Posts Tagged ‘property’

10 ways to prepare your home for viewings this autumn

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As the conkers fall and the days grow shorter and cooler, don’t hide away from making your next move. Autumn remains an excellent time to put your home on the market, the season’s vibrant colours can create a beautiful backdrop, and buyers are often motivated by the thought of settling into a new place for the start of a fresh new year. The cosy atmosphere that autumn brings can really help highlight your home’s warmth and character.

If you’re considering moving, renting, or buying, take some time to explore our available properties in Wimbledon, Wimbledon Village and the surrounding areas. For any questions that you may have regarding property contact us today. If you would like a free Valuation of your own property please visit our website here or call us on 020 8971 6780.

If you’re preparing for viewings, here are ten tips to ensure your property makes a great impression this season.

Create a welcoming entrance

The front of your home is the first thing buyers will see, so make it inviting. Sweep away fallen leaves, clean the windows, and ensure the front door looks clean and fresh. Adding an autumnal wreath or some potted plants can give a warm and homely feel.

Tidy up the garden

Even though the garden may not be in full bloom, a tidy outdoor space is still important. Rake up leaves, trim any overgrown shrubs, and clean garden furniture. Consider adding some seasonal flowers like pansies or chrysanthemums to brighten up the space.

Maximise natural light

With autumn’s shorter days, natural light is at a premium. Open curtains and blinds fully to let in as much daylight as possible. Clean the windows to ensure they’re streak-free and dry, and remove any items blocking the light from entering.

Switch to cosy lighting

As the evenings draw in, soft, warm lighting can create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. Consider using lamps, rather than harsh overhead lights, and make sure all bulbs are in working order. If you have a fireplace, lighting it for viewings can really add to the autumnal charm.

Keep your home warm

Ensure your home feels warm and comfortable when potential buyers visit. If it’s chilly outside, turn the heating on before viewings begin. A cold house can be off-putting, so keep things toasty to create a positive impression.

Highlight seasonal comforts

Autumn is the season for cosiness. Lay out some chunky knit blankets on your sofa or add autumn-themed cushions to your living room. A few subtle, seasonal touches can make your home feel warm and inviting without being over the top.

Clean your home thoroughly

This is a given for any time of year, but it’s especially important to keep your home spotless in autumn, when mud and wet leaves can easily be tracked inside. Regularly vacuum and mop floors, and keep surfaces dust-free. If you have pets, be mindful of any shedding on furniture that can look untidy.

Check heating and insulation

Buyers will be thinking about how energy-efficient your home is as they head into the colder months. Ensure your boiler is in good working order and consider having it serviced if necessary. If your windows or doors let in a draft, it’s worth addressing these issues before viewings begin, as potential buyers could see them as future problems.

Embrace autumn scents

Scent can have a big impact on how people feel in a space. Light a few scented candles or use a diffuser with subtle autumn fragrances, such as cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice. Just be sure to keep it light and not overpowering, subtle is key.

Declutter, donate, throw away or pack

This is especially important when preparing your home for viewings. Start to clear away excess items, such as out-of-season clothing or summer garden tools and toys. A clutter-free space helps buyers focus on the home itself rather than your personal belongings. You want them to picture themselves living there.

If you’re selling your home this autumn, following these tips will help showcase your property in its best light.

How we can help

We understand that moving can feel overwhelming, especially with the added pressure of the festive season coming up. That’s why our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive support every step of the way, from selling your current home to finding your perfect new property.

Our dedicated team provides personalised service, handling all the details so you can focus on enjoying your new home. Whether it’s coordinating viewings, managing negotiations, or handling paperwork, we’re committed to making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Ready to get started? 

If you’re thinking of making a move in time for Christmas or starting 2025 in a new home, don’t wait. Now is the perfect time to take action and ensure everything falls into place smoothly. Get in touch with our experienced team today to arrange a consultation or book a valuation of your property here: https://andrew-scott-robertson.pro-val.propertylogic.net

Let us take care of the details so you can focus on your exciting new start!

Contact our expert Residential Sales team on 020 8971 6780 for any property related questions and see more about how we can help with your move here: https://www.as-r.co.uk/sales/why-choose-us/

We are a proud member of The Guild of Property Professionals, a unique network of 800+ Independent Estate Agents across the UK. We can promote your property far and wide thanks to our nationwide (and international) connections. If you’d like to speak to a property expert, give us a call on 020 8971 6780 for a quick chat or visit our website for a complimentary appraisal of your property: https://andrew-scott-robertson.pro-val.propertylogic.net

10 ways to prepare your home for viewings this autumn

Posted by

As the conkers fall and the days grow shorter and cooler, don’t hide away from making your next move. Autumn remains an excellent time to put your home on the market, the season’s vibrant colours can create a beautiful backdrop, and buyers are often motivated by the thought of settling into a new place for the start of a fresh new year. The cosy atmosphere that autumn brings can really help highlight your home’s warmth and character.

If you’re considering moving, renting, or buying, take some time to explore our available properties in Wimbledon, Wimbledon Village and the surrounding areas. For any questions that you may have regarding property contact us today. If you would like a free Valuation of your own property please visit our website here or call us on 020 8971 6780.

If you’re preparing for viewings, here are ten tips to ensure your property makes a great impression this season.

Create a welcoming entrance

The front of your home is the first thing buyers will see, so make it inviting. Sweep away fallen leaves, clean the windows, and ensure the front door looks clean and fresh. Adding an autumnal wreath or some potted plants can give a warm and homely feel.

Tidy up the garden

Even though the garden may not be in full bloom, a tidy outdoor space is still important. Rake up leaves, trim any overgrown shrubs, and clean garden furniture. Consider adding some seasonal flowers like pansies or chrysanthemums to brighten up the space.

Maximise natural light

With autumn’s shorter days, natural light is at a premium. Open curtains and blinds fully to let in as much daylight as possible. Clean the windows to ensure they’re streak-free and dry, and remove any items blocking the light from entering.

Switch to cosy lighting

As the evenings draw in, soft, warm lighting can create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. Consider using lamps, rather than harsh overhead lights, and make sure all bulbs are in working order. If you have a fireplace, lighting it for viewings can really add to the autumnal charm.

Keep your home warm

Ensure your home feels warm and comfortable when potential buyers visit. If it’s chilly outside, turn the heating on before viewings begin. A cold house can be off-putting, so keep things toasty to create a positive impression.

Highlight seasonal comforts

Autumn is the season for cosiness. Lay out some chunky knit blankets on your sofa or add autumn-themed cushions to your living room. A few subtle, seasonal touches can make your home feel warm and inviting without being over the top.

Clean your home thoroughly

This is a given for any time of year, but it’s especially important to keep your home spotless in autumn, when mud and wet leaves can easily be tracked inside. Regularly vacuum and mop floors, and keep surfaces dust-free. If you have pets, be mindful of any shedding on furniture that can look untidy.

Check heating and insulation

Buyers will be thinking about how energy-efficient your home is as they head into the colder months. Ensure your boiler is in good working order and consider having it serviced if necessary. If your windows or doors let in a draft, it’s worth addressing these issues before viewings begin, as potential buyers could see them as future problems.

Embrace autumn scents

Scent can have a big impact on how people feel in a space. Light a few scented candles or use a diffuser with subtle autumn fragrances, such as cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice. Just be sure to keep it light and not overpowering, subtle is key.

Declutter, donate, throw away or pack

This is especially important when preparing your home for viewings. Start to clear away excess items, such as out-of-season clothing or summer garden tools and toys. A clutter-free space helps buyers focus on the home itself rather than your personal belongings. You want them to picture themselves living there.

If you’re selling your home this autumn, following these tips will help showcase your property in its best light.

How we can help

We understand that moving can feel overwhelming, especially with the added pressure of the festive season coming up. That’s why our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive support every step of the way, from selling your current home to finding your perfect new property.

Our dedicated team provides personalised service, handling all the details so you can focus on enjoying your new home. Whether it’s coordinating viewings, managing negotiations, or handling paperwork, we’re committed to making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Ready to get started? 

If you’re thinking of making a move in time for Christmas or starting 2025 in a new home, don’t wait. Now is the perfect time to take action and ensure everything falls into place smoothly. Get in touch with our experienced team today to arrange a consultation or book a valuation of your property here: https://andrew-scott-robertson.pro-val.propertylogic.net

Let us take care of the details so you can focus on your exciting new start!

Contact our expert Residential Sales team on 020 8971 6780 for any property related questions and see more about how we can help with your move here: https://www.as-r.co.uk/sales/why-choose-us/

We are a proud member of The Guild of Property Professionals, a unique network of 800+ Independent Estate Agents across the UK. We can promote your property far and wide thanks to our nationwide (and international) connections. If you’d like to speak to a property expert, give us a call on 020 8971 6780 for a quick chat or visit our website for a complimentary appraisal of your property: https://andrew-scott-robertson.pro-val.propertylogic.net

Open Day Event! Saturday 12th October 2024 – By Appointment Only!

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𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍 𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓! 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞! 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟏𝟐𝐭𝐡 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 – 𝐁𝐲 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲!

Explore this spacious 5-bed, 3-bath detached family home located just a few hundred metres from Bishop Gilpin School and walking distance to Wimbledon Village & Town Centre. Set over three floors, it offers versatile living spaces and a secluded garden with a lovely patio. Off-street parking and no onward chain!

 Key Features:
5 Bedrooms

3 Bathrooms

Kitchen/family room

Bright reception room with balcony

Secluded garden

Off-street parking

Close to Wimbledon Station.

For more on this property visit here

Don’t miss out, book your viewing appointment today on 020 8971 6780.

Looking to sell a property? We are a proud member of The Guild of Property Professionals, a unique network of 800+ Independent Estate Agents across the UK – We can promote your property far and wide thanks to our nationwide (and international) connections. If you’d like to speak to a property expert, give us a call on 020 8971 6780 for a quick chat or visit our website here for complimentary appraisal of your property.

With the kids back to school, it’s time to focus on your next move

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With the kids settled back into school and the house quieter, now is the ideal time to focus on your next move. If you’re looking to settle into a new home by the festive season or to kick off 2025 with a fresh start, preparation is key. Here’s how you can get started now to ensure a smooth transition.

If you’re considering moving, renting, or buying, take some time to explore our available properties in Wimbledon, Wimbledon Village and the surrounding areas. For any questions that you may have regarding property contact us today. If you would like a free Valuation of your own property please visit our website here or call us on 020 8971 6780.

Here’s how you can take the steps now to ensure everything is perfectly in place for your next move:

Take advantage of the quiet

With the kids back in school and the house quieter, it’s an excellent time to focus on preparing for your move. This quieter period allows you to declutter, organise paperwork, and get your home ready to be viewed by potential buyers. Tasks like refreshing your decor, fixing minor repairs, and enhancing your garden can significantly impact the first impression of your property.

Additionally, scheduling viewings is easier when your home is less busy, allowing prospective buyers to explore your property without interruptions. Our expert team can help you arrange viewings at times that suit you and attract serious buyers looking to move before the festive season.

Get your home out there on the market

To make a successful move, your current property needs to be in front of the right audience. Putting your house on the market now will attract potential buyers who are eager to move before the end of the year. The housing market often remains active during autumn, with buyers looking to finalise their move before the festive season.

Our expert team offers years of experience in the Wimbledon property market, ensuring your home gets maximum exposure. We provide advice on pricing, staging, and marketing your property through the right channels, including professional photography and targeted advertising.

Plan for a fresh start in 2025

Moving home isn’t just about relocating; it’s about embracing new opportunities and a fresh start. Imagine beginning 2025 in your new home, with everything in place for a brand-new chapter. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating to a new area, a fresh start in the New Year is a great way to set a positive tone for the coming months.

By starting your preparations now, there’s still time to find your dream home and complete your move before the festive season or early in the New Year.

How we can help

We understand that moving can feel overwhelming, especially with the added pressure of the festive season coming up. That’s why our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive support every step of the way, from selling your current home to finding your perfect new property.

Our dedicated team provides personalised service, handling all the details so you can focus on enjoying your new home. Whether it’s coordinating viewings, managing negotiations, or handling paperwork, we’re committed to making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Ready to get started?

If you’re thinking of making a move in time for Christmas or starting 2025 in a new home, don’t wait. Now is the perfect time to take action and ensure everything falls into place smoothly. Get in touch with our experienced team today to arrange a consultation or book a valuation of your property here: https://andrew-scott-robertson.pro-val.propertylogic.net

Let us take care of the details so you can focus on your exciting new start!

Contact our expert Residential Sales team on 020 8971 6780 for any property related questions and see more about how we can help with your move here: https://www.as-r.co.uk/sales/why-choose-us/

We are a proud member of The Guild of Property Professionals, a unique network of 800+ Independent Estate Agents across the UK. We can promote your property far and wide thanks to our nationwide (and international) connections. If you’d like to speak to a property expert, give us a call on 020 8971 6780 for a quick chat or visit our website for a complimentary appraisal of your property: https://andrew-scott-robertson.pro-val.propertylogic.net

Open Day Event! Saturday 21st September 2024 – By Appointment Only!

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𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞! 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 – 𝐁𝐲 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲!

Explore this stunning period family home, beautifully presented and blending classic charm with modern living. Spanning four floors, this exceptional property features a bespoke kitchen with adjoining snug, an impressive principal bedroom suite with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, a large, bright sitting room with bay window, and an additional four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a study.

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬:
Stunning period house
Five bedrooms plus study
Superb principal bedroom suite
Three bathrooms (two en-suite)
Bespoke kitchen
Bi-fold doors leading to a secluded landscaped rear garden, with a large patio area perfect for alfresco dining
Elevated position with spectacular views across London
Excellent local schools nearby
Off street parking

Situated on one of Wimbledon’s most popular roads, this property is equidistant from Wimbledon Village and Wimbledon Town, with Wimbledon Park just a short walk away.

For more on this property visit here 

Don’t miss out, book your viewing appointment today on 020 8971 6780.

Looking to sell a property? We are a proud member of The Guild of Property Professionals, a unique network of 800+ Independent Estate Agents across the UK – We can promote your property far and wide thanks to our nationwide (and international) connections. If you’d like to speak to a property expert, give us a call on 020 8971 6780 for a quick chat or visit our website here for complimentary appraisal of your property.

Why hold an open house event to sell your home?

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Showcase your property…

An open house event with viewings by appointment only allows potential buyers to see your home in its best light, creating a lasting impression. With a single, well-prepared day, you can turn your home into a showpiece. Imagine welcoming visitors with fresh flowers on the table and a cosy, crackling fire. This attention to detail ensures that your home is presented at its absolute best, making it more likely to stand out above the rest.

Increase visibility…

Promoting an open house event generates excitement and interest. When potential buyers know there’s a specific date to view your property, it sparks their curiosity and makes them more likely to consider your home. This time-limited opportunity can create a sense of exclusivity, often resulting in multiple offers and the potential to increase the value of your property.

Convenience…

Scheduling multiple viewings in a single day streamlines the process, benefiting both you and potential buyers. By hosting your open house event on the weekend, you accommodate potential buyers who might otherwise struggle to find time during their busy workweek. This added convenience can lead to more visitors and, ultimately, more interested parties. A weekend viewing often allows potential buyers to take their time and experience your home without the rush of their work-related commitments. Additionally, if you’d rather not be present, it affords you the chance to enjoy a day out while we take care of showcasing your property.

Motivate buyers to view…

The limited viewing slots on a specific day can create a sense of urgency. Potential buyers are often motivated to make decisions quickly, knowing that others will also be viewing the property on the same day. This urgency can lead to more immediate and competitive offers. When buyers sense that they might lose the opportunity to purchase your home, they are more likely to act decisively.

Personal Interaction…

An open house event gives you the opportunity to be present where you can engage directly with potential buyers, answering questions and highlighting your home’s unique features. Your first-hand knowledge and passion for your home can play a significant role in making potential buyers see a future in your home. If you prefer not to be home, leave it to us and we can show off your homes USPs and provide your buyers with everything they need to know about your home and the area.

Ready to make the most of your property sale?

Contact us today to schedule your open house event and take the next step toward a successful sale! We will ensure that all viewings are strictly by appointment and only for buyers that we have fully registered.

Call us on 020 8971 6780 or pop in to meet the team here at andrew scott robertson, next to the iconic Dog & Fox in Wimbledon Village.

We are a proud member of The Guild of Property Professionals, a unique network of 800+ Independent Estate Agents across the UK – We can promote your property far and wide thanks to our nationwide (and international) connections. If you’d like to speak to a property expert, give us a call for a quick chat or click here for a complimentary appraisal of your property.

Introducing Robin Catlin: An experienced addition to our commercial division

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Robin Catlin has joined the commercial division of andrew scott robertson with over 40 years of expertise in the acquisition and disposal of offices, industrial, and distribution properties across the United Kingdom, Robin brings a wealth of experience to the specialised commercial property services offered by our team. For commercial property advice please contact Robin on +44 (0)20 8971 4999.

Prior to joining our commercial team, Robin successfully operated his own commercial property agency, establishing himself as a respected figure in the industry. Furthermore, his remarkable achievements led him to serve as the Chairman of the Industrial Agents Society, further highlighting his commitment and contributions to the field.

Robin’s decision to join us demonstrates his recognition of the company’s status as a leading commercial business, as well as his anticipation of the remarkable opportunities that lie within this vibrant area. Wimbledon and the Southwest London region has long been a hotbed for commercial ventures, and Robin’s in-depth knowledge of the area will undoubtedly strengthen our position as a premier provider of commercial property services.

With Robin’s arrival, we can expand our capabilities and deliver even greater value to clients seeking tailored solutions for their commercial property needs. His invaluable expertise, honed over four decades in the industry, will undoubtedly enrich our service offerings and enhance our reputation for excellence.

We warmly welcome Robin to andrew scott robertson and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead with his addition to our commercial division. We look forward to witnessing his continued success as part of our team, and we are confident that his presence will propel andrew scott robertson to new heights within the commercial property sector.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Robin as he embarks on this exciting new chapter of his career here at andrew scott robertson.

Can I extend the leasehold on my property?

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If you own a Wimbledon flat or apartment, chances are it is a leasehold property. Even if you have a good number of years left on your lease, it is worth understanding the process for extending your lease – known as leasehold enfranchisement. We look at when you might need to think about extending the lease on your flat, how you might go about it and a few other things you need to know besides.

Leasehold and freehold – the basics

There are two main types of homeownership in England; freehold and leasehold. Whether a home is on the market as freehold or leasehold is one of the first questions you should ask when viewing the property. Most London flats are sold as leasehold, but leasehold houses are sometimes on sale too.

When you buy the freehold, you are buying the property and the land on which it is built. Buying leasehold gives the purchaser the right to occupy the property for the number of years specified in the lease ? ?the term?.

 

Is it necessary for you to extend the lease on your property?

A key thing you need to check before viewing a property is the lease length – as lease terms can vary dramatically.

A flat?s original lease is likely to be for a long period, which far exceeds the number of years its first owner would live there. As properties get older, and pass between owners, the length of time remaining on a lease is reduced.

Ownership of a leasehold home will revert to the freeholder once the lease runs out so as the number of years left reduces, so does the value of the Leasehold property. Furthermore, as the term of the lease gets shorter, the premium payable for the extension of the lease increases. Most mortgage lenders will require a lease term to be as long as the mortgage term plus a further 50 to 75 years, so anyone buying a flat with a lease of fewer than 80 years remaining may find it harder to obtain a mortgage.

However, under the 1993 Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act, flat owners are entitled to a 90-year extension to their lease for a fair market price, as long as they have owned the property for at least two years. This means that you will pay a premium to obtain an additional 90 years to the existing term and the ground rent will be reduced to a peppercorn. If your lease has less than 90 years left to run, you really should think about extending it, not only in case you need to sell or re-mortgage but also because a lease term above 80 years does not attract marriage value. This is the increase in the value of the flat attributable to the fact the lease has been extended. This has to be shared equally between the parties.

 

What do I need to do if I want to extend the lease on my flat?

You should start by appointing a solicitor with experience of leasehold enfranchisement as well as a professional surveyor, who will give you a valuation for the cost of the lease extension (the premium).

You or your solicitor should then serve the freeholder with a Section 42 notice, Under the 1993 Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act, which informs the freeholder of your wish to be granted a lease extension and the amount you propose for the premium. You will need to specify when your landlord should respond to you with a counter-notice ? this must be no less than two months from the date you served the original notice.

You may be asked to pay a deposit of ?250, or 10% of the premium set out in the Section 42 notice if it is more. The landlord has a right to access your property to conduct their own valuation.

You will be liable to pay your own and your landlord?s legal and valuation fees.

The landlord must respond to you with a counter-notice, stating whether they accept your terms. You will then enter negotiations until terms are agreed by you both.

It isn?t necessary to take this legal route if you can negotiate terms with your landlord informally. However, it is still advisable to have an independent valuation and legal advice before agreeing to anything – to make sure you are receiving the most favourable terms possible.

 

How long is the process?

How long the process takes depends on lots of factors, including the speed of communication between you, your solicitor and your freeholder and the surveyors appointed by both parties but it can take a number of months.

 

Issues or disputes between freeholders and leaseholders

Disputes between the landlord and leaseholder can be referred to an independent body known as the First-Tier Tribunal.

 

Is it worth the costs of extending a lease?

Depending on the amount of time left on your current lease, leasehold enfranchisement can definitely be worth it. If you allow the length of time on your lease to drop below 80 years, the process becomes much more expensive because of the requirement to pay marriage value and the property may become hard to sell, if you need to, because of the difficulty of a buyer obtaining a mortgage on it.

 

Should I buy the freehold of my leasehold property?

If you live in a leasehold property, an alternative to extending a lease is to get together with your fellow leaseholders and buy the freehold. This is known as collective enfranchisement.

You will need to get at least 50% of leaseholders in your block to agree to participate for the collective enfranchisement to go ahead.

 

If you would like further information or advice about enfranchisement Andrew Scott Robertson have a specialist surveyor who is an expert in these matters and will be pleased to talk about the issues and advise you on your personal circumstances. Please contact us.

If you are looking to buy or sell property in Wimbledon, whether freehold or leasehold, Andrew Scott Robertson are local estate agents. We would be happy to discuss your requirements and show you our selection of properties. Please contact us today.

January house prices are 1.9% higher than a year ago

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January saw house prices across the UK up by 1.9% on the same time last year and up 1.4% on December, according to figures from the Nationwide Building Society.

The Nationwide, one of the UK?s leading lenders, said prices reached a 14-month high as the so-called ?Boris bounce? brought post-election confidence to the housing market.

In its report, the building society points to other signs of revival, including the highest increase in the number of mortgages approved by Britain?s high street banks in five years.

According to Robert Gardner, Nationwide?s chief economist: ?Healthy labour market conditions and low borrowing costs appear to be offsetting the drag from the uncertain economic outlook. January?s pickup comes after a whole year of annual house price gains below 1%.?

Meanwhile data from property portal Zoopla shows that annual house price growth in the UK?s 20 biggest cities has hit a two-year high, thanks to a surge in demand for properties. London saw 1.9% growth, the fastest since 2017.

Among the economists forecasting growth in house prices this year is Samuel Tombs, the chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, who said: ?Indicators of demand at the very start of the homebuying process are red-hot.

?We think the pickup in demand can be sustained this year by the continuation of low mortgage rates and solid wage growth, driving prices up by about 4%.?

The discrepancy in house prices between London and elsewhere has narrowed by 20% since the Brexit vote, according to research published by the Resolution Foundation.

Read more about this story in The Guardian.

24 High Street,
Wimbledon Village,
London SW19 5DX

Tel: +44 (0)20 8971 6780
Fax: +44 (0)20 8946 3683