Author: Elaine Ford
The Steadings is nearing completion, with only a few properties remaining. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary community. Discover HarperCrewe, Discover Your New Home.
Prices From £499,995
Join us for an exclusive Open Weekend and explore the FINAL properties available in this stunning community and enjoy some amazing offers.

This is the perfect opportunity to:
- Tour the final available homes and experience their exceptional quality firsthand.
- Meet our friendly team, who can answer all your questions and guide you through the process.
- Learn about exclusive offers available during the open weekend.
Discover the HarperCrewe difference this February and take the first step toward your future at The Steadings.
We look forward to welcoming you home!
Author: Elaine Ford
When it comes to selling your home, speed and efficiency matter. At Perry Bishop, we consistently outpace the local market, securing sales faster than the average in the area. But we don’t stop there—we also help our clients move 20% quicker than the national average, making the journey from listing to completion as seamless as possible.
Author: Elaine Ford
Come and visit our stunning village facilities, including the Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen showhome, and meet our team to discover life at Siddington Park. Enjoy a glimpse of The Orangery restaurant and our exclusive Revive wellbeing spa.

Author: Elaine Ford
Are you considering a move, even if your plans are still on the horizon? At Perry Bishop, we believe in offering our clients more than just access to properties—we provide an exclusive service that puts you ahead of the competition.
Author: Elaine Ford
Understanding why homeowners choose to sell their properties can shed light on broader trends in the housing market. The Home Moving Trends Survey 2024 reveals fascinating insights into the motivations behind property sales, helping both buyers and sellers navigate the market more effectively.
- Investment Opportunities (11%): A sizeable portion of homeowners are selling to capitalize on their property’s value or reinvest elsewhere.
- Personal Milestones (8%): Moving in with a partner represents a step forward for some, combining life and living arrangements.
- Proximity to Family (5%): Sellers also prioritize being closer to loved ones, reflecting the importance of family connections.
- Other Factors (5%): A variety of personal or unforeseen reasons complete the picture of why people decide to move.
Author: Elaine Ford
Whether your home is a quaint countryside cottage or an urban apartment, creating an illusion of spaciousness within your main rooms is an invaluable skill. We are here to help you with the question we are often asked “How do you make a room look bigger”.
Through our collection of strategies, each chosen to help you maximise the feeling of space and light in your home, you can transform your rooms.
12 Ways to Make Small Spaces Look Bigger
The Illusion of Light – Let’s start by unveiling the magic of natural light, arguably one of the most powerful elements in interior design. Natural light possesses an unparalleled ability to create an airy and open atmosphere and make a small room look much bigger.
To harness its potential, consider using sheer curtains or blinds to infuse your rooms with warmth. Artificial lighting can also shine a light on dead space, and make a room feel lighter.
The Power of Colour – In interior design, colour holds transformative capabilities. The right colour becomes a crucial tool when improving a small space. You should opt for lighter shades that bring an aura of airiness.
When asked how to make a room look bigger, we suggest soft pastels, pale neutrals, and cool tones like serene blues and tranquil greens.
Clever Furniture Selection – The art of furniture selection is always a balance between functionality and aesthetics. In your quest to create the impression of space, always look for furniture that serves a dual purpose.
Think storage ottomans, sleek sofa beds or nesting coffee tables that offer style and practicality. Additionally, furniture with exposed legs establishes a sense of visual openness, allowing light to infiltrate beneath and around, adding extra floor space.
Streamlined Storage Solutions – A decluttered space promotes mental clarity and contributes to the illusion of space, so streamlined storage solutions are your friend here.
Consider built-in shelves, floating units, and wall-mounted cabinets because these pieces optimise storage and maintain an uncluttered floor, heightening the perception of spaciousness.
Mirrored Magic – Among the most transformative tools in an interior designer’s toolkit are mirrors. So, how to make a room look bigger with mirrors?
Well, mirrors hold a unique ability to transform space as their reflective nature not only amplifies light but also creates an illusion of depth.
Consider placing a substantial mirror in a strategic location, as this single addition can instantly double the perceived dimensions of a small bedroom or living room.
Vertical Elegance – A journey into space enhancement wouldn’t be complete without exploring vertical elements. By drawing the eyes upward, you invite a sensation of heightened ceilings and, consequently, expanded room proportions.
Embrace vertical stripes on walls for an elongating effect. Incorporate tall bookcases or floor-to-ceiling curtains that guide the gaze upward, effectively creating a captivating sense of elevation.
Decluttering Zen – The ideology of minimalism isn’t just a design trend; it’s a philosophy that celebrates the synergy between simplicity and spaciousness.
As you work out how to make a room look bigger than its physical dimensions, you should champion the art of minimalism. Decorate surfaces with intention, displaying only a few meticulously selected items, and mazimise storage space such as under a coffee table to create space and make your room feel bigger.
Multi-Functional Zones – One of the hallmarks of successful interior design is creating distinct functional zones within a room. This principle works seamlessly to generate a sense of space. Use rugs, creative furniture placement, or diverse lighting to create different zones. Each zone contributes to the overall design while enjoying a seamless transition between various activities.
Transparency with Glass – The transparency of glass introduces an element of magic into your design repertoire. Consider incorporating glass furniture such as transparent chairs or coffee tables.
Furthermore, glass panels can function as elegant room dividers, effectively segmenting spaces without obstructing the visual flow.
The Wonder of Open Shelving – The allure of open shelving carries the potential to redefine the perception of space. Consider the use of open shelving, particularly in kitchens and living areas.
Thoughtfully arrange items on the shelves, optimising storage efficiency and contributing to an uncluttered, expansive atmosphere.
Seamless Flooring Transition – The choice of flooring material and its flow from room to room play a pivotal role in establishing a sense of spaciousness.
The continuous flow of flooring creates an uninterrupted visual journey, effortlessly guiding the eye from one area to another. If possible, try to choose the same flooring material for all your main rooms as this will help forge a harmonious and spacious atmosphere.
Smart Furniture Arrangement – Strategic furniture arrangement serves as the cornerstone of interior design. When aiming to increase the perceived dimensions of a room, use furniture arrangement as a defining tool.
Consider pulling furniture slightly away from walls – a technique that introduces a sense of depth. By introducing cosy conversational clusters, you will create an intimate atmosphere while at the same time, preserving a feeling of spaciousness.
Great Interior Design is a Balance of Creativity and Functionality – In the world of interior design, the notion of space extends beyond physical dimensions. With each brushstroke of design finesse, you are adding square footage to your main rooms and creating an atmosphere of peace, tranquillity and beauty.
For expert advice on all things property in the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse, contact the Perry Bishop team today.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s make your property journey a success!
We care about property, we care about you.
Author: Elaine Ford
Downsizing to a smaller property was previously only considered by those entering retirement once their children had flown the nest. However, with the rising cost of mortgages and more of us wanting to live a more flexible lifestyle, many are now considering downsizing much younger.
What is Downsizing? Downsizing is the process of moving to a smaller home than the one that you currently live in. People choose to downsize for various reasons, some financial and others to benefit their lifestyle.
There is no right answer as to whether downsizing is the right option or at what point in your life it is best.
However, before making such an enormous decision, all of the possibilities must be considered.
What are the Advantages of Downsizing?
It Enables You to Live in a Better Area – Moving to a smaller property may mean you can afford to live in an area you have always lusted after. While it might not be the four-bedroom detached property you imagined initially, there are many lifestyle benefits to living in a more affluent neighbourhood.
It Gives You Financial Freedom – If you have lived in your current home for a while, the price has likely appreciated.
Smaller houses are generally less expensive, so downsizing may enable you to pay off your mortgage much faster, pay lower monthly instalments, or even allow you to enjoy a mortgage-free life.
Additionally, a smaller property generally attracts less financial upkeep. This might mean your energy bills are less, alongside your council tax. Whilst these individual monthly savings may seem insignificant at first, they will quickly add up annually.
You’ll be Forced to Declutter! – Moving to a smaller home makes you have a thorough declutter.
Although we all have many precious items that we will treasure forever, most of us also hang onto boxes of things that have not seen the light of day in years. When you physically do not have the space, you are forced to examine the belongings you are choosing to hang onto.
This might even enable you to make some money selling unwanted items in the process. Getting rid of such a large number of items can cause a shift in your mindset, moving away from a life focusing on accumulating things to one concentrating on collecting memories.
Are There any Disadvantages to Downsizing?
It’s a Big Adjustment – One of the most significant issues when moving to a smaller property is that you have spent years living in a much larger house. In all likelihood, when you moved to your current home, you probably never imagined that you would fill all of the rooms. With the place now bursting at the seams, it can be challenging to imagine yourself in a space significantly smaller.
There will be an Impact on Your Lifestyle – The lack of space might be more profound than merely having to cull some of your belongings.
It could mean that you lose a guest room or two, making it difficult for friends or family to stay over at your home. At this point, it is essential to consider how this might impact your life daily. Many of us have guest rooms with the best intentions, which end up being used for storage rather than actually housing any visitors.
You’ll Have Emotional Attachments – Emotional attachment to your home can be a huge stumbling block. You will likely have grown to love your current property, the beautiful parts, and the imperfections. You probably have close bonds with your neighbours, which may be lost through the process of relocating.
There’s the Cost of Moving Home – Although your new, smaller home will probably cost considerably less. You must consider the cost of moving.
Moving home in the UK can be an expensive and time-consuming process. You will need to think about the financial and emotional expense of moving before committing to anything.
Think about what is important to you and what is going to make your life more fulfilled. Although moving to a smaller house can seem like a great idea initially, it is not always the wisest move in the long run.
Consider a short term rental property of a similar size to the one you are thinking of moving to. Airbnb is an excellent option for this. Allowing you to get a feel for the property’s size over a few nights, evaluating whether it is right for your current circumstances.
For expert advice, contact the Perry Bishop team today. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s make your property journey a success!
Author: Elaine Ford
Time has a habit of racing by doesn’t it! If you’re moving in a few months’ time, that date will almost always come around much quicker than you think!
- Boxes of all different sizes. It’s better to overestimate how many you need rather than underestimate!
- Packaging tape – lots of it!
- Scissors or a Stanley knife with replacement blades
- Dustsheets for covering furniture
- Gloves
- Marker pens
- Bubble wrap or newspaper
Author: Elaine Ford
Portal says both buyers enquiries, traffic and number of new property listings exceeded last year’s already record Boxing Day.
Article taken from “The Negotiator”
Author: Elaine Ford
When you have chosen to put your property on the market, ensuring that it’s in show-ready condition can make a significant difference. But, what exactly does “show-ready” mean, why does it matter that you properly prepare your house for viewings.
The Show-Ready Concept – Show-ready is when your home is fully prepared for potential buyers to view it. Clean, organised, and free of clutter, it showcases your property in its best possible light.
This helps to create a positive first impression and ensures that your house feels homely, thus encouraging viewers to visualise themselves living there.
Preparing Your House for Viewings: The Statistics – The question of how to prepare your house for viewings is an important one!
According to a study by Rightmove, it takes just 27 seconds for a potential buyer to form an impression of your property. However, 26% of home hunters spend more than two hours viewing a property before making an offer.
These statistics highlight the importance of ensuring your property is in the best condition possible when prospective buyers come to view.
Homes kept in show-ready condition often sell faster and for a better price. A study by HomeOwners Alliance shows homes took an average of 19 days to sell when well-presented and priced correctly, compared to the national average of 60 days.
In the age of the internet, where properties are often first viewed online, photos of a well-kept, show-ready home can encourage potential buyers to book a viewing.
According to a study by Zoopla, almost all buyers look at a property’s photos before deciding whether to view. Therefore, if you prepare your house for viewings by ensuring your home looks flawless in the images, you are likely to attract more potential viewers.
Reassure Potential Buyers – A home in show-ready condition reassures potential buyers about the maintenance and care of your home. An untidy or run-down property can raise concerns about potential unseen issues. When you prepare your house for viewings, these worries won’t surface, thus helping to speed up the decision-making process.
Tips for Preparing Your House for Viewings – To make sure your home is in show-ready condition and creates a lasting impression on potential buyers, follow these tips:
Declutter: Clear away any clutter, personal items, and unnecessary objects that can make your home look messy or overcrowded. This will help to showcase the available space in the property.
Deep Clean: Give your home a thorough cleaning from top to bottom, including carpets, windows, and appliances. A clean and fresh-smelling house will be more appealing to potential buyers.
Fix Minor Issues: Take care of any small repairs, such as fixing leaky taps, broken locks, or cracked tiles. These seemingly insignificant fixes can make a huge difference in the overall impression of your property.
Neutralise Décor: Repaint rooms with bold colours in more neutral tones, such as beige or greys. This will allow a prospective buyer to visualise themselves living in the space and make it easier for them to imagine their own belongings.
Highlight Key Features: Identify your property’s best assets or features, like a beautiful fireplace or an impressive garden, and make sure they are highlighted and well-kept during viewings.
Arrange Furniture Thoughtfully: Arrange your furniture to showcase the functionality and space in each room. Consider removing or rearranging bulky or oversized furniture to create a more open and inviting space.
Improve Kerb Appeal: Enhance the exterior of your property by tidying up the garden, adding potted plants, and repainting the front door. First impressions count, and an attractive exterior will encourage potential buyers to look inside.
Use Lighting to Your Advantage: Ensure your home is well-lit, with natural light during the day and appropriate lighting during the evening. Bright and well-lit spaces look bigger and more inviting.
Remember, the effort you put into preparing your house for viewings will ensure that your property stands out, plus it could speed up the selling process!
Frequently Asked Questions About Setting Up Your Home for House Viewings
Should I open all the windows during a house viewing? Fresh air is great, but not always! While good ventilation is important, aim for a pleasant temperature.
Not everyone wants to feel cold during a viewing, as it may mean buyers imagine the property is always that temperature. Open windows during open house events, but consider closing them for individual viewings if the weather is cold.
Do I need to hide all traces of my pets during viewings? Yes, generally! Put away pet bowls, litter trays, and toys. A clean and neutral space allows potential buyers to imagine themselves living there.
How can I make my house look bigger for viewings? Declutter and use hidden storage space! Remove bulky furniture and create an open feel.
This will help prospective buyers visualise their own belongings in the space. It is also worth turning on all the lights to make the space look more roomy.
Is it worth adding decorative touches to my house before a viewing? Absolutely! Fresh flowers or a neutral-coloured throw can add a welcoming touch. Small details can make all the difference in creating a positive first impression.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Moving Journey?
Start your move with confidence! Book a free property valuation with Perry Bishop today and discover how much your home is worth.
Whether you’re planning to sell or just exploring your options, our expert team will provide you with a clear understanding of your property’s potential value.