Tag: Fisher and Partners

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Selling Your Home This Summer? Why July is One of the Best Times to List Your Property

Why July is a Prime Month for Sellers

July offers a perfect blend of warmer weather, longer daylight hours, and increased buyer motivation. Families are preparing for the new school year, professionals are planning relocations before autumn, and the market traditionally sees a surge in activity before the holiday lull in August.

If you’re considering listing, now is the moment to prepare and here’s why:

1. Buyers Are Motivated to Move Before Autumn

Many of our clients, especially aspirational families, are aiming to settle into their new home before the school term begins. That means they’re actively searching now and ready to move quickly.

2. Your Home Looks Its Best in Summer Light

Lush gardens, bright interiors, and beautiful exteriors shine in natural summer light. With professional photography and considered staging (which we handle for you), your home will stand out more than ever.

3. The Market Cools Off in August – Beat the Dip

Come mid-August, holidays and summer breaks slow down buyer activity. Listing in early July gives your property a window of peak visibility before that seasonal pause.

4. More Daylight Means More Viewings

Longer evenings allow for flexible viewing times, perfect for busy professionals or families juggling summer schedules. More flexibility means more eyes on your property.

How Fisher & Partners Can Help

At Fisher and Partners, we specialise in high-touch, service-led property sales across Berkshire. You’ll work directly with a senior managing partner who knows your local market inside and out, ensuring your home gets the attention and price it deserves.

Considering selling your home this summer?
We’d be delighted to offer you a free market appraisal and honest guidance on preparing your home for a successful July launch.

Contact your local managing partner today and let’s set up a time to chat. We’d love to hear from you.

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3 Common Nightmares to Avoid When Buying a House

When it comes to purchasing a home, the process can feel overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. At Fisher and Partners, we believe that informed decisions lead to smoother moves. Over the years, we’ve seen it all and we’re here to help you sidestep some of the most common challenges. Here are three pitfalls to look out for when buying your next home:

1. Be Cautious When Giving Notice

If you’re moving from a rental property into a new home, timing your notice to end your tenancy can be tricky. While it may be tempting to align your notice period precisely with your intended move-in date to save on rent, unexpected delays are not uncommon in the buying process.

Completion dates can shift, sometimes due to events entirely outside of your control, such as delays in the property chain or last-minute issues with releasing funds. The result? You may find yourself between homes.

Before giving formal notice, have an open conversation with your current landlord. In many cases, a flexible or rolling notice can give you the breathing space you need, should things take longer than expected. A little caution now can prevent a lot of stress later.

2. Triple Check All Your Costs

Buying a property comes with more costs than just the asking price and they can add up quickly. From solicitor fees and surveys to stamp duty, removals, and mortgage-related costs, it’s vital to budget accurately and allow for contingencies.

Unexpected extras, such as administrative charges, loan payoffs, or last-minute adjustments, can surprise even the most organised buyers. We recommend keeping a dedicated breakdown of all known and potential expenses, and having a financial buffer to accommodate any surprises along the way.

3. Don’t Underestimate Moving Day

Moving day can be unpredictable and often exhausting. Whether you’re handling the move yourself or hiring a removals team, preparation is key. Make sure you’ve accounted for potential delays, traffic issues, or miscommunications with movers.

Pack a separate ‘first-day essentials’ box containing key items like toiletries, chargers, snacks, important documents, and a change of clothes. You’ll thank yourself when the kettle’s on and the bed’s made — even if the Wi-Fi isn’t sorted yet.

Thinking of buying or selling a property?
At Fisher and Partners, we offer a bespoke, service-led experience designed to make your move as smooth and rewarding as possible.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to offer 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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Should You Accept Viewings From Buyers Who Haven’t Sold Their Own Home?

If your home has been on the market for a while, it’s completely natural to feel a little worn down by the cycle of viewings, hopes, and silence. You’re investing time and energy preparing your home, only to feel disheartened when no offer follows. So it’s fair to wonder: Is it worth letting buyers in if they still have to sell their own property?

At Fisher and Partners, we understand how personal and emotional the sales process can be. You’re dreaming of your next chapter, and each viewing feels like it might be the one to make it real.

Let’s talk through why turning down viewers who haven’t sold yet might not be in your best interest and how to manage these situations more effectively.

It’s About Momentum, Not Just Readiness

Not every buyer will be in a position to make an immediate offer. But that doesn’t mean they won’t be your eventual buyer. In fact, many serious buyers are actively preparing to sell because they’ve found the property they want, possibly yours.

And here’s the thing: people often move quicker when they fall in love with a home. If a buyer adores your property, they may accept a lower offer on their own home just to secure it. Or, they might have alternative funding options they haven’t disclosed upfront. You never truly know someone’s position until they’ve viewed and emotionally connected with your home.

You Could Be Turning Away the Perfect Buyer

Declining viewings from buyers who aren’t “ready” risks cutting off potential sales opportunities. If someone is truly motivated and inspired by your home, they’ll often take action to get themselves into a position to proceed. By not giving them a chance to view, you could miss out on someone who’s willing to move mountains to buy your home.

Remember: nobody can make an offer on a home they haven’t seen.

A Good Agent Filters the Time-Wasters

This is where having a proactive, service-led estate agency makes all the difference. At Fisher and Partners, we don’t show your home to just anyone. We carefully qualify each prospective buyer, checking their circumstances, financial readiness, and current property status, so you’re only spending time with viewers who are aligned with your goals.

Our managing partners guide every viewing, offering insights about who’s walking through your door, and why they might be the right buyer for your home, even if they haven’t sold yet.

Viewings Aren’t Just About Today – They’re About Planting Seeds

Sometimes, a viewing may not result in an offer today, but it lays the groundwork for interest down the line. Buyers who view without an offer on their own home often return once they’ve sold and with greater commitment.

And even if they don’t buy, they may recommend your home to a friend or colleague. You’re marketing more than a property, you’re making an impression.

In short, if you want to increase your chances of securing the right buyer, it’s worth being open to all serious interest, even if the buyer hasn’t sold yet. With the right guidance, these viewings can be valuable stepping stones toward your sale.

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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How to Tell if Your Property Viewers Are Genuinely Interested

Selling your home can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, full of hope, uncertainty, and sometimes, silence. One of the most frustrating parts? Not knowing whether a viewer truly liked your property or if they’re simply being polite.

At Fisher and Partners, we understand just how personal and stressful the selling process can feel. Each viewing is a potential turning point, so how do you tell when someone might be on the verge of making an offer?

Here are a few clear signs that suggest a viewer could be genuinely interested in your home:

1. They Ask to See Certain Areas Again

If a prospective buyer wants a second look at a particular room or part of the property, it’s almost always a promising sign. It means they’re imagining themselves living there and are taking the time to visualise how it could work for them, a strong step towards making a decision.

2. They Ask Detailed Questions

Total silence can often be a red flag. Buying a property is a complex process, especially when it comes to older homes or those with character. If your viewers are asking thoughtful, practical questions about the home, its systems, the neighbourhood or even your utility bills, that’s a strong indication they’re picturing life in the space.

3. Positive Body Language

Much is said without words. Subtle smiles, nods, or quiet exchanges between partners often signal interest. Watch how they move through the home, are they lingering in key rooms or picturing furniture placement? That’s the kind of behaviour we see from serious buyers.

4. They Ask About Your Moving Timescales

If a buyer isn’t considering an offer, they’re unlikely to be interested in your plans. So when someone starts asking about your onward journey or your ideal moving timeline, it usually means they’re considering how their plans could align with yours, which is a great sign.

Stay Objective – And Ask for Feedback

It’s human nature to see what we hope to see. But property feedback can sometimes surprise you. That’s why we ensure every client receives honest, thorough feedback after every viewing, so you’re never left guessing.

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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Simple, Smart Steps to Start Your Property Search

Beginning your search for a new home can feel like a daunting task. With so much to consider, from location and budget to lifestyle needs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At Fisher and Partners, we’re here to make that journey simpler and more rewarding. Here are a few straightforward tips to get you off to a confident start:

1. Give Yourself a Head Start

The earlier you begin your research, the more informed and prepared you’ll be. Ideally, start looking 6–12 months before you plan to buy. This gives you valuable time to understand what’s out there and how it aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.

2. Do Your Homework on Locations

Dive into the details of the areas you’re considering. Look at transport links, local amenities, green spaces, school catchments, and long-term value trends. The right location often makes all the difference when it comes to living well and investing wisely.

3. Clarify Your Finances Early On

Understanding your financial position from the outset helps focus your search. Use mortgage calculators to determine your borrowing capacity, and consider speaking to an independent advisor who can guide you through the options available.

4. Define Your Must-Haves

Whether it’s a home office, south-facing garden, or walking distance to a particular school, listing your non-negotiables will help you make clear decisions. Knowing what you’re willing to compromise on and what you’re not, keeps the search focused and productive.

5. Get Mortgage Pre-Approval

Having a pre-approved mortgage puts you in a strong buying position. It shows sellers you’re serious, ready, and financially equipped to move forward, which can be particularly useful in a competitive market.

6. Connect with the Right Estate Agent

Property portals are a good starting point, but they rarely tell the full story. Working with an experienced, well-connected estate agent gives you access to deeper local insight and often to properties before they ever hit the open market, in fact, nearly 40% of sales happen off-market.

At Fisher and Partners, our senior managing partners are embedded in the local community and work with a select number of clients at a time. This means you get a bespoke, highly responsive service that puts your needs first.

Ready to start your property journey?

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to offer 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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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.

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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.

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Working From Home? How to Create the Perfect Home Office

With more of us working remotely than ever before, the home office has become a true staple of modern living. Whether you’re in a period home in Windsor or a contemporary apartment in Ascot, creating a comfortable and productive workspace is key, not just for your workflow, but potentially for your property value too.

Here are our top tips to help you carve out a space that works for you.

1. Start With Space

It doesn’t matter if you have a dedicated room or just a corner of your living area, what matters is how you use it. Choose a spot that feels calm and has minimal distractions. Natural light is essential, so try to position your desk near a window if possible. Light, neutral tones on the walls and furniture can help create a sense of space and keep things feeling fresh and open.

2. Invest in the Right Furniture

Functionality should be your priority. A good-quality desk with sufficient space and storage is a must-have. A comfortable, ergonomic chair is even more important, especially if you’re seated for long periods. Think long-term comfort and support, not just aesthetics.

Don’t forget the tech essentials: a printer, strong Wi-Fi, and reliable hardware are all important. And if you regularly take calls, consider a separate work phone or dedicated line. It adds a layer of professionalism and helps you maintain healthy work-life boundaries.

3. Let There Be Light

Lighting is one of the most overlooked features in a home office, but it can have a huge impact on your productivity and wellbeing. Natural light is ideal, but a good desk lamp is invaluable, especially if you tend to work into the evening. Choose one that reduces eye strain and adds a warm, welcoming glow to your space.

4. Make It Yours

This is where you can inject a little personality. Add a few framed photos, your favourite artwork, or some greenery. Plants not only look good, but they’ve been shown to boost mood and productivity. Keep it cohesive with the rest of your home’s aesthetic, especially if your office is part of a multi-use space.

Personal touches can help keep you motivated and make your workday feel just a little more enjoyable. Plus, a well-styled home office can be a subtle selling point when it comes time to move.

Whatever your working style, the right home office setup can make a real difference to your day and 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’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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Solo buyer? Bring life to your new home without breaking the bank

Developing the design scheme for your first home is an exciting process, but it can also be daunting once you factor in those additional costs, especially if you’re buying a property alone…

The sting of deposits, bills, and solicitor fees can leave many first-time solo buyers with little leftover in the bank for decorating. To help you spruce up your space on a budget, we’ve got some simple tweaks that won’t cost the earth. Take a look below…

Once you’ve picked up your keys, decide on a colour scheme for each room. From daring bold hues to sugary shades, think about how each paint colour will work in various rooms. Often, the lack of natural light can complicate your choice of colour scheme, so choose carefully before painting walls.

1.     Pick your colour scheme

Colour can be the most impactful element of interior design, so choosing a colour palette for each room is a great place to start. It’s important to develop a coherent colour scheme that flows naturally throughout your home. As well as personal preferences, you’ll want to consider factors like the size of each room and the amount of natural light present.

You might have a new house, but don’t be afraid to get your hands on second-hand goods. From Facebook Marketplace to Gumtree and eBay, there are heaps of resellers listing bargain furniture finds in your area. Not only will you save a pretty penny, but it’s also a great way to reduce your personal environmental impact.

2.     You don’t have to buy brand new

Before you move in, make a list of everything you need and see if friends can help. If your parents have been thinking about getting a new sofa, for example, there is every chance their old one is still in perfectly good condition and could tide you over until you’ve saved up a bit.

Many furniture shops also implement regular discounts and offers, so if you have a particular item in mind, it’s worth making sure you shop around and don’t make any hasty decisions if you could find something similar much cheaper elsewhere.

3.     Get organised

Furniture and decorating costs can rack up quickly if you’re not careful, so it’s always best to budget before you get the keys. Write a list of everything you need, including furniture, pots of paint, new flooring, and essentials to help you work out what needs saving for.

Make sure you have an idea of the maximum amount you can spend per item or room and give yourself the option of allocating more budget to the “bigger” items. This will help you spread the cost of decorating and stay on top of the urgent things still needed.

4.     Personalise your space

Little touches go a long way to making a brand-new space feel like a welcoming home. Prints, whether artwork or family photos, can instantly add personality to any room. While some frames can be expensive, a great way to save some money is to make your own using websites like Canva. Simply choose your desired images, print, and frame!

5.     Experiment once you’ve moved in

Decorating takes time, so don’t worry if it’s not perfect right away. Starting slowly will help you plot and plan what style, scheme, and colour to go for.

Move your furniture around frequently to find a layout that works best for you and your personal routine. Plus, there is also the added benefit of feeling like you’re living in a new home every time you rearrange a particular room or area.

Thinking of buying solo or worried about what you can afford? Get in touch for expert advice and help!