Current Listings
Guide Price £485,000
3
2
7
£799,000
5
2
9
Guide Price £395,000
3
1
3
Guide Price £325,000
3
1
3
Guide Price £600,000
4
2
3
Guide Price £170,000
1
1
Guide Price £375,000
4
2
Guide Price £790,000
5
4
8
Guide Price £550,000
3
2
10
Guide Price £950,000
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4
8
Guide Price £1,650,000
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4
10
Guide Price £1,200,000
5
4
10
Guide Price £350,000
4
2
3
Guide Price £285,000
3
1
3
Guide Price £575,000
4
1
4
Guide Price £525,000
4
2
6
Guide Price £299,950
3
2
2
Guide Price £675,000
4
2
6
Guide Price £425,000
4
3
3
Guide Price £375,000
3
1
4
Guide Price £290,000
3
2
2
Guide Price £635,000
4
2
6
Guide Price £440,000
3
1
1
Guide Price £558,000
3
2
8
Guide Price £650,000
4
3
6
Guide Price £725,000
4
1
8
Guide Price £735,000
4
1
8
Guide Price £670,000
4
2
5
Guide Price £205,000
2
1
2
Guide Price £700,000
39.85 ac
Guide Price £1,150,000
5
3
10
Guide Price £570,000
3
2
5
Guide Price £275,000
3
2
Guide Price £425,000
4
2
4
Guide Price £475,000
3
1
3
Guide Price £220,000
2
2
3
Guide Price £950,000
5
3
8
Guide Price £230,000
3
1
Guide Price £387,000
4
2
3
Offers Over £700,000
4
2
5
Guide Price £365,000
4
1
3
Guide Price £500,000
3
2
2
Guide Price £900,000
5
4
6
Guide Price £299,950
3
2
2
Guide Price £425,000
4
2
3
Guide Price £170,000
1
1
1
Guide Price £750,000
6
1
5
Guide Price £343,000
4
2
4
Guide Price £420,000
4
2
3
£245,000
3
1
2
Bennet Samways Estate Agents
Bennet Samways are a truly personalised estate agency, providing a high-end experience in the world of estate agency. Bennet Samways is your trusted partner in finding, selling and securing the finest properties tailored to your unique desires and dreams.
About Us - At Bennet Samways, we redefine the estate agency experience. As a bespoke estate agency, we specialise in delivering exceptional service that goes beyond your expectations. Our mission is to expertly nurture, communicate and guide our clients through the selling, and buying process. We work hard to connect you with exclusive properties that match your lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations.
We take immense pride in being a licensed Propertymark estate agency. Our commitment to professionalism, transparency, and ethical practises sets us apart in the estate agency industry. As a licensed member of Propertymark, we adhere to the highest standards, ensuring that our clients receive expert guidance and the utmost confidence in their property transactions. Whether you’re buying, or selling, you can trust Bennet Samways to provide you with a superior level of service that is both dependable and dedicated. We understand the significance of your property decisions, and our affiliation with Propertymark underscores our unwavering dedication to delivering excellence in every aspect of your estate agency journey.
Bennet Samways was established in 2021 by Stuart Bennet and Nick Samways, with combined 35 years of estate agency experience. Winning the ‘British Property Award Gold Winner For Best Estate Agent In Ashbourne’ in both 2022, 2023 & 2024. We were also listed in the 'Best Estate Agent Guide' for Ashbourne 2024 & 2025.
Discover The Difference Today - Whether you’re selling a country cottage in Derbyshire, a discerning character home with land or a stylish home in Ashbourne, Bennet Samways is here to make your property dreams a reality.
Explore our exclusive listings, read our client testimonials, and get in touch with us to start your journey in selling your home and find the perfect property that reflects your unique style and taste.
Located at the prestigious office at Ednaston Park, between Ashbourne and Derby, adjacent to A52 with easy access, and free car parking for our clients on their appointment. Why not call Stuart, Nick or Katie on 01335 818550 and discover the difference…
Your extraordinary estate agency journey starts here…
THINKING OF SELLING? FREE VALUATIONS AVAILABLE
We provide EXPERT advice on achieving the best possible price for your home. We are pleased to offer FREE Valuations, and advice on maximising the saleability of your property, along with a ‘No Sale No Fee’ approach.
Latest Blog Posts
Dec 17, 2024
Home Working: 5 Budget-Friendly Home Office Ideas
Five budget-friendly tips to help you set up your home office Working from home is now a major part of people’s lives. For some, working from home has been the norm for many years, while for others the concept is still a little confusing. What’s important though is that your home office is somewhere you feel comfortable, can work competently and efficiently. Work has to be done, whether it’s in a purpose-built office or in a spare room. So, what should you be thinking about when setting up the perfect home office? Do you need to separate work life from home life? Do you need space to make calls, write, use the computer, analyse data? For most, both of these things will be important, so think about where your space is going to be. Is it a corner in the dining room or kitchen, or will it require the spare room, garden shed or integrated garage to be completely transformed? Once you’ve decided this, then you can look at what you’re going to do with the space. Make a list of what you need or want in your office space, and then prioritise the items. Refurbish and repurpose Setting up a home office doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Do you already have a desk or table in the garage that simply needs to be repainted? Do you have a few jars in the shed gathering dust and cobwebs? These could easily be washed and cleaned and used for pencils and pens and other stationery items. Make the most of what you already have to hand. Don’t get hung up on buying expensive prints Here’s an idea, instead of going to big chain stores and buying prints to hang on the wall, print out a favourite photo and buy a frame in which to put it. Not only is this a cheap way to furnish your office, it’s also more personal. Instead of spending a ton of cash on prints of New York skylines or forest glades, you could have an image of a favourite family holiday instead. These will look great and they will be inspirational too! Be thrifty If you think you need an office desk, or filing cabinet, then you could be thinking 'expensive'. But wait. There’s no need to hot-foot it to your local office furniture shop. Why buy new when you can find what you need simply by asking around? It might be that a local company has moved or scaled-down its office operations and is giving things away or getting rid of them cheaply. A friend or family member might have something you can make use of. Why spend a lot of money when you can find something cheaper or free? Keep an eye out on social media in particular and don’t be afraid to ask. Use blackboard paint Feeling creative? If you’re one of those people who needs to draw up creative ideas, or throw ideas on a mind map, then blackboard paint is for you. For just around £7 a tin, you can paint a blackboard area on part of a wall. You can then write on the wall with your creative ideas or formulae, and then simply wipe it clean afterwards. You will save on having to buy any equipment, and paper too, so you’re also doing your bit for the environment. Double the size with mirrors Working from home can often mean working in a smaller space than you’re used to, but have you thought about mirrors? A cleverly-sited floor-standing mirror will make your space immediately look bigger. Wall-mounted ones will also do the trick, as long as the frames are quite thin. It’s a trick that interior designers and retail outlets use so you should also make use of it. A floor-standing mirror from IKEA will cost from £50 upwards, and large frameless mirrors are only around £15 or £20. Designing and realising a home office is a personal thing, so get creative. Minimalist or packed with items, with a little thought, creating your home office doesn’t have to be an expensive project. If you're thinking of upsizing instead, and treating yourself to a property with a ready-made study, call our friendly team at Bennet Samways on 01335 818550 or email us at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk and we will be delighted to assist you. ...
Dec 17, 2024
What Are the Costs for Selling Your Home?
What Are the Costs for Selling Your Home Selling your home is a significant financial decision, and while you may be focused on achieving the best sale price, it's important to be aware of the costs involved in the process. From estate agent fees to legal expenses, various charges can add up quickly. To help you budget effectively, we’ve outlined the main costs you’ll encounter when selling your home in the UK. Estate Agent Fees Estate agent fees are typically the largest cost associated with selling your property. These fees can vary depending on the type of service and whether you choose a traditional high street agent or an online alternative. Most typical estate agents charge a commission based on a percentage of the sale price, usually between 1% and 1.25% plus VAT, accept on lower value properties where you usually pay a minimum fee of around £2,000 - £2,500 plus VAT can be the norm. The fee often covers valuation, marketing, viewings, and negotiating offers on your behalf. Conveyancing Fees Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership from you to the buyer, and you’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle this. Solicitor’s Fees & Searches - The cost of conveyancing typically ranges from £800 to £2,000, depending on the complexity of the sale and the location of your property. The fee may also include charges for tasks like managing the exchange of contracts, liaising with the buyer’s solicitor, and handling the transfer of funds. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement when selling a property in the UK, except for Listed properties. It rates the energy efficiency of your home and is valid for 10 years. The cost of obtaining an EPC ranges from £99 to £200, depending on the size and location of your property. Mortgage Exit Fees If you still have an outstanding mortgage on your property, selling your home might trigger early repayment charges or exit fees from your lender. Early Repayment Charges (ERC) - If you’re within a fixed-term mortgage and decide to pay it off early due to selling, your lender may charge an early repayment fee. This can be anywhere from 1% to 5% of the remaining mortgage balance, depending on how long you have left on the fixed term. Mortgage Exit Fees - Lenders may also charge a mortgage exit fee (also known as a deed release fee), which typically ranges from £50 to £300. This fee covers the administrative cost of closing your mortgage account. Home Improvements and Staging To attract buyers and achieve the best sale price, you might choose to make some home improvements or stage your property for viewings. Minor Repairs and Refreshments - Small fixes such as painting, repairing leaky taps, or improving curb appeal can make a big difference. Costs will vary depending on the work required, but it’s common to spend anywhere from £500 to £2,000 on touch-ups. Home Staging - Professional home staging services can help make your property more appealing to potential buyers. Staging costs typically range from £500 to £2,500 or more, depending on the size of your home and the level of service required. Tip: Even if you choose not to invest in professional staging, decluttering and cleaning your home thoroughly before viewings is essential. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) In most cases, you won’t have to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when selling your main home due to Private Residence Relief. However, if the property is not your main residence (e.g., a second home or a rental property), you may be liable for CGT on any profit made from the sale. Capital Gains Tax Rates - The amount of tax you pay will depend on the profit made from the sale and any allowable deductions. Tip: The rate for CGT on property can vary and always consult a tax advisor or accountant to determine your CGT liability and whether you qualify for any deductions. Removal Costs Once the sale is complete, you’ll need to factor in the cost of moving. Removal costs vary depending on the distance, volume of belongings, and whether you require packing services. Professional Removals - Hiring a professional removal company can cost anywhere from £300 to £2,000 or more, depending on the size of your move and the distance involved. If you’re moving a long distance or have a large property, costs can be higher. Self-Move Costs - If you prefer a DIY approach, you can rent a van, which typically costs between £100 and £300 per day, depending on the size of the van and the distance Other Potential Costs Leasehold Fees - If your property is leasehold, you may need to pay for a leasehold information pack from the freeholder, which can cost between £150 and £300. Storage Fees - If there’s a gap between selling your home and moving into your new one, you may need to pay for storage. Storage units typically cost between £50 and £200 per month, depending on the size of the unit. Surveys - While it’s typically the buyer’s responsibility to commission surveys, in some cases, sellers may choose to arrange a survey to speed up the process or address potential issues ahead of time. Surveys can cost between £300 and £1,500, depending on the type. Conclusion Selling your home in the UK involves various costs, from estate agent fees and conveyancing charges to potential mortgage exit fees and removal expenses. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the sale price, being aware of these costs will help you plan your budget effectively and avoid any financial surprises during the process. By understanding and preparing for these expenses, you’ll be in a better position to make informed decisions and maximize the financial return from your home sale....
Nov 30, 2024
How to Negotiate for the Best Sale Price: Tips to Get the Best Deal
Selling your home is a major financial and emotional decision, and getting the best possible price is often a top priority. The negotiation process can feel intimidating, but with the right tactics, you can secure a deal that works in your favour. In this guide, we'll offer key tips and negotiation strategies to help you achieve the best sale price for your property in the UK. Know Your Market Inside and Out Before entering any negotiation, it’s crucial to understand the current property market. Are you in a buyer’s market, where supply outweighs demand, or a seller’s market, where properties are in short supply and in high demand? Knowing the state of the market can help you determine how flexible you can be during negotiations. Research Recent Sales - Check recent sales of comparable properties in your area. These “comps” will give you a clear understanding of what buyers are willing to pay and whether your initial asking price is competitive. Understand Market Trends - Keep an eye on local property market trends. Is the market heating up, or are prices cooling down? Understanding whether prices are rising or stabilising will help inform your strategy. Set a Realistic Asking Price A key element of negotiation is setting the right starting point. While it might be tempting to set a high asking price and wait for offers to roll in, pricing your property too high can deter potential buyers, leaving your home languishing on the market. On the other hand, pricing competitively can generate more interest and, in some cases, create a bidding war. Competitive Pricing - Consider setting your asking price slightly below market value to attract more buyers. This can increase competition, potentially leading to higher offers. Leave Room for Negotiation - Make sure your asking price leaves some room for negotiation, so you don’t feel pressured to accept a low offer right away. Most buyers expect to negotiate, so it’s wise to have some flexibility built into your price. Stay in Control During the Negotiation Process Once offers start coming in, it’s important to stay calm and in control. You don’t need to accept the first offer you receive, and being patient can often pay off. Don’t Show Your Cards Too Early - While you may be keen to move on, avoid signalling desperation to sell. Buyers can sense when a seller is eager, and this can weaken your negotiating position. Keep conversations neutral and focused on the property rather than personal reasons for selling. Use Time as a Tactic - If you receive an offer that’s lower than your expectations, don’t rush to reject it. Taking your time to consider and respond can signal that you’re confident in the value of your property and are willing to wait for a better offer. On the other hand, if a buyer is on a tight schedule, this could work to your advantage. Create Competition Competition is one of the best ways to drive up the sale price of your home. If you have multiple interested buyers, you’re in a much stronger position to negotiate. Encourage Multiple Offers - When several buyers are interested, let them know that other parties are also submitting offers. This can create a sense of urgency, prompting buyers to submit higher bids to secure the property. Best and Final Offers - In cases where you have several serious offers, consider asking for "best and final" offers. This signals to buyers that it’s their last chance to make an offer, and they’re more likely to submit their highest possible bid. Leverage Your Property’s Unique Features Highlighting the unique features of your home can add value in the buyer’s mind and give you more leverage during negotiations. Emphasize Strengths - Whether it’s a stunning garden, a newly renovated kitchen, or proximity to good schools, make sure buyers understand the unique aspects of your property that set it apart from others. These can justify a higher asking price and help keep negotiations in your favour. Understand the Buyer’s Motivation - Ask questions to find out what’s most important to the buyer. Are they looking for a quick move? Do they have a growing family and need space? Tailoring your negotiations to highlight how your property meets their needs can give you an advantage when discussing price. Counter Offers Thoughtfully When you receive an offer, even if it’s lower than your asking price, don’t dismiss it outright. Consider it as a starting point for negotiations. Respond with a Counteroffer - If the initial offer is too low, counter with a price that’s closer to your desired figure. This shows you’re willing to negotiate but are not ready to accept a low offer. Add Non-Monetary Conditions - In some cases, adding non-monetary elements to your counteroffer can sweeten the deal. For instance, you might offer to include certain furnishings or appliances in the sale to increase the property’s appeal without lowering the price. Be Ready to Walk Away As difficult as it may be, sometimes the best negotiating tactic is the willingness to walk away. If a buyer isn’t willing to meet your terms and you’re confident in the value of your property, walking away from negotiations can signal to the buyer that you’re serious about your bottom line. Hold Firm on Your Price - If you believe the offer is too low and another buyer is likely to come along, don’t be afraid to hold out for a better deal. However, make sure you have a clear idea of your absolute lowest acceptable price before entering negotiations. Don’t Burn Bridges - If you do decide to walk away from an offer, keep the conversation polite and professional. Circumstances may change, and the buyer might return with a higher offer in the future. Negotiating in a Buyer’s Market If you’re selling in a buyer’s market, where supply exceeds demand, negotiations may feel more challenging. In these conditions, it’s important to be more flexible. Consider Incentives - Offering to pay for part of the buyer’s closing costs, covering repairs, or including certain fixtures can make your offer more appealing without having to drastically lower the price. Be Realistic - In a buyer’s market, prices tend to be more subdued. If you’re not receiving the offers you’d hoped for, consider adjusting your asking price or being more flexible with your terms to encourage buyers to move forward. Conclusion Negotiating for the best sale price in the local property market is a balancing act of understanding the market, setting a realistic price, creating competition, and staying calm under pressure. Whether you’re in a seller’s or buyer’s market, having a strategy in place and knowing when to push for more-and when to compromise-will help you secure the best possible deal. By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle negotiations and get the best price for your property. ...
Nov 30, 2024
What Are Bridging Loans?
A Bridging Loan Should Be Viewed As A Short Term Financial Solution Home buyers in Ashbourne & Derbyshire who are seeking solutions to their short-term financial issues may have heard about bridging loans but may not know what they are. Fortunately, our expert team at Bennet Samways is on hand to give you all the information you need about what these loans are and when you can use one. What Can I Use a Bridging Loan For? A bridging loan is a short-term borrowing solution that is commonly used as a bridge between selling your property and buying another. Typically, a bridging loan can be used to: Bridge the gap if your home buying chain falls through. Purchase a property at an auction. Purchase buy-to-let properties quickly with no mortgage or deposit in place. Purchase a fixer-upper which is un-mortgageable. Develop a property. How Does a Bridging Loan Work? A bridging loan is different from a standard mortgage since it isn’t tied to income. You can borrow amounts from £50,000 up to as much as £10 million, however, this type of loan can be risky since it must be secured against some form of collateral, typically a property which you could lose if you cannot repay your loan. The amount of the loan will depend on equity and usually, the maximum amount you can borrow is 75% LTV (loan to value) including interest. The lender will also want to know how you plan to pay off the loan before granting you the money. There are several different exit strategies but the most commonly seen include: Property sale – you repay the bridging loan once you complete the sale of your existing property. Cash redemption – this is a good solution if you expect a pension pay out or the maturing of an investment soon. Flipping – you repay the loan once you’ve completed the work on the property you’ve bought and resold it. Are There Other Costs Associated with Bridging Loans? A bridging loan often incurs other fees as well as your interest repayments such as: Administrative fees Valuation fees Arrangement fees Legal fees Broker fees Often, these will be a percentage of your total loan, and checking the amount you’ll pay before signing the agreement is essential. Is There More Than One Kind of Bridging Loan? You may have either a closed or an open bridging loan. With an open bridging loan there is no fixed repayment date, but you’ll usually have to make full repayment within one year. With a closed bridging loan, you’ll have a fixed date for repayment and therefore, being accepted is more likely and the rates are usually more favourable. What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Bridging Loans? Advantages: It’s quicker and easier to get a bridging loan than a mortgage. You can finance purchases not covered by standard mortgages. You can borrow high amounts from £50,000 to £10 million. You can arrange repayment terms to suit you depending on your planned exit strategy. You can use them for many different property buying scenarios. You can usually avoid an early repayment charge with a bridging loan. Disadvantages: The interest rates are high There may be costly extra fees. You put your assets at risk if you take a bridging loan out. Is There an Alternative to A Bridging Loan? Although a bridging loan could be the solution you’ve been looking for, there are some other options which could suit you better depending on your circumstances. These include: Obtaining a secured loan Remortgaging your home Taking out an unsecured personal loan Getting a let-to-buy mortgage Asset refinancing If you’re ready to buy a property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, give Bennet Samways a call on 01335 818550 to find out more about how we can help. Alternatively, check our website at www.bennetsamways.co.uk to see some of the local properties we have listed for sale....
Dec 17, 2024
Home Working: 5 Budget-Friendly Home Office Ideas
Five budget-friendly tips to help you set up your home office Working from home is now a major part of people’s lives. For some, working from home has been the norm for many years, while for others the concept is still a little confusing. What’s important though is that your home office is somewhere you feel comfortable, can work competently and efficiently. Work has to be done, whether it’s in a purpose-built office or in a spare room. So, what should you be thinking about when setting up the perfect home office? Do you need to separate work life from home life? Do you need space to make calls, write, use the computer, analyse data? For most, both of these things will be important, so think about where your space is going to be. Is it a corner in the dining room or kitchen, or will it require the spare room, garden shed or integrated garage to be completely transformed? Once you’ve decided this, then you can look at what you’re going to do with the space. Make a list of what you need or want in your office space, and then prioritise the items. Refurbish and repurpose Setting up a home office doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Do you already have a desk or table in the garage that simply needs to be repainted? Do you have a few jars in the shed gathering dust and cobwebs? These could easily be washed and cleaned and used for pencils and pens and other stationery items. Make the most of what you already have to hand. Don’t get hung up on buying expensive prints Here’s an idea, instead of going to big chain stores and buying prints to hang on the wall, print out a favourite photo and buy a frame in which to put it. Not only is this a cheap way to furnish your office, it’s also more personal. Instead of spending a ton of cash on prints of New York skylines or forest glades, you could have an image of a favourite family holiday instead. These will look great and they will be inspirational too! Be thrifty If you think you need an office desk, or filing cabinet, then you could be thinking 'expensive'. But wait. There’s no need to hot-foot it to your local office furniture shop. Why buy new when you can find what you need simply by asking around? It might be that a local company has moved or scaled-down its office operations and is giving things away or getting rid of them cheaply. A friend or family member might have something you can make use of. Why spend a lot of money when you can find something cheaper or free? Keep an eye out on social media in particular and don’t be afraid to ask. Use blackboard paint Feeling creative? If you’re one of those people who needs to draw up creative ideas, or throw ideas on a mind map, then blackboard paint is for you. For just around £7 a tin, you can paint a blackboard area on part of a wall. You can then write on the wall with your creative ideas or formulae, and then simply wipe it clean afterwards. You will save on having to buy any equipment, and paper too, so you’re also doing your bit for the environment. Double the size with mirrors Working from home can often mean working in a smaller space than you’re used to, but have you thought about mirrors? A cleverly-sited floor-standing mirror will make your space immediately look bigger. Wall-mounted ones will also do the trick, as long as the frames are quite thin. It’s a trick that interior designers and retail outlets use so you should also make use of it. A floor-standing mirror from IKEA will cost from £50 upwards, and large frameless mirrors are only around £15 or £20. Designing and realising a home office is a personal thing, so get creative. Minimalist or packed with items, with a little thought, creating your home office doesn’t have to be an expensive project. If you're thinking of upsizing instead, and treating yourself to a property with a ready-made study, call our friendly team at Bennet Samways on 01335 818550 or email us at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk and we will be delighted to assist you. ...
Dec 17, 2024
What Are the Costs for Selling Your Home?
What Are the Costs for Selling Your Home Selling your home is a significant financial decision, and while you may be focused on achieving the best sale price, it's important to be aware of the costs involved in the process. From estate agent fees to legal expenses, various charges can add up quickly. To help you budget effectively, we’ve outlined the main costs you’ll encounter when selling your home in the UK. Estate Agent Fees Estate agent fees are typically the largest cost associated with selling your property. These fees can vary depending on the type of service and whether you choose a traditional high street agent or an online alternative. Most typical estate agents charge a commission based on a percentage of the sale price, usually between 1% and 1.25% plus VAT, accept on lower value properties where you usually pay a minimum fee of around £2,000 - £2,500 plus VAT can be the norm. The fee often covers valuation, marketing, viewings, and negotiating offers on your behalf. Conveyancing Fees Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership from you to the buyer, and you’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle this. Solicitor’s Fees & Searches - The cost of conveyancing typically ranges from £800 to £2,000, depending on the complexity of the sale and the location of your property. The fee may also include charges for tasks like managing the exchange of contracts, liaising with the buyer’s solicitor, and handling the transfer of funds. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement when selling a property in the UK, except for Listed properties. It rates the energy efficiency of your home and is valid for 10 years. The cost of obtaining an EPC ranges from £99 to £200, depending on the size and location of your property. Mortgage Exit Fees If you still have an outstanding mortgage on your property, selling your home might trigger early repayment charges or exit fees from your lender. Early Repayment Charges (ERC) - If you’re within a fixed-term mortgage and decide to pay it off early due to selling, your lender may charge an early repayment fee. This can be anywhere from 1% to 5% of the remaining mortgage balance, depending on how long you have left on the fixed term. Mortgage Exit Fees - Lenders may also charge a mortgage exit fee (also known as a deed release fee), which typically ranges from £50 to £300. This fee covers the administrative cost of closing your mortgage account. Home Improvements and Staging To attract buyers and achieve the best sale price, you might choose to make some home improvements or stage your property for viewings. Minor Repairs and Refreshments - Small fixes such as painting, repairing leaky taps, or improving curb appeal can make a big difference. Costs will vary depending on the work required, but it’s common to spend anywhere from £500 to £2,000 on touch-ups. Home Staging - Professional home staging services can help make your property more appealing to potential buyers. Staging costs typically range from £500 to £2,500 or more, depending on the size of your home and the level of service required. Tip: Even if you choose not to invest in professional staging, decluttering and cleaning your home thoroughly before viewings is essential. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) In most cases, you won’t have to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when selling your main home due to Private Residence Relief. However, if the property is not your main residence (e.g., a second home or a rental property), you may be liable for CGT on any profit made from the sale. Capital Gains Tax Rates - The amount of tax you pay will depend on the profit made from the sale and any allowable deductions. Tip: The rate for CGT on property can vary and always consult a tax advisor or accountant to determine your CGT liability and whether you qualify for any deductions. Removal Costs Once the sale is complete, you’ll need to factor in the cost of moving. Removal costs vary depending on the distance, volume of belongings, and whether you require packing services. Professional Removals - Hiring a professional removal company can cost anywhere from £300 to £2,000 or more, depending on the size of your move and the distance involved. If you’re moving a long distance or have a large property, costs can be higher. Self-Move Costs - If you prefer a DIY approach, you can rent a van, which typically costs between £100 and £300 per day, depending on the size of the van and the distance Other Potential Costs Leasehold Fees - If your property is leasehold, you may need to pay for a leasehold information pack from the freeholder, which can cost between £150 and £300. Storage Fees - If there’s a gap between selling your home and moving into your new one, you may need to pay for storage. Storage units typically cost between £50 and £200 per month, depending on the size of the unit. Surveys - While it’s typically the buyer’s responsibility to commission surveys, in some cases, sellers may choose to arrange a survey to speed up the process or address potential issues ahead of time. Surveys can cost between £300 and £1,500, depending on the type. Conclusion Selling your home in the UK involves various costs, from estate agent fees and conveyancing charges to potential mortgage exit fees and removal expenses. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the sale price, being aware of these costs will help you plan your budget effectively and avoid any financial surprises during the process. By understanding and preparing for these expenses, you’ll be in a better position to make informed decisions and maximize the financial return from your home sale....
Nov 30, 2024
How to Negotiate for the Best Sale Price: Tips to Get the Best Deal
Selling your home is a major financial and emotional decision, and getting the best possible price is often a top priority. The negotiation process can feel intimidating, but with the right tactics, you can secure a deal that works in your favour. In this guide, we'll offer key tips and negotiation strategies to help you achieve the best sale price for your property in the UK. Know Your Market Inside and Out Before entering any negotiation, it’s crucial to understand the current property market. Are you in a buyer’s market, where supply outweighs demand, or a seller’s market, where properties are in short supply and in high demand? Knowing the state of the market can help you determine how flexible you can be during negotiations. Research Recent Sales - Check recent sales of comparable properties in your area. These “comps” will give you a clear understanding of what buyers are willing to pay and whether your initial asking price is competitive. Understand Market Trends - Keep an eye on local property market trends. Is the market heating up, or are prices cooling down? Understanding whether prices are rising or stabilising will help inform your strategy. Set a Realistic Asking Price A key element of negotiation is setting the right starting point. While it might be tempting to set a high asking price and wait for offers to roll in, pricing your property too high can deter potential buyers, leaving your home languishing on the market. On the other hand, pricing competitively can generate more interest and, in some cases, create a bidding war. Competitive Pricing - Consider setting your asking price slightly below market value to attract more buyers. This can increase competition, potentially leading to higher offers. Leave Room for Negotiation - Make sure your asking price leaves some room for negotiation, so you don’t feel pressured to accept a low offer right away. Most buyers expect to negotiate, so it’s wise to have some flexibility built into your price. Stay in Control During the Negotiation Process Once offers start coming in, it’s important to stay calm and in control. You don’t need to accept the first offer you receive, and being patient can often pay off. Don’t Show Your Cards Too Early - While you may be keen to move on, avoid signalling desperation to sell. Buyers can sense when a seller is eager, and this can weaken your negotiating position. Keep conversations neutral and focused on the property rather than personal reasons for selling. Use Time as a Tactic - If you receive an offer that’s lower than your expectations, don’t rush to reject it. Taking your time to consider and respond can signal that you’re confident in the value of your property and are willing to wait for a better offer. On the other hand, if a buyer is on a tight schedule, this could work to your advantage. Create Competition Competition is one of the best ways to drive up the sale price of your home. If you have multiple interested buyers, you’re in a much stronger position to negotiate. Encourage Multiple Offers - When several buyers are interested, let them know that other parties are also submitting offers. This can create a sense of urgency, prompting buyers to submit higher bids to secure the property. Best and Final Offers - In cases where you have several serious offers, consider asking for "best and final" offers. This signals to buyers that it’s their last chance to make an offer, and they’re more likely to submit their highest possible bid. Leverage Your Property’s Unique Features Highlighting the unique features of your home can add value in the buyer’s mind and give you more leverage during negotiations. Emphasize Strengths - Whether it’s a stunning garden, a newly renovated kitchen, or proximity to good schools, make sure buyers understand the unique aspects of your property that set it apart from others. These can justify a higher asking price and help keep negotiations in your favour. Understand the Buyer’s Motivation - Ask questions to find out what’s most important to the buyer. Are they looking for a quick move? Do they have a growing family and need space? Tailoring your negotiations to highlight how your property meets their needs can give you an advantage when discussing price. Counter Offers Thoughtfully When you receive an offer, even if it’s lower than your asking price, don’t dismiss it outright. Consider it as a starting point for negotiations. Respond with a Counteroffer - If the initial offer is too low, counter with a price that’s closer to your desired figure. This shows you’re willing to negotiate but are not ready to accept a low offer. Add Non-Monetary Conditions - In some cases, adding non-monetary elements to your counteroffer can sweeten the deal. For instance, you might offer to include certain furnishings or appliances in the sale to increase the property’s appeal without lowering the price. Be Ready to Walk Away As difficult as it may be, sometimes the best negotiating tactic is the willingness to walk away. If a buyer isn’t willing to meet your terms and you’re confident in the value of your property, walking away from negotiations can signal to the buyer that you’re serious about your bottom line. Hold Firm on Your Price - If you believe the offer is too low and another buyer is likely to come along, don’t be afraid to hold out for a better deal. However, make sure you have a clear idea of your absolute lowest acceptable price before entering negotiations. Don’t Burn Bridges - If you do decide to walk away from an offer, keep the conversation polite and professional. Circumstances may change, and the buyer might return with a higher offer in the future. Negotiating in a Buyer’s Market If you’re selling in a buyer’s market, where supply exceeds demand, negotiations may feel more challenging. In these conditions, it’s important to be more flexible. Consider Incentives - Offering to pay for part of the buyer’s closing costs, covering repairs, or including certain fixtures can make your offer more appealing without having to drastically lower the price. Be Realistic - In a buyer’s market, prices tend to be more subdued. If you’re not receiving the offers you’d hoped for, consider adjusting your asking price or being more flexible with your terms to encourage buyers to move forward. Conclusion Negotiating for the best sale price in the local property market is a balancing act of understanding the market, setting a realistic price, creating competition, and staying calm under pressure. Whether you’re in a seller’s or buyer’s market, having a strategy in place and knowing when to push for more-and when to compromise-will help you secure the best possible deal. By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle negotiations and get the best price for your property. ...
Nov 30, 2024
What Are Bridging Loans?
A Bridging Loan Should Be Viewed As A Short Term Financial Solution Home buyers in Ashbourne & Derbyshire who are seeking solutions to their short-term financial issues may have heard about bridging loans but may not know what they are. Fortunately, our expert team at Bennet Samways is on hand to give you all the information you need about what these loans are and when you can use one. What Can I Use a Bridging Loan For? A bridging loan is a short-term borrowing solution that is commonly used as a bridge between selling your property and buying another. Typically, a bridging loan can be used to: Bridge the gap if your home buying chain falls through. Purchase a property at an auction. Purchase buy-to-let properties quickly with no mortgage or deposit in place. Purchase a fixer-upper which is un-mortgageable. Develop a property. How Does a Bridging Loan Work? A bridging loan is different from a standard mortgage since it isn’t tied to income. You can borrow amounts from £50,000 up to as much as £10 million, however, this type of loan can be risky since it must be secured against some form of collateral, typically a property which you could lose if you cannot repay your loan. The amount of the loan will depend on equity and usually, the maximum amount you can borrow is 75% LTV (loan to value) including interest. The lender will also want to know how you plan to pay off the loan before granting you the money. There are several different exit strategies but the most commonly seen include: Property sale – you repay the bridging loan once you complete the sale of your existing property. Cash redemption – this is a good solution if you expect a pension pay out or the maturing of an investment soon. Flipping – you repay the loan once you’ve completed the work on the property you’ve bought and resold it. Are There Other Costs Associated with Bridging Loans? A bridging loan often incurs other fees as well as your interest repayments such as: Administrative fees Valuation fees Arrangement fees Legal fees Broker fees Often, these will be a percentage of your total loan, and checking the amount you’ll pay before signing the agreement is essential. Is There More Than One Kind of Bridging Loan? You may have either a closed or an open bridging loan. With an open bridging loan there is no fixed repayment date, but you’ll usually have to make full repayment within one year. With a closed bridging loan, you’ll have a fixed date for repayment and therefore, being accepted is more likely and the rates are usually more favourable. What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Bridging Loans? Advantages: It’s quicker and easier to get a bridging loan than a mortgage. You can finance purchases not covered by standard mortgages. You can borrow high amounts from £50,000 to £10 million. You can arrange repayment terms to suit you depending on your planned exit strategy. You can use them for many different property buying scenarios. You can usually avoid an early repayment charge with a bridging loan. Disadvantages: The interest rates are high There may be costly extra fees. You put your assets at risk if you take a bridging loan out. Is There an Alternative to A Bridging Loan? Although a bridging loan could be the solution you’ve been looking for, there are some other options which could suit you better depending on your circumstances. These include: Obtaining a secured loan Remortgaging your home Taking out an unsecured personal loan Getting a let-to-buy mortgage Asset refinancing If you’re ready to buy a property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, give Bennet Samways a call on 01335 818550 to find out more about how we can help. Alternatively, check our website at www.bennetsamways.co.uk to see some of the local properties we have listed for sale....
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