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Latest thoughts and articles from our team
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The Challenge of Being a First-time Buyer
First-time buyers do not have it easy. For many, getting that step onto the first rung of the property ladder is more of a massive leap. The cost of property has boomed in recent years. That’s why it’s essential to get professional advice. The building survey is there to help in the purchasing decision and can actually save you money by adding to your negotiating strength.
What is the Difference Between Leasehold and Freehold?
Whilst you may fall in love with a particular property and set your heart on buying it, there is one crucial legality that should not be overlooked – the terms on which you will own that property. In England there are two forms of home ownership – freehold and leasehold – and it makes all…
Has Brexit Affected the Property Market?
Whether you were for or against Brexit, 23rd June will go down as a day to remember.
Party Wall Agreements – What You Need to Know
Keeping on good terms with your neighbours is always a good thing – after all, you never know when you might need to ask a favour. And having a good relationship is always the best starting point if you are going to be having work done to your property. The purpose of the Party Wall…
How Much Would it Cost to Rebuild Your Property?
Do you know what it would cost to rebuild your property if it suffered serious damage? Chances are the answer is probably not. But increasingly home owners are expected to supply an accurate rebuild cost to insurance companies when taking out a buildings insurance policy. And this is where potential problems can arise. Imagine –…
Introducing Airocam, a piece of kit that enhances the Home-Approved service
Launched in 2015, Airocam is a very nifty pole camera system developed by our very own Matthew Brown! The biggest challenge for any surveyor is how to carry out a thorough property survey when roofs and chimneys can sometimes be very difficult to access and also the most costly areas in terms of repairs.
Why you shouldn’t rely on just a mortgage valuation
Buying a property brings with it an endless list of things to be done – even if the sale goes smoothly there is plenty of stress to be had. So it’s little wonder that opportunities to make life easier can be so attractive, even if it means paying a premium for a removals company to do all your packing!
It’s time to get out of The Smoke and commute instead
Do you work in London but struggle to afford to live there? Do you rent and despair of ever getting on the property ladder? It’s definitely getting harder to live in the capital.
Preparing Your House for Sale: how to make it a truly desirable property
So you’ve decided to move, have a valuation price and estate agent that you’re happy with, and you’re looking forward to viewings and that all important offer. But if you’re serious about making sure your property doesn’t linger on the market for too long and you want to achieve its full sale potential, you’ve still got a bit of work to do!