The Blog

Here in the Ashbourne Derbyshire Dales, we are seeing this extraordinarily busy market continue. As we achieve amazing things with the vaccination programme in the UK, and have started to witness the easing of restrictions, and the gradual emergence from lockdown it cannot be ignored that the confidence in the housing market is astonishing. The are several reasons for such a good housing market in our opinion: 1. People who were using Brexit as an excuse not to move had started to surface just before lockdown. 2020 had started with such promise and the market felt like it had a real buzz. It was anticipated this was going to a busy year, but Covid put a stop to this, with the lockdown back in March 2020. 2. Lifestyle changes from the lockdowns. People’s minds have shifted and are now seeing the importance of country life. 3. Bigger gardens now wanted and, as a keen gardener myself this brings me a warm glow. Buyers are now actually seeing the importance of outdoor space. It’s so good for our souls and wellbeing. 4. Home working has become much more normal, so there is less pressure to be living where they work. Buyers are asking much more now for a study when registering to find their next home. 5. A shift from cities and large towns to the countryside. People’s mind-sets are changing, and for some, are now looking to move out of the ‘hustle and bustle’ of urban life. 6. Stamp Duty has been given a holiday until June and up to £500k. At £500k that is a saving of £15k. Also properties up to £250,000 exempt until the end of September. I have seen examples on a couple of properties where we have sold the exact same property in local villages for 8% - 10% in the past year. Crazy times. I’m glad that I live here in the Derbyshire Dales. What a time to start a new estate agency and give people a better moving experience in the Ashbourne market.

What makes NAEA Propertymark Protected estate agents different? Many people just assume that all agents are not only regulated but are all licensed. There is sadly NO mandatory regulation of estate agents. The idea that 'anyone can become an estate agent' is not far from the truth. Our agency joined the NAEA Propertymark voluntarily to demonstrate its transparency to ensure we are at the forefront of developments in the industry and to provide the very best moving experience to you – we have nothing to hide! By using a NAEA Propertymark estate agent you are guaranteed to be consulting with a professional agent who can give you up-to-date advice and guidance. In summary, there are four key factors to offer in becoming a licensed estate agent: Integrity - Experienced and trained professionals who abide by a nationally recognised Code of Practice. Complaints Procedure - Ruling on complaints through independent ombudsman services and regulated by Propertymark Peace Of Mind - They hold all the correct insurance and protection to give you peace of mind through your move. Compliant - Registered with HMRC to ensure compliance with money laundering regulations. NAEA Propertymark estate agents don’t