Author: Harriet George

If you’ve decided to put your home on the market in 2024, then there’s one burning question you need to ask yourself.

When should I list my property?

You may have heard that spring is the best time to list, as traditionally, this is when estate agents do the most business due to a surge in buyers and sellers coming to the market.

But dig a little deeper and consider what’s driving buyers in December and January, and you may come to a different conclusion.

There are many good reasons why there’s no need to wait – and in fact, delaying listing simply drags out your plans.

To help you make up your mind, here are five reasons why you shouldn’t wait to list in spring.

Stand out from the crowd – With more properties on the market in spring, there’s more competition. With a greater choice of homes on offer, buyers may be more inclined to negotiate on price. 

Fewer time wasters – When it comes to buyers, it’s about quality, not quantity. In spring, you can get a fair few ‘tyre kickers’. These are people enjoying having a nosy at a few properties in the sunshine but who haven’t done their homework and aren’t ready to make a serious offer.

Attract more focused buyers – People looking to buy in the colder months are more likely to be driven by a clear purpose. Perhaps they need to move for work or have experienced a relationship breakdown. This means they’ll be more focused and responsive.

New year reset – The seeds of change are often planted over the Christmas period and start to bloom in January. It could be that Christmas at home with the family has made someone realise they need more space, or perhaps the penny’s dropped that it’s time to downsize. Whatever the reason, they’ll be ready to act to bring about change.

Be in a new home by spring – The selling and buying process takes months, so the sooner you get moving, the sooner you’ll be in your new home. That way, you can spend spring settling into your dream property instead of dealing with viewings, surveyors and lawyers.

If you’d like a free property valuation, contact me here today.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Deciding to sell your home is a big decision that comes with a long list of jobs and responsibilities.

Along with decluttering and last-minute DIY, you need to find a good agent and speak to a broker if you require a mortgage to fund your next move.

But there’s another critical aspect of the process that often gets overlooked: the conveyancing.

So, to avoid unnecessary hold-ups that could make your buyer lose patience, it’s worth getting ahead of the curve and following these five conveyancing tips.

Find a good solicitor

Do this at the start of the process; don’t wait. Ask friends and family for recommendations and get three quotes before you decide. Always check fee proposals thoroughly and remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best. If a solicitor is sluggish at responding to your initial call, it doesn’t bode well.

Be cautious

Consider going with a solicitor who communicates via a secure client portal. There have been cases – albeit they’re rare – where scammers have hacked into emails and used the information they glean from sales correspondence for fraudulent purposes. Be safe rather than sorry.

Get your ID together

You’ll need personal identification, such as a passport or driving licence, along with proof of address, such as bills or bank statements.

Organise your paperwork

Along with locating the title deeds, you’ll need all documentation relating to changes you’ve made to the property under your ownership. The list includes:

• Planning permissions and building approvals (if relevant)
• Gas safety checks
• Energy performance certificates
• FENSA certificates if you’ve replaced the windows and warranties for things like damp-proofing

You never quite know what information your buyer will ask for, so do the legwork early on to prevent a last-minute panicked search.

Respond promptly 

Your buyer’s solicitor may have some queries about the property; respond to them quickly. When one party goes quiet during the process, it can breed mistrust and ramp up everyone’s stress levels.

If you’re considering putting your home on the market, contact me here for a free valuation.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Remember those post-lockdown days when selling a property was as easy as putting it on a property portal and waiting for the phone to ring off the hook? 

Those days are behind us. 

The selling market has become increasingly challenging, demanding more than just a ‘For Sale’ sign outside and that property portal listing. 

Today, selling a home requires skill, expertise, hard work and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing landscape and financial climate. 

The good news is if you are thinking of selling within the next couple of months, I’m here to help. 

Below are five ways exceptional estate agents can help you sell your home in this challenging market.

Not ‘one-size’ fits all

A top-notch estate agent doesn’t just list your property; they tailor a personalised marketing strategy to showcase your home in the best light. From eye-catching photography to targeted social media campaigns, they know how to reach the right buyers.

Expert negotiation

Negotiating the best price requires finesse and experience. A skilled agent can navigate the complex world of offers and counteroffers, ensuring you get the best possible deal without scaring away potential buyers.

In-depth AREA knowledge

Understanding the local market trends, pricing and community insights is vital. A knowledgeable agent uses this information to value your home correctly, position it intelligently and ultimately find the right buyer for you.

With you every step of the way

An experienced agent provides ongoing support, answers your questions and guides you through the process, making it as seamless as possible.

Efficient and effective 

A talented agent knows how to navigate and maintain progress through the sale process. From accurate valuations, proper staging, handling the legalities and keeping all parties informed, they ensure everything is in place to sell your home quickly and efficiently.

The difference a skilled estate agent can make is clear, especially when the property market has slowed down.

Thinking of moving?

Don’t navigate these challenging waters alone. 

Contact me today, and let me guide you every step of the way. 

Thanks for reading.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

In this quick read, I delve into the importance of accurate valuations – and how to price your property with precision. 

Don’t be tricked into high listing prices

The saying “stick it on high and wait for offers” is a common myth that doesn’t align with current market trends. A listing will gain the most attention within the first 48 hours of going live. If priced too high, prospective buyers will ignore it, and it may be viewed as an unworthy purchase. Be wise with your pricing strategy; you want to be ‘in’ the market, not just ‘on’ the market.

Estate agent leaflets: Fact or fiction?

You may receive countless leaflets claiming there are numerous buyers for your property, but how often is this true? In slower markets, such claims may be baseless. The key phrase to remember is, ‘Evidence breeds confidence’. This can be in the form of comparable properties in your area that have sold for a similar price and within a reasonable timeframe. If the claims lack proof, save the planet and pop the leaflet in the recycling!

Online valuations: A rough guide

Online valuations, especially on property portals, might tell you your home is worth more than it actually is. These are, at best, educated guesses – hence them being dubbed ‘guesstimates’ by agents in the know. Nothing can replace the knowledge and expertise of an experienced estate agent who can give you an accurate, personalised valuation. 

Beware of next-door syndrome

Just because Bob and Janet’s house next door went on for £400,000 and yours is much better doesn’t mean yours will fetch £450,000. Analyse the complete picture. If their house has reduced its price several times and is still on the market after 11 months, a higher price for yours may not be realistic.

Trust in honest, experienced estate agents

I believe in honest, transparent valuations. 

I’ll guide you through the entire process, present you with comparable evidence and ensure you understand every step.

Don’t let myths take you down the wrong (often painful) path.

Contact me for an accurate and fair assessment of your property. With years of experience in the South Hams housing market, I’m here to help you confidently navigate your property journey.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

If you’re considering listing your property for sale, I have some good news.

Traditionally, there’s a surge in serious buyers coming to the market in autumn after the summer lull – so you’ve timed your move wisely.

But what’s the psychology driving property hunters at this time of year? And how can you, as a seller, capitalise on buyers’ motivations to ensure you secure the best deal for your property? Let’s find out.

A new start

When summer ends, many people view the shift to autumn as a restart or a ‘mini-New Year’. After enjoying their summer break and settling the kids back into school, they’re ready to crack on with any major decisions they’ve been putting off. And for many people, that means finding a new home. Buyers at this time of year tend to mean business as they’ve given themselves a deadline of moving by Christmas.

Yearning for space

As the days get cooler and shorter, we all spend less time outside and more time indoors. As a result, any issues with space – or lack thereof – will come to the fore. Many people suddenly feel their current property is cramped and start dreading the cold, wet months ahead. As a result, they may conclude that they need more room to move ASAP.

Nesting syndrome

When the leaves turn gold and amber and the temperature drops, it’s a clear sign that the seasons are changing. Many respond to this shift by digging out their winter coats, cranking up the fire (if they have one) and seeking cosy comforts. Knowing how much time they’ll spend indoors over the next six months, they prioritise a comfortable living environment. And if their current home doesn’t pass the snug test, they’ll start looking for a new one.

How sellers can win over autumn buyers

• Demonstrate that you’re organised, motivated and willing to move quickly to finalise a deal.
• Give your home a ruthless declutter so it looks spacious instead of cramped.
• Make your home feel cosy and welcoming by ensuring your lighting is warm and your home smells of autumn (try lighting a few pumpkin or cinnamon-scented candles).

If you’re thinking of selling your home, contact me today for a free market appraisal.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

If your dreams of buying a new home rely on the sale of your existing property, then there’s one fundamental question you need to answer.

Are you going to look for a new home first and then list your property – or do things the other way around?

While both scenarios can work out in the end, I think one option is far more favourable – and that’s getting your current property on the market first.

Here are four reasons why.

Show you’re a deal-maker, not a time-waster 

Competition is strong for the best properties, so sellers can afford to be choosy. If multiple offers are on the table, a buyer who has already listed their property (and is clearly motivated) is a more appealing prospect than one who hasn’t. 

It could save you money

Listing your property first puts you in a stronger negotiating position. If a seller wants a quick deal (perhaps they’ve fallen in love with another property and need to move fast), they may be more flexible on price if they think you can move swiftly.

Streamline the process

Once you have an offer accepted on a property, it will be all systems go with surveyors, lawyers and lenders. But if you haven’t listed your home, you’ll also need to get cracking on this front (by decluttering, tackling any DIY and choosing an agent). Juggling all these tasks at the same time can be stressful and time-consuming – but there is an easier way. To avoid having a multi-tasking meltdown, get all your ducks in a row with your property sale first.

Less chance of losing your dream home

One of the most common reasons property chains collapse is that one party grows impatient. So even if a seller accepts your offer on the understanding you still have to list your home, they may get frustrated if progress is slow – and pull the plug. You could miss out on your dream home because you started the process on the back foot and just can’t move quickly enough. 

If you’d like a free market appraisal of your property, contact me today.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

When it comes to preparing for a property sale, most sellers focus on the early stage of the process: sprucing up their home and choosing an agent to manage the marketing.

But there’s another element to nailing a successful property deal that gets less attention but is just as critical: negotiating the sale.

How do you know when to accept an offer and when to hold out for more? And what should your strategy be if you have more than one offer on the table?

With such large sums of money at stake, making decisions in the heat of the moment can be stressful, so it’s helpful to work with an experienced estate agent.

A top agent will have negotiated countless deals throughout their career and be able to advise you on the best steps to take.

Here’s an explainer of what it takes to negotiate a good deal to help you choose the right agent to manage your sale.

Get the asking price right. If your property is overvalued, you’ll be starting negotiations on the back foot. Savvy buyers won’t be fooled, meaning you’ll either have to backtrack on price or leave the property stuck on the market. An overvalued property is also less likely to attract multiple offers (that generate a bidding war).

Understand the local market. It’s crucial to know what similar properties in your area are currently selling for so you can gauge the competition.

Learn as much as you can about the buyer. Understanding a buyer’s motivation for moving and the timescale they’re working to is important. That way, you can judge the seriousness of their offer and if they have room to move on price.

Stay calm. Don’t let your emotions rule your decision-making. Stay cool-headed and don’t take the negotiation process personally.

Don’t focus solely on the numbers. Yes, you want to secure a good price, but if you have multiple offers, going with the buyer who can move according to your timeframe could save you in the long run. If you’ve already paid for a survey and legal fees for your next property, having your chain collapse could leave you out of pocket.

Stay positive. You may experience ups and downs on your property journey but keep the faith. You’ll get there.

For a free property market appraisal, contact me here today.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Unless you’re one of those super-organised types who spend the year secretly buying stocking fillers and stashing them under your bed, Christmas is probably the last thing on your mind right now.

And why should it be? It’s summer, the schools are shut (for a few more days at least), and you still have months to dust off your reindeer antlers and Yuletide jumper.

But there is one reason why it may be worth thinking ahead to Christmas.

If you have plans to sell your home and hope to be in a new place by the end of the year, then act now. It can take time to get all the elements in place to finalise a property sale, but if you put your foot on the gas, you can still do it.

Here are four reasons to market your property now.

Active buyers

With the holiday season coming to an end, you can expect buyers to be out in force in September (traditionally one of the busiest months in the property sector). They’ll most likely be hoping to complete a deal by 2023 as well, so they will be proactive and committed.

Conveyancing delays

After you’ve agreed a deal with a buyer, your solicitor will kickstart the conveyancing process. Many people underestimate how long it takes to complete the necessary searches and paperwork. The sooner you get the ball rolling on your sale, the better.

Motivation

As with many things in life, it’s helpful to work to a deadline – otherwise, timeframes can keep drifting further away from you. Having a specific goal will help focus your efforts and give you a sense of momentum.

Puts you in a good negotiating position

If your moving plans also involve purchasing a property, consider how other sellers will view you. If you find your dream home and put an offer in, the seller will take you far more seriously if your current home is on the market. It shows you mean business and you’re not a time waster.

If you’d like a free market appraisal, contact me here today.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

It’s often said that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but then (confusingly), it’s also said that first impressions count… Why are all these clichés so important? Well, when marketing a property, it’s a bit of both: how a property looks will catch a buyer’s eye before they pore over the finer details.

Photos of your property are what hooks the buyer, what drives them to pick up the phone to arrange a viewing, and what helps them imagine living in your home. So, property photography is an essential part of the selling process.

In this quick read, I look at how to prepare your home for photographs and what to expect.

Tidy up

If you know your agent or a professional photographer is coming round, your first move should be a tidy-up. Clear those counters, pack away the clutter, make the bed and give the floors a quick vacuum. Photos of a messy, cluttered home aren’t going to entice buyers. But a sparkling clean and desirable property will.

Quick makeover

Just before you take a selfie, you might give your hair a quick pat down, check your teeth for bits of food and put on your best smile. Well, the same applies to your property. A superficial makeover can make the world of difference to property pics. Open the curtains and let the light in, add some fresh flowers to your coffee table and make sure the dog bed isn’t in the middle of the room.

You might even consider moving the furniture to create more space and putting away all the bottles of shampoo and conditioner that are lined up along the bath.

Don’t be offended

Some property photographers might come in and move things around. They probably won’t start rearranging your sofa and chairs, but they may angle furniture to make a room look bigger or clear a kitchen island of any dishes or piled-up post to get a clear shot.

There’s no need to get offended or upset by these little adjustments – after all, they know what sells and are working with you to achieve the best look for your home.

Whilst not all estate agents use professional photographers, you can bet that even if it’s someone with a smartphone snapping away, they’ll know how to make your house or flat look its best. Give them a helping hand by making sure they’ve got a clear and clutter-free space to take pics of.

If you’re looking to sell your home, get in touch with me today. I’ll help get the best photos to achieve your asking price.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Buying a new home is a big step that comes with lots of considerations. Finding the right property in a good location at a price you’re willing to pay isn’t always easy and can take time.

But when you finally move into your new place to start the next chapter of your life, all the hard work is worth it.

Here are some factors to consider if you’re considering buying in 2023.

Shifting market

The property market has made headline news recently, but it’s important to remember that nothing happens in isolation. When interest rates change, so too does property price growth.

For example, 12 months ago, most buyers had no trouble securing a low-interest-rate mortgage but found sellers weren’t budging on asking prices. Skip forward a year, and the mortgage landscape is much tighter, but there’s more wiggle room on price.

It’s important to focus on the bigger picture (after all, the average person in the UK spends 21 years living in the same property*).

Affordability 

Saving for a deposit, working out what you can afford, costs of a mortgage, stamp duty… none of these things have changed.

It’s important to do your homework so you know how far you can stretch yourself. Work with a mortgage broker to understand the financial commitment you’ll be making if you choose to buy in the coming months.

Demand for housing is strong

The UK has a chronic undersupply of housing to buy or rent (and has had for years). This is one of the reasons why the Office for Budget Responsibility predicts prices will grow again in 2025. Long-term property is still a reliable investment.

Hunt down a bargain

In response to changing interest rates, some property owners, particularly buy-to-let landlords, may have decided to sell. If they’re looking for a quick deal, you may be able to negotiate a good price, especially if you’re a first-time buyer and aren’t in a chain.

Strong position

While any offer you make needs to be realistic, in the current market, you might be able to avoid things like bidding wars and competition from other buyers.

If you’re looking for a new property, contact me – I’m ready to help.  

* Zoopla

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

The number of downsizers active in the housing market has skyrocketed in recent months*, and is it any wonder?

With steep hikes in energy bills, interest rates and inflation, many people feeling the squeeze are rethinking how – and where – they want to live.

Downsizers are often stereotyped as empty nesters flying the coop to enjoy retirement. But due to economic issues, a wider variety of homeowners are now looking to make a change.

For many of them, downsizing isn’t about starting a new chapter in life but securing financial breathing space by moving to a home (possibly in the same area) that is less expensive to buy and run.

Others looking to downsize may have returned to the office after the Covid working-from-home trend and no longer need as much living space.

Whatever the motivation for making the change, for those thinking about downsizing, here are five factors to consider.

Financial aims – It’s essential to have clear financial goals so you can determine a realistic budget for your next property. Are you looking to reduce your mortgage or become mortgage-free? Or is your aim to free up equity to help a family member? It may be useful to speak to a financial adviser so you can understand all the implications of your move.

Maintenance – If tending to a large garden and handling all the DIY is an unwanted burden, moving to a smaller place might be a welcome move. But bear in mind if you move to an apartment block, you may have to pay service charges and ground rent.

Look ahead – When choosing your next home, consider what your lifestyle is likely to be like five or ten years down the track. Think about issues such as maintenance and accessibility.

Space and storage – Downsizers should prepare themselves for a serious declutter. If you have lots of large pieces of furniture, consider giving some items away to friends or family.

Costs – Before you can enjoy reduced living costs in your new home, you’ll have to pay out on things like stamp duty, legal fees and removal expenses. Make sure you budget for these expenses.

If you’d like a free property valuation, contact me here today.

* Figures show a 53% rise in downsizers active in the market from September 2022 to April 2023, Savills.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

On Monday 17th July, Morrisons Kingsbridge Community Champion have invited our local food bank to hold a fundraising appeal where the challenge is to fill a whole parking space with donations. Anything you can give will help them support the increasing number of people who rely on them.

Each week Kingsbridge Food Bank provides food, hygiene and household products as well as energy top-ups, prescription deliveries and other support to over 167 households in the town and surrounding areas, with numbers increasing daily.

Run by an amazing team of volunteers, they receive no direct government funding and rely on donations of food and money from the community.

The cost-of-living crisis has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people struggling to pay for food and bills, but the good news is that we can all do something to help.

How you can help

Some of the essential, everyday goods that are most popular are:

Breakfast Bars

Belvita Biscuits and Soft Bakes

Snack Bars

Cereals

Tea, coffee, squash, juice, sweet and chocolate biscuits

Jam, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Spread, Marmite

Pasta, rice, and sauces

Dried / Instant Noodles

Beans / Spaghetti

They’re also seeing a dramatic increase in people with food allergies struggling to afford speciality food – which is significantly more expensive than regular groceries. So, Gluten, Dairy, Nut-free products are especially welcome.

Certain products can be donated but with special care taken, including dairy, perishable items like fresh fruit and veg (grown in gardens or on allotments) can be delivered to the centre at The Avon Centre, Wallingford Road, Kingsbridge TQ7 1ND during opening hours.

Homemade cooking or baking can be delivered directly to the centre – but ingredients must be listed, in writing, on delivery, in accordance with Natasha’s Law 2021.

Even the smallest donations add up when people pull together to help their neighbours and their community.

And it’s not just donations of food that are welcomed. Our food bank needs financial support to keep the operation running. So, another way of helping could be to make a monetary donation or set up a standing order. Please let me know if you’d like their bank details.

I feel fortunate that I can support our local food bank, including publicising the excellent work they do and saluting the amazing volunteers who make it all happen. 

Thanks for reading.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Before selling your home, you might be thinking about ways to add value or unlock potential so buyers can get a feel for what it would be like to live there themselves. But renovations are costly and may not pay off. So, what can you do to make a change without spending too much? 

Whilst it’s always a good idea to spruce up a property before it goes on the market, the key is to know exactly what changes really add value before making any big decisions. 

In this quick read, I look at ways to increase value without spending thousands of pounds. 

Kerb appeal

First impressions count, and if the exterior of a property looks unkempt, buyers are going to be put off before they’ve even stepped through the front door. Whilst tidying up, fixing broken pipes and hiding bins immediately neatens a property up, what other changes could add value? 

• Paint or replace your front door for an immediate makeover.
• Add some greenery with hanging baskets. 
• Repaint the exterior of the property to make it look fresh and welcoming. 
• Make sure the parking area is clearly marked out.

Redecorate

It might seem counterintuitive to spend money redecorating a home you don’t intend to live in, but freshening up a property’s paintwork can add serious value.

Choose neutral colours to create a light, airy feeling, and pack away clutter to add space. Adding storage solutions such as shelves or cupboards can also make a property feel more spacious. 

Extensions and/or loft conversions 

If you want to add serious value and can spare the cash, consider extending your home or converting the loft or garage. Research has shown that adding an extra one or two bedrooms to a property can boost its value by around 20%, and even more if your property is in a city. 

Speak to an agent if you are considering a large renovation project to see how much real value an extra room could add. Remember, extending or adding a dormer could require planning permission. 

Kitchen focus 

Replacing a kitchen is costly, but as one of the most used areas of a property, it could be worth the investment. Minor renovations to add the wow factor include painting or replacing cabinet doors, changing door handles, fixing superficial defects, descaling and thoroughly cleaning all appliances. Open shelving adds a sense of space, whilst new lighting could completely transform the whole appearance.  

Garden makeover 

You don’t need to completely redesign the garden to add value, but making sure it looks its best is a must. Hire a gardener for a one-off revamp if you don’t have the time (or patience) to do it yourself. Make sure buyers see the potential of the garden by adding furniture or a BBQ so they can imagine spending their summer in the sun. 

Are you looking to sell your home? Contact me so I can value your property and get things moving.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Picture this: After a long and exhausting property search you finally find the home that’s just right for you. But then the estate agent mentions that it’s a ‘probate property’ and you’re left scratching your head.

While it’s a term that you’ve heard before, you’re not entirely sure what it means and if it could scupper your homebuying plans.

Well, let me explain.

What is probate?

When a person dies, the assets that they owned in their sole name can’t immediately be sold off or distributed. It’s a case of waiting until the government has granted ‘probate’.

Usually, it’s the executors of the will that apply for probate (if there’s no will there’s a slightly different procedure).

Once probate has been granted (and inheritance tax and debts have been paid) the executors can distribute assets according to the deceased’s wishes.

What does it mean for a buyer?

It’s common for executors to market a property before probate is granted. So if you find yourself viewing a property where probate is pending, it’s all above board.

The executors are acting in the expectation that by the time both parties are ready to exchange contracts, probate will have come through.

You can’t complete a property transaction until probate has been granted, but you can get much of the paperwork sorted in the meantime.

You might have to be patient

There’s quite a lot of paperwork to be done, and documentation to find, before the executor can file for probate. And once the actual application has been lodged, it can take between six to 12 weeks to be granted (it’s tricky to be precise because there have been processing delays recently).

Ask the right questions

To get a realistic idea of timescale, it’s useful to find out how advanced the executors are in the process (discuss this with the estate agent). If the application has been lodged, then there’s a good chance things are ticking along nicely. If the application hasn’t gone in, you may be in for a longer wait.

Be sensitive

If by some chance a relative of the deceased is present when you view the property, be sensitive. It may be that you’re viewing their childhood home or a property that has a lot of emotional significance to them. If you have questions, direct them to the estate agent.

Benefits of probate properties

Renovation opportunity

If you’re looking for a doer-upper, a probate property might suit your needs. It may have been some time since any renovation work was carried out so you can put your own stamp on the home.

No onward chain

You’ve obviously heard about people getting caught up in complicated chains because they’re buying off someone who is buying off someone else and so on. With a probate property there is no onward chain so you might have more flexibility regarding matters like completion dates.

If you’re looking to buy a new home, contact me here today.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

Post pandemic, having outside space has taken on a whole new level of importance and can add significant value to a property. But what happens when your garden oasis threatens the chance of selling your home?

Some lush green plants might look nice but could signal trouble for a house sale.

In this quick read, I look at the plants that may impact your selling price.

Japanese Knotweed 

The number one culprit for knocking value off homes is Japanese Knotweed, which can grow up to 10cm in a day and is illegal to plant. The powerful root system can weaken the foundations of a property, damage drainage systems and uproot paving slabs. It’s been labelled an ‘invasive’ plant and can knock as much as 15% off house prices because of the utter chaos it can cause.

In the past, properties with Japanese Knotweed have struggled to get mortgages, and buyers often require a special survey to assess potential for damage. You’ll need a specialist to remove it.

Giant Hogweed 

Although this plant is quite attractive, it can cause serious skin irritation and requires expert removal. Bizarrely, it’s part of the carrot family but is so dangerous it can cause burns to the skin. Once removed, it’s classed as controlled waste and needs to go to landfill.

Understandably, gardens with Giant Hogweed will also affect how much your property sells for and ethically, you should let potential buyers know if you’ve spotted it in your garden.

Bamboo

Just like Japanese Knotweed, bamboo plants can grow incredibly quickly and wreak havoc on a property’s foundations and brickwork. Whilst not illegal to plant, the roots can spread to neighbouring properties, and if it starts causing damage, you could be liable for costs. Whilst it may not affect your house price, it could cause future problems for buyers depending on the type of bamboo and its root system.

Large Trees (Oak, Poplar and Willow)

If you’ve got one in your back garden or close to your home, be warned it could impact your house price. Roots of large trees can spread out up to 40m, wriggling their way under building structures and paving stones, and causing general damage. It’s best to consult an expert tree surgeon if you’ve got a large tree in your back garden or speak to the Local Authority if you have one out front.

Other plants that could hamper your house sale include:

• Ivy: whilst nice to look at, it can get into cracks, lift roof tiles and damage pipework.
• Himalayan Balsam: don’t be fooled by the beautiful purple flowers; this is illegal to plant. It grows so fast it can quickly kill off other plants and cause a nuisance.
• Leylandii trees: typically grown as a hedge, apart from annoying neighbours and blocking light, the fast-spreading roots can cause damage.

When selling a property, people always tend to deal with interior issues before going to market. But it’s a good idea to also assess the front and back gardens for any concerns that could arise. That way, you won’t be caught off guard as a potential sale progresses. 

If you’re looking to sell your home, contact me today.

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here

If you’re selling a property, you might think that selling to one of your nearest and dearest is the answer. After all, they know what they’re buying, you’ll save on professional fees, and the home you love will be left in good hands. 

But is it really that simple? Unfortunately, no. 

In this quick read, I look at some of the things that could go (very) wrong if you’re thinking about selling to a family member or friend. 

Why sell to family/friends? 

There are plenty of reasons for selling to family or friends. Perhaps you want to help a child get onto the property ladder, or you want to keep the property in the family for future generations. Maybe you think you can avoid costs associated with selling a property on the wider market, or maybe you just want to help someone out financially. Whatever the thought process, be prepared for possible fall-outs. 

Selling privately

If you think selling your property without an agent is the way to go, you may want to think again. Yes, you will save money on agency fees, and you won’t have the hassle of viewings. But, on the other side of the coin, you might not be getting the best price for your home by selling to someone you know, as there’ll be no other offers. 

Without the professional expertise or marketing skills of an established agent, you’ll never know what you could have got on the open market.

Tax implications 

Did you know, it’s perfectly legal to sell your home to a loved one for just £1? Something lots of people have done in the past to help younger generations out. However, this act of kindness comes with huge tax implications for both the seller and buyer. 

Without diving into the ins and outs of UK tax laws, it is definitely an area that needs careful research if you decide to sell to someone you know to avoid the wrath of HMRC. 

Fall-out 

With any property sale, there’s the potential for things to go wrong. Add a personal relationship into the mix and it could make things very uncomfortable. 

For example, a property survey is a must, but what happens if this turns up something you weren’t expecting? Relations could become strained if both parties can’t agree on the price. 

How much do you know about your friend or loved one’s financial situation? Could you get stuck in a chain if they’re unable to sell? What about their credit history – will they be eligible for a mortgage? Just because you’re good friends doesn’t necessarily mean you’d make great business partners. 

By selling through an agent, you’re removed from this part of a property purchase, and they get the answers you need without it feeling like you’re prying. 

If you’re looking to sell your property, talk to me. I take on the stress and hassle, so you don’t have to. 

Harriet George – Matching people with property

View the properties that Harriet George currently has on the market here