Month: March 2024

 

A great property deal can set you up for life and allow you to leave a legacy for your family.

 

But a bad deal or no deal (if you miss out on your dream home) will haunt you for years.

 

So, how can buyers and sellers ensure they come out on top in the property game?

 

 

Working with a great estate agent who understands the local market certainly helps – we’d go so far as to say it’s the most crucial factor.

 

But it’s also useful to understand the buying and selling process so that you can avoid common mistakes and know what to expect.

 

With this in mind, and to tie in with World Book Day on 7 March, here are five property books worth reading.

 

 

How to Buy Your First Home (and how to sell it too) by Phil Spencer

 

Phil is a national institution and has graced our TV screens in shows like Location, Location, Location for almost a quarter of a century. His book, aimed at property newcomers, is packed with advice about everything from finding the best mortgage to handling the negotiation process like a pro.

 

 

Buying a Home on a Budget for Dummies by Melanie Bien 

 

This no-nonsense guide covers mortgages, conveyancing and home-buying options such as shared ownership and right-to-buy. It also includes top tips for first-time buyers and advice on viewings.

 

 

Property Ladder: The Developer’s Bible by Sarah Beeny

 

If you fancy renovating a doer-upper and selling it on, this book will help you get started. It’s an oldie (first published 15 years ago) but a goodie. Beeny explains how to plan and cost projects to avoid nasty overspends and draws on the expertise of surveyors, lawyers and estate agents.

 

 

Secrets of Home Staging: The Essential Guide to Getting Higher Offers Faster by Karen Prince

 

Looking for clever hacks to present your property at its best? Then this book has the answers. As well as containing lots of glossy photos, it explains how to identify your key rooms and dodge common staging blunders.

 

 

Ask for More: 10 Questions to Negotiate Anything by Alexandra Carter

 

This book isn’t specifically about the property market but focuses on a central plank of any property deal: negotiating. It explains how the best dealmakers ask great questions to determine the motives and desires of the person they’re negotiating with. Given that, often, price isn’t the only deciding factor in a property sale – timing and emotional attachment also come into play – it’s a worthwhile read.

 

 

Want to buy or sell in Teignbridge? Contact us today at Chamberlains to talk through your property dreams. We can help them become a reality.

Maintaining a rental property in Teignbridge isn’t just about collecting rent; it’s about safeguarding your investment and keeping your tenants happy and safe.

That’s why regular property inspections are so crucial.

They help you spot potential issues before they become costly repairs and ensure your property remains a place people are proud to call their home.

 

Here’s the lowdown on the five key areas you need to focus on during your inspections:

 

• Structural integrity: Let’s talk about the ‘bones’ of your property. Look for any cracks in the walls and ceilings. Also, checking the roof for missing tiles or leaks is a smart move.

 

• Plumbing and electrical systems: No tenant wants the surprise of a cold shower or a flickering light. Give all your taps, toilets and pipes a once-over for leaks or signs of corrosion. Light fixtures and wiring must also be safe to prevent potential hazards – it’s the law.

 

• Heating and insulation: Ensure the boiler works efficiently and the radiators do their job. Proper insulation is key to keeping the heat in, the energy bills down and your tenants happy.

 

• Safety equipment: This is about more than ticking boxes – it’s about ensuring your tenants’ safety. Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and, if required, fire extinguishers need to be in top working order and up to date with the latest safety regulations.

 

• General wear and tear: A bit of damage is expected, but you’ll want to watch for anything that’s gone beyond ‘a bit’. Damaged fixtures, broken flooring and any changes made without your permission should be on your radar.

 

Remember, as a landlord, you must adhere to many rules and regulations that constantly change. These include several laws around property inspections.

The good news is we can help take that load off your mind and handle all inspections, tenant relations and property management for you.

 

By staying on top of these five essential checks, you’re not just keeping your property investment in pristine condition but also building a solid, respectful relationship with your tenants.

What’s not to love about that?

 

Thanks for reading. Contact us today to find out more about our property management services.

You’ve likely heard of Dry January, where a commitment to not drinking alcohol during the first month of the year is made.

You may be aware of Stoptober, a campaign that runs throughout October to get people to give up smoking.

But have you come across Dechox before?

 

Well, it’s a charitable endeavour traditionally throughout March where people pledge to give up chocolate for the month, all in the name of their chosen good cause.

It’s thought to have originally been started by the British Heart Foundation. The ‘challenge’ to give up cocoa-based sugary treats could be a lot harder than people think.

So, with that in mind, here are five tips that might help you.

 

• Find your why: Identify a strong personal reason for giving up chocolate, whether it’s health-related or for a charitable cause. A clear motivation can keep you focused and resilient against cravings.

 

• Discover alternatives: Explore healthy snacks that satisfy your sweet tooth without chocolate. Think fruit, nuts or yoghurt. These alternatives can curb cravings and offer nutritional benefits.

 

• Stay hydrated: Often, our bodies confuse thirst with hunger or cravings. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help reduce chocolate cravings and keep you hydrated.

 

• Get support: Share your challenge with friends or family. Having a support network can provide encouragement, tips and keep you accountable during challenging moments.

 

• Reward yourself: Set milestones and reward yourself for reaching them – but not with chocolate. Opt for non-food rewards like a movie night, a new book or a relaxing bath. Celebrating progress can boost your motivation to continue.

 

Good luck if you’re taking on the challenge, and thanks for reading.