With fantastic views, minimal effort, and trendy, modern, and classical designs, apartments and flats are as appealing as ever when it comes to buying a place to live. So, it’s little wonder urban areas and remote locations are seeing healthy levels of interest in this convenient way of living.

Demand for one- and two-bedroom flats across the UK increased from 22% to 27% in the year to February 2023, while one- and two-bedroom flats for the same period in London accounted for 49% of demand.* There are a number of reasons for this.

 

Easy living
If you don’t want to be weighed down by a big mortgage or large monthly bills, flats are the way forward. Often located near good transport links, shops, and amenities, adding to a potentially great social life with bars, pubs, and other apartment owners on your doorstep, life can be easier and potentially more fun than living in other forms of property.

Low maintenance
It’s most likely you will not have a garden to worry about, and if you do, it could be maintained for you. Alternatively, you may enjoy a balcony as an outdoor space, in which case you can enjoy the novelty of good views and a different perspective on things. It’s easier to keep on top of cleaning with little or no maintenance involved.

Cost of living
As interest rates rise and the cost of energy soars, although right now some of these expenses are at last reducing, simply heating a flat often costs much less than even a modest terraced house. Decorating and revamping an apartment is most likely to be more affordable.

First steps and more
Typically the domain of first-time buyers or perhaps individuals who have chosen to retire, apartments are becoming increasingly popular with a broader demographic as they improve in size, quality, and location.

A great investment
The demand for flats and apartments is always high. If one day you wake up and decide you want to rent it out, you are guaranteed to get a good income without facing costly maintenance bills. And because of this rental and buyer demand for properties of this type represent a stable investment.

Energy-efficiency
Consuming less energy for heating and lighting thanks to good insulation and proximity to other buildings makes flats more energy efficient. And if they need updating to improve this, then those costs are also significantly less than for larger properties.

Downsizing
Many people are downsizing. Perhaps the family has flocked the nest. An increasing number of people choose to live life as an experience, want to spend more time and money travelling, have hobbies or work in many locations throughout the world, and don’t want to be tied down.

Outlook for the future
The UK property market is proving resilient and offers a huge diversity of architecture and property options for you to choose from and enjoy. Whether you buy a flat as a buy-to-let, as a private dwelling, or both. Demand is expected to grow solidly well into the future.

 

Looking for a house or an apartment? Browse our properties to find the one you want to buy.

 

Zoopla*

We discuss how a managed letting service improves the shared best interests of landlords and tenants.

 

As a landlord, you have an awesome future ahead of you, with the demand for rented accommodation growing ever stronger. But that’s no reason to rest on your laurels. The buy-to-let market is changing, and with that come new opportunities and threats. Using a letting agent to handle the entire process is a shrewd move. They will keep you on the right side of the law and help sustain your rental income while giving you more time to enjoy life. As a landlord, you will want to know how to keep your tenants happy and optimise your investment, so here are a few features many tenants are highly interested in.

Energy efficiency
Many renters have become increasingly cost-conscious, so good energy efficiency is a high priority. Modern, clean living that is kind to the environment and has cheaper energy bills with added character is a win for all concerned. Energy-efficient homes are in high demand and can often achieve a higher rental income than less energy-efficient homes. Little things like LED light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances all add to this.

A well-presented home
Good double or triple-glazed windows trap heat while stopping it from escaping. But they also look good and help to create a nice greeting upon entering the property. If a home looks good, it will feel good, and if it’s in good order, it will attract good tenants. A nicely decorated home that is not in need of repainting or regrouting is often better cared for by its tenant, so it’s in your interest to keep your property in good shape.

A good garden
Good gardens are in high demand, and gardens with good outdoor living spaces are becoming expected. Even if you are letting a smaller property with little scope for a garden, adding a nice outdoor area will increase its desirability. This means more revenue for you and an increased level of demand. This will also encourage a good landlord-tenant relationship, allowing you to benefit from the stability that comes with that.

Your property’s location
Different tenants will have different needs, and your property’s location will have many positive points about it. Whether that’s being within walking distance of a great pub, social scene, shops, or if you have a young family, a good school. Excellent transport links also play a big role. The proximity of your property to the motorway, train station, or airport is important. Whether located near the city centre or in an idyllic country setting, your property’s location is a feature of what makes it great.

Make the most of your property
Adding smart technology to the heating system or security system will make your tenants feel secure. Perhaps a well-maintained parking space makes your property a great place to live. Many tenants also appreciate good storage space, and an open-plan design can often help create space. And where you can’t do this, add some mirrors and good lighting to increase the feeling of space.

Support with convenience
A managed property service makes the entire process of renting, for landlords and tenants, a breeze. Tenants can enjoy a swift and seamless move with everything from references to deposits taken care of. Landlords have their property maintained while being connected to experts who will ensure your property is always compliant with good, reliable tenants in place.

Get in touch today for an expert rental valuation of your property.

Even with mortgage rates being a bit higher than in recent years, though not as high as years further in the past, buying your own home can often be cheaper than renting. But there are many reasons why homeownership is incredibly desirable.

A magical homely feeling
Owning your own home is a unique feeling that can’t be substituted by anything else. It starts when you get the keys and the first time you walk through the front door, and it remains with you every time you come home. It is a feeling that creates a flow of powerful emotions, such as safety, security, relaxation, happiness, and elation.

The desire for a great garden
There are many great homes to rent in the UK, and many landlords are happy for you to take care of the garden while others will maintain the grounds for you. However, if you are a passionate gardener or one of an increasing number who adores outdoor living areas, they are easier to create when you own your own home. Truly reaching your home’s potential takes a lot of investment in time and money. You want to be as free as possible to create your perfect outdoor haven without answering to anybody else.

Something to leave your loved ones
Working hard is a way of life for most people, and even if you are not married with a young family to care for, it’s nice to have something to show for all your hard work. You stand to gain from the equity you accumulate over time, even if the idea of leaving your home to loved ones or the charity of your choice does not motivate you. So, when it’s time to retire, start a business, travel the world, or invest in other properties, you accumulate the means to do so without even thinking about it.

Security
It is a reassuring feeling to know that you are in control of your destiny. You decide where you want to move, sell up, or buy a better property. And if you do have a family to care for, you are providing a place that they can call home for as long as they need it. Moving in the middle of a school year can be difficult for younger family members if your landlord decides to retire.

Monthly outgoings
Despite the recent fluctuations in interest rates, they have remained more stable in comparison to soaring rents. And with fixed-interest-rate mortgage deals for up to five years, you can plan your financial future more easily. This allows you to calculate your household budget for everything more easily, from food shopping and holidays to your savings.

Complete creative control 
Whether you want to rebuild motorbikes in your front living room, knock all the walls down to create an open-plan grand design, or add a conservatory, you can do so without seeking permission. The chances are that you will never want to do any of these things, but there is something fulfilling about knowing that you can, if you decide to do so.

Ascending the property ladder
There is typically more scope to ascend the property ladder if you own your own home. Your first home may need modernisation. This can rapidly add to your property’s value if you carry out the work yourself. Even if you don't, as long as you do not overspend, you will be in a good position to sell up and buy a better home.

Are you in the market for a better property? Contact us today.

 

In September this year, the number of buyers returning to the UK property market increased by 12% compared with August.* Whether you are wishing for snow this Christmas or a new home, the good news is that more buyers are returning to the UK property market. So, if you are thinking of moving, now is the time to start your search as more properties appear on the market.

The snowball effect creates more sellers
As more buyers get on the move, they bring with them a choice of interesting properties to the market. Many homeowners are downsizing as their families have flocked the nest. Some younger buyers, having stayed at home to save a deposit, have now moved out and bought their first properties. Finally, Mum and Dad have their chance to downsize or use some equity to buy a holiday home. This gives you the chance to find a property with a bit more room. More and more homes appear on the market as home movers exchange contracts.

Home movers are acclimatising to the new normal level of interest rates
Interest rates in the past have been far higher than those of today. And it’s no secret that in recent years we have been spoiled with super low rates. Buyers are now realising that rates today still represent a good deal. Affordability levels are still good. As home movers and households adjust and accept that their mortgage costs are a bit higher, many are choosing to carry on with their home moving plans.

Christmas home-moving flurry
Being in a new home in time for Christmas is a very appealing idea, and many movers are already well into their home-moving journey. More bedrooms for your growing family or a place for everyone to sit at the table in a larger dining room. A magical winter garden tastefully embellished for the holiday season or just because you finally create your vision of an awesome outdoor space. There are so many great reasons to move.

A better year
You may be moving because you want a better work-from-home space, or your motives are based on a new location for work or to live closer to your family. And getting it done in time to start the new year is arguably better than rushing around in time for Christmas. Starting the new year in a new property is like making a fresh start. And the impact the right home can have on your sensory and emotional well-being is extraordinary. Feeling like you are revitalised for all that the year brings in a happier home is a great way to live.

Navigating the property market
In a fragmented and increasingly complex property market, it’s vital that you find the right agent who truly understands your property’s market. Fluctuating prices and an air of insecurity are still in the minds of some homeowners, thanks to so many negative news stories that often overlook the positive aspects of today's market. The reality is that each home-moving story is unique. Agents' databases are filled with individuals who have a specific vision for where they want to live. Your home may be central to this. With an overall shortage of properties relative to high demand, pricing your property accurately has never been more critical.

Book your expert face-to-face valuation today.

The landlord-tenant relationship in the UK is often portrayed as strained in the media. Seen as one-sided often in favour of the landlord it’s sometimes justified. However, it’s always a few bad landlords who tarnish the reputation of many. The reality is that there are many great landlords letting beautiful properties, managed by reputable agents, who are changing the rental landscape for the better in the UK.