tips to Make the Most of the New Year Rush If You’re Planning a House Move in 2025

The festive season is always a whirlwind, school commitments, staff parties, shopping for gifts, leaving little time for anything else. For those considering a house move, it’s natural to relegate that task to the “after Christmas” list.

But here’s something to consider: what if everyone else is thinking the same thing? This could lead to a crowded housing market come January, with many properties competing for attention. Fortunately, there’s a way to avoid the post-holiday rush and set yourself up for success.

Why the Festive Period Is Key for Property Listings

Every year, property websites report a surge in traffic immediately after Christmas. In fact, Boxing Day is often the busiest day on Rightmove, as prospective buyers use the downtime to browse listings. However, if sellers wait until mid-January to prepare their properties, they miss out on these eager buyers.

By preparing your home for sale before Christmas, you can take advantage of this prime window of opportunity, ensuring your property is among the first to catch their eye.

How to Get Ahead of the Competition

Here’s how you can make the most of the festive season while still enjoying the holidays:

  1. Book a Valuation Early
    Schedule your property valuation before the Christmas rush. This gives you and your estate agent plenty of time to plan a strategy for marketing your home.
  2. Prepare the Marketing Materials
    Arrange for professional photography, videos, and brochures before putting up your decorations. This ensures your property is showcased at its best, free from the festive clutter.
  3. Launch Strategically
    With everything ready in advance, your agent can launch your property to the market during the Boxing Day surge. You can relax and enjoy Christmas while buyers are discovering your listing.
  4. Stay Ahead of January Sellers
    By having your property live on the market over the festive period, you’ll reach motivated buyers before the influx of new listings in mid-January.

Enjoy Christmas Without the Stress

Imagine this: while you’re celebrating the holidays, attending nativity plays, shopping for gifts, and sharing meals with family, your property is already online, attracting attention from serious buyers. You’ll start the new year ahead of the competition, giving yourself the best chance of a quick and successful sale.

Ready to make your move? Contact your local managing partner at Fisher and Partners today for a free property valuation. Let us help you prepare for the new year rush and ensure your home stands out in the market.

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Take a Break This Festive Season: How to Pause Viewings on Your Property

Nativity plays, shopping, present wrapping, and staff parties. It’s all go in the run-up to Christmas. There is so much going on at this time of year. Preparing for viewings on your property, on top of everything else, could be enough to send you over the edge!

If your property is on the market for sale and you can see your diary filling up fast with the pre-Christmas festivities, you might be feeling overwhelmed, thinking that you simply couldn’t fit in any viewings from potential buyers. 

Nativity plays, shopping, present wrapping, and staff parties. It’s all go in the run-up to Christmas. 

There is so much going on at this time of year. Preparing for viewings on your property, on top of everything else, could be enough to send you over the edge! 

So what should you do? You want to sell your home and move in the new year, so you want as many viewings as possible, right? But how can you fit these viewings in?

When your diary is full of festive occasions, so is everyone else’s. Many buyers put a hold on their property search until the new year. Choosing to stop viewings and online searches until they have the bandwidth to view properties seriously and really consider their next move. 

If fewer buyers are looking for a property, then the likelihood is that there would be fewer viewing appointments anyway. So, why not take advantage of this and take a break yourself?

Many people feel they need to take their property off the market altogether to enjoy Christmas in peace. You don’t have time to clean your home and present it the way you like, and you have the tree and decorations up everywhere, which, although it makes your home lovely and cosy, will also make it feel smaller because there is extra stuff around. 

But did you know that you can ask your estate agent to place you on “do not disturb”?

This is not a withdrawal from the market, simply a pause on viewing appointments until the new year. Any viewing enquiries that come through the agents at this time can be told that the property is on hold until the new year, scheduling the viewing appointments for when things are not quite as hectic and you have the headspace to focus on selling your home.

Don’t worry that you’ll be missing out. In reality, most buyers have had their focus redirected to Christmas festivities, too, so they are not likely to be booking many viewing appointments. Serious buyers will wait until the new year and may even be relieved that you won’t be taking viewings from any other buyers.

Get in touch if you are on the market and want to take advantage of the Do not disturb marketing option. 

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Create the Perfect Outdoor Winter Wonderland at Home!

Get Creative and Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space This Winter

When the cold weather sets in, it’s easy to retreat indoors and let your garden hibernate until spring. But with a little effort and creativity, you can transform your outdoor space into a cosy, inviting winter wonderland that you’ll love spending time in, even when the temperature drops. Here are some ideas to keep your outdoor area functional and magical this winter.

Get Cosy

Stargazing doesn’t have to stop when summer ends. In fact, the long, crisp winter nights are ideal for gazing at the stars. Bundle up with a warm drink and head outdoors!

To keep things toasty, invest in a patio heater, which is surprisingly affordable and easy to set up. Alternatively, consider a cast iron, steel, or clay chiminea or wood burner. These compact heat sources not only provide warmth but also create a focal point for gathering family and friends.

If you’re feeling handy, why not build a fire pit? It’s a budget-friendly way to make your garden feel extra special. Add some cosy blankets, and you’ll have the perfect setup for toasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the winter sky.

Summer House? More Like Winter Retreat!

Summer houses aren’t just for the warmer months, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy your garden all year round. With options to suit even the smallest corners, they can be transformed into snug retreats for reading, hobbies, or just relaxing.

If you’re particularly crafty, consider upgrading your outdoor space further by building a workshop or studio. Whether it’s a place for painting, woodworking, or simply unwinding, a dedicated outdoor space can bring joy no matter the season.

A Winter Kitchen

Who says barbecues are only for summer? With a sturdy gas barbecue and a bit of shelter, you can enjoy outdoor cooking all year. Gazebos or canopies will keep you covered when the weather is less than ideal, making those winter feasts even more satisfying.

Love pizza? Install a wood-fired pizza oven for quick, delicious meals, even on frosty evenings. It’s a fun way to make the most of your outdoor space without spending too much time in the cold.

Light Up Your Garden

Winter nights can be dark and dreary, but the right lighting can transform your garden into a magical retreat. Fairy lights aren’t just for Christmas, drape them around trees, hedges, or fences for a soft, enchanting glow.

Solar-powered lights are a fantastic low-maintenance option. They’re eco-friendly, cost-effective, and will keep your garden twinkling no matter the season.

Make Your Winter Garden Shine

By adding warmth, light, and a few creative touches, you can enjoy your outdoor space throughout the colder months. From cosy fire pits to twinkling fairy lights, there’s no end to the ways you can create a winter wonderland right at home.

Ready to make your dream home a reality? Whether you’re looking to sell or searching for the perfect space to call your own, Fisher and Partners is here to help. Contact your local managing partner today for a free market appraisal—we’d be delighted to hear from you!

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Instantly Increase the Value of Your Home Without Lifting a Finger

House Name

Could a simple name make your home more valuable? According to Phil Spencer, of Location, Location, Location fame, it absolutely can! Naming your home could add thousands of pounds to its asking price without lifting a finger.

Why Do Property Names Matter?

In England, out of approximately 28 million registered homes, only 1.5 million have names. Historically, homes had names instead of numbers, but as towns expanded and more properties were built, a numbering system was introduced to bring order.

However, a name can evoke personality, history, and charm, transforming a simple house into a captivating home. For instance, “Rose Cottage” feels far more enchanting than “21 High Street,” conjuring up visions of roses around the door and a cosy countryside retreat.

Phil Spencer has noted that a carefully chosen name could add up to £5,000, or even more, to your home’s value. On the flip side, a poorly chosen or gimmicky name could knock as much as 20% off your property’s worth. Names like “Dunroamin” or “Dunmovin” might be fun but could deter serious buyers when it’s time to sell.

How to Name Your Home

If your house already has a number, adding a name is simple. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Adding a Name
    • You can add a name to your property without notifying anyone, as long as the number remains visible for Royal Mail and emergency services.
    • It’s good practice to inform your local council of the name addition.
  2. Changing an Existing Name
    • If your home already has a name and you’d like to change it, you must request approval in writing from your local council. Some councils may charge a small fee for this service.
  3. Choosing the Right Name
    • Be creative but mindful. Your home’s name should be unique to your area and should complement the property’s character.
    • Avoid names that could alienate buyers or seem overly whimsical.

Top House Names

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some of the most popular and timeless house names, as listed by House Beautiful:

  • The Cottage
  • Rose Cottage
  • The Coach House
  • The Lodge
  • Orchard House
  • Ivy Cottage
  • The Willows
  • Sunnyside
  • The Gables
  • Meadow View

These names suggest charm, elegance, and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect qualities to attract buyers.

Could Your Home Benefit?

For as little as £40, you could add a name to your property and potentially increase its value by thousands. Whether you’re renaming “Number 21” to something timeless like “The Old Rectory” or opting for a bespoke name that reflects your home’s unique character, this small investment could make a big impact.

Thinking of selling your home? We’d love to hear about your property’s name, or help you choose one that resonates with buyers. Contact Fisher and Partners for a free market appraisal today. We’d be delighted to help!

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Decided it’s time to sell your home? Here’s what to do next

sell your home

Thinking about selling your home? You’re not alone. It’s a decision that many homeowners ponder for about a year before diving in. That’s a whole twelve months of strategising, researching, and gearing up for the big task ahead.

Let’s face it, selling a property isn’t something we do every day. It’s a major life event that can feel overwhelming. The uncertainty of when it’ll sell, when you’ll move, how much you’ll get for it, and what your next move will be can certainly add to the stress. No wonder it takes time to psych ourselves up for it.

But fear not, we’re here to guide you through it all. Here are some tips to help you navigate the early stages of planning your sale:

First off, make the decision. Selling your home is a big deal, so take your time weighing up your options. Whether it’s outgrowing your current space or planning for the future, your reasons need to be solid.

Next, think about your future plans. Will you be buying another property, or considering a stint in rented accommodation? It’s worth pondering over now, even if you’re not quite ready to start house-hunting.

Now, let’s talk finances. Get a handle on your financial situation by figuring out your property’s value and how much equity you have. This will help you set a budget for your next move.

Once the numbers are sorted, it’s time to prep your home for sale. Remember the golden rule: declutter like there’s no tomorrow. A clutter-free space looks bigger and more appealing to potential buyers.

And finally, choose your estate agent wisely. Do your homework, arrange valuations, and find out about their marketing strategies. You need an agent who’ll go the extra mile to showcase your property and get you the best deal.

Need a hand with your property valuation? Whether you’re ready to sell or just exploring your options, our team of expert agents is here to help.

When booking a market appraisal with us:

  • We’ll assess your home’s condition, size, layout, features, and any unique selling points that could affect the value.
  • We’ll conduct a comparative analysis to determine a competitive and realistic market price.
  • We’ll discuss your property’s potential market value considering market trends, location, property condition, and unique attributes.
  • We’ll provide advice on potential improvements or staging tips to enhance the property’s appeal.
  • We’ll propose a marketing strategy tailored to the property’s features and target market.

Get in touch, and let’s make this journey smoother for you. We’d be delighted to support you.