Author: Elaine Ford

Calling all young artists! 🖍️✨ Get your colouring pencils ready because we’re holding a super fun Easter Egg Colouring Competition!

🎨 How to Enter:

1️⃣ Pick up a colouring sheet from any Perry Bishop OR download and print one at home.

2️⃣ Let your creativity shine – colour, decorate, and make your egg as bright and beautiful as you like! 🌈

3️⃣ Drop your masterpiece back to us by 16th April 2025 to be displayed in our windows for all to see (Can you please add a contact number to the rear side so we are able to contact the winner).

4️⃣ Winner to be announced on 23rd April 2025

🐰🐣 Every child who enters will receive a small prize as a thank-you for taking part! Plus, our judges will select the Top 3 most creative designs, and those lucky winners will receive special prizes for their amazing artwork! 🐰🐣

🎨🌸 Visit any of our branches to join the fun!

Spread the word – let’s fill our windows with colourful Easter cheer! 🐣💛

 

Author: Elaine Ford

Don’t forget to join us for the Sue Ryder Spring Fayre – a wonderful day filled with fun, community, and fundraising! 🎉

Can’t make it on the day? You can still support this amazing cause by donating via our JustGiving page

 

Author: Elaine Ford

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape the rental market, strengthening tenant protections and changing landlord responsibilities. Here’s what we know so far and how it will affect you.

What we know so far – Introduced to Parliament on the 11th September 2024, the bill has quite a few implications for landlords tenants and letting agents.

These include:

  • The abolishment of no fault Section 21 evictions
  • There will be more grounds for possession in Section 8
  • Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST’s) will be replaced with periodic tenancies
  • Section 13 notices being the only way to increase rent
  • Ending to rent bidding wars
Abolition of Section 21 No Fault Evictions

The Government believe that abolishing this will end arbitrary evictions. This will give renters more security and stability.

What this means is that Section 8 will become the primary mechanism for evicting tenants when the Renters Rights Bill becomes law.

New mandatory grounds will be added and there will be changes to the discretionary grounds to help landlords get their properties back.

Mandatory Grounds

  • Ground 1 (Amended) – If the landlord or a family member want to move in once the tenancy has exceeded 12 months.
  • Ground 1a (Amended) – If the landlord wants to sell the property this can be used once the tenancy has exceeded 12 months.
  • Ground 2 – If the mortgage company wishes to repossess the property.
  • Ground 2za – 2zd (New) – If the leasehold ends and the landlord doesn’t own the freehold.
  • Ground 4 – If the property was let to a student by an Education Institute for 12 month fixed term.
  • Ground 4a (New) – For student landlords who need the property back for the next academic year.
  • Ground 5 – If the landlord is a Religious Institution and needs a minister to live in it.
  • Ground 6 – If the landlord wishes to demolish or redevelop the property making it currently unliveable.
  • Ground 6a (New) – If the landlords needs the property back due to an enforcement order.
  • Ground 7 – If the tenant passes away, however this cannot be used if there is a surviving spouse living in the property.
  • Ground 7a – If the tenant has committed serious anti-social behaviour
  • Ground 7b – If the tenant does not have a Right to Rent – for example their VISA expires
  • Ground 8 (Amended) – If the tenant has fallen into at least 3 months arrears, if monthly, or 13 weeks if weekly/fortnightly
Discretionary Grounds

  • Ground 9 – If the landlord has provided like for like accommodation for the current tenancy.
  • Ground 10 – If the tenant is in arrears, but less than ‘Ground 8’.
  • Ground 11 – If the tenant persistently pays rent late but is not in arrears
  • Ground 12 – If the tenant breaches the tenancy agreement but is not in arrears
  • Ground 13 – If the tenant has neglected or deteriorated the property
  • Ground 14 – If the tenant is a nuisance or annoyance to neighbours or is using the property for illegal or immoral activity.
  • Ground 14a (New) – Social landlords can evict a domestic violence proprietor if the victim has fled.
  • Ground 14za (New) – if the tenant at the property has been convicted of an indictable offence during a UK riot.
  • Ground 15 – The tenant damages furniture provided by the landlord.
  • Ground 17 – The tenant was given the tenancy with a false statement.
  • Ground 18 (New) – If the tenancy has been provided for supported accommodation and is refusing support.
Assured Shorthold Tenancies will become Periodic

When the Bill becomes law, all Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST’s) will instantly become periodic. Any tenancy that is signed now until that date will be affected, as well as existing tenancies.

Tenants will have to give two moths notice to end the tenancy.

Tenancies will operate on a rolling monthly tenancy and there will be no minimum term for new or existing tenancies. This means that tenants can leave at any point as long the correct notice is given.

This will be introduced to given tenants more freedom to leave sub-standard properties.

Tenancy agreements will still exist so the rules and regulations are abided by, but there will be no fixed dates.

Rent Increases with a Section 13

After the abolition of AST’s, Section 13 will become the only mechanism for rent increases, as there will be no renewal of the tenancy.

Landlords will need to provide two months notice of any proposed rent increase (at the moment it’s one month) and this can only be once every 12 months.

Ending Rent Bidding Wars

Once the Renters Right Act is in place landlords will only be able to accept the advertised rent and not offers over. In most cases this is a rare occurrence.

Other Changes

As landlords in England, you will be required to register your property on a Government Portal and upload all compliance documents annually. We do not know the finer details of this at the moment, but failure to comply will have hefty fines.

As agents, if we manage your property, we will do this for you and ensure you are safe, compliant and legal.

As all of this is still going through the House of Commons and House of Lords we will keep you updated.

We believe the date this will be implemented will be between May 2025 and September 2025.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape the rental market, strengthening tenant protections and changing landlord responsibilities. Stay ahead of the changes and protect your investment by letting us handle everything for you. If we manage your property, you can relax knowing we take care of all the complexities, so you don’t have to.

Get in touch today to find out how we can make renting stress-free for you!

 

Author: Elaine Ford

We understand the challenges of organising outdoor events and the need for suitable equipment to ensure success. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer our complimentary gazebo borrowing service.

Whether you are organising a school fete, charity fundraiser, a family gathering or any other outdoor event, our Gazebo (measuring 4 meters x 3.5 meters) can create an additional welcoming space.

Last year, a variety of charities, schools, and community organisations benefited from using our gazebo, helping to make their events more comfortable and enjoyable.

 

If you are interested in booking the gazebo, please email gazebo@perrybishop.co.uk and we will be more than happy to coordinate delivery to your event, subject to availability.

Kind Regards
Perry Bishop

Author: Elaine Ford

Come and join us for a fun filled day at Sue Ryder Leckhampton and help support this incredible cause on Saturday 22nd March.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

With the Stamp Duty increase fast approaching in March, time is running out to secure your next home before costs rise. The only way to guarantee a swift, hassle-free move is to buy a brand-new home!

🏡 Cotswold Homes has stunning properties ready to move into now at Great Somerford and Down Ampney, meaning you can complete before the deadline and avoid paying more.

Why choose new?
  • No onward chain – a smoother, faster transaction
  • Move-in ready – no delays, no costly renovations
  • Energy-efficient – lower bills from day one
Don’t miss this opportunity!
📞 Contact us today to book a viewing and make your move before the Stamp Duty changes take effect!

 

Author: Elaine Ford

Last summer, thanks to your generosity, the Cirencester Hospital League of Friends raised an incredible £8,449.38 to enhance patient care.

These funds have now been put to great use, providing essential equipment, comfortable staff facilities, and, most notably, RITA, an advanced digital therapy system designed to support patients with dementia and other conditions.

RITA allows patients to engage with music, films, and games, creating a more familiar and comforting hospital environment.

Alongside other wish list items like lifting cushions and headsets, these additions have made a real difference to both patients and staff.

The League of Friends is now planning a Summer Fun Day this July to bring the community together once again. While it won’t be on the same scale as last year’s fundraiser, they would love your support and look forward to seeing us all.

Thank you for helping to make a lasting impact! Stay tuned for more details.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

So, you’ve got a property to rent, you’ve invested your savings, or you have perhaps inherited a house, and now you want to rent it out.

Are there steps you could be taking to ensure that the tenancy is as easy as possible, leaving you to get on with your life?

Read our tips below which will help you attract and choose the right tenants for you – those who will look after it, pay the rent, and cause you little to worry about.

Who are the Best Tenants?

If you want to attract the best tenants, you have to first define what you mean by ‘best tenants’.

  • Do you want to ensure they look after the property to a high standard?
  • Is the rent being paid on time a top priority?
  • Do you want them to be able to get on with any little DIY tasks?
  • Is the best tenant for you a young professional? A family? Retirees?
  • Will a young professional be able to pay the rent easily?
  • Will a more mature tenant look after your house better?

On the other hand, all this speculation may be absolute nonsense!

So, you must define who your best tenant might be, and follow our six tips to attract the best for your property.

Choose a Suitable Letting Agent – You must make sure you choose the right lettings agent. Whether you want your agent to find you a tenant, or if you task them with managing the property as well, it’s super important that your agent knows what sort of tenant you are looking for.

Do your homework. Talk to several lettings agents including us to find the right one for you. Ask around, consider recommendations and read reviews. We are proud of our reviews from landlords and tenants click here and take a look.

Let your Agent Handle Viewings – Unless you are experienced, use your lettings agent to handle viewings.

With our extensive industry experience, we have developed a keen intuition for assessing prospective tenants as they walk through the door. Combined with your brief, this ensures we are fully prepared to thoroughly evaluate each candidate.

Trust your agent to conduct thorough screenings. At Perry Bishop, we ensure that every prospective tenant aligns with your requirements and that all viewing requests are carefully vetted to match your brief.

Be a Property Matchmaker – If you’re looking for someone to live in your property who is as tidy and clean as you are, it makes sense to make sure your property is photographed in its neat and tidy state—even minimalist.

You’re more likely to get the perfect tenant who will want to live that way, and they’ll know the standards you set right from the start. Make sure your rooms are dressed or staged appropriately when the photos are taken.

Develop a Shortlist – Weeding out prospective tenants you don’t want is made easier if you and your lettings agent ask a list of questions you’ve already prepared.

Whether it is you asking or your agent, the answers will help you choose. Take time to think about the responses you need to hear and shape your questions accordingly.

What’s ‘Best’ Anyway? – If you have struggled for a while to find the right tenants, are you being too picky?

After all, background checks and references must be conducted to ensure your tenant will be able to afford the rent. They will also sign a contract!

You have rights as a landlord should things go awry. Talk to us about being a landlord and what it entails. We’ll help you define what makes a good tenant.

Don’t Skip the Background Checks – Viewings have been completed; you’ve got some potentials in mind as the right tenants.

Bingo. But wait. Now is the time to get those all important checks done. It’s so important to get this part right, even if you’re letting to a friend.

This is where a lettings agent can really assist you. A good lettings agent will carry out all the necessary checks for you and put forward the people they consider right for your property.

If you want some advice on letting your property, please get in touch. We’ll happily help you market your property, find a tenant, and complete all the necessary checks.

We can manage your property going forward too. We want you to get it right, and that’s why we always do it right.

We care about property, we care about you.

Give us a call – contact us today and speak to one of our experienced team who can help you with your next steps to finding your perfect tenant.

Author: Elaine Ford

If you haven’t rented out your home before, then it can be difficult to know where to start. From ensuring the property adheres to the electrical safety regulations set for landlords to finding the right tenant to getting a handle on the tax implications, the vast number of tasks you need to complete can be overwhelming.

However, there is a way to make the process simpler and less stressful.

5 Steps to Renting Out Your House

All you need to do is follow the steps below to rent out your home, and you will be receiving your first month’s rent in no time!

Research the market – Renting out your home is different to buying a property specifically to let, as you have most likely spent a significant amount of time and money making your property as homely and attractive as possible.

Therefore, it is not uncommon for homeowners to set the rent too high when marketing their property with a buy-to-let mortgage.

That is why it is important that you find out how much similar properties in the area are being let out for per month and ask for advice from a letting agent. It is also a good idea to work out what type of tenant will be likely to want to rent your property – students, families or single professionals.

Be aware of the financial commitment – Many first-time landlords go into the process believing that it is the easiest way to make money fast.

However, they do not take into consideration the ongoing financial costs associated with renting out your home.

As well as paying tax on your rental income, letting agent fees and any legal fees, you will also be responsible for ongoing maintenance and repairs to the property, not to mention rent insurance, buildings insurance, and any fees for the local council.

These may include:
  • Exterior repairs
  • Installation maintenance
  • General decorating
  • Repairing or replacing of white goods
  • Boiler servicing
  • Emergency repairs
  • General wear and tear
It is advisable to have a list of reputable and trustworthy tradesmen that you can call for any maintenance jobs that you are unable to carry out yourself or for cases of emergency that you are unable to attend to.

Provide a blank canvas – Firstly, you need to decide if you are going to rent your home out furnished or unfurnished.

This will be dependent on whether or not you have a need for your furniture in your new home, as well as what your specific demographic of renters will prefer.

If you are planning to rent your property as unfurnished, then you will potentially need to look into storage options for any furniture you do not require in your new home.

Once you have decided which pieces of furniture you are going to leave in your property, you should then create an accurate property inventory so that you can avoid any potential disputes over damages.

As a general rule, it is advisable to keep the colour scheme in your rental property as neutral as possible to appeal to the widest variety of potential tenants. You should also clear your home of any clutter and personal belongings that may make the property feel less spacious.

Prepare for becoming a landlord – As the saying goes “with great power comes great responsibility”, and never a truer statement has been said concerning becoming a landlord for the first time!

Not only should you be prepared for the influx of calls that you may receive from your tenants, but you also need to make sure you are informed about all your legal requirements as a landlord.

These include:

  • Checking your mortgage allows you to rent out your home
  • Ensuring your property is fit for occupancy
  • Arranging an electrical installation condition report
  • Arranging a yearly gas safety check
  • Ensuring your property has an Energy Performance Certificate
  • Installing smoke alarms and CO alarms
  • Carrying out right-to-rent checks on prospective tenants
  • Protecting tenants’ deposits with a TDP
  • Paying income tax if required
  • Getting residential landlord insurance
  • Getting rent indemnity insurance
  • Staying up to date with all legal legislations affecting landlords and tenants
Consider hiring a letting agent – Of course, you are under no obligation to hire a letting agent to help you rent out your home, but there are many benefits in working with a property management and letting agent.

These include:

  • Marketing your property for you
  • Showing prospective tenants around your home
  • Drawing up a tenancy agreement for you
  • Dealing with your tenants directly if you do not want to
  • Dealing with paperwork and deposits
  • Hiring a letting agent is a good idea if you are either inexperienced in renting out properties or if you simply do not have the time or inclination to learn all of the processes involved.
  • An agent will also be able to offer you invaluable advice and experience, meaning you are less likely to incur costly mistakes along the way.
For no-obligation advice on renting out your home please contact our expert lettings team.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rental Properties and Legal Responsibilities
Is it necessary to check if my residential mortgage allows me to rent out my property?

Yes, it’s crucial to verify whether your residential mortgage permits renting out your property. Violating mortgage terms can have serious consequences, so consult with your lender to ensure compliance.

How can short-term rental apps impact my property management strategy?

Short-term rental apps can offer flexibility but may also pose challenges. Ensure your property adheres to local regulations, and consider the implications on your rental approach, especially if dealing with multiple occupation scenarios.

Are there specific considerations for landlords managing multiple occupation properties?
Yes, landlords handling multiple occupation properties must be aware of additional regulations and safety requirements. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and ensuring the property meets the standards for shared living spaces.

Should I explore residential mortgages for short-term rental properties?
When considering short-term rentals, exploring residential mortgages tailored for such purposes is advisable. These mortgages may offer terms that align better with the dynamics of short-term rental income.

Contact us today to start your journey. We’re here to help every step of the way.

We care about property, we care about you.

Author: Elaine Ford

Are you thinking about moving, whether in the near future or just exploring your options? Finding the perfect home can be competitive, but what if you could get ahead of the crowd? At Perry Bishop, we believe in offering more than just listings—we provide an exclusive service designed to give our buyers the ultimate advantage.

What is the VIP Buyers Club?

Our VIP Buyers Club gives you access to properties before they appear on major portals like Rightmove and Zoopla. Many of these homes are marketed on a ‘low-key’ basis, meaning they won’t be listed publicly on our website or other platforms. By joining, you gain early insight into potential dream homes before they hit the open market.

Why Join the VIP Buyers Club?

🔑 Exclusive Early Access – Be among the first to view properties, giving you a head start on securing your ideal home.

🏡 Off-Market Opportunities – Gain access to a ‘hidden market’ of sellers who may be open to moving if the right buyer comes along.

📍 Local Expertise & Connections – With our deep local knowledge and vast network, we can introduce you to homes before they are widely advertised.

🤝 Tailored Support – Whether you’re ready to move now or planning for the future, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Who Can Join?

The VIP Buyers Club is perfect for anyone thinking about moving—whether you’re actively searching or just beginning to explore the market. No matter your timeframe, our team will provide the support and guidance you need to make confident decisions.

Why Choose Perry Bishop?

At Perry Bishop, we do more than help you find a house—we help you find a home. Our commitment to personalised service ensures that every step of your journey is smooth, stress-free, and tailored to your needs. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, we’re here to help.

How to Join

Be one of the first to know about exclusive homes and get ahead in your property search. Join our VIP Buyers Club today and let us help you find the perfect place to call home.

📩 Get in touch today to register your interest!

Perry Bishop – We care about property. We care about you.