Author: Elaine Ford

We have found that currently older people are questioning whether downsizing is the right choice for them. If your children have flown the nest, and with the cost of living increasing, you may be beginning to think about whether your existing home is suitable in the long term.

Perhaps the ongoing demands of cleaning, maintaining, running and repairing a family-sized property are already proving to be onerous and, over time, those requirements will only become more challenging.

With this in mind, it could be time to consider moving to a smaller home. The team here at Perry Bishop appreciate that this can be a difficult decision and so have a few considerations that you should bear in mind before making your final choice.

What Do You Find Most Important? Your home may have once been perfect for your family, but it’s important to consider what matters most to you today.

If you value spending your money and time on the things you enjoy doing most instead of spending them on your home, it could be the perfect time to downsize.

Take some time to think carefully about your current circumstances and how much space you really need now. Take the time, too, to plan ahead for the future. Consider your future well-being and health.

Will you be able to manage stairs, a large garden, or difficult to maintain fittings and fixtures when you’re older?

Is your home’s location still going to be suitable for you in a few years’ time, or would it be best for you to live closer to family members, public transport, or healthcare facilities?

You need to not only prioritise what is important to you today but also what will matter most in the future.

Consider Your Finances – It can be expensive to run any home. However, if you’re paying a large amount to warm rooms that you don’t use, or pay a standard water bill which would be most suited to a larger family, you could save money by downsizing.

You may also have a big mortgage and high insurance premiums for a larger home that you could save money on if you moved to a smaller property. You could even end up paying your mortgage off entirely, potentially leaving spare money that you can spend on things that you enjoy.

How Could You Use Some Spare Money? For many people considering downsizing, there will be some spare money available once you’ve relocated.

Depending on the amount of money involved, you may decide to go on holiday, give some money to loved ones, help your children buy a home of their own, or buy some well-earned treats for yourself.

You may have enough to invest – perhaps in a buy-to-let property to generate an additional income to supplement your pension or existing salary.

What Happens Next? – Deciding to downsize is never going to be easy, but in many cases, it is the best thing in the long run.

Discuss your thoughts with your family and friends, and take some time to think hard about what’s the best option for you.

You should also find out how much your existing home is worth.

Still thinking about downsizing – Whether you’re ready to make the move or just exploring your options, our team is here to help.

Contact us or pop in for a chat and we will be happy to give you expert advice, explore properties, and find out how downsizing can simplify your life.

Alternatively, click here to book a time and date to suit you for us to come and value your home. Let us guide you through the process to ensure a smooth transition to your next home!

We care about property, we care about you.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

Selling your home is an important milestone, and we understand the significance of making a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Our exclusive drone photography and video service is designed to showcase your property like never before.

By harnessing the power of aerial imagery, we will create a visual masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression and maximise your homes selling potential.

With state-of-the-art drone photography, we 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.

Our package also includes professionally produced videos, bringing your home to life and giving potential buyers a virtual tour of your property, showcasing its finest features.

By utilising our drone service, you’ll gain a powerful advantage in the property market with visually stunning imagery and engaging videos. Your listing will command attention, attract more buyers and ultimately achieve a faster and more successful sale.

Its time to elevate your home’s appeal and unlock its true potential.

Click here to book your valuation today.

We care about property, we care about you.

Author: Elaine Ford

The Renters’ Rights Bill was published and introduced to the UK Parliament on Wednesday after years of ‘will they, won’t they’ talks.

There is no debate at this stage, and the date of Second Reading will be published after Conference recess which takes place from 12 Sept 2024 to 7 Oct 2024. At Second Reading (expected on the 9 Oct 2024) MPs will have their first chance to debate the Bill where there may be small changes but more clarity.

The Bill contains many measures that were included in the Renters (Reform) Bill, however the Renters’ Rights Bill changes the initial number of clauses from 60 to 140.

Today Sian, Lettings Director and Gavin, Residential Director attended the Propertymark Regional Conference in Bristol. The Renters Rights Bill was obviously a high discussion point with many of our peers and speakers.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE KEY MEASURES

  • End fixed-term tenancies & move to rolling periodic tenancies. There is more clarity needed on this which we are sure will be done over the coming months. We need to understand if there is a minimum term for tenants.
  • Tenants will be able to stay in their home until they decide to end the tenancy by giving 2 months’ notice or the landlord can evidence a valid ground for possession. Landlords will need to give 4 months’ notice to move in or sell the property, but there is a 12-month protected period for tenants at the beginning of a tenancy.
  • There will be a single date after Royal Assent & Commencement for the removal of Section 21 evictions, which is not dependent on court reform happening first. This means that regardless of existing fixed term tenancies or new ones, they will all be the same on that day.
  • A new ground for possession which will allow landlords renting to students in HMOs to seek possession ahead of each new academic year.
  • Rent Repayment Orders will be expanded so they are wider in scope & for repeat offenders, & fines will be increased in line with inflation.
  • A ban on rental bidding wars with letting agents & landlords to be legally required to publish rent for their property & then unable to ask or accept any amounts above this price.
  • Ban on in-tenancy rent increases written in to contracts, with landlords only allowed to raise the rent once a year, and to the market rate. If the tenants disagree they can raise this in a rent tribunal.
  • Landlords can still give notice but rather than a Section 21 previously used they must issue a Section 8 giving clear grounds. These include Antisocial behaviour, rent arrears, damaging the property and more. There are varying notice periods depending on the ground stated.
  • Pets cannot be ‘reasonably refused’. Again we await what this means. It will also be necessary for tenants to provide details of pet insurance.

We understand this will be implemented Summer 2025.

We will, as always, be communicating as this develops further.

You can read more here

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/renters-reform-bill

If you have any questions, please call and speak to a member of our team.

Author: Elaine Ford

Out with the old and in with the new? Or, out with the old and in with the old? Moving house can be wonderful but how do you choose where you will be living next?

Do you go for the period property with the character and quirks in need of a little love and attention, or do you opt for the new house with the ensuite, the study space and the double garage?

Choosing your next home is a big decision. It’s a huge investment and so it must be right.

At Perry Bishop we’ve seen our fair share of old and new, so let’s look at what you should be considering when choosing.

What do you really want?

We speak with people all the time who know exactly what it is they want!

However, equally, many don’t. So, what do you want from a new-to-you property?

  • Do you want a ready-to-live-in house?
  • Would you rather have a property where you know you will need to do some work?

Write the pros and cons of new and old and have a good ponder on the type of house you want.

Do you have the skills?

You may have decided that you want a doer-upper. You know the type. External walls need rendering, a rewire is required, new bathroom suite, the kitchen needs replacing…

But do you have the skills to do the work? If you do, then great.

Do you have the time? If you do, then greater still.

If you don’t, then this should steer you away from a house that needs work unless you have the budget to pay for professionals. If you’re going to bodge it, will it really become the home of your dreams? Unlikely!

So, think carefully before taking on too much.

Is money no object, or are your finances tight?

Budgets play a huge part in any project, whether it’s a house you are renovating, or a new property that needs carpeting or decorating to your taste.

If you want to renovate, have you worked out all that you need to do, whether that’s materials or labour costs? And what about a contingency fund? What you don’t want to do is have a list of things to do and then forget important aspects which mean the budget is smashed through the roof.

You can of course renovate on a budget, but if you have not fully costed everything, you may be in for a shock.

New can mean brand new!

A new home is so easy to move into. You can practically unpack, add furniture and be having a cuppa within an hour or two!

If it is brand new, then there should be warranties on white goods or on the building itself, giving you peace of mind so brand new can be an ideal option if your skills are limited, your budget tight, and, to be honest, you don’t want to renovate a property.

Is an older property better?

Many older houses are perceived to have been better built than newer ones. It’s true, they might have more substantial building materials used in the construction process, have intricate tiled patterns, more spacious rooms, larger gardens, or handmade bricks.

But… newer homes will have up-to-date environmental standards, materials sourced from environmentally conscious suppliers, have better insulation, and have electric and plumbing systems that are unlikely to require replacing.

There are always going to be pros and cons to any house you buy, whether it’s an old one or a new one.
What do you prefer, old or new?

In the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse we’re lucky that we have old and new properties coming to market, so we could have the ideal house for you.

Right now, we don’t know what your requirements are, so come and talk to us and we’ll be able to help you make the right choice.

Or click here and join our VIP buyers club today and receive priorty access to all our properties before they hit the market.

We care about property, we care about you.

Author: Elaine Ford

We are always eager to contribute to the well-being of our local community, and recently, we had the pleasure of supporting the Cirencester League of Friends. This dedicated charity, works tirelessly to enhance the quality of healthcare and provide support to patients and their families at Cirencester Hospital.

As part of our commitment to supporting local causes, we donated two branded goodie bags for the League of Friends’ Summer Fete.  The community event was a great success and raised a massive £8,449.38 for Cirencester League of Friends which will assist with the care of patients.

We look forward to continuing our support for local charities and finding new ways to give back to the community that has supported us so generously.

 

Author: Elaine Ford

The Sue Ryder Leckhampton annual Spring Fayre provided the perfect way to welcome the season. This much-anticipated event was a highlight of the community calendar, bringing together families, friends, and neighbours for a day filled with fun, laughter, and charitable giving, all in support of a great cause.

A day of fun for the whole family

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Leckhampton Court Hospice, the Spring Fayre offered something for everyone. From the moment visitors arrived, they were greeted by the sights, sounds, and smells of a traditional fayre, with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and local produce to delicious baked goods and unique gifts. It was the perfect opportunity to pick up a special treat or find a thoughtful gift.

Children were in their element, enjoying a variety of activities designed just for them. Face painting, games, and a bouncy castle kept the little ones entertained throughout the day. And, of course, the petting zoo was a highlight, allowing children and adults alike to meet some friendly animals.

Supporting Sue Ryder’s vital work

While the Spring Fayre was a day of celebration, it also served a deeper purpose. All proceeds from the event went directly to supporting Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, helping to fund the exceptional care and support provided to individuals living with life-limiting conditions. The hospice is a lifeline for many in the community, offering not only medical care but also emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families during incredibly challenging times.

Gavin and the team from Perry Bishop Leckhampton office was particularly proud to support the Spring Fayre, recognising it as a vital fundraiser that ensures the hospice can continue its crucial work. Whether buying a raffle ticket, bidding in the silent auction, or simply enjoying a cup of tea and a slice of cake, every penny spent at the Fayre made a difference.

 

Community involvement made it possible

The success of the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Spring Fayre wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of the local community. From the volunteers who helped set up and run the event, to the businesses that donated prizes and the attendees who came along on the day, it was truly a collective effort.

For those who got involved, whether by donating goods, time, or money, their contributions were invaluable. Not only did they support a wonderful cause, but they also had the chance to connect with others and be part of a cherished community tradition.

The Sue Ryder Leckhampton Spring Fayre was a day of fun, community spirit, and fundraising success. Whether it was the first time attending or a yearly tradition, everyone left with a smile on their face and a warm feeling in their heart, knowing they had helped support a vital service in the community.

We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!

Author: Elaine Ford

When it comes to selling or letting your property choosing the right agent can make all the difference. At Perry Bishop our success is built on more than just promises -it’s backed by hard data that showcase our proven track record in the property market. Here’s why:

Over 8,000 Buyers in Our Database

Our extensive buyer database is one of our greatest assets. With over 8,000 active and motivated buyers registered with us, your property is exposed to a wide pool of potential buyers the moment it hits the market. This increases the likelihood of receiving competitive offers quickly, reducing the time your property spends on the market.

More Properties Sold and Let Than Our Competitors

We consistently sell and let more properties than other agents in our area. This isn’t just a testament to our market presence; it reflects our ability to match properties with the right buyers and tenants. Our experience and knowledge of the local market mean we know how to price and position your property to attract the right attention.

Faster Sales Times

Time is critical in the property market, and Perry Bishop consistently delivers. Our properties not only sell significantly faster than the market average, but they also achieve 98% of the asking price—compared to the industry average of 96%. This means you can sell your property quickly and still secure a top market price. This is the result of our proactive marketing strategies, extensive buyer network, and skilled negotiation techniques that ensure your property is sold swiftly and profitably.

Our Move Ready initiative has also been a game-changer, with properties under this scheme exchanging contracts in just 56 days, significantly faster than traditional timelines.

High Sale Prices

At Perry Bishop, our goal is to help you achieve the highest possible sale price for your property. Our results speak for themselves – our clients consistently benefit from higher sale prices due to our strategic approach.

On every property we sell, we utilise our very own 11-step plan specifically designed to maximise every property’s potential value in the shortest amount of time. Download your copy here.

We understand the unique selling points of each property and how to highlight them to maximise your return on investment.

Customer Satisfaction
Our clients consistently rate us highly for satisfaction. We pride ourselves on delivering a personalised service that goes above and beyond. From the initial valuation to the final sale, our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring you feel supported and informed at all times.

Our commitment to exceptional service is reflected in the satisfaction of our clients, we take pride in the positive feedback we receive, with over 2,500 reviews across varous platforms. Our clients consistently commend us for our professionalism, attention to detail, and personalised approach. These reviews are not just testimonials; they are a testament to the high standards we maintain throughout the entire selling and letting process. Click here to read our reviews and see why so many homeowners trust us with their property transactions.

A Trusted Name in the Community

This reputation is reflected in the number of repeat clients and referrals we receive – a true testament to the quality of our service.

With decades of experience, Perry Bishop has become a trusted name in the community.  Our strong local connections, coupled with our deep understanding of the market have allowed us to build strong relationships with local residents and we are proud to support local charities and initiatives.

Ready to Experience the Perry Bishop Difference?

Our stats are more than just numbers—they’re a reflection of our commitment to excellence in everything we do.

If you’re considering selling or letting your property, there’s no better time to join the thousands of satisfied clients who have already benefited from our expertise.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you achieve your property goals with the confidence that comes from working with the best in the business.

Author: Elaine Ford

The first Bank of England rate cut in 4 years has led to a notable upturn in activity with a 19% year-on-year increase in buyer demand since the announcement on 1st August.

The number of new sellers coming to market this month is also up 5% year-on-year and the number of sales agreed now 16% ahead of this time last year too. Due to the positive market figures, Rightmove has raised its price prediction for 2024 from -1% to +1%.

So, if you’re considering selling, now really is a great time. Do get in touch with your nearest Perry Bishop office to book your free valuation or click here.

Read Rightmove’s House Price Index in full.  Click here

We care about property. We care about you.

Author: Elaine Ford

If you’re dreaming of settling into your new home before the Christmas holidays, now is the time to act. Bringing your property to market within the next six weeks is crucial if you want to make your dream a reality.

Why is timing so important?

The property market tends to slow down as the year comes to a close, with fewer buyers actively searching during the festive season. By listing your home now, you’ll take advantage of the current buyer demand and increase your chances of securing a sale before the holiday rush begins.

Additionally homes that hit the market in the autumn often attract serious buyers who are eager to complete their purchase before year end. These buyers are motivated to move quickly, which means you’re more likely to receive offers and close the deal faster.

But remember, the window of opportunity is closing.

If you want to be in your new home before Christmas, your property needs to be on the market within the next six weeks.

Don’t let the holiday season pass you by—act now to ensure your moving date doesn’t slip into the new year.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to arrange a valuation and discuss how we can help you make your move before Christmas.

Alternatively, you can “Instruct us Now” – the quickest way to market your property with your valuation, marketing strategy and admin carried out in one appointment. Click here to get started and take the first step towards selling your property.

We care about property, we care about you.

Author: Elaine Ford

You may have heard about probate and “probate property” but not really know much about what it actually means. You wouldn’t be the only person for whom probate is much of a mystery. Read further to gain valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate this complex process with ease.

You wouldn’t be the only person for whom probate is much of a mystery. After all, it’s not every day that you have to deal with probate matters.

  • What is probate
  • What probate property means
  • How to navigate your way through probate whether you are buying or selling.

What is Probate? When someone dies, the person who applies for the right to deal with the deceased’s possessions and property has to “apply for probate”. If the person who died left a Will, then the applicant can be given a “grant of probate”.

If someone has not left a Will, then a person gets “letters of administration”. If someone hasn’t left a Will but has part-owned a property it will pass to the part-owner. Note that the rules are slightly different in England when compared to Wales or Scotland. More information can be found on the Government websites.

Our Advice When someone dies, you will need to contact the owner of the asset (property). This is usually the organisation with whom the deceased has a mortgage. It is helpful in this case if paperwork is easily traceable along with details of finances and other things to do with a home.

What is a Probate Property?

A probate property is a property that is subject to the probate process. You will need to have the ‘grant of probate’ to be able to dispose of the property. You’ll have the authority to sell the property and sign all the required documents. Without it, the property will be in limbo.

Our Advice The probate process can be lengthy, and sometimes seem complex. While probate may not be something you have to deal with right now, it is worth understanding what you need to do in advance.

How to find out who owns a property

It’s quite simple to find out who owns a property. The Government website is the best place to refer to, although there are commercial sites that offer a similar service.

If you go to the Land Registry site, you need to create an account and then find the property you want information about. For a small fee, you can then download a copy of the Land Registry document that tells you who owns a specific property. If a bank or other organisation still has a charge over it (which means money is still owed on it), it will show up on the document.

Our Advice Know the exact address for the property you want the information for. While it may only be a small cost, if you’re downloading a number of documents, the cost will start to rack up.

Selling a Probate Property Putting the property on the market is not the end of the story. Remember, when you’re selling a probate property, it has to be valued as it was at the time the deceased passed away. This is because it has inheritance tax implications and HRMC need to know the correct figures.

You should wait until you have the legal authority to sell the property before marketing it. While it may be tempting to get ahead of things by putting the property on the market, the legal side of probate means you could end up losing potential buyers if you are premature.

Our Advice Use a conveyancer to deal with the legal side of things. You can also use the services of a solicitor who specialises in inheritance tax and conveyancing.

Buying a Probate Property A probate property could be an opportunity to get your hands on a relatively inexpensive home. Often, a property that has been inherited is not needed by the recipient and a quick sale releases preferred funds. In this case, the seller may be tempted to accept a lower offer to get the property off their hands.

Be aware that if the property is being sold by an executor who has never lived in the property themselves and doesn’t know it very well, there may be unknown issues so it’s wise to get a survey done. Similarly, make sure that whoever is selling the property has the authority to do so!

Our Advice  Do your homework. Ask questions of the executor or the estate agent and be thorough.

A probate property presents opportunities, but there are i’s to dot and t’s to cross. There’s paperwork to get right and it’s paramount that you seek advice from transparent experts who will tell you everything you need to know.

Communication is key, whether you are buying or selling a probate property. We can help you with the process. Contact us today to get expert guidance and support every step of the way.