Month: November 2022

Remember, remember the 5th of November… when the sky lights up, the bangs and booms of fireworks disturb your TV time, and your poor pets are driven to distraction by noise and flashing lights.

Yes folks, it’s Bonfire Night and whilst we all enjoy oohing and ahhing at pretty fireworks, spare a thought for pet owners who have to work extra hard to keep their little (or large) loves calm.

Here’s our quick guide on keeping your pooches and other pets safe and sound during the festivities. 

Doggy den

Before the noisy night, create a safe space for your pups in the quietest part of your home. Set it up with their favourite toys and doggy bed. Throw in some treats and anything else they like, so they can retreat to the area if they feel frightened or the noise gets too much. (TIP: This is a great way to help dogs feel safe at other times, for example, if you’re out for an extended period or have many guests around.)

Keep them inside 

Swap your evening walk for an earlier stroll to avoid being outdoors when fireworks are being let off. Also, restrict their time in the garden so you can be sure they’re safe and don’t bolt when the noise and lights get too intense.

Turn up the sound 

Drown out external noises by filling your home with sounds your pets are already familiar with. Play some relaxing music or turn up EastEnders or Coronation Street to distract them from what’s going on outside.

Dark and cosy 

Close the curtains, bring down the blinds and keep the atmosphere as relaxed as possible. You might not be able to block out the noise, but you will be able to reduce the flashing lights, hopefully reducing animal stress levels.

Cat safety 

It’s hard to keep cats inside at the best of times, but on Bonfire Night, it’s imperative to encourage them to stay home. Create comfortable hiding places or put treats in strategic locations around the home, so they’re occupied and less likely to head out into the night.

Outdoor pets 

If you’ve got outdoor pets, slightly cover their cages or pens so they can still look out but sounds and lights are muffled. Consider moving your pet indoors, but if that’s not possible, provide extra bedding so they can burrow themselves away.

At Chamberlains, we hope you all enjoy Bonfire Night.

 

 

The economic events of recent months have prompted plenty of to-ing and fro-ing in the housing market.

While some buyers and sellers in South Devon have paused to consider their situations, others have put their foot on the gas to get deals swiftly across the line.

While this flurry of activity may be making headlines in national newspapers, it’s important to remember that property chain uncertainty is nothing new. Over the past few years, the average number of sales falling through before completion has hovered around the 30% mark.

Chains can come under pressure for various reasons, such as issues raised in the survey, one party having second thoughts or a change in circumstances (for example, divorce or bereavement).

The best strategy to keep your chain moving is to use an experienced agent (now is not the time to be taking the do-it-yourself route or relying on a chancer who is new to the game).

A good agent will have coaxed hundreds of chains over the line in good times and challenging ones. A good agent:

• Communicates with the right people to keep the sale moving forward. Given the current mood in the market, you must know where everyone stands. Radio silence is never a good thing.
• Thinks laterally and makes constructive suggestions to help overcome issues slowing down the transaction.
• Is a savvy negotiator.
• Doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations and is able to speak candidly.
• Has a back-up plan if things change.

Don’t panic

One of the most frustrating things about being part of a chain is that you’re relying on other people – over whom you have little influence – to get their act together.

The best way through is to focus on what is within your control. As well as choosing a good agent, it’s important to:

• Be organised. If you’re asked to provide information or paperwork, reply promptly.
• Have realistic expectations.
• Stay level-headed.