Current Listings
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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
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....
Nov 15, 2024
Everything You Need to Know About Purchasing a Second Property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire
Although second home owners are still in the minority, the number of people in the UK who have bought another property has increased dramatically over the past few decades, with over 10% of British adults now owning a second home. There are several reasons why people buy second homes, and if you’re thinking of joining the ranks of second homeowners, you need as much information as possible. If you’re considering buying another property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, here is our expert advice. Why Do People Purchase Second Homes? Everyone has their own reason for buying multiple properties but the three main reasons why people purchase second homes are: As an investment. The private rental sector represents a great investment opportunity for prospective landlords, so it isn’t too surprising that one of the main reasons for buying another property is as an extra form of revenue. As a holiday property. Whether in the UK or abroad, buying holiday homes is becoming increasingly popular. For somebody else. Buying a property for a family member, typically a child, may be a less popular reason to purchase a second home, but it happens fairly often. How Can I Buy Another Property? There are several ways in which you can buy another property including securing a second mortgage, buying with cash, or using the equity you have in your existing home. Although some people believe that homeowners must pay off their mortgage before they obtain another, this isn’t actually the case. It’s possible to have two concurrently-running mortgages. You will, however, have to be able to show you’re able to afford a second mortgage, have an excellent credit rating, and have a large deposit available. If your existing property already has plenty of equity, it’s possible to release it by remortgaging and then using the money to cover some or all of your new purchase. Which Other Costs Should I Consider When Purchasing A Second Home? As well as the cost of buying a second home, there are some extra costs to bear in mind. The most significant is the stamp duty levied on second properties, which at present stands at 3% of the purchase price. There is also Capital Gains Tax to pay when selling a second home, although that may not be too much of a concern depending on when, or if, you’re planning on selling up. Don’t forget, too, that council tax must be paid on second homes, although if you’re planning on renting out the property, the tenants can take over responsibility for making the payments. Where Can I Get More Advice About Buying Second Homes? If you’re considering purchasing a second home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, the experienced team at Bennet Samways is on hand to give you all the advice and information you need. We can help you find your perfect second home, so give us a call on 01335 818550 or send an email to stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk. We’re looking forward to hearing from you....
Nov 15, 2024
Latest Property Market Update November 2024
As November comes to an end, the UK property market reveals key trends that shape buying, selling, renting, and letting activities. Shifts in the economy, regional differences in house prices, and changes in rental demand are shaping the property market in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. This months update looks at the key trends and insights to help you stay ahead in the market. Market Overview The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that average UK house prices increased to £293,000 in August 2024, reflecting a 2.8% annual increase from the previous year. This growth is driven by consistent demand, with regional variations: England’s average price was £310,000 (up 2.3%), Wales £223,000 (up 3.5%), and Scotland £200,000 (a notable rise of 5.4%). Meanwhile, private rent inflation remains high, with average UK private rents rising by 8.4% in the 12 months to September 2024. Average monthly rents in England reached £1,336, with London seeing the highest growth (9.8%). *Data from ONS October 2024 Bulletin Navigating the Market as a Buyer The Bank of England recently adjusted its base interest rate to 4.75%, improving mortgage affordability for many buyers. This adjustment has made mortgage rates more competitive, offering prospective homebuyers in Ashbourne & Derbyshire an opportunity to access lower monthly payments and enhanced affordability compared to the peak rate levels seen in previous months. Lower interest rates can also boost buyer confidence, encouraging more first-time buyers and existing homeowners to consider entering the market or remortgaging for improved terms. Tip for Buyers: Securing a mortgage pre-approval before beginning to search for property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire not only demonstrates your commitment to proceed but also gives you a clear understanding of your budget. This proactive approach makes you stronger in a competitive market, particularly when competing against cash buyers or those without mortgage pre-approval. Maximising Your Sale Success Sellers are seeing increased market activity. Recent Rightmove data indicates a 27% rise in sales agreed year-on-year, reflecting strong demand, though buyers remain price-conscious due to economic factors including cost-of-living pressures and mortgage rate fluctuations. For sellers, this means striking the right balance in pricing is critical to capturing buyer interest while remaining competitive. Not on the market yet? Bennet Samways is your local estate agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. To request a valuation please call 01335 818550. Tip for Sellers: Setting the right price for your property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire is crucial for attracting serious buyers quickly. We will expertly value your home so that you achieve the price you deserve for your property. Additionally, you may wish to consider staging your home for viewings. Decluttering, making necessary repairs, and enhancing kerb appeal can all elevate buyer interest, potentially leading to faster offers at or above the asking price. Landlord Strategies for a Changing Market The rental market remains buoyant, with average UK rents climbing significantly over the past year, driven by strong demand and limited supply in many regions. Rising rental costs have made it increasingly competitive for tenants, especially in high-demand areas such as Ashbourne & Derbyshire. However, landlords need to be mindful of policy changes, such as the 2% increase in Stamp Duty Land Tax on additional properties. This adjustment may affect long-term investment strategies, potentially prompting a reassessment of portfolio growth, returns, and the viability of new property acquisitions. Tip for Landlords: Understanding legislative changes is critical for maximising rental yield in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Regularly review your rental portfolio with a property tax advisor to assess the implications on tax relief, deductions, or changes in tenant rights. Consider investing in energy efficiency improvements, as government incentives and tenant demand for greener homes may lead to longer tenancies and reduced void periods. Communication with tenants about their expectations and maintenance needs can also build stronger relationships, minimising costly turnover. Securing Your Next Home as a Renter Renters face a highly competitive market, characterised by strong demand for available properties and rapidly shifting rental prices. The government is working to make housing more affordable by expanding social housing options and giving tenants more rights, aiming to ease the pressure on renters struggling with rising costs. However, while these measures offer hope, the market remains difficult for many renters, particularly in high-demand areas where supply remains constrained. Tip for Renters: Begin your search for rental properties in Ashbourne & Derbyshire well in advance to increase your chances of finding a suitable home. Ensure you have necessary documents, such as identification, proof of income, and references, ready prepared for quick submission. A solid credit score and positive rental history can give you an advantage over other applicants. If negotiating with landlords, emphasise your stability and reliability to potentially secure more favourable lease terms. Oldest, Largest, Smallest! Did you know that the UK’s oldest surviving house is over 11,000 years old and located at Star Carr in North Yorkshire? The dwelling offers insight into Britain’s early settlement patterns, illustrating how the evolution of housing has shaped today’s market landscape. From the oldest to the largest! The UK's biggest private residence, Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire has over 300 rooms and spans 250,000 square feet. Its grand Baroque and Palladian architecture is an incredible example of Britain's rich historical legacy and reflects how luxury and scale remain a unique part of the property market. In stark contrast, one of the UK's smallest detached houses, at just 290 square feet, was recently marketed for £1.2million in Chelsea, West London, which highlights the creativity and premium pricing often found in high-demand urban areas. Looking Ahead The UK property market is expected to remain stable as 2024 closes, with potential growth of 2.5% to 4% predicted over the next two years. Economic shifts, interest rate adjustments, and evolving housing policies will continue to shape market trends. Bennet Samways brings you all the latest property market news each month. For more localised property news in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, please contact the team at Bennet Samways on 01335 818550 or stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk. Note: The information in this article is based on data as of November 2024 and may change. Always seek professional advice for specific circumstances....