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10 ways to create space in your home

Article dated: Oct 17, 2024

10 ways to create space in your home

If you own a small property you’ll want to maximise the sense of space to increase its sales potential when looking to put it on the market. Here are ten top tips to consider.

...
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How to speed up your home sale

Article dated: Sep 23, 2024

How to speed up your home sale

House-selling can be a long-drawn-out process. It took an average of 59 days to...

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August 2024 property market report Solihull

Article dated: Sep 13, 2024

August 2024 property market report Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, the average price of property coming to the market for sale sees a seasonal drop of...

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What will the new government do for the private rental sector?

Article dated: Aug 13, 2024

What will the new government do for the private rental sector?

What the new government will do for the private rented sector remains, currently, a mostly unanswered question. 

Looking at the policies and plans announced in Labour’s...

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Will the election result boost the property market?

Article dated: Aug 6, 2024

Will the election result boost the property market?

The short answer to whether the election result will boost the property market is simple. Yes. 

That’s because the new Labour government has made housing a key policy in its...

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July 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: Aug 2, 2024

July 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, The average price of property coming to the market for sale drops 0.4% (-£1,617)...

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June 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: Jul 2, 2024

June 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, the average price of property coming to the market for sale drops by just £21...

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May 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: Jun 3, 2024

May 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, the average price of property coming to the market for sale rises by 0.8% this month...

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Stalled Sale? 5 tips to get moving

Article dated: Jun 26, 2024

Stalled Sale? 5 tips to get moving

You’ve found your next property and have buyers lined up. You are busy planning what you’ll do once you move, dreaming of that new kitchen or choosing paint colours for the lounge,...

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April 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: May 1, 2024

April 2024 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, average new seller asking prices rise by 1.1% this month (+£4,207) to...

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March 2024 property market report solihull

Article dated: Apr 5, 2024

March 2024 property market report solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, the average price of property coming to the market for sale rises by 1.5%...

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Maximising Your Home Sale in Spring: A Comprehensive Guide

Article dated: Mar 20, 2024

Maximising Your Home Sale in Spring: A Comprehensive Guide

Spring, with its longer days, budding flowers, and warmer weather, is often regarded as the prime time for selling a home. As nature renews itself, so too does the property market. If you're...

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Questions to ask when on a viewing

Article dated: Mar 19, 2024

Questions to ask when on a viewing

When on a property viewing, it's important to ask questions to gather as much information as possible to make an informed decision. Here are some questions you might consider asking:

...
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Moving Home Gift Ideas

Article dated: Mar 13, 2024

Moving Home Gift Ideas

Moving into a new home is a significant milestone, and thoughtful gifts can help make the transition smoother and more memorable. Here are some ideas:

Houseplant

A vibrant...

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Selling Your Home in the Rainy Season

Article dated: Mar 12, 2024

Selling Your Home in the Rainy Season

As the raindrops patter against your windows and the grey clouds dominate the sky, selling your home in the rainy season might seem like a daunting task. However, with the right approach, you...

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Maximising Space: Smart Solutions for Small Home Living

Article dated: Mar 11, 2024

Maximising Space: Smart Solutions for Small Home Living

Living in a small house comes with its own set of challenges, but with a bit of creativity and strategic planning, you can transform your compact space into a functional and stylish haven. In...

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How to sell a home fast

Article dated: Mar 7, 2024

How to sell a home fast

 

Selling a home quickly involves a combination of strategic planning, effective marketing, and presenting your property in the best possible light. Here are some tips to help you...

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February 2024 Property Market Report Solihull

Article dated: Mar 6, 2024

February 2024 Property Market Report Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, average new seller asking prices rise by 0.9% (+£3,091) this month to...

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The Probate Process

Article dated: Mar 6, 2024

The Probate Process

Probate is the legal process of administering the estate of a deceased person in the UK. The process involves obtaining the legal authority to deal with the deceased's assets, settle debts, and...

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December 2023 property market report Solihull

Article dated: Jan 10, 2024

December 2023 property market report Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, average new seller asking prices fall by 1.9% (-£6,966) this month to...

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November 2023 property market report Solihull

Article dated: Dec 21, 2023

November 2023 property market report Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, New seller asking prices drop by 1.7% (-£6,088) this month to £362,143....

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October 2023 Property Market Report Solihull

Article dated: Nov 2, 2023

October 2023 Property Market Report Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, new seller asking prices rise by 0.5% (+£1,950) this month to £368,231....

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September 2023 Property Market Report Solihull

Article dated: Oct 4, 2023

September 2023 Property Market Report Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, In a month of subdued housing market activity, the average asking price of newly...

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July 2023 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: Aug 4, 2023

July 2023 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, The average price of property coming to market drops by 0.2% (-£905) this month...

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June 2023 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: Jul 11, 2023

June 2023 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, Average new seller asking prices fall by £82 (-0.0%) this month to...

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May 2023 Property Market Report - Solihull

Article dated: Jun 6, 2023

May 2023 Property Market Report - Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, Average new seller asking prices jump by 1.8% (+£6,647) this month, compared...

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April 2023 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: May 3, 2023

April 2023 property market report for Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, New seller asking prices rise by just 0.2% (+£890) this month to £366,247,...

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Questions to ask your estate agent when buying a home

Article dated: May 2, 2023

Questions to ask your estate agent when buying a home

Make sure you ask the estate agent the right questions before deciding to buy a home. Estate agents are legally bound to tell the truth and it could make the difference between buying a dream...

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March 2023 property market update for Solihull

Article dated: Apr 16, 2023

March 2023 property market update for Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, The average price of property coming to the market rises by 0.8% (+2,906) this month...

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February 2023 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Mar 9, 2023

February 2023 property market report for Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, The average price of property coming to the market rises by just £14 this month...

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January 2023 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Feb 1, 2023

January 2023 property market report for Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, after two months of falls, the average price of property coming to the market for sale...

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How to make a house feel like a home.

Article dated: Jan 27, 2023

How to make a house feel like a home.

After moving into a new place, it is often difficult to shift your focus from the technicalities of the move to decorating and making your new space feel like home. That being said, when you...

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Selling your home with pets

Article dated: Jan 19, 2023

Selling your home with pets

Most property owners these days will have a pet of some kind. Even though you love them and they are dear to you, having a pet can somewhat upset your chances of selling your property if you...

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Selling your home in 2023

Article dated: Jan 18, 2023

Selling your home in 2023

New year, new adventures!

With the increase in utility bills and cost of living uncertainty, more people are thinking about their next move. The property market is still very robust with...

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How to child proof you home

Article dated: Jan 12, 2023

How to child proof you home

It won’t be long before your little one gets mobile and starts exploring, so you'll need to child proof your house or flat and create a safe environment before your baby can crawl or walk....

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Preparing for a mortgage application

Article dated: Jan 11, 2023

Preparing for a mortgage application

Applying for a mortgage is the first stage to buying your first or next home. Ensuring you have all paperwork and have filled in correctly can be the difference between having a mortgage granted...

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December 2022 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Jan 5, 2023

December 2022 property market report for Solihull

According to Rightmove House Price Index, the average asking price of newly listed property drops by 2.1% this month...

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How downsizing your home can lead to a more stress-free life

Article dated: Dec 9, 2022

How downsizing your home can lead to a more stress-free life

Living in a smaller home does not have to mean giving up the comforts and luxuries of your larger home. In fact, downsizing your home can actually be beneficial to your stress levels and to your...

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A beginners guide to gardening

Article dated: Dec 8, 2022

A beginners guide to gardening

Gardening can seem intimidating to beginners, especially when there are so many complicated and expensive tools and kits on the market. The truth of the matter is that you don’t need fancy...

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Bring your floor boards back to life

Article dated: Dec 6, 2022

Bring your floor boards back to life

With proper care and maintenance, it’s possible to bring your floorboards back to life after years of neglect! Here’s what you need to know about caring for old floorboards in your...

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Four easy ways to improve your home's kerb appeal

Article dated: Dec 5, 2022

Four easy ways to improve your home's kerb appeal

The front of your home is the first thing people see when they drive or walk by, so it’s important to make it look attractive and welcoming. With these simple tips, you can improve your...

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What is deposit unlock?

Article dated: Dec 3, 2022

What is deposit unlock?

Deposit Unlock is a new scheme to help first time buyers and home movers buy a new build home with a 5% deposit. Check out our guide to ensure it is the right option for you.

...
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November 2022 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Dec 2, 2022

November 2022 property market report for Solihull

The average price of newly-marketed homes dips by 1.1% this month (-£4,159) to £366,999. As is usual in November, sellers are pricing more competitively to try to find a buyer in the...

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Staging your home at Christmas time

Article dated: Nov 30, 2022

Staging your home at Christmas time

At a time of year when you’re keen to get the Christmas decorations out, it can be difficult to know just how much is too much when it comes to selling your property.

Below are...

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What brings down the value of a house?

Article dated: Nov 29, 2022

What brings down the value of a house?

If you’re looking to sell your home, of course you’ll want to achieve a sale price that matches your property’s valuation.

But whether or not you can achieve that could...

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Selling your home, should you do-it-yourself or use an estate agent?

Article dated: Nov 28, 2022

Selling your home, should you do-it-yourself or use an estate agent?

If you’re selling a property, you may be considering how you want to do it. How much help do you need, and what sort of support would that involve?

Using estate...

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Identifying cracks in walls. Are they serious or not?

Article dated: Nov 24, 2022

Identifying cracks in walls. Are they serious or not?

Whether you are buying an old build or a new build, houses are always moving which could be due to settling, which you find with all new homes, movements in the soil under the house, or changing...

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Why is Boxing Day the best day to list your property?

Article dated: Nov 23, 2022

Why is Boxing Day the best day to list your property?

Boxing Day sales do not just apply to the retail industry, it also applies to the property industry too. According to Rightmove, it is the most popular day of the year for buyers who are...

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How accurate is Zoopla's online instant valuation tool?

Article dated: Nov 16, 2022

How accurate is Zoopla's online instant valuation tool?

Zoopla’s free online valuation tool is most people’s first port of call when they are thinking of selling their home. However, Zoopla has been criticised for being misleading about...

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How to keep your home warm (and save money) this winter

Article dated: Nov 15, 2022

How to keep your home warm (and save money) this winter

The cost-of-living crisis has left many families worried about putting their central heating on at the risk of incurring extortionate charges with their suppliers.

Here are some tips on...

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How to break a property chain

Article dated: Nov 14, 2022

How to break a property chain

One main reason sellers are often hesitant to come to market is because they can’t find somewhere that they want to buy, but with record buyer demand there seems to be a lot of people...

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Pros and Cons of accompanied viewings

Article dated: Nov 11, 2022

Pros and Cons of accompanied viewings

What are the benefits of having an estate agent handle your property viewings? And are there any advantages to doing them yourself?

At HS Homes of Solihull, we do accompanied viewings...

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Sales Progression - what is it and what's involved?

Article dated: Nov 10, 2022

Sales Progression - what is it and what's involved?

Sales progression is an essential part of selling a property which begins with the offer being accepted and continues right through the legal proceedings until the exchange of contracts and...

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Should i rent or sell my home?

Article dated: Nov 9, 2022

Should i rent or sell my home?

It’s estimated that up to 30% of landlords are considered ‘accidental’ landlords, for example they end up letting their own home because they couldn’t sell it or...

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The effect of empty properties on local neighbourhoods

Article dated: Nov 8, 2022

The effect of empty properties on local neighbourhoods

If you live in England, the chances are that within a short distance of your home stands one of England’s 240,000 empty properties. Amazingly, this total, based on council tax payment...

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How will the UK interest rates affect you?

Article dated: Nov 7, 2022

How will the UK interest rates affect you?

House prices are predicted to fall in 2023, though by how much remains a subject of debate.

The Bank of England has hiked interest rates by 0.75 percentage points to 3% – the...

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Why do house sales fall through?

Article dated: Oct 30, 2022

Why do house sales fall through?

Selling a house is up there with one of the most stressful things you will ever do in your life. 

Home Selling Expert surveyed 305...

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How to value your home this winter

Article dated: Oct 29, 2022

How to value your home this winter

One of the most agonising decisions when selling your home is what price to put it on for. Marketing your home too high and you might not sell it, market it too low and you might get far less...

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October 2022 Property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Oct 28, 2022

October 2022 Property market report for Solihull

The average price of property coming to market rises by 0.9% (+£3,398) this month to a new record of £371,158, as shortages of property for sale continue to underpin prices. A new...

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Can I move into my new home by Christmas?

Article dated: Oct 27, 2022

Can I move into my new home by Christmas?

If you're in the process of buying a new home, and hoping to move in by Christmas, then check our top tips to help speed the process up.

Stay one step ahead

...
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Help to Buy ISA vs Lifetime ISA - can you transfer?

Article dated: Oct 21, 2022

Help to Buy ISA vs Lifetime ISA - can you transfer?

If you are a first-time buyer and you have a help to buy ISA, understanding the difference between the two and knowing whether to transfer or not.

Both Help to Buy and lifetime ISAs give...

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Why are mortgage rates so high and will they go down in 2023?

Article dated: Oct 20, 2022

Why are mortgage rates so high and will they go down in 2023?

The UK mortgage market continued to unravel following the double-whammy of the Bank of England’s half-point interest-rate hike and Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng’s...

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Cheap home improvements which will add value to your home

Article dated: Oct 19, 2022

Cheap home improvements which will add value to your home

Home renovations can be expensive, and some will increase property value, while others won't.

Whether selling a home or just wanting to improve it, maximising its value is often a...

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Sell your home before Christmas?

Article dated: Oct 18, 2022

Sell your home before Christmas?

If you want to sell your home before Christmas, there is still time – just. Research shows home-sellers need to have their property on the market by 23rd November if they want...

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What are warm spaces?

Article dated: Oct 17, 2022

What are warm spaces?

Warm Spaces are totally free to use and will provide a warm welcome to all.

Some venues will also offer hot drinks, activities and other services such as free wi-fi. Warm Spaces will be...

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How to save money on energy bills this autumn?

Article dated: Oct 6, 2022

How to save money on energy bills this autumn?

As an Energy Price Guarantee that means typical households will pay no more than £2,500 per year on energy bills for two years is announced, we explain what energy bills help is available...

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What is likely to happen to UK house prices in the next 12 months?

Article dated: Oct 5, 2022

What is likely to happen to UK house prices in the next 12 months?

UK house prices predicted to drop by at least 10% in 2023

As lenders pull mortgage products amid interest rate turmoil, experts forecast ‘significant fall’

The upward...

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September 2022 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Oct 4, 2022

September 2022 property market report for Solihull

The average price of property coming to market rises by 0.7% (+£2,587) this month to £367,760. This is in line with the average September rise of 0.6% over the last ten years.

...
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Why are so many banks withdrawing mortgage products?

Article dated: Oct 3, 2022

Why are so many banks withdrawing mortgage products?

Mortgage deals are disappearing, with lenders temporarily withdrawing their products due to ongoing economic uncertainty.

More than 900 mortgages were taken off the market between...

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When is the best time to sell your home?

Article dated: Sep 30, 2022

When is the best time to sell your home?

Property experts have analysed sales data, and over the years, seasonal trends have emerged in the average number of days it takes to sell a home.

If you are thinking of selling your...

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Autumn Staging Guide

Article dated: Sep 29, 2022

Autumn Staging Guide

Home staging is when a seller prepares his or her property for sale. It it about creating an experience for potential buyers so they are able to see themselves living in your home.

It...

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What is stamp duty and why do we pay it?

Article dated: Sep 28, 2022

What is stamp duty and why do we pay it?

Stamp duty must be paid by the buyer of any home in England that costs more than £250,000 — so what is this tax and where did it come from?

History of stamp...

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What are the benefits of buying a new build?

Article dated: Sep 27, 2022

What are the benefits of buying a new build?

Not everyone likes to buy a new build property. Some people prefer the character and charm of an older property. However, there are some fundamental positives of buying a new build which...

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What is a recession and how will it affect me?

Article dated: Sep 26, 2022

What is a recession and how will it affect me?

In normal times, a country's economy grows.

Its citizens, on average, become slightly richer as the value of the goods and services it produces - its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) -...

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Should I sell my home before I buy another?

Article dated: Sep 23, 2022

Should I sell my home before I buy another?

Most people sell their current home at the same time as buying a new one, forming a property chain. Selling before you buy another home has risks, but it can also have great advantages.

...
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Why live in Solihull?

Article dated: Sep 22, 2022

Why live in Solihull?

Solihull is a great location for many people and that is why it was voted best place to live in the UK in 2013. Yes I might be holding on to the past a little here but having lived in many...

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What is the help to buy, equity loan scheme?

Article dated: Sep 21, 2022

What is the help to buy, equity loan scheme?

Help to Buy: Equity Loan is a government scheme for first-time buyers. It provides a loan, called an equity loan, that you put towards the cost of buying a new build.

Help to Buy aims to...

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Step by step guide to buying a home

Article dated: Sep 20, 2022

Step by step guide to buying a home

Buying a house, particularly for the first time can be daunting. The decisions you make when buying a property could save you – or cost you - many thousands of pounds. Our step-by-step...

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Pros and cons of 2 and 5 year fixed rate mortgages

Article dated: Sep 19, 2022

Pros and cons of 2 and 5 year fixed rate mortgages

Fixed rate mortgage has its advantages and disadvantages, but how long do you fix in for?

Here are the pros and cons of both 2 and 5 year fixed rate mortgages.

2 year...

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The conveyancing process explained

Article dated: Sep 16, 2022

The conveyancing process explained

Whether you are selling or buying a home, it’s a good idea to know what is involved, and to understand how the Conveyancing process works. Our step by step guide below explains the...

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Will house prices crash in 2022

Article dated: Sep 15, 2022

Will house prices crash in 2022

The UK property market boom might soon be over as experts predict that the cost-of-living crisis and rising interest rates could cause a house price correction.

Currently the market is...

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Wardrobe de-cluttering tips

Article dated: Sep 14, 2022

Wardrobe de-cluttering tips

Tired of seeing those old, out-of-date clothes in your closet? Let this guide help you declutter your wardrobe and keep it organised. With these tips, you’ll be able to choose what outfits...

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Top tips for buying a property abroad

Article dated: Sep 13, 2022

Top tips for buying a property abroad

If you’re considering buying a property overseas, you’ll need to bear in mind that the legal system and steps to follow may be very different from those you have experienced in the...

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10 interior design tips for beginners

Article dated: Sep 12, 2022

10 interior design tips for beginners

Even though interior design isn’t an exact science, there are some basic rules that can help you create a beautiful home space. Whether you’re decorating your first apartment or...

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How to declutter your bedroom in under an hour

Article dated: Sep 8, 2022

How to declutter your bedroom in under an hour

A messy bedroom can have a significant impact on your daily life—and not in a good way. It’s hard to focus and relax when you don’t feel like you can walk into your room...

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How to save money when buying a new build

Article dated: Sep 7, 2022

How to save money when buying a new build

New build homes might not be for everyone, but those who do buy them love them and often overpay for the privilege of being the first ever owner. This blog looks at ways you can reduce the cost...

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What is happening with UK energy prices?

Article dated: Sep 6, 2022

What is happening with UK energy prices?

Energy bills will increase by a staggering 82% in October, and are set to continue rising through 2023.

Regulator Ofgem’s latest price cap comes into force from 1 October, hiking...

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August 2022 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Sep 5, 2022

August 2022 property market report for Solihull

The average price of property coming to market drops by 1.3% this month (-£4,795) to £365,173. This is the first price fall of the year, though traditionally prices do fall in...

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Selling you home at auction

Article dated: Sep 2, 2022

Selling you home at auction

Thinking of putting your home under the hammer? Selling your house at auction could help you shift it quickly. Let’s take a look at how auctions work, the pros and cons, and if it could be...

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How to declutter your garage?

Article dated: Sep 1, 2022

How to declutter your garage?

Garages are a useful storage space to keep your household organised, at least that’s how it’s supposed to be! Many of us end up piling our garages with junk so that there’s...

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What is going to happen to UK house prices

Article dated: Aug 27, 2022

What is going to happen to UK house prices

If you are planning to buy or sell a house, you will be interested to know what is likely to happen to house prices and whether now is a good time to sell or not.

Whether you already own...

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How to make an offer on a house in 2022

Article dated: Aug 25, 2022

How to make an offer on a house in 2022

You should spend some time considering your offer and the reasons why you’re making it before committing to the decision.

Remember, there are many ways to buy a house, so each...

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7 home buyer trends in 2022

Article dated: Aug 24, 2022

7 home buyer trends in 2022

On a recent survey by Zoopla where they spoke to more than 2,600 buyers to find out what their property buying preferences were. This uncovered 7 key trends.

Trend 1 –...

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What is gazundering and how to avoid it

Article dated: Aug 23, 2022

What is gazundering and how to avoid it

Whether you’re buying or selling a house, chances are you’ve heard of the term ‘gazumping’ at some stage. But have you heard of gazundering?

Gazundering is...

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Do-It-Yourself Shared Ownership Scheme for Solihull

Article dated: Aug 22, 2022

Do-It-Yourself Shared Ownership Scheme for Solihull

Do-It-Yourself Shared Ownership (DIYSO) is a part buy, part rent scheme designed to help people get on the housing ladder. It is very similar to other shared ownership schemes except for one key...

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Save money when buying a new build

Article dated: Aug 17, 2022

Save money when buying a new build

Buying something shiny and brand new usually costs a premium. But when it comes to our homes, new builds can save you cash in the long run. 

From deals to lower day-to-day running...

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What is a tracker mortgage?

Article dated: Aug 16, 2022

What is a tracker mortgage?

A tracker mortgage is a type of variable-rate mortgage. Its interest rate ‘tracks’ (i.e. moves in relation to) an external interest rate, e.g. the Bank of England Base Rate or the...

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How to add value to your home by upcycling

Article dated: Aug 12, 2022

How to add value to your home by upcycling

As house prices continue to soar throughout the UK, more and more homeowners are planning to sell and are beginning to decorate and renovate in order to get the maximum possible price for their...

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The benefits of a home buyers survey

Article dated: Aug 11, 2022

The benefits of a home buyers survey

Whether you’re buying your first home or moving up the property ladder, buying a new home is a significant investment, which means there’s a lot to think about before you sign on the...

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How to avoid being gazumped

Article dated: Aug 9, 2022

How to avoid being gazumped

Gazumping is when your accepted offer is trumped by another buyer. Here’s how to minimise the risk of it happening to you.

When are you likely to be...

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How to declutter your playroom

Article dated: Aug 8, 2022

How to declutter your playroom

When it comes to decluttering, the room that usually gets the most cluttered is the playroom (if you are fortunate to have one that is).

It’s scary how quickly toys pile up and how...

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What is equity release?

Article dated: Aug 5, 2022

What is equity release?

Equity release refers to a range of products letting you access the equity (cash) tied up in your home if you are older. You can take the money you release as a lump sum or, in several smaller...

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Tips on how to declutter your kitchen

Article dated: Aug 4, 2022

Tips on how to declutter your kitchen

Are your kitchen surfaces jam-packed with appliances?

Do you have thousands of mugs piled up?

Are your cupboards full of out of herbs and spices?

It doesn't have to be...

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July 2022 property market report for Solihull

Article dated: Aug 3, 2022

July 2022 property market report for Solihull

The average price of property coming to market sees a sixth consecutive record this month, rising by 0.4% (+£1,354) to £369,968. A continuing desire to move and low numbers of homes...

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Why do house sales fall through?

Article dated: Aug 2, 2022

Why do house sales fall through?

Whether you are buying or selling property, one thing everyone dreads is the thought of their property transaction falling through. At best, it’s inconvenient; at worst, it can be...

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How to make money from your home

Article dated: Jul 28, 2022

How to make money from your home

With interest rates rising and the cost of living soaring, many of us are finding that we don’t have as much disposable income as we used to.

The good news is that there are a...

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Improve your credit score before applying for a mortgage

Article dated: Jul 27, 2022

Improve your credit score before applying for a mortgage

When you apply for a mortgage, lenders will check your credit score. Your credit score gives lenders an indication of whether or not you’re reliable with repayments. A mortgage is a loan...

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Visit Shirley, Solihull, and find out about its heritage.

Article dated: Jul 26, 2022

Visit Shirley, Solihull, and find out about its heritage.

Did you know that Shirley, Solihull, has one of the oldest legal firms in the country? Or that the zombie film – ‘The Girl with All the Gifts’ - was filmed in Shirley?

...
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How to declutter your garden

Article dated: Jul 25, 2022

How to declutter your garden

If you’re fortunate enough to have a garden, it can be a fantastic addition to your home and even act as an extra living space during those short periods of decent weather we have here in...

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What to do before your moving day

Article dated: Jul 21, 2022

What to do before your moving day

Moving home brings with it many different tasks that need to be completed and as it gets nearer to your removal date it is easy to lose momentum, even for the most organised of people. Finding a...

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What is a gifted deposit?

Article dated: Jul 20, 2022

What is a gifted deposit?

It’s a sum of money given as a gift to a homebuyer to pay for some or all of the deposit on a property.

In most cases, it will be a close relative like the parents or grandparents...

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Mortgage Guarantee Scheme 2021-2022

Article dated: Jul 19, 2022

Mortgage Guarantee Scheme 2021-2022

This government backed Mortgage Guarantee scheme is designed to help buyers with a 5% deposit buy a home. Learn how the 95% mortgage guarantee works and how to find the lenders that offer...

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How to identify asbestos

Article dated: Jul 18, 2022

How to identify asbestos

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally in specific types of rock throughout the world. Due to its durability, fire-resistance, and relatively low cost, it has been used in the manufacture...

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Keep your home cool this summer

Article dated: Jul 16, 2022

Keep your home cool this summer

Whether you're working from home or trying to get a good night's sleep in the heat, here are our top tips for how to keep your house cool this summer.

Keep curtains closed...

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Moving House? Who do I tell?

Article dated: Jul 14, 2022

Moving House? Who do I tell?

Congratulations, you're moving house and it's time to spread the word! But who exactly do you need to tell?

It's not just your friends and family who need to know when you move. There's...

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How to choose the best removals company

Article dated: Jul 13, 2022

How to choose the best removals company

Unless you live in a small house or flat, it's always worth hiring a professional removals company to help you move. Although packing up and shifting your stuff may not sound that difficult,...

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What are open house events?

Article dated: Jul 12, 2022

What are open house events?

Hosting an open house is a brilliant way to create a buzz about your house sale and get plenty of potential buyers through the doors in one go. We look at all the advantages and disadvantages to...

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Understanding Capital Gains Tax

Article dated: Jul 11, 2022

Understanding Capital Gains Tax

Capital gains tax (CGT) is payable when you sell an asset that has increased in value since you bought it. The rate varies based on several factors, such as your income and size of gain. Capital...

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How to fast track a house move

Article dated: Jul 8, 2022

How to fast track a house move

For most people, moving house is an exciting time, and it’s only natural to want to fast track your house move and get into your new property as soon as possible. So it can be hugely...

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What do estate agents do?

Article dated: Jul 7, 2022

What do estate agents do?

The obvious answer to ‘what do estate agents do?’ is that they sell your house or to find you a new one to buy.

Of course, that’s just a generic description of their...

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How To Choose The Right Estate Agent

Article dated: Jul 6, 2022

How To Choose The Right Estate Agent

Finding the right estate agent can mean the difference between a stress-free and a stressful move, so investing a little time is well worth the effort. But where do you start if you’re...

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What is Stamp Duty?

Article dated: Jul 5, 2022

What is Stamp Duty?

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a government tax that is charged when you buy a property in England or Northern Ireland.

It is often transferred by your conveyancer when you exchange on...

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More about buy-to-let mortgages

Article dated: Jul 4, 2022

More about buy-to-let mortgages

Buy-to-let (BTL) mortgages are typically for landlords who want to buy property to rent it out. The rules around buy-to-let mortgages are similar to those around regular mortgages, but there are...

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More about mortgages

Article dated: Jul 1, 2022

More about mortgages

Most people looking to get on the property ladder will need to take out a mortgage to buy their home. Below is everything you need to know about the mortgage process.

A mortgage is a...

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Decluttering Tips

Article dated: Jun 30, 2022

Decluttering Tips

Owning fewer things can make living easier. Without clutter swamping you, you are more able to enjoy life with less stress.

The clutter can be a constant source of stress, making you...

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June 2022 Property Market Report for Solihull

Article dated: Jun 29, 2022

June 2022 Property Market Report for Solihull

Price of property coming to market hits a fifth consecutive record of £368,614, albeit only up by a modest 0.3% in the month (+£1,113), as...

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How to handle the stress of moving house

Article dated: Jun 28, 2022

How to handle the stress of moving house

We, as humans, have a hard time dealing with change, so it’s not a surprise that relocating to a new home can unnerve us. That upheaval is one reason why selling a house can be stressful....

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What is the probate process?

Article dated: Jun 27, 2022

What is the probate process?

Dealing with the death of a family member or close friend is always difficult for those involved; the last thing anyone wants to deal with when grieving is navigating complicated tax and legal...

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Things to consider when viewing a property

Article dated: Jun 24, 2022

Things to consider when viewing a property

Buying a new home is a huge expense and you often only get approximately 15 minutes to view a property to make sure everything is in order. We've put together a checklist of what you should look...

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Can I sell my home to pay for care?

Article dated: Jun 23, 2022

Can I sell my home to pay for care?

If you’re moving into a care home, you might be wondering whether you’ll need to sell your home to pay for your care. This is sometimes the best option, but other options could be...

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What will happen to the property market in 2022?

Article dated: Jun 22, 2022

What will happen to the property market in 2022?

It is almost impossible to predict what will happen in the future, however looking at the treds and statistics can often give you a good indication of what might happen.

According to...

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Why is my house not selling?

Article dated: Jun 21, 2022

Why is my house not selling?

If you’re struggling to sell your house, run through the checklist below to identify your problem areas. After following the simple steps to fix them, you’ll see why selling...

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Why property is a good investment

Article dated: Jun 20, 2022

Why property is a good investment

There are so many ways to make money and property is just one investment. Imagine having cash land in your bank account every month for the rest of your life, after having done the work just...

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Buying a home, what happens next?

Article dated: Jun 17, 2022

Buying a home, what happens next?

After weeks of countless viewings and scrolling property websites, your offer on your dream home has been accepted. Congratulations! But what happens next?

Whilst you might think that...

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Selling your home, what happens next?

Article dated: Jun 16, 2022

Selling your home, what happens next?

It’s a time for excitement and relief: you’ve received an offer on your house.

Although you’ve probably been waiting for this moment for some time, there’s still...

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Buying and Selling Property in 2022

Article dated: Jun 15, 2022

Buying and Selling Property in 2022

A turbulent 24 months for the property market has created opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.

For some, the buoyant market is resulting in competing bids and multiple offers...

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Understanding Inheritance Tax

Article dated: Jun 14, 2022

Understanding Inheritance Tax

If the value of your assets reaches anything above £325,000 (or over £650,000 for a married couple or a couple in a civil partnership), your estate will owe inheritance tax at 40%....

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How To Sell A House Quickly

Article dated: Jun 13, 2022

How To Sell A House Quickly

If you’ve ever wondered ‘how can I sell my house quickly?’, you’re in the right place. As a local estate agency, we at HS Homes of Solihull are positioned to offer...

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What Searches Do The Solicitors Do?

Article dated: Jun 10, 2022

What Searches Do The Solicitors Do?

When you instruct a solicitor to carry out the conveyancing process, they will need to conduct various searches before your property purchase can go through.

Solicitor searches are...

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Buying A Home Under The Hammer

Article dated: Jun 9, 2022

Buying A Home Under The Hammer

Auctions are a great way to avoid lengthy and uncertain buying procedures and bag yourself a bargain. We have put together our essential points to consider when buying a home under the...

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What Home Buying Schemes Are Available In 2022?

Article dated: Jun 8, 2022

What Home Buying Schemes Are Available In 2022?

There are a number of government home buying schemes available to help you get on the property ladder including Help to Buy, Shared Ownership and First Homes. The eligibility criteria has...

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Top Tips For A Renovation Success

Article dated: Jun 7, 2022

Top Tips For A Renovation Success

A renovation project can be a rewarding experience, but do not underestimate how challenging it will be.

Renovating a house can be complex and may be prone to unforeseen issues and...

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May Property Market Report For Solihull

Article dated: Jun 6, 2022

May Property Market Report For Solihull

The average price of property coming to market has hit a new record for the fourth consecutive month, rising to £367,501. This month’s increase of 2.1% (+£7,400) is the highest...

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What Is Shared Ownership?

Article dated: May 31, 2022

What Is Shared Ownership?

Let’s face it, getting on the property ladder isn’t getting any easier. Saving for a large deposit and getting accepted for a mortgage that’s enough to buy the home you...

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Saving For Your First Home

Article dated: May 27, 2022

Saving For Your First Home

Saving for a deposit is often the biggest challenge first time buyers face in getting on the ladder, especially when most lenders require a minimum 10% deposit.

Our guide helps you to...

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Property Valuation Versus Property Survey

Article dated: May 26, 2022

Property Valuation Versus Property Survey

If you’re buying a home, you’ll want to know it’s worth what you’re paying for it. And if you’re taking out a mortgage, your lender will want to know it’s...

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Freehold Versus Leasehold

Article dated: May 25, 2022

Freehold Versus Leasehold

Wondering what the difference is between a leasehold and a freehold? They are both types of ownership, but’s it’s important to understand the difference and how it affects buying,...

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What Is A Lifetime ISA?

Article dated: May 24, 2022

What Is A Lifetime ISA?

A Lifetime ISA is a type of savings account that was designed specifically for people aged 18-39 who are saving for their first home or retirement. Saving into a Lifetime ISA can give your money...

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Choosing The Right Conveyancer

Article dated: May 23, 2022

Choosing The Right Conveyancer

Moving home is stressful, however choosing the right conveyancer can be critical to ensure a smooth exchange.

We have created 5 top tips to help you choose the right conveyancer for...

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Moving Home Checklist

Article dated: May 20, 2022

Moving Home Checklist

Moving into a new home is not something we do every day, so you can’t be expected to remember everything without the right planning.

We have created this moving home checklist you...

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Home Survey Guide

Article dated: May 19, 2022

Home Survey Guide

When moving home, a home survey can be very useful. It offers many benefits, from saving you money to helping you make the right decision when buying your new home.

In this guide,...

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Estate Agency Jargon Buster

Article dated: May 18, 2022

Estate Agency Jargon Buster

If moving house wasn’t stressful enough, understanding all the added jargon that goes with the house buying and selling process can add unnecessary stress. Our handy guide details some...

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First Time Buyers Checklist

Article dated: May 17, 2022

First Time Buyers Checklist

If you are thinking of taking the plunge and buying property for the first time, here is a comprehensive checklist of all things you need know.

Buying your first home can be hard to know...

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How To Save Money On Household Bills

Article dated: May 16, 2022

How To Save Money On Household Bills

Despite the cost of household bills continuing to rise across the UK, cutting costs is easier than you think. And the average household can save hundreds of pounds each year by following these...

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Moving Home With Children

Article dated: May 13, 2022

Moving Home With Children

Moving to a new home is stressful, but it’s even more stressful on your children.

As adults we tend to focus on the practical problems whereas a child will focus on all the losses...

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Tips On How To Downsize Your Home

Article dated: May 12, 2022

Tips On How To Downsize Your Home

People downsize for many reasons, with the most common reason being when their kids leave home and they no longer need the bigger space.

We have created a guide to help you learn how to...

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April Property Market Report For Solihull

Article dated: May 11, 2022

April Property Market Report For Solihull

When you are buying and selling properties, understanding more about the local market place is crucial. 

Below is a round up the property market in Solihull in April.

...
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How To Negotiate A House Price

Article dated: Apr 26, 2022

How To Negotiate A House Price

A lot can hang on your house price negotiation strategy, especially if your heart is set on buying a certain property.

In over 70% of house purchases, the purchase price is negotiated at...

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3 Steps On How To Disguise An Awkward Shaped Garden

Article dated: Apr 6, 2022

3 Steps On How To Disguise An Awkward Shaped Garden

Not all gardens are the perfect square or rectangle, sometimes they are an awkward and odd shape. Don’t let that put you off though. There’s some really simple steps you can take to...

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How To Value Your Home

Article dated: Apr 5, 2022

How To Value Your Home

You’ve probably thought about selling your home at some point but not too sure what you could get for it in the current market. One thing that can help you determine whether your home is...

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How To Make A Small Room Look Big

Article dated: Apr 2, 2022

How To Make A Small Room Look Big

Small rooms are cozy and efficient, but can often feel cramped and difficult to keep organised. Luckily there are many ways to make a small room look bigger. Here are some clever small room...

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Problems With An Overvalued Home

Article dated: Mar 31, 2022

Problems With An Overvalued Home

If you want to sell your home as easily as possible, it is crucial to set a realistic asking price.

It’s only natural to hope for the highest price for your property, but it is...

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10 Steps To Selling Your Home

Article dated: Mar 22, 2022

10 Steps To Selling Your Home

In this guide you will understand the sales process from start to finish, along with some useful tips on how to accelerate that process whilst increasing the value of your property.

The...

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How To Be The Best Buyer

Article dated: Mar 21, 2022

How To Be The Best Buyer

Buying a house can be an exciting time, but it’s also stressful with so many decisions to make! And if you think buying in this market can be...

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How To Stage Your Home For A Successful Sale

Article dated: Mar 14, 2022

How To Stage Your Home For A Successful Sale

When it comes to preparing your home for the market, it’s important to consider all aspects of your property before you list it with an estate agent. One important aspect that many...

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