What’s the first thing that springs to mind when you hear the word ‘sun’? Whatever your answer is, we can pretty much guarantee it’s not the UK. And yet despite our less than charitable British weather, solar panels are becoming an increasingly hot topic. That’s because, even with a significant initial outlay, solar panels can help us to reduce the …

Think of the word “humidity” and your mind is most likely transported to far-away tropical lands filled with lush, dense rainforests. And yet this atmospheric phenomenon can commonly be found wreaking havoc in UK households all year round as well. High humidity in the home is caused by excess moisture in the air that’s unable to escape. Contributing factors include …

There are plenty of costs to consider when selling your home. Estate agent fees, solicitor fees, searches (land registry, local authority searches etc) and removal fees can all mount up. It will probably come as a relief, then, to learn that paying tax on the sale of your property isn’t an additional expenditure to factor in. Sellers can be subject …

Cellar renovations not only add extra space to your homes, they can add significant value to it while making the property more saleable. Converted basement space — whether done with practicality in mind or extravagance — amplifies the aesthetics or your property, which heightens the appeal for potential buyers in the future. Additional habitable floor space can potentially accommodate an …

Before parting with your ‘right to buy’ property, it’s a good idea to get your head around all the ins and outs of these transactions. Understanding the basic legalities and permutations of what’s involved can potentially stop the walls from caving in around you, metaphorically speaking. It really does pay to be clued up; knowing about the repayment of discounts, …

There’s no place like (a new) home but — you’ve probably already heard — it takes more than a quick click of the heels to get there. We’ve all dreamed of finding that perfect property, in the perfect place for what is, hopefully, the perfect price. There are just a few hurdles to get over and hoops to jump through …

The process of moving house is notoriously one of the most stressful life events a homeowner is ever likely to face.  That’s why it is vitally important to get the right estate agent for the job. It can sometimes feel like a glorified speed-dating experience, vetting each and every agent that steps foot through your door. But it’s worth taking …

Asbestos was once valued as an integral material in construction — but the sheer utterance of it now sends shivers down the spine of potential buyers and sellers. The once-popular fibrous product has gone from ‘hero to zero’ in the property world, owing to its now hazardous and dangerous reputation. Though some misconceptions and negative connotations might suggest otherwise, it …

Equity release is a way of unlocking money tied up in your house without having to move. Generally aimed at older homeowners, the money can be released as a lump sum, several smaller amounts or a combination of both. There are a number of reasons a person, or couple, may explore the option of an equity release.  They might want …

There’s a simple answer to the question: ‘Can I sell my house privately?’ And that is yes.  On the other hand — ‘Should you sell your house privately?’ That’s not quite as simple. Let us explain.    Why would a homeowner want to sell their property privately? A private house sale is one where you sell directly to the buyer, …