Tag: propertymarket

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Why Selling Early in the New Year Could Be Your Best Move

It’s common for homeowners to wait until spring to put their property on the market, believing it’s the ideal time for a sale. However, this approach often misses out on a prime opportunity. Many buyers make the decision to move over the Christmas period, and their property searches ramp up as soon as January begins.

At Fisher and Partners, we frequently advise our clients to list their homes early in the New Year. This period typically sees low stock levels, meaning fewer properties are available, while buyer activity tends to peak. By launching your property during this window, you can get ahead of the competition, capture the attention of motivated buyers, and create a smoother, less pressured sales process.

The results speak for themselves. In just the first week and a half of January, across Fisher and Partners, we’ve seen offers worth over £10 million combined. Buyer activity has surged, and those clients who followed our advice are reaping the benefits of early market exposure, staying ahead of the competition.

If you’re considering selling your home, now is the time to act. Be proactive, take advantage of this seasonal uptick in activity, and give yourself the best chance of a successful sale.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to provide a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner to arrange a time to chat. We look forward to hearing from you.

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5 Things to Do If You’re Trying to Sell an Empty Property Over Winter

Selling an empty property during the colder months can be challenging. With the shorter days, frosty weather, and a lack of warmth inside, it’s easy for a vacant house to feel unwelcoming. However, with a few strategic steps, you can protect your property and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Here are five essential tips for maintaining and showcasing an empty property during the winter season.

1. Prevent Damage from Burst Pipes

Winter temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to extensive and costly damage. Prevent this by:

  • Draining the water system to remove any water from the pipes.
  • Alternatively, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature to prevent freezing. Set the thermostat to a minimum of 10-15°C (50-59°F) if you keep the heating on.

This not only protects the property but ensures a comfortable viewing environment.

2. Keep the Property Warm

A cold, empty house is uninviting and could lead potential buyers to associate the property with discomfort.

  • Use a timer to keep the heating on during viewing times.
  • If you can’t keep it heated consistently, consider portable heaters for specific viewing appointments.

A warm property feels more welcoming and can help viewers envision living in the space.

3. Perform Regular Checks

An unoccupied property still needs attention to avoid deterioration and maintain security.

  • Arrange for someone (you, a trusted person, or a professional service) to visit weekly.
  • Pick up mail to prevent an overstuffed letterbox or piles of junk mail, which can give the impression the house is abandoned.
  • Check for maintenance issues, like leaks, dampness, or damage caused by bad weather.

Spotting problems early can save significant time and money.

4. Brighten Up the Space

Winter days are darker, making good lighting crucial during viewings.

  • Arrive early to open curtains and blinds, maximizing natural light.
  • Turn on all lights, including lamps, to make the space feel brighter and more inviting.

This simple step helps the property look more appealing, especially during evening viewings or overcast days.

5. Tidy Up and Declutter

Even though the property is empty, it’s important to keep it clean and free from clutter.

  • Remove junk mail, flyers, or debris that may have accumulated outside the door.
  • Keep any outdoor areas, such as driveways and paths, free from leaves or snow.

A tidy space creates a positive first impression, helping buyers focus on the property’s potential rather than distractions.

Final Thoughts

Selling an empty property over winter might seem challenging, but with these practical steps, you can protect it and enhance its appeal to prospective buyers. From preventing damage to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, these efforts can make all the difference.

Need help selling or renting a vacant property? Contact our team of property experts today for professional advice and support tailored to your needs.

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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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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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Should You Put Up Your Christmas Decorations if You’re Trying to Sell Your Home?

If you’re in the process of selling your home, the festive season may raise some questions. Should you take your home off the market for a few weeks? Or can you juggle viewings with your holiday plans? Most importantly, should you decorate your home for Christmas, or would that hinder potential buyers?

Let’s address these concerns and explore why embracing the holiday spirit could actually help you sell your home.

The Magic of Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy and warmth. Towns sparkle with twinkling lights, and homes feel especially cosy. This magical atmosphere can work to your advantage when marketing your home. A well-decorated home filled with festive charm can stir positive emotions in buyers and help them imagine themselves celebrating future holidays there.

Removing your property from the market over the festive season, however, will ensure one thing: no one will see it. This time of year can be an opportunity to stand out, especially if other sellers decide to step back. With fewer competing properties, your beautifully presented home could capture the attention of serious buyers.

Why Christmas Decorations Can Help

Tasteful holiday decorations can enhance your home’s appeal. Many buyers envision how they would use the space during holidays; where the Christmas tree would go or if the dining room has enough room for festive feasts. By subtly showcasing your home as a welcoming haven for the holidays, you can create an emotional connection with buyers.

Here are some tips to strike the right balance:

  1. Choose a Signature Colour
    Opt for a single colour scheme to keep your decorations elegant. Whether it’s gold, silver, or a classic red and green, a cohesive look adds sophistication to your home.
  2. Keep It Simple
    Avoid overloading the space with decorations. You want your home to feel festive but not cluttered. Think of how a high-end interior shop might decorate: understated, stylish, and inviting.
  3. Skip the Inflatable Santa
    Large, flashy decorations might be fun, but they can detract from the elegance buyers are looking for. Save the bold statements for next year.
  4. Set the Scene
    Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with soft lighting, subtle holiday scents, and even gentle Christmas music. Offering mince pies or mulled wine during a viewing can leave a lasting impression.

The Festive Advantage

Buyers visiting your home during the holidays may already be in a good mood, and your thoughtful decorations can deepen their emotional connection to the property. If you can evoke the magic of Christmas, you may inspire them to make an offer… and fast.

Ready to Sell?

If you’re thinking about selling your home or want to refresh your approach this season, we’d be delighted to help. Contact your local Fisher and Partners managing partner for a free market appraisal. Let’s set up a time to chat, we’d love to hear from you!

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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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Choosing the Right Estate Agent for a Successful Home Sale

So, you’ve decided to move. You know the time is right, and you may even have a destination in mind. But how do you decide which estate agent to use?

Many of us turn to friends and family for recommendations or look to the most prominent agent in town. While these might seem like obvious choices, the right estate agent for you might not be the one with the most sales or the biggest office. The agent that worked for your friend might not be the best fit for selling a house like yours.

Common Mistakes in Choosing an Agent

Homeowners often compare agents based on fees and property valuations. However, these factors are less relevant than you might think.

  • Fees: You only pay a fee if the property sells. If the agent doesn’t perform, they don’t charge you.
  • Valuations: An agent who overvalues your property, whether due to inexperience or to win your business, likely won’t achieve a sale. This means no fee will be charged anyway.

Choosing an agent based on cheap fees or the highest valuations may leave you stuck without a sale.

Key Considerations

Evidence-Based Valuation: Look for an agent who provides a valuation based on solid evidence, not just a hunch or flattery. A careful analysis of the market and experience should lead to an accurate valuation, ensuring your home sells within a reasonable time frame.

Strategic Marketing: A few quick photos on a phone aren’t enough. An agent should have a clear process and plan for marketing your property to attract as many buyers as possible, generating viewings that lead to offers.

Value Over Cost

When selling your most valuable investment, now is not the time to bargain hunt for discounted fees. You need an agent who offers exceptional service, not just the lowest fee. Look for one who can demonstrate their marketing skills, showcase your property to the right buyers, and think proactively.

The Right Fit

The fee an agent charges is only payable if they successfully sell your home. When you accept an offer and complete the sale, you’ll likely be happy to pay for their service. Selecting an agent with a clear strategy and proven experience ensures a successful sale, avoiding the adverse effects of an unsold property languishing on the market.

If you need help selling your home, get in touch with our team of property experts. We’re ready to demonstrate our skills, strategy, and innovative technology to help you sell your property and move on to your dream 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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Key Tips for a Smooth and Successful Home Sale

Selling your home can feel like a complex process, but with the right guidance and collaboration, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a smooth and successful sale. Here are some key mistakes to steer clear of, ensuring your home sells quickly and at the best price.

First Impressions Matter
When it comes to selling your home, the first impression is everything. Many potential buyers will drive past your property before scheduling a viewing, and this is your chance to captivate them from the start. Make sure your front garden is tidy, the front door is clean and welcoming, and any clutter is cleared away. A well-kept exterior signals that your home is cared for and encourages buyers to take a closer look.

Showcase Your Home’s Best Features
Listing your home is just the start. To stand out in a competitive market, it’s essential to work with your estate agent to highlight the unique features of your property. High-quality photography, detailed floorplans, and engaging videos are all tools that help capture your home at its best. By showcasing what makes your property special, you’ll draw in the right buyers who can see its full potential.

Avoid Overpricing
It’s natural to want to achieve the highest possible price for your home, but overpricing can deter buyers and lead to a longer time on the market. Trust your estate agent’s expertise in setting a competitive price that reflects current market conditions. Remember, an overpriced home often requires price reductions later on, which could result in a final sale price lower than initially expected.

Teamwork is Key
A successful home sale is a team effort between you and your estate agent. While we handle the marketing, it’s important that you support those efforts by maintaining your home’s appearance and responding to feedback. A well-coordinated strategy ensures your property stays appealing to potential buyers, which can result in stronger offers and a quicker sale.

Act Quickly
Properties that linger on the market can lose appeal, resulting in fewer viewings and potential price drops. Launching your property with impact and keeping it in top condition helps maintain interest. By acting swiftly and making the most of that early buzz, you can increase your chances of securing a strong offer and closing the deal at a solid price.

Choosing an estate agent who understands modern property marketing and offers personalised, hands-on service is crucial. At Fisher and Partners, we specialise in bespoke, high-quality service, ensuring your home is marketed to its full potential.

If you’re considering selling your property, we’d love to offer you a complimentary market appraisal. Simply reach out, and we’ll arrange a convenient time to discuss your needs. We look forward to hearing from you!