Author: Elaine Ford

Downsizing your home is likely to become more common. Some of the reasons for it are to release equity or pay off a mortgage. Maybe you’ve become an empty nester, or would prefer a bungalow, or you’re looking to lower your running costs.

When should you do it, what do you need to consider and what are the costs? Here’s a “downsizing your home checklist” and some advice to help you.

What does downsizing mean?

Put simply, downsizing is selling up your home and moving to something smaller.

Why do people downsize to a smaller home?

Typically, downsizing is associated with people between the ages of 65 and 69, but this doesn’t have to be the case, personal circumstances as well as the following points can dictate a lot. However, it isn’t limited to the retirement community!

Downsizing can be a good way to save money, on everything from mortgage payments to maintenance. Particularly for those who feel their living space is too large, for example their family home, downsizing can be an attractive option.

Smaller spaces are appealing to those with fewer family members to share with.

When should you downsize?

Property price increases often mean increased equity, so it can be a great time to downsize and cash-in on your home. Figures in April 2018 from Legal & General (L&G) show the number considering downsizing is 39% – nearly two in five homeowners!

A better choice of mortgage quotes has encouraged more last-time buyers to move. In theory, this is great news, as it will free up much-needed housing stock for people lower down the property ladder. But downsizing can be challenging, and like any home buying decision it can often require compromise.

Help downsizing your home: what to consider

You’ll not be surprised to read location is a crucial consideration. It can add value to your home, and determine how happy you’ll be living there

What is your budget? You may not have a full time salary anymore and your savings may have to last a long time!

There’s no denying it – the cost of moving can be high, so ask if you can you afford it?

Take note of the local market, is there demand from buyers? Are properties selling quickly or do they seem to be sticking? Do you think you will get a fair price for your home or might you have to accept a lower offer to move when you want?

Other downsizing home factors to consider

These aren’t the only things to consider in the downsizing process. Here are some more points:

  • What storage space will you need? If it’s less than your current home then it’s time to declutter. Always take care to ensure the floor plan is accurate
  • Increasingly, downsizers have elderly relatives too – it may be cheaper to have them at home than in care. Or maybe you expect regular visits from family and friends? You’ll need to factor in the extra requirement
  • Are you looking for a switch from urban to rural or vice versa?
  • Is being part of a community essential or do you want solitude?
  • Transport links may be vital, as you get older and might not be able to drive – is the area you’re looking at well served?
  • Do you want to stay close to friends and family?

Don’t forget to weigh up these considerations carefully before you prepare to move.

If you need more help, call our experienced team who are on hand to help with any questions or book in your free, no obligation valuation. Click here for contact details.

Article courtesy of Phil Spencer.

Author: Elaine Ford

The process of selling your home can be daunting, simply because there is so much to consider and plan. It can be especially stressful if you aren’t getting enough viewings on your property, and when you’ve had your home listed for sale for a while, that stress can rise. Read below to discover how to get more viewings.

Homes that are well-marketed and presented will get more viewings – Therefore receive offers from interested buyers. The longer your property stays on the market without any offers, the less chance you have of getting any without taking drastic measures such as reducing the price of the property.

So, before it reaches that point, there are some steps that both you and our team at Perry Bishop can take to entice people to view and to get your property sold faster.

With this in mind, we have created a handy guide to help you attract more property viewings.

Improve Your Kerb Appeal – The kerb appeal of your property, i.e., the first impression made when standing on the kerb, plays a big role in garnering interest for potential buyers, not just for those who are passing by in person, but for people browsing your listing online.

How your property looks on the outside can either deter or encourage people to continue looking at the listing and help them decide whether or not to come and view in person.

You can improve your kerb appeal by taking care of your lawn and front garden. Make sure the grass is cut, weeds are pulled, and flower beds and shrubs are tidy and groomed. Also, make sure to remove any debris like leaves or fallen branches.

Fixing any damages can help, too, like repairing roof tiles that have blown away or mending broken gutters. A fresh coat of paint on any woodwork may also be required if the paint is peeling or worn, as it makes the home look refreshed and clean.

Use Professional staging and photos – It’s important to keep in mind that potential buyers are looking for a property they can see themselves in and call home.

A house empty of furniture doesn’t evoke much in the way of imagining a lifestyle, and similarly, a messy or dishevelled home can give off a bad impression.

Clearing away clutter and having a professional stage your furniture can do wonders for your potential buyers trying to imagine a life in their new home.

It’s also common for people using online agencies to attempt to take their own photos of their property for the listing, and ending up with dark, dingy, or even blurry images. Without the right equipment or photography know-how, the photos won’t stack up against other listings.

Your photos are a crucial part of the marketing of your property, and they need to be eye-catching and attractive. Your home should be accurately captured in these images; otherwise, nobody will be interested in taking the time to come and see it in person.

The investment in professional photography to help sell your home is worth it and here at Perry Bishop we use state-of-the-art drone photography and will capture photographs of your property from unique angles, highlighting its location and surrounding landscape, captivating viewers, and drawing their attention to your listing amidst the sea of ordinary photographs.

Make your property listing look flawless – The fundamentals of your property listing when it is seen online are so important in attracting viewers.

At the most basic level, your listing should look perfect – photos should be sized properly for the website, titles should be typo-free, and descriptions should be filled out in full. Furthermore, the title and description need to be well-written and free of marketing jargon.

We understand that interesting and compelling descriptions can make all the difference alongside a strong call to action which will encourage viewers to click to read more or call us to book a viewing.

At Perry Bishop, our experienced team work with our clients to ensure we maximise viewings on every property we have the pleasure of marketing. Call us today to arrange a free no obligation valuation or for more information as to how we can ensure your propety stands out from the crowd.

Author: Elaine Ford

Are you planning on giving your home a makeover? Maybe it’s time to ditch that tired old rug and sofa you’ve been hanging on to for years and drag your home into a brand new year? For inspiration, here are some of the top interior trends that we absolutely love!

Vintage

Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways in which to make their homes stand out, instead of the usual mass-produced, flat-pack furniture that’s functional but not unique. Think antique sideboards and cabinets in dark shades of brown.

And the more unique the story is behind it, the better! Mooch around antique shops to find that perfect quirky piece.

Sustainable

As a society, we’re more aware than ever of the damage that’s being done to our planet, and that’s reflected in the growing trend of buying individual items of furniture, instead of mass-produced products.

This also ties in with the vintage trend. Furniture that was built 50 years ago not only has its own story, but it will also have been built to last. A few scratches add to its character and it won’t fall apart and get discarded so easily.

Multi-functional space

With the huge increase in people working from home, our houses have increasingly become our offices too.

For those who aren’t lucky enough to have a dedicated space for a home office, the demand for multi-functional furniture is increasing.

Consequently, items such as storage ottomans are perfect for using as both a footrest at the end of a long day and also a place to store your laptop and any paperwork out of sight in the evening.

Minimalist

Not only have people been working from home more, they’ve also been spending more time at home in general, with many living rooms serving as an office, gym and bar at times, often on the same day!

As a result of this increased time spent indoors, the desire to declutter and make more use of the space available will be a growing trend.

This also relates to the trend of having multi-functional furniture and space.

Natural Materials

Furniture that’s made from natural materials is also set to be a big hit, with designers constantly coming up with new ways of combining natural materials.

This can be anything from wood and marble to ceramics and metals as designers combine textures and styles.

Earthy Colours

One of the biggest trends set to drop is the use of earthy colours such as mustards, greens, beiges, blues and browns.

Colours that we associate with nature and the outdoors are going to be popular as people continue to reconnect with the outside environment and try to bring it into their homes.

Shades of Pink

Love them or hate them, soft and neutral shades of pink are another top trend when it comes to colours.

It’s light and airy, which gives rooms a more spacious feel, and it goes with most other colours, so finding furniture to complement the colour scheme will be easy.

Ocean Waves and Distant Shores

The increased time we’ve all spent indoors has heightened many people’s longing to get away and take a break, and that’s reflected in the trend for colours that relate to soft sea blues and cloudless skies.

Blue is also a very tranquil and calming colour, so it’s perfect for anyone who’s spending more time indoors and looking to destress.

House Plants

Following on from the trend for earthy colours, indoor plants are also back in fashion.

Not only do plants add colour and life to a room, they also freshen the air and bring the outdoor environment into the home.

And with such a wide variety of plants to choose from, there’s something suitable for any room in the house.

Individuality

It’s not just vintage furniture that’s trending, any items that could be considered unique and individual are currently in fashion.

As we’ve been spending more time in our homes and less time in the office and out socialising, there’s a noticeable shift towards stamping our own imprint on our homes. Rather than go for the tried and trusted functional furniture that we might have previously chosen, there’s an increasing trend towards individual furniture that reflects our own personalities.

Think animal-shaped lamps and tropical theme light shades for example, or bright and bold statement rugs.

Call our experienced team today if you are thinking about your next move.

Author: Elaine Ford

A fundamental mistake landlords make is choosing not to use a reliable property management company. There is a common misconception that managing a property independently will save landlords money. In fact, it often turns out to be a false economy, read below to find out the benefits of letting your property using propety management.

There are many benefits to using a Property Management Company

Many landlords in the come to us once they realise how challenging it can be to deal with all aspects of property management themselves and soon begin to recognise the benefits that using a property manager will bring.

Here we’ll look at the benefits of using a Property Management Company.

A single point of contact for tenants

Rather than having to deal with your tenants yourself, your trusted property management company will be able to resolve any problems and issues arising on your behalf. Property management companies offer a 24-hour service, so they are available to help when you are unavailable. Handling tenant complaints when letting your property can be stressful, but management companies will handle matters without you needing to involve yourself directly.

Reduced Tenant turnover

Thanks to the practical, effective, and speedy services that your property management company will provide, the chances of high tenant turnover become much lower. If any changes occur on your side, such as a rent increase, your tenants are likely to be more prepared to co-operate when they know they’re in safe hands

A lower chance of legal problems

If you’re unlucky enough to experience a problem tenant, you can find legal issues mount up over time, costing you money and time. A property management company will be familiar with the most recent legislation and will be able to handle legal matters appropriately and efficiently on your behalf.

Timely rent collection

When you use the services of a property management company, you won’t need to worry about collecting your rent payments yourself. This can be a relief if you have difficult tenants. If they fail to make payment on time, a property management company will enforce the lease policies, taking appropriate steps to ensure that you’re fully covered.

Reduced maintenance costs

When you use a property management company, you will be able to take advantage of their maintenance provision team, who will keep your property in excellent working order. This is a far cheaper alternative to hiring external professionals every time something needs fixing. Also, the property management maintenance team will be familiar with your tenants and ensure all work is carried out professionally and correctly.

Why use a Property Management Company

As a landlord dealing with all your tenants’ issues with no professional assistance can be highly stressful and time-consuming. The ideal solution is to use a trusted local property management company. You’ll experience far less stress and will be sure to enjoy excellent value for money, with reduced tenant turnover and maximised rental revenue.

Get in touch with our experienced team today to find out more about the property management services we offer.

Author: Elaine Ford

In 1957, interest rates jumped significantly meaning mortgage rates were 7.5%. If you waited for interest rates to go down to what they were 18 months before, you wouln’t have purchased a home until 2008.

You would have rented for 51 years waiting for rates to go down. Meanwhile the value of property increased by 9.351% (that is not a typo)

Don’t wait to buy property

Buy property and wait

Perry Bishop offer free valuations, so it won’t cost you a penny! Click here to book a time that is convenient for you.

Credit Christopher Watkin

Author: Elaine Ford

We know that most sellers don’t want to be disturbed during the festive period when those that can, spend time with their families and closest friends.

You may be putting off coming to the market until the new year, but have you considered that you will likely miss out on the flurry of activity from buyers on the property portals between Christmas and New Year? Rightmove data reveals that the period between Boxing Day and the New Year was its busiest on record for home-mover activity, as both prospective buyers and sellers make it their resolution to move in the new year.

Our ‘Do Not Disturb’ campaign is aimed to help you. Instruct us to sell your home before the Christmas decorations go up and we will get you ‘market ready’ with professional photographs, sales brochure, and all the paperwork complete and ready to launch onto our website and the property portals at Christmas to catch the attention of active buyers.

Our campaign means we will not need to disrupt your Christmas plans and you can relax and enjoy every moment knowing you are one step ahead of the competition.

Contact us today to book your valuation and take your first step towards your move in the New Year.

Author: Elaine Ford

So, you need to sell your property and you’re wondering which is the right path for you. Auctions have their benefits, but so does selling via an estate agent, so which is better for your situation?  If you’re wondering whether you should sell your home via auction vs an estate agent, here’s an overview of the pros and cons to help you decide.

Selling at Auction

What Are the Cons of Selling at Auction?

Let’s get some of the negatives out of the way first. Selling at auction may be quick, but it does come with some risks and downsides, including:

Added fees: There could be added fees when selling at auction that can make it a more expensive option. You’ll need to instruct a solicitor to prepare a legal pack before you sell. Plus, you’ll need to pay the auctioneer’s marketing and commission fees.

Limited buying pool: Buying a property at auction isn’t the traditional route, so your buying pool is already limited. Plus, auctions have a reputation for ‘hard to sell’ or fixer-upper properties, which can attract low-paying buyers looking for a great deal.

It doesn’t sell first time: A good auctioneer should drum up interest from the right kind of buyers. If they don’t market your property well enough, your property may not sell first-time around.

What Are the Pros of Selling at Auction?

Despite the cons, there are lots of benefits to selling your property at auction, including:

Quick turnaround: Auctions are renowned for their quick turnaround. Usually, they require completion just a month after the winning bid.

Low risk of fall-through: When the gavel hits, your buyer is committed. They pay a hefty deposit on the spot and immediately sign the contracts. Even though they could still pull out, it’s highly unlikely.

Inspires competition: An experienced auctioneer can inspire a healthy amount of competition for your property. If this happens, your property could sell for more than you think. However, getting a good deal isn’t guaranteed when selling at auction, so be wary of any auctioneer that promises such things!

Selling a Property Via an Estate Agent

What Are the Cons of Selling Via an Estate Agent?

Not cons exactly, but if you are considering the traditional method of sale, there are some things you’ll need to take into account:

Estate agent fees: Just like auctions have fees, you’ll still have to pay for the services provided by your estate agent.

Security of sale: Good estate agents take measures to prevent gazumping. But, since buyers aren’t charged an instant deposit like they are at an auction, there’s less security in the sale going through.

Time: Selling via an estate agent can be a quick process. But it’s highly unlikely it’ll ever be as quick as an auction house!

What Are the Pros of Selling via an Estate Agent?

It all depends on your situation. If you have time to work with an estate agent, it will mean:

Less admin: Estate agents make life easier. They prepare the property listing, take photos, market your home, organise viewings, answer countless enquiries on your behalf and ensure the sale progresses smoothly. Auctioneers can lend a hand, but it won’t be as in-depth as an estate agent.

Higher selling prices: Usually, you can get more value when you sell your home via an estate agent compared with an auction. Unlike auctions that have a limited buying pool, everyone’s at the table when selling via an estate agent!

More control: Even though you can set a reserve price at an auction, there’s no telling how much your property could sell for. Selling via an estate agent gives you full control over the price you get.

Need Help Deciding?

Download our Auction Guide.

We’d love to have a chat with you. Our property experts are here to help you decide which route is best for selling your home. Give us a call today.

Author: Elaine Ford

Your first port of call is likely to be an estate agent to help you determine the value of your home. But do you ever wonder what’s going on behind the scenes during that all-important valuation appointment?  Let’s unravel the mystery and look at what estate agents are really looking for when they’re calculating your the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse property’s worth.

‘How to value my house‘: First Steps

Before we get into the valuation process, let’s talk about how you can get a rough valuation figure. As your local estate agents, we offer instant online valuations, giving you an estimate based on factors like property type, postcode, and the number of bedrooms. Yet, for a clear-cut understanding of what your property could fetch, we recommend an in-person valuation.

What does it cost to know my home’s worth?

Perry Bishop offer free valuations, so it won’t cost you a penny! Click here to book a time that is convenient for you.

Property Valuation

So, how do estate agents value a property, especially in a competitive market? It’s not just about location or square footage; we will look at a multitude of factors that can make or break your property’s market appeal.

The Key Factors:

First Impressions: Kerb appeal matters everywhere, but in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse, it’s crucial. Spruce up your exterior to make your home stand out.

Condition Matters: A home in pristine condition could earn you top pound, especially in a demanding market.

The Power of the Postcode: The right postcode can add significant value to your property. Proximity to good transport links and top schools is a big plus.

Trending Property Types: Whether it’s a Victorian townhouse or a modern flat, certain styles may be more in demand depending on ever-changing market trends.

Functional Layouts: In an area where space is at a premium, a well-designed layout can hike up your property’s value.

Comparing Apples to Apples: How do estate agents value a property? By comparing it to similar, recently sold properties in your area! Knowledge of the local market is key.

Room for Growth: If you’ve secured planning permission for extensions or renovations, you’re already ahead of the game. these will factor this into the valuation.

Quick Property Valuation Prep Tips

  • Consider de-cluttering: Remember that less is more and every square foot counts.
  • Garden grooming: If outdoor space is at a premium, making sure your garden or balcony is in tip-top shape can add significant appeal.
  • Documentation is King: Having all your paperwork in order can make the valuation process smoother.
  • Stage your home: Staging your home to look its best can give you an edge. Consider simple additions like fresh flowers or setting the dining table.
  • Fix minor repairs: Small things like a leaky tap or squeaky door can be off-putting. Take care of these little issues to present your home in the best possible light.
  • Keep it neutral: A neutral colour scheme can make your home more appealing. Consider a fresh coat of paint in neutral tones to brighten up the space.
  • Highlight unique features: If your property has any unique or luxurious features make sure they are clean, accessible, and well-lit during the valuation.
  • Check security features: Make sure all security systems are functional. A well-secured home can add to its market value.

Adding these prep tips into your strategy could make a world of difference in how your property is valued.

In Conclusion

When wondering ‘how to value my house’, understanding the whole valuation process is invaluable. Prep your property wisely, and when it’s time to make your next move, you’ll do so with the confidence that you’ve got the best possible valuation.

Do you have questions about how we carry out valuations? Fire away, we are here to help you achieve the best possible price for your home. Contact us today.

Author: Elaine Ford

When the temperature drops and days grow shorter, ‘how do I prepare my house for winter’ is a common question we hear as the chill begins to set in.  While it’s a season of celebration, it’s also a crucial time for homeowners to ensure their properties in are adequately prepared for the icy months ahead. From insulation to heating maintenance, proper winter home preparation can save you money and keep you warm and safe.

We’ve got 5 tips for you to ensure you stay cosy!

  • Inspect and insulate your home
  • Maintain your boiler and heating
  • Keep on top of outdoor maintenance
  • Have emergency supplies handy
  • Seal windows and doors
1. Inspect and insulate your home

Check home insulation

If you’re wondering ‘how do I prepare my house for winter?’, first things first! Inspect your home’s insulation, particularly in the loft, walls, and around windows and doors. Improving your home’s insulation not only helps you stay warm but can significantly cut down on energy bills.

Use draught excluders

Investing in draught excluders for doors and windows is a cost-effective way to keep the warmth in and the cold air out. Simple DIY solutions like weatherstrips fitted to doors and windows can also go a long way in winter home preparation.

2. Boiler and heating maintenance

Boiler Check-up

To avoid waking up to a cold home due to a boiler breakdown, get your boiler serviced by a qualified engineer. Regular boiler maintenance ensures your heating system runs efficiently and safely.

Bleed radiators

Ensure you bleed your radiators to release any trapped air, making sure they work effectively. Also, consider installing reflective panels behind radiators to direct heat into the room. Knowing how to bleed radiators is essential winter safety advice.

3. Outdoor maintenance

Clean gutters

Blocked gutters can cause water damage and dampness. Clean out leaves, moss, and other debris from your gutters and downpipes to ensure proper drainage. This outdoor winter home preparation is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your property.

Trim trees

If you have trees close to your property in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse, make sure to trim any overhanging branches. These can become hazardous in high winds or under the weight of snow, so don’t skip this winter gutter cleaning tip.

4. Emergency supplies

Create a Winter Emergency Kit
Compile an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, and torches. A well-prepared winter emergency kit is invaluable in case of power outages or severe weather conditions.

Check batteries in safety devices

Ensure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are fully operational. Replace batteries if needed, as these devices are especially vital in winter when heaters and fires are in regular use. Don’t overlook this winter safety tip.

5. Seal windows and doors

Caulking and Sealing

Examine windows and doors for cracks and seal them with silicone or caulk to prevent heat loss. Additionally, pay special attention to window sills, door frames, and skirting boards, as this kind of window sealing is an essential winter home preparation tip in the UK.

Upgrade to double glazing

If your budget allows, upgrading to double glazing can dramatically improve your home’s thermal efficiency. The benefits of double glazing in winter go beyond aesthetics, saving you money in the long run.

Winter in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse can be harsh, but a well-prepared home can provide comfort, safety, and cost-efficiency. By asking yourself ‘how do I prepare my house for winter’ and taking the time to inspect, maintain, and upgrade where necessary, you can ease into the cold months with peace of mind.

If a move is on the horizon, contact our experienced team.

Author: Elaine Ford

Are you thinking of investing in buy to let property in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Becoming a landlord can be a rewarding venture, and in this guide, will walk you through the ins and outs of what could be an exciting journey for you.

1. Buy-to-Let basics for aspiring the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse Landlords

Let’s kick things off by covering the fundamentals:

What is Buy-to-Let?

Investing in buy to let is where you purchase a property to rent it out to tenants.

Location matters

Location is key so research and choose an area with potential for rental demand. Consider factors like proximity to schools, public transport, and employment opportunities. Think about what you’d want as a tenant, and that’s likely what others are looking for too.

Budgeting

Calculate your budget carefully, considering not only the purchase price but also ongoing costs like maintenance and tax. Remember, investing in buy-to-let is a long game. You want to be prepared for the journey ahead. Create a budget that allows for unforeseen expenses.

Purchase Price

Start by setting a budget for the property purchase. Consider whether you’ll buy a property outright or opt for a buy-to-let mortgage.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as legal fees, stamp duty, and property surveys. These can add up, so it’s crucial to plan for them from the beginning.

2. Why location matters for the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse rental properties
Property Type

Consider the type of property you want to invest in, such as apartments, houses, or student accommodation. Different types have different pros and cons.

Apartments can be a great entry point for new landlords. They often require less maintenance, and you can start with a smaller investment.

Houses offer more space and potential for higher rental income. However, they may require more maintenance.

In a university town, student accommodation can be lucrative. There is often consistent demand, especially in areas with large universities.

Research and Due Diligence

Don’t rush; do thorough research on the local property market and understand the demand for rental properties. Additionally, look at historical rental data, vacancy rates, and property price trends. Attend local property auctions and check online listings to get a feel for the market.

Local Market Analysis

It’s important to understand the demand for rental properties, average rental prices, and the competitiveness in the area.

Property Viewings

Before making a buy-to-let purchase, thoroughly assess the condition of the property. Look for potential issues that might require costly repairs in the future.

Consider Future Growth

Look for areas with potential for future growth and development. Such areas often see property values increase over time.

3. Financing Your Investment

Money matters! Here’s how to make it work.

Mortgages

Explore buy-to-let mortgages, designed specifically for landlords. These often require a larger deposit and have higher interest rates compared to regular mortgages. Compare rates and terms to find the best deal. Always consult with a mortgage broker for expert advice – contact our experienced team for recommendations.

Interest Rates

Pay attention to interest rates, as they can significantly impact your monthly mortgage payments. Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability, while variable rates may offer lower initial costs.

Deposit

Plan for a solid deposit, typically around 25% of the property’s value. A larger deposit can lower your mortgage repayments and improve your overall return on investment.

LTV Ratio

The Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio is the percentage of the property’s value covered by your mortgage. Lower LTV ratios can result in better mortgage deals.

Contingency Fund

Always have a financial cushion for unexpected expenses or void periods without tenants. You never know when a boiler might need repairs or when your property might be temporarily vacant. Having a contingency fund provides peace of mind and financial stability.

Emergency Fund

Your contingency fund should cover not only property-related expenses but also personal emergencies. It’s wise to have at least three to six months’ worth of mortgage payments saved.

4. Tenant Selection and Management

Now, let’s talk about the heart of the matter – your tenants.

Tenant Screening

Conduct thorough background checks and interviews to ensure responsible tenants. Request references from previous landlords and employers. Additionally, look for a track record of paying rent on time and treating properties with care.

Credit Checks

Run credit checks to assess the financial stability of potential tenants. A good credit history indicates a responsible tenant.

Interview Process

Interview prospective tenants to get to know them better. Ask about their rental history, employment, and reasons for moving.

Legal Responsibilities

Familiarise yourself with landlord responsibilities, including safety checks, deposits, and maintenance. The UK has strict regulations in place to protect both landlords and tenants. Make sure you’re compliant to avoid legal issues down the line.

Deposit Protection

Safeguard tenant deposits in a government-approved deposit protection scheme. This ensures fairness and transparency in deposit return procedures.

Repairs and Maintenance

Be prompt in addressing repair requests and conducting routine maintenance to keep the property in good condition.

Gas Safety Checks

Ensure that gas appliances are safe and have annual safety checks performed by a Gas Safe registered Engineer.

Electrical Safety Checks

Every rented property should have its electrical installations inspected and tested by a qualified electrician.This is to obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). It’s crucial to provide tenants with a copy of this report.

Property Management in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse

Managing tenants and properties can be time-consuming, so consider your available time and expertise. Letting agencies like Perry Bishop can handle everything from finding tenants to maintenance.

Letting Agencies in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse

Letting agencies can save you time and handle many landlord responsibilities when you are investing in buy to let properties. Importantly, as professionals, they have experience in tenant sourcing, referencing, and lease management.

DIY Management

If you choose to manage the property yourself, be prepared for tenant enquiries, maintenance co-ordination, and rent collection. Good organisation and communication skills are essential.

Building a Community of Landlords

Investing in buy-to-let properties can sometimes feel like a solo journey, but you’re not alone. Consider joining local landlord associations or online communities where you can:

  • Share experiences and advice with fellow landlords. Learn from their successes and mistakes.
  • Stay updated on changes in UK landlord laws and regulations. Laws can change, and it’s essential to stay informed to protect your investment.
  • Network and even find potential investment opportunities through connections. You never know when you’ll come across an excellent investment opportunity through your network.

By following these key steps and being part of a supportive community of landlords, you’re well on your way to success.

Remember, every landlord started somewhere, and it’s okay to seek guidance along the way.

Take the next steps to becoming a successful landlord

If you’re investing in buy to let, we can help. Perry Bishop are your local Property Management and Letting experts in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse.

Contact us for a no obligation chat, our knowledgeable and professional team are here to help.

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