The latest from Moving Works

Welcome to our latest newsletter. This month as well as showcasing some of our newest properties to come onto the market we also share some property market insights. 

As 2021 gets in full swing, we discuss the surge in homeowners looking to move as well as how to understand your property's value. 

Further in the newsletter we share insight into the deposit saving process for first-time buyers, as well as reflecting on the positive property market developments from 2020.

If you have been thinking about bringing your home to market why not start with our instant online valuation tool.

From all of us at Movingworks, we hope you have a great January. Stay safe! 

Thirlmere Close Longton, £300,000

MovingWorks present to the market, this chalet style dormer bungalow situated in a central village location. The property is set on a large corner plot offering front, side and rear gardens. 

 

 Three Bedroom Detached

 

 Spacious Lounge Area

 

 Garage Suitable For Conversion As Residential Annex

Click here to read Thirlmere Close Longton, £300,000.

Hunter Avenue Tarleton, Preston £190,000

We are delighted to offer to the market for sale, a three bedroom detached chalet style House. This property is located in a quiet spot in Tarleton village, a short distance to local amenities.

   No Chain Delay

 

 Ground Floor Shower Room And First Floor En-suite

 

 Spacious Driveway For Off Road Parking

Click here to read Hunter Avenue Tarleton, Preston £190,000.

Hunter Avenue Tarleton, Preston £190,000

Movingworks present a three bedroom detached chalet style house. This property located in a quiet spot in Tarleton village, a short distance to local amenities.

 

   No Chain Delay

 

 Ground Floor Shower Room And First Floor En-suite

 

 Spacious Driveway For Off Road Parking

Click here to read Hunter Avenue Tarleton, Preston £190,000.

Gill Nook Walmer Bridge, £230,000

MovingWorks presents to the market this three bedroom detached property situated in a central village location. This property is situated on a corner plot at the head of a quiet cul-de-sac.

 

 Double Length Garage

 

 Spacious Lawned Garden

 

 Large Driveway

Click here to read Gill Nook Walmer Bridge, £230,000.

Liverpool Old Road, £90,000

MovingWorks present this opportunity to purchase a modern first floor flat situated within the desirable village location of Walmer Bridge ideally located for shops, amenities and transport links.

 

 Spacious Lounge

 

 Ideal FTB/ Rental Investment

 

 Double Bedroom

Click here to read Liverpool Old Road, £90,000.

Our Top Tips On Moving Home

You have found your new property and are excited to finally have the keys in your hand – now you just need to move your possessions from your old home into the new model. We have put together some top tips to make this process as stress-free as possible.

Choose the right removals firm
It may seem like an easy task, but finding the right removal company to help to transport all of your goods will make all the difference. Depending on the amount of items that you are moving, and the nature of the items (for example you may need a specialist if you are moving a high-worth object like a piano) you may need multiple firms to help facilitate your move. Do your due diligence and rely on testimonials, as well as recommendations from your estate agent and, if possible, have a company come and give you a quote based on the items you would like to be transported. We would also recommend booking as early on as time will allow, as often people will want to move on similar dates, such as school holidays.

Get planning
Planning for your removal early will help you to deal with any excess moving stress, as you will know that you have everything in hand. Once you have chosen the right firm, you can get planning – from which rooms to start packing first, to how you are going to pack your items up. The only way to truly stay on top of things is through using lists – make a list for each room you are packing up and create a timeline also so you have visibility of how much time you have on your hands. Decide how much material you will need to pack your items in terms of boxes and wrapping to keep items safe – people always underestimate the volume they will require so try to be as generous as possible in your predictions.

Pack!
Of course, packing the actual items up is the name of the game, but it isn’t just a case of throwing things into boxes – there is a subtle art to packing that will help to keep you organised. We would recommend starting from the top of the house and moving downwards – pack up what is in your loft according to the frequency with which you use the items and then move through each room methodically. When packing electricals, pack the cables separately and then bind the wires with masking tape and write on the tape which appliance the cable is for, and with clothes keep them on the hangers and pop a black bag over the top of them using an elastic band to hold the tops of the hangers together.

Create A Fact File
A fact file is such a useful goldmine of information – essentially it is an information document that you put together about your property including details of where the stopcock is for the water, the gas and electricity switches and so on which will help the people moving into your home enormously. Speak to whomever you are buying your property from and have them create one for you using your own as a template – try to include as much information as possible as this will help you in the long run. Information can include heating systems and how to use, any warranties or guarantees on items in the property, bin collection days, reliable tradesmen you have used, burglar alarm details, paint colours around the house – the list is really endless but it should act as a handbook to the property.

Summer Property Maintenance Tips

 

Now that summer is availing itself, many of us are making the most of our outdoor spaces and enjoying the uptake in the weather. However, whilst we enjoy being outside don’t forget to keep your property ticking along during the summer months. Here are a few maintenance tips that should keep your property in tip-top condition over the next few months.

Check your gutters
After the cold winter months with freezing temperatures, gutters are at risk of leaks and especially following the recent spell of rainy weather which can move debris into gutters, summer is the ideal time to check their health. Leaky and unsecure guttering can lead to bigger problems of water damage to your property, as well as being a fall hazard. Whilst you’re checking your gutters, go ahead and check your drainage system at the same time to ensure that there aren’t any blockages there, too.

Doors and windows
Similar to your guttering, doors and windows have been through a rough period by the time summer is in full swing. With the cold months of winter potentially cracking door and window seals, followed by spring showers causing further damage, it is imperative to check your doors and windows. Of course, if you have double glazing this is less of an issue, but checking that your seals are in order is certainly a good use of half an hour during the summer to stop any problems later on in the year.

Central heating
When the weather heats up, the temptation is simply to turn off the central heating, give the radiators a holiday and then start everything back up once temperatures inevitably plummet. Keeping the heating on a low-level through the colder summer days will keep the central heating system ticking over and also prevent any damp issues. During the summer, bleeding your radiators will also ensure that they remain efficient – if you’re unsure of how to do this then a quick search online will direct you to some intuitive videos. If you go on holiday during the summer, the same applies; keeping the heating on a low level may save you larger problems in the long run.

Sound the alarms
Whilst a check of your smoke and CO2 alarms may not seem like a particularly summery activity to be carrying out, you should be checking these units several times a year. By building these checks into your summer list of tasks, you are keeping yourself and others safe.

Insulation throughout the seasons
Updating your insulation may intuitively seem like a winter task, but part of keeping your home cool and comfortable in the summer is good insulation as this will stop heat penetrating the building. Of course, when it comes to the winter months you will also reap the benefits of insulation as it will keep the heat from escaping, ensuring a cosy property when the temperatures begin to plummet.

Property Market Springs Back To Action

 

With an estimated £82 billion of property transactions on hold due to coronavirus, the Government's announcement in the middle of last month that operations could resume, with the appropriate measures in place, was welcome news to many.

The immediate effect of the reopening of the property market could be seen clearly on the property portals – with a distinct spike in searches for properties the day after restrictions were lifted. Rightmove recorded over 5 million visits on 13th May and reported that sales demand doubled from Tuesday (when restrictions were still in place) to Wednesday.

The spike in property searches can be attributed to the many people who have had to put their property search on hold due to coronavirus and are now looking to move quickly in order to avoid their own chain collapsing, or just to take advantage of current circumstances.

A shift in attitude is also noticeable in terms of the types of mortgage which are being searched for – with a move away from remortgage loans to purchase mortgages. Mortgage technology firm Twenty7Tec reported a 27% week-on-week increase on 17th May for the volume of searches being completed.

“We are starting to see significant volumes return to the market – with searches for purchase mortgages in particular rapidly gaining pace. Searches for purchases are now at 44 per cent of pre-lockdown highs, up from lows of 15.6 per cent in mid-April” explains James Tucker, chief executive of Twenty7Tec.

Miles Shipside, Rightmove director and housing market analyst, said: “The traditionally busy spring market was curtailed by lockdown, but we’re now seeing clear signs of returning momentum, with the existing desire to move now being supplemented by some people’s unhappiness with their lockdown home and surroundings.

“Some may be unable or unwilling to move now, but those who are ready to take the plunge have jumped immediately into action.

“Unique enquiries on property for sale doubled from the day before, though we expect consistent momentum to rebuild over several months rather than weeks.

“With no new seller asking price data it’s too early to comment on price movements, though high demand is needed to support a stable market.

“If there are attractive lower deposit mortgages available it would help sustain the recovery in activity. The industry has been caught by surprise, as we were all expecting the housing market to stay closed until at least June.”

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Surge in homeowners keen to move this year

 

 

COVID-19 has caused a major shift within the property market regarding buyers’ and sellers’ attitudes.

According to a recent survey of 1,000 homeowners, as many as 26% are considering moving within the next year.*

So, what are the reasons for homeowners wanting to move?

After a year of restrictions and confinement, we've all had more time to reflect on the way we live and use our homes.

Considering that 55% of respondents directly linked their reason for moving to COVID-19, we can see just how extensive the situation is, with many households finding that their property no longer fits their lifestyle or needs.

As well as desiring a bigger garden space, other important factors include finding somewhere with:

 

 

Natural light (15.8%): introducing natural light into your home reduces stress and anxiety, boosts immune systems and increases happiness through the production of serotonin – the feel-good hormone.

 

Whilst these are just some of the core benefits, they are the most relative as to why homeowners are seeking homes with plenty of natural light.

 

 

A home office (13%): working from home has given many of us the opportunity to see remote working as a long-term norm.

 

By working at home, families are able to share the responsibility of childcare and spend more time together that would have otherwise been spent separate.

 

 

 

A home gym (11.9%): the initial lockdown caused a rift in the country's health and wellbeing, pushing many to implement home workout measures in order to stay fit, active and fulfilled.

 

The reality is that a lot of people won’t feel comfortable returning to their regular routines for some time, minimising possibly high risk locations such as gyms for a safer alternative, choosing to exercise from home instead.

 

 

 

 

Chief Executive of IDSystems concluded that: “2020 has been a year of frustration and uncertainty for homeowners, with many now feeling the need to make big changes, either by moving out of the city or maximising their existing spaces.

 

Through the challenges and restrictions people have faced, it is clear that British homeowners are not afraid to make big decisions to ensure their homes are providing the best possible environment for work, study and relaxation.”

 

 

If you're feeling fed up and in need of a change, we'd invite you to browse our range of stunning local properties. Contact us today for more information.

 

 

*IDSystems

 

Your guide to understanding your property's value

 

If you are planning to sell or rent your property, then it’s important to get an accurate estimate of how much the property could be worth.

To give you an agent's perspective of what that involves, we've provided some of the key take-away points below.


Market value

Firstly, knowing how much your property is worth is more commonly known as its 'market value', which relates to the price a buyer is willing to pay when considering local and national market conditions.

 

What impacts the value of your property?

The value of your house can be determined by a variety of factors, such as any recent changes to the property or your neighbourhood.

Some of these factors may also include the size, location, amenities, condition and the asking price of similar houses nearby, so it's always beneficial to talk to a local agent with familiarity selling in your area.

The difference between market value and asking price

Valuing your house accurately is one of the most important parts of the process.

 

Bringing your home onto the market with an asking price that is too low could mean you receive offers below market value.

Whereas if the asking price is too high, you may not receive any offers at all, causing time delays and market stagnation as the ideal buyers are put off a home that falls outside of their price bracket.

 

So, whilst it can be tempting to instruct an agent based on who is offering the highest value, the risk of this is that you may need to gradually reduce your price anyway to reflect the property's actual market value.

 

How much could your house really be worth?

The best way to see how much your house is worth is through a combination of tried-and-tested
methods.

 

Over lockdown, it would be advisable to begin by referring to online house price calculators and valuation tools, as these will provide a guide based on Land Registry Data. 

 

However, it's important to bear in mind that for the most accurate and up-to-date valuation, you should organise time with an agent, as an in-person appraisal will guarantee any recent developments to your home are taken into consideration.

If you’re thinking about putting your property on the market, book a valuation with our team today.

 

 

 

Top tips for first-time buyers saving for a deposit

 

Buying your first home is an extremely poignant event in anyone’s life and being able to put down a significant deposit is vital to stand you in good stead for your future repayments.

 

However, in light of the pandemic, we appreciate that it can seem more daunting than ever to imagine yourself taking that step towards homeownership.

 

As your trusted local estate agent, with lots of first-time buyer experience, we have complied these tips to support your saving goals this January.


Plan ahead

During your property purchasing journey, it is crucial to identify any additional funds that you may need along the moving process. 

Likewise, being aware of your monthly income and outgoings is extremely important in order to create a timescale for your saving journey.

 

 

Move back home

If your parents or family are not in a position to be able to support you financially with your property purchase, there are other ways they can help.

 

The vast majority of first-time buyers find it difficult to save for a deposit due to their monthly rental outgoings, so moving in with a friend or family member is a great option to reducing these costs.

 

Due to COVID, it is important that you check the most recent guidance before changing your living situation.

 

Downsize

If your current rent price per calendar month is slowing your deposit saving down, and you can’t move in with a family member or friend, then downsizing may help.

 

Looking for a property that is smaller could save you hundreds or even thousands over the span of your saving period.

 

Alternatively, moving out of a central location has the potential to save you a significant sum, and with remote working the new norm, you might find this option can be implemented without disrupting your lifestyle.


Check your direct debits

Especially at this time of year, many of us will take out various subscriptions without continuing to need them beyond the first month.

 

As such, it is important to go over your direct debits and ensure that you are still using all of the services you are paying for.

 

In 2019, Brits spent £4 billion on unused gym memberships – and with the average monthly fee being £35 per person – the cost really adds up.*

 

This also goes for streaming services and club memberships that you may no longer use.

Whether you have your deposit ready to go, or you’re looking to downsize to save some extra money, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

 

*Daily Mail
 

Positive property market developments from 2020

 

Looking back on 2020, it’s easy to focus on the negatives. However, the impact last year had on the property market was definitely overall positive.

 

What is in store for the sector this year?

Government schemes

2020’s COVID crisis gave rise to the stamp duty and mortgage holiday to support property homeowners and landlords through their financial hardship.

 

The stamp duty holiday began on July 8th and will remain in place until March 31st this year, giving buyers and investors the opportunity to see savings of up to £15,000.

 

Due to the scheme, house sales rose by a huge 21.3% in September.*

 

Whilst it's been reported that an impressive 140,000 more people are waiting to complete on their house purchase since this time last year.**

Similarly, the mortgage holiday was initially introduced in March 2020 and has been extended various times with a current end date of July 2021.

 

This scheme was announced to help households who had been financially impacted by the pandemic and can be taken for up to six months.

For more information, please speak to your lender directly on whether a payment holiday is the right solution for you.

House price surges

With property priorities changing to favour gardens, large living spaces, rural locations, home offices and dining rooms, prices for these properties has increased massively.

 

Similarly, with the aid of the stamp duty holiday, many buyers have been able to push themselves financially and purchase a larger property than they first thought possible.

With so many positive elements to take away from 2020, and a bright future for the property market ahead, now is a great time to evaluate your options.

 

If you’re thinking of buying, selling or letting this year, contact us.

 

*GOV.UK
**Property Wire