Increasing the value of your home in the Cotswolds or the Vale of the White Horse is a smart way to go further with your investment. Even if housing prices naturally increase in the area as it develops, renovating and improving your home will boost its value even further. Between improving its aesthetics for yourself, and increasing the financial value for when you sell, here at Perry Bishop we want to share with you our top seven tips to get you there!

1. Keep your property in good repair

Regularly deep clean your property, stay on top of any mould and damp, and generally aim to fix any issues as they arise. This will keep your home in great condition and help you spread out the cost of maintenance. In return, you won’t have to heavily negotiate on the price of your home when the time comes to sell, or risk it being actually unsellable because a small issue became a big issue simply because it wasn’t handled at the time.

2. Install and nurture front and rear gardens

Front and rear gardens are a great way to improve the overall look of your property, and almost 1 in 5 buyers want these features. As a bonus, you’ll have a project that will keep you fit, out amongst the nature, have a beautiful home, and a lovely place to sit!

Tip: Many people today are looking to live more sustainably. Having beautiful gardens is a great way to start, as it offers a breath of fresh air even in the density of a city. To really appeal to these buyers, however, consider investing in a kitchen garden. Something that can be easily maintained, such as a wall of herbs, for example as this can really help sell your home.

3. Add character features to your property

Far too often, beautiful character features get removed, so consider adding them in! Change lighting fixtures and fittings to options you find characterful or quirky, replace flooring to incorporate hardwood, add mouldings, beams and even an open fire or log burner. These character features add to the beauty of your home and can become a true selling point later on. At the very least, these character features will help your property stand out against the others in your area and make it easier to sell your property quickly.

4. Improve your home energy efficiency

In terms of adding value to both the sale price and your wallet now, improving your property’s energy efficiency is key. This means replacing windows if they are not double glazed – or if they are very old, as double glazing loses its efficiency over time – it means insulating your home and changing the main doors so that they are better sealed. It could also mean investing in a new heating system. Central heating is a popular option, but there are many alternative means to heat a home that are even more efficient. If you get these changes done early, you can lower the cost of your utilities, and boost the value of your home.

5. Add a bedroom

Adding a bedroom will instantly put your property into the next price bracket. A two-bedroom home will never sell for as much as a three-bedroom home, and if you have a sizeable loft you have the perfect opportunity to convert it. For even better results, add an ensuite!

Tip: Adding a home office or a playroom can be just as lucrative as adding a bedroom and can be done at a much lower cost. Add a rear extension to your property and use that extra space to make room for a downstairs office or child-friendly zone. With the rise of remote working, both of these options will appeal to working professionals and parents.

6. Renovate the bathrooms

Modern bathrooms can look fantastic and help you feel like you have a spa in your own home! They can also increase the value of your property. Bathroom remodels are one of the top renovations that buyers and homeowners want done for their property, and new technology and materials are better than ever at keeping the room sealed and your home free of damp.

7. Renovate the kitchen

Kitchen styles come and go, and chances are the kitchen you inherited when you bought the house is not to your standards or tastes. Renovate with timelessness in mind and remember to ensure your kitchen’s value is in line with your property’s value. A successful kitchen renovation can boost the value of your home significantly, but make sure you stay within your budget so that you see the value back.

For expert advice on increasing the value of your home in the Cotswolds or the Vale of the White Horse,  contact your nearest Perry Bishop office.

The Coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on property trends, with rural areas seeing a huge surge in interest.

This is no doubt due to people spending more time working from home and looking for a property with some outdoor space to enjoy.

If you’re thinking about getting away from the city and escaping to the countryside, here are our 7 tips to help you find your perfect rural property.

1. Dip Your Toe in The Water Before Committing

While the relative tranquility and more laid-back lifestyle in the countryside can seem very appealing, if you’ve only lived in major cities then it can come as a huge shock to the system.

As a minimum you’re likely to have to travel further for most things, and it’s unlikely you’ll have 24-hour access to groceries for example.

Therefore, if you’re able to do so, consider renting for at least 6 months before you buy a property. That way you’ll get a much better feel for what you like and dislike about a rural location, and it will be much easier to move back to a town or city if you find the change of lifestyle to be too much.

2. Do Your Research

It pays to be prepared, so find out as much as you can about the area you’re looking to move to before you commit. As the local property experts for the Cotswolds area we can help you familiarise yourself with different areas of interest.

One thing that can catch people out is the boundaries and shared access that comes with living in a rural area. You may be seeking peace and privacy, only to find that there’s a public footpath crossing through your land, or a shared driveway that’s regularly used by farm vehicles.

Just make sure you do your homework on any potential property before you go all in.

3. Get to Know The Locals

Living in the country can be very isolating if you don’t know anyone, so it makes sense to have a few connections before you move if you can.

Just popping into the local shop or pub and chatting to some of the staff can go a long way to helping you settle in and you’ll be contributing towards the local community too.

Having some connections will also be invaluable if you ever need some help in future, such as finding a reliable trades person or getting a stray sheep out of the garden!

4. Contact your Local Estate Agent

This might seem simple, but it’s definitely a good idea to reach out and let us know what you’re looking for so that we can keep you up to date.

As your local agent, we have excellent knowledge of the local areas and can offer invaluable advice with regards to local facilities, schools and amenities.

There’s nothing wrong with finding a property through an online website and putting an offer in, but speaking directly to your local estate agent will help you to be better prepared for the reality of moving to a new area.

5. Embrace the Lifestyle

One of the main reasons why a lot of people’s rural move goes wrong is because they’re too set in their ways and they fail to adapt.

If you are going to move to the country then you’ll need to be prepared for potential issues that you don’t have in major towns and cities, such as fewer convenience shops and takeaways on your doorstep and reduced public transport services.

Embracing these lifestyle changes will go a long way towards settling and staying somewhere in the long-term.

6. Be Aware of Potential Extra Costs

Sometimes you find that rural properties aren’t connected to mains water and drainage. Instead, you may have a shared septic tank and a private water supply, which may be your sole responsibility, or shared with neighbours.

Other utilities such as broadband can be unreliable in extremely rural areas, so if it’s essential to have superfast internet then you may have to pay extra for this too.

As with everything, do your research and look into the potential additional costs you may have to face before putting in an offer.

7. Be Flexible

If you’re buying in a large town or city then you’ll often be spoilt for choice, so you can find exactly what you want if you look hard enough.

When it comes to rural areas though, because there are fewer properties to choose from you may find that some of your ‘must haves’ just aren’t going to be possible.

Therefore, you’ll need to either consider a wider area to find your perfect property or come to a compromise on the property itself to ensure you get to live in your perfect area.

We are your local property experts for the Cotswolds and the Vale of the White Horse. Call one of our branches to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.

Are you planning on giving your Cotswold home a makeover this year? Maybe it’s time to ditch that tired old rug and sofa you’ve been hanging on to for years. As we’ve been spending so much more time at home recently, the desire to freshen up our interiors is stronger than ever.

For inspiration, here are some of the top interior trends for this year that we absolutely love!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As a result of this increased time spent indoors, the desire to declutter and make more use of the space available has been a growing trend throughout 2021.

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

Natural Materials
Furniture that’s made from natural materials is also a big hit in 2021, with designers constantly coming up with new ways of combining natural materials.

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

Earthy Colours
One of the biggest trends that’s dropped in 2021 is the use of earthy colours such as mustards, greens, beiges, blues and browns.

With so many people having spent so much time indoors recently, colours that we associate with nature and the outdoors are going to be popular as people reconnect with the outside environment and try to bring it into their homes.

Shades of Pink
Love them or hate them, soft and neutral shades of pink are another top trend when it comes to colours in 2021.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Individuality
It’s not just vintage furniture that’s trending for 2021, any items that could be considered unique and individual are currently in fashion.

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

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

Managing Director, Phillip Bishop, looks to a genius to make some sense of a property market, the like of which we haven’t seen since the 1980s.

What Isaac Newton, who formulated the laws of gravity in the middle of the 17th century, would have made of the current gravity-defying property market is anyone’s guess. But no doubt, like most people, he would have been flummoxed.

Even a genius like Newton, who worked from home during the plague of 1665/6, might have had difficulty making any sense of this mad market. Despite a global killer pandemic, millions of people out of work, the nation in lockdown, pubs shut, travel halted and the Treasury handing out billions in support of businesses, jobs and mortgages, the property market boomed – and it continues to do so. It should, by any calculation, have plummeted like an apple from a tree. Instead, the market didn’t fall; it held itself in suspended animation for a while before surging upwards.

By any estimation the market should at least have mirrored the slowdown experienced after the great recession of 2008. Yet prices are rising.

But perhaps we can learn something from Newton, whose third law stated that to every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Homeowners and homebuyers reacted to Covid by moving from large urban centres and buying bigger properties in less crowded areas where they could work from home at least a few days a week. At the same time historically low interest rates kept mortgage repayments manageable, and the amazing vaccine programme has generated confidence.

It wasn’t long ago that property professionals were preparing for the worst. Now the market, which is experiencing very low levels of stock, is seeing increasing values with selling prices in some areas often exceeding their asking prices.

Growing numbers of sight-unseen sales, ultra-competitive bidding through all price ranges and the ugly re-emergence of gazumping are sure signs of people who are panic buying and a crazy property market in boom mode. So, let’s give Newton the last word in trying to make sense of what is going on. He said, “I can calculate the motion of heavenly bodies, but not the madness of people”.

If you’re looking to take advantage of what’s undoubtedly an exceptional market for sellers, do get in touch with your local Perry Bishop office.

The last 12 months have been difficult for everyone – for landlords and tenants alike. Job insecurity, redundancies and a tapered furlough scheme have resulted in the unfortunate but inevitable rise in tenants defaulting on their rent payments. With an average UK monthly rent of approx. £880 and the large number of landlords who rely on rental income to cover the mortgage payments on their properties, the importance for independent landlords to protect themselves cannot be overestimated.

Our Rent Protection and Legal Expenses Insurance offers brilliant protection for landlords who find themselves in this situation. Here’s what’s covered?

RENT PROTECTION
Protection if the tenant doesn’t pay their rent.

RENT RECOVERY
We’ll pursue tenants on your behalf to recover outstanding rent from them.

EVICTION OF TENANTS OR SQUATTERS
Tenants who can’t meet the requirements of their tenancy agreement or squatters who are living in your property without your consent will be evicted – and we’ll manage the legal proceedings.

PROPERTY DAMAGE
Legal cover to pursue tenants for damage to the property of over £1,000.

Up to £100,000 INDEMNITY insurance
The maximum amount payable in the event of a claim.

CONTRACT DISPUTES
Cost and expenses for a dispute with a party whom you have a direct contractual relationship with.

When you choose Perry Bishop’s Enhanced Management service, our Rent Protection and Legal Expenses Insurance is included in your package. However, landlords who choose our Classic Managed service can also enjoy the same peace of mind this service brings by adding it to their package. Prices start from as little as £15pcm (for up to £1000pcm rental).

To find out more talk to the lettings team in your local branch of Perry Bishop.

In recent years there have been hundreds of changes to UK laws that affect private landlords. Navigating these changes and avoiding massive fines or worse for non-compliance (including imprisonment as occurs in some cases and potentially having your property confiscated – a recent recommendation from MPs) is a very real nightmare for landlords.

Industry experts have determined that there are over 180 individual and/or incremental pieces of legislation that may apply directly or indirectly to private landlords.

These include, though likely will not be limited to (as new and modified regulations are being introduced at a truly alarming rate) the following:

1. Assured Tenancies and Agricultural Occupancies (Forms) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2003
2. Assured Tenancies and Agricultural Occupancies (Forms) (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2003
3. Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001
4. Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003
5. Anti-Social Behaviour etc (Scotland) Act 2004
6. Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
7. Building Regulations Part P: Guidance Booklet
8. Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982
9. Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation) Order 2000
10. Community Care and Health (Scotland) Act 2002
11. Consumer Protection Act 1987
12. The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008
13. Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 (SI no.2739)
14. Control of Pollution Act 1974
15. Council Tax (Additional Provisions for Discount Disregards) Order 1992
16. Council Tax (Chargeable Dwellings) Order 1992
17. Council Tax (Discount Disregards) Order 1992
18. Council Tax (Exempt Dwellings) Order 1992
19. Council Tax (Liability for Owners) (Amendment) Regulations 1993
20. Council Tax (Liability for Owners) Regulations 1992
21. Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
22. Crime and Security Act 2010
23. Criminal Law Act 1977
24. Data Protection Act 1998
25. Data Protection Act 2018
26. General Data Protection Regulation
27. Defective Premises Act 1972
28. Deregulation Act 2015
29. Deregulation Act 2015 (Commencement No. 1 and Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2015
30. Disability Discrimination Act 2005
31. Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 (SI no.3260)
32. Employment Rights Act 1986
33. Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) Regulations 2007
34. Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) (Amendment No.2) Regulations 2008
35. Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2010
36. Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2011
37. Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2012
38. Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2014
39. Energy Act 2011
40. Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013
41. Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2010
42. Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2014
43. Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2014
44. Equality Act 2010
45. Equality Act 2006
46. Estate Agents Act 1979
47. Finance Act 2003 (Part 4)
48. Firearms Act 1968
49. Firearms (Amendment) Act 1988
50. Firearms (Amendment) Act 1997
51. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) Fees Order 2013
52. Fixed Term Employees (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2002
53. Freedom of Information Act 2000
54. Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 2010
55. Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1993
56. Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1989
57. Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (SI no.1324)
58. Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 (SI No. 2451)
59. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
60. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
61. Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996
62. Health and Safety (Training for Employment) Regulations 1990
63. Heat Network (Metering and Billing) (Amendment) Regulations 2015
64. Heat Network (Metering and Billing) Regulations 2014
65. Home Information Pack (Suspension) Order 2010
66. Houses in Multiple Occupation (Management) (England) Regulations 2009
67. Houses in Multiple Occupation (Management) (Wales) Regulations 2009
68. Housing (Interim Management Orders) (Prescribed Circumstances) Order 2006
69. Housing (Scotland) Act 2014
70. Housing (Scotland) Act 2010
71. Housing (Scotland) Act 2006
72. Housing (Scotland) Act 1988
73. Housing Act 1985 Part 10
74. Housing Act 1988
75. Housing Act 1996
76. Housing Act 2004
77. Housing Act 2004 (Commencement No 5 and Transitional Provisions and Savings) (England) Order 2006
78. Housing Act 2004 (Commencement No 5 and Transitional Provisions and Savings) (Wales) Order 2006
79. Housing Act 2004 (Commencement No. 3 and Transitional Provisions and Savings) (Wales) Order 2006
80. Housing Benefit (Local Housing Allowance and Information Sharing) Amendment Regulations 2007
81. Housing Benefit (Local Housing Allowance, Miscellaneous and Consequential) Amendment Regulations 2007
82. Housing Benefit (State Pension Credit)(Local Housing Allowance and Information Sharing ) Amendment Regulations 2007
83. Housing Benefit (Amendment) Regulations 2009
84. Housing Health and Safety Rating System (England) Regulations 2005 (SI no.3208)
85. Housing Health and Safety Rating System (Wales) Regulations 2006
86. Housing (Tenancy Deposits) (Prescribed Information) Order 2007
87. Housing (Tenancy Deposit) (Specified Interest Rate) Order 2007
88. Housing (Tenancy Deposit) Order 2007
89. Income & Corporation Taxes Act 1988
90. Income Tax (Trading and other Income) Act 2005
91. Infrastructure Act 2015
92. Inheritance Tax Act 1984
93. Immigration Act 2014
94. Immigration Act 2016
95. Land Registration Act 2002
96. Land Registration Rules 2003 (Si no.1417)
97. Land Registration etc. (Scotland) Act 2012
98. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (as amended)
99. Landlord and Tenant Act 1987
100. Landlord and Tenants (Covenants) Act 1995
101. Landlord Registration Act 2002
102. Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012
103. Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation and Other Houses (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment)(England) Regulations 2012
104. Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Additional Provisions) (England) Regulations 2007
105. Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Additional Provisions) (Wales) Regulations 2007
106. Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation and Other Houses (Miscellaneous Provisions) (England) Regulations 2006
107. Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation and Other Houses (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Wales) Regulations 2006
108. Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Prescribed Descriptions) (England) Order 2006
109. Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Prescribed Descriptions) (Wales) Order 2006
110. Local Government Act 2003
111. Local Government Finance Act 1992
112. Management of Health and Safety at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2006
113. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (as amended)
114. Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006
115. Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Wales) Regulations 2006
116. Manufacture and Storage of Explosives Regulations 2005
117. Money Laundering Regulations 2003
118. Money Laundering Regulations 2007
119. Mortgage Repossessions (Protection of Tenants etc.) Act 2010
120. Occupiers Liability Act 1957
121. Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994
122. Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949
123. Private Landlord Registration (Information and Fees) (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2008
124. Private Rented Housing (Scotland) Act 2011
125. Private Rented Housing Panel (Applications and Determinations) (Scotland) Regulations 2007
126. Private Water Supplies (England) Regulations 2016
127. Proceeds of Crime Act 2002
128. Protection from Eviction Act 1977
129. Public Health Act 1961
130. Public Health Act 1936
131. Race Relations Act 1976
132. Redress Schemes for Lettings Agency Work and Property Management Work (Requirement to belong to a scheme etc.) (England) Order 2014
133. Regulatory Reform (Assured Periodic Tenancies) (Rent Increases) Order 2003
134. Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (Si no.1541)
135. Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002
136. Rent Act 1977
137. Rent Acts (Maximum Fair Rent) Order 1999
138. Rent (Scotland) Act 1984
139. Rent Officer (Housing Benefit Functions) Amendment Order 2007
140. Rent Repayment Orders (Supplementary Provisions) (England) Regulations 2007
141. Rent Repayment Orders (Supplementary Provisions) (Wales) Regulations 2008
142. Residential Property Tribunal Procedures and Fees (England) Regulations) 2011
143. Residential Property Tribunal Procedure (England) Regulations 2006
144. Residential Property Tribunal (Fees) (England) Regulations 2006
145. Residential Property Tribunal Procedure (Wales) Regulations 2006
146. Residential Property Tribunal Procedures and Fees (Wales) Regulations 2012
147. Residential Property Tribunal (Fees) (Wales) Regulations 2006
148. Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977
149. Selective Licensing of Houses (Specified Exemptions) (England) Order 2006
150. Selective Licensing of Houses (Specified Exemptions) (Wales) Order 2006
151. Selective Licensing of Houses (Additional Conditions) (Wales) Order 2006
152. Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005
153. Sewerage (Scotland) Act 1968
154. Sex Discrimination Act 1975
155. Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992
156. Tenancy Deposit Schemes (Scotland) Regulations 2011
157. Terrorism Act 2000
158. The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015
159. Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (England) Order 2010
160. Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Amendment) (England) Order 2010
161. Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (Wales) Order 2002
162. Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (England) Order 2006
163. Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (England) Order 2005
164. Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987
165. Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997
166. Town and Country Planning Act 1990
167. Tribunal Procedure (First-tier Tribunal) (Property Chamber) Rules 2013
168. Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1994
169. Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1999
170. Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts (Amendment) Regulations 2001
171. Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2013
172. Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2011
173. Water Industry Act 1999
174. Water Industry Act 1991
175. Water Industry (Schemes for Adoption of Private Sewers) Regulations 2011
176. Water Industry (Undertakers Wholly or Mainly in Wales) (Information about Non-owner Occupiers) Regulations 2014
177. Weeds Act 1959
178. Welfare Reform Act 2007
179. Welfare Reform Act 2007 (Commencement no 4 and Savings and Transitional Provisions) Order 2007
180. Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
181. Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011
182. Work at Height (Amendment) Regulations 2007
183. Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended)
184. Work at Height Overhaul of guidance January 2014
185. Homes (Fit for Human Habitation) Act 2018
186. Tenant Fee Act 2019
187. Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020

That’s an awful lot of laws that could apply to you as a private landlord operating in the UK. And to make matters worse, this does not include regulations and by-laws applied by local authorities! Worse still, these laws and individual sections within them, can change at any time.

If you’re a landlord who currently self-manages and you really don’t have the time to keep abreast of the mountain of lettings legislation, we’re here to help. Our recently launched Let Assist service is designed specifically for landlords who wish to self-manage the ongoing maintenance of the property but need our professional assistance with legislative requirements. This service also includes an annual rent appraisal / rent renewal and an annual inspection of the property.

Contact your local branch of Perry Bishop for further details and enjoy peace of mind, knowing that you’re staying on the right side of the law!

The UK Government has announced that from 1 June 2021 notice periods in England that are currently six months, will now be reduced to four months.

The current ban on bailiff-enforced evictions, introduced as an emergency measure during lockdown, will end on 31 May. As part of a phased approach through Step 3 and Step 4 of the Roadmap, notice periods are being reduced, apart from the most serious cases, which remain lower:

• anti-social behaviour (immediate to 4 weeks’ notice)
• domestic abuse in the social sector (2 to 4 weeks’ notice)
• false statement (2 to 4 weeks’ notice)
• over 4 months’ accumulated rent arrears (4 weeks’ notice)
• breach of immigration rules ‘Right to Rent (2 weeks’ notice)
• death of a tenant (2 months’ notice)

Notice periods for cases where there is less than four months’ unpaid rent, will reduce to two months’ notice from 1 August 2021. This is to support both landlords and tenants and responds to the greater difference between COVID and pre-COVID notice periods for rent arrears. The measures will also ensure renters continue to be protected with longer notice periods for the coming months while allowing landlords to access justice.

Subject to the public health advice and progress with the Roadmap, notice periods will return to pre-pandemic levels from 1 October 2021.

Financial support
Renters will continue to be supported with living costs, including rent, through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme until 30 September 2021.

Extensive financial support remains in place to help people meet their outgoings, including the furlough scheme and the Universal Credit uplift, which have both been extended until the end of September.

White Paper
Announced in the Queen’s speech on 11 May, a White Paper will be published in the Autumn that will set out proposals to create a fairer private rented sector that works for both landlords and tenants.

“Whilst the reduced notice periods are still longer than pre-COVID, it is pleasing to see the UK Government continuing to provide financial support to tenants, combatting rent arrears as well as providing clarity for the rental sector as we navigate the easing of restrictions.”
Mark Hayward
Propertymark Chief Policy Advisor

Article courtesy of Propertymark*, the go-to organisation for any questions pertaining to property and dedicated to promoting the highest industry standards.

*Perry Bishop is Propertymark protected.

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

Of course, you want to attract and choose the right tenants – those who will look after it, pay the rent, and cause you little to worry about.

But how do you find the right tenants? 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?

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.

1. 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. Ask around and consider recommendations.

2. Let your Agent Handle Viewings
Unless you are experienced, use your lettings agent to handle viewings. In our case, we have been in the industry for a long time and will get a gut feeling for the people who walk through the door. This, along with your brief always ensures we are ready to ‘vet’ prospective tenants.

Trust your agent. If they’re like us at Perry Bishop, they’ll know the type of tenant you want and will make sure any viewing requests fit with your brief.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

Contact your local Perry Bishop office or email lettings@perrybishop.co.uk for more information.

The UK Government announced their plans for the next parliamentary session in the Queen’s speech today which includes several significant proposals to change planning rules, introduce a new Building Safety Regulator, reform ground rents and explore the next steps for Renters Reform.

End to ground rents confirmed – England and Wales
Confirmation of a leasehold reform Bill that will put an end to ground rents, as per the announcement from the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, earlier in the year.

Propertymark*, the go-to organisation for any questions pertaining to property and dedicated to promoting the highest industry standards, have campaigned for years for changes to the leasehold system to resolve the issue of escalating ground rent. They have responded to multiple consultations and in 2018 their research Leasehold: A Life Sentence found that 46 per cent of leasehold house owners were unaware of the escalating ground rent when they purchased their property.

Today’s confirmation is a step in the right direction, however, Propertymark is encouraging the UK Government to extend this to those who already own a leasehold property, as well as all retirement properties, to create a level playing field.

New Building Safety Regulator
As part of the Building Safety Bill, the UK Government intend to establish a new regulator for building safety along with substantial reforms to the UK’s building safety regime. A draft Building Safety Bill has already had pre-legislative scrutiny. It was included in the 2019 Queen’s Speech and published in draft form last July. In September last year Propertymark highlighted concerns with the proposals, including the role of estate and letting agents when buying, selling and renting property, material information and the remediation of any unsafe cladding.

Planning reform and homeownership
Another key area is a new Planning Bill, which aims to simplify and speed up the planning process in England, while making it harder for homeowners to block new housing schemes.

With the recent repeated months of record-breaking activity, there is a severe lack of housing stock, simplifying the planning process and increasing the amount of house building will be a welcome answer to this growing problem, however it must be used effectively at a local level.

“A greater supply of homes will serve to correct the imbalance between supply and demand which has been intensified by the stamp duty holiday. The government has made a number of announcements in the past on simplifying the planning process, however this will only work if it really reflects local needs and demands.

We hope the Planning Bill outlined today encourages the development of housing in more affordable areas, as at the moment, most of the development taking place is in areas that are unaffordable to first-time and lower income buyers.”

Mark Hayward,
Chief Policy Advisor, Propertymark

Renters’ Reform – England
The UK Government’s consultation response on reforming tenancy law to abolish Section 21 will be published later this year, along with their proposals on the ‘lifetime’ tenancy deposit scheme.

The UK Government will publish a Renters Reform White Paper in the Autumn demonstrates that Ministers are prepared to engage with the industry to understand the impact any substantial legislative changes will have on those involved in the private rented sector.

Propertymark will be engaging with MHCLG and MPs to ensure they fully understand the consequences of any changes. They will also be scrutinising the White Paper and proposed legislation, to ensure the best possible outcome for members.

“With the focus of the new package on lifetime deposits, landlord redress and greater enforcement, the UK Government must look at ensuring that a system that would allow deposits to be passported can only take place if there is a bridging loan, with the UK Government as the guarantor, in order to ensure the remaining part of the deposit is covered should the tenant default. Additionally, the UK Government must prevent ‘double jeopardy’ and only extend redress membership to properties that are fully managed.”

Timothy Douglas,
Policy and Campaigns Manager, Propertymark

Further details about the UK Government’s agenda as set out in the Queen’s Speech can be found here.

*Perry Bishop is Propertymark protected

Anyone on the move in Bishops Cleeve, Winchcombe or any of the delightful surrounding villages can now take advantage of the services of award-winning independent sales and letting agency – Perry Bishop. Experienced and trusted agent, Daniel Hopkins, has been appointed Associate Partner and will be heading up sales and valuations in these popular residential areas north of Cheltenham , with the support of this established multi-branch property service recently named one of the best in the country.*

Perry Bishop have been helping people on the move in Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire for several years from their six prominent High Street branches based in Cirencester, Faringdon, Cheltenham, Stroud, Tetbury and Nailsworth. Their London office also ensures appropriate properties reach buyers in the Capital. Perry Bishop is the leading agent in many of the towns they serve – a result of their innovative marketing approach, exceptional customer service and brilliant results.

Daniel has lived and worked in and around Cheltenham all his life and knows the area very well. He’s an experienced estate agent who has been helping people on the move across Winchcombe, Bishops Cleeve and the surrounding villages for more than 16 years. Father to two children, both at local schools,  when he’s not selling property, Daniel enjoys family walks and exploring the Cotswolds on his mountain bike.

“Now people on the move in Bishops Cleeve or Winchcombe can benefit from the best of both worlds,” explains Gavin Wallace, Director at Perry Bishop Cheltenham. “Enjoy personal service from an experienced local agent – a single point of contact from valuation through to a successful sale – with the backing of a respected agency with the latest and best marketing tools at its disposal, a large database of home hunters and a tried and tested strategy for attracting the best buyer and delivering the best price.”

If you’re considering a move this year, Daniel is here to help.

Call Daniel on 01242 507470 for property advice and a free valuation.

* Featured in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2020 and 2021, compiled by Rightmove.