Tag: home

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Three Reasons Your House Isn’t Selling – And How to Fix It

Are you trying to sell your home but not getting the interest you expected? After the bustling property market in recent years, you may have hoped for a quick sale with offers rolling in. Instead, you’re faced with silence. If this sounds familiar, here are three key reasons your home may not be attracting buyers and what you can do to change that.

1. Presentation

First impressions matter. If your property isn’t presented in the best possible light, potential buyers may skip past it altogether. Ensuring your home is tidy, decluttered, and well-staged can significantly improve its appeal. Professional photography is essential, high-quality images will help your property stand out online and encourage more buyers to book a viewing. Think of it this way: you want potential buyers to imagine themselves living in your home, and a well-presented space makes that much easier.

2. Price

Pricing your home accurately is crucial. Buyers are increasingly savvy; after weeks of searching, they develop a clear understanding of what represents good value in their chosen price range. If your property is slightly overpriced, it may stand out for the wrong reasons. Ensure your valuation is based on recent sales data in your area rather than relying on outdated figures from a previously inflated market. By positioning your home correctly within the current market, you’ll attract more serious buyers.

3. Promotion

Even the most stunning property with a realistic price can struggle if it’s not marketed effectively. Is your agent showcasing your home in the right places and targeting the right audience? A strategic marketing plan should include professional photography, engaging property descriptions, and promotion across various channels, from major property portals to social media. Ensuring your home is presented to the right audience is key to attracting motivated buyers.

The Solution

If your home is presented beautifully, priced correctly, and marketed strategically, those vital viewing appointments should follow. While you can’t control every buyer’s decision, you can create the best conditions to make your property impossible to overlook.

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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Maximising Your Outdoor Space for a Successful Sale

When selling your home, first impressions count and that includes your outdoor space. A tired-looking garden, weathered paintwork, or a neglected patio can leave potential buyers questioning how well the property has been maintained overall. With outdoor space now high on buyers’ wish lists, ensuring yours is well-presented can make all the difference.

Fortunately, small improvements can have a big impact, and they don’t have to cost a fortune. With a little attention to detail, you can create an inviting and appealing exterior that helps buyers picture themselves living there.

Doors, Walls, and Windows

Start with the basics: does your home’s exterior need a refresh? A fresh coat of paint on doors and windows can make an immediate difference. Choose classic, neutral colours to appeal to a wider audience. Check for any cracks in the plaster or masonry and get them repaired to ensure your home looks well cared for.

Small details matter too, sparkling clean windows, polished door handles, and well-maintained window frames can subtly enhance your home’s overall appeal. These little touches help create an impression of a property that has been well looked after.

Roof and Guttering

While a full roof replacement isn’t usually necessary, minor repairs can go a long way. Loose tiles or missing slates should be replaced to avoid raising concerns for potential buyers.

Likewise, don’t overlook your gutters. Broken or clogged guttering can suggest deeper maintenance issues, so ensure they are clear and in good working order. If your gutters have accumulated moss or even sprouting grass, a quick clean will improve both function and appearance.

Gardens, Patios, and Balconies

Outdoor space is a sought-after feature, whether it’s a garden, patio, or even a compact balcony. Whatever space you have, showcase it to its full potential.

For gardens, keep the lawn neatly trimmed, hedges tidy, and flower beds free from weeds. If you have a patio or deck, make sure it’s clean and in good repair, pressure washing can make a world of difference.

If you have a balcony, simple additions such as potted plants, a small bistro table, or outdoor lighting can help buyers visualise how they might use the space. A well-maintained outdoor area signals that the property has been cared for and allows potential buyers to imagine themselves enjoying it.

Final Touches

If you have a shed that’s on its last legs, consider removing it rather than leaving it as an eyesore. For larger gardens with mature trees, it’s worth having them checked and trimmed where necessary, this not only enhances the space but also reassures buyers that they won’t be dealing with falling branches in the future.

Ultimately, preparing your outdoor space for sale is about helping buyers envision their lifestyle in your home. Even if you haven’t made the most of your exterior space, a little effort now can make all the difference in attracting the right buyer and achieving the best possible sale price.

Thinking of selling your home? We’d be delighted to offer you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner today to arrange a time to chat – we’d love to hear from you.

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Is Your Property Overpriced, or Is It Just the Market?

Are you trying to sell your property but not getting the interest levels you hoped for? Are viewing numbers down? When you first launched, did you expect a surge of interest but were instead met with silence? If you’re unsure whether your property is overpriced or if it’s just the current market conditions, keep reading.

Why Isn’t Your Property Selling?

Selling your home is a significant decision, often after months of consideration and research. So, it can be incredibly disheartening to finally take the plunge, only to see little to no interest.

When a property is first launched, it’s promoted heavily through alerts, mailouts, and matches to potential buyers. This initial push is typically the busiest time, so it can be disappointing when all that promotion leads to no viewings.

You might wonder, “Surely there’s someone out there looking for a home like mine?” While agents and property websites are getting your property in front of potential buyers, the issue is often closer to home, quite literally.

Could It Be the Price?

If there’s little to no interest from the initial launch, it’s often due to an overestimated asking price. This issue usually goes back to the initial valuation before you even chose your agent.

Overvaluing properties is surprisingly common, and it’s not always a deliberate act of deception. Here’s why it happens:

  • Competition Between Agents – When you invite multiple agents to value your home, they’re competing for your business. Some may quote a higher price to win your listing, knowing full well that they can suggest a price reduction later. Unfortunately, this tactic can lead to your property staying on the market longer, often resulting in a lower final sale price.
  • Flattery – It’s never easy for an agent to suggest a price lower than what a homeowner expects. Some agents might try to soften the blow by giving an optimistic valuation. While this may feel good initially, it doesn’t help when it comes to actually selling.
  • Optimism from Sellers – It’s natural to want the best possible price for your property. If you receive a range of valuations, the temptation is to list at the highest figure quoted. However, this price is often at the very top end of your property’s value range, and the market may not support it.
  • Changing Market Conditions – Between your valuation and the launch date, the market may have shifted. Economic factors, seasonal trends, or local market changes can all impact buyer demand and price expectations.

What Should You Do Next?

If your property isn’t getting the attention you expected, it might be time to reassess your pricing strategy. Consider the feedback from the market so far, this is valuable information that can guide your next steps.

A price adjustment doesn’t necessarily mean undervaluing your home; it’s about finding the right price point to attract serious buyers. By relaunching your property with a new strategy, you can generate renewed interest and improve your chances of a successful sale.

Need Help Figuring It Out?

If you’re unsure why your property isn’t selling, we’re here to help. At Fisher and Partners, our experienced managing partners specialise in your local market and can provide a no-obligation assessment of your current strategy. We’ll help you get to the bottom of the issue and offer tailored advice to maximise your property’s value.

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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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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Should You Paint Everything White and Depersonalise Your Property Before Selling?

For years, homeowners have been told to strip their homes of personality before selling, paint everything white, remove family photos, and keep the décor neutral. But times have changed. While this advice was once the go-to strategy, it may no longer be the best approach for today’s savvy and style-conscious buyers.

Here’s why embracing your home’s individuality could help you stand out in a competitive property market.

Why the Old Advice No Longer Works

The idea behind painting everything white and depersonalising your home was to present buyers with a “blank canvas” where they could imagine their own life unfolding. However, the way we search for homes has evolved.

  • Scrolling Culture: Buyers now browse online, scrolling through hundreds of properties in one sitting. A plain, neutral home may not catch their attention.
  • Increased Interest in Interior Design: Today’s buyers are inspired by bold colours, stylish interiors, and unique design choices. Homes with character stand out and create a lasting impression.

Neutral walls and empty spaces may have worked in the past, but in a sea of online listings, they can blend into the background.

Make Your Home Stand Out

If you’re planning to sell, leaning into your home’s unique style can set it apart. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

  1. Embrace Bold Choices
    A statement wallpaper, a brightly coloured kitchen, or an eye-catching light fixture can capture a buyer’s attention and pique their interest. Even if it’s not to everyone’s taste, it makes your property memorable.
  2. Highlight Your Personality
    Unique décor or quirky furniture, like a vibrant armchair or an unusual lamp, can add character to your listing. These small touches make your home feel lived-in and inviting.
  3. Get Creative with Photography
    Showcase your home’s individuality in your listing photos. Lead with a striking interior shot instead of the traditional exterior, or use a twilight image to create intrigue.
  4. Add Colour Where Needed
    If your home is very plain, consider adding pops of colour or interesting accents. A stark, all-white home can feel sterile and forgettable.

When Bold Choices Work Best

If your home already has a stylish or vibrant interior, let it shine! No need to redecorate or tone things down, your personal touches could be the exact thing that helps sell your property.

On the other hand, if your home is very plain, it might benefit from a few small updates. Adding a colourful piece of artwork, a patterned rug, or even a couple of vibrant throw pillows can make a big difference in how it’s perceived.

The Bottom Line

Selling your home is already a complex process, so don’t make it harder on yourself by thinking you need to erase its personality. A house with character not only stands out to buyers but can also help them imagine how their own style might fit within the space.

If you’d like tailored advice on how to prepare your home for sale and maximise its appeal, contact Fisher and Partners today. We’d be delighted to provide a free market appraisal and guidance on showcasing your home’s unique charm to attract the right buyers.

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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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What is a Qualified Buyer and How Can They Impact the Sale of Your Property?

Have you ever come across the term “qualified buyer” in property transactions? Estate agents often mention it, and if you’re looking to sell, understanding what it means can be very beneficial. Let’s dive into why having a qualified buyer can make a world of difference when selling your home.

What Does ‘Qualified’ Mean?

In the context of buying property, “qualified” doesn’t mean the buyer holds a specific certification. Instead, it’s an estate agent’s way of identifying buyers who are ready and able to purchase, with clear requirements in mind and, most importantly, the financial means to proceed. At Fisher and Partners, we carefully qualify every buyer, reducing the likelihood of time-wasting viewings and increasing the chance of a smooth sale for you.

Why Qualifying Buyers is Essential

An experienced estate agent will register buyers on their system and note the specifics of what they’re looking for. Just as you wouldn’t want to view homes that don’t fit your criteria, the same applies to buyers. When we know what a buyer wants, we can match them with suitable properties, ensuring your home attracts genuine interest rather than casual lookers. Think of it as matchmaking for homes – it’s all about compatibility.

Qualifying buyers extends well beyond knowing their “must-haves.” It delves into their financial capacity, which is critical for you as a seller. The last thing you want is to prepare your home for a viewing or accept an offer, only to find out the buyer doesn’t have the resources to back it up.

What a Qualified Buyer Looks Like

When we say a buyer is “qualified,” we mean they meet these essential criteria:

  1. Clear Financial Position: The buyer has outlined exactly how they intend to finance the property. This might be through cash, a mortgage, or funds from a pending property sale. We ensure that prospective buyers either provide proof of funds (for cash purchases) or show a mortgage agreement in principle, so there’s no ambiguity about their financial capability.
  2. Transparent Timescale: They’ve communicated their timing expectations. For example, they may have a property to sell themselves, or a rental notice period to complete. We then share this information with you so that you have a realistic idea of their timeline.
  3. Property Sale Status: If the buyer needs to sell their own property first, they inform us of its current status – whether it’s on the market, under offer, or just beginning the sale process. This transparency helps you understand how realistic their offer is in terms of timing and their ability to proceed.

Why It Matters to You

Imagine this: you receive an exciting offer, perhaps even over your asking price, and rush to find your next dream home. But suddenly, you learn that the buyer isn’t as ready as they seemed – they still need to sell their property, which isn’t even listed yet. With your hopes set high, you might now face frustrating delays, or worse, the buyer might be unable to sell their own home for the needed amount. All of this could have been avoided if the buyer’s qualifications were clearly understood from the start.

By thoroughly qualifying each buyer, we help protect you from the risk of failed offers and sudden setbacks. When a buyer’s finances and timeline are clear, you gain peace of mind that the transaction can proceed as planned, allowing you to confidently move forward.

Using This Knowledge to Your Advantage

With qualified buyers, you have more than just an offer on paper. You have insight into the circumstances of each potential transaction, allowing you to make decisions that fit your needs. If, for example, you aren’t in a rush to sell, you can confidently consider offers from buyers with slightly longer timelines. Or, if speed is a priority, you might opt for a cash buyer who’s ready to move swiftly.

The knowledge your estate agent gathers from each buyer ensures a smoother, more informed decision-making process, aligning your expectations with those of the buyer from the outset.

If this is the first time you’re hearing about buyer qualification, our team of experts is here to help. Understanding this process could save you valuable time, energy, and money. If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to offer a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner at Fisher and Partners, and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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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.

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Are you making these mistakes when trying to sell your property?

troubles selling house

When the time has come to sell your home and move on to pastures new, it’s likely that you haven’t sold a property for quite some time. The average time a person lives in one property is 7-10 years, and if you cast your mind back ten years, our world today is almost unrecognisable; AI and cryptocurrency are now part of our lives, but it’s possible that you’d never really heard of either of those things ten years ago and they certainly weren’t in our everyday conversations. 

So it’s fair to say that, unless you are moving house far more frequently than the average person, you might not be considered an expert in selling property. With this in mind, it’s easy for a homeowner to fall foul of these common mistakes as they attempt to sell.

Overvaluing

Planning your move is as much about the property you want to move in to as it is about selling your current home. The more money you can sell your home for, the higher the available budget for the onward move. Many sellers make the mistake of marketing their property for sale at a price that is simply too high, falsely believing that the higher the starting price is, the higher the end sale price will be. Instead, a discerning homeowner should market their property for a competitive price, reasonable and researched based on factual evidence collected from the current market. You may think a buyer will negotiate with you when they view, but unfortunately, that is often not the case. Buyers will simply discount the property altogether, and you’ll find the number of viewings so low that a sale becomes quite unlikely, meaning that you’ll most likely have to reduce the price.

Bad pricing strategy

Many sellers mistakenly think that they need to factor in wiggle room to their pricing strategy to allow for negotiation. This often results in advertising prices being quite unconventional and are placed ever so slightly above a round figure. In fact, this has an adverse effect on the marketing of a home as almost 99% of all property searches begin online, and properties are filtered using price brackets. If you market your home at £255,000 to allow £5000 negotiation, any buyer that cuts off their search at £250,000 will not even see your property in their search and might never know that your home is available. Instead, opt for round figures that align with the price brackets in online advertising to maximise the coverage and exposure of your marketing.

Being inflexible

The ultimate mistake sellers make is being rigid and uncompromising in their plans. Not allowing viewing appointments at a time that suits the buyer could result in that buyer not viewing at all. Setting a fixed price in your mind could mean you’re unsuccessful in your negotiation. Being very restrictive on your moving timescale could result in a buyer choosing a different property that suits their circumstances over yours. Being as flexible and accommodating as possible will ultimately increase your chances of selling your home.

Whilst it is, of course, still possible to sell your home if you market for a little more than it is truly worth, add a little extra for negotiation and stick rigidly to your own agenda and timescale, you are simply reducing your available market to sell to which could result in a slower sale or a lower sale price. 

If you’re on the market and wondering why you haven’t sold yet, or are thinking of putting your property on the market, contact the Managing Partner for your area to ensure that you don’t fall foul of any common mistakes and maximise the value of your home.