Selling your property is an exciting but often challenging time. To attract potential buyers and secure an offer, you may be thinking of staging a house on a budget! Indeed, to present your home in the best possible light, home staging is a worthwhile consideration.

While professional staging services can be costly, you don’t need to drain your savings to make your property stand out. In this guide, put together by our team at Perry Bishop we’ll explore budget-friendly tips and strategies for staging your house on a budget when it’s on the market, ensuring it appeals to and catches the eye of prospective buyers.

Maximising Kerb Appeal When Home Staging

First impressions are crucial. When potential buyers drive up to your property, what they see from the outside can greatly influence their perception of your home.

Here are some cost-effective ways to enhance your property’s kerb appeal:

• Tidy up the Exterior – Start by giving your home’s exterior a thorough cleaning. This includes cleaning windows and removing any cobwebs or debris. Also consider a fresh coat of paint on the front door as a bright focal point.
• Landscaping – You don’t need a professional landscaper to spruce up your outdoor space. Trim overgrown bushes, cut the lawn and add some colourful potted plants or flowers near the entrance. These small touches can make a big difference to how your property is perceived.
• Lighting – Consider adding outdoor lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially for evening viewings. Solar-powered lights along the pathway or string lights on the porch are budget-friendly and visually appealing.

Interior Improvements on a Budget

Once you’ve captivated potential buyers with your home’s exterior, it’s time to focus on the interior. Here’s how to make your property look its best without spending a fortune:

• Declutter and depersonalise – Begin by decluttering your home. For example, remove excess furniture, personal items, and anything that makes spaces feel crowded. A clutter-free environment helps potential buyers imagine their own belongings in the space.
• Fresh paint and repairs – A fresh coat of paint can transform a room. Stick to neutral colours like cream, or light grey to appeal to a broad range of buyers. Additionally, tackle any minor repairs such as leaky taps, loose doorknobs, or squeaky hinges.
• Rearrange furniture – You don’t need to buy new furniture to stage your home effectively. Try rearranging your existing furniture to create an open and inviting layout to make a significant difference. Aim for a balanced and spacious feel in each room.

Staged homely touches that make a difference

To truly impress potential buyers, consider adding some homely touches in order to create an emotional connection with the space.

These small investments below can yield significant returns:

• Fresh flowers and greenery – A vase of fresh flowers or a potted plant in the living room or kitchen can add a touch of nature and freshness to your home. After all, who doesn’t like a simple and effective way to make the space feel welcoming!
• Soft furnishings – Invest in some inexpensive throws, pillows, cushions, and decorative blankets to add pops of colour and texture to your furniture. You can also add patterns with curtains or blinds. These accessories can instantly update the look of a room.
• Mood lighting – Good lighting can make your home feel warm and inviting. For example, swap outdated light fixtures for modern, budget-friendly options, and ensure all bulbs are working and emit a soft, pleasant glow.

Marketing your staged Property

Staging your home is just one part of the equation. You also need to effectively market your property to attract potential buyers and estate agents:

• High-quality photos – If your budget allows always invest in a professional photography package to showcase your staged home. High-quality images are essential for online listings and marketing materials. Your estate agent will be able to advise you on this.
• Detailed listings – Before you sign-off the marketing of your property with your estate agent, ensure the property listing includes engaging, accurate and detailed descriptions, highlighting the key features that make your home stand out.
• Open houses and viewings – Allow potential buyers to experience your home in full by creating a welcoming atmosphere. Turn lights on, open windows, light the fire if it’s season appropriate and be prepared to answer any questions.

Create a welcoming and appealing environment

Staging a house on a budget is entirely achievable with some creativity and resourcefulness. Remember, it’s all about creating a welcoming and visually appealing environment that allows potential buyers to imagine themselves living in the property.

If you are thinking of selling your property or would like help with staging your home, get in touch with our experienced team.

Where is your favourite pub or restaurant?  A particular favourite is The Eliot Arms in South Cerney. Great food, lots of nooks and crannies to sit in and soak up the gorgeous atmosphere.

What do you love about the area?   I love Cirencester and its vibe … there are so many fabulous independent shops to explore and always something to do and see.

What do you think is the best view in the area?  There are so many to choose from, but Bourton-on-the-Water bridges are so lovely and probably the most iconic sights in the whole of the Cotswolds.

Where is the best place to relax in the area?  I personally love to potter around the fab antique shop in the Market Place, it’s packed with an array of antique jewellery, Art Deco pieces, tea sets…I can lose myself in there for hours.

How would you spend the perfect day?  Meeting my best friends, who can now come and stay with me over a weekend, walking to the pub for Sunday lunch and a good ole girlie catch up, over a glass or two, of vino.

There are three Key Areas that cause Landlords the most stress

Any landlord in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse will no doubt say that there are pros and cons to being a landlord! However, at Perry Bishop, we’ve found that there are three key things that the landlords we work with think stress them out more than anything else.

Here, we’ll explore these three causes of landlord stress and look at how they can be dealt with.

1. Finding a good Tenant

Almost three-quarters of all landlords believe that finding a good tenant is either moderately difficult or extremely difficult, and it’s fair to say that for first-time landlords especially, this can be the most stressful thing that they have to face.

Our top tip for finding a good tenant is to create a quality listing.

When your listing fails to do the property justice, you’ll find your chances of finding the kind of tenant you have in mind are significantly limited. Clear photographs, a well-crafted description, and a competitive and realistic rental price represent the best ways of placing your property in front of the right kind of tenants.

Of course, while your listing needs to showcase the property, it needs to be accurate and honest too so that tenants get a clear idea of what to expect when they arrive for a viewing. It’s also important to consider your tenant criteria. For example, if you’re seeking student tenants, state it clearly in your property description to avoid wasting everyone’s time.

When prospective tenants start expressing an interest in your property, the next step is to make sure they’re suitable. Will they be able to afford the rental payments? Are they likely to care for your property properly? A comprehensive reference check will give you some reassurance along with taking a holding deposit.

2. Dealing With Maintenance Problems

Dealing with maintenance problems can be another major headache for landlords. It’s the landlord’s responsibility to keep the tenant and the property safe but it’s often difficult to arrange for maintenance work to be carried out, especially if a rapid response is required in an emergency. Not only can it be challenging to find a suitable contractor to deal with the issue, but it’s often difficult to find one who is reliable and who charges an affordable price.

Our top tip for dealing with maintenance is to prepare a list in advance of reliable tradespeople.

List a minimum of two professionals for all maintenance areas. It’s also wise to take out home emergency cover so your tenant will be able to get an immediate response in the event of an emergency.

3. Awareness of Legal responsibilities

Most landlords understand that letting a property comes with some major legal implications. However, understanding all of those responsibilities as well as the actions required isn’t always straightforward. There are over a hundred laws regarding rentals, so it isn’t surprising that this is something that causes landlords a lot of stress.

Safety inspections, deposit protection, notice periods, and property licencing are just some of the legislation you’ll need to be aware of, and new laws are introduced on a regular basis.

Our top tip for staying on top of legislation is to subscribe to property newsletters, join forums and read articles to make sure you stay in the loop and remain up to date with your obligations.

Moving home can be an exciting (yet challenging) endeavour. From packing up your belongings to notifying the right people, there are numerous tasks to tackle. So to help ensure a smooth and stress-free move, our expert team at Perry Bishop have prepared the ultimate checklist to guide you through the process.

Whether you’re a first-time mover or a seasoned pro, our tips and strategies will help you stay organised and help make the journey to your new home less stressful.

Plan Ahead: Create a moving timeline

Start your moving journey by creating a detailed timeline. Once all parties have agreed a completion date start working backwards, allocating specific tasks to each week or day leading up to the move day. This will help you stay on track and avoid any last-minute chaos. Be sure to consider factors such as packing, decluttering, booking removals services, and notifying utility companies.

Declutter and organize

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and simplify your life. Go through each room, sorting items into categories such as keep/donate/sell/discard and consider using online platforms to sell unwanted items. This will help you reduce the number of belongings you need to move and give you a fresh start in your new home. Having a good clear-out is always therapeutic!

Find a reliable Removals Company

Research and book a reputable removal company well in advance. Ask friends and family for recommendations or read online reviews to find a reliable and trustworthy removal firm in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse. Get quotes from at least three removal companies and enquire about their insurance coverage. Ensure they can accommodate your specific requirements.  Give our team a call who will be able to supply you with some recommendations.

Gather packing supplies

Collect or purchase an ample supply of packing materials to ensure a smooth packing process. Stock up on sturdy cardboard boxes (in various sizes), packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. You can also use suitcases, duffel bags, and bins you already own to pack some items, maximising space and minimising costs.

Efficient packing makes unpacking easier!

Pack systematically by tackling one room at a time. Start with areas you use less frequently, such as the attic or spare bedroom and leave rooms you use daily until last. Always label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to, making unpacking much easier later in your new home. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper; use towels or clothing to provide extra padding.

Notify change of addresses

Notify necessary parties about your change of address to ensure a seamless transition. Consider signing up for Royal Mail’s postal re-direction service to forward your post to your new home so that if you do forget someone, you’ll get a prompt when your post arrives! Notify your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other financial institutions and don’t forget to update your address with government agencies, schools, and any subscriptions or memberships you have.

Don’t forget about utilities and services

Arrange disconnections and connections by contacting your utility providers to give final meter readings on your old property and current meter readings on your new home. This includes gas, electricity, water, and broadband/internet services. Coordinate the timings to ensure a smooth transition without interruptions or delays.

Inform relevant educational and medical parties

Notify your children’s schools or educational institutions about your move, ensuring a smooth transition for them as well. If you have pets, update your veterinary practice with your new details or register with a new local practice if necessary. Inform your doctors and other healthcare providers of your new address to ensure continuity of care.

Review your Home Insurance

Review your home contents insurance policy to ensure it covers your belongings during the move. If not, consider purchasing additional coverage or transit insurance specifically for the moving period. Take photos or create an inventory of valuable items before the move for documentation purposes.

Pack an Essentials Box – ‘The First-Night Survival Kit’

Prepare a box of essential items to have on hand for the first night in your new home. This box should include toiletries and loo roll, medications, a change of clothes, bedding, essential documents and basic kitchen supplies such as mugs, kettle, ta, coffere, milk and snacks. Having these essentials easily accessible will save you from rummaging through boxes on the first night.

Are you ready for your next move?

Moving home can be a smooth and organised process with the proper planning and preparation. By following our checklist, you’ll be able to tackle each task efficiently and stay on top of all the necessary details.

When it comes to selling your property in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse, presenting it in the best possible light is essential. As estate agents in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse, we know that not only will a well-prepared property attract more viewings, but it will also increase your chances of achieving a sale more quickly.

In this latest blog post from the Perry Bishop team, we’ve got some expert tips and insights to help you prepare your the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse property for the market.

From decluttering and enhancing kerb appeal to maximising natural light and staging with style, these strategies will ensure your property in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse shines and captivates the interest of prospective buyers.

Declutter and Depersonalise

To showcase your home’s true potential, begin by decluttering and depersonalising each room. Clearing out excess personal items allows potential buyers to envision their own lives in the space. Focus on creating a neutral and inviting canvas that appeals to various tastes.

Consider storing or donating items that may distract buyers or make rooms appear cramped or smaller than they are. By presenting a clutter-free environment, you’ll highlight your property’s features and give buyers the impression of a well-maintained and spacious home.

Boost Kerb Appeal – Make a Lasting First Impression

The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, so it’s crucial to make a positive and lasting first impression. Enhance your home’s kerb appeal by focusing on the following areas:

• Freshen up the front entrance by painting the front door in a welcoming and on-trend colour and replace worn or outdated hardware for a polished look.
• Keep the lawn well-manicured, regularly mow grass, and neatly edge garden beds. Prune bushes and trees to ensure they frame the house without obstructing natural light.
• Clear any debris from driveways and pathways, and consider pressure washing surfaces to remove grime or moss.
• Add charm with potted plants or hanging baskets, and invest in outdoor lighting to create an inviting ambience, especially for evening viewings.

Harness the Power of Natural Light

Natural light plays a significant role in creating a welcoming and spacious atmosphere. Consider the following tips to maximise the brightness in your home:

• Clean windows thoroughly to allow for optimal light penetration. Remove any blinds or curtains that block natural light and replace them with sheer or light-coloured alternatives.
• Trim back overgrown shrubs or trees that may cast shadows and obstruct light from entering the rooms.
• Strategically place mirrors around the rooms to reflect light and make spaces feel larger and brighter. Consider placing them opposite windows to bounce natural light around the room.

Attend to Repairs and Refresh with Paint

Addressing minor repairs and applying a fresh coat of paint where needed will transform your home’s appearance and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers:

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home and fix any visible issues, such as leaky taps, loose handles, or squeaky doors. Buyers will always appreciate a well-maintained home that doesn’t require immediate repairs.

Think about the current colour scheme in your home and consider changing it for more neutral shades that have a broader appeal. Neutral tones help create a versatile backdrop for buyers, which can help them visualise their own décor and style in your property.

Stage with Style

Staging your home effectively will help buyers visualise its full potential and encourage them to create an emotional connection. Consider the following tips to highlight your home’s best features:

• Rearrange furniture to create open and welcoming spaces. Remove any unnecessary items that may make rooms feel cramped or cluttered.
• Add tasteful and inviting elements, such as fresh flowers, artwork, or plumped cushions to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Clearly define the purpose of each room to help buyers envision how they might utilise the space. Showcase functionality, such as transforming a spare room into a cosy guest bedroom or a home office.

Preparing your property for sale requires careful attention to detail and a commitment to showcasing its true potential. By decluttering, boosting kerb appeal, maximising natural light, attending to repairs, and staging with style, you’ll set your home apart in the competitive housing market.

Ready to start the process of preparing your home for sale?

If you are thinking of selling your property in the then please contact our experienced team at Perry Bishop to discuss your requirements and take the first step towards finding your perfect buyer.

Contact us today where you will find our dedicated sales professionals eager to assist you throughout the entire selling process.

Is the housing market in turmoil? Are prices are going to drop, and our monthly mortgage payments are about to go through the roof! If you’re currently trying to sell your property, have you lost hope? Should you abandon your home moving plans and take the property off the market? Read on to find out…

If you’re trying to sell your home, you might think you’d be better off ignoring the news headlines completely. They’re nothing but doom and gloom and will raise the blood pressure of any homeowner trying to sell. But what is the market really like? How do you feel about the sale of your home? What are your agents saying?

It’s fair to say that the market has slowed down somewhat after recent years of chaotic sales, but a slowing down isn’t the same as a crash. We’re not seeing bidding wars or fights for viewing appointments quite like in 2021 and 2022, but that does not mean it is crashing.

The truth is that the market we’ve been experiencing over recent years has not been typical. And whilst it has slowed, the prices and sales are still higher than they were pre-pandemic. We’ve just become used to the hectic market, with homes selling immediately and offers increasing above the asking price. Buyers have been so desperate to secure a property that they have been willing to pay over the odds. This imbalance between supply and demand increased property values and created a sellers’ market.

But does this mean you need to take your home off the market and stay where you are? If the market is no longer a crazy busy sellers’ market, is there any point in trying to move? Of course, there is. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater!

The property market is fluid and constantly changing, and regardless of what new statistics the media are reporting, this is not unusual. This is how the property market has always been and will always continue to be. So, there is no need to make rash decisions, withdrawing your property from the market and, with it, your dreams of a new home.

Instead, it could just be time to regroup, reassess and adjust the marketing of your property to suit the current market conditions.

If the market has changed, your property is no longer priced accurately, and you will be very unlikely to find a buyer, so you must adjust your pricing to match the changes in the market.

This may be a bitter pill to swallow if you’ve been watching house prices skyrocket over recent years, but you must be realistic. If the market has changed, you’ll be unlikely to sell at a price that isn’t in line with these changes, and so your pricing must follow suit.

Fundamentally, if you’re stubbornly trying to hold on to the price that your home was valued at during a booming market, you aren’t likely to be able to find a buyer, so you may as well take your home off the market and make peace with the fact that you are staying put. After all, prices don’t tend to rise very quickly under normal circumstances, so it could be years before the value of your property reaches your goal figure again.

But if you still have hopes of selling your home and moving on to pastures new, then you may need to be realistic and assess whether your home is correctly priced in today’s market, not the market of 12 months ago. And remember, properties always sell. People will need somewhere to live, regardless of the market conditions. You need to price your home in line with the market to find your buyer.

You need to consider that you put your home on the market for a reason, whatever that was, and that problem that you have will not go away simply because the housing market has experienced a correction. The value of a property is only confirmed when a buyer has made an acceptable offer; until that point, it is really just an estimate.

Try to forget about the dizzying heights of property values of last year and think about today. And remember that any seller you buy from is in the same boat as you, trying to sell their home in an adjusting market. They, too, will likely have had to compromise on the value of their home because they, too, can remember the values of recent years that are simply not there anymore.

Market corrections are not necessarily bad; lower prices mean you are not so stretched with mortgages and deposits or stamp duty tax. But they can be caused by many factors, most of which are entirely out of your control, such as the economy, the mortgage lenders’ criteria, interest rates and inflation.

Due to the rising cost of living and the increasing inflation rate, buyers and mortgage lenders are being a little more cautious. We have quickly seen a shift from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market almost across the whole country. This simply means that more properties are available on the market than buyers are looking to buy. So, you are now competing with the other properties on the market to attract those few available buyers, and this usually comes down to price.

If you’re on the market and losing hope or struggling to sell, contact our team of property experts, who can advise you on the best way to navigate this tricky market and get your home sold.

An online modern auction can often be the best method for selling a property – getting the best price and a quick sale that is certain.

Shrivenham sold at £670,000 from a guide of £500,000 

Ampney Crucis sold at £388,000 from a guide of £295,000