Nearly one-third of people have their property purchase fall through according to Which! So what can you do to help keep your house-buying journey on track to avoid becoming part of that statistic?

Avoid chains if possible

Being part of a chain means you’re connected to other buyers and sellers in a sequence. If any link breaks, it can affect everyone. Choosing a property without a chain can save you from potential headaches later on. So, let your head rule over your heart when making decisions!

Set realistic timelines

Once your offer is accepted, discuss timelines early on. While buying and selling properties can take time, aligning everyone’s expectations toward a common deadline helps keep things moving forward smoothly.

Stay organised

Have all your paperwork ready and easily accessible. Being prompt in responding to queries can prevent unnecessary delays. Plus, being easily reachable means you can resolve minor issues swiftly, keeping the process on track.

Choose the right estate agent

Not all estate agents are created equal. Look beyond just their fees and consider their experience and track record in keeping house sales on track. Reading reviews can give you insights into their past performance. Also, ensure you have good rapport with them, as they play a crucial role in helping to make your move as smooth as possible.

Consider alternatives to chains

If issues arise in your chain, consider selling and renting temporarily to avoid losing your buyer. This strategy also positions you as a more attractive buyer when you find a property, as you’ll be chain-free.

By following these tips, you can navigate the house-buying process with confidence and hopefully avoid any hiccups along the way!

If you are considering selling your property in Sheffield and Rotherham  give me a call on 07920 097 175 or send an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com and I will be happy to discuss it with you how I support my sellers to achieve a smooth and successful sale. 

Spring is a fantastic time to put your home on the market! The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and everything just looks so much more inviting. Plus, did you know that spring is traditionally when most people start looking for new homes? Online property portals confirm every year that spring is the busiest time for online home searches.

If you’re thinking about selling your property or already have it listed, you might have a few questions swirling around in your mind. Here are some common ones we hear from my clients:

Should I Have New Garden Photos Taken?

So, your house has been sitting on the market since winter, and now your garden is bursting with life. Should you get some new photos taken? Absolutely! Winter garden pics can look a bit drab with all the bare trees and muddy lawns. When your garden starts to bloom, it’s the perfect time to have some vibrant, colourful shots taken to catch buyers’ eyes. At Linda Stringer, I will even update your garden photos for free to keep your listing looking its best. Just ask your agent if they offer something similar!

How Quickly Can I Move After Accepting An Offer?

Ah, the waiting game! On average, it takes about 12 weeks from accepting an offer to getting the keys handed over. However, this can vary a lot depending on various factors like your buyer’s situation, any hiccups in the process, and more. If everything goes smoothly and there are no chain or mortgage delays, you could be settling in by summer, which is around 10 weeks. But it’s always a good idea to chat with an expert about your specific timeline. I am here to help, so feel free to give me a call!

How Can I Keep My House Tidy During the Easter Holidays?

I get it – keeping your house in tip-top shape while your children are running around during the holidays is no easy feat! But don’t worry, there are a few tricks you can try. Encourage your little ones to tidy up (a little bribery never hurts!), keep them out of the house as much as possible during viewings, and maybe treat yourself to some takeaways to avoid kitchen clean-up stress. If it all feels too overwhelming, just let your agent know if you’d like to take a break from viewings until the holidays are over.

Is Now a Good Time to Sell?

You might be wondering if the time is right to sell. Well, things are changing a bit – more homes are hitting the market, which means more competition. But don’t worry too much! Prices are still holding strong, and selling now means you’re catching the market at a good time. Waiting until next year might bring some uncertainties, so why not strike while the iron’s hot?

What Buyers Are Looking For?

It’s always good to know what’s on buyers’ wish lists, right? Well, right now, things like home offices, potential for extending, and bungalows are super popular. Whatever your home has to offer, there’s probably a buyer out there looking for it. I would love to chat with you about what makes your home special so that I can find it the perfect match.

Not Getting Much Interest?

It can be disheartening when your home isn’t getting the attention you hoped for. But don’t worry – there are a few things I can do to jazz up your listing! Improving your home’s presentation, adjusting the price if needed, and sprucing up your marketing materials can make a big difference. I have seen it happen before, so let’s work together to make your home shine!

Asking Viewers to Remove Shoes

Worried about muddy footprints ruining your carpets during viewings? You’re not alone! It’s totally okay to ask viewers to take off their shoes before they come in. Clean carpets make for a much better impression, so don’t be shy about setting that expectation.

I am here to make your home-selling journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Got more questions or ready to get started? Just give me a shout at 07920 097 175 or send me an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com. I can’t wait to help you sell your home!

The days are growing longer and the temperature is beginning to rise. Spring is the perfect time to give your rental property a little bit of TLC. Taking care of essential property maintenance tasks not only enhances the kerb appeal of your rental property but also helps to prevent potential issues that may arise later in the year. Here’s my comprehensive guide to the must-do spring maintenance jobs for your buy-to-let property.

Roof

The winter months can be tough on your roof, with snow, ice, and strong winds taking a toll. Inspect your roof for any signs of damage, loose tiles, or leaks. Fixing any issues early can prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the line.

Gutters

Winter debris, such as leaves and branches, may have accumulated in your gutters. Clean them thoroughly to ensure that water can drain properly. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, which can affect your roof.

Render

Examine the exterior of your property for any damage to the render. Look for cracks, peeling paint, or signs of mould or mildew. Repairing and repainting as needed not only improves the aesthetic appeal but also helps to protect your rental property from the elements.

Windows and Doors

Check for drafts around windows and doors. Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk to improve the energy efficiency of your property. Clean windows inside and out to increase the light that comes into your property.

Chimney

If your rental property has a fireplace or wood-burning stove, now is a good time to have your chimney inspected and cleaned as chimney sweeps will not be as busy as they are during Autumn.

Driveway and Paths

Winter weather can be harsh on paved surfaces. Check for cracks and uneven areas in your driveway and paths. Tending to these issues early can prevent further damage.

By tackling these essential spring property maintenance tasks now, you’ll not only boost your rental property’s kerb appeal but will also set the stage for a comfortable and worry-free summer. Regular maintenance is the key to preserving your property’s value and ensuring a safe and enjoyable living environment for your tenants.

If you are considering letting your property in Sheffield & Rotherham and would like to know what you should be doing to get your property market ready please give me a call on on 07920 097 175 or send an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com.

Moving to a new home can be both an exciting and stressful experience, whether you’re buying your home or moving to a new rented one. The process of packing up your life and moving to a new home often comes with its fair share of challenges. However, with careful planning, moving can be turned into a stress-free experience for everyone involved.

Plan Early

The key to a smooth move lies in meticulous planning. Begin by creating a comprehensive checklist that includes tasks such as decluttering, organising your belongings, and informing your utility companies and other service providers about your  impending move. Beginning your planning early means that you have more time to organise everything over a longer period of time which makes it into a less overwhelming experience.

Declutter

Moving home is an excellent opportunity to declutter. After all, the less you have, the less you have to pack. Decide what you truly need and want to take to your new home and donate or sell the rest.

Packing

Invest in good quality packing materials and pack room by room. Clearly label boxes with their contents and the room they belong to. This will make unpacking easier and will also help your movers to know which rooms to put boxes into in your new home. Always make sure that you make it clear on the box if it has fragile contents.

Professional Movers

If your budget allows, consider hiring professional movers. They are experienced at handling the logistics of a move, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and efficiently. Research reputable moving companies, read reviews, and obtain quotes to find the best company for your needs.

Notify Utility Companies

Ensure a smooth move by letting your utility, internet and any other relevant service providers know about your move well in advance. That way you can make sure that disconnections and reconnections match with your moving dates.

Moving Day Survival Kit

Pack a bag with essentials for the first night at your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any items you’ll need immediately. Having a moving day survival kit reduces the stress of searching through boxes for essential items.

Ask for Help

Having extra hands can make the whole process easier and faster. Consider organising a packing party or offering a meal as a thank you for their help.

Take Regular Breaks

Moving can be physically and emotionally draining. Remember to take regular breaks, and get a good night’s sleep before and after the move. Taking care of yourself ensures you’ll be better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise.

These strategies can help you to turn moving into a positive and manageable experience. I am always happy to share our home moving advice. If you are thinking of moving to a new home in Sheffield & Rotherham please don’t hesitate to contact me for more home moving advice

The most romantic day of the year is nearly upon us. Love is in the air and all around us are happy couples preparing to celebrate their love.

I would like to talk about a different type of love, the love you have for your home. Just like our relationships with our partners, the relationship we have with our homes goes through stages.

There is the first meeting (viewing), asking them on a first date (making an offer) courting (finding out all about each other as the sale progresses), commitment (completing the sale), the honeymoon period (loving everything about your home and showing it off to your friends), complacency (taking your home for granted), boredom (no longer enjoying the time you spend in your home and taking an interest in other properties) and then the break-up (selling your home).

If your relationship with your home has hit the complacency or boredom stage maybe it is time to freshen up your relationship by making some changes that will benefit you both.

Whether you rearrange furniture, declutter your house or commit to completely redecorating, changes, big or small, can help you to fall back in love with your home.

If after making some changes you still feel like your relationship with your home cannot be saved then at least you know that you will have ensured that you will maximise your profit if you do decide to break-up (sell).

Estate agents are the matchmakers of the property world so if you and your property have reached the end of your relationship I will gladly help you to handle your break-up with empathy and sensitivity.

I can handle your home’s dates (viewings) with their potential new owners and can feedback any constructive criticism to you whilst saving you from having to hear if the viewers simply didn’t like your taste in sofas.

Once a potential buyer progresses to a second date (second viewing) I can handle all their queries and help them to decide whether your property is the right match for them.

Love cannot be rushed. I have had a viewer place an offer on a first viewing, a true case of love at first sight. I have also taken people to see a property six times before they have decided to make an offer, a perfect example of how love can grow.

I can help to guide you through the property selling process. No matter how lucky or unlucky in love you are I will find your home its perfect person/people.

One thing is definitely true. If you instruct me to find your property the perfect new owner, you will fall head over heels with my service and care.

If you are ready to break-up with your property and you would like to put it on the market give me a call on 07920 097 175 or send me an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com and I will make sure that your property finds someone who will love it as much as you used to.

Rising mortgage rates, increasing regulatory pressure to improve the EPC ratings of their rental properties and the prospect of paying increasing amounts of tax under Government plans to cut capital gains allowance has caused many landlords to consider selling.

However yields in the property sector are still competitive compared to the income that can be drawn from a traditional pension. The average gross yield on a new buy-to-let purchase is 6%, according to a recent survey. By contrast a typical pension pot in drawdown has a target rate of 4%.

Mark Harris, of the broker SPF Private Clients said “Demand for rental property is unlikely to fall anytime soon, with more people having to rent for longer because they can’t afford to buy, the need for good quality rental property at a reasonable price is higher than ever…what’s more, with a number of landlords selling up because the increased tax and regulatory burden has become too much, demand is only going to grow. If the rest of your investments have been in stocks, bonds and cash, it is good to have some exposure to bricks and mortar.”

A fall in house prices could also work in favour of investors who are looking for an opportunity to invest in a rental property. When house prices fall it pushes up rental yields.

Mr Harris added “Buy-to-let benefits from capital growth over the long term,” he said. “This means you can enjoy a regular and fairly predictable income, but also eventually benefit from capital appreciation should you decide to sell up and bank the profits.”

As analysts at Deutsche Bank predict if the American economy enters a downturn stock markets could still fall a further 25% workers nearing retirement need to think carefully about where to place their funds in order to maximise their returns during their retirement years.

If you have been considering investing in a buy-to-let property in <<AREA>> and would like to discuss how the current market will affect your investment please give me a call on <<TELEPHONE>> or send me an email to <<EMAIL>> and I will happy to discuss your options with you.

Have you tried selling your unwanted belongings and donating everything that doesn’t spark joy but are still having trouble keeping your home clutter-free? Lack of storage space, or simply not having it in the necessary places, is one of the main reasons for clutter in a home.

Cluttered homes tend to put potential buyers off, so if you are considering putting your property on the market or simply want to get your home ready for the flood of visitors that the festive season brings, try some of these nifty storage solutions to turn your home from a disorganised mess to a clutter free haven. 

Hallway
As the main entryway into your home, it is easy for discarded coats, bags, and shoes to quickly build up. Consider investing in storage solutions so that there are easily accessible places to put these things away as soon as you enter your home. If you are worried about floor space, there are lots of wall-mounted shoe storage solutions available. If you have an overflowing shoe rack, consider storing out of season shoes somewhere else until they are needed again. A few well placed hooks on the wall can be perfect for keeping coats and scarves safely stored off the floor, and a shelf mounted directly above them is perfect for storing accessories such as hats, gloves, and sunglasses.

Understairs
Is the space under your stairs underused? Shelves and hooks can be used to turn that area into the perfect space to store anything from bikes to books and cleaning products to coats.

Vertical Space
If floor space is limited in your home, consider using the vertical space to store your belongings. Wall mounted cabinets and shelves are ideal for keeping things off the floor, which can make a huge difference to how the space feels. Alcoves and recesses are perfect for popping small shelves in without any encroachment on your space.

Ceiling
Don’t be afraid to hang storage from your ceiling. Hanging mesh storage baskets are ideal for keeping your little ones’ cuddly toys within reach but safely contained. Ceiling mounted pan racks provide the perfect place to keep your pots and pans off of the side when cupboard space is limited in the kitchen.

Bedroom
Underbed storage boxes are ideal for packing away out of season clothes and bedding. Storage boxes that match your decor are ideal for utilising the normally wasted space on top of your wardrobe.

Attic
This is the perfect space to store belongings that you don’t use all the time. You need to be careful to ensure that it is both well insulated and well ventilated to ensure that your belongings are protected from extreme temperatures and high levels of humidity.

If you are decluttering your home to get it ready to go on the market in Sheffield and Rotherham, please do give me a call on 07920 097 175 and I will be delighted to give you my advice on how to get your property market ready and a free, no-obligation valuation.

Many people wait until spring to list their properties for sale because they think that’s when the housing market is busiest.

However, a large number of people are always looking to buy properties after the New Year as a result of New Year’s resolutions, marital breakdowns (January typically has a higher divorce rate than any other month), and those who simply decide during the Christmas break that they would like to upgrade their home.

That means that there are a large number of people looking for a property at the beginning of the year so there is an opportunity for those who choose to list their property in January or February to avoid the increased competition amongst sellers that occurs during the Spring Rush.

Increased competition during the Spring Rush means that many sellers discover that more choice on the market leads to lower sales prices so how can you seek to make the most of the early months of the year to sell your property before the Spring Rush begins?

Arrange Daytime Viewings

Shorter days mean less of a window to show your house off in the best light, daylight. If possible, arrange viewings during the day and make sure that your windows are clean and your curtains are wide open to allow as much light as possible to come into your property. If it isn’t possible to schedule viewings during the day, ensure that your property is well lit and welcoming.

Don’t Forget About Your Garden/Outside Spaces

The pandemic has affected our choice of homes. A survey of 2000 people at the end of 2020 by Market Financial Solutions Ltd found that 92% of the people surveyed agreed that having a garden or some outdoor space was the most important factor for them when buying a property. This replaced square footage which was the most important factor the year before. Make sure your outside areas are looking their best by tidying away clutter, cleaning outside furniture and pathways and consider planting some winter flowering plants to inject some colour. If most of your viewings are outside daylight hours consider adding lighting in order to show your garden/outside space off even when it’s dark.

Heat Your Property

It may be cold outside but you want your potential buyers to feel like they are coming into a warm and welcoming home. Ensure that all the rooms in your house are sufficiently heated during viewings including spare bedrooms and bathrooms.

Choose the Right Estate Agent

It is important not to overprice your property or you will be left trying to sell a property that has been on the market a while, always less desirable in buyers eyes as they presume there is something wrong with it, when the Spring Rush starts. A good estate agent will guide you through the property selling process and help you to put your property on the market for the right price, not too high and not too low.

If you are considering selling your property in Sheffield & Rotherham and would like to know how I can help you to make the most of the opportunity the current season provides, please give me a call on 07920 097 175 or send an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com.

Properties virtually flew off the market a little over a year ago, and bidding wars were the order of the day, driving prices to unthinkable heights. However, things have changed in recent years. There has been a clear shift in the power dynamics between buyers and sellers.

Potential buyers have adopted a cautious ‘wait and see’ approach. Sellers, in turn, find themselves navigating turbulent waters, working diligently to secure offers at their desired prices. A worrying trend, known as gazundering, seems to be on the rise, adding to the woes of those trying to sell their properties.

The question on everyone’s lips is: Why do some homes stubbornly linger on the market while others find new owners with ease? There are several common pitfalls that sellers fall into, and the good news is that many of these can be rectified with the right approach. This blog will explore the five key areas where sellers might be missing the mark and explore what can be done to course-correct.

Estate Agent
Your choice of estate agent is one of the most crucial factors in successfully selling your home. Choose an estate agent who is dedicated to promoting your property to the right audience. Assess agent performance on metrics like average time to sell, consistent achievement of the asking price, and customer satisfaction. Avoid being swayed by agents promising the highest price or the lowest fees just to get you to sign on with them.

Price
Overpricing a property is the number one reason why it doesn’t sell. The frenzied price surges of 2021 are a distant memory; the market has cooled off. Sellers who stick to unrealistic price expectations risk their homes languishing on the market, deterring potential buyers. It’s essential to adjust to the new market reality and price your property in line with current conditions to avoid the disappointment of deals unravelling later due to mortgage application complications.

Preparation
Presenting your home in the best possible light is now more critical than ever. Beyond cleanliness and tidiness, it’s crucial to address minor maintenance issues that could deter potential buyers. A property with chipped paint, dirty windows, or an unkempt exterior can put buyers off as they worry that small maintenance issues are the tip of a hidden iceberg. In the current market, every detail matters. Decluttering, fixing up, and showcasing your property’s features can significantly enhance its appeal.

Photos
In an era where online property listings dominate, the quality of the photos on your property listing can have a huge effect on how many viewings your property gets. Professional, well-lit images showcasing every aspect of your property, both inside and out, can make a substantial difference. If your listing has been around for a while, consider updating the images to reflect the current season to avoid the telltale signs of a stagnant listing.

Presentation
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the house; it’s the owner. When attending viewings, sellers should strive to appear friendly, positive, and helpful. If you’re often present during viewings, it’s crucial to put your best foot forward. The seller’s attitude can be a stumbling block, making it essential to turn on the charm or let your estate agent handle viewings entirely.

In a market where the sands are continually shifting, success in selling your home hinges on adapting to these new realities. By choosing the right agent, pricing your property reasonably, preparing it effectively, showcasing it with high-quality photos, and presenting yourself positively during viewings, you can enhance your chances of achieving a successful sale in this challenging property market.

If you are struggling to sell your property in Sheffield & Rotherham, please give me a call or send me an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com. I will be happy to pop around and give you my honest advice on how you can make your property more attractive to potential buyers.

Are you considering selling your property in Sheffield & Rotherham, but are thinking about waiting until January? While many sellers traditionally postpone listing their properties until after Christmas, there’s a golden opportunity to get a head start on selling your property in 2024 by preparing to sell now.

I have already witnessed an increase in homeowners seeking valuations compared to the same period last year. As more homeowners are gearing up to move, it looks like there is going to be a much bigger selection of properties for potential buyers.

So before the big rush begins these are the compelling reasons why preparing your home for sale before the festive season kicks in is a savvy move:

Seize the ‘Boxing Day Boom’
Boxing Day is the unofficial start of 2024 in the property market. Each year witnesses a surge in property browsing on Rightmove during the post-Christmas festive period. Last Boxing Day visits to Rightmove rose by 54%, with over 51 million visits between Boxing Day and the first working day of the new year. Launching your property on Boxing Day means that you capitalise on this valuable time by enjoying lower competition and a five-fold increase in audience

Capture Timeless Photographs
Still planning to put your property on the market a few weeks into the new year? If you ask your estate agent to take photographs of your home before you put your Christmas decorations up then you will ensure that your listing doesn’t look dated if it is still on the market in February. Take advantage of the early December lull in the property market as it means estate agents have more time to meticulously prepare your home’s marketing.

Prepare Now, Sell When Ready
Getting your home ready to sell doesn’t mean that you have to start having viewings straight away. It’s like finishing your Christmas shopping early, you have the task completed but it doesn’t mean that you have to start using your marketing now. If you start now you can arrange your property valuation, instruct your estate agent, and finalise your property listing details at a pace that suits you. Then when you’re ready, your estate agent can swiftly put your home on the market.

Become a ‘Power-Buyer’
Putting your home on the market before Christmas and finding a buyer early in the New Year will make you a “power buyer.” Sellers always look more favourably on offers from people who have already secured an offer for their own property as you are in a good position to proceed. If you cannot find your ideal property don’t be afraid to consider selling your property and rent while you look. Chain free buyers are highly desirable to sellers and this strategic move can help to put you ahead of the competition, especially if other offers are already on the table.

Don’t miss out on the surge in buyer activity during the festive period—act now to achieve a successful sale in 2024! Contact me now to get the ball rolling on 07920 097 175 or send an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com.