As the festive season unfolds in our charming village, we recognise the importance of celebrating without stretching the budget. Here, we’ve collated a selection of cost-effective yet delightful activities that will infuse the holiday spirit into your celebrations without burdening your finances.

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

Here’s our top cost-effective festive activity ideas from the team at S John Homes

Pop out to the local Christmas markets & events

Check out local Christmas markets or school fairs happening in Colnbrook. These events often showcase handmade crafts, local products, and festive treats. It’s a great way to enjoy the holiday spirit without breaking the bank all while supporting your community.

Indulge in a little carol singing

Look for community or church-organised carol singing events. Participating in or attending these gatherings can be a wonderful way to enjoy the season’s music and connect with others in the community.

Get crafty with a DIY decorations workshop

Host a do-it-yourself (DIY) Christmas decorations workshop with friends or neighbours. You can pool resources and create decorations together, sharing materials and ideas. It’s a cost-effective and enjoyable way to make your surroundings festive. 

Host a festive movie night at home

Instead of heading to the cinema, organise a cosy festive movie night at home. You can watch classic Christmas films, make some popcorn, get cuddled up and enjoy the comfort of your own surroundings.

Layer up and head out for a winter nature walk

Take advantage of Colnbrook’s natural surroundings with a winter nature walk. Bundle up, explore our local parks, and appreciate the beauty of the season. It’s a low-cost and healthy way to embrace the festive atmosphere.

Suggest a Secret Santa gift exchange

Organise a ‘Secret Santa’ gift exchange with friends, family, or colleagues. Set a budget for the gifts to keep it cost-effective and focus on thoughtful, personalised presents. It adds a touch of excitement and generosity to the festive season without straining your wallet, and everyone gets a little something.

Throw a Christmas potluck dinner party

Host a potluck-style Christmas dinner with friends or neighbours. Each guest can contribute a dish, making it a shared and cost-effective celebration. It also takes the pressure off the host to prepare an entire meal and if you haven’t got to know your neighbours well yet, it might be the perfect excuse to get together – you might just find new friends for the new year!

Remember, the essence of the festive season lies in the joy of sharing and spending time with loved ones. These activities should provide a delightful and budget-friendly way to celebrate Christmas this year in Colnbrook.

May your celebrations be filled with the genuine warmth of our community, the delight of local discoveries, and the magic that defines Colnbrook. From the team at S John Homes, here’s to a season of joy, togetherness, and unforgettable moments and remember, if you’re looking to move in the new year our team are here and happy to assist you in your search throughout December.

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

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at key aspects that you should consider to ensure your home is winter-ready and how to show it in its best light if you’re thinking of selling this winter. 

Banishing the bane of condensation

Condensation is a persistent issue that plagues many homes during the winter months. It results in moisture build-up on windows, walls, and ceilings, which not only affects your living environment but can also lead to more significant problems such as mould and mildew.

Here’s how you can effectively combat condensation:

Ventilation: Proper ventilation is your first line of defence. Opening windows at regular intervals allows fresh air to circulate and prevents excess moisture from accumulating. In areas where humidity is a particular concern, such as bathrooms and kitchens, be sure to make use of extractor fans.

Wiping windows: Condensation often forms on windows. Keeping a cloth or absorbent material handy to wipe down windows when moisture appears can help mitigate the issue. You can also slightly open windows on a secure latch to maintain a controlled flow of fresh air.

Seek professional guidance: If condensation remains a persistent issue, reach out to a professional for advice and assistance. They may offer solutions and recommendations to improve your home’s ventilation and insulation.

Efficient heating systems for cost-effective warmth

Maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home during winter is essential, but it doesn’t mean you have to break the bank on heating bills.

Here’s how you can maximise your heating efficiency while reducing costs:

Set the timer: Instead of keeping your heating system on full blast round the clock, use a timer to maintain a comfortable temperature during specific hours. This approach not only saves on energy costs but also ensures that your home remains warm when needed most.

Safe hot water temperature: Reduce the temperature of your hot water to a safe level. This prevents scalding and conserves energy by reducing the need for additional cold water to regulate its temperature.

Proper ventilation and maintenance

Effective ventilation and regular cleaning are essential for maintaining indoor air quality and preventing the build-up of mould and grime.

Here’s how to ensure your home remains fresh and clean during the winter:

Utilise extractor fans: If your home is equipped with extractor fans, make sure to use them in smaller rooms, particularly the bathroom and kitchen. These fans efficiently remove excess moisture and unpleasant odours. However, it’s crucial to keep the fan clean from dirt and dust to ensure optimal functionality.

Post-shower clean-up: After a shower, make it a routine to wipe down the walls, mirrors, and shower screen. This simple yet effective step can prevent mould growth and grout discolouration, keeping your bathroom fresh and clean.

Preparing your home for sale this Winter

Selling your home during the winter months can be a unique challenge, but with strategic preparation, you can make your property stand out in the market.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, as potential buyers should feel comfortable and cosy when they step inside. Consider utilising soft, neutral colours, plush throws, and decorative accents like festive winter wreaths to make your home inviting.

Ensure your home is well-lit, as natural light can be scarce during the winter. Open curtains and blinds to maximise the available light, and strategically place lamps and lighting fixtures to brighten darker areas. Don’t forget to keep walkways and driveways clear of ice and any snow to make the property safe and accessible.

Lastly, emphasise the unique advantages of your home in the winter season, such as its insulation or energy-efficient features, to attract potential buyers looking for a warm and welcoming home during the colder months.

By following these steps and being proactive in your winter preparations, you’ll not only create a more comfortable living space but also reduce your energy bills and ensure that your home remains in good condition throughout the colder months.

The effort you invest now will pay off in the form of a cosy and well-prepared home that will keep you warm and content throughout the winter season, while also making it more appealing if you decide to sell your home during these chilly months.

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

Below we look at what to plant, how to maintain your garden, and effective ways to create irresistible curb appeal this September.

Planting for late September and autumn

Planting for late September and autumn allows your garden to thrive with the right plant choices. Consider autumn blooms like chrysanthemums, asters, or pansies, which add colour and vibrancy as summer flowers wane. These hardy plants thrive in cooler temperatures, maintaining a lively garden. Additionally, ornamental grasses such as fountain grass or Japanese forest grass introduce texture and movement, turning your garden into a visual masterpiece with their gold, red, and purple hues in the autumn.

Late September is also the perfect time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Though their full beauty won’t grace your garden until next year, it’s an investment in a colourful future garden. You’ll be pleased by your efforts now, especially if you’re considering waiting until spring to sell.

Maintenance tips

Pruning and cleaning are essential tasks as leaves begin to fall. Regularly rake and clean your garden to maintain its neat appearance. Trim back any dead or overgrown branches from trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth next spring.

Even in autumn, your garden needs hydration, so be sure to water appropriately. While plants may not require as much water as in summer, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Applying a layer of mulch to flowerbeds is beneficial, helping to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth, all while providing a polished look to your garden. Additionally, consider adding a slow-release fertiliser to your plants in early autumn, providing them with the nutrients needed for the coming months.

Creating curb appeal

Creating curb appeal is essential for making a lasting impression on your home’s exterior. To achieve this, consider the following steps:

Enhance walkways by clearing fallen leaves and debris. Repair any cracks in your driveway or walkway, and consider adding outdoor lighting to illuminate the way, especially as the days get shorter.

Garden lighting should be installed to create a magical atmosphere in the evenings. Warm, inviting lights can accentuate key features and foster a welcoming ambiance.

Attend to paint and repairs as necessary. Give your home’s exterior a fresh coat of paint if needed and address minor repairs like loose fixings, broken windows, or damaged gutters.

Incorporate potted plants and decor to add a burst of colour and enhance your home’s welcoming appeal. Place potted plants near to your front door/entrance to your home. Seasonal decorations like pumpkins and wreaths can infuse your property with a cosy, autumnal atmosphere.

Keep the exterior clean and tidy by maintaining it regularly. Pressure wash, clean windows, and ensure that your grounds are well-maintained. A well-kept exterior significantly contributes to your home’s overall curb appeal. 

With careful planting, maintenance, and curb appeal enhancements, you can create a captivating outdoor space that’s a joy to experience year-round, whether that’s for yourself to enjoy, or something to be proud of when you’re looking to sell your home.

Contact Us

If you are looking for your next property to rent or buy in Slough or the surrounding areas or you are looking to let or sell your property, we are the leading independent sales and letting agents in Colnbrook and are location experts. You can contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn, and Instagram.

The latest House Price Index report shows that average asking prices for homes across the nation has remained steady so far this year, while only reporting an increase of £14 (+0.0%) from January to February, and the smallest increase on record for a January to February period, an increase is a sign of a more positive housing market for the year ahead.

With this news in mind, 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.

What can we take from the latest Rightmove HPI report?

There is more choice for buyers

After two and a half years of a fast-paced housing market, with multiple bidders and cash buyers lining up to buy every home for sale, we’re now heading into a more settled market. There’s still a shortage of available homes for sale, but with 48% more homes on the market than there was a year ago the good news is that there’s more choice for buyers.

More buyers ready to move

Many buyers are ready to get on with their move, it is spring now after all! The number of potential buyers making enquiries to estate agents had risen 11% in the last two weeks of February, compared to the same period in 2019, which is the last time any of us saw a ‘normal’ housing market. Buyers have returned with more confidence and more choice, although with revised budgets to accommodate mortgage rates, they are back and looking seriously for their next move.

Realistic asking prices for sellers is key to finding the right buyer

As we enter a slower market, setting a realistic asking price when first listing a property is key to finding the right buyer, contact us today if you would like your home valued with an honest opinion and expert knowledge of the local market. 

Lower mortgage rates and packages are coming back

The latest data shows that average mortgage rates have fallen after the uncertainty in the months following the mini-budget. Someone looking to take out a five-year fixed mortgage with a 15% deposit would be looking at an average rate of 4.82%, compared with 5.90% in October 2022, lower rates than originally predicted for now. This is great news for buyers, as lower mortgage rates mean the potential to now afford a higher-priced home than anticipated or have more disposable income to help combat the cost of living crisis.

First-time buyers are returning to the market

More sales are being processed and agreed now than at the start of this year. First-time buyers were hit hardest by the rapid increase in mortgage rates, and with many packages being removed from the market, caused havoc for many property chains. First-time buyers returning to the market with the confidence to make a purchase is a positive sign for all, allowing sellers to continue to chase their next dream home, ultimately keeping chains moving nicely.

If you’re looking to get onto the property ladder in Slough, or buy and sell in Colnbrook, contact us today. We’re ready and waiting to assist you, we have homes waiting for you to view and buyers waiting to view homes like yours.

Contact Us

If you are looking to buy, sell or rent a property in Slough and the surrounding areas, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook and are location experts. So, 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.

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

Many of our clients have come to us in the same position, it has been a difficult decision for them but they want to find something that better suits them. However, once they find their dream property it is clear that they made the right decision to pack up the boxes. We have put together some of the top reason people decide to move, if any are relatable it may mean it’s time for you and your family to consider making a move.

Here are the top 7 reasons many give when deciding it’s time to move;

The commute to work  

The cost of fuel is increasing and with concerns for the environment being a hot topic many have reassessed the commute to work. Many consider moving themselves closer to their workplace or closer to public transport networks to cut down on the commute.

No longer needing to commute

Many people have now transitioned into work-from-home roles so they are looking for a change at home to accommodate space for this. Others are realising a more desirable home location is the priority. Covid-19 created a real need to take care of mental health and drove an interest in being around more green space for walking and reconnecting with nature.

The house feels too small

Many first homes are purchased alone or in a couple, however; as life progresses, and kids, pets or even elders need to move in, the house that was once spacious and cosy is now cramped and uncomfortable. Covid-19 forced many to spend more time at home, with a real shift to home working and at-home hobbies extra space for things such as a home office or garden are top of the search lists.

The house feels too big 

On the other hand, many are finding that their homes are just too big for them. Times change, the kids move out, visitors are less, bills are increasing, time and energy for pets, cleaning or maintaining a home becomes limited. While there can be an emotional connection involved with a long-standing family home, many take the decision to move whilst it is still in their control to do so.

School catchment areas

Sometimes the home does not sit within the catchment area for the school that is desired and therefore to get a place within the school a move is key. Properties within just a few meters of each other can have a different value based on which catchment area that they are in.

Having a better network or more space to themselves

Many found Covid-19 lockdowns difficult to be away from family & friends so they are now considering moving closer to loved ones in case it was to happen again. Others realise a quiet place to enjoy their surrounding with less hustle and bustle or bumping into crowds of people is better for their health overall.

Just in need of a change

Some people just wake up and know they just aren’t happy and they need to change something. That could be internal or external to their home. Some find that their home is ageing but they don’t have the skills or time for DIY so they look for a new build with all the shiny additions. Or others are bored of the same plain walls and have more time on their hands and budget constraints means buying that bigger but older ‘fixer-upper’ home is more achievable. It could just be that they want to walk outside to something different.

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.

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

The proposal shared by Boris Johnson’s Government stated that landlords of rental properties should no longer be able to ban new or existing tenants from having pets, as part of the Renters Reform Bill designed to give tenants more power and promising the biggest reforms to the private rented sector in decades. It also says that landlords will only be able to refuse the addition of pets if there is a clear supported reason to do so, such as the property is simply too small to accommodate the requested pet.

We’ve covered some questions below where pets in rental properties are concerned, however; if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to call our expert team on 01753 683000 or email us.

Will tenants need permission to have pets?

Tenants will still need to inform their landlord if they are intending to get a new pet. Even if the proposal becomes written law and landlords won’t legally be able to just refuse a pet, it will still be necessary to get their written permission (the same as it is to make changes to most things in a rental property).

It would still be necessary information to disclose to a potential landlord when looking for a new home, whilst they cannot say no pets they still have a right to know who and what is residing in the property.

Can a landlord say no to pets?

If a tenant is currently renting a property and has requested in writing to their landlord that they intend to get a pet, the landlord must object in writing within 28 days and must provide a reasonable explanation if they are refusing the request.

It’s not clear at the moment what the legal path would be for a tenant whose landlord refuses the request and they feel it was unreasonable for them to refuse. According to the proposal, the government will “legislate to ensure landlords do not unreasonably withhold their consent” to allow pets.

‘The choice of wording ‘unreasonably’ leaves a lot of scope for interpretation, and doesn’t guarantee that owning a pet in the property will always be allowed. It is not clear what would count as a reasonable refusal, details are still to be clarified by the government however some reasons may include that the property is too small for the size of the pet, or the property is in a block of flats and the noise for neighbours would be unreasonable.

Will the property be covered for pet damage?   

Prior to 2019 a landlord could increase the deposit request for tenants if they wanted to move in with a pet or request to get a pet, this extra deposit was to account for any potential damage caused or cleaning up after the tenant and their pet left. However, when the Tenant Fee Ban of 2019 came in to effect it meant that this was no longer an option for the landlord, which lead to some placing an all-out ban on pets in their properties in turn making it difficult for tenants to find properties that allowed them to move in with their beloved pets.

If the proposal becomes law in order to cover the risk of potential damage to a property that a pet may cause, the landlord will likely be within their right to request that their tenant obtains pet insurance in order to cover any damages to the property. This is an additional cost that tenants may have to prepare for in the future.

As with any damage to a rental property, the 5-week deposit may be at risk if a pet damages the property or fleas are discovered during cleaning. Having a good inventory taken is essential for both parties when a tenant intends to moves in.

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.

The rate looks likely to continue increasing this year so If you’re looking for a property in Slough and the surrounding area now, make sure you give the leading estate agents in Colnbrook a call on 01753 683000 or email us and we’ll help you find your next home.

What is the base rate?

The base rate is the rate that the Bank of England charges all other banks and lenders when they borrow money. It is set by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), a committee of the Bank of England, their main objective is to guard the value of our money by maintaining price stability (Inflation rate) and boost our economy. One of the Bank of England’s responsibilities is to keep the UK’s rate of inflation as low as possible. The UK inflation has been on the rise, currently at 9.1%, and could go even higher, mainly due to the cost of energy supply increasing.  When inflation is high the base rate also increases with the aim to balance things out. At times like now when inflation is high, the base rate increases by the bank to the lender and these higher costs are passed on to the consumer in the form of a rise in interest rates on money borrowed. 

 Why do mortgage interest rates change? 

When the base rate increases, lenders need to pass on the costs and they do so by increasing the interest rate on mortgages. This can go both ways, when interest rates rise or fall, mortgage and loan rates tend to follow suit. Depending on the type of mortgage you have the interest rate increase may have an effect on your monthly finances. We’ve briefly outlined the various mortgages for you below to help decide what mortgage to take out and to give an indication if your existing mortgage is likely to go up straight away.

Firstly, fixed-rate mortgages…

Many homeowners have a fixed-rate mortgage, if you’re not likely to move within 2-5 years and you want to keep your payments the same this is a great mortgage to take out for planning your monthly finances. Fixed-rate means the rate stays the same as the day you borrowed the money so you won’t be immediately affected by the base rate change and will continue to pay the same amount until the end of your fixed term agreement. If you’re currently looking you will find that these mortgage offers are a little more expensive than other mortgages and have become more expensive than before, however; it may be best to secure an offer before they go up even more. One thing to take note of if you currently have one of these mortgages is the length of your mortgage and start looking for your mortgage renewal ahead of the end of your fixed term. If you fall onto the lender’s standard variable rate, this could result in a significant rise in your payments whilst you look to re-mortgage.

 …and then there are variable-rate mortgages

A variable rate mortgage is one where the amount of interest you are charged can go up and down due to tracking changes in the base rate. This means your monthly payments can be different each month. They tend to be the cheaper option than fixed-rate mortgages but they can be expensive for you when the base rate rises like it is at the moment. 

Standard Variable Rate (SVR), tracker and discount-rate mortgages are three of the main types of variable rates. The type you have will determine how your interest rate changes over time and if it is affected by the 0.25% increase.

Standard Variable Rate (SVR) mortgage – If you’re on a SVR mortgage you may be affected by the change. You’ll need to check with your lender to see if they’ve changed the rate on your mortgage.  Each lender sets its own standard variable rate for mortgages, which can be typically between 2-5% above the Bank of England’s base rate. If you took out a fixed or tracker mortgage that has come to an end, you are usually switched onto this type of mortgage which can be quite expensive. 

Tracker mortgage – Tracker mortgages follow the base rate plus a set margin, for example, the base rate plus 1% so when the base rate is low this is a great mortgage to have. Most tracker mortgages are between 2-5 years, but you can find longer offers. If you’re on this type of mortgage, your rate will go up now by the 0.25%. 

Discount mortgages – Discount mortgages work slightly differently. They provide a discount on your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR) for example, the SVR minus 1%. Repayments on discount mortgages won’t go up automatically due to the base rate rise, but there’s a chance your lender will increase its SVR by some or all of the rise in the coming days or weeks.

Is now a good time to re-mortgage?

This really depends on the type of mortgage you have and if it’s directly affected by the rise. If it is, then you might want to consider re-mortgaging to a fixed rate mortgage so you’ll be protected for a number of years against further rises. Call our expert team for competitive rates and advice on re-mortgaging on 01753 683000 or email us.

Is there a chance of the interest rate rising again this year?

The Bank of England has said that there is likely to be further rises this year, as inflation looks like it will keep rising due to the increase in price of importing goods and the increase in the cost of energy. The next meeting is in August. 

What to do if you’re worried that you can’t afford your mortgage

Don’t bury your head, seek help early. Contact your mortgage provider and ask what help they have available. You can also contact debt advice services and check for any government schemes to help. 

 If you haven’t yet bought the base rate increase could be good for your deposit saving account 

While it will cost more to borrow money at the moment, check out your banks various saving accounts as interest rates may increase. If you can put your money aside for a while you may be able to earn more interest on it, it would be worth speaking with your bank about your options.

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.

Since her Majesty’s Coronation the price of an average home has increased at a rapid pace (+2500% increase!) over the 70 years.

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

What would an average house have cost you in 1952 compared to today?

In 1952 when the Queen ascended the throne the average price of a home was just £1,891. By June 1977, the year that celebrated the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, the average house was £10,926. By half a century in (Golden Jubilee) a huge leap was seen when the nations average house price was by now £113,304.

In the five years between the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee in 2017 and today, there has been a significant increase of 25% bringing us to today’s average price of £276,755. An increase that has been clearly felt in the market for both buyers and sellers this past year.  (source: Mortgage Advice Bureau)

While this growth in house value has been positive for homes passed down through generations, long term investors and existing homeowners, it may be daunting to those desperately wanting to get on the ladder.

First time buyers shouldn’t be disheartened. Here are five of the most important tips for buyers who want to maximise their savings to get onto the property ladder, we thought we’d share them in brief with you today.

Cut down on costs – Prioritise your spending. Review your budget, cut non-essentials, make smarter journeys, and set aside leftover cash into a separate savings account to put towards your deposit.

Save small and often – Making conscious savings of small amounts will add up and make a difference. It can be as simple as choosing the less expensive option for dinner, comparing supermarket prices when you shop, or preparing lunch to take to work rather than buying out.

Work out what you can afford – Working out your incomings and your potential outgoings to secure a mortgage is crucial. Planning ahead and focusing on your goal you will know what you need to be earning, what you will need to save and by when. There are calculators online to help with this, or you can speak to an expert.

Talk to an expert – Mortgage advisers, banks and brokers, can offer you guidance on what products are available, and how this will affect the deposit you need to save. We can help you find the perfect property that fits your budget.

Use government schemes – There are a number of schemes available to first time buyers including Lifetime ISAs, shared ownership schemes and the 95% mortgage guarantee.

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. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn, and Instagram.

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

What should you do if you might miss a payment?

Get in touch with your lender. Most lenders are keen to work with their customers in financial difficulty, you will have more options if you contact your lender before you miss a payment than if you leave it until afterwards. As soon as you think there might be an issue, contact your lender straight away.

Lenders often have a special hotline for those in difficulty as well as a number of other channels through which you can speak to them. Don’t leave it until the last minute, get in front of the problem.

The worst-case scenario for homeowners is that they will lose their home. However, this is an absolute last resort for lenders. Lenders are ready to help people in financial difficulty and will work with you to explore ways to make your mortgage more affordable.

Simply contact your lender with your mortgage details, and speak to them about your options. It is also advisable to put together a budget document so you can see your incomings vs outgoings, this will help with planning as you move forward.

What are your options?

Extending your mortgage term – this is the total amount of time your load is taken and can be up to 35 years, depending on your situation. Spreading the debt over a longer period can decrease your monthly payments. This means you can continue to pay off your mortgage, although over the full term you will be paying more interest.

Change to interest-only – this will greatly impact the size of your monthly payments. However, unlike a repayment mortgage, you will only be paying the interest on your loan each month. This is a cheaper option in the short term and could be a good way to get through this difficult time.

Defer your mortgage – you can defer your mortgage and interest payments for a couple of months if that’s all you need to get back on your feet again. However, these payments are then added to your monthly payments and spread across the next one or two years,

Mortgage Holiday – check with your lender to see if you are able to take a mortgage holiday. This will give you two or three months of breathing space and the payments you don’t pay will be added to the overall amount you owe – including the interest.  During the Covid-19 pandemic the mortgage holiday benefitted many people whose finances were impacted by the lockdowns. Some lenders have continued the scheme to help people during their recovery.

While these are generally some of the options your lender might offer, this isn’t true of all lenders. Make sure you speak to them to find out which options might be best for you; taking a mortgage holiday can impact your credit score so make sure you take that into consideration.

Get in Touch

If you are looking for a rental property or are a landlord looking to buy in Slough and the surrounding areas, we are the leading independent estate agents in Colnbrook and are location experts. So, contact us on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn and Instagram.