In these difficult economic times, one way of introducing an income from your home, is to consider having a lodger. You can receive up to £4,250 a year, tax free (£2,125 if letting jointly), under the Government’s ‘Rent a Room Scheme’. The ‘Rent a Room Scheme’,...
The most important factor, in any family with young children, The Buyer’s ‘wish list’ before viewing properties, in their particular area, is good state schools. With the average cost of sending a child to a private school, at almost £13,200 a year, it has become more...
Question: How does one ensure that the garden is sunny, when house hunting? Answer: When deciding to buy a home, never forget to bring a compass with you to assess the amount and timing of sunlight in the garden, in case the sun is not shining...
Question: When there is a dispute with a neighbour, should a Vendor advise the Buyers, or say nothing? Answer: It is advisable to endeavour to resolve any neighbour disputes, whether it is in regard to the building of a brick boundary wall, fence repairs, or tree...
If you are looking at a simple way, of making your home more attractive to today’s buyer, consider a kitchen garden, as a selling feature, even for luxury homes and well-to-do families. With the rising cost of food, planting your own vegetables and fruit, not only...
When you buy a property, you need to know exactly what you are getting. It may have a number of problems that you do not notice, but a qualified member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), can help you to see potential costly...
Home owners, deciding to introduce a pet to the home, should not take the decision lightly. Pets can have a big impact on the fabric of the home and ultimately, the value, when you come to sell. It is easy to focus on the positive side...
Before you close the door, for the very last time, on the home that you have just sold, there are a number of points to consider. Using the philosophy, ‘treat others as you wish to be treated,’ is the best practice. Here are some tips...
Many buyers, when purchasing a home, become confused between the different types of surveys and searches. Here are some guidance points to consider. Searches are carried out by your solicitor, on your behalf and depending on the area. It may be necessary to have a number...
In America, most Vendors, before placing their house on the open market, instruct Interior Designers to completely redecorate and stage their home. In the UK, we do not go to this extreme, but as a Vendor, you could consider ‘staging’ your home, which will help to...