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Painting can either be a pleasure or a pain! Some people love it, while others think it’s one of the worst jobs to do in the home. Some might be budding Van Gogh's, others would rather watch the paint dry. But it needs to be done every so often. And, that bit behind the radiator is often the most tricky. We were discussing this in the office the other day and it turns out that none of us really had any idea as to how best go about this annoying job. So we put our heads together and have come up with our best tips! [caption id="attachment_2178" align="alignnone" width="640"] sunny room with a radiator on a orange wall (3d render)[/caption] Should I remove the radiator to paint behind it? First things first - decide whether you are taking the radiator off the wall, or painting around it. Some radiators are quite literally hooked onto a bracket and can be lifted off temporarily, while others can be a little more tricky to deal with. If you’re painting, it may well be easier to leave the radiator in situ (particularly if you’re not so confident about DIY). However, if you’re wallpapering, then it’s a different story as you need to get the paper flush and looking great. Yes! For a professional finish remove the radiator! If you want a really professional finish, we would suggest that the painting must be done behind the radiator fully. If you are preparing your house for sale, this is definitely how you should do it because people will be looking at all aspects and will notice little things like this. If you’re using a roller or standard brush, it will be difficult to get right behind the radiator, so removing it completely might be the right course of action. However, if removing the radiator you'll need to do it properly which can be tricky and if you're not a professional plumber you could find yourself in a tight spot! Should I do it myself or get a painter and decorator in? It’s a choice you must make - do you paint it yourself or do you hire a professional to come in to do the job? Painting can be done by almost anyone, but it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Great painters are hard to come by as they’re always in demand, so you may well have to do some forward planning. If you’re doing the painting work yourself and leaving the radiator attached to the wall, here are three steps to painting behind the radiator and ensuring you do a good job. Step One: Prepare You’ll need to put dust sheets on the floor, ventilate the room and put masking tape around the radiator and its pipes to protect them from splashes. You’ll need to turn the radiator off too, not because you’re painting it, but if it gets hot you could hurt yourself! Step Two: Choose your Brush We would suggest that you use a normal type of paintbrush first. Reach as far as you can from the top of the radiator, work down the sides, and then from underneath. Paint, dry, repeat. Be careful and take it slowly. Tip: Don't Overload your Brush Sounds simple doesn’t it, and it is. But, don’t overload your brush. It’s not so bad if you do it when it’s a whole wall you’re painting, but when you’re working behind a radiator it’s more difficult to spread the paint out and make it look good. If you have too much paint on your brush, you’re more likely to spill it too - on the floor and on the radiator. Step Three: Use a Roller So you have painted around and behind the radiator as much as you can, and now you need a roller paintbrush. You can get these from the DIY store of your choice, and they come with either a short handle or a long one. Reach down and make long, slow strokes with the roller. When you’ve completed the painting, stop and take a step back. Look over what you have done and how even it is then you can go back and rectify any bits you've missed if need be. So, you’ve painted behind the radiator, but have you thought about painting the radiator itself? You should. A nice wall is great but if the radiator is discoloured, rusty, and dusty, it’s not a great look - particularly if you’re going to put your home on the market. Don't forget to use special radiator paint if you are going to do this. We hope our advice helps. In fact, we have lots of ideas to help you spruce up your home. If you want any further tips, get in touch. Call us on 01335 818550 or email stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk.

Should I Use The Broker Recommended By My Estate Agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire? Finding your dream property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire is an exhilarating journey, but navigating the complexities of securing a mortgage to purchase it can be overwhelming. As a homebuyer in the UK, you may have received the suggestion of working with a mortgage broker recommended by your estate agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. But do you need a mortgage broker? In this blog post, the team at Bennet Samways explore the benefits of partnering with a mortgage broker endorsed by your estate agent. You will discover how by working together in tandem with this professional combination can unlock your dream home and streamline your home-buying experience. Unparalleled Expertise and Access to Options -A recommended mortgage broker can bring a wealth of expertise to the table. They will possess in-depth knowledge of the mortgage market, lending criteria, and current industry trends. By leveraging this expertise, they will guide you through the complexities of the mortgage process. Moreover, recommended mortgage brokers have access to a wide range of lenders and mortgage products, including exclusive deals that may not be readily available to the general public. They will scour the market on your behalf, carefully and methodically putting together mortgage options tailored to your needs and financial circumstances. This access to diverse options ensures you have the best chance of finding a mortgage that suits your budget and requirements and maximises your purchasing power. Seamless Collaboration and Communication:One of the most apparent advantages of using a mortgage broker recommended by your estate agent is the seamless collaboration and communication between these two professionals. Your estate agent, who deeply understands your property preferences and financial situation, can effectively communicate your needs to the mortgage broker. The close working relationship between an estate agent and a mortgage broker streamlines the exchange of information, expediting decision-making and reducing potential delays. They work in harmony, leveraging each other's expertise to provide you with a smooth and efficient home-buying process. This synergy saves you time and effort while instilling confidence that a cohesive team is handling all aspects of your home purchase. Tailored Solutions for Your Homebuying Journey:A mortgage broker recommended by your estate agent understands that your home-buying journey is unique. They recognise that your financial goals, preferences, and circumstances require personalised attention, so with this understanding, they provide tailored solutions that will be unique to you. The mortgage broker will thoroughly analyse your financial situation, considering factors such as income, outgoings and other expenses, plus your credit history. Once they have all this information, they will guide you towards mortgage options that match your affordability and long-term plans. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, a recommended mortgage broker can navigate the complex landscape, presenting you with viable options and empowering you to make informed decisions. They will provide insights into various mortgage types, such as fixed-rate mortgages, variable-rate mortgages, or government-backed loans, with the mortgage broker explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each option before eventually recommending a mortgage that best suits your needs and financial goals. Furthermore, a mortgage broker will assist you in understanding the costs associated with the mortgage, such as interest rates and any potential pre-payment penalties. Their expertise ensures that you know the financial implications of your mortgage decision, enabling you to budget and plan accordingly. Maximising Opportunities and Savings:A mortgage broker recommended by your estate agent is adept at identifying opportunities and leveraging them to your advantage. They stay updated on market conditions, interest rate fluctuations, and available incentives. By keeping a close eye on the market, they can identify optimal times to lock in favourable interest rates, potentially saving you thousands of pounds over the lifetime of your mortgage. Additionally, recommended brokers possess strong negotiation skills. They will communicate on your behalf with lenders to present your financial profile in the best light and highlight your creditworthiness. Their unparalleled expertise, access to options, seamless collaboration with your estate agent, and tailored solutions enhance your chances of securing the perfect mortgage for your dream property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. By maximizing opportunities and savings, they not only simplify the mortgage process but also empower you to make confident decisions. When selecting a mortgage broker, consider the recommendation of your estate agent, but also conduct your own research to ensure their compatibility with your needs. Bennet Samways are estate agents in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Call us on 01335 818550 or email stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.

Welcome, First-Time Homebuyers! Are you ready to embark on the exciting adventure that is buying your first home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire? Great, because the team here at Bennet Samways are looking forward to being your trusty guide! We have some fantastic tips and advice that will help you navigate the home-buying process with confidence. So let's get started.. Tip 1. Don't Let Emotions Run the Show - While entering a charming house with a white picket fence may stir your heart, remember that buying a home is a significant financial decision. Stay grounded, take lots of deep breaths and always let your head lead the way. Tip 2. Get Your Finances in Order - Ah, finances, the necessary evil. Before you start house hunting, make sure your credit score is looking sharp and consider getting a decision in principle (DIP) for a mortgage in place. This step will give you a clear idea of your budget and demonstrate to the estate agent and the seller that you mean business. 'Tip 3. The Art of House Hunting - Get ready to unleash your inner detective! Make a list of your must-haves' and 'nice-to-haves' in a home. Research different areas that are of interest to you at different times of the day. Make lots of notes (or take pictures) on the pros & cons of the location. Always remember, it's okay to fall in love with a house, but don't forget Tip #1! Tip 4. The Inspection Survey - Once you've found "the one," it's time to get down and dirty with a survey. Hire a qualified surveyor to uncover any hidden issues that might turn your dream home into a money pit. You don't want any surprises lurking in the basement! Tip 5. The Art of Negotiation - Now, this is where things can get spicy! When it comes to getting your dream home for the best price, channel your inner negotiator, but remember to be reasonable. Consult with your estate agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, and do not be afraid to haggle - what have you got to lose? Tip 6. Embrace the Paperwork Tsunami - Brace yourself for an avalanche of paperwork. From contracts to questionnaires, fixtures and fittings to money laundering - it can feel overwhelming. Take your time, read everything carefully, and don't hesitate to ask questions. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to signing for what will probably be the biggest purchase of your life. Tip 7. Surround Yourself with a Dream Team - No, we're not talking about unicorns and rainbows (although that would be cool). We mean building a reliable team of professionals, such as estate agents, mortgage brokers, conveyancers and surveyors who will guide you through the process. They're the superheroes who will protect you from any roadblocks lurking in the shadows. Tip 8. The Great Moving Adventure - Ah, moving, the joyous event that makes us realise just how much "stuff" we've accumulated over the years. Start decluttering early, pack strategically, and enlist the help of friends! And don't forget to label your boxes, or you might end up with your underwear in the kitchen! Tip 9. The Sweet Taste of Victory - Congratulations, you've made it! You're now a proud homeowner. Celebrate this milestone, throw a housewarming party, and revel in the joy of having a space you can call your own. Pop that champagne and let the good times roll! Tip 10. Embrace the Imperfections - Owning a home is an ongoing adventure, filled with repairs, renovations, and a fair share of surprises. Embrace the imperfections, because they're what make your home uniquely yours. Are You Ready To Jump On The Property Ladder? As a first-time buyer in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, finding the right neighbourhood needn’t be a challenge if you follow our tips. If you’ve chosen an area in Ashbourne & Derbyshire and need more information, get in touch with our friendly team at Bennet Samways on 01335 818550 or at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk. We’re experts in the Ashbourne & Derbyshire property market and will help you find the perfect home!

Nobody can place a price upon the importance of keeping your family and property safe. However, with so many technology pieces on the market today, it can be challenging to know where to start with investing in gadgets to protect your home. Here, we take a look at some of the most popular gadgets on the market to help you stay safe at home. Video Doorbell Smart doorbells are convenient for letting the delivery driver know where to leave your parcel, but additionally, they provide a significant level of protection. This security gadget allows you to use your phone to see who is hovering around your front door immediately. Most smart doorbells have a security screw. Meaning, criminals cannot tamper with the device, and it will be almost impossible to remove during or before a burglary. All good smart doorbells have motion detectors. When motion is sensed around your front door, a notification is sent instantly to your smartphone, allowing you to tap into the camera and see who is loitering. Not only a great feature for when you are out of the home but during the night whilst you are in bed. This Ring Doorbell offers a vast range of security features, easy set-up, and a user-friendly app. Outdoor Security Light Outdoor security lights provide an element of protection without the expense of a full camera set up. Having a bright outside light will allow you and your family to leave and enter the property safely and easily. But it will also startle unwanted visitors, causing a fright and encouraging them to vacate your land. The motion sensor on this Auraglow security light is up to 18 metres, so it can be placed anywhere around your property and still provide ample light and security. Smart Plugs A smart plug is an adapter that transforms any household electrical item into a smart device. Smart plugs are great for energy efficiency and the general smooth running of your home. They work alongside your phone, allowing you to control items plugged-in from anywhere with an internet connection. A security feature here is the ability to turn on and off lights, giving the impression someone is in the building. This Kasa smart plug has a seamless app and handy voice controls. Smart plugs are an inexpensive gadget to help protect your home. Indoor Security Camera An indoor security camera does exactly what it says on the tin. It is the best way to see what is going on inside your home whilst you can not be there. A camera with two-way audio is excellent for pets, as well as children who might let themselves into the house after school. For intruders, the two-way system allows you to have a clear, HD video of them to hand over to the police - and allows you to frighten them away too. One of the best on the market is the Google Nest Cam IQ, boasting excellent picture quality in every light. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Providing full protection for your property goes further than deterring break-ins. Your smoke detector needs to do more than sound an alarm. The best devices on the market can locate precisely where a fire is, and even send alerts to your smartphone if you are not home. Gone are the days that burnt toast finds you clambering up to switch off the alarm. The Nest Protect, which can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, allows you to silence the sound from your smartphone, should you be confident the smoke is arising from an innocent source. Smart Locks Smart locks are still in their relative infancy; yet predicted to be a fast-growing piece of kit for every property. At first, the concept of a home without a physical key might seem alien. But once you consider the way most hotels have worked for years, it begins to make sense. Smart locks allow you to open your door with your fingerprint or smartphone app. Meaning they offer a tremendous amount of flexibility. You can add or remove users quickly and easily, should family or friends need to access your home. The August WiFi Smart Lock has an innovative auto-lock feature, so you will never again leave your house unlocked. Fake Security Cameras Fake security cameras are one of the most cost-effective security ‘gadgets’ available. They can be purchased inexpensively online and provide an immediate deterrent to criminals who may be considering targeting your home. However, be warned that experienced criminals are wise to fake cameras and can quickly spot the difference. Meaning, fake cameras are not an ideal option for the long term. Nonetheless, an excellent choice for those who need immediate protection on a minimal budget. Bennet Samways are your local property experts for the Ashbourne & Derbyshire area. Call us on 01335 818550 or email stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.

Multigenerational living is becoming hugely popular in the UK. Many older people are choosing to purchase property with their children during their retirement and this is for a variety of reasons, including care needs, financial incentives, or logistical purposes. If your parents don't need the structure and routine of a care home but could benefit from a helping hand from time to time, an annexe can provide an excellent solution. [caption id="attachment_2150" align="alignnone" width="640"] Home extension or addition, UK barn conversion to provide a single storey granny annexe, annex[/caption] What Is an Annexe? An annexe is a self-contained building on the land of another property. The annexe will often have the same address as the primary residence but will have its own living room, kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms. Annexes, (sometimes referred to as granny flats) are commonly used to house elderly relatives, but are sometimes alternatively occupied by teenagers or young adults who require a little more privacy. The Benefits of an Annexe First, an annexe allows the occupiers to remain independent. Your parents may be perfectly fine carrying out their regular daily routine, but lack the ability to maintain a large home. An annexe allows them to live independently whilst knowing you are just a stone's throw away when needed. Moreover, relatives can decorate the property precisely as they wish, making it feel homely and permanent. Additionally, multigenerational living brings the whole family together. Most modern families do not get the opportunity to spend as much time together as they wish. Busy lives often get in the way, but an annexe makes quality family time much more straightforward. Buying v Building an Annex Many would love the freedom to build an annexe on their property without the stress of moving house. However, the costs and logistics of this can cause a whole host of problems. The required space, cost of planning permission, and availability of tradespeople present barriers for those hoping to build an annexe on their land. However, building your own allows you to create a structure bespoke to your family's needs, complete with the facilities your relatives will benefit from. Of course, properties with annexes are significantly more expensive than without. However, purchasing a ready-made home perfect for your multigenerational household is infinitely less stressful. Financial Implications Firstly, purchasing a home with family can present awkward conversations. You might not be in the same financial position as each other, so setting a budget is often challenging. Speaking with a mortgage advisor is always recommended at this point. Although an annexe is technically a second home on the same plot, it does not attract the additional 3% stamp duty surcharge. This is a significant saving in comparison to purchasing two independent properties. Additionally, there will be substantially less council tax payable. Some authorities offer a 100% discount for annexes, whereas others apply a 50% reduction. What to Look For in an Annexe Proximity to the Main Property This will depend on the personal preferences of yourself and your parents. For example, some opt for annexes connected to the main property, whereas others prefer a substantial distance between the structures! The closer the building, the easier it is to provide support, whereas a little more distance will allow for greater privacy. Enough Space Your parents are moving into an annexe to allow them to retain independence, and therefore having enough space to enjoy their life is crucial. There should be ample room for them to live comfortably and store their belongings. If the property is too small, it can feel like a hotel, meaning your family will be reluctant to move. Shared Bills A shared water and electricity bill will simplify matters when purchasing a home with your parents. So, when viewing properties, be sure to check that this is the case. Where an annexe was originally built for private tenants, the bills are often disconnected from each other. Where this is true, speak with the current owners and discuss how you could have this amended. Accessibility You are potentially purchasing a property with an annexe for your parents to live in because they can no longer look after themselves completely. Therefore accessibility is of evident importance. This might include wheelchair access or appropriate facilities in the bathroom. Purpose Built v Add On When purchasing a home with an already built annexe, you must learn whether this is a purpose-built home or a conversion. Where the annexe is a garage or outhouse conversion, it might not be created to a high enough standard to home your elderly relatives. Converted structures cannot regulate temperature well, which can render them almost useless as a permanent living solution. We’re here to help Even though it may sound daunting, with our help, we can make the process of finding a suitable property for you and your family as easy as possible for you. At Bennet Samways, we provide expert help, guidance and support every step of the way. To start the conversation, get in touch with us today by calling 01335 818550 or via email at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk.

When selling your home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, you should avoid adding too much creative flair where possible. We’re not advising you to entirely supress your personality of course, but to be aware that some potential buyers will have difficulty visualising themselves living in your home if it’s got a huge personality all of its own! A well-painted, yet mostly plain canvas will allow your viewers to imagine their own belongings in the space, making the chances of them placing an offer on your property much higher. Should I Paint my Home Before Selling? First impressions count, and never more so than when you are selling your home. A recently painted property represents one that is loved and cared for, which will subconsciously make viewers more relaxed and at ease. Repainting is one of the most inexpensive ways to refresh your house before putting it on the market. Remember to complete the paintwork before the photographs are taken for the marketing of your property, otherwise, you risk your hard work being somewhat in vain! What colours should I choose to repaint my home? Choose blue for the colour of calm. Time and again, blue has been voted the best colour for those looking to sell their home. Soft, pastel blues look great in every room, especially in large spaces such as hallways and living areas. Additionally, blues are the ideal colour for your bathrooms. Blues with aqua or even silvery undertones are great for developing a water theme, without appearing excessive. As beautiful as they are, it is best to steer clear of turquoise or dark navy, which can often be too much for some house hunters. If these colours sit outside their personal taste, it can turn them off the property altogether. Choose white for a completely blank canvas. While it probably comes as no surprise, whites provide the perfect fresh canvas for new homeowners. Viewers will easily imagine their furniture and belongings in the space, helping aid a smooth selling process. Additionally, buyers immediately know it will be easy to put their own mark on the home, knowing there are no tricky bright or dark colours to remove. Pure bright white can feel a little clinical, so opting for something with warm undertones can be a great option to make the room a little softer. However, refrain from whites with a yellow undertone, which often appear very dated, and can give the illusion of old, stained walls. Choose Grey for a neutral base. Grey homes were once considered drab and boring, but new interior design trends have revitalised this colour scheme totally. Clever use of grey shades can allow you to use one colour throughout your whole property, dividing separate rooms by alternating shades. However, when using grey, be sure to opt for lighter, brighter shades. Dark tones can make rooms appear smaller, whereas light shades will make your whole property look slick, clean and fresh. Choose Earthy Greens to subtly bring the outside in. Although deep greens look stunning in living spaces and bedrooms, sticking to a more subtle earthy tone can dramatically help first impressions of the home. Sage greens work beautifully in kitchens, allowing you to present a bright, fresh room to your viewers, yet permitting a little personal style to shine through. Green tones are relaxing and can be emphasised with the clever use of soft furnishings and plants. Don’t forget about the exterior of your home This might not be as dramatic as completely repainting your whole property, but there are many areas outside that may benefit from a coat of paint. For example, repainting your garden fences can have a drastic impact. This might also be one of the first things your potential buyers see, guaranteeing an excellent opening impression. Are there any paint colours I should avoid? In our experience, brown tones perform notoriously poorly when marketing homes in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Although browns can be styled luxuriously and tastefully, many viewers simply struggle to imagine their own belongings against this very distinctive palette. Additionally, browns can dramatically change based on the lighting situation, meaning viewers get a very different impression of your home depending on what time of day they view. Also, avoid bright reds and oranges. Again, these bright colours are a fantastic way to inject personality into your home, but viewers want to see their new home, rather than your old house. A consistent colour theme is crucial A consistent paint theme running throughout your home is the easiest way to tie your property together, creating a cohesive experience for your potential buyers. Consider using the same paint or similar or complementary tones for the living spaces, running through the living room, hallways, dining area and even the kitchen. Where a property has multiple bathrooms, the paintwork here should also be consistent. If in doubt, don’t be afraid of using a single neutral colour for your whole home. Paint job done? Thinking of selling your home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire? Call Bennet Samways on 01335 818550 or email us at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk to arrange a free valuation.

Property Viewings Are Make-Or-Break Situations... If you’re trying to sell your home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire but aren’t having any luck, you may be wondering what you’re doing wrong. Property viewings are make-or-break situations as the majority of buyers usually decide whether they’re interested in purchasing the property within just five minutes of stepping inside! So, what’s the best way of ensuring prospective purchasers aren’t being deterred by your home? The team here at Bennet Samways has put together six property viewing secrets that could be causing you some selling issues...and of course how to resolve them! Is There Noise From Neighbours or Outside? Whatever the source of excess noise in your property, it could be a cause for your home failing to find a new owner. Many would-be purchasers will find a noisy property off-putting. So, if it's road noise or commercial noise from outside, consider investing in double or triple glazing for the windows. If your neighbours are causing an issue, that's slightly more tricky. Have a quiet, polite word is the best course of action, if you can. Are Your Kitchens Or BathroomsGrubby? The bathroom and kitchen are two heavily-used areas of the home, so they’re key elements when it comes to selling. Nobody wants to make a property with an unclean kitchen or dirty bathroom their home, so arrange for a professional deep clean to be carried out before you start hosting viewings, and make sure all surfaces are tidied and wiped down between visits. Do You Have Outdated Interiors? Décor has a vital part to play when it comes to buyers imagining themselves residing in your property. You should ensure there are minimal personal elements in the property, and it should be decorated in neutral, clean tones. While some viewers will be able to see past outdated interiors, many won't and it could be off-putting if it looks like there is lots of additional work to be done on the property. Is There Parking? These days, most homebuyers in Ashbourne & Derbyshire will expect private parking when seeking a new home, so not having any available parking space can be a major problem when selling your home. If possible, think about turning your front garden into a driveway. If this isn’t possible, look into other possible parking options nearby. Are Your Walls Stained Or Show Damp Patches? Handling any wall stains or obvious damp patches before listing your property for sale is essential. If the property smells musty, has any obvious ceiling watermarks, or any sign that there is black mould, call in a professional who can carry out an inspection and resolve the problem. Do You Insist On Being At Home During Viewings? When prospective buyers visit your home, they can find it difficult to speak honestly and make an unbiased decision if you’re in the property when they arrive. Potential buyers may feel as if they cannot ask questions or get unbiased answers and will feel awkward making them unlikely to be impressed with your property. Using the services of an estate agent will add a non-biased, professional view to interactions. At Bennet Samways, we are experts in property sales in the Ashbourne & Derbyshire region and can conduct viewings on your behalf so that your home can be presented in the best possible light. We’re looking forward to helping you find the perfect buyer for your property, so get in touch with us today by giving us a call on 01335 818550 or emailing us at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk.

When selling your home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, it is essential to possess a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This documentation plays a crucial role in helping potential buyers understand the energy efficiency and environmental impact of the property they are considering. In this article, we will delve into the significance of EPCs, why they are necessary when selling in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, and how to obtain one for your UK property. Understanding EPCs An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) provides information about a property's energy efficiency and its environmental footprint. These certificates are valid for a period of 10 years. Whether you are a homeowner or a landlord, having an EPC is mandatory when selling your property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. EPCs grade properties on a scale from A to G, with A being highly efficient and G indicating poor energy efficiency. This assessment takes into account various factors, including appliances, heating systems, insulation, and other elements affecting energy consumption. Importance of EPCs When Selling a Property In the UK, it is a legal requirement to have an EPC when selling any property. As the seller, it is your responsibility to ensure that your home has a valid and non-expired EPC. If your certificate has expired, it is crucial to arrange for a new one before putting your property on the market. Fortunately, your estate agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, Bennet Samways can assist you in quickly obtaining a new EPC. Apart from legal compliance, EPCs serve as a valuable tool for potential buyers. They provide insights into the energy efficiency of the property, including: Energy efficiency of the property and its appliances. Grade of energy efficiency achieved by the property. Estimation of potential energy bills for the property. Failure to obtain an EPC can result in fines during the conveyancing process. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to this requirement to ensure a smooth selling experience. EPCs for Landlord Sellers If you are a landlord selling a property, an EPC is still mandatory. It serves as an important document to showcase the energy efficiency of the property to potential tenants. However, there are a few exceptions to when an EPC may not be needed, such as for certain holiday accommodations based on the duration, or licensing agreements. Landlords should refer to the GOV.UK website for a complete list of exemptions. Obtaining an EPC for Your Home To obtain a new EPC, you will need to schedule an inspection with an accredited energy assessor. You can conveniently book an inspection online via the GOV.UK website or seek assistance from your trusted estate agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. If you wish to verify whether your property already has a valid EPC that hasn't expired, you can check the GOV.UK website for existing certificates. Contact Estate Agent in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, Bennet Samways At Bennet Samways, we are your local estate agents in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Our friendly team is dedicated to assisting you throughout the home selling process, including arranging your EPC and preparing your property for sale. Need a Home Valuation? Give us a call today on 01335 818550 or send us an email at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk to book your valuation now.