Welcome to our December edition

Labour hosebuilding targets 2024

Situated on the sought-after Oak View Road Development in Wadebridge, this three-bedroom end terraced property presents a fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers, families, or anyone looking to call the wonderful...

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This historic 17th-century public house, once known as The White Hart and now formally knows as The Laurels Inn, sits at the heart of the village next to the church. Over the years, it has served various roles, including as a...

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The UK property market has a lot going for it thanks to a year in which mortgage rates finally dropped and confidence replaced uncertainty. This encouraged buyer demand, and the number of sales agreed increased by 25% on the previous year.* If you're considering relocating in 2025, there are numerous compelling reasons to get started. Here are 10 reasons to buy in 2025.

Fair pricing

House prices did not skyrocket in 2024, rising by an average of 1% compared with 2023.* This means you will not pay through the nose and get the house you want at a fair price, and the earlier you start, the better. 

Achieve a good selling price

You will also get a good price for your current home, which will have likely enjoyed excellent increases in value over the years. Strong levels of demand mean you will not be left waiting around for a buyer. 

Good mortgage deals

Mortgage rates improved during 2024, and the good news is this is set to continue in 2025. Now that we are getting closer to a settling point and have not fallen to the previous unsustainably low levels, the market sentiment is one of ‘move now’.

Move up

If you are moving up or selling up, buying is always worth considering when the market is on the up. The conditions for moving up the ladder are ideal, creating a real window of opportunity in 2025.

Fabulous choice

Fabulous properties are appearing in every county and almost on every street, increasing your chances of finding what you want. This is boosted further with some second homeowners and landlords selling up. 

No elections

Unless something rather unpredictable occurs, 2025 does not have to contend with the uncertainty that a general election can bring. This means you can focus on any tax or buying advantages the government offers. 

Good timing

Making an early start has numerous benefits. Many sellers are already placing their homes on the market in December in anticipation of the Boxing Day Boom and the January rush, not forgetting the early build up to the spring market. 

Start your future

With future growth levels appearing to be favourable, investing in your future now could be a good move. Investing in property can help secure your future while providing the perfect setting to enjoy so many magical moments.

Less stress more certainty

More certainty means less stress. Moving home is a big decision, but the right guidance prevents niggling worries from becoming big concerns. You will have many questions, and the answer to all of them is to use good property professionals.

It’s easier

Evolving technology that connects you to the right homes that allows virtual viewings to virtually all you will ever need during your move, makes the buying process easier. Agents in 2025 will combine tech with local expertise to give you better service.

Buying or booking a valuation? Contact us for guidance

October Zoopla HPI*

How to minimise wear and tear in your rental property without overspending

Keeping a rental property in good condition is essential for maintaining its value and attracting quality tenants. However, regular use naturally leads to wear and tear, and constant repairs or replacements can become costly. For landlords, the key is to minimise damage while keeping expenses under control. Here are some practical and cost-effective ways to reduce wear and tear in your rental property without overspending.

Choose durable materials and finishes

Investing in high-quality, durable materials for flooring, walls, and fixtures can reduce the need for frequent replacements. Hard-wearing laminate or vinyl flooring is a cost-effective alternative to carpets, as it is easier to clean and less prone to damage. Walls painted in washable, scuff-resistant paint allow for easy maintenance, reducing the need for frequent repainting. Opting for sturdy, low-maintenance kitchen units and bathroom fittings also helps minimise wear over time.

Set clear expectations with tenants

A well-informed tenant is more likely to take care of the property. Providing a clear tenancy agreement that outlines maintenance responsibilities, such as keeping carpets clean and reporting issues promptly, encourages tenants to look after their home. A simple guide on how to care for appliances, heating systems, and ventilation can also prevent unnecessary damage caused by misuse.

Use protective measures in high-traffic areas

Simple, affordable additions can significantly reduce wear in areas that experience the most use. Doormats at entrances help prevent dirt and grit from damaging flooring, while fitted furniture pads protect wooden or tiled floors from scratches. Installing door stoppers and kick plates can prevent damage to walls and skirting boards, reducing the need for repainting and repairs.

Carry out regular inspections and maintenance

Regular inspections allow landlords to catch small issues before they become expensive problems. Spotting early signs of damp, leaks, or damage gives you the chance to address them before they lead to costly repairs. A scheduled maintenance check every few months helps keep the property in good condition and reassures tenants that issues will be dealt with promptly.

Provide quality fixtures and fittings

While it may be tempting to furnish a rental property with budget-friendly items, poor-quality fixtures can break easily and require frequent replacement. Investing in sturdy door handles, strong curtain poles, and reliable kitchen appliances can save money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs. Choosing neutral, timeless designs also helps prevent the need for frequent updates due to changing trends.

Encourage responsible tenant behaviour

Encouraging tenants to report maintenance issues as soon as they arise can prevent minor problems from turning into expensive repairs. Providing a simple process for reporting issues and responding quickly to repair requests builds a positive relationship with tenants and helps keep the property well-maintained. Offering incentives for long-term tenants who take good care of the property, such as minor upgrades or professional cleaning, can also be beneficial.

Limit excessive wear with smart furnishing choices

For furnished rentals, choosing stain-resistant fabrics for sofas and chairs, and using wipeable surfaces for dining tables and worktops, can help keep furniture in good condition for longer. If you provide a washing machine, consider installing a filter to prevent damage from limescale and debris. Simple choices like these can significantly extend the lifespan of furnishings without increasing costs.

Use a professional end-of-tenancy clean

At the end of each tenancy, having the property professionally cleaned can help prevent long-term damage. Deep cleaning carpets, appliances, and bathrooms keeps them in good condition and makes it easier for new tenants to maintain the property. Some landlords include professional cleaning as a requirement in the tenancy agreement, ensuring the property is returned in good condition.

Protect your investment cost-effectively

Reducing wear and tear does not have to be expensive. By choosing durable materials, setting clear expectations, and maintaining the property proactively, landlords can keep their rental homes in excellent condition without overspending. A well-maintained property attracts responsible tenants, reduces repair costs, and helps ensure a long-term, profitable investment.

Contact us today for practical solutions to protect your property investment

Tips to make your offer more attractive to sellers without overpaying

In today’s competitive property market, securing the home you want requires more than just making a high offer. Sellers consider multiple factors when choosing a buyer, and a well-structured, appealing offer can give you the edge without stretching your budget too far. Here are some key strategies to make your offer stand out while ensuring you pay a fair price.

Get your finances in order

Sellers prefer buyers who can move quickly and with confidence. Having a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP) shows that you are financially prepared and serious about buying. If you are a cash buyer, making this clear in your offer strengthens your position, as sellers often favour buyers who do not rely on mortgage approval.

Be flexible with your timeline

A seller’s ideal buyer is someone who fits their moving plans. If they need a quick sale, being ready to proceed without delays can put you ahead of the competition. On the other hand, if they need extra time to find a new home, offering flexibility on move-in dates could work in your favour. Asking the seller about their preferred timeline and accommodating their needs can make your offer more appealing.

Keep your offer clean and simple

Avoid adding unnecessary conditions that could slow down the process. Sellers may be put off by offers that are dependent on selling another property or subject to extensive surveys and delays. A straightforward offer with fewer contingencies reassures the seller that the sale is less likely to fall through.

Establish a good relationship with the seller

Property transactions are not purely financial. Sometimes sellers favour buyers they feel a connection with. Expressing why you love the property and how you plan to care for it can create goodwill. This is especially effective when sellers have an emotional attachment to their home.

Work with a reliable estate agent

A well-regarded estate agent can present your offer in the best light and highlight your strengths as a buyer. If you are working with a trusted agent, they can communicate your seriousness and financial readiness to the seller’s agent, giving you a competitive edge.

Show you are ready for a smooth transaction

Being prepared with all necessary documents, such as proof of funds and solicitor details, demonstrates that you are serious and ready to move forward. Sellers and agents appreciate buyers who are organised and can proceed without unnecessary delays.

Win the offer without overpaying

Securing a property does not always mean offering the highest price. A well-prepared, flexible, and confident approach can make your offer more attractive without exceeding your budget. By presenting yourself as a strong, reliable buyer, you increase your chances of getting the home you want without paying over the odds.

Need expert advice on making a winning offer? Contact us Bond Oxborough Phillips for guidance on navigating the buying process successfully

The photography disconnect costing you sales

Your listing shows bright summer rooms, sun-filled gardens, and airy open spaces. Then buyers arrive in December darkness and find dimly lit rooms, bare winter gardens, and a home that looks nothing like the photos. They feel misled, question what else differs from the listing, and either walk away or offer significantly less. The property didn’t fail-your photos did.

Here’s what separates properties that still sell strongly in winter from those that linger on the market: photography that reflects reality while maximising winter appeal, avoiding the disappointment gap between listing and viewing.

Light the property like you're competing

Winter photography demands intentional lighting. Natural light is limited, and most viewings occur in darkness, so your artificial lighting must work flawlessly. Replace dim bulbs, add lamps where shadows fall, and brighten hallways and landings.

Use warm white bulbs-not harsh cool white. Warm lighting photographs invitingly and creates the cosy atmosphere winter buyers expect. Even the best photographer cannot compensate for poor property lighting, so upgrade lighting before photography, not after disappointing viewings.

Style for the season buyers are actually in

Remove summer garden photos completely-they create a disconnect the moment buyers look outside. Winter styling should feel honest and appropriate: soft throws, plump cushions, and subtle seasonal touches that suggest comfort without overwhelming Christmas décor.

Turn the heating on before photography. Radiators functioning visually and practically matter-buyers viewing cold rooms assume heating issues regardless of how photos look.

Shoot at the right winter times

The best natural winter light occurs between 10am and 2pm. Schedule photography within this window. Shooting at 4pm in December guarantees gloomy, flat images no editing can fix.

Use multiple light sources-not just ceiling lights-during photography. Lamps and layered lighting add depth and warmth that single overhead lights cannot replicate.

Get winter exterior shots right

Exterior photos should show tidy, well-maintained spaces even if gardens aren’t in bloom. Clean windows, swept paths, cleared leaves, and tidy borders signal year-round care.

Take external shots during daylight and ensure any outdoor lighting works for optional dusk photos. Winter buyers respond strongly to welcoming exteriors.

Update photos to match reality

If your listing still shows summer images, update them immediately. Outdated photos undermine trust and cause disappointment when buyers arrive. Winter buyers appreciate honest, accurately represented homes that look like the photos they viewed.

Properties that sell successfully in winter don’t pretend it’s summer. They embrace seasonal conditions, use photography strategically, and create realistic expectations that build trust and confidence.

Need winter photography and styling guidance?
Get expert advice today

Start the year strong: Property investment opportunities in 2026

The start of a new year is always an exciting time for property investors. With fresh opportunities emerging, the market can reward those who plan strategically and act decisively. From motivated sellers to shifting tenant demand, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where careful planning and informed decisions could deliver strong returns.

Spotting hidden opportunities

Every year brings new chances in the property market, and 2026 is particularly promising for savvy landlords. Motivated sellers, evolving tenant preferences, and local development projects are creating pockets of opportunity that could deliver strong rental yields and capital growth. Keep an eye on listings and regeneration zones to identify properties with untapped potential - sometimes before others even notice.

Finance as a growth lever

Expanding your portfolio isn’t just about finding the right property - it’s about using finance strategically. From remortgaging to bridging loans, there are ways to increase your purchasing power without overextending. Early discussions with lenders can unlock better rates or flexible repayment structures, helping you move quickly when the perfect opportunity arises.

High-yield hotspots

2026 will likely reward landlords who focus on areas with strong rental demand and long-term growth potential. Look beyond the obvious choices and consider commuter hubs, regeneration zones, and neighbourhoods with improving infrastructure. Often, well-selected properties in these locations outperform high-value homes in saturated markets.

Due diligence: Your secret weapon

Thorough research protects your investment. Assess property condition, review tenancy agreements, and calculate maintenance costs. Consider upgrades like energy-efficient features or smart technology to boost appeal and yield. A proactive approach can turn a standard purchase into a high-performing asset for years to come.

Timing is everything

January offers unique advantages. Sellers keen to complete after missing pre-Christmas deadlines are often more flexible, and industry professionals like solicitors and surveyors tend to have greater availability. Acting early can help you secure better deals and smoother transactions before the spring rush begins.

Get expert insight

Even seasoned landlords benefit from professional advice. Expert guidance can help you uncover overlooked opportunities, structure finance efficiently, and anticipate market changes. With the right strategy, 2026 could be your most profitable year yet.

Secure your 2026 investment edge - speak to our experts today

Clear and proactive festive communication

December is a whirlwind. Between twinkling lights, holiday dinners, and last-minute gift shopping, your tenants are juggling more than usual - and that can create small stress points for landlords too. A few thoughtful touches now can prevent January headaches, strengthen tenant loyalty, and even save you time and money. Good communication over the festive season isn’t just polite, it’s smart property management.

Get ahead of winter emergencies

Frozen pipes and heating failures rarely check the calendar. Before the coldest weeks hit, send tenants a friendly reminder covering essentials: where the stopcock is, what to do if the boiler fails, and who to contact for emergencies. Include any recent maintenance updates, such as gutter clearing or boiler servicing. Early guidance prevents 3 am panic calls and shows tenants you’re proactive.

Friendly nudges that work

A few well-timed reminders go a long way. Let tenants know about rent deadlines, bin collection changes, or building-specific rules in a short, cheerful note. Add a festive card or message for warmth - it makes tenants feel appreciated rather than lectured. Small gestures create goodwill and long-term satisfaction.

Set clear expectations for response times

December is busy for everyone. Let tenants know which issues are urgent - heating, water, security - and which may take a little longer. Being transparent reduces frustration and builds trust. When tenants know what to expect, they’re more patient and understanding.

Safety reminders without the lecture

Extra guests, decorations, and heaters increase risks. Keep reminders friendly: “We love seeing homes decorated for Christmas! Just a quick tip - avoid overloading sockets and blow out candles before bed.” Framing guidance as helpful rather than strict makes a huge difference.

Use technology to stay organised

Email, WhatsApp, or online portals let you schedule seasonal reminders in advance. Consistent, convenient communication keeps everyone calm during the hectic holiday season and reduces the chance of missed messages or misunderstandings.

Why proactive communication pays off

Tenants who feel supported pay rent on time, report issues early, take care of the property, and are more likely to renew. A little effort in December multiplies benefits throughout the year.

Your December action plan

Share emergency contacts early in the month
Schedule friendly reminders about key dates
Send a festive message or card
Clarify response times for holiday periods
Offer safety tips in a positive, helpful tone
Use tech tools to stay organised and consistent

Make this festive season stress-free for you and your tenants - start communicating proactively today.

The truth about winter renting

Your January energy bill will shock you. It happens every year, yet somehow we’re never quite prepared. This winter, UK energy prices mean the average tenant may spend around £150 a month just keeping their home liveable. But here’s the part many tenants overlook: the difference between struggling and staying comfortable often comes down to understanding which winter habits actually work - and which are costly myths.

The 18-21°C sweet spot

Most tenants waste money because of a simple misunderstanding: you don’t need your home at 23°C to feel warm. Building physics shows that consistent temperatures between 18-21°C, combined with proper layering, offer comfort without the cost spike. Each extra degree above 20°C can increase heating bills by around 10%.

What matters most isn’t the temperature, but the timing. Two hours of targeted heating in the morning and evening often outperforms constant low-level heating. Your body adapts better to steady, predictable warmth.

The radiator mistake costing you money

Cold spots at the top of radiators signal trapped air, forcing your heating system to work harder. Bleeding the radiator-a five-minute job with a £2 key-can improve efficiency and reduce bills. Many tenants skip it and then wonder why their heating feels weak.

And if furniture is pushed up against radiators? You’re heating your sofa instead of your room. Leaving a simple 10cm gap makes a noticeable difference.

The curtain timing trick

Close curtains at dusk, not bedtime. The hours immediately after sunset are when heat loss through windows is highest. Open them again at sunrise to make the most of passive daylight warmth. Thermal curtains help, but timing is more impactful than fabric.

Safety checks that matter

Your landlord must provide a carbon monoxide alarm - but these devices expire after around seven years. Check the date; an old alarm is unreliable even if it beeps on testing.

And if you’re relying on a portable heater, it may signal inadequate heating - a maintenance issue worth reporting. Portable heaters also cause more winter rental fires than any other source.

The communication that protects you

Damp patches, drafts, and weak heating aren’t “just winter problems.” They’re maintenance issues affecting both health and bills. Report concerns in writing - email is fine. Your landlord has legal obligations around habitability, and winter makes issues more urgent.

When to contact your landlord

Heating failure (emergency - especially below 5°C)
Visible damp or mould
Drafts around windows or doors
Cracked glass or broken window seals

The festive period reality

More guests, more cooking, more decorations. All of this increases energy use and strain on your electrical system. Overloaded extension leads cause blowouts and fire hazards. Heaters, ovens, and multiple fairy lights on one lead? A recipe for tripped circuits - or worse.

What actually improves winter rental life

Forget the Instagram-style hygge ideas. Real winter comfort comes from:

Consistent, efficient heating routines
Reporting maintenance issues early
Knowing tenant vs landlord responsibilities
Skipping ineffective quick fixes
Understanding your winter housing rights

Your winter action checklist

Test your carbon monoxide alarm
Bleed cold-spot radiators before December
Pull furniture 10cm away from radiators
Report damp, mould, or heating concerns in writing
Use heating timers for morning/evening cycles
Close curtains at dusk
Check extension lead limits before plugging in heaters

Struggling with winter rental issues? Get expert advice today and stay warm, safe, and stress-free this season.

The prediction problem

Every December, property predictions arrive promising certainty about next year's market. Buyers will flood back. Interest rates will stabilise. Then reality happens, shaped by factors nobody predicted, leaving sellers who believed the forecasts scrambling to adjust strategy mid-sale.

Here's what matters more than predictions: understanding which market forces will actually affect your sale, regardless of whether prices rise or fall. Successful 2026 sales won't come from guessing market direction - they'll come from positioning your property correctly for the market that exists.

The affordability reality reshaping buyer behaviour

Mortgage rates have fundamentally changed what buyers can afford. This shift isn’t temporary noise - it’s a permanent recalibration. Buyers who stretched their budgets in 2021 cannot replicate those purchases in 2026 without major income or deposit increases.

For sellers, this means pricing based on 2021-era affordability will leave properties unsold. The market isn’t returning to previous borrowing levels. Pricing must reflect what today’s buyers can realistically secure.

The location preferences that changed permanently

Remote work has reshaped buyer priorities. Commute proximity no longer commands the premiums it once did. Properties that thrive in 2026 will offer lifestyle value: garden space, home office potential, usable layouts, and meaningful local amenities.

If your primary selling point is a quick commute, that’s a weaker position than it was five years ago. Buyers now pay for daily living quality, not theoretical return-to-office convenience.

The first-time buyer market that's actually growing

Higher interest rates haven’t eliminated first-time buyers - they’ve shifted their focus. These buyers now target smaller homes, lower price brackets, and emerging outer areas. They have deposits saved, mortgage approvals ready, and realistic expectations.

For sellers of starter homes, 2026 offers strong opportunity. With fewer investors competing, first-time buyers face less pressure and are ready to move quickly when a property is priced correctly.

The energy efficiency factor becoming non-negotiable

EPC ratings now impact mortgage options and running costs directly. Buyers factor energy bills into affordability. Lenders increasingly consider efficiency in lending decisions.

Poor EPC ratings don’t just reduce offers - they restrict the buyer pool. Improving efficiency before listing is no longer optional; it’s essential for saleability.

The chain-free advantage that's worth real money

In uncertain markets, certainty becomes a premium feature. Chain-free sellers attract more buyers, achieve stronger offers, and complete faster. Whether through temporary accommodation or buying before selling, creating a chain-free position gives significant negotiating power.

What sellers who succeed in 2026 understand

Market predictions matter less than market positioning. Successful sales come from pricing reflecting current buyer capacity, emphasising property features that matter to today's buyers, addressing efficiency concerns before listing, and creating transaction certainty wherever possible.

The sellers struggling in 2026 won't be those who failed to predict market direction. They'll be those who priced for markets that no longer exist, emphasised features buyers don't value anymore, and ignored efficiency factors that now affect mortgageability directly.

Our team understands current buyer behaviour and optimal pricing strategy - get expert guidance today

The winter selling misconception

You’re considering waiting until spring because everyone assumes winter is the worst time to sell. Meanwhile, the small number of sellers who list well-prepared winter properties are capturing motivated buyers, facing minimal competition, achieving sensible prices quickly, and completing their sales while spring sellers enter crowded markets with inflated expectations that slowly adjust downward.

Here’s what separates winter sellers who succeed from those waiting for perfect spring conditions: understanding that winter offers real advantages for properties prepared specifically for the season.

Light your property like winter matters

Winter viewings often happen after dark, meaning lighting determines whether a home feels warm and inviting or cold and gloomy. Replace dim bulbs, brighten hallways, add lamps to darker corners, and use warm white lighting for an inviting atmosphere. Turn the heating on at least two hours before viewings so buyers step into genuine warmth, not lukewarm rooms.

Present winter honestly, not defensively

Remove summer garden photos that mislead buyers and replace them with realistic, well-presented winter images. Keep outdoor areas tidy: sweep paths, clear dead plants, clean windows, and empty gutters. A winter garden doesn’t need to look lush - it needs to look maintained. Indoors, use subtle winter styling such as soft throws and warm textures to create comfort without overwhelming the space.

Address the problems winter exposes

Condensation, damp patches, and mould aren’t “just winter” - they signal maintenance issues to buyers. Fix ventilation problems, resolve damp sources properly, and eliminate drafts around windows and doors. Buyers mentally deduct thousands for visible defects, and surveys will uncover issues regardless of temporary fixes.

Price realistically for the market today, not the one you hope appears in spring

Winter buyers are serious and motivated. They focus on correctly priced properties and ignore those inflated for spring optimism. Winter listings face limited competition; spring listings face a surge of new supply plus unsold winter stock adjusting downward. Pricing properly now gives far better negotiating strength than waiting for a crowded market.

Your winter selling strategy

Ensure excellent lighting throughout every room and genuine warmth during viewings. Present properties honestly for current season with maintained external areas and appropriate styling. Address visible maintenance issues particularly those winter conditions expose. Price based on current market reality rather than hoped-for spring improvements.

The sellers achieving strong winter sales understand that seasonal preparation matters as much as general presentation, and properties styled specifically for winter viewing conditions stand out when buyers are actively searching whilst competitors wait unnecessarily.

Need specific guidance on preparing your property for a successful winter sale? Get expert advice today