Tag: estate agents in Berkshire

Posted on

How to Have the Perfect Viewings When Trying to Sell Your Home

If you’re preparing to bring your home to market this year, it’s well worth mastering the art of the perfect viewing. A well-executed viewing can make all the difference when it comes to achieving a successful sale and the best possible offer.

At Fisher and Partners, we know that viewings are one of the most crucial steps in the selling process. Most buyers won’t make a commitment without seeing the property in person, so the experience they have during their visit really matters.

Yet despite its importance, the viewing appointment is often overlooked. Some sellers simply open the door and let buyers roam freely. Others go the opposite way, offering an enthusiastic guided tour that ends up overwhelming rather than enticing.

The truth lies somewhere in the middle. While a perfect viewing won’t convince someone to make an offer on a home they’re not interested in, it can enhance the experience, leave a memorable impression, and tip the balance for buyers who are on the fence.

Here are a few simple tips to help you perfect the process:

1. Plan a Route with Intention

Think about the journey you want your buyers to take through your home. Guide them in a way that shows off your property’s best features, whether that’s a sun-drenched kitchen, a cosy reading nook, or a beautiful garden view. Try to end the tour in the space that has the most visual or emotional impact. First impressions matter, but the final impression tends to linger.

2. Ease the Pressure

It’s natural to feel excited (or even a little anxious) during a viewing but avoid the temptation to ‘sell’ too hard. Think of it like a premium retail experience: if a shop assistant is too pushy, you’re likely to make a quick exit. Your home is the product here, and a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere will allow viewers to take it all in without feeling uncomfortable or rushed.

3. Give Them Breathing Space

After your initial guided tour, give prospective buyers some time to explore on their own. This extra space helps them process what they’ve seen and imagine their own lives unfolding in the space. A second walk-around also gives them the chance to revisit areas of interest without distraction.

4. Be Mindful of What You Say

It’s completely normal to fill silences with chatter, especially when nerves kick in. But during viewings, less is often more. Keep conversation light and focused on the property. It’s not necessary to share personal stories or minor historical issues like that old roof leak from a decade ago (especially if it’s long since fixed). Allow the home to speak for itself.

Ultimately, buyers aren’t there to get to know you—they’re trying to imagine themselves in the space. A calm, confident presence and clear, thoughtful answers to any questions are all that’s needed.

If you’d rather leave the viewings to the professionals, that’s exactly what we’re here for. Our experienced managing partners are experts in crafting exceptional viewing experiences and will handle every detail on your behalf.

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 will set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

Posted on

Navigating Uncertainty: What Global Shifts Mean for the UK Property Market

At Fisher and Partners, we believe that knowledge is empowering, especially during times of uncertainty. As global headlines evolve rapidly, from renewed US tariffs under President Trump to the shifting stance of central banks on interest rates, it’s understandable that sellers and buyers are asking: how does all of this impact the UK property market?

While the world may feel unpredictable at times, the housing market here in Berkshire continues to demonstrate its long-standing resilience and appeal.

Let’s explore why.

Tariffs and the Global Ripple Effect

The recent introduction of new US tariffs has created ripples across global financial markets. While these measures don’t directly touch the UK housing sector, they do influence investor sentiment, global trade confidence, and currency valuations, especially the pound.

If sterling weakens in response to international uncertainty, UK property, particularly high-quality homes in sought-after areas like Berkshire and the home counties can look increasingly attractive to overseas buyers. We often see this ‘safe haven’ effect when global markets grow more volatile.

That said, the primary drivers behind a move, relocation for work, downsizing after retirement, or upsizing for family needs, remain deeply personal and consistent. The global noise rarely changes those life decisions; it simply shapes the timing and approach.

Interest Rates: A Shift in the Wind

Alongside geopolitical changes, we’re also seeing a softening tone from central banks. Although the immediate need for dramatic rate cuts has cooled slightly, the broader trend still leans towards lower interest rates over the coming months.

We expect to see mortgage markets become more competitive this summer, with lenders adjusting rates and products to reflect a gentler economic outlook. That’s good news for buyers, as improved affordability can bring more confidence into the market and more people through your front door.

For sellers, this creates a more active and supported buyer pool, helping to underpin pricing in the medium term.

A Pinch on Supply and the Push for Policy Support

Where there’s opportunity in demand, there’s often challenge in supply.

Falling rates and strong investor interest won’t make it any easier for the government to hit its already ambitious housebuilding targets. Recent planning reforms are a step in the right direction, but unless paired with targeted support, such as incentives for first-time buyers or affordable housing providers, it’s unlikely we’ll see rapid progress in new home delivery.

This pressure on supply continues to reinforce the long-term value of established homes in well-connected, lifestyle-rich areas like those we serve.

Our Perspective: Clarity, Not Chaos

At Fisher and Partners, we’ve always believed that during periods of uncertainty, you don’t need more noise, you need clarity.

That’s why we offer a bespoke, one-to-one service with a senior managing partner who knows your local market inside and out. We don’t pass you from person to person. We don’t juggle dozens of properties at once. We deliver tailored advice, expert marketing, and honest guidance because that’s what our clients deserve.

Whether you’re relocating, retiring, or just ready for a change, our job is to make the process as smooth, informed, and rewarding as possible.

Thinking of Selling Your Home?

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 will set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.