Our November Newsletter

When is the right time to put up your Christmas tree?

When it comes to decorating for Christmas, there's no right or wrong answer but everyone seems to have a different date where it's seen as acceptable to make a start.

Last year was unlike any other, with a last minute lockdown disrupting plans for households across the UK.

With the pandemic under better control in 2021, research suggests that Brits will be hitting the holidays even harder this year to make up for lost time with friends and family.

So, when is the right time to dress the tree?

Right after Halloween

Whilst too early for some, the putting away of pumpkins is the signal to switch gears and stage the room for the festive season.

Of those who opt for a post-Halloween set up, 22% find that decorating ahead of time relaxes them and 32% can get more excited for Christmas.*

Decorations are going up even earlier this year

Online searches for Christmas items have surged by 225% on major consumer websites like Selfridges and John Lewis, with shoppers keen to purchase lights, wreaths and trees before the risk of them selling out.**

Are you looking to sell or list your property before the end of 2021?

Even if there's a small possibility you'd be looking to get your home market-ready before the new year, it would be recommended to hold off the decorations until you've had your home appraised and the marketing photos taken, as these could date your property on the market.

For more information, contact us today.

*Not on the High Street

**House Beautiful

Tenant demand is still high!

According to a recent survey of landlords, tenant demand is only increasing across 2021, with record heights seen in the third business quarter of this year.*

Seven in ten landlords (69%) have remarked on this development within the lettings sector. Of those, 36% believe the increase to be 'significant'.

The highest levels of confidence were present in the South West and South East, where 79% and 74% are seeing promising conditions for investors.

Key drivers behind the rise in tenant interest include factors relating to the pandemic, seasonal trends and the new wave of graduates starting new jobs or students beginning the academic year in rented accommodation.

Have you been considering expanding your portfolio?

Ahead of the new year, we'd urge you to consider your options as a landlord. For a profitable 2022, here are some items you should be taking the time to review:

1) What are your tenant screening processes?

Whilst the eviction ban has lifted, if there's one thing the last year has taught us, it's to prepare for every eventuality.

You need to have rigorous checks in place to secure the best financial future for yourself and your investments, so rather than go it alone, you could defer to an experienced lettings agent in your local area to help you locate reliable tenants.

2) Larger homes have seen the steepest rise in value, but regardless of your property type, it is worth having the rental value re-assessed so that you don't lose out on your rental income.

3) Are you safeguarded against any future losses?

If tenants can't or won't pay, rent guarantee insurance can offer you a lifeline when it comes to keeping up with your mortgage payments and outgoings in the meantime.

Do you need to speak with one of our trusted local agents? Visit our website today.

*Paragon Bank

First-time buyers rush to the market with savings

The amount of first-time buyers has risen to levels that we haven’t seen in ten years.

Despite the average house price rising to a record high, this hasn’t deterred first-time buyers, as over 210,000 bought their first home in the initial six months of 2021, according to Halifax.

During the several national lockdowns, many people were able to save more than usual, allowing them to get on the property ladder quicker than anticipated. Alongside this, the bank of parents has played a large part in helping first-timers, as the average buyer is now wealthier due to bigger deposits from parents.

At Oulsnam, we’re always on hand with over 50 years of experience to help first-time buyers. Why not get in touch with us today, and see how we can assist you with the start of your property journey?

Why you should list your home before Christmas

As we approach the conclusion of 2021, you may be thinking that next year is the time for you to sell your home.

However, did you know that Rightmove’s busiest time of the year is actually between Boxing Day and New Years Day? As a result of this, listing your home before Christmas is a great way to maximise your property’s exposure on the market.

With more eyes on your home than ever before, it’s key that the marketing of your house is up to scratch. That’s why, at Oulsnam, we can take advantage of this with the very best professional photography.

Included as standard when selling with us, our team will ensure your property is shown in its best light.

Are you looking to sell your home in time for the festive rush from buyers?