Month: March 2024

Easter celebrations in Britain traditionally involve hot cross buns, bonnet parades and lots of chocolate.

 

But how do other countries celebrate this special occasion?

 

Let’s take a look at some of the different ways people around the world mark Easter.

 

Finland

 

While we typically associate witches with Halloween, it’s a very different story in Finland. Young children dress as witches at Easter and roam the streets carrying willow twigs decorated with shiny paper and coloured fabric.

 

They go from door to door seeking treats and, in return, offer blessings to ward off evil spirits.

 

Papua New Guinea

 

The Papua New Guineans have come up with a rather surprising alternative to the Easter egg hunt. Because chocolate doesn’t last long in the sweltering heat, people hide cigarettes in the trees outside local churches.

 

Following the Easter service, the congregants search out these hidden tobacco items instead.

 

Greece

 

You can expect to see an eye-catching bowl of red eggs served on Easter Sunday in Greek Orthodox households. The hard-boiled eggs are dyed a deep, crimson colour by mixing yellow onion skins (the dry outer layer you peel off and usually throw away) with boiling water and a dash of white vinegar.

 

The red shells represent the blood of Christ, while the egg symbolises rebirth. The cracking of the egg, which is done around the table, represents the opening of Jesus’s tomb.

 

Norway

 

The Scandis are known for their chill-you-to-the-bone crime dramas, often referred to as Nordic Noir. So, where did this fascination with dark tales originate? Perhaps it’s got something to do with the Norwegian tradition of Påskekrim, which means Easter crime.

 

It all started in 1923 with a front-page advert in a national newspaper for a book entitled ‘The Bergen Train Was Robbed in the Night’. Many readers were duped into thinking the incident was real, and the ensuing publicity meant the book was a hit.

 

Since then, canny publishers hoping to cash in have released new crime fiction to coincide with Påskekrim. In recent years, broadcasters have followed suit by airing new crime dramas for people to watch over their Easter break.

 

From all of us here at Chamberlains, we hope you have a happy and safe Easter break.

You can always tell when someone is really interested in buying your home by the number of questions they ask.

There are the usual suspects like:

• Where are the best schools?
• What are the neighbours like?
• Is it easy to park?
• And how much is council tax?

But it also pays to prepare for some unexpected questions.

In our experience, those less-asked questions highlight how interested a potential buyer is. It’s the opposite of a ‘tyre kickers’ approach.

Below are four questions to mull over.

Delving into the depths

Buyers may dig deeper than the surface, asking about the land’s history or even its geological stability. Did you know that an old well beneath your lawn or the prospect of flooding can raise eyebrows? Prepare yourself with local knowledge to ensure you’re not caught off balance.

Connectivity is key

The fibre-optic era has seen broadband speeds catapult into most homebuyers’ priority lists. Gone are the days when the number of fireplaces in a home was the deal-breaker – today, it’s all about megabits per second. Ask your wi-fi provider for details.

The energy factor

In a world where every watt counts, be ready to shed light on the facts about your home’s energy efficiency. Whether it’s the type of insulation you have or the eco-friendly solar panels you’ve installed, these details can make your home stand out and give you an edge over similar properties.

 

The secret life of gardens

And then there’s the question that often sees homeowners puzzled: “Which way does the garden face?” Sun-chasers and shade-seekers alike want to know about the light that bathes your garden. Whether it’s south-facing for all-day sun or north-facing for delicate plants, the orientation of your garden can, for some buyers, be a pivotal factor ahead of making an offer.

Are you thinking of selling this spring? Contact us today to have all your home-moving questions answered by our team of experts.

 

What’s the most common reason for landlords finding themselves in hot water and needing to make an insurance claim?

 

The answer, according to one insurance company* at least, is ‘escape of water’. This term covers everything from burst pipes and defective washing machines to leaky loos and dripping taps.

 

In a recent report, the firm revealed that 35.5% of all claims paid to landlords were related to water damage.

 

And while most claims totalled a few thousand pounds**, some were for much, much more. (Spare a thought for the landlord who had to claim £145,000 after a slow leak in the bathroom rotted the floor of the entire building.)

 

So, what can landlords do to reduce the risk of leaks, burst pipes and other water-related damage?

 

Here are some top tips.

• Encourage tenants to report problems as soon as they notice them so you can rectify them promptly.
• When carrying out inspections, don’t forget to check for leaks, including subtle signs such as marks appearing on the ceiling. Be particularly vigilant if you have an ageing property.
• Replace washers on dripping taps.
• Remember that when pipes freeze, they’re more prone to bursting. Cover pipes in outdoor areas and colder parts of your rental with lagging to prevent this.
• At the start of a tenancy, show your tenants where the stopcock and fuse box are located. If there’s a leak, they should turn the mains water off at the stopcock. Once they’ve done this, they should switch off the electricity supply.
• If you have an old water storage tank, insulate it with a ‘hot water jacket’.
• Keep gutters and drains clear of leaves and debris.
• Schedule your annual boiler service in your calendar so you don’t fall behind.
• If a tenant is going away on holiday, ask them to turn off the stopcock. In winter, suggest they programme the heating to come on each day to prevent the pipes from freezing.
• Ensure your landlord insurance is up to date.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help manage and protect your property, contact us at Chamberlains today.

 

* Source: Total Landlord insurance.

** The average burst pipes claim through Total Landlord insurance was £2,596 between 2019 and 2023.

Don’t have time to be a domestic god or goddess and give your home a full spring clean?

 

Well, why not do the next best thing and declutter a few key areas of your property.

 

Scientific studies have shown that clutter can negatively impact mental health and productivity.

 

So, by turfing out unwanted and unnecessary items, you’ll face spring with a greater sense of calm and focus.

 

Here’s a list of things you should purge from your property this spring.

 

In the kitchen

 

Raid the freezer and throw out anything that’s been there for more than a year – if you haven’t eaten it by now, it’s unlikely that you ever will, and it’s just taking up valuable space.

 

Also, go through your pantry and bin out-of-date items such as condiments and tinned food.

 

Cooking oils can also degrade over time, so if it’s a bit on the nose, it’s got to go.

 

Now it’s time to turn your attention to your Tupperware drawer. Any plastic containers that don’t have a lid should go in the recycling bin.

 

Bathroom

 

Dispose of out-of-date medicines and old cosmetics (which can cause skin and eye irritation). Also, check the expiry date on sunscreen products, which typically have a three-year shelf life. Expired sunscreen can increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

 

If you have a stash of hotel toiletries rolling around in the back of a drawer, ask yourself if you’ll ever use them. If the honest answer is no, give them to someone who will.

 

Bedroom

 

One of life’s mysteries is that socks always seem to vanish into thin air.

 

Where do they go? We don’t know. But it’s time to face facts and ditch that pile of single socks you’ve been holding onto in the vain hope that you’ll be able to make a pair someday soon. It’s not going to happen.

 

Other items to get rid of include unused coat hangers, underwear that’s seen better days (your lucky pants may have lost their magic) and knackered pillows that are as flat as pancakes (they’re probably harbouring dust mites).

 

From all of us here at Chamberlains, happy decluttering.

Selling your home is a significant life event, and the last thing you want is to be misled by the unscrupulous practices of a minority of estate agents.

These agents and their actions give the industry a bad name.

We’ve no time for them, and neither should you.

The good news is we’re about to shine a light on some of those practices so you can look out for them and act to avoid agents who use them.

 

Teignbridge homeowners deserve transparency and fairness when selling or buying a new home.

Here are some dodgy practices you need to be aware of to protect your interests.

 

Overvaluations: The high price of false hopes

Some agents might tempt you with inflated property valuations to secure your business. The risk? Your home languishes on the market, and you’re later pressured into selling at a lower price. Always seek a second opinion and choose an agent with a track record of accurate, market-reflective and evidence-based valuations.

 

Invented viewings and spurious offers: Your right to reality

Fake viewings and offers are not just unethical – they could deter genuine buyers and skew your perception of the market. Demand transparency from your agent and ask for documented feedback and evidence of offers.

 

Unfair contracts: Know where the exit is

Be VERY wary of long, restrictive contracts. They can tie you to an agent who isn’t acting in your best interests. Before signing, be crystal clear about the duration, your cancellation rights and any withdrawal penalties.

 

Preferred investors: Ensuring YOU get the best deal

Some unscrupulous agents have arrangements with ‘preferred investors’, which can mean you don’t get the best possible price for your home. The investor may get a quick deal, but you often get a much lower price. Insist that your agent markets your property widely to attract a range of potential buyers, ensuring competitive offers.

 

Your home, your choice

We believe selling your home should be a positive and profitable experience.

By staying informed and choosing an agent who values ethical practices, you safeguard your financial investment and the trust vital in any home seller-agent relationship.

When it comes to selling your home, please don’t settle for anything less than an ethical agent who answers how they address the points raised in this article.

 

If you have any questions, please contact us today – we’re here to help.

 

If you’ve just inherited a rental property, then you may be wondering what your options are.

 

While you won’t need to make any decisions on the spot (it usually takes many months to settle an estate), it’s good to start thinking about the issues you’ll have to address in time.

 

The first is what you intend to do with the property. Assuming you don’t want to move in yourself, your options are to:

• Continue to rent the property out. That way, you’ll earn a monthly income and have a long-term investment that you could later pass on to your family.
• Sell the property and use the funds to pay debts, invest or spend how you wish.

 

Let’s look at what each scenario involves.

 

Renting out an inherited property

 

It’s important to understand that there’s more to being a landlord than simply collecting monthly rent.

 

You must follow hundreds of rules and regulations and ensure your tenants have a safe place to live.

 

Don’t be intimidated by this. Many accidental landlords – that’s the term for people who become landlords through circumstance rather than design – go on to stay in the private rental sector long term.

 

But especially in the early days, they get a letting agent to manage their property instead of jumping in at the deep end and drowning in red tape. Having an experienced professional onside to help you learn the ropes can be a lifesaver.

 

A good letting agent will explain how to inform your tenants that you’re the new owner. (You can’t turn up onsite unannounced.)

 

They’ll also advise you about landlord insurance, maintenance and buy-to-let mortgages (if applicable).

 

Selling the property

 

If you choose to sell, you must decide whether to proceed with the tenants in situ or with the property as a vacant possession*.

 

There are pros and cons to each of these options.

 

Conducting viewings can be more complicated with tenants in the property. You need to notify them 24 hours in advance of a viewing, and they can refuse.

 

And some buyers prefer a vacant property so they can move in on day one without any restrictions.

 

However, a tenanted property can be an appealing prospect for a landlord looking to expand their portfolio, especially if the tenant is long-standing and reliable.

 

Also, it means you can proceed with the sale faster as you don’t have to navigate the eviction process.

 

Don’t rush your sale

 

You may be tempted to offload to a quick-buy company that offers to take the property off your hands with little fuss.

 

Be aware that if you go down this route, you’ll most likely get far less than you would by going with a traditional estate agent. While you may feel tired and emotional right now, you might regret short-changing yourself later.

 

Tax implications

 

Whether you opt to keep or sell the property, speak to a good accountant or financial adviser.

 

They’ll explain the inheritance and capital gains tax implications of your decision. And if you rent the property, they can also advise on the most tax-efficient strategies regarding income tax.

 

If you’ve just become an accidental landlord, contact us here at Chamberlains. We’re here to help.

 

 

*Note: You must follow strict procedures to evict the tenants; these rules also apply if you plan to move into the property yourself.

From 18 – 24 March, Food Waste Action Week is happening across the UK.

 

The initiative shines a spotlight on the issue of food wastage, urging the communities across Teignbridge and the UK to reflect on their food habits and make more sustainable choices.

With millions of tonnes of food thrown away annually in the UK, the need for change has never been more urgent. That’s not good for your pockets – or the planet.

 

Here are seven practical tips to help you contribute to a more sustainable future.

 

• Plan your meals: Start by planning your weekly meals. This simple step ensures you only buy what you need, reducing the likelihood of food going unused and eventually wasted.

 

• Understand food labels: Misinterpreting ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates is a common cause of food waste. Take time to learn what these labels mean, and you’ll find yourself throwing away less food.

 

• Smart storage: Correctly storing food can significantly extend its freshness. Research the best ways to store different types of food, and you might be surprised at how much longer your groceries last.

 

• Love your leftovers: Leftovers can be the basis for a new meal. Get creative in the kitchen and find ways to give yesterday’s dinner a delicious makeover.

 

• Portion control: Cooking or serving too much food is a common issue. Be mindful of portion sizes to ensure you’re only preparing what will be eaten.

 

• Compost food scraps: Instead of throwing food scraps in the bin, compost them. This not only reduces waste but also provides nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

 

• Get involved locally: Participate in community initiatives focused on reducing food waste. Whether it’s a composting workshop or seeking out talks on sustainable food practices, getting involved can amplify your impact.

 

By adopting just a couple of these tips, you can play a part in reducing food waste.

Remember, every small action counts towards a larger, collective impact – to quote that famous supermarket catchphrase, ‘Every little helps’.

 

For further resources, recipes and tips on reducing food waste, the website www.lovefoodhatewaste.com is an excellent place to start.

Thanks for reading.

Springtime in Teignbridge is not just when the natural world comes back to life but also when the local property market shakes off any winter blues.

And if you’re mulling over a move in 2024, the spring months between March and May could be the perfect time to sell your property.

 

Here are six speedy springtime tips.

 

Kerb appeal: First impressions count – especially in spring’s lighter, longer days. Boost your property’s kerb appeal with well-maintained gardens, a fresh coat of paint on fences and clear paths.

 

Spring clean: A thorough clean makes any property feel more homely. Clear away the clutter, wash the windows and let the fresh spring light and air flood your space. A spotless property suggests a well-cared-for home, encouraging buyers to imagine themselves living there.

 

Seasonal staging: Use spring’s colours to your advantage. Introduce some flowers, decorate with fresh, light-coloured linens and set out bowls of seasonal fruit to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

 

Pricing strategy: An attractive price point is critical in generating interest quickly. Think of the Goldilocks Principle: No one will want it if it’s too hot (overpriced), but if it’s too cold (too cheap), you’ll lose out, so you need to work with an honest, experienced estate agent to get the price ‘just right’.

 

Highlight outdoor spaces: After a long winter, buyers are eager to imagine enjoying their own outdoor space. Give your great outdoors some love by ensuring that any gardens, patios or balconies are clean, tidy and staged to highlight their potential as a personal oasis.

 

Choosing the best agent: Select an estate agent with a proven track record in the spring market. They should be knowledgeable about seasonal trends and skilled in making the most of your property’s springtime appeal. An effective agent will negotiate a great price on your behalf and guide you smoothly through the selling process.

 

By taking these steps, you can maximise your property’s appeal and increase the likelihood of a quick sale in the competitive spring market.

To find out how we’ve been helping Teignbridge homeowners sell successfully, contact us today.

There are five fundamentals to consider when thinking of buying a rental property.

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or taking your first step into the rental property market, make sure you understand what makes a place a good investment.

Here are five points to consider carefully:

 

• Location, location, location

The age-old mantra is as relevant as ever. A property’s location can significantly impact its desirability and, consequently, its value. Look for areas with strong growth potential, good infrastructure and accessibility to amenities like shops, good schools and public transport. Up-and-coming neighbourhoods or those in the regeneration process may offer particularly attractive opportunities.

 

• Rental yield and capital growth

A savvy investor knows the importance of balancing immediate returns with long-term gains. Rental yield – the annual rent collected as a percentage of the property’s purchase price – is a key metric for assessing an investment’s profitability. Equally important is capital growth, or the potential for the property’s value to increase over time. Researching historical price trends in the area can provide insights into future growth prospects. A good estate agent can help you with this.

 

• Property condition and maintenance

The state of the property can significantly influence your investment’s success. A well-maintained property can attract higher rents and more reliable tenants, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs and vacancies. Consider the property’s age, the condition of significant things like roofing and plumbing, and any immediate renovations required.

 

• Market demand and tenant appeal

Understanding the local rental market and what tenants in the area are looking for can help you choose a property that stays in high demand. Factors such as the property’s size, layout and features should align with the preferences of your target tenant demographic, whether they’re students, families or professionals. Again, this is an area of your research where an experienced local estate agent can be of massive value to you.

 

• Financial considerations beyond the purchase price

The initial cost is just the beginning. When calculating the overall investment, savvy investors factor in additional expenses such as tax, insurance, management fees and maintenance costs. Being mindful of these outgoings ensures you have a realistic expectation of your net return.

 

Property investment requires a considered, strategic approach informed by careful research and a clear understanding of your financial goals.

Working alongside trusted advisers like mortgage brokers and estate agents can improve your chances of success.

By focusing on these five fundamentals, you’re not just buying property but investing in a future of potential growth and income.

Get in touch with us today if you have any property investment questions.

 

*Disclaimer: The information in this article does not constitute legal or financial advice.

Property owners are being warned to be on their guard amid a rise in the number of green home improvement scams across the country.

 

Many local authorities and also Propertymark, the trade body for estate agents, have warned that people are being duped by rogue traders exploiting anxiety about high energy prices and confusion over green grants.

 

What to look out for

 

Often, a cold caller will ring or knock, offering exterior wall and roof coating products with the promise that they will cure damp problems and dramatically cut energy costs.

 

In reality, the ‘improvements’ guarantee no such thing and, in some cases, exacerbate damp issues, which are costly to rectify.

 

The work carried out may also be sub-standard, and the rogue trader may demand extra payments for work that wasn’t agreed upon.

 

The dodgy operator may also falsely claim to be working with the local council and that homeowners can later recoup costs through a green grant scheme.

 

Not everyone’s a bad guy

 

To be clear, there are many reliable and trustworthy tradespeople out there carrying out energy-efficient home improvements.

 

And in recent years, the government has announced several green grant schemes to decarbonise homes.

 

But you need to ensure the person looking for your business can deliver on their claims.

 

Do your homework and never take an operator’s claims at face value – no matter how slick or confident they are.

 

These rogue traders are brazen. For example, six fraudsters, jailed at Nottingham Crown Court last year for fraudulently selling wall and roof coatings, made £10 million and ripped off 62 people before getting caught.

 

Be on your guard – tips to stay safe

• Be wary of when someone contacts you out of the blue offering a ‘today only’ special deal.
• Never commit to work on the spot. If someone is pressuring you, alarm bells should ring. Take a cooling off period to ask family or building experts for advice about whether improvements are necessary and will add value to your home.
• Check a company’s online presence and read reviews to determine its legitimacy.
• If someone claims to work for the council, call the local authority yourself to verify the claim.
• Get written quotes from three different tradespeople before going ahead with improvements.
• Insist on a comprehensive list detailing the work to be done at your home.
• Never pay for all the work upfront. Pay in agreed stages and, if possible, use a credit card (this offers the best protection).
• If in doubt, trust your instincts.

 

From all of us here at Chamberlains, stay safe, and thanks for reading.