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When it comes to selling your home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, there’s a lot of overwhelming information and old wives tales out there, and it can sometimes be difficult separating the fact from the fiction. Advice often comes from well-meaning friends or family members who are just trying to be helpful, but in reality, they are not property experts! Our team at Bennet Samways are all experienced property professionals with many years of experience between us. So, to ensure you are in possession of the correct information, here are seven home selling myths you're likely to hear and why they're not to be believed. Overpricing Your Home Will Lead to Better Offers Unfortunately, many sellers believe that by overpricing their house to start with, it leaves more room for negotiation and ultimately a better offer. That's why we often see sellers marketing their properties with the agent who has simply come in with the highest valuation! However, this is entirely false. When buyers are looking at properties, they'll search within their price range. If your property price has been inflated, then it's going to be competing against other properties that appear to be far better value for money, rather than sitting in the price bracket it should be in! This potentially means it will sit on the market for longer. Buyers whose budget doesn’t stretch to the higher price range will miss out on seeing your property altogether as they’re not even looking in that price bracket. You'll attract more offers and sell your property more quickly if it's been priced fairly. It gives it a chance to stand out among other properties in its price range, rather than being a poor relation in the higher price category. And you're more likely to see interested parties competing upwards rather than knocking you down. Getting an Immediate Offer Means it’s Priced Too Low If you've resisted the urge to overprice your home and an offer comes in straight away, it's tempting to think that you've missed a trick by not marketing it at a higher price. After all, if you had done, then you'd be a few thousand pounds better off surely. Again, this is false. Most buyers scour the market for a couple of months, waiting for the perfect property to come up, and there's a good chance that they've jumped in immediately to avoid missing out. Remember too that if you’d overpriced it, there’s a chance they wouldn’t have found it in the first place. A Better Offer Will Come Along if You Wait This is another all too familiar trap that sellers fall into. After all, if you’ve had an offer on the very same day your home has gone on sale, then surely there’s likely to be a whole queue of buyers lining up for it? No, not necessarily. You might just have been lucky enough to have the right buyer come along at the right time. If you receive a fair offer, then it's usually best to accept it whether your property has been on the market for hours, days , weeks or months. The Estate Agent With the Lowest Commission is the Best Option While you’ll naturally want to earn as much money from your property sale as possible, it doesn’t mean you should sign a contract with the estate agent who offers the cheapest fees. Selling a property can be a very stressful process. A good estate agent will help make it run as smoothly as possible while communicating effectively and providing outstanding service, so it's crucial you weigh up what's included in their fee. Although it’s tempting to cut costs as much as possible in the short term, you might come to regret it over the longer term, especially if your property isn’t selling. Major Renovations Will Offer the Biggest Return on Investment Many homeowners are under the impression that if they spend a few thousand pounds on a conservatory, a swimming pool or a landscaped garden, they'll just be able to add the cost of it to the house when they come to sell. Sadly, it's not quite as simple as this. Not all buyers will want to maintain a pool or require the space that a conservatory ultimately takes away from their garden, for example. Many buyers prefer to start with a blank canvas too, so they can add their own renovations. That’s not to say that a major renovation is a bad idea, but if you’re only doing it to see a return when you come to sell, then it might be worth considering the type of renovation or extension that will bring you the best returns. It's Not Worth Fixing the House up at all If you've decided to sell your property, it's understandable that you won't be thinking about spending even more money on it. After all, it won't be you seeing the benefits long-term. This logic is flawed, though, and it could cost you when it comes to getting the full asking price. A property that's well maintained and looked after is far more appealing to buyers. Fixing broken fences and gates, tidying the garden, replacing broken windows or doors and giving any tired rooms a fresh lick of paint will go a long way towards selling your property for its true value. Online Valuations are 100% Accurate Online valuations are a fantastic tool and we are most definitely in favour! However, a quick online valuation of your property should be used as a guide. Online tools don't always take into account the condition of a property or the extra value you may have added. They're simply using other similar sized and types of properties in your area as a guideline. The best way to get your property valued is always to contact an experienced, local estate agent who will come and value your property in person. 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.

Have You Heard Of The Right of Light Act? Homeowners in Ashbourne & Derbyshire are usually delighted when the sun shines – after all, we don’t see much of it for most of the year! However, if your neighbour’s trees are growing out of control and are blocking the sunlight from reaching your garden or windows, it’s likely that you’re not going to be very happy with the situation. The team here at Bennet Samways have a few tips to help you deal with this problem should it arise. Although you might want to force your neighbour to chop down their tree so you can enjoy more light, unfortunately, you can’t always do this. The only time you can get a tree chopped back is if it blocks the light from entering one of your property’s “defined apertures” such as the windows or glass doors. Even then, you may not always be able to legally do anything about the overgrown tree. Although there is a piece of legislation called the “Right of Light Act”, many legal claims are rejected since deciduous trees and trees that allow some sunlight through the branches and leaves won’t usually be covered. How Many Trees? An important distinction when dealing with blocked sunlight to your property is whether the problem is caused by a single tree or multiple trees. If you’re bothered by just one tall tree, your only real option is to discuss the situation with your neighbour to try to persuade them to take action. However, if two trees (or more) stand at least 2m above the ground level, the 2005 High Hedges Regulations in the Anti-Social Behaviour Act may come into play. You can approach the local council and ask for a notice to be issued to your neighbour asking them to reduce their trees’ height. Is The Tree Potentially Dangerous? If a tree is overhanging your garden and could potentially be dangerous to your property, your family, or yourself, it’s possible that it may be deemed a nuisance by the local council who can then take action for you. Alternatively, you could make a county court private nuisance claim, but this could be expensive as you’d need to use the services of a solicitor, as well as being potentially risky since you may lose your case. Can I Cut Down The Tree? Cutting your neighbour’s tree yourself may seem like the ideal solution, but it could cause you legal problems. For example, it could be subject to a tree preservation order, or be located in a conservation area. Although you have some common law rights to prune a tree if the branches encroach on your own property, it’s wise to be cautious. If you damage the tree, you could find yourself facing a liability claim. Therefore, employing the services of an arborist is best. You must also either return the pruned branches to your neighbour or reach an agreement beforehand about the disposal of them. If you’re considering looking for a new home with a lighter aspect, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01335 818550 today, or pop over to our website at [personalise with="website"] and see some of the properties in Ashbourne & Derbyshire we have listed for sale. We can help you find the perfect property.

If you’re thinking of putting your Ashbourne & Derbyshire property on the market, you’ll want to make it stand out from the crowd and generate as much interest as possible to ensure you achieve the full asking price. The team at Bennet Samways is highly experienced in property and will always make sure we give our utmost attention when accompanying viewings on your property, but there are always little tweaks you can make to your home to make sure it’s in outstanding condition and ready for the most discerning viewer! The Bennet Samways team have put our heads together and want to share with you the top nine things you can do to get your property ready for a sale! Neutralise Your Home There’s nothing wrong with injecting your personality into your home, but if you’re selling, then garish paint and leopard print feature walls won’t be to everyone’s taste. If this sounds anything like your property then give some serious consideration to some light redecorating, ideally using neutral colours such as off-white, magnolia, greys or pastels. It’s far more appealing to potential buyers and it will also allow them to visualise their own ideas better if they have a blank canvas to work with. Lighten Up Following on from our first point, there are some simple lighting tricks you can do to make your home feel brighter, which in turn will make it feel more spacious and appealing to potential buyers. It can be as simple as putting up a mirror opposite a window to reflect the light or ensuring you have high-voltage light bulbs fitted. If you have blackout blinds or curtains in your bedrooms then make sure these are open before any viewings, to avoid rooms appearing dark or gloomy. Declutter We all tend to throw empty boxes in cupboards (just in case) and gather ‘stuff’ as the years pass. If you’ve been hoarding items, then selling your property is the perfect time to eliminate unwanted items and declutter. It’ll help your home appear more spacious and there’s potentially the added benefit of making a few pounds selling some of your old belongings. Deodorise Did you know that your home has its own distinctive smell? Obviously, not all houses have strong smells but if you regularly smoke or vape indoors or you have a cat or dog causing a whiff, then no matter how beautiful your house may be, this is likely to be the first thing a visitor notices when they walk through the front door – and it can be very off-putting. If your property has a strong smell to it then give it a good deep clean before any viewings or get professionals in if you need to. First Impressions are Everything It’s rare that you’ll make a sale at first glance, but you can definitely lose one! If you have an overgrown garden, a grubby front door and a broken gate then it’s time to get your gardening gloves on and tidy it all up. Kerb appeal is important not only because many potential viewers will do a ‘drive by’ to check out the property before booking a viewing, but first impressions are what always form the basis of someone’s opinion of your property. Things that can damage your home’s kerb appeal include having dirty wheelie bins on display, smeared windows and chipped paintwork, so spend a little time maintaining your outdoor areas and be sure everything is up to scratch before the viewings start. Adding little extras like a potted plant or a lamp to light up your entrance can make a big difference too. You don’t need to do anything extravagant, just remember, it’s all in the details! Show Off Your Home Assets Step room to room in your home and check for little things that may detract the attention of a viewer: If you have a study or a room you are using as an office, ensure your desk is tidy and your paperwork is filed away so that viewers can see an organised workspace. If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s not being blocked by toys or extra bits of furniture that you haven’t stored away so that viewers can imagine themselves cosy by the fire. If you have a dining table – a common dumping ground for pretty much everything - make sure it’s clear of any paperwork or household bits that have been piling up so that viewers can see there is a defined place to eat. If you have a utility room, remove piles of laundry and tidy away detergents so that viewers can appreciate the extra space catering to the needs of a family. When it comes to our homes it’s easy to take some of the features we see every day for granted, but to a viewer they may be just what they’re looking for in a home, so be sure to highlight all the best features of your property. Be Prepared Think back to when you bought your property. What questions did you have for the estate agent? If a buyer were to ask how old the windows are and if they have a guarantee would you know the answer? What about the last time you had the boiler serviced? When was the central heating checked? Be prepared and find your paperwork and service history relating to your home before it’s requested to save time! Service the boiler Check the central heating system Find any guarantees and warranties Fix up, Look Sharp Keeping on top of the maintenance of your home is crucial when you bring your property to market. If you haven’t regularly maintained your home, now is the time to get all those little niggly jobs done. Make sure everything’s as well maintained as possible, whether it’s fixing a damaged fence or just replacing a broken lightbulb, these minor details can make a big difference to potential buyers. It shows that your house is well looked after, and it will give viewers fewer excuses to negotiate. Make your property as flawless as possible – touch up paintwork and don’t forget to check gutters and drainpipes to get rid of leaves and debris. Depersonalise Buyers want to imagine themselves living in a home, so seeing pictures of strangers all over the house can actually have an off-putting effect, even though it’s your home! Don’t remove every family photo, you’re still living there of course, but there’s a fine line between making a home look lived in and loved and showcasing it as someone else’s dream home! Think about putting a few photos away before viewings. The space created will allow viewers to get a better idea of what they would do with the space and to imagine it as their own. For no-obligation advice on buying or selling a home in Ashbourne & Derbyshire please contact our expert property team at Bennet Samways on 01335 818550.

In the bustling world of real estate, where online listings dominate the landscape and digital marketing strategies reign supreme, it's easy to overlook the humble yet mighty for sale board. In an era where buyers browse properties from the comfort of their smartphones and tablets, the question arises: Are for sale boards still relevant? The resounding answer from seasoned estate agents is a definitive yes. Let's delve into why these physical markers remain a vital tool in the arsenal of any successful estate agent. Local Visibility and Brand Presence For sale boards act as powerful local advertisements. Placed strategically in front of properties, they catch the attention of passersby, neighbours, and anyone exploring the area. They serve as constant reminders that a property is on the market, effectively enhancing brand visibility for the estate agency. Even those not actively seeking a property may take note, potentially leading to word-of-mouth referrals. Targeted Marketing While online listings can reach a broad audience, for sale boards target a specific locale. They are particularly effective in areas with high foot traffic or in neighbourhoods where potential buyers may be actively seeking property. The board provides instant information about the property, enticing those who are in the market for a new home. Building Trust and Credibility A professionally designed for sale board conveys trust and credibility. It signals to prospective clients that the property is represented by a reputable estate agency, instilling confidence in the minds of both buyers and sellers. In an industry built on trust, this visual representation can make a significant difference in attracting clients. Facilitating Direct Contact For sale boards offer a direct point of contact for interested parties. They often display the estate agent's contact information, allowing prospective buyers to reach out immediately for more details or to schedule viewings. This instant connection can expedite the sales process and create a seamless experience for all parties involved. Complementing Online Marketing While online platforms play a crucial role in modern real estate marketing, for sale boards complement these efforts rather than competing with them. They serve as physical manifestations of digital listings, reinforcing the property's presence in the market. Potential buyers who see a property online and then encounter it’s for sale board in person are more likely to take action. Navigating Local Regulations In some areas, local regulations may require the display of for sale boards for certain types of properties or within specific neighbourhoods. Compliance with these regulations is essential for staying in good standing with local authorities and maintaining a positive reputation within the community. Creating a Sense of Urgency For sale boards can create a sense of urgency among potential buyers. Seeing a property prominently displayed as "for sale" may prompt them to act quickly, fearing they might miss out on a desirable opportunity. This can lead to faster sales and more favourable outcomes for sellers. Conclusion In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate marketing, for sale boards remain a timeless and indispensable tool for estate agents. Far from being obsolete in the digital age, these physical markers continue to play a vital role in local visibility, targeted marketing, brand credibility, and facilitating direct contact with potential buyers. When integrated thoughtfully with online strategies, for sale boards can enhance the overall marketing efforts of estate agents and contribute to successful property transactions. So, the next time you pass by a property with a for sale board, remember its enduring importance in the intricate tapestry of real estate marketing.

The property market isn't just a playground for serious investors and homebuyers. It's also a treasure trove of the quirky and unusual! Let's look at some of the most fun and fascinating aspects that make the UK's property scene uniquely charming. Tiny Houses, Big Dreams The charm of the tiny house movement is sweeping through the UK, capturing the imagination of those dreaming of a simpler, more sustainable life. These micro-homes, which often occupy no more than 400 square feet, are a marvel of modern ingenuity and minimalist living. Let's look at a typical example: a tiny house nestled in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds. This tiny abode, affectionately named "The Hobbit Hutch," spans a mere 380 square feet. Its exterior is clad in reclaimed wood, with a green living roof that blends into the surrounding scenery. Inside, the space is maximized with multi-functional furniture; a sofa that transforms into a bed, a fold-down dining table, and a compact kitchen that hides appliances with cleverly designed panels. The sleeping loft, accessed by a ladder, holds a queen-sized bed with a skylight overhead for stargazing. Despite its size, "The Hobbit Hutch" is equipped with modern comforts, including a wood-burning stove for chilly evenings. In fact, the space is so efficiently insulated that a single candle can take the edge off the brisk winter air! The home also has plenty of eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and a composting toilet, embodying the principles of eco-conscious living without sacrificing style or comfort. Sadly, The Hobbit Hutch isn’t for sale, but if it was, there would undoubtedly be plenty of viewings! Tiny houses like this aren't just a passing trend; they represent a conscious decision to live with less and focus on the quality of life over square footage. Owners of such homes often share a sense of community, a bond over their choice to buck the trend of bigger being better, and a commitment to leaving a lighter footprint on the earth. It's a lifestyle that doesn't just challenge the norm — it redefines it. Ghostly Listings The UK property market has its fair share of otherworldly inhabitants and a home with history can often mean a ghostly tale or two. These spectral listings offer more than just four walls and a roof; they come with an ethereal presence, making them a unique segment of the market that's not for the faint-hearted. Take, for example, "The Whispering Willows," a grand Victorian mansion located in the heart of Somerset. Built in the 1800s, it's renowned for its ornate architecture, expansive gardens, and, perhaps most notably, the legend of the "Lady in Grey." The tale goes that she was a former inhabitant who now roams the corridors at twilight, her silvery silhouette glimpsed in the reflection of the original stained-glass windows. The current owners - drawn to the mansion's charm and mystery - report occasional gentle rustling of pages in the library and soft footsteps in the ballroom that stop as abruptly as they start. Or consider "Hawthorn Hideaway," a cosy thatched cottage in Dorset, where the local lore speaks of a benevolent spirit known as "The Gardener." The spirit is said to keep an eye on the grounds, with flowers mysteriously thriving and the scent of old-fashioned roses wafting through the air, even in the dead of winter. The owners delight in these tales, sharing them with guests over fireside chats, adding a layer of mystique to the property’s already considerable character. Homes with ghostly listings attract a particular type of buyer: someone who values the blend of historical charm with a dash of the supernatural. It's not just about acquiring property; it's about embracing the narrative that has been woven into the fabric of the home over many generations. It's for those who appreciate the past's whispers and find romance in the possibility of sharing their living space with a resident from a bygone era. For these buyers, the idea of a ghostly housemate adds a unique allure to their home, making it not just a place to live but a living piece of history. Colourful Streets Imagine stepping out of your front door to a kaleidoscope of colours in every hue imaginable, from deep purples to bright yellows. Vibrant streets are not just a photographer's dream; they're a daily reminder of the joy and creativity that infuses many UK communities. When you wander through Brighton, you might come across streets like Hanover or Kemp Town, where every house stands out with its own unique colour scheme. It's like a festival that never ends, with pastel pinks, ocean blues, and even the occasional glittery silver that makes you think of a disco ball. Over in Notting Hill, it's a similar vibe but with its own twist. You've got the famous Portobello Road where the antique shops and bustling market stalls sit under a canopy of multi-coloured facades. It's not just the vintage treasures that draw the crowd; it's also the backdrop of candy-coloured houses that look good enough to eat. These examples are like little pockets of joy, where the residents have thrown the usual rulebook out of the window and decided to express their zest for life right on their doorsteps. You get this sense that every hue has a story, a reason for being chosen, making the neighbourhood an open book that invites everyone to read. The Garden Shed Revolution The garden shed, that cosy backyard staple traditionally stuffed with spades and cobwebbed bicycles, has evolved into something spectacular. In back gardens across the UK, you'll find these once humble huts reborn as havens of creativity and relaxation. Picture stepping into a shed, only to find instead a sleek home office, decked out with a desk, a comfy chair, and all the tech gadgets you need to conquer the workday. Or imagine a shed that's a sanctuary for the arts, where canvases and paints are as common as lawnmowers used to be. And it doesn't stop at work and art. Some homeowners have taken their sheds to the next level, turning them into mini social hubs. There's a growing trend of 'pub sheds' complete with a well-stocked bar, barstools, and even dartboards to mimic the vibe of a local tavern right in the garden. These DIY pubs have become the perfect spot for a pint and a chat, echoing the communal feel of a real pub but with a personal touch. These transformations showcase the knack for clever use of space and a passion for personalized projects. A shed isn't just a shed anymore; it's a slice of home outside the home, a place where hobbies, work, and a bit of fun come alive! Historical Quirks Owning a house in the UK can mean you're not just purchasing bricks and mortar, but also inheriting a slice of the past, with all its quirks and charms. Imagine owning a property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire that comes with the duty to uphold a tradition dating back to the days of knights and castles. In some parts of the country, there are homes where the annual village fair isn't just a local event; it's a historic obligation, written into the deeds of the house itself. The owner might have to throw open their gates once a year, allowing the community to celebrate on their grounds just as they have for centuries. Then there are properties that share their space with the public in a unique way. Take, for example, a house in a picturesque village, where the garden path isn't just for the homeowner's use. It might be part of an ancient right of way, a track trodden by countless feet over hundreds of years. It’s not unusual for hikers, following a well-worn trail mapped out in history, to wander right past your window or through an archway in your garden wall. Living in such a place is a constant interaction with history. Your dining room might have hosted medieval banquets, or your cellar might have been a sanctuary during civil unrest. Every nook and cranny can hold a whisper of the past, and this blending of private life and public heritage is a unique aspect of owning an historic home in the UK. The UK Property Market is Diverse! The UK property market is as fascinating as the country itself. From tiny homes that challenge our perceptions of space to colourful streets that brighten the dullest days, from ghostly residents with centuries-old stories to garden sheds turned into personal havens – there's always something to surprise. Whether you’re a homeowner, a tenant, or just daydreaming about your future home, these quirks and features add a layer of charm and character to the UK property landscape. So, next time you're thinking about property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire remember – it's not always just about the bricks and mortar; it's about the stories, the creativity, and sometimes, even the ghostly neighbours! If you need help with your property search, call us on 01335 818550 or email stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk.

Following the pandemic there was a significant impact on property trends, with rural areas seeing a huge surge in interest. This is no doubt due to people spending more time working from home and looking for a property with some outdoor space to enjoy. If you’re thinking about getting away from the city and escaping to the countryside, here are 7 tips to help you find your perfect rural property. Dip Your Toe in The Water Before Committing While the relative tranquillity and more laidback lifestyle in the countryside can seem very appealing, if you’ve only lived in major cities then it can come as a huge shock to the system. As a minimum you’re likely to have to travel further for most things, and it’s unlikely you’ll have 24-hour access to groceries for example. Therefore, if you’re able to do so, consider renting for at least 6 months before you buy a property. That way you’ll get a much better feel for what you like and dislike about a rural location, and it will be much easier to move back to the city if you find the change of lifestyle to be too much. Do Your Research It pays to be prepared, so find out as much as you can about the area you’re looking to move to before you commit. As your local property experts for the Ashbourne & Derbyshire area we can help you familiarise yourself with different areas of interest. One thing that can catch people out is the boundaries and shared access that comes with living in a rural area. You may be seeking peace and privacy, only to find that there’s a public footpath crossing through your land, or a shared driveway that’s regularly used by farm vehicles. Just make sure you do your homework on any potential property before you go all in. Get to Know The Locals Living in the country can be very isolating if you don’t know anyone, so it makes sense to have a few connections before you move if you can. Just popping into the local shop or pub and chatting to some of the staff can go a long way to helping you settle in and you’ll be contributing towards the local community too. Having some connections will also be invaluable if you ever need some help in future, such as finding a reliable tradesperson or getting a stray sheep out of the garden! Contact your Local Estate Agent This might seem simple, but it’s definitely a good idea to reach out and let us know what you’re looking for so that we can keep you up to date. As your local agent, we have excellent knowledge of the local areas and can offer invaluable advice with regards to local facilities, schools and amenities. There’s nothing wrong with finding a property through an online website and putting an offer in, but speaking directly to your local estate agent will help you to be better prepared for the reality of moving to a new area. Embrace the Lifestyle One of the main reasons why a lot of people’s rural move goes wrong is because they’re too set in their ways and they fail to adapt. If you are going to move to the country then you’ll need to be prepared for potential issues that you don’t have in major towns and cities, such as fewer convenience shops and takeaways on your doorstep and reduced public transport services. Embracing these lifestyle changes will go a long way towards settling and staying somewhere in the long-term. Be Aware of Potential Extra Costs You will often find that rural properties aren’t connected to mains water and drainage. Instead, you may have a shared septic tank and a private water supply, which may be your sole responsibility, or shared with neighbours. Other utilities such as broadband can be unreliable in extremely rural areas, so if it’s essential to have superfast internet then you may have to pay extra for this too. As with everything, do your research and look into the potential additional costs you may have to face before putting in an offer. Be Flexible If you’re buying in a large town or city then you’ll often be spoilt for choice, so you can find exactly what you want if you look hard enough. When it comes to rural areas though, because there are fewer properties to choose from you may find that some of your ‘must haves’ just aren’t going to be possible. Therefore, you’ll need to either consider a wider area to find your perfect property or come to a compromise on the property itself to ensure you get to live in your perfect area. We 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.

Are you looking to maximize the return on your investment? If so, you're likely to be aware that there are countless methods for boosting rental income in Ashbourne & Derbyshire, but one that is often overlooked is property renovation. If this is something that you have been letting slide, then read on, because we'll be exploring some renovation tips tailored for you in this guide. The Importance of Renovations Taking care of renovations has always been an important part of being a landlord. Not only do they increase the value of your UK rental property and facilitate the charging of higher rent, but a well-renovated property can also do wonders for tenant onboarding and retention. Property viewers are a make-or-break moment for your prospective tenants, and if they're met with a recently renovated rental property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire with modern amenities, this could seal the deal! Whilst renovations require up-front payments that may feel like unnecessary expenditure, it's important to consider their long-term benefit. Not only will you find it easier to onboard new tenants and retain them, but a renovated property will also reduce the likelihood of expensive maintenance costs. Before You Begin Before embarking on any renovation project, it's going to be important for you to be aware of any local regulations and building codes in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Non-compliance can lead to costly fines and delays, so you should always consult with a professional if you're unsure about any aspect of the renovation process. They will also be able to point out any renovations that may be lawfully necessary, which you have perhaps overlooked until now. Ideally, you're going to want to find a quiet 'in-between' period to conduct your renovations - the last thing you want is to miss out on tenants for an entire year, just because you were renovating the property during peak rental season. Plan your projects strategically to ensure a seamless transition between tenants, and if renovations are necessary whilst you already have tenants, transparency and communication are always the best bet. Energy Efficiency: A Wise Investment Let's kick things off with arguably the most relevant renovation motives - energy efficiency. Improving energy efficiency not only attracts eco-conscious tenants but also reduces utility costs, a win-win situation. If your property is rented as fully furnished, this could consist of purchasing more modern and environmentally economical appliances and white goods. However, the best way to tackle energy efficiency is at its roots. For example, insulating your property can greatly help maintain a comfortable temperature and lower heating bills. Alternatively, double-glazed windows and energy-efficient boilers are also great additions that will help your tenant's energy go further. First Impressions The next renovation suggestion is perhaps even more important than energy efficiency - renovating your property's entrance. First impressions count, so don't neglect the exterior of your property - it doesn't matter how modern the interior of your property is, because if the front garden or entrance is an eye sore, it will be a major turn-off for tenants. Thankfully, renovating your front garden or property entrance is usually pretty cheap. Invest a few hours into professional landscaping if you have a front garden. Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door and windows, and generally give your property entrance some TLC. If you're holding house viewings in the winter, don't forget to ensure the entrance is adequately lit, otherwise, your prospective tenants won't be able to see your hard work! Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades Next up is your property's kitchen and bathroom; the kitchen is often the focal point of any home, and this will be no different for your rental property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. A well-designed, functional kitchen can greatly appeal to prospective tenants, so you should consider upgrading kitchen cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Stick to timeless and durable materials to ensure longevity and neutral colour schemes work best as they appeal to a wide range of tastes. Your property's bathrooms are similarly important. A modern and clean bathroom can make a huge difference to your tenant's viewing experience, and if it has been properly renovated, this will certainly save you money from plumbing maintenance. Update fixtures, tiles, and invest some cash into a reliable plumber, and don't forget to ensure that ventilation is in order. All of this costs money, but trust us - it will be worth it in the long term! Flooring and Lighting Two renovation areas that are commonly neglected by landlords are flooring and lighting. Flooring can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your rental property in a subtle yet powerful way. Hardwood floors are a popular choice for their durability and timeless appeal. If you're on a budget, quality laminate flooring can be a suitable alternative, but don't cheap out too much, as a flooring renovation could last you a decade! Arguably even more important is lighting - nothing distracts potential tenants from an otherwise excellent property like poor lighting. Ensuring that your property is adequately lit can greatly transform spaces, and can give you a serious competitive edge to the tendency for landlords to skimp on bulbs and lampshades. Thankfully, it's not expensive to illuminate your property, so there's no excuse to miss out on this renovation opportunity. Marketing Your Renovated Property This may sound hard to believe, but many landlords renovate their properties, only to continue advertising their property in their previous condition - what a waste of money and effort! Once your property is renovated and ready for tenants, it's essential to contact the letting agent or property management company in Ashbourne & Derbyshire you use and ensure that all of the information and photographs are updated to reflect the property's renovations. Professional photographs and a well-crafted listing description can go a long way in attracting potential renters and can make or break whether they decide to book a property viewing or not. Make sure you've highlighted any recently renovated features, emphasize the energy efficiency of the property, and don't be afraid to get help from a professional photographer or copywriter to help your listing stand out! Finally Property renovation UK-wide is undeniably a savvy strategy for UK landlords looking to maximize their ROI. From kitchen and bathroom upgrades to enhancing kerb appeal and improving energy efficiency, there are various ways to add value to your rental property in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Just remember to budget wisely, stay compliant with regulations, and market your renovated property effectively, and your short-term investment will no doubt pay off for many years to come. Happy renovating! Bennet Samways are your local letting agents in Ashbourne & Derbyshire. Call us on 01335 818550 or email stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk to find out how we can help you market your newly renovated property.

Conservatories have their downsides, but they also have many benefits. Even though these home extensions have been around for centuries, they are still considered a modern-day renovation for many homeowners. In this article, we'll provide our view on what the pros and cons are of conservatories to help you decide whether installing one is worth it for you. Pros of Getting a Conservatory Added Living Space Most people could do with more living space in their homes. Whether that's a private space to read, a dinner table to host the whole family, an office area, or just somewhere to store your extra furnishings. A conservatory is a great way to boost your living space and create a tranquil area of your home that feels closer to nature. Great Value for Money Home extensions are popular – particularly among growing families to boost living space. When choosing between an extension and a conservatory, conservatories are almost always the more cost-effective option. With a conservatory, you can extend your home to the same square meterage that an extension would provide for half the price. Increased Property Value An extension of any kind can increase the value of your property – conservatories included. Since these renovations provide a warm space to relax in summer, they can be highly desirable to buyers. If you opt for a tiled roof instead of traditional panels, you could see even more of a boost in value. Cons of Getting a Conservatory Noise During Rainfall When it starts to rain, conservatories can be noisy. Depending on which type of roof you have, heavy rainfall can be quite a disruption to your home environment. While tiled roofs shouldn't be too much of an issue, a uPVC roof can be – which is particularly important to consider if you plan on using your conservatory as a dining room. Colder in Winter Conservatories are well-known for becoming gorgeous sunrooms during the warmer months. However, traditional conservatories with uPVC panelled roofs can drop in temperature during winter. While you can still use them, it's much colder and heating the area can be expensive because of the lack of insulation. If this doesn't sound ideal, you can opt for a conservatory with a tiled roof instead. Typically, these roofs are fully insulated, making it comfortable to lounge in all year round. Plus, you can opt for skylights and panoramic windows with a tiled roof, so it can still feel like a sunroom. Are You Renovating Your Ashbourne & Derbyshire Home? Renovating your home can be an excellent opportunity to boost your resale value. If you're making home improvements to your Ashbourne & Derbyshire home or getting ready to sell, our friendly team of estate agents at Bennet Samways would love to talk. We can offer advice on the best home renovations to boost resale value in Ashbourne & Derbyshire and help you get ready to put your home on the market. Give us a call today to learn more at 01335 818550 or send us an email at stuart@bennetsamways.co.uk to arrange a call back.