Welcome to another edition of ‘Rooftops’, which we’re sure you’ll enjoy. It’s full of interesting articles and some of our latest property listings. We hope that you might want to consider buying, selling or letting a property through us – but if not, at least you’ll know what we do and where to come to when a professional service is required.
We have just finished another very satisfactory 12 months in property sales, almost exactly on a par with the previous year. Much attention – virtually all! – has been centred on Brexit; But just to make extra sure that major decisions, both personal and commercial, are being delayed, we now have an election to consider as well. When that is settled and a deal done – or not – in or out – we expect a wave of transactions and a considerable ‘bounce’ in the market. In the meantime, whilst the number of houses coming to the market remains at an all-time low, sales are continuing. Prices have softened, but not to an appreciable degree, especially in comparison with London. As ever, a correctly priced house sells – and we need a lot more of them, please.
The new homes market remains particularly strong, doubtless as a consequence of the lack of second-hand stock. We are fortunate to be the agent of choice for many national and more local housebuilders, with a great many new homes sold in the past year. There is also a very active market in building plots and sites and our specialist advice in that area has reaped rich rewards for many clients.
Our lettings business continues to grow and grow and has just completed yet another very successful year and rents remain very strong. The lettings market remains a very popular area of investment for a wide range of clients. This is slightly surprising given the changes to taxation, tenancy applications and forthcoming changes in energy efficiency requirements for all let properties. Certainly, more and more landlords recognise the need for specialist management if they are not to fall foul of legislation. We have continued to invest in staff and specialist software but urgently require more and more homes to satisfy demand.
Have a peaceful prosperous and healthy 2020.
