Now could be the perfect time to get your property on the market as 2024 kicks off with more positive news. Last year, Zoopla* reported a 17% increase in new sales agreed as buyers sought to pin down new deals at the end of 2023.*

This influx in market activity appears to be rolling over into 2024, as mortgage rates continue to improve and buyers return to the market.
For sellers, house price falls are starting to slow down. This could be due to demand picking up, as some lenders are offering some very competitive deals for new borrowers at a 60% loan to value. This is great news if you’re hoping to achieve a quick sale this year.

It also appears that sellers who have waited for a more settled market can now cash in on the price gains they have been sitting on. According to Zoopla, the average UK home is now worth 18% (or £41,000) more than it was at the start of the pandemic in March 2020. * Because of this, we can expect housing supply levels to grow over the coming months as sellers make a confident return to the market.
Selling a property in a competitive market demands a thoughtful and strategic approach. Competition can be fierce during peak market periods, so you’ll need an expert on your side to help you navigate the selling process and achieve the best possible price for your home.

Understand market trends
It’s important to stay ahead of the curve by speaking with a local agent. They can identify supply and demand dynamics in your area and use this information to help set a competitive yet realistic asking price.

Price strategically
You’ll need to find the sweet spot for your property, so make sure to book an expert valuation as this will consider recent sales in the area, your property’s location, and the overall condition of your home.

Invest in effective marketing
Selling without an agent means you won’t have the same leverage online to reach the right audience. Digital marketing is a powerful tool, so you’ll need someone with an expert hand and an established network. However, traditional methods of marketing hold just as much influence, so make sure to ask your agent about their brochures, flyers, and local advertisements.

Responsive communication
When the market is busy, you need to make yourself stand out to potential buyers. Time is of the essence, so make sure to respond promptly to all inquiries and work closely with your agent by providing them with comprehensive information on your home. It will also put you in good stead to be accommodating with viewings, as you may be able to offer a booking slot which your competitor cannot.

Negotiation strategies
It’s important to have a skilled negotiator on your side who understands your property’s true value. Let your agent know if you’re willing to be flexible, as this could be the key to a successful deal.

 

Are you ready to sell your home? Get in touch with our expert team to find out how we can help

Zoopla*

 

House sharing is a good solution to finding your independence at more affordable levels. But if the idea conjures up memories of your student days when the sink was always full or you couldn’t sleep because of a house party, then think again. Things have moved on.

Have a cleaning strategy
There are some awesome properties available to rent and to make the most of them, it’s best to keep them clean. Whether you live with family or your partner, you will need to clean, even if you use a professional cleaning company or hire a cleaner. Taking turns or using a roster will help everything fall into place if some housemates are not proactive.

Remember your headphones
Parties or other social events should be discussed; the chances are you will be joining the celebrations. But for those times when you need to blast out some tunes, maybe late at night after a hard day's work, your headphones will help keep the peace. When planning forthcoming social events or times when you may be planning a special meal or gathering, it’s always best to give plenty of notice.

Talk about finances
It’s always best to split bills evenly. By agreeing to this in advance, you reduce the potential for any arguments. If you are saving to rent or buy your own place or are planning on moving in with your partner, this will help you save more quickly. Communication is the key to being a good housemate. If you know where the boundaries are, then it’s easier to live within them.

Be nice
If you find yourself living with a good bunch of people, a few kind gestures, go a long way. It is all about keeping everyone happy, and living with people who are upset or who become moody due to tensions in the home is not healthy and will increase your stress levels. Respecting each other's space, knocking before you enter, and generally being courteous will encourage the household to feel happier, which should result in more fun.

Remember the little things
From setting the thermostat, and taking out the bins, to using the washing machine, a flexible approach is the right way to go. Compromise is also key to preventing any fallout or tension. And with all the little things taken care of, you will find that they should not become bigger problems. The same goes for the maintenance of the property. If you use a letting agent, maintenance issues can be taken care of for you.

Get your own place
House sharing is a cost-effective solution to enjoying a great place to live. You can benefit from companionship, fun, and the safety that comes in numbers if the alternative is living alone. However, if house sharing is not for you, a fully managed property will mean you will have a dedicated maintenance team, which promises to improve your renting experience. From finding great homes to obtaining references and protecting your deposit, the entire process can be fast and straightforward with the right letting agent.

Valentine's Day is all about love, and there's nothing we love more than the gorgeous animals that call Amelia Trust home. This Valentine's Day, we'd like to invite the whole family to join us for a day of animal appreciation!