If you’re ready to sell your home, or you are looking for a property to buy in Slough and the surrounding area, make sure you give the leading estate and lettings agents in Colnbrook a call on 01753 683000 or email us and we’ll help you find your next place to call home.

Here in this blog we’ll help you to identify the key signs and factors to consider when making this important decision.

Financial readiness

Assess the current value of your property and the equity you have built up. If you have substantial equity, it may be a good time to leverage it for your next property purchase. If you’re unsure of the value of your property, contact us today for a free valuation of your home.

Market conditions

A robust property market can provide an excellent opportunity to maximise your home’s value. Increased market activity often means quicker sales and better prices. Now is a great time to sell as families are wanting to move before the new school year, and others are banking on moving while the weather is nicer.

Personal circumstances

Life changes, such as starting a family or a significant salary increase, might necessitate more space or allow you to afford your dream home. Similarly, if you no longer feel excited about returning home each day, it might be time for a change.

Recognising the signs

It’s not always easy to pinpoint a single reason for selling, especially if you’re emotionally attached to your home. Here are some signs that it might be time to move:

Life changes – New additions to the family, changes in job location, or children moving out can all be good reasons for wanting to sell.

Financial improvements – A pay rise or a better financial situation might make it possible to upgrade to a better home or a more desirable location.

Market opportunities – Taking advantage of a thriving market can help you sell quickly and at a favourable price.
Desire for change – Sometimes, the need for a new environment or community can be a strong motivator for selling your home.

If you are thinking of selling but you’re unsure of what your property is worth, you can request a free market appraisal of your property via our website here, or call our team on 01753 683000, we’ll be happy to help.

Seasonal selling tips

Each season has its unique advantages for selling homes. So, whether you’re ready to sell now or in a few months, here’s our thoughts on the seasons:

Summer – Long, sunny days and a desire to move before the school year make summer a busy season for home sales.

Autumn – The beautiful autumn foliage and the urge to settle before the festive season make autumn a good time to list your home.

Winter – Although the market slows during the festive season, it often picks up in January as buyers look to start the new year afresh.

Spring – Known for its blooming gardens and motivated buyers, spring is historically a popular time to sell.

Selling your home can be a seamless and rewarding experience when you understand the market, recognise personal needs, and prepare effectively. Remember, any season can be the perfect season to sell your home with the right preparation and timing. So, are you ready to sell your home this summer.

Contact Us

If you would like to speak to someone about your property, or if you are considering buying a property, for yourself or to let or you’re in need of finding rental property, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

If you’re ready to sell your home, or you are looking for a property to buy in Slough and the surrounding area, make sure you give the leading estate and lettings agents in Colnbrook a call on 01753 683000 or email us and we’ll help you find your next place to call home.

Here are the top reasons why summer is the ideal time for selling or moving house in this charming area that we love, Colnbrook.

Increased buyer activity

During the summer months, the property market typically sees a surge in buyer activity. Families prefer to move when children are out of school to avoid disrupting their education. This means more potential buyers are actively looking for new homes, increasing the chances of selling your property quickly and at a favourable price. In Colnbrook, with its proximity to excellent schools and community amenities, we find that this trend is even more pronounced.

Longer days and better weather

The longer daylight hours and generally favourable weather conditions in summer provide more opportunities for buyers to view homes. Open houses and property showings are more appealing when the weather is pleasant, and the extended daylight means more time to fit in viewings after work. Additionally, homes often look their best in the summer, with gardens in full bloom and natural light enhancing interior spaces.

Easier moving conditions

Moving house is a physically demanding process, and summer’s warm, dry weather can make the experience far less stressful. There’s no need to worry about snow, ice, or cold rain interfering with moving day. The predictability of summer weather can lead to smoother and more efficient moves, reducing the risk of delays and damage to your belongings.

Economic considerations

Summer is often a time when people receive bonuses, tax refunds, or are simply more financially comfortable. This financial stability can lead to more serious and qualified buyers who are ready to make a significant purchase. Furthermore, the strong summer market can help sellers achieve a higher return on their investment. If you’re a homeowner in Colnbrook, this can mean maximising now on the financial benefits of selling your property.

Chance to make a great first impression

First impressions are crucial in the property market, and summer provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing your home’s exterior. Green lawns, blooming flowers, and lush landscaping can significantly boost a property’s kerb appeal, attracting more potential buyers. Homes tend to look more inviting and well-maintained in the summer, which can positively influence your buyers’ perceptions and willingness to make an offer.

Optimal time for renovations

If your home needs a bit of sprucing up before hitting the market, summer is the best time to undertake home improvement projects. The warm, dry weather is ideal for outdoor renovations like painting, landscaping, or repairing driveways. Indoor projects also benefit from the increased ventilation and natural light. These improvements can add significant value to a property, making it stand out in the market.

Community events and vibrant atmosphere

Summer is a season filled with community events and a vibrant atmosphere here in Colnbrook. Local festivals, school and church fairs, and outdoor activities can highlight the area’s community spirit and charm. These events not only make the area more attractive to potential buyers but also provide a perfect opportunity to showcase your home in a lively and appealing environment. Prospective buyers can experience first-hand the sense of community and lifestyle they can enjoy if they move to Colnbrook.

Competitive market conditions  

Given that summer is such a popular time for property transactions, the market can become more competitive. Sellers who list their homes in summer can often command higher prices due to the increased demand. With more buyers on the market, there’s a greater likelihood of receiving multiple offers, which can drive up the sale price and shorten the time your property spends on the market. In Colnbrook, this heightened demand can be particularly advantageous. If you’re ready to find out what your property is worth, contact us today on 01753 683000 or visit http://www.sjohnhomes.co.uk/property-valuation/ to book for a free market appraisal of your home.

Whether you’re looking to take advantage of the summer market conditions or simply prefer the logistical ease of a summer move, this season offers numerous benefits for homeowners and buyers alike. If you’re considering selling your home or making a move in Colnbrook, now is the perfect time to take the plunge and enjoy all the advantages that summer has to offer.

If you’re ready to make your move this summer, contact our experienced team to get started. We’re here to help you navigate the whole process and achieve the best possible outcome for your next move here in Colnbrook, Slough or the surrounding areas.

Contact Us

If you would like to speak to someone about your property, or if you are considering buying a property, for yourself or to let or you’re in need of finding rental property, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

If you’re looking for a property to buy in Colnbrook, Slough, and the surrounding area, make sure you give the leading estate and lettings agents in Colnbrook a call on 01753 683000 or email us and we’ll help you find your next place to call home.

If you’re considering buying your next home in Colnbrook, understanding mortgage rates is crucial to understanding your affordability. The recent decision by the BoE to cut the Base Rate for the first time in four years can have a notable impact on your mortgage borrowing. Staying informed about rate changes is essential to making the best financial decisions for your future when buying, selling or re-mortgaging property in Colnbrook.

Understanding the decision

The BoE’s rate hikes over the last few years were aimed at controlling high inflation. With inflation now under control, the BoE has decided to ease financial pressure on businesses and households by lowering the Base Rate, indicating that their strategies to manage inflation are effective.

Impact on mortgage rates

Earlier in the year, an unexpected rise in inflation pushed mortgage rates higher. However, recent positive inflation reports have led to stabilised and even declining mortgage rates. Competition among lenders has intensified, resulting in noticeable rate drops, including the reintroduction of sub-4% mortgage rates for those with substantial deposits. Currently, the average 5-year fixed mortgage rate is down to 4.87%, and the average 2-year fixed rate has dropped to 5.25%. This is good news for those looking to secure affordable homes in Colnbrook.

What this means for your current mortgage

For those on fixed-rate mortgages, monthly payments will remain unchanged until the end of the term. However, if you have a tracker or variable-rate mortgage, the Base Rate reduction should now lower your monthly payments. If you’re considering moving home in Colnbrook, using a mortgage calculator can help you determine your borrowing capacity. Additionally, applying for a Mortgage in Principle can provide a more personalised estimate.

Affordability considerations

Lenders use ‘stress test’ calculations to ensure borrowers can afford their mortgages even if repayments increase significantly. These calculations are linked to Standard Variable Rates (SVRs), which might start to reduce following the Base Rate cut, potentially improving affordability for borrowers. Ensure to keep on top of what you can borrow when looking for a new home as this will help you to set your budget or what your maximum offer would be on your next home.

The Mortgage Charter

If you are currently worried about your mortgage, there is help available for you. Introduced in July 2023 by the UK Government, the Mortgage Charter aims to assist borrowers struggling with payments or those nearing the end of their fixed-rate terms. It encourages lenders to offer flexible options, such as locking in new deals up to six months before the current rate ends. Re-mortgaging with another lender remains an option, though it involves a lengthier process, including income checks and home valuations. If you feel this may be something that could help you, visit the gov.uk website here or speak to your current lender if you are worried about your mortgage repayments.

Future Interest Rate trends

The BoE’s Monetary Policy Committee meets every six weeks to review and adjust interest rates. While a continued downward trend in rates is expected, it is unlikely that rates will return to the historic lows seen in 2021. Market forecasts suggest another potential 0.25% cut by the end of this year, but this will depend on the broader economic environment. We will continue to monitor this and bring you news on any changes affecting the property market in Colnbrook, Slough and surrounding areas.

The recent Base Rate cut by the Bank of England marks a positive step for borrowers, indicating a stabilisation in the financial landscape, something we are very excited about for our clients. For Colnbrook residents old and new, this could mean more favourable mortgage rates and improved affordability in the near future.

If you’re thinking of selling your home and upsizing in Colnbrook and would like a free Valuation of your property, contact us today. Our team is ready to assist you with a professional assessment to ensure you get the best value for your property.

Contact Us

If you would like to speak to someone about your property, or if you are considering buying a property, for yourself or to let or you’re in need of finding rental property, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

If you’re looking for a property to buy in Slough and the surrounding areas, make sure you give the leading estate and lettings agents in Colnbrook a call on 01753 683000 or email us and we’ll help you find your next place to call home.

In this blog post you’ll find some budget-friendly tips to revamp your bedroom and infuse it with cosy winter vibes.

Aim for warm textiles and layer up

Embrace the winter season by adding layers of warmth to your bedroom. Look for soft, plush blankets, and throws that you can drape over your bed or an accent chair. Consider updating your bedding with flannel sheets or a cosy duvet cover in rich, seasonal colours.

Add a little festive lighting

Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with strategic lighting. Opt for soft, warm-toned bulbs or fairy lights to replace harsh overhead lighting. Consider adding a bedside lamp with a dimmer switch for customisable ambiance. Adding string lights or fairy lights around the headboard or along the walls can also add a touch of magic to your bedroom.

Be creative! DIY art and decor

Personalise your space by incorporating DIY art and decor elements. Create your own winter-themed artwork or repurpose old frames to showcase cherished memories. Consider adding a touch of greenery with budget-friendly potted plants or winter branches for a natural and festive feel.

Clever storage solutions

Declutter your space by incorporating smart storage solutions. Look for affordable storage bins or baskets that complement your bedroom decor. Consider dual-purpose furniture, like storage ottomans or under-bed storage containers, to maximise space without breaking the bank.

Seasonal scents

Infuse your bedroom with the scents of the season. Opt for budget-friendly scented candles or essential oil diffusers with winter-inspired fragrances such as pine, cinnamon, or vanilla. A well-chosen scent can evoke a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your revamped bedroom.

Bargain finds

Explore local charity shops or online marketplaces for unique and affordable bedroom decor items. You might discover vintage artwork, cosy throw pillows, or interesting accent pieces that can add character to your space without exceeding your budget.

Rearrange furniture

Sometimes a simple rearrangement of furniture can breathe new life into your bedroom. Experiment with different layouts to maximise space and create a more functional and visually appealing arrangement.

Revamping your bedroom on a budget doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform your space into a cosy winter retreat. And, if you’re still searching for your Zen, maybe your perfect bedroom is just a move away! Feel free to explore new possibilities on our website here, call our expert team on 01753 683000 or email us. 

Contact Us

If you would like to speak to someone about your property, or if you are considering buying a property, for yourself or to let or you’re in need of finding rental property, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

We are the leading estate agents in Colnbrook so if you are looking to buy or sell in the area, or you are a landlord or looking to rent in the area and have any questions, make sure to give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us.

In this blog, we invite you to uncover the tranquil charms of Colnbrook and see why it might be the next perfect place for you to call home.

Historical heritage and modern comforts

Colnbrook’s rich history finds expression in its architecture and streets adorned with charming cottages and historic buildings. This village has origins dating back to Roman times, and the harmonious blend of historical heritage and modern comforts creates a unique ambiance that appeals to residents seeking both character and convenience. Imagine waking up in a picturesque cottage that exudes old-world charm, yet being just a short distance away from modern amenities, schools, and transportation options.

Community spirit

One of the most heart-warming qualities of Colnbrook is its strong sense of community. In an era where bustling urban centres can sometimes feel impersonal, Colnbrook offers a closely-knit community where neighbours become friends and local businesses greet you with a warm smile. The village hosts various events throughout the year, from farmers’ markets to cultural festivals, fostering a sense of togetherness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Nature’s haven

Imagine spending weekends leisurely strolling along the riverbanks, indulging in picnics in the parks, and exploring the numerous walking and cycling trails that meander through the landscape. It’s a breath of fresh air for both body and soul. For those who cherish the beauty of nature, Colnbrook has much to offer. The Colne Valley Regional Park is only short drive, with its tranquil waterways, lush green spaces, and diverse wildlife, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Convenient connectivity

Colnbrook’s seemingly remote location doesn’t equate to sacrificing connectivity. The village is strategically situated near major roadways, including the M25 and M4, providing easy access to London, Heathrow Airport, and beyond. This makes Colnbrook an ideal choice for those who desire a peaceful retreat while still needing to commute or travel frequently.

Real estate gems

As the leading estate agents in Colnbrook we have a deep understanding of the real estate market in the area. From charming cottages to modern family homes and chic apartments, Colnbrook offers a diverse range of properties to suit various preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a young professional in search of a serene abode after a busy day or a family looking for a spacious home with room to grow, Colnbrook has something for everyone.

At S. John Homes, we stand ready to guide you through the process of finding the perfect property in this charming village. Contact us today to take the first step towards embracing the tranquil charms of Colnbrook and fashioning it into your personal haven of peace and comfort.

Contact Us

If you would like to speak to someone about your property, or if you are considering buying a property to let or renting a property, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

We’d also like to take the opportunity to thank our talented team of property professionals for the outstanding work they have put in over 2022, and of course thank you to all of our clients, vendors, tenants, and landlords for entrusting us with your property transactions – without you, we wouldn’t continue to be here. We will raise a glass to a successful year.

So, settle in and get ready for a roundup of our year, and if you are looking to buy or sell a home in Colnbrook, make sure you call us on 01753 683000 or email us.

Highlights of our year –  from the office

It has been great to get out and about again in 2022, meeting new people through personal or work experiences.

Mel and Steve took a break for a once in a lifetime trip to Alaska – Photos on Facebook.

Steve plays for Chelsea walking football and attended the annual dinner, where he was able to meet Carlo Cudicini.

Telmo has recently become a new father, please join us in congratulating him.

Sales and Rentals,  despite expecting a tough year and the market trend of house prices, sales were up over summer, a really busy period for us and we continue to have a pool of clients waiting for their next home.

Highlights from our blog – for landlords and tenants

In February, we brought you our top tips for attracting tenants. March covered making a rented property a home and for July we looked at the Government’s proposal for making life easier for tenants with pets in rental properties. We look forward to bringing you more news and industry related insights next year.

Highlights from our blog – for homeowners and prospective buyers  

This year has been a challenging one for home owners and those getting onto the property ladder. The year started with an interest rate rise (nothing like what we’re experiencing now!) but our blog covered the reality of an interest increase, we also covered it again in June when the base rate rose again, and started to worry home owners on the cost of their mortgage payments so we looked at what it would mean for each mortgage type and why re-mortgaging was a good idea to do before winter.

We also gave you some industry insights, guides and ‘how to’ lists from buying and selling a property, how to cope with mortgage struggles, a homeowner to do list for managing the cost of living crisis. In June, we took a trip down memory lane and looked at how house prices have changed over the last 70 years. From July, we brought you the top reasons why people move house, and as mortgages started to hit the news almost daily, how a mortgage in principle can help to buy a new home. After the summer, we reported on our strong summer of sales, and as the air started to cool provided you with our top tips for preparing your home for sale this autumn.

We concluded our blogs for this year with our blog on helping you to get into the festive mood, after a busy and crazy year!

Festive opening times –  our Christmas period opening hours are:

Christmas Eve: Open
Christmas Day: Closed
Boxing Day: Closed
Tuesday 27th Dec: (Bank holiday) Closed
Wednesday 28th Dec: Open
Thursday 29th Dec: Open
Friday 30th Dec: Open
Saturday 31st Dec: Open
Sunday 1st January: Closed
Monday 2nd January: Closed
Tuesday 3rd January: Open

Pop in to see us, and if we don’t see you now for the festive period, we hope you have the most wonderful Christmas and our very best wishes for a happy and healthy 2023.

Get in touch

If you are looking to buy or sell a property in and around the Colnbrook area, we are still open now and into the new year, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook and are location experts. Make sure you contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn, and Instagram.

However, we know it can be difficult to get into the mood with the mental overload at this time of year, so with a week left, we thought we’d help you to get into a festive mood by bringing you our top 7 ways to get a bounce in your step, the tinsel up, and in a proper cheery mood ahead of the big day.

If you’re thinking of moving in the new year, take some time now to browse homes in the area. We are still open right up to Christmas Eve and we are the leading estate agents in Colnbrook so if you are looking to buy or sell in the area, or you are a landlord or looking to rent in the area and have any questions, make sure to give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us.

HERE ARE 7 WAYS TO GET YOURSELF IN THE FESTIVE MOOD…

Pop the TV on and cosy up –  Maybe an obvious and easy one with the current temperatures outside. Grab an Oodie, fluffy socks and pop on Home Alone. Still not ready? Go for The Grinch or A Christmas Carol, that might just do the trick.

Head on down to a panto – Pantomimes are everywhere, book one in and head on down for a bit of “oh no he didn’t, oh yes he did!”. Audience participation is encouraged, and a real cheery mood created. You’ll be bouncing out of there feeling ready to tackle the tree, last minute presents and the food shop!

Light some festive scented candles – From mulled wine, cinnamon, pine, orange to clove, gingerbread, rosemary and thyme. Fill your home with the scents of Christmas and have all the best memories floating back in.

Get out and about – Soak in the festive atmosphere at a local pub or restaurant, take a stroll through a park, get your nose all red and head home for a movie, as mentioned above!

Shop local – We totally get that Christmas shopping can be an awful experience. But it doesn’t have to be! Take it easy, shop local and support your town, it may just help put a meal on their table.

Bake a treat at home – There is nothing more satisfying than when others enjoy your baked goods. You don’t have to go wild. Fill your home with the scent of Cookies or Gingerbread, and soak it all in.

Sight see, go in search of Christmas lights – Facebook is great for finding out about the best local attractions and the streets to visit for free, or venture out a bit further to Christmas light extravaganzas, they’ll have you feeling all bright and merry.

So there it is, when you’re not busy browsing for a new home, 7 ways to get you in the festive mood and ready for Christmas next week.

Get in Touch

If you are looking to move to Slough and the surrounding areas, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook and are location experts, we have homes suitable for many budgets ready to view. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

We are the leading estate agents in Colnbrook so if you are looking to buy or sell in the area, or you are a landlord or looking to rent in the area and have any questions, make sure to give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us.

Why now is a good time to put your home on the market

Buyers tend to have a move date in mind

Autumn has arrived and so comes along all of the plans and thoughts for Christmas and the new year. Many want a new home in time for Christmas or to start the new year with a new house to make a home. We’ve had a busy summer; many people book in curious viewings as the days are brighter and warmer, and the get up and go is easier. When you get to autumn you get the more serious buyers, with a time frame in mind, that tend to book viewings on properties that they are more likely to offer on. The days are shorter so time for viewings is more precious and so is the focus on the end goal.

Number of homes coming onto the market is quieter than during other seasons

Spring is known as the busiest time for our industry for homes coming onto the market, so take advantage of the quieter months by getting your home listed and more easily seen by buyers keen to move for the new year. Buyer demand is still present, there are many people looking for the same properties so competition is still very high vs number of properties available. A new home on the market that is presented well stands out to the buyer.

How to present your home

Presentation is key for encouraging buyers to picture their lives in your property. It’s getting cold outside; the trees are turning a range of beautiful golden colours and the air is feeling cooler, so it’s time to invite people inside. Spring and summer sales are really focused on the space of the garden, how open and airy the home is, when it gets to autumn people are looking for the cosy factor, and you can do many things to make your home warm and inviting.

First impressions count

When the buyer first arrives at your home the exterior creates their first impression. Gathering up leaves, cutting the lawn, clipping back trees, and trimming of dead heads, and ensuring that the garden is tidy sets the perfect tone before they even reach the front door. Another top tip is to hide the bins, this can be done with housing for them or finding a different place for them to be stored so that they aren’t the first thing that a buyer sees. If you don’t have much choice in where the bins go, ensure that they are clean, tidy and numbered neatly.

If you’re having viewings in the early evening ensure to light up outside, and make your house number/name easy to see so that the buyer hasn’t found it hard to locate you, creating a feeling of stress before they’ve reached your property.

Going the extra mile

If needed you may want to consider cleaning your cladding or repainting, ensuring that a fresh exterior greets the buyer. Check your guttering too, autumn brings lots of fallen leaves and heavy rain so you don’t want blocked gutters to steal the focus.

Ensure to replace any old door mats as wiping of boots is likely to be essential before stepping inside and the feel and look of a mat is likely to be noticed during this season. Your front door is the ideal place to add your first touch of autumn, by hanging an autumnal themed door wreath.

Warm and cosy on arrival

Your buyer will be coming in from the cold so they might not necessarily want to take off their shoes if they are feeling a bit chilly, by providing shoe covers is one way to protect your home but to also make them feel comfortable to explore your home if they wish to keep their shoes on.

Heating your home, while we know that energy use is in question a lot at the moment, being smart with your heating can set the tone when stepping inside. You don’t want to be too hot that they need to escape, and you don’t want to be too cold that they can’t relax, so plan your heating or your log burner to reach the right temperature before your buyer arrives and they are more likely feel comfortable enough at the door to remove their shoes.

Think orange, brown, and setting a welcoming tone

We’re talking about autumnal colours, bringing the outside-inside in many creative ways; pumpkins, root veg, fallen leaves, spices. Fruit bowls can be refilled with autumnal themed vegetables, vases filled with leaves and twigs, while scented warm glowing candles can add to the ambiance to the room.

Orange, browns and neutral colours can be easily added through cushions, throws, cosy rugs and layered bedding. Getting the lighting right is essential for this time of year, especially on a darker day. Carefully placed lamps, candles, and mirrors, are useful in brightening up areas of your home.

Clean your carpets and dust down your home

After all of the coming and going of summer, flip flops, bare feet, and pets running from outside in, can dull your carpets. A clean carpet can be seen and felt by buyers. It is also a good time to declutter and show as much floor space as you can.

Cobwebs are great for Halloween but not great for selling your home. Dusting down corners, behind and around doors, and wiping off table tops and televisions can help to provide a cleaner glimpse into living areas, as your home and furniture will sparkle.

Contact Us

We’re hoping we’ve inspired you to take the first steps to prepare your home for sale and look for your next dream home. If you are looking for your next property in Slough or the surrounding areas, we are the leading independent letting agents in Colnbrook and are location experts. If you have any further questions about Mortgages in Principle, or Mortgage offers we will endeavour to help you.  So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn, and Instagram.

We wanted to provide some simple guidance to help landlords make smart decisions about their property and stay safe while doing so.

If you are looking for a buy to let property in Slough and the surrounding areas or are a landlord looking to get some help from an agency, make sure you give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us.

Using an Agent

While this is an obvious piece of advice to us, you would be surprised how many landlords start out by managing their lettings themselves, before coming to speak to an agent when it all gets a bit much.

Reputable Lettings Agents will not only offer different levels of service they will also guide you through the potential pitfalls which will inevitably crop up.

Tenancy Agreements

The law doesn’t not require you to have a written tenancy agreement? This is not something we would ever recommend but it is good to know. It is best practice to get your tenancy agreement in writing so that both landlord and tenant are familiar with their rights and responsibilities.

While many templates for tenancy agreements exist online, we recommend seeking the advice of a qualified letting agent.

Tenancy Deposit Protection

If you are taking a deposit from your tenant, remember it remains their money! You will need to register it with one of the Government authorised tenancy deposit protection schemes and provide a certificate to the tenant within 30 days. If you fail to do this you could end up having to return the full deposit along with a fine of up to three times the value of the deposit.

Unprotected deposits could put landlords at risk and could make it difficult to regain possession of the property should things go wrong.

Right to Rent Checks

Since February 2016 landlords have been required to carry out ID checks to restrict illegal immigrants from accessing private rented housing. These checks apply to all adult occupiers of the household and the Home Office has produced a guide outlining the forms of identification which are accepted. You can find the guide here.

Property Licensing

Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) tend be homes in which unrelated people share facilities like the kitchen and bathroom. Depending on the size of the property and the number of inhabitants, they may need to be licensed, make sure you check with your local authority.

Health & Safety

It is the landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the property is safe. This means that all gas appliances must be inspected and passed by a qualified professional and tenants must be given a copy of any certification within 28 days of the start of the tenancy.

Landlords are also required to provide working smoke alarms on each floor and a Carbon Monoxide alarm in every room in which there is a fuel burning appliance. While checks on the alarms on the first day of the tenancy are the responsibility of the landlord, the changing of batteries is the tenants’ responsibility – any faulty units must be replaced by the landlord.

All furniture must be fire resistant and carry a label to confirm this; any furniture which does not comply with basic fire tests must be removed from the property and stricken from any inventory.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to becoming a landlord and running your own properties and it is always recommended that you engage with a lettings agent who will be qualified to advise you on the right decisions for you and your property.

Get in Touch

Remember, as the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook and the surrounding areas we are location experts and are always happy to talk you through your property options. You can contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.

It’s fair to say that estate agents have had a bad reputation in the past, and a few bad apples have really made it difficult for the rest of us to win peoples’ trust back. According to an Ipsos MORI survey in 2017 only 26% of people trusted estate agency as a profession, in 2018 this improved to 30% and we think the figure will continue to increase in the 2019 survey.

Lettings Agents

While the surveys above refer predominantly to sales agents we can make the assumption that the figures for general property agents of letting agents would be similar. Our industry deals with a serious phase in a person’s life. Moving property is one of the most stressful life events you can go through, whether you are buying or renting the upheaval can take its toll.

When you are dealing with such an emotive life event it doesn’t take much to lose the trust of your customer when things go wrong. This is a problem that the property lettings industry is starting to address.

A new breed

There are many new rules under discussion by the Property Ombudsman to improve the credibility of the profession, something we are all for here at S John Homes. These new rules will not only protect prospective buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants but also the agents themselves. There will be much more focus on setting standards for professional conduct across the board.

This is music to our ears, we have been setting excellent standards since the beginning and are delighted to see the rest of the industry joining us. The new rules will promote the profession to a new breed of agent, setting standards in education with specific qualifications which will demonstrate to the general public that we are a progressive, forward-thinking and trustworthy profession.

Regulating the profession

Standards within our industry vary and there are a great many complexities across the board such as, differences in legislation between English, Welsh and Scottish agents. As it is the industry is a difficult place to make a business work and along with the Tenancy Fees Ban and new Tax laws for landlords, the landscape is ever changing.

There is no guarantee that the new laws will standardise the industry overnight but, if it handled in the right way it could mean a much needed rebuilding of trust between the industry and the general public. This would be good news for all involved.

Get in Touch

If you are looking for properties in Colnbrook and the surrounding areas of Windsor and Slough, make sure you give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.