Lawsons Estate Agency Advent: Tips from the experts

12 Dec 2021  •  Last updated 28 Mar 2024  •  5 min read

If you’re following us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter (and if you’re not, why not?) then you’ll be enjoying a daily tip from our experts. From selling, letting out your property, buying or renting your home, we’ve got some great advice for you all (24 to be exact).

We may be Thetford estate and letting agents, but our expert tips are widespread. So, wherever you are, whether you are selling, buying, looking to rent out your property, or hoping to rent your home, we’ve got the advice and support you need.

  • Buy with an open mind: if your dream home has a long list of must-haves, you’re unlikely to buy any home. So, when viewing potentials, open up your mind to the possibilities, and you may surprise yourself (and your bank-balance).
  • First impressions are everything, so make sure when selling your property, it will appeal to potential buyers. Tidy-up your kerb appeal to make a lasting impression for the better.
  • Is your deposit in safe hands? As a tenant, your deposit acts as yours (and your landlord’s) safety net. For as long as you look after the property, you can receive your deposit back…unless your deposit has been entrusted with the wrong agent who has failed to protect your precious money in a Deposit Protection Scheme. #LetWithTheBest #LetWithLawsons
  • Have you done the maths? When you decide to let your property, make sure you’ve calculated your figures. You could use our helpful Yield calculator to give you an idea of the potential return on your investment.
  • Your home may be filled with sentimental items, but to a potential buyer that could act as clutter which is simply “getting in the way”. Remove what you need to allow for a viewing which showcases the best your property has to offer.
  • Even in a competitive market, don’t pay over the odds for a property. A guide price is there for a reason, and even in a low-stock market, you need to consider the price you’re willing to pay and how much a property is worth to avoid mortgage rejection and/or going into negative equity.
  • Switch energy to save money. Even when renting, you can still decide who you go with for your energy. So, if your current providers are now offering you the best deal – make sure you shop around.
  • Got an issue? Report it. More often than not, maintenance issues are quick fixes (as long as they’re reported straight away). If you leave it, the issue could become bigger, which could put both you and your landlord out of pocket.
  • Safety checks are not an option. If you’re renting out your property, you are legally required to carry out safety checks on your home include gas-safety, carbon monoxide etc. Regulations are regularly updated, so make sure your agent stays on-top of the latest rules.
  • Get the price right. When getting your home valued, never go with the first and only agent to value your home. Go for a minimum of three valuations to give you a good idea of what your property is worth.
  • Factor in possible renovations. When buying a home, especially an older property, there will inevitably be some improvements you need to make. So, make sure you factor in updates and improvements into your budget.
  • Agency marketing is important. When selecting an agent to sell your home, consider their marketing reach. From contact lists of potential buyers to local and online advertising – it’s your agent’s job to promote your property.
  • Lay out your expectations for the start. Letting your property is a big step, so it’s important you lay out your expectations in a tenancy agreement from the beginning for you, your tenants and your letting agency (if you’re using one) to adhere to.
  • Get a guarantor lined up. If you require a guarantor, make sure you have yours agreed and ready before searching for your rental property.
  • Do your research. If you’re buying a home in an area you don’t know, do your research. Join online forums to discuss the area, if you have children, research schools and local amenities. Visit the area for a significant time to get a proper feel.
  • Get a second opinion (or even a third). Buying a home is a big step, especially if it’s your first, so utilise the opinions of those around you, those who know you and the process, who will support you along the way.
  • Make your property investment feel homely. To you, it’s about investing in your future, investing in your property portfolio. But to your tenants it’s their home.
  • The power of a photo. A good photo is the difference between your property sold and your property still waiting for its first viewing. Invest in great photography, it will be worth it.
  • Flexibility is key. This is a great tip whether you’re a landlord, tenant, seller or buyer. Be flexible. If, as a landlord, you stipulate too many rules, you may be putting off your dream tenant.
  • Don’t judge a house by its cover. We can all judge a property by its photos (whether they’re great or not) but sometimes we can miss the potential of a great home and a great opportunity. Look beyond the old and worn carpets.
  • The time to fix it, is now. When selling your home, it will suddenly come under the spotlight. Which means if you’ve a wardrobe door that needs fixing, or unfinished skirting boards, the time to fix and complete your property jobs is now.
  • Be prepared for a detour. We all know buying a home isn’t a smooth process. Time delays, counter offers, falling through. It can all happen. Until the contracts have been signed, exchanged and completed, be prepared for a detour to your ideal route.
  • Do your references checks. Tenant referencing is a great way to vet your tenants, finding your ideal. Many agencies offer tenant referencing as part of the service, protecting you and your property investment.
  • Get insured. As a tenant, you won’t need building insurance, but make sure you take out content insurance to protect your possessions.
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