Author: Elaine Ford

There has been a lot of whispers, thoughts, opinions, and advice (some of it over a pint down the local) over the past few months surrounding the Tenant Reform Act and now that Labour are in power there are a few changes they propose to bring in.

Whether you are a tenant or a landlord here’s some of the things you need to know – not all of this is certain, but we do seem to be seeing a direction of travel, rather than listen to rumours we would like to share what we know and how we see what the affect may be?

The headline is that the proposed changes will only affect around 4% of tenancies, there are many reasons why a tenancy ends but well over 80% of tenancies are ended by the tenant because they decide to move.

Landlords are still able to move back into their own properties (though we predict that the notice period may be longer) Landlords can still issue a possession notice (through a Section 8 rather than Section 21) for tenancy breaches like rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, of course landlords don’t want good tenants to leave properties, and this won’t change.

If you are a tenant, as said above, landlords like good tenants, paying fair rent and won’t ask them to leave unless they need to sell or reoccupy.

Tenants will be able to request pets in their property which the landlord must not reasonably refuse. If it’s a leasehold property that prohibits then it will still be a no, likewise if the pet in question doesn’t suit the property then the landlord can still refuse. A llama in a fourth floor flat could be interesting!

A new law will also be passed to make it illegal for landlords to say ‘no children’ – technically this is already illegal, but it will be strengthened with the new bill.

Rent increases can happen every 12 months. It needs to be realistically in line with market rates. We as an agent make sure we supply our evidence to justify the rent increases so both parties are happy. In the past 4 years (since Covid) we have found that rents weren’t increased with many becoming well below the market rate. This has caused quite a few to have a larger than normal increase.

Landlords and their agents are not permitted to enter bidding wars. The advertised rent is the rent that should be offered. We have always worked this way.

Labour want to improve standards for all privately rented properties by introducing a couple of laws that already exist in the social housing market. The Decent Home Standard and Awaabs Law. The second named after a two year old who tragically passed away due to the damp conditions he was living in. They will become stricter, and landlords will be forced to rectify in a shorter time frame.

A digital database will exist to assist tenants with their rented property and another for landlords to help them navigate their obligations and to demonstrate that are complying with their obligations.

A new landlords ombudsman will give tenants a right to redress their landlord without the cost of going through courts. There was talk, pre-election, about tenants having the rights to buy their rental properties at a discounted rate. This hasn’t been mentioned since and was not discussed as part of the opening of parliament.

Mandatory periodic tenancies also seem to have disappeared for the time being so we will wait and see if it comes back. In short there will be some change but tenants and landlords have nothing to fear.

If you are worried about any of this though, please pick up the phone and speak to our teams.

Author: Elaine Ford

Fixed-rate mortgages priced below 4% are back on sale for homebuyers for the first time since February, with brokers hoping it is “a sign of things to come”.

Nationwide Building Society said from Wednesday it would be cutting rates by up to 0.25 percentage points across its two, three and five-year fixed mortgage products.

As part of the changes, it will be offering a five-year fixed deal priced at 3.99%. This will be available to new customers buying a home who are looking to borrow up to 60% of the property’s value.

The last time a five-year fixed-rate deal priced at below 4% was available was at the end of February.

In recent days, lenders including HSBC and Halifax have been gradually reducing the cost of their new fixed deals, with some mortgage brokers heralding what may be the start of a “summer of savings” for homebuyers and homeowners looking to remortgage.

Nicholas Mendes​, a mortgage technical manager at the broker John Charcol, said: “Nationwide is the first lender to finally breach the 4% benchmark following recent weeks of downward repricing. This is fantastic news for borrowers and signifies a significant change in the mortgage landscape after recent months of increased rates.”

He added that the 3.99% rate was for house purchases only, and those looking to remortgage would need to wait a bit longer.

“We will likely see the likes of HSBC look to reprice again to ensure they remain ahead of the pack,” Mendes added.

Mortgage costs have endured a rollercoaster ride over the last two years. The fallout from Liz Truss’s September 2022 mini-budget helped push up the cost of new fixed rates. At the start of this year, they dropped sharply, only to start creeping back up before falling once again.

Emma Jones, the managing director at the broker When The Bank Says No, said: “This is a big moment … Lenders seem to be pricing in a [Bank of England] base rate cut in August or, if not, not long after. If that happens, then we could see rates continue to drop.”

Henry Jordan, Nationwide’s director of home, said the latest rate cuts, including the reintroduction of a sub-4% deal, “further reinforce our position as one of the most competitive lenders in the market”.

Article from The Guardian

Author: Elaine Ford

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to remortgage, or considering a buy-to-let investment, our expert advisors are here to guide you through every step of the mortgage process.

We understand that buying a home or arranging a remortgage can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming process, thats why we offer an in-house Mortgage and Financial Services Department to support you every step of the way.

We have access to the whole of the market, we are uniquely positioned to find the most suitable and competitive mortgage deals available, providing you with comprehensive and unbiased options.

Whether you’re a first time buyer, looking to remortgage or investing in property, our experts will guide you through the options available and secure a mortgage that suits your financial situation. Additionally, our mortgage services are available even if you’re not moving with Perry Bishop.

We understand that every client’s financial situation is unique and will work closely with you to understand your goals and tailor our services to meet your specific needs, ensuring you receive the best possible advice and support.

Give us a call today and let us help secure your next move or email us mortgages@perrybishop.co.uk

(There may be a fee for arranging a mortgage and the precise amount will depend on your circumstances. This will typically be £350 on mortgage offer)
*Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Author: Elaine Ford

Are you considering selling your property? At Perry Bishop, we understand that selling your home is a significant decision, and finding the right buyer quickly is crucial. Our extensive database has over 8,000 buyers actively searching for their next home, ensuring your property reaches a wide audience.

One of the most compelling reasons to choose Perry Bishop is our extensive network of prospective buyers.

Our website attracts thousands of potential buyers actively searching for their dream home. Below, we have highlighted what sets Perry Bishop apart from other agents:

  • Speedy Sales: With such a large pool of buyers, your property is more likely to attract immediate interest, reducing the time it spends on the market.
  • Competitive Offers: More buyers mean more competition, often leading to better offers and a higher sale price.
  • Tailored Matches: Our advanced matching system ensures that your property is shown to buyers who are specifically looking for homes like yours, increasing the likelihood of a successful sale.
We constantly monitor our website traffic and buyer activity to provide you with real-time insights. Here are some highlights from our recent data:

  • High Engagement: Our website sees over 20,000 visitors each month, with a significant percentage actively searching for properties.
  • Qualified Leads: We have over 8,000 registered buyers with specific requirements that match the properties we list.
  • Immediate Alerts: Our buyers receive instant alerts when a new property that fits their criteria is listed, ensuring your home gets noticed right away.
Our comprehensive marketing strategy ensures your property is showcased to the right audience. This includes:

  • Professional Photography and Video Tours: High-quality visuals attract more views and showings.
  • Targeted Advertising: We use data-driven advertising on social media and property portals to reach potential buyers.
  • Personalised Communication: Our team actively engages with registered buyers to highlight new listings and arrange viewings.

Ready to Sell? Let’s Get Started!

If you’re ready to take the next step and list your property, our friendly and experienced team is here to help.

We offer a free, no-obligation valuation to get you started, click here to book a time and date direct into our diaries.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can connect you with thousands of eager buyers and achieve the best possible outcome for your sale.

We care about property. We care about you.

Author: Elaine Ford

Are you a landlord looking to maximise your rental income? Or perhaps you’re a tenant in search of the perfect place to call home? At Perry Bishop, our extensive lettings network is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Here’s how we utilise our network to benefit both landlords and tenants alike.

For Landlords: Maximising your Investment

Wide Reach and Visibility: Our vast network ensures your property reaches a broad audience. We list your property on multiple platforms and use targeted marketing strategies to attract high-quality tenants. This exposure increases the chances of finding the right tenant quickly, reducing vacancy periods.

Expert Guidance and Support: Our team of experienced professionals is always on hand to offer expert advice. From setting the right rental price to managing the tenancy, we provide comprehensive support to ensure your investment yields the best returns.

Tenant Screening and Management: We conduct thorough background checks and vetting processes to ensure you get reliable and responsible tenants. Our ongoing management services mean we handle everything from maintenance issues to lease renewals, giving you peace of mind.

Market Insights and Trends: Stay informed with our regular market updates and insights. We keep you abreast of rental trends, regulatory changes, and investment opportunities, helping you make informed decisions about your property portfolio.

For Tenants: Finding Your Perfect Home

Extensive Property Listings:
Our network offers a diverse range of properties to suit every need and budget. Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio or a spacious family home, we have something for everyone.

Personalised Service: We take the time to understand your preferences and requirements, matching you with properties that meet your criteria. Our goal is to make your search as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Professional Support: From your initial inquiry to moving day, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. We provide clear communication and transparent processes, ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout your tenancy.

Community Connections: As a local agency, we have strong ties to the community. We can offer valuable insights into neighborhoods, schools, and amenities, helping you choose the perfect location for your new home.

Why use Perry Bishop: At Perry Bishop, our lettings network is more than just a collection of properties. It’s a comprehensive service designed to support landlords and tenants through every step of the rental process. Our dedication to excellence, combined with our local expertise and extensive reach, makes us the ideal partner for all your lettings needs.

Get in Touch: Ready to experience the power of our lettings network? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your property goals. Whether you’re looking to let your property or find your next home, our friendly and experienced team is here to assist you.

Discover the difference with Perry Bishop – where property meets expertise and service meets satisfaction. Let us help you navigate the lettings market with confidence and success.

We care about property. We care about you.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

The rental market is constantly evolving, influenced by a variety of factors ranging from economic shifts to changes in tenant preferences. Read further for an overview of the latest trends:

As a landlord, staying informed about current trends can help you make strategic decisions, maximise your rental income, and ensure your rental remains attractive to prospective tenants. To keep you informed of all local trends, we have compiled a list to keep you up to date:

Increased demand for Rental Properties – In recent years, the demand for rental properties has surged. Several factors contribute to this trend, including rising house prices, economic uncertainty, and lifestyle choices favoring flexibility. Many potential homebuyers are opting to rent longer, creating a robust demand for rental homes.

For landlords, this means a larger pool of potential tenants and reduced vacancy rates.

Preference for high-quality, well-maintained properties – Tenants today have higher expectations regarding the quality and maintenance of rental properties. They are willing to pay a premium for homes that offer modern amenities, are energy-efficient, and are well-maintained.

Investing in upgrades such as energy-efficient appliances, smart home technology, and contemporary finishes can make your property more appealing and justify higher rent prices.

Shift towards Suburban and Rural Areas – The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated a trend towards suburban and rural living. With more people working from home, there is less need to live close to city centres. Tenants are now prioritising properties with more space, private gardens, and access to outdoor areas.

As a landlord, considering properties in these areas or making adjustments to existing properties to accommodate remote working can be beneficial.

Technology Integration – Technology continues to play a significant role in the rental market. Online portals for paying rent, submitting maintenance requests, and communicating with landlords are becoming standard. Additionally, virtual tours and digital leasing processes are essential tools for attracting tenants, particularly those relocating from different areas. Integrating technology into your rental management processes can enhance tenant satisfaction and streamline operations.

Focus on Sustainability – Sustainability is an important consideration for many tenants. Properties that incorporate green features such as solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and eco-friendly materials are more attractive. Not only do these features appeal to environmentally-conscious tenants, but they can also result in long-term cost savings for landlords through reduced energy bills and potential tax incentives.

Regulatory Changes – Landlords must stay informed about regulatory changes that impact the rental market. Recent legislation concerning tenant rights, energy efficiency standards, and safety regulations can affect how you manage your properties.

Keeping abreast of these changes or instructing an agent like Perry Bishop, who will ensure compliance, helps you avoid potential fines or legal issues.

Conclusion – Staying ahead of current trends in the rental market is crucial for landlords looking to maximise their investment. By understanding tenant preferences, investing in property upgrades, and incorporating technology and sustainability, you can make your rental properties more attractive and competitive. Additionally, staying informed about regulatory changes and offering flexible leasing options will help you navigate the evolving market with confidence.

If you have any questions or need further advice on managing your rental properties, our experienced team at Perry Bishop is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in maximising your rental income and maintaining successful tenancies.

Author: Elaine Ford

At Perry Bishop, we take pride in providing exceptional service to both landlords and tenants. Our dedicated lettings team is here to guide you through the rental process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Meet our team:

Our team are passionate about meeting your needs, with their extensive knowledge and commitment to excellence whether you’re looking to let a property or find a new home, our team is here to help.

Meet Our Team

Sian Harris – Lettings Director – Cheltenham – With over 20 years of experience in the lettings industry, Sian leads our team with expertise and a passion for excellence, with her extensive knowledge of the local market and commitment to providing a high quality service, this makes her an invaluable asset to both landlords and tenants. Under her leadership, the team excels in building long-term relationships with clients. Outside of work, Sian Harris enjoys photography and spending quality time with her family.

Cathy Sinnott – Cirencester Associate Director – Cathy brings a wealth of experience and a passion for property management with over 17 years in the industry, she has a keen understanding of the local market and a commitment to providing an exceptional service to both landlords and tenants, thus creating a smooth and successful letting experience. Outside of work, Cathy is a trained Actor and given any weekends when not working, loves to visit Bath Theatre Royal or our local Barn Theatre Cirencester, to see what’s playing. She also thoroughly enjoys visiting The Decorative Antiques and Art Fairs at Westonbirt, followed by lunch at the Hare and Hounds with friends.

Shaun Sutton – Stroud Valleys & Tetbury Associate Director – Shaun has an extensive knowledge and a proactive approach with almost 25 years in the lettings industry, he has an ability to navigate the complexities of the rental market and consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional results.  Shaun no longer plays rugby but still loves to watch his team play and enjoys taking his two dogs gundog training.

Jeff Emerson – Stroud Valleys & Tetbury Property Manager – Jeff is an experienced Property Manager in the lettings industry. With Jeff’s thorough understanding of the rental market and his attention to detail will ensure that properties under his care are managed efficiently and effectively. Having recently joined the National Trust, he is enjoing visiting their many properties in the Gloucestershire area and further afield.

Pippa Harding – Cirencester & Faringdon Property Manager – Pippa has a meticulous attention to detail that ensures properties under her care are managed efficiently and effectively. With her proactive approach, Pippa draws on her years of knowledge and experience when dealing with issues, saving time and resources for all parties involved. In her spare time she likes to take long walks with her dogs, spend time with her friends and family and help out at her partners public house when needed.

Bev Oram – Cirencester Property Manager – Bev brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to both landlords and tenants and can navigate the complexities of lettings with ease. Bev has a deep understanding of the local property market enabling her to achieve the best possible outcome. When not working Bev likes to cook and enjoys a game of tennis or a swim in the lakes at South Cerney.

Leigh Ireland – Client Manager – Leigh is highly skilled and has an exceptional ability to manage client relationships and ensure a seamless rental experience, she is adept at understanding the unique needs of each client and her attention to detail and proactive approach will ensure that all aspects of the lettings process are handled with precision and care. Leigh is a keen genealogist and family historian and has helped many people find their birth families and solve their family mysteries.

Paula Hughes – Client Manager – Paula has strong communication skills and an approachable demeanour making her a trusted point of contact for clients, she is committed in maintaining high standards of service and ensuring that clients feel supported and informed every step of the way. When she’s not travelling with her husband, Paula loves music and spends her weekends with friends at concerts or comedy gigs.

Jack Parker-Jones – Faringdon Lettings Negotiatior – Jack is committed to helping landlords and tenants navigate the rental market with ease and confidence, with his ability to build strong relationships along with his friendly approachable demeanour he will provide exceptional service and support throughout the entire process. When not working, Jack enjoys countryside walks with his partner and dog stopping off at a local pub for lunch or dinner.

Emily Sedgwick – Cirencester Lettings Negotiator – Emily’s dedication, enthusiasm and commitment in every aspect of her role and with a strong background in customer service ensures both tenants and landlords receive a smooth letting process. When not working, Emily loves to cook and entertain her family.

Jane Pearce – Cirencester Lettings Administrator – Jane brings her extensive experience and meticulous attention to detail to ensure a smooth operation of the lettings process. Jane plays a crucial role in supporting the team and facilitating seamless transactions between landlords and tenants. Outside of work Jane enjoys horse riding and spending time with her daughters and grand daughter.

Whether you’re interested in a property valuation or want to learn more about rental properties, please give our friendly and experienced team a call, they are here to help you. Click here for contact details.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

With the Labour Party’s recent election victory, Sir Keir Starmer steps up as the new Prime Minister, and as the new government takes shape, landlords will be keen to understand the implications for the rental market.

Post-election, landlords will be closely monitoring Labour’s approach to several pressing issues in the rental market. These include:

Rising Costs: Increased mortgage rates and significant tax changes have reduced returns for many landlords.

Rental Reforms: Although plans to scrap Section 21 evictions were initially dropped, Labour intends to revive them.

Rental Housing Supply: A mismatch between rental supply and demand has led to steep rent increases in some areas.

Energy Efficiency: Previous plans to raise minimum energy efficiency standards were scrapped, but Labour aims to introduce new measures by 2030.

What is Labour’s vision for the Rental Market? Sir Keir Starmer emphasised change during his election campaign and with a strong majority, Labour is now poised to implement its manifesto pledges, particularly those affecting the private rental sector and landlord taxation.

Labour’s Key Promises:

Abolish Section 21 Evictions: Labour plans to ban Section 21 (no-fault) evictions immediately.

Tenant Protections: Empower tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases and ban rental bidding wars (details on this are still pending).

Rent Caps: Cap the amount of rent that can be paid upfront.

Awaab’s Law: Extend this law, which mandates rectifying hazards like mould in social housing to also include private rentals. This will require landlords to fix any health hazards within a specified timeframe.

Energy Efficiency Standards: Introduce new standards by 2030, though the specific EPC rating required is yet to be determined, it is likely to be a C rating.

Gas Boilers: Remove the mandate to replace gas boilers by 2030. No-one will be forced to remove gas boilers as part of the energy efficiency standards.

Taxation under Labour – Labour has pledged not to raise the basic, higher, or additional income tax rates. Corporation tax will stay at 25%, and VAT and National Insurance rates will remain unchanged.

However, landlords should look out for potential increases in capital gains tax rates as Labour seeks alternative funding sources.

What’s next for Rental Reforms? The Conservative government had proposed the Renters’ Reform Bill, which aimed to abolish Section 21 evictions and end fixed-term tenancies. Although the bill was dropped before the election, Labour is committed to scrapping Section 21 evictions immediately, and more details are expected soon.

Key dates for Landlords – After moving into 10 Downing Street, Sir Keir Starmer will form his cabinet. Critical positions for landlords include the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and the Secretary of State for Business and Trade.

Parliament Resumes: July 9, 2024

King’s Speech: July 17, 2024, outlining the government’s policies and new legislation.

Labour Party Conference: September 22-25, 2024, which will indicate the government’s priorities and Starmer’s early performance.

Potential Autumn Budget: October or November 2024, as Labour plans to hold one budget annually instead of alternating spring and autumn budgets.

Call us today for expert advice on letting your property, our experiened team are ready to help and advise.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

Can we Help ? Summer is the perfect time to make a move! Whether you’re looking to sell or let your home, now is the time to maximise your property’s potential and take advantage of the season’s opportunities.

Whether you are thinking about leting your home, downsizing and releasing equity, moving to a larger home or would just like a change, our experienced team are here to help you start your next chapter.

Learn the secrets of our structured plan and marketing strategy for achieving the best price for your property in the shortest amount of time. Perry Bishop’s 11 Step Plan is implemented on every property we sell and it really does work, download your free copy here.

Our team are here to help you start your moving or letting journey and can come out to provide you with an accurate and detailed valuation, or if you’re just interested in getting a quick idea of what your property is worth in a matter of seconds, use our online valuation tool. The choice is yours. Simply click here and leave the rest to us.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to start with a gentler approach to marketing until you have identified a suitable property to move to, you can take advantage of our Market Ready Service.

Contact us today to get started on your summer property journey!

We care about property. We care about you

Author: Elaine Ford

We are often asked whether sellers should find a property to buy before listing their home for sale on the property market. With this in mind, read further to discover expert advice and insights from our experienced agents on the best strategy for your needs.

In our experience, you should list your property for sale before you find a new home.

Why? Read on to find out more.

Having a stronger negotiating position is more likely when you discover the ideal property to purchase. Homeowners in the current climate are unlikely to accept offers from buyers with a property to sell that isn’t yet on the market.

If you list your home for sale, it proves that you are serious about moving. If you already have a purchaser for your home, you’re in an even better position. You’ll be able to make an offer on your chosen property and will be able to confidently proceed with the knowledge that your moving foundations have been firmly established.

Even if you don’t find a property you love straight away, that isn’t a problem. If your home is listed for sale, you have a head start. You don’t need to rush into selling, particularly if you haven’t found another home yet. You also have more time to play with. You have a chance to research new prospective areas and plan what you’re going to do next.

You’ll be contributing to maintaining activity in the local property market – If everyone who ever wanted to move chose to wait until they’d found another property to purchase before listing their property for sale, there would be no homes available for purchase at all! That would lead to an enormous local property market gridlock which would, in turn, impact property prices and delay the process of moving.

What should I do before listing my home For Sale? Getting a valuation for your existing home is the first thing to do if you’re ready to move as this will give you a chance to arrange your budget and finances for the move.

Once you’ve done this, talk to a mortgage advisor who will be able to help you find the right deal to suit your needs. Once you have all this information, it’s time to list your property for sale.

Here are a few things you should do before instructing an estate agent to market your property:

  • Research the areas where you may wish to buy and the type of property you’d like to purchase
  • Stay on top of the local property market
  • Get your paperwork organised and instruct a firm of reputable solicitors. Read here about “Move Ready” which will help speed up the sales process and minimise sale fall throughs.
  • Obtain pre-approval for a mortgage – a Decision in Principle (DIP) to show you are a serious buyer. Click here for Perry Bishop Mortgages.

Our team are highly skilled experts in the property market and can help you find the perfect buyer for your property.

Give us a call today to start your move or click here to book a time and date to suit yourself in our diary for a free no obligation valuation.

We care about property. We care about you.