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.

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.

A positive development for buyers and sellers?

The IMF predicts that banks and building societies will have to look to cut the costs of fixed-rate mortgages in the short- to medium-term as inflation is expected to fall sharply in the coming months.

“Recent increases in real interest rates are likely to be temporary. When inflation is brought back under control, advanced economies’ central banks are likely to ease monetary policy and bring real interest rates back towards pre-pandemic levels,” the IMF economists have said.

The so-called “natural” rates of interest, which anchor monetary policy and neither stimulate nor discourage economic activity, “will remain low in advanced economies or decline further in emerging markets,” the report concluded.

These quotes from the IMF suggest that the return of ultra-low interest rates could be just around the corner, which is good news for those looking to buy a property. If you’re looking to buy or sell now, it could be the best time to do so. 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 be happy to help.

Spring to summer is traditionally a good time to move anyway, as the weather is nicer and the days are longer, making it easier to view properties and pack up and move. Additionally, now with the possibility of the return of ultra-low interest rates, there may be a window of opportunity to secure a fixed-rate mortgage at a lower cost than has been available in recent months, making buying a property more affordable and accessible for those who have been priced out of the market by the constantly rising costs.

The housing market has been buoyant over the recent years, as we have all experienced, with low interest rates, a stamp duty holiday and changing work patterns leading to increased demand for property. The return of ultra-low interest rates could provide further stimulus to the market, leading to even more activity and growth than originally anticipated for this year. If you’re looking to sell, this could be a great time to take advantage of increased demand and potentially secure a higher price for your property.

For potential buyers, the prospect of lower mortgage costs is certainly a reason for optimism. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and stay informed about any changes to interest rates or the wider economic environment that could impact the housing market. Working with an experienced estate agent, such as ourselves, we can help you navigate the current market conditions and find the right property for your needs.

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.

As a landlord, the quality of your rental property is crucial to attracting and retaining desirable tenants and maximising on your income potential. In today’s market, it is not enough to simply have a space available for rent; if you’re looking for a good, reliable and respectful, tenant you need to make sure that it’s also a desirable place to live.

13 million people in the UK rent from a private landlord – that equates to 1 in every 5 of us. Here are some relatively easy ways to improve your rental property condition and ensure that you stand out to the more desirable tenant.

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 and lettings agents in Colnbrook a call on 01753 683000or email us and we’ll help you find your next place to call home.

6 ways to upgrade your rental property and attract desirable tenants…

Clean, repair and replace

Make sure that the property is clean and free from any clutter or debris. Repair any damage to the walls, floors, or ceilings, and fix any broken appliances or fixtures. A well-maintained, clean and tidy, property will be more attractive to tenants. A decent quality carpet should last for about 10 years with normal wear and tear, landlords are responsible for replacing worn out flooring so it may be time to review and refresh the carpets if they have been down for a long time. Check out the clearance section of DIY or carpet stores – sometimes an off-cut or a few packs of an end-of-line range of wood/laminate flooring may be just what you need to spruce up a space.

Add a fresh coat of paint

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the look and feel of a rental property. If the walls are looking dull or dated, consider repainting them in a neutral colour to give the space a fresh, modern feel. Many neutral coloured paints come in trade discount sizes, enabling you to cover most of the property at a bargain price. This can help attract a wider range of tenants who are looking to put their own stamp on the home with their own furniture and soft furnishings. Having a blank canvas can make your property more appealing for those who are keen to find a space that they can adapt to call their home.

Update the kitchen and bathroom

The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most important rooms in any rental property, a kitchen and bathroom typically lasts 10-15 years. If these rooms are outdated or in need of repair, it can be a major turn-off for potential tenants. Consider updating the cabinets, countertops, and appliances in the kitchen, and replacing any old or damaged fixtures in the bathroom. Check for mould around the shower heads and limescale around the taps, these are fairly reasonable to replace and a glimpse into the bathroom will not put a potential tenant off if your facilities look and feel clean.

Increase storage space

This could be as simple as installing some shelves, adding built-in wardrobes or even adding a small storage unit to the bathroom. By providing more storage options, you can make your property more appealing to tenants who need extra room for their belongings without having to think about moving heavy furniture, such as wardrobes, in and out of your property.

Install energy-efficient features and aim to increase your EPC rating

In today’s eco-conscious world, many renters are looking for properties that are energy-efficient. Consider installing energy-efficient appliances, double-glazed windows, and low-energy-use lighting fixtures. Not only will this make your property more attractive to renters, but it can also save money on energy costs in the long run and increase the energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of your property. Having a more energy efficient home on offer can drive a higher rental ask price, as people are looking to save on the cost of their monthly energy bills by renting a more comfortable home.

Also, as a landlord, be aware of the changes to the EPC rating requirements potentially coming in 2025/28, it is in talks now that all let homes will need to have an EPC rating of ‘C’ or above. Now is a good time to start looking at the EPC rating of your rental property and put plans in place to bring it up to the required rating ahead of the deadline. There is a financial penalty if a rental doesn’t meet the current required rating of ‘E’, this is currently £5,000 per property and may even go up to £30,000 when the new regulations come in. The current requirement is an ‘E’ rating, if you haven’t got a valid EPC you must get one now if you are planning to, or if you are already, letting your property or plan to sell a home.

Create an outdoor space

And finally, if your rental property has access to its own outdoor space, such as a patio or balcony, consider creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor living area. This could include adding some outdoor furniture, planting some plants or flowers, or adding artificial grass. You could go the extra mile and add some solar lighting to create a cosy ambiance. This can help attract tenants who value spending time outdoors by giving them their own little space to enjoy.

By making some simple and affordable upgrades to your rental property, you can make it more attractive to potential tenants and increase its rental value. By investing in your rental property, in return you can attract high-quality tenants who will take care of your property and provide you with a steady stream of rental income.

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.

We deal with some trusted legal professionals on a regular basis so if you would like us to recommend someone for your transaction, we’d be happy to introduce you. Just give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us.

So, Conveyancers, what do they really do? We take a look at what they do, step by step.

Open your file

This is the first thing they will do. Essentially, they will send out a letter with their terms of business, this file will consist of all the basic details like contact information, date of birth, and national insurance number. Your conveyancer will ask for details like your estate agent if you need a mortgage, and which lender you are using. You’ll also submit a photo ID such as a passport or driving licence too.

Many solicitors will provide you with a fixed fee estimate, this is based only on the information you have provided to them and could change if they are presented with new information to complicate the situation. Your lawyer should always tell you in advance if extra charges will be added to the bill.

Search Fees

Your solicitor will manage all your Local Authority searches. These searches will uncover any potential issues with your new property including road or rail schemes, breaches of planning regulations, and the like. You would usually pay your solicitor upfront for this as they keep your payment on account and use the balance to pay for the searches.

Connect

Your agent will put together a Memorandum of Sale which is a document containing the name and address of the buyer and the seller, the solicitors’ details for each party in the chain, and the agreed sale price. They will then make contact with the seller’s solicitors to get the ball rolling.

Collate

Your Solicitor will gather and collate all necessary paperwork and prepare it for the transaction. Once the seller’s solicitor has drawn up drafts of the contract, they will send it along with a copy of the deeds for the property. They will also be sent documents such as the Seller’s Property Information Form, Fittings and Contents For, and any Leasehold Information.

Query

You solicitor will go through all the information as it arrives with them. They will take the time to raise any queries on your behalf and get answers from your seller’s solicitors. Queries could range from a number of things from something as simple as permissions for a satellite dish to a more complicated issue such as a discrepancy on the Deeds. These issues and finding their solutions can delay the process but it is an important part of their remit. Some issues could impact the mortgage lender’s ability to lend.

Protect

Once everything has been checked twice and the documents are completed, your solicitor will send you the documents to sign and return. These contracts tend to be secure and comprehensive and are designed to protect your interests. In the past, contracts have been mailed but in today’s modern world they tend to be emailed within a secure e-signature and ID verification platform, this can speed up the process by a number of days.

Finance

Once the contracts have been signed and exchanged your solicitor will ask for your deposit. This tends to be a bank transfer of a percentage of the property value. Some banks have a transfer limit so you may choose to make payment through CHAPS, which is a high-value payment system overseen by the Bank of England, there is a small charge for using this service.

Your solicitor will ensure you have all the necessary details ahead of time. The exchange date is usually only a few days before the completion date, so make sure that you keep lines of communication open with your solicitor.

Coordinate

Your solicitor will liaise with the other parties in the chain in order to come to an agreement on exchange, completion, and moving dates. Once this is established they will inform you of a concrete date for which you can make plans to move your possessions out of your existing home and into your new one.

Exchange

Sellers at the bottom of their contract will need to be released and ready for exchange first. Once this process starts, it cascades up contracts until complete within a set timeframe. At that point, the completion date can’t then change. Your deposit will be cleared in your solicitor’s account and your completion date will be fixed in the contract.

After exchanging contracts, the purchase becomes legally binding. If you back out after signing a contract and exchange funds (e.g., deposit), there are serious consequences: not only will you lose your money, but if you don’t complete on the fixed completion date stated in the contract then it is likely that legal action could be taken against you to compensate for costs incurred by your breach of agreement or failure to follow through with what was initially agreed upon.

Completion

Your solicitor will send you the final completion statement. Any outstanding balance due in order to complete is now payable, including all legal fees and costs as well as any money paid in advance such as for searches which will be deducted from your bill. Your solicitor also requests an additional amount of cash required for a mortgage on your behalf.

Your solicitor will send the balance of your closing costs, including any fees payable to the seller’s solicitors by same-day CHAPS transfer. Once they have received payment for all fees and charges due from you, their legal team will contact our office so that we can release a set of keys to you after completion is complete.

Register

Your solicitor will then register the change of ownership with the Land Registry. Once the land registry has completed registration, you’ll be sent an office copy along with any guarantees for your new property and they will also transfer stamp duty to HM Revenue & Customs on behalf of you.

So, as you can see, conveyancing is a little more complicated than it may seem. It can be the most frustrating aspect of moving home but there are many moving parts to a property transaction; in this case, patience really is a virtue.

Get in Touch

If you would like to speak to our member of our team about your property options or have a property to let in Colnbrook and the surrounding area, make sure that you give us a call on 01753 683000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook,  LinkedIn, and Instagram.