last updated 17/04/2024

Our brand new 3 bedroom show home at Earls Park, Gloucester is now available to view!

Having achieved an unprecedented number of sales at the new homes development at Earls Park, Gloucester,  Michael Tuck Land and New Homes are down to the last plot available in the current phase, with just one 3 bedroom Bohon available.

Richard Tuck, Director of Michael Tuck New Homes said:

“We’ve been really impressed by the huge demand from purchasers at Earls Park.  Matthew Homes build a traditional style house and we receive lots of  positive feedback about how open and quiet the new development is compared with others in the area.  The central public open space creates a real focal point for the new community and is within walking distance to Gloucester Quays along a stretch of canal.

What house types are available to reserve at Earls Park, Gloucester?

Please note that all of the images below are of similar house types and not of the specific plots that are currently available. 

External finishes may differ from those shown below. 

Bohon I – Three Bedroom Semi-Detached – £300,000 – LAST ONE REMAINING

‘The Bohon I’ is a 2 storey, 3 bedroom semi-detached property with 2 PARKING SPACES situated on the exclusive Earls Park development and walking distance to Gloucester Outlet Village based within Gloucester Docks. This superb family home comprises of a separate living room, a dining/kitchen room with soft close units, integrated washing machine/dryer, dishwasher and electric oven, gas hob & chimney hood. The first floor boasts a MASTER bedroom with en-suite along with two further bedroom and a family bathroom. Further benefits include gas central heating, 2 PARKING SPACES and NHBC warranty.

Clavering – Three Bedroom Terraced and Semi-Detached – from £285,000 – NOW AVAILABLE

Stunning three bedroom mid-terraced and semi-detached house with two parking spaces, electric car charger, garden shed, vinyl flooring to kitchen/utility/downstairs cloakroom, integrated kitchen appliances and utility room.

The Clavering is a 2 storey, 3 bedroom terraced property with 2 PARKING SPACES situated on the exclusive Earls Park development and walking distance to Gloucester Outlet Village based within Gloucester Docks. This superb family home comprises of a separate living room, a dining/kitchen room with soft close units, integrated washing machine, dishwasher and electric oven, gas hob & chimney hood, as well as a separate utility space. The first floor boasts a MASTER bedroom with en-suite along with two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Further benefits include gas central heating, 2 PARKING SPACES with electric car charging point and NHBC warranty.

Two bedroom Apartments – New Phase – REGISTERING INTEREST NOW!

BRAND NEW TWO bedroom apartments  at the Earls Park New Homes in Gloucester development. With an ALLOCATED PARKING SPACE the accommodation features an open plan kitchen/living area, two bedrooms, bathroom, en-suite shower, separate family bathroom and storage cupboards. Further benefits include gas fired central heating, UPVC double glazed windows, fitted kitchen including stainless steel oven, hob and extractor hood.

The Marshall – Four Bedroom Detached – £400,000 – ALL SOLD!

A beautifully designed 4 bedroom detached home with DETACHED GARAGE AND PARKING FOR 2 CARS, situated on the exclusive Earls Park development within walking distance, along a stretch of canal path, to Gloucester Outlet Village based within Gloucester Docks. Also with-in walking distance are 2 grammar schools and local amenities. Accommodation comprises kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, a large open plan living/dining room with 2 sets of French doors to the landscaped rear garden and downstairs cloakroom. Upstairs has a master bedroom with en-suite, 3 further bedrooms and family bathroom. Further benefits include gas central heating and NHBC Warranty.

Bohon III – Three Bedroom Mid-Terrace – £299,000 – ALL SOLD!

The Bohon III is a stunning three bedroom traditional terraced house with parking and a garage.  The accommodation comprises entrance hall and cloakroom, kitchen/dining room and living room with french doors to the south facing rear garden.  The kitchen has soft close units and fitted with integrated washing machine/dryer, dishwasher, electric oven, gas hob and chimney hood.  Three bedrooms and family bathroom on the first floor.

Mandeville – Three Bed End Terrace – £290,000 -ALL SOLD!

The Mandeville is a beautifully designed three bedroom traditional house boasting 991sqft of accommodation comprising entrance hall with cloakroom, kitchen/dining room and living room with french doors to the rear garden.  The first floor has the master bedroom with en-suite shower, 2 further bedrooms and family bathroom. Further benefits include gas central heating, VINYL FLOORING TO THE KITCHEN, NHBC Warranty and 2 parking spaces.

Percy – Four bedroom semi detached house – ALL SOLD!

The Percy is a fantastic 4 bedroom family home with an open plan kitchen/breakfast room with integrated appliances including a dishwasher, washer/dryer, electric oven, gas hob and extractor hood. A large open plan living/dining room with 2 sets of French doors to the rear garden. Upstairs has an en-suite to bedroom 1 and family bathroom. Further benefits include a SINGLE GARAGE & 2 PARKING SPACES, downstairs cloakroom and NHBC 10 year Warranty.

Bigod – Three bedroom townhouse – ALL SOLD!

The Bigod is a three bedroom town house with flexible living accommodation which is ideal from home working.  This family home comprises of a separate dining room, breakfast/kitchen with soft close units, integrated washing machine/dryer, dishwasher and electric oven, gas hob and chimney hood.  The first floor boasts a separate living area and master bedroom with en-suite.  The second floor boasts two further bedrooms and a family bathroom.

How do I find out more about Earls Park?

The sales office at Earls Park is open 7 days a week between 10am and 5pm.

Please feel free to contact Harriet or Linda on 01452 522595 to arrange an appointment or for a quick chat.

Alternatively Michael Tuck New Homes in Gloucester are the sole selling agent and can be contacted on 01452 726443 or email newhomes@michaeltuck.co.uk

New Homes Currently Available

All homeowners want to achieve the best price for their home when they come to sell, so it makes sense to consider ways to increase its appeal before its market debut. Whether you’re looking for fast, budget-friendly options or can afford to spend more, you’re probably wondering what to focus on. 

Here are 8 practical suggestions, along with the average percentage or amount of value increase based on recent industry data:

1. Add a well-built conservatory or sunroom (5%)
2. Update your kitchen or bathroom (10%) or consider more minor upgrades like replacing worktops or cabinet doors for a refreshed look
3. Upgrade to a new boiler or central heating system (up to £8,000)
4. Fix any damaged roofing to ensure structural integrity and insulation for a return on investment of up to 63%
5. Invest in smart and energy-efficient upgrades such as smart lighting, LED bulbs, eco-friendly appliances, double glazing, and improved insulation (20%)
6. Consider landscaping your garden and keep it well-maintained (20%)
7. Redecorate with neutral tones to freshen up the interior and appeal to a wider range of buyers, adding around £2,000 to the value
8. Install a garden office space (5-10%)

Of course, the figures above are just averages and will depend on many factors. Before starting any project, consider the cost versus potential return on investment. If you’d like more personalised advice on maximising your home’s value, contact us on 01452 612020

When you’re selling your property, it’s only natural to want to secure the best price you can. While it’s true that house values mainly come down to a property’s location, size, condition, and average local sale prices, you can influence it in numerous ways. 

But before you dive head-first into an expensive project, conduct some research to ensure you’re prioritising improvements that offer a decent return on investment. As a rule of thumb, adding space – by converting your loft or garage or installing a garden office – is a sensible way to boost your home’s value by up to £22-28K, according to the House Buyer Bureau (HBB).

Just avoid adding a low-quality conservatory; it can actually have the opposite effect on value. Making the wrong choices with décor can also put off buyers. According to M&S Bank, the top offenders are avocado sanitaryware, pebbledash and textured wallpaper, Artex ceilings, lino and patterned carpets. 

If increasing your living space isn’t an option, upgrading your kitchen or bathroom to reflect modern tastes and functionality can add around £15,813 and £7,475, respectively (HBB). Landscaping your garden could also be worth the investment, as could improving energy efficiency and brightening the exterior with fresh paintwork.

However, the easiest way to discover what appeals to local buyers is by contacting us on01452 612020. We can advise you on the current values in the area and what has worked for our sellers, as well as booking an in-person valuation.

If you haven’t rented a property before, or maybe it has been a while since you last moved, it may have crossed your mind what sort of questions are appropriate to ask the letting agent. We have put together some of the questions you should be asking either prior to viewing a property, or whilst you are looking around:

Bills and Utilities: 

Knowing which bills you’re responsible for is a big deal! It helps you budget for your monthly costs. Ask the letting agent to clarify this for you

Did you know you might be able to save money by switching energy suppliers? It’s worth checking with the agent to see if you have this option.

Looking to potentially lower your water bill? Ask if installing a water meter is an option for this property

Safety First! Make sure your safety is a priority. Inquire if there are carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms installed. – be aware, this is actually a legal requirement!

Help is Just a Call Away: Unexpected things can happen. Find out who your point of contact would be in case of emergencies or repairs.

Making it Your Own: Do you dream of adding a splash of color to the walls? Ask the agent about the policy on redecorating the property.

Fuzzy Friends Welcome? If your furry companion is part of the family, be sure to ask about the pet policy.

What Comes with the Place? Furnished listings can be handy, but it’s important to know exactly what furniture and appliances are included. Get clear details from the agent.

Keeping Things Warm & Cozy: The boiler is a key player in keeping you comfortable. Ask about the boiler’s age and if there’s proof of recent servicing.

Saving Money & Energy: A higher Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating means a more energy-efficient home, which translates to lower energy bills! Find out the EPC rating for this property.

Garden Guru or Leisure Lounge? Do you have a green thumb, or would you prefer to relax in a garden that’s already maintained? Ask about your responsibilities for the garden

Getting to Know the Neighborhood: Knowing your neighbors can make a big difference. See if the agent can share some insights about the neighborhood. We have some detailed area guides to assist you with finding all of the local amenities!

Parking Perks (or Potholes?): Having a designated parking spot is a plus! Ask about the parking situation, including permits and any restrictions.

Anything Else? This is your chance to uncover any hidden gems of information. Ask the agent if there’s anything else you should know about the property.

After diligently saving a deposit, you’re finally ready to purchase your first home, but you’ll need to secure a mortgage first – here’s a handy checklist to get you started.

Sort your credit score to access the best mortgage rates – use an online service  such as Experian for tailored advice about how to boost your credit factors.

Analyse your income and expenditure to understand how much you can afford  to pay each month.

Find out what you can borrow by using a reputable online mortgage calculator  that factors in your income, deposit size, interest rates, and the number of years  you have to pay off a mortgage.

Decide type and term length – weigh the pros and cons of setting your interest  rate for a fixed time (usually two or five years) or choosing a product that varies  depending on the Bank of England’s Base Rate. Also, consider the mortgage term  that makes the most sense for your monthly repayment budget.

Find a broker who specialises in mortgages to receive independent advice and  feedback on the best deals for your unique circumstances.

Make a provisional application , called a Mortgage in Principle, that shows how  much a provider would potentially lend you.

Ready to start searching for your first home? Contact us on 01452 612020 for a chat or browse our properties here today.

Before renting your property to a new tenant, it’s important to ensure it’s in good condition. Décor and furnishings can attract tenants while maintaining your home, so let’s explore a few quick tips.

Go neutral – opt for soft, light colours for walls and tiling. Satin finish paint is easier to clean, while acrylic and latex products improve durability.

Invest in decent flooring , such as high-quality carpets that will survive regular deep cleans and laminate or wooden flooring for heavily used areas such as living spaces and hallways.

Furnish thoughtfully – include the basics in each room if you’re letting a furnished property so it’s ready to move into. Students and home workers may also appreciate a dedicated office or study space.

Installing white goods such as an oven and hob, a fridge-freezer, and a washing machine will also make your rental an attractive prospect. Clear out any clutter or furniture that’s not included before the viewings begin.

If you’re looking for a tenant, contact us on 01452 612020 to see how we can help.

Over the next five years, landlords across the UK will have to invest in their rental properties to ensure they meet new energy-efficiency requirements. Those who fail to bring their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating to C or above could face heavy fines after the 2028 deadline. 

Although upgrading a property will inevitably cost money, it can pay off in terms of value as buyers and renters become increasingly budget and eco-conscious. It’s also likely that the new rules will cap spending to reduce the financial strain. 

However, some landlords are choosing to ‘wait and see’ what to prioritise based on whether the government announces its focus is lowering bills or reducing emissions. For example, replacing an old boiler may be enough if bills matter most, whereas investing in a heat pump could prove more effective in terms of carbon output. 

Although relying on gas-based options rather than electric may still be your best bet for increasing your EPC because they’re cheaper to run, landlords won’t be allowed to swap out gas boilers etc. from 2035, so a heat pump may prove a better long-term option.

Meanwhile, The Energy Savings Trust recommends improving your property’s insulation as a first step. Some energy providers will loan thermal cameras to help landlords identify problem areas, but loft insulation is often cited as a key area for improvement. 

To discuss more ways to increase the value of your rental, talk to our team on 01452 612020 today.

After a turbulent period, the Gloucester rental market appears to be finding its balance. While things are still lively, the intense frenzy of recent years seems to be settling down. Here’s a snapshot of the current situation:

More Choices for Renters:

• Good news for those seeking a new home! Property availability is increasing, with 7% more listings compared to last year. This means a wider selection and potentially less fierce competition to secure your ideal place.

Easing Rental Price Growth:

• While rents remain at record highs nationally, the rate of increase is slowing. In Gloucester, specific data isn’t available, but the national trend suggests a more manageable climb compared to previous years.

A Shift in the Balance:

• The imbalance between demand and supply is gradually stabilizing. In 2023, an average of 11 potential tenants inquired about each rental property. While still higher than pre-pandemic levels, it’s significantly lower than the peak of 14 enquiries per property.

What to Expect in 2024:

• Experts predict a calmer rental market for Gloucester in 2024. This means:
  • More properties available to rent
  • Less intense competition for rentals
  • Slower growth in rental prices (although some increase is still expected)

Remember, this is a general overview. Specific details about your experience may vary depending on factors like property type, location, and individual circumstances.

Stay tuned for further updates!

It’s important to love your home. Like any relationship, it shouldn’t be one-sided! The more love you show your home the more it will be reciprocated. Perhaps when you first laid eyes on your home it was love at first sight.

As time has gone on things have become more complicated. You have discovered more things that need attention and work. The thought of addressing these things can be exhausting when you are struggling to find the time in your busy life. You have even forgiven yourself for thinking of moving on! 

Or perhaps you are obsessed with your home, and you spend a lot of your time thinking about how you can improve it. You love the natural character of your property and have done so much already to improve it that you simply need some inspiration. 

The little things you can do  

Show your home you care by cleaning and keeping it in tip-top shape. A fresh coat of paint, new lamp shades, and some more collectables or accessories for the kitchen. Candles, flowers, plants, paintings, pictures and perhaps most importantly trying something new. To keep things fresh and vibrant take a departure from your norms. 

Try something different  

Have you ever painted your furniture? Try it – the kitchen table and chairs or sideboard. It’s on trend right now and the results can be room-altering. There is no such thing as right or wrong when it comes to interior design and decorating. It’s your home to make unmistakably yours. Restore furniture or find something a bit different, that tells the story of who you are. 

Are you thinking about selling your property soon? Here are 8 tips to fall in love and maximise its value :

First impressions count , so invest in landscaping, keep the lawn well-maintained, and add some colourful plants to enhance kerb appeal. A fresh coat of paint on the front door and trim can also make a significant difference.

Upgrade kitchens and bathrooms by installing modern appliances and fittings, updating countertops and tiling, or adding stylish splashbacks.

Improve energy efficiency by installing energy-efficient windows, adding insulation, and upgrading appliances to attract eco and budget-conscious buyers.

Fresh paint and flooring can do wonders for the interior. Neutral tones appeal to a broader audience, allowing potential buyers to envision themselves living in your home. 

Smart technology such as smart thermostats, lighting, security systems, and other connected devices appeal because they are convenient and efficient.

Maximise space by decluttering and organising, installing built-in storage solutions if necessary. 

Finish the basement or attic . By converting it into usable space, you can add valuable square footage that’ll serve as an additional selling point.

Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming major problems that can reduce how much your home is worth.

Remember that a combination of factors influences property values; these tips are just a starting point. To learn the best steps to take for your unique home, contact us today!

This simplified guide for England and Wales provides a basic overview. Specific situations might require further legal advice.

Dealing with an estate which involves a home or piece of land that need to be sold? Selling it involves probate. This guide explains the key steps and answers common questions.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of managing a deceased person’s estate. This includes valuing assets, paying taxes, debts, and distributing remaining assets (like houses) to beneficiaries, as per the will (if any).

Do I need probate to sell a house?

Generally, yes. Without a “grant of representation” (probate), you lack the legal authority to sell. However, there are exceptions:

• Joint ownership: If the deceased jointly owned the house with a surviving spouse or partner, they might not need probate to sell.
• Property trusts: If the house is held in a trust, the trustee may handle the sale without probate.

Selling a house during probate:

1. Value the estate: Determine the total value of all assets, including the house.
2. Pay inheritance tax (IHT): If due, settle the IHT before applying for probate.
3. Obtain the grant of representation: Apply for the grant after valuing the estate and paying any IHT. This confirms your authority to manage the estate, including selling the house.
4. Prepare the house for sale: Make minor repairs, decorate, etc., to enhance its value.
5. List the house: All of our valuation managers are expertly trained to market the property.
6. Accept an offer: Once you receive a suitable offer, you can accept it on behalf of the estate.
7. Exchange contracts: When both parties agree on the terms, contracts are exchanged, making the sale legally binding.
8. Complete the sale: Once all legal requirements are met, the sale can be finalized, and remaining funds distributed to beneficiaries.

Can I market the house before getting the grant?

Technically, yes, but with caveats:

• Executors: As executors, you can market the house before the grant, but buyers and agents must be informed it’s contingent on obtaining the grant. Delays or issues could lead to complications.

General recommendation:

• Seek legal advice: Consult a probate solicitor to navigate the legal intricacies and ensure smooth execution.

What will I be asked for when I list the property?

Before we can market the property for you, we will be required to see a copy of the will or other legal document confirming who the executors are.

All executors who are listed on the document will be required to provide photographic identification and address identification, as well as signing our Terms of Business. Only executors of the will are allowed to list a property, not beneficiaries of the will.

You will also need to gain as much information as possible regarding the property in order to complete the Property Information Questionnaire, as well as documentation for the solicitors once a sale has been agreed. Examples of useful information to know includes any structural changes to the property, restrictions/covenants and potential guarantees/warranties.

Need further help?

Contact our local branches today to receive further advice, or to book a free valuation of your probate property.

Living in a rental doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or health. One often-overlooked tool for creating a better indoor environment in any rented space is the humble dehumidifier. These nifty appliances can dramatically improve your well-being and protect the property from costly damage, making them a win-win for both tenants and landlords.

Here’s why dehumidifiers are a smart investment for any rental property:

Combating the Damp Menace:

• Conquering Condensation: Whether it’s steamy showers or drying laundry indoors, moisture builds up in any home. Unchecked, this excess humidity condenses on windows, walls, and furniture, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers extract this moisture, preventing those nasty growths and their associated health risks like allergies and respiratory problems.

• Tackling Damp Problems: Excessive dampness can be a bigger issue, indicating underlying structural problems or poor ventilation. While a dehumidifier won’t magically fix leaks or cracks, it can significantly control the moisture in the meantime, preventing further damage and making the space more comfortable until permanent repairs are done.

Boosting Comfort and Health:

• Breathing Easier: High humidity can make you feel sticky and uncomfortable, especially in summer. Dehumidifiers create a drier, airier environment, improving comfort and sleep quality. This is particularly beneficial for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, who can experience reduced symptoms in a drier atmosphere.

• Preserving Belongings: Mold and mildew aren’t just gross, they can also damage your belongings. From clothes and furniture to electronics and books, excess moisture can shorten lifespans and lead to costly replacements. Dehumidifiers act as a preventative shield, safeguarding your precious possessions.

Saving Money in the Long Run:

• Energy Efficiency: Dry air warms up faster, meaning your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain comfortable temperatures. This translates to lower energy bills, especially in colder months.

• Property Protection: Dampness can cause structural damage to walls, ceilings, and even floorboards. Left unchecked, these repairs can be costly. By preventing mold and mildew growth, dehumidifiers help maintain the property’s condition, saving landlords money on future repairs and potentially improving their rental value.

A Win for Everyone:

Dehumidifiers offer a unique advantage in rental situations. They benefit both tenants and landlords by creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment while protecting the property. Landlords can attract and retain happy tenants with this cost-effective investment, while tenants can enjoy improved well-being and peace of mind knowing their belongings and health are protected.

So, whether you’re a tenant looking to breathe easier or a landlord aiming for happy, long-term renters, consider adding a dehumidifier to your arsenal. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in creating a healthier, happier, and more sustainable rental experience for everyone.

Remember: It’s always best to discuss any concerns about dampness or mold with your landlord. They are responsible for ensuring the property meets minimum health and safety standards and can take appropriate action to address any underlying issues.

Mortgage expert Siobhan Holbrook and Sales Manager Chris Cope share their thoughts on the property market for 2024.

Director of Mortgage Light Ltd, Siobhan, says:

“Going into 2024, I am positive about the housing market. Last year we saw innovation within mortgage products, which means this year, for the person looking to buy, there is a large choice of mortgage products on the market to select from.

We now have more mortgage products available which range from lower deposits, assistance for clients with adverse credit, lenders lending more money, and also lenders that have changed their Visa criteria to be more inclusive.

It is exciting to see that lenders are offering more competitive rates than last year and they seem to be reducing down, so if you were thinking of buying, I would definitely obtain free advice to see if the option to buy is available for you and get yourself into a lovely new home this year!”

Chris Cope, Sales Manager at Matthew Homes says:

“I feel privileged to be offering beautiful new build homes with the added benefit that a new build house is more efficient to run and could save you money in the long run.

We can offer bespoke deals for our clients to make buying affordable, compounded with mortgage rates being reduced, I firmly believe it is a good time to buy! Potential purchasers just need to talk to the right people.

We have a selection of properties to offer our clients. Most of our schemes have show homes and we welcome anyone to come and view.”

Well there you have it! The professionals are predicting a good year for the housing market, so why not speak to a member of our team about how we can help you!

Attention buyers! We’re getting even more transparent!

The National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT) has released new rules requiring greater disclosure of property details. We at Michael Tuck Estate & Letting Agents, have been providing Buyer Information Packs for many years. Now, we’re going even further by expanding our online property descriptions with crucial information you need before stepping foot inside.

Why the change? NTSELAT wants you to make informed decisions. No more wasted journeys! Knowing important details upfront saves you time and helps you find the perfect fit.

What to expect:

• More in-depth descriptions: Key info like council tax, tenure, construction, energy efficiency, and potential limitations will be clearly displayed.
• Gradual rollout: We’re updating all listings step-by-step, so check back for continuous improvements.

Some of the items that we need to explore and display:

Council Tax / Domestic Rates
Asking price
Tenure
Property type
Property construction – if non-standard *
Number and types of room
Electricity supply – if non-standard *
Water supply – if non-standard *
Sewerage – if non-standard *
Heating
Broadband
Mobile signal/coverage
Parking
Building safety – if an issue *
Restrictions – if an issue *
Rights and easements – if an issue *
Flood risk – if an issue *
Coastal erosion risk – if an issue *
Planning permission locally – if an issue *
Accessibility/adaptations – if adapted *
Coalfield or mining area – if an issue *
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Have questions? We’re happy to help! Contact us anytime.

Some costs – such as surveys and solicitor’s fees – are unavoidable when selling your home. However, you can help reign in your budget by following the 10 tips below.

• Book ahead with your chosen removals company to secure a slot and a personal quote you can save towards.
• Reduce the number of boxes by thoroughly decluttering before packing.
• Sell off unwanted clothing, shoes, books and furniture to top up your finances while reducing the amount you’ll need to move
• Collect boxes in advance from packaging or second-hand to reduce expenditure, or rent them from your removals company.
• Utilise clothes, towels and blankets to limit the amount of bubble wrap and other packaging materials you need to buy.
• Pack delicate items with care to prevent having to repair or replace damaged belongings after the move.
• Clearly label your boxes so you don’t have to repurchase lost items
• Disassemble large pieces of furniture before the move unless your removal fee includes this service – otherwise, you could incur charges.
• Ensure you’re all packed and ready on the day so you don’t cause costly delays for your removals team.
• Remember to clean and fix any damage to your current home before you leave to prevent losing deposits or disputes with the new owners.

Ready to start 2024 off on the right foot? A smooth-running household will free up time and mental space to pursue your New Year’s resolutions, so why not tackle your home first with these top tips?

• Attend to outstanding maintenance jobs put off over the festive season, prioritising based on importance.
• Clear kitchen cupboards – ditch outdated food, use up half-eaten bags of pasta, and donate anything you won’t eat to your local food bank. Reorganise what’s left with a cupboard storage system.
• Buy storage boxes for keeping similar items (such as toys, clothing, toiletries and accessories) together for easy access.

• Keep shoes out of sight – place a shoe rack, crate or storage bench by external doors to avoid footwear and hats, gloves, and scarves taking over your entrances. Designate a spot for muddy boots.
• Keep post together by picking up a cheap letter rack so you can deal with letters and bills at a specific time.
• Sort your recycling – consider installing a concealed unit for your kitchen or outside to avoid wasting space.
• Prevent clothing clutter by adding a clothes ladder and a door-hanging laundry bag in each bedroom.

A well-organised, clutter-free home is also a great way to impress buyers. So, if you’re hoping to sell by spring, your efforts could really pay off. Contact us on the details below to take the next step.

January: Master Your Money, Not the Blues

January may not be synonymous with sunshine and rainbows, but it can be a month of financial empowerment. While the festive cheer fades and bills loom, let’s ditch the January blues and turn towards savvy money management.

Budgeting: Your Financial Superhero

Think of a budget as your financial superhero – it swoops in to shield you from overspending and debt. The Money Advice Service estimates 15% of us fly blind financially, which can be a recipe for trouble. But fear not! Budgeting doesn’t need to be a complex beast. Use their handy planner to get started, mapping out your essential expenses (rent, groceries, bills) and planning for extras (birthdays, unexpected costs).

Slashing Expenses: Every Penny Counts

Food can be a budget monster, but taming it is simpler than you think. Own-brand heroes and savvy planning (hello, shopping lists!) can work wonders. Bulk buying veggies for hearty stews and casseroles will keep your pockets and tummy happy, while resisting those checkout aisle temptations (no more impulse chocolate!) will ensure your willpower, not your wallet, melts away.

Sell Smart, Save Savvy

Turn clutter into cash! Online marketplaces like eBay are your friends, offering a convenient way to sell unwanted items and boost your January funds. Skip the summer boot fair stress and declutter from the comfort of your couch (early mornings can wait!).

Switch and Save: A Penny Pinching Power Move

January’s quiet social scene makes it the perfect time for a financial tune-up. Compare banks and energy providers – you might be surprised at the savings lurking out there. Take stock of those monthly subscriptions (TV, anyone?) and ruthlessly prune any that no longer spark joy (or savings). And the gym membership? Hold your horses! Getting fit doesn’t require a costly subscription – prioritize free workouts and avoid those checkout chocolate villains that sabotage your fitness goals.

Remember, January doesn’t have to be a financial nightmare. By embracing budgeting, slashing expenses smartly, and making savvy switches, you can turn this potentially gloomy month into a season of financial empowerment. So grab your budget superhero cape, embrace the “master, not the blues” mindset, and conquer your January finances with a smile!

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to factor in some self-care! A budget should leave room for the little things that bring you joy, whether it’s a good book, a cozy night in, or a walk in the park. Taking care of your well-being is an investment in your overall financial health too.

If you’re planning to move just in time for the warmer weather, now is the perfect time to prep your home for its market debut.

While you may be dreaming of spring, your viewers will still be feeling the chill, so create a warm atmosphere for them as soon as they step inside.

If you have a fireplace or wood burner, check it’s in working order and ready to be lit.  Also, remember to plug any gaps in windows and doors to prevent uncomfortable
draughty spots.