Sunday, 24 January 2010

“Mystery Tour”

As a buyer, it can sometimes it can be difficult to decide which properties are worth viewing, and which are not, simply from their on-line description. Perhaps you don’t have time to consider the particulars, or the choice of properties is simply overwhelming. So why not let us help you? Let us take you on a “Viewing Hour”

The Viewing Hour is designed to take into account your basic requirements in terms of accommodation, location and price. A telephone conversation with you in advance should give us a good idea of the type of property that would fit with your lifestyle your preferences. We than agree a mutually convenient time with you and take you in one of our company vehicles to view all of the available properties on our books that appear to match your requirements.

The Viewing Hour is designed to be a short, sharp, whistle-stop tour to give you a general overview of potentially suitable properties. You can always come back and revisit the most appealing ones later.

This initial viewing method generally saves considerable time as you will typically view around six properties in the same time that it would take you to view two. You’ll quickly become an expert in the local market, enabling you to spot good
value for money when you see it. You’ll also gain a really clear picture of how realistic your expectations are in relation to what’s on offer.

Importantly, during our time together, we get a good overview of your requirements in detail and are then able to fine-tune our understanding of your needs, meaning we are even more likely to be able to help you. For example, we can tell you about properties as soon as they become available (important, as the good homes go quickly!).

So if you are serious about buying, why not book your Viewing Hour now, by calling us on 023 92 602155? We guarantee you a magical mystery tour!

Wednesday, 6 January 2010

“Save Time by Helping your Estate Agent”

Buyers often waste an inordinate amount of time viewing property that is either too expensive or blatantly wrong in other critical ways.

Additionally, more than 30% of UK property-sales fall through due to buyer or seller suddenly changing their minds. Both these annoyances could be attributed to the agent not having gained a good understanding of buyer/sellers requirements, and/or not having earned the trust required to secure this understanding.

One way of overcoming this is for the seller to address a few fundamental issues prior to agreeing terms, which will help avoid false starts, additional expense and wasted time. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Ensure that you get your finances in order and know exactly how much you can borrow, with an “in principle” agreement from your lender.
2. Before viewing properties understand the difference between your preferred “wants” and absolute “needs”.
3. Locations can vary from one street to the next, and at different times of day. Consider school runs and pub times.
4. Do not make an offer on a property unless you are absolutely serious about making it your home. The seller’s expectations will be raised and you could damage your reputation as a genuine purchaser.
5. Don’t lie about your home. Be upfront about any defects or the reason for moving if you are to speed up the sale and reduce stress.
6. Don’t ignore the facts. If your home has been on the market for several months, it is likely to be overpriced. Promptly reposition it in the market before it goes stale.
7. If you’re unhappy with your agent – say so! Don’t be afraid to change agents, being careful to note any onerous contract terms, and don’t change more than once, or people with think it’s the property – not the agent!

Please feel free to call us on 023 92 602155 if you would like further advice on how to prepare your home for an efficient sale.