Tag: market

Will Help Turn Tenants Into Buyers?

Posted on by colin_williams

The stamp duty holiday scheme has been of significant help to many people in the housing market, but not first-time buyers. Many FTBs have felt overlooked in the property market, but at their recent party conference, the Conservative Party have claimed they will usher in new assistance for first-time buyers.

Boris Johnson announced plans for a new scheme to help people arrange long-term fixed rate mortgages for up to 95% of their home’s value.

What help might be on offer?

Zoopla have classed the key points from the Prime Minister’s speech at the Conservative Party Conference as:

  • The Prime Minister has promised to increase the availability of mortgages for buyers with small deposits
  • The government believes it will enable an additional two million people to buy a property
  • Johnson said it would represent the biggest expansion of homeownership since the 1980s

Mark Hayward, Chief Executive of NAEA Propertymark, comments: “We welcome the Prime Minister’s comments today which shows a positive change in tone by promoting a generation of renters to become a generation of buyers. We encourage lenders to come on board and support this initiative to enable first time buyers to enter the property market by future proofing the financial burden many face. We want to see intent become action quickly so that first time buyers can make the most of the current stamp duty holiday and continue to stimulate the housing market.”

Industry experts have their say

Craig McKinlay, New Business Director at Kensington Mortgages, comments: “The ‘Generation Buy’ scheme will be, in effect, a replacement for Help to Buy. Only a few lenders are dipping in and out of the high LTV market at present with ‘flash sales’ due to sheer demand – so this should reassure some lenders to enter more permanently and support first-time buyers.”

Craig also said; “However, for others, the scheme could lead to further capacity issues for those being selective with their offering to manage demand. On the whole though, like the introduction of Help to Buy in 2013 helped boost confidence and ease lenders back into the small deposit market, we hope this scheme will do the same.”

James Forrester, Managing Director of Barrows and Forrester, comments: “Today’s (6th October) announcement will no doubt excite a nation of aspirational homebuyers who have already been sent into a frenzy over the prospect of paying no stamp duty. However, for Boris Johnson to claim this will help fix our broken housing market is not only laughable but quite frankly an insult to those who find themselves priced out of homeownership. The cause of the dire situation we find ourselves in is the Government’s sustained failure to build enough affordable housing year in, year out.”

James also said; “The inadequate supply of housing to meet demand is one of the driving factors that has caused house prices to spiral and to continue to mask this failure by further fuelling demand is irresponsible. Instead, their time would be better spent reallocating wrongly classified green belt land so it can be utilised for housing and preventing the big housebuilders from drip-feeding housing supply in order to keep their profits up.”

At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to support the Petersfield community as much as we can, and we know this is an extremely trying time. A lot of people are looking for support and guidance, and if you have any property or housing related questions, we are more than happy to assist you, so contact us today.

 

Manage Stress When Selling Your Home

Posted on by colin_williams

The stamp duty holiday has encouraged many buyers and vendors to be active in the market. The chance to save a considerable sum of money is enticing for many people, but it should be noted that moving home is a stressful and costly activity.

At Williams of Petersfield, we do everything we can to minimise the stress associated with moving house. We are pleased to say we have helped many local vendors in Petersfield make their next move.

Many buyers and vendors find moving stressful

A survey undertaken by Zoopla, which was answered by more than 2,600 buyers, suggests many buyers find the property purchase an emotional and stressful activity.

62% of respondents said they found previous property moves more stressful than they had expected.

One of the biggest challenges in moving home is the property chain. 18% of respondents said they lost or came close to losing their property purchase because of issues with the chain. Only 11% of respondents said the buying process, when involved with a chain, ran smoothly.

34% of respondents aimed to develop a personal connection with the buyers. This step was taken to enhance the chances of the move running smoothly.

Financial issues are problematic in property deals

Close to 40% of respondents said their most recent property move cost more than they had originally budgeted for. 29% of respondents cited additional costs which caused them difficulties during the move. Some of the additional costs listed were conveyancers and surveyors.

44% of respondents said unexpected costs added more than £500 to the cost of their house move. 30% of respondents said they paid more than an extra £1,000 when moving and 15% of house movers said they had to shell out over £1,500.

Staging your home is important

When it comes to vendors regret, 53% of homeowners said they believed they’d have sold their home for a higher price if they staged their home. However, 31% of respondents said they didn’t have the budget to afford to improve their home at this time.

The importance of staging property was reiterated by 84% of respondents who said this activity is worthwhile.

Decluttering your home is also vital, with 52% of respondents wishing they did more in preparation for their move. 28% of respondents said they were too nostalgic when getting ready to sell their home. 20% of respondents said the process took far too long, which is an indicator many vendors underestimate the level of work associated with moving home.

Tom Parker is the Consumer Spokesperson at Zoopla and he said; “Moving home is one of the biggest investments we will ever make so it’s only natural the process inspires a wide range of emotions. Finding that balance between head and heart can often be the most difficult, and this is where agents have a crucial role to play in supporting home movers in their property journey. Agents will have experienced this process hundreds of times so can help not only with finding the right property but also making the purchasing or selling experience as seamless as possible.”

At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to support the Petersfield community as much as we can, and we know this is an extremely trying time. A lot of people are looking for support and guidance, and if you have any property or housing related questions, we are more than happy to assist you, so contact us today.

What Is Driving Property Demand?

Posted on by colin_williams

If you are looking at the property market and wondering why there is so much activity and demand for homes, we are here to help you. While the UK is in a recession, there is a significant level of demand from buyers, and there is a greater number of vendors entering the marketplace.

At Williams of Petersfield, we are pleased to say we can help you understand the housing market. We have a considerable level of knowledge and expertise in the local area, and we work closely to ensure all our clients understand, and benefit, from what is happening in the national property market.

The housing market is currently buoyant

There has been considerable activity in the housing market since it re-opened. Some experts believe this is a temporary measure, but it has lasted until September, and there is no sign of slowdown.

The stamp duty holiday has changed the market

The stamp duty holiday, in place until 31st March 2021, provides buyers with the chance to save up to £15,000. This is a significant saving for many buyers.

Rightmove’s property expert Miles Shipside said: “This move will help to keep the nation and wider economy moving because keeping the current momentum going will help prevent destabilising falls in property prices as unemployment grows, and enable a quicker economic recovery. Lockdown prevented 175,000 would be sellers from coming to market so we hope this Stamp Duty holiday will provide the spur for those missing movers to come to market.”

We know that many people have questions about the market, and how they should progress next. If you are looking to sell your home, we can arrange a property valuation for you. We believe a property valuation is the ideal starting point for anyone looking to sell their home, and we are here to assist you connect with buyers, and make an informed decision.

Miles Shipside also said; “Home-movers will be grateful that the changes come into effect straight away so they don’t have to delay their plans, and what we could see now is people rushing to get a price agreed before some sellers put their prices up in the hope people will be able to pay more because of the tax savings.”

Some people wish to move before a second wave of the pandemic

There are fears about another wave and associated lockdown. If this was to happen, many people would prefer to be settled in their new home by this point. Therefore, a lot of people are looking to move home soon.

Jacqui Harley is the Head of Conveyancing at JMP Solicitors, and he said; “Whether you’re looking to get on the property ladder, move home, buy another property or add to your portfolio, now is a good time to get moving in the current climate as the housing market is particularly buoyant. We have compiled a list of top reasons to move now, to outline what is available in the current climate for those who act swiftly to make the most of this window of opportunity.”

At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to support the Petersfield community as much as we can, and we know this is an extremely trying time. A lot of people are looking for support and guidance, and if you have any property or housing related questions, we are more than happy to assist you, so contact us today.

Demand Is Sustained In Property Market

Posted on by colin_williams

The introduction of the stamp duty holiday has been welcomed by many people in the housing sector. There is no denying many people are considering making a move, because of the substantial saving on offer. With vendors encouraged by the number of buyers in the market, there is a great deal of activity in all aspects of the housing market.

This is something we have seen in and around Petersfield, and it is something we have noted nationally. If you are looking to sell your home in Petersfield, please get in touch. At Williams of Petersfield, we are pleased to say we have assisted many local homeowners connect with buyers.

A property valuation helps sell your home

One of the most important tasks in selling your home is arranging for a property valuation. As local agents, we are perfectly placed to ensure you connect with buyers and sell your home. If you need any guidance or assistance in selling your home, please get in touch with us today.

Information provided by the property group Andrews for July 2020 suggests:

  • Viewings rose by 29% compared to the previous months’ viewing figures
  • Physical viewings increased by 45% in comparison with the previous month
  • In July 2020, there was close to 6,000 viewings, which equates to around 200 viewings per day
  • In April 2020, the average was 20 viewings per day
  • There was a rise of 12% with respect to offers made and accepted by vendors in July 2020

David Westgate, is the Group Chief Executive at Andrews Property Group. David said; “What a difference four months makes. In April viewings and instructions across the industry fell off a cliff as the country was gripped by coronavirus and the Government asked us to stay at home. But the rebound has been swift as lockdown eased and the Chancellor’s stamp duty announcement at the start of July gave the market a timely boost.”

We can help local buyers and vendors

We know most of the focus has fallen on buyers, but the stamp duty holiday should be viewed as a positive factor for vendors too. If you need assistance in selling your Petersfield property, we are here to assist you.

David also said; “Buyers and sellers alike have shown renewed vigour in the past six weeks. With a lengthy window of opportunity to purchase before the stamp holiday comes to an end, we expect buyer activity to remain buoyant over the coming months. And we saw an immediate uplift in valuations and instructions since stamp duty was frozen, with sellers keen to take advantage of motivated buyers and more confidence to list thanks to stable house prices.”

While there will be many challenges to come in the housing market, we are here to help.

David Westgate also said; “It won’t be all plain sailing from here, but the Government has shown how important it sees a healthy and stable property market for the general wellbeing of the overall economy. And house prices have proven to be extremely resilient in the past when faced by strong economic headwinds, which suggests the market is well placed to cope with some potentially heavy bumps in the road ahead.”

At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to support the Petersfield community as much as we can, and we know this is an extremely trying time. A lot of people are looking for support and guidance, and if you have any property or housing related questions, we are more than happy to assist you, so contact us today.

Petersfield Delivers What Buyers Are Looking For In A Home

Posted on by colin_williams

At Williams of Petersfield, we care about the local area, and we believe Petersfield is an excellent destination to set up home. Our experience in the area means we know what is on offer, and we know how welcoming the local community is.

At times like these, community is essential, and we think buyers will love Petersfield life. If you are looking for a home in the area, get in touch and we will be happy to talk you through the benefits of Petersfield life.

If you are looking to sell your Petersfield home, what better agent can you choose than one that is passionate about the local area? We will help you connect with buyers, and this sells your home. If you would like to arrange a valuation, get in touch and we will ensure you enter the marketplace with the greatest confidence.

However, we know some people might think we are biased. This is why we are glad to know what other people think of Petersfield. The OneDome site is a good source to get an overview of a local area, and we are pleased to say they think a lot about Petersfield. With an overall score of 7.6 out of 10, it is fair to say the OneDome site recommends Petersfield, and we agree.

Education scores 10 out of 10

Education is one of the most important features for buyers to consider when looking at property. School places and the standard of schooling impacts demand and local prices. Therefore, a perfect score in this field is impressive, and it is easy to see why there is considerable support for Petersfield’s schools.

Petersfield Infant School, Herne Junior School, Churcher’s College and The Petersfield School are all cited as good schools within walking distance from the heart of Petersfield. If you would like to know more about how the standard of schools impacts demand for homes in Petersfield, please get in touch.

There is a lot to like in Petersfield

Other highlights from the Petersfield report card includes:

  • Grocery shopping receiving a score of nine out of ten
  • Lifestyle receiving a score of seven out of ten
  • People who like a quiet life will appreciate the mark of seven out of ten
  • Petersfield is recognised as a safe area and has received a score of seven out of ten in this area
  • Transport has been classed as a seven out of ten feature in Petersfield
  • Green space has been marked as six out of ten

With so many positive reviews, we think you’ll love what Petersfield has to offer. To find out more, please get in touch.

At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to support the Petersfield community as much as we can, and we know this is an extremely trying time. A lot of people are looking for support and guidance, and if you have any property or housing related questions, we are more than happy to assist you, so contact us today.

Petersfield – Stamp Duty Impact

Posted on by colin_williams

If you want to know the likely impact of the stamp duty cut for buyers, vendors and the Petersfield housing market in general, we are here to assist you. At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to provide a specialist service to local buyers and vendors.

We know these have been challenging times for the housing sector, but many people believe the stamp duty cut will spark life into the market. Even though there was an initial flurry of activity when the market re-opened, there have been concerns as to whether this demand can be sustained. The introduction of the stamp duty cut will hopefully keep momentum going in the market.

Stamp duty cut and its impact on Petersfield property demand

On Wednesday 8th July, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, has announced an increase in the stamp duty threshold in the Summer Update. The key points of the stamp duty changes are:

  • Stamp duty threshold is now £500,000
  • This increase in stamp duty threshold is set to run until 31st March 2021
  • The increase in stamp duty threshold takes place immediately

While the deadline of March next year seems a lengthy one, be wary not to dwell too long on your decision. Sometimes property deals can become protracted, and no buyer wants to miss out on savings when it wasn’t their fault. We are more than happy to talk you through the process if it helps you form an opinion on what you should do next.

Impact on the Petersfield housing market

According to Zoopla, as of July 2020, the average price paid for property in Petersfield was £487,817. This is below the stamp duty holiday threshold, which means all property purchases at the average price in this area will not incur a stamp duty charge for buyers.

The following table details the average price paid for property in Petersfield, as per property type:

  • Average price paid for flats in Petersfield: £244,378
  • Average price paid for terraced properties in Petersfield: £342,527
  • Average price paid for semi-detached properties in Petersfield: £440,118
  • Average price paid for detached properties in Petersfield: £721,388

The average price paid for flats, terraced properties and semi-detached properties in Petersfield falls beneath the stamp duty holiday threshold. This means all of these property purchases will incur no stamp duty charge.

With respect to the average price paid for detached property in Petersfield, there is stamp duty to be paid. However, the charge of £11,069 is a lot more appealing than the previous stamp duty charge, which would have been 26,069.40. Anyone buying property at this price in Petersfield will enjoy a saving of £15,000 on stamp duty.

It is good to see buyers saving money when it comes to snapping up property, but it should be noted this will be of benefit to vendors too. When there are more people looking for houses, vendors can feel more confident when it comes to placing their home on the market.

Some industry sources believe as many as 100,000 additional properties will be sold in connection with the stamp duty cut.

At Williams of Petersfield, we aim to support the Petersfield community as much as we can, and we know this is an extremely trying time. A lot of people are looking for support and guidance, and if you have any property or housing related questions, we are more than happy to assist you, so contact us today.