West Sussex Property Blog

Time to move...

Posted on 8 March 2024 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, our MD looks at the property market this spring, and suggests if you want to move there is no time like the present.

I am likely to say that it is a question, as a known estate agent, we are asked again and again, I have been in the property world since I was 18 years old and nearing 40 years later, if I had a pound for every time I was asked that question I would be on a yacht in the Carribean not giving a jot about property values! Read more here...

Spot the difference...

Posted on 3 August 2023 by Neil Moore

The BBC will broadcast a new reality show called Crazy Rich Agents on BBC2 at 9pm, Sunday 6th August. The series is designed to focus on high-end estate agency in the UK and the producers aim to showcase a more American way of selling and buying properties – a high pressure, high energy and high risk way. Needless to say, our personnel treat properties as people’s much loved and valuable homes not as commodities but. That is just one of the differences between a reality show and real life - read more here...

Be a Medal Winner

Posted on 6 June 2023 by Neil Moore

Since the start of the pandemic, the importance of outdoor space has been rising in the minds of home buyers, whether it is for the horticulturally minded or for those who demand a deck with room for eating, relaxing and barbecuing. Outdoor entertaining in our warming climate is very much in.

Do you need a mortgage for your property purchase?

Posted on 7 March 2023 by Neil Moore

According to Horsham Mortgage Centre, the present uncertainty around mortgage rates and the general economic outlook has understandably caused some nervousness amongst buyers and homeowners. With inflation around 10%, interest rates have had to increase, pushing up mortgage costs. But over the last month, rates are starting to come down and a fixed rate mortgage from 3.9% can now be secured.

If Wishes Were Sales

Posted on 4 January 2023 by Neil Moore

Good estate agents are doers by nature, training and experience. But they can’t do it alone, they need their clients’ support and agreement. Read more here.

The A to D of the Property Market

Posted on 6 October 2022 by Neil Moore

When is the best time to buy or sell a property? Within the constraints of affordability it should be when it is most suitable for us and our families.

Tribute to Guy Leonard

Posted on 26 September 2022 by Neil Moore

We were very sad to hear that Guy Leonard, the founder of GL & Co, passed away last week. Guy had been battling cancer for many years and for a long time we thought that he really was getting the better of it but sadly that was not the case.

Does your Estate Agent have a Hot Box...?

Posted on 6 September 2022 by Neil Moore

When you’re looking for someone to sell your home research your local Estate Agent - read reviews, talk to neighbours and most importantly, go in and talk to the agents themselves. Find out what they think your property is worth and why. But also discover if their head is a hot box - the GL team's certainly is!

One for the road

Posted on 3 August 2022 by Neil Moore

The post-pandemic party may be essentially over, but for sellers with a great estate agent, good housekeeping and accurate pricing there is still time for one for the road.

The relationship between GDP growth rates and house price growth, goes back to the 1980's

Posted on 21 June 2022 by Neil Moore

There is a very strong relationship between GDP growth rates and house price growth – this relationship stretches all the way back to the early 1980s.

To sit on the fence or not to sit on the fence....

Posted on 4 May 2022 by Neil Moore

There was a time when spring was the perfect season to put one’s property on the market.....So, is spring 2022 an excellent time to sell?

Spring in to Action

Posted on 5 April 2022 by Neil Moore

Forget a leisurely, late evening, glass-in-hand, browse through your preferred property portal. It is not going to help very much this Spring. Because by the time a property gets onto a portal nowadays, the early bird will have already caught its worm, so spring in to action now!

Predicting the present

Posted on 13 January 2022 by Neil Moore

As we stride into 2022, newspapers and social media are awash with industry experts’ property market predictions. But experienced estate agents know that it is the present they have to address. The vast majority of home buyers and sellers are dealing with the now.

Ode to Joy

Posted on 7 December 2021 by Neil Moore

The property market too has seen enormous changes in the past few years, and it will continue to do so as it steadily moves from white hot, Covid-affected panic buying to a more considered mood in the New Year.

The Property Cycle

Posted on 1 September 2021 by Neil Moore

Lots of buyers and sellers are currently asking us, “Where are we?”. What they mean is, now that the stamp duty holiday is over, where are we in the property cycle? The property cycle can be looked at as a clock...

Winning Gold in the Property Olympics

Posted on 11 August 2021 by Neil Moore

The property market has some interesting parallels with the Olympic Games. Hand-in-hand with glorious success can come bitter disappointment when things go unexpectedly wrong. So, like any great Olympian, it’s best to concentrate fully on things one can control.

A Year on...

Posted on 22 April 2021 by Neil Moore

Covid19 has changed many things in our lives. It has altered our outlook, our expectations and our ambitions, and it has changed the way we live or want to live. Over the past year we have experienced this in an evolving list of property buyers’ aspirations. Oh, the usual essentials are still there – right price, enough room and attractive location – but now a secondary list of important requirements has appeared as buyers seek to change their lifestyles in the light of the pandemic. read more and let us know what's on your list..

Keep The Home Fires Burning

Posted on 6 March 2021 by Neil Moore

In his spring 2021 Budget the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, has chosen to keep the fire under the property market well and truly alight. The UK is now experiencing a property buying demand reminiscent of a 1970s or 1980s type boom. We know there’s a property boom when adverse events that might otherwise have knocked the market off course fail to do so. Read more...

The Roadmap to ending lockdown in England

Posted on 26 February 2021 by Neil Moore

The positive news and the relaxation in guidelines will affect all of us in many ways, but if you still have concerns over moving, we can hopefully answer some of them in our blog. And if we don't answer yours, just pick up the phone and speak to a member of our team, who can help you map out your road to a new property!

Exodus - from City to Countryside

Posted on 2 February 2021 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, Managing Director of GL&Co looks ahead to a busy spring in the property market. In the wake of Covid 19 the UK experienced an exodus. This was the evacuation of urban dwellers to the land of milk and honey – the countryside. But will this movement last?

Happy 2021

Posted on 5 January 2021 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD of GL & Co reviews a topsy turvy year in the property market and looks ahead with optimism to 2021. In the property market, 2021 will be a far cry from 2020. 2021 will be a time of renewal and fresh opportunities. Buying a property is not about a tax advantage. It is about new beginnings, about building a home for one’s self or family and it is about investing in the future...

Just time for a quickie

Posted on 1 December 2020 by Neil Moore

Just Time for a Quickie Neil Moore gives some important advice for all those rushing to buy or sell a property by 31st March next year. When time is short, there’s always a quickie. A quick drink with friends or even a quick divorce can be very satisfying. But now another quickie has entered our lives. Completing a property sale or purchase before the end of March next year could be worth a great deal of money in Covid19, stamp duty exemptions.

Lessons Learned

Posted on 4 November 2020 by Neil Moore

As the second wave of Covid19 affects lives, Neil Moore, MD of GL&Co looks at what it augurs for the property market. One thing that has proved to be resistant to Covid19 is the property market, which has if anything fed off the pandemic.

Property Market Update

Posted on 30 October 2020 by Neil Moore

Current state of the property and rental market - update from Neil Moore, MD GL&Co

Loo rolls and other flying objects

Posted on 1 October 2020 by Neil Moore

So many people are asking us about the property market at the moment. To provide some perspective, we often answer the question with a question. We ask, “Do you remember back in March, how loo rolls became difficult to find as they were flying off supermarket shelves?” “It would be hard to forget,” most people reply. So we say, “That’s what’s happened to property: houses are flying off our books.”

The New Normal

Posted on 1 July 2020 by Neil Moore

Now that buyers are freed from lockdown, will they revert to their old viewing ways? It is doubtful.

Caveat Venditor

Posted on 17 June 2020 by Neil Moore

We take a look at the impact national and global events might have on a resurgent UK property market towards the end of the year.

Gazunderhand

Posted on 10 June 2020 by Neil Moore

When buying a property AC – after Covid19 - just as at any other time, caveat emptor – let the buyer beware.

Playing the Ball

Posted on 19 May 2020 by Neil Moore

When we are back in the post-lockdown world, the press and various industry pundits will comment on the property market. Some will say that property prices will fall. Some will say there won’t be enough buyers or sellers. Some will try and talk the market up, and some will talk the market down.

Realism is our Vaccine

Posted on 19 May 2020 by Neil Moore

As we gradually emerge from lockdown the first question clients are asking us is how will the coronavirus influence property prices?

Adding £££s

Posted on 12 May 2020 by Neil Moore

So, you have spruced up the front of your property - having the exterior looking at its best is vital, as it persuades people to look at the interior. But now you don’t want to let viewers down when they choose to look inside....

Getting in Gear

Posted on 12 May 2020 by Neil Moore

Working through the pandemic is like riding a bike up a very steep hill. We have had to change gear. We will probably change gear again before this crisis is over. But one thing is very certain; we will be in the right gear when it’s all over.

The Value of Home

Posted on 24 April 2020 by Neil Moore

When we are over this emergency we will be here to understand your property needs and offer suitable and attractive solutions, because if there is one thing we do know a great deal about, it is the value of home. Our needs for what a home gives us will change, but it will not alter the local property market.

How can we help during these uncertain times in our community

Posted on 16 April 2020 by Neil Moore

In these uncertain times we are sure of two things: we know how strong, supportive, and resilient our community is, and we are as confident about the property market now, as we were before we ever heard of COVID-19. Everyone needs somewhere to live, and our area is still the most wonderful place to reside, work and play....

Screen Appeal

Posted on 15 April 2020 by Neil Moore

Here at GL& Co we can advise you how to make your property look the best it can on screen for when that critical buyer comes calling online. We have blogs, newsletters and are at the end of the phone (or video call!) to give advice and tips to get your property looking its best and ready to sell!

Dear Chancellor....

Posted on 4 March 2020 by Neil Moore

On the 11th of March, Budget Day, all eyes will be on our new Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP. Neil Moore looks ahead to the March Budget. The year has started well in the property market, but what could the Chancellor do to really get things moving?

Do you believe in Santa?

Posted on 3 October 2019 by Neil Moore

Anticipation will also be rising for those hoping to move into a new home by Christmas. Historically this is a key date in the home moving calendar. It is an emotional date, a day that suggests a new start and time spent with loved ones in new surroundings - full of familiar things that make a home.

Let's D E A L

Posted on 5 July 2019 by Neil Moore

Estate agents or online-only wannabes offer cut-price commission rates to tempt sellers, and the press bombards the public with alarming commentary on falling prices, the Brexit effect and the state of the market in central London. But selling a home still only boils down to two questions - how much can I get and how quickly can I get it?

The Art of Negotiation from your local Estate Agent

Posted on 6 June 2019 by Neil Moore

Some people are good at negotiating. Some people, it turns out, aren't. Some people hold all the cards and know it. Some people hold weak hands and don't know it. So here are two important elements - prompted by ongoing political events - to think about when negotiating for your next home.

Avoiding the Feeble

Posted on 5 April 2019 by Neil Moore

We find that there is not only life in the property market this spring, but also some wonderful opportunities. If you are selling now, when availability of stock is low, please choose your estate agent wisely. It is such an important choice. Inexperienced agents offering low fees might be too feeble for this market. Avoid feeble agents like the plague and make sure you chose a strong firm with the people, experience and track record to achieve the best sale for you.

Reading the Market...

Posted on 5 March 2019 by Neil Moore

We reflect on a property market affected by Brexit and uncertainty, but showing some clear signs of resilience.

More appreciation for Estate Agents

Posted on 21 February 2019 by Neil Moore

It seems that new data from Zoopla is showing a surge in appreciation for Estate Agents and acknowledging their expertise and service.

Cutting through the jargon of a Homebuyers report

Posted on 14 February 2019 by Neil Moore

Paperwork and jargon come hand in hand when buying or selling property and some of it is easier to decipher than others! One of the documents is the HomeBuyer Report, which is basically a survey detailing the state of the property you are about to buy. The cost of having one of these is around £400, but can save you money in the long run and some use it as a tool for further negotiations.

Love Is All You Need

Posted on 5 February 2019 by Neil Moore

We take a romantic look at the property market this February.

Top Tips to help you sell quicker!

Posted on 31 January 2019 by Neil Moore

House buying and selling can be one of life's stresses, so you want it to be as quick a process as possible. So being prepared and taking some sensible actions to get your home looking its best, can substantially reduce a possible lengthy house sale.

What a no deal Brexit may look like for the Property Market

Posted on 24 January 2019 by Neil Moore

Encouragingly, despite Brexit uncertainty, the long-term outlook for the real estate sector remains positive...

Some positive trends for 2019, despite Brexit.

Posted on 18 January 2019 by Neil Moore

Despite uncertainty across all markets, there seems to be, according to this very interesting OnTheMarket.com article, some positivity surrounding the housing market, during Brexit year.

To Brexit and Beyond

Posted on 10 January 2019 by Neil Moore

If you are thinking about moving in 2019 you have choices. Consider them wisely. But also recognise that this is an extraordinary time. Nothing is certain. Don't bank on the killer sale. Do aim for a great purchase. Be realistic. Price, price, price is as important as location, location, location. Don't put your biggest asset in the hands of the inexperienced.

Annual house price growth holds steady

Posted on 12 December 2018 by Neil Moore

Considering the pressures in the current UK's political and economic climate, it is good to read a positive article in Property Reporter. It seems that Nationwide's recent analysis has shown that the housing market is bearing up.

Has the housing market escaped the Brexit uncertainty?

Posted on 29 November 2018 by Neil Moore

None of us have a crystal ball to look in to the housing market future surrounding Brexit, but it seems that, according to a recent index, during the 2 and a half years since the referendum, there seems to have been limited impact on the housing market.

Figures point to First Time Buyers increase market share

Posted on 15 November 2018 by Neil Moore

It seems that FTB's are showing no signs of slowing down, with the help of competitive mortgage rates being one of the main reasons.

High street Estate Agents can achieve more for you...

Posted on 8 November 2018 by Neil Moore

The view from the GL Offices remains positive, especially when we look at a recent article from Property Industry Eye showing research done by The Advisory - the independent customer advice group for house sellers. This tells us that high street agents achieve more viewings, more offers, and in almost three-quarters of cases a 5% better price than online-only firms.

A Friend in the Business

Posted on 2 November 2018 by Neil Moore

We take a look ahead at the 2018 autumn/winter property market in the final months of the pre-Brexit period.

First Impressions Count!

Posted on 25 October 2018 by Neil Moore

The front of your house is the first think that potential buyers will see when they do a drive by or come for the viewing appointment. Their first impression will be very important to both them and you, so you should make the most of this important aspect of your property.

What's happening in the Private Rental Sector...?

Posted on 25 October 2018 by Neil Moore

The latest news from ARLA and other property industry experts and articles, is that average rent is up year on year, in virtually all parts of England and Wales, with the returns to landlords remaining competitive.

What designs are trending, for your home in 2019

Posted on 19 October 2018 by Neil Moore

Following the recent design shows in London and Paris it seems there are some new design trends for your home coming this season!

Home Sweet (smelling) Home!

Posted on 11 October 2018 by Neil Moore

It seems that prospective buyers are becoming more particular than ever, so a lick of paint is no longer enough to tempt buyers to purchase your home - you need to consider how to make it smell appealing!

Half Term & Halloween with National Trust in Sussex!

Posted on 11 October 2018 by Neil Moore

With October Half Term just around the corner and Halloween soon to be upon us, this is the best time to get out in the countryside and enjoy the Autumn colours.

Should you stay or should you go?

Posted on 3 October 2018 by Neil Moore

That is the question some property owners are asking themselves with Brexit in mind. Is it right or wrong to sell before Brexit or after Brexit? It seems there is no right or wrong answer according to a very interesting article in the Guardian.

Premium renters pay for furnished properties

Posted on 27 September 2018 by Neil Moore

An ARLA article makes interesting reading if you are pondering the question furnished or unfurnished...?

Technology that can make your home 'greener'

Posted on 26 September 2018 by Neil Moore

What springs to mind when considering how to make your home 'greener'...solar panels, recycling gadgets?? According to this Property Reporter article, technology is transforming the way we can make our homes greener than ever and not all the ideas are for the rich or fanatical.

Do we go with logic or love when buying a home?

Posted on 21 September 2018 by Neil Moore

It seems that one in two people buy their new home after just one viewing! According to figures, 53% of people took only one visit, with another 25% only needing two, before they made their property purchase.

Tips for baby proofing your new home!

Posted on 19 September 2018 by Neil Moore

More and more young families are able to buy property, with Help to Buy schemes etc, so Barratt homes have come up with their top tips to ensure your property is safe when you move in.

Latest data suggests property transactions hit a 2 year high

Posted on 17 September 2018 by Neil Moore

Recent data has revealed that house prices have fallen but new buyer demand is up year on year.

How do you choose the best Estate Agent for you

Posted on 12 September 2018 by Neil Moore

You're considering putting your property up for sale, you want the best possible price but you also want to get your property sold. The prices and services vary from Estate Agent to Estate Agent, so how do you ensure you choose the right one for you and your property sale or property purchase even.

Do your garden buildings need planning permission?

Posted on 10 September 2018 by Neil Moore

We have all spent a considerable amount of time in our gardens this year but have you ever considered the buildings in your garden and whether any planning permission or restrictions should be considered.

We look at the positives in the Autumn property market

Posted on 3 September 2018 by Neil Moore

As we look forward to the autumn season in the 2018 property market the naysayers may well be citing Brexit as reason enough not to make a house move. They may say there is too much uncertainty. They may have would-be movers, wait.

Londoners are still on the move out of the City

Posted on 3 September 2018 by Neil Moore

According to an interesting article in Property Industry Eye, there has been a record number leaving the Capital to move out to cheaper areas of the Country. With most of these moving to the South East of England, we are perfectly placed to benefit!

Conveyancing explained

Posted on 29 August 2018 by Neil Moore

Property jargon can be confusing, so a recent onthemarket.com article concentrating on Conveyancing, what it means and how it happens, makes for some very interesting reading. It goes some way to explaining this important area of your solictors work.

Tips for First Time Buyers

Posted on 28 August 2018 by Neil Moore

Purchasing your first home is a massive commitment and one that needs careful consideration and thought, along with support and advice from your local Estate Agent.

To be in your new home by Christmas - act now!

Posted on 23 August 2018 by Neil Moore

According to the House Price Index and an article on Rightmove, if you want to be in by Christmas, you need to act now!

People still see a value in high street Estate Agents

Posted on 23 August 2018 by Neil Moore

More than half of buyers and sellers still want face to face, high street Estate Agents to talk to and support them with the sale/purchase of a property, according to a recent survey.

Now the heatwave is going, is now the best time to sell?

Posted on 15 August 2018 by Neil Moore

Putting your property on now whilst stock levels are lower, could pay dividends....according to an article in Property Reporter.

Seasonal repairs are a must - tips for Landlords

Posted on 13 August 2018 by Neil Moore

We have seen temperatures soaring and no doubt in a few months time we will see them tumble to near freezing, so what repairs should Landlords be considering following the heatwave and to get ready for the Winter?

The Art of Negotiation - 5

Posted on 7 August 2018 by Neil Moore

The property deal is agreed but not finalised, there is a willing buyer and a willing seller. Both sides have argued their points, compromised a bit, decided on a price and appointed solicitors. The buyer has arranged finance, and a surveyor. What could possibly go wrong?

First Time Buyers have saved money since stamp duty cut

Posted on 7 August 2018 by Neil Moore

According to figures recently released by the Government, First Time Buyers have saved millions of pounds since the stamp duty cuts last year.

20 Things that put off potential buyers!

Posted on 26 July 2018 by Neil Moore

According to a recent NAEA article a survey has told us that, damp, bad smells, poor maintenance and broadband blackspots are amongst the top 20 things that put off home buyers and can be potential deal breakers!

The heatwave prompts us to spend more on our gardens

Posted on 25 July 2018 by Neil Moore

We are in the midst of what is probably the best summer in decades, with temperatures soaring and what better way to spend time, than in your garden! A lovely looking outdoor space, whatever the size, is always appealing to buyers, so if you can spend some time and money on it whilst the sun is out, we here at GL, would highly recommend it, especially if you are considering a sale in the future.

The rise in first time buyers!

Posted on 17 July 2018 by Neil Moore

According to an article in the Guardian the number of new home owners rose in May this year. In fact there was an 8.1 % increase in first time mortgages over the same time last year.

Could you spot Japanese Knotweed in your garden?

Posted on 11 July 2018 by Neil Moore

You may be aware of the damage that Japanese Knotweed can do, but could you identify it in your garden...?

How long is too long when it comes to the timeline of buying a home?

Posted on 11 July 2018 by Neil Moore

Should it be 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months? In an ideal world a freehold sale should be 6 weeks and a leasehold sale of around 8-10 weeks - but this isn't always happening.

Where to retire to when you don't want to slow down!

Posted on 4 July 2018 by Neil Moore

The image of those retiring with little to do other than playing bridge and chatting to fellow retirees over tea in 'the lounge' of their retirement home, lingers on with some, but you'd be wrong!

A Spanner in the Works

Posted on 2 July 2018 by Neil Moore

Ask anyone who is putting their property on the market about how long the legal side of things could take once they find a buyer and most will say about eleven weeks. Oh, would that it were only eleven weeks!

World Cup Footballers Homes!

Posted on 28 June 2018 by Neil Moore

We are all in the grip of World Cup fever, but some of you may be wondering where these players live when they're not training or playing matches around the world..

The desire to own your own home is still strong.

Posted on 28 June 2018 by Neil Moore

In a recent article from Property Reporter it seems that the desire, of young people, is still strong when it comes to striving to own their own home.

Governments new 'How To' guides for landlords and tenants

Posted on 28 June 2018 by Neil Moore

This week the Government launched some new 'How to' guides for tenants and landlords, to help them understand their rights and responsibilities.

Top reasons for moving house this summer

Posted on 21 June 2018 by Neil Moore

According to research it seems that us Brits are seven times more likely to be moving home because of a change of job rather than to make a quick buck from the housing market...

New asking prices, UP...

Posted on 18 June 2018 by Neil Moore

According to a recent article and figures from Rightmove, asking prices have gone up again and are now averaging £309,439.

What later life home buyers should be thinking about

Posted on 11 June 2018 by Neil Moore

Buying a property that suits you in your 60s and 70s, that will continue to meet your needs in the years beyond, is a challenge that is being faced by more and more buyers as the baby boomers come of a certain age.

The thorny issue of gardening in rented properties

Posted on 11 June 2018 by Neil Moore

With summer just around the corner, and the weather finally taking a turn for the better, the attentions of tenants and landlords begin to turn to the garden to make the most of the sunshine. But be aware, gardening can be a thorny issue when it comes to deposit disputes, says Michael Hill, an adjudicator with Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

These figures show how important flats are to the rental market

Posted on 6 June 2018 by Neil Moore

The Nationwide has bucked the trend of many industry organisations by insisting that the private rental market is still in good shape, despite a raft of challenges being thrown up by government.

The Art of Negotiation - with the help of a local Estate Agent

Posted on 4 June 2018 by Neil Moore

There is a time in the course of a negotiation when the wheels sometimes come close to falling off.

Average pensioner earns £7k a year from their home

Posted on 4 June 2018 by Neil Moore

New data and analysis from Key Retirement has revealed that on average, Great Britain's pensioners have gained £159k in the 23 years they have owned their home.

Bank of Mum and Dad to lend £5.7bn this year

Posted on 31 May 2018 by Neil Moore

According to Property Reporter, the latest data and analysis from Legal & General and Cebr, has shown that parental help equating to an eye-watering £5.7bn will be needed for quarter of housing transactions during this year.

UK Finance data on April mortgage lending rise...

Posted on 25 May 2018 by Neil Moore

Gross mortgage lending rose by 13.3% annually to £20.4bn in April, driven by strong remortgaging figures, according to the latest UK Finance data.

Come and talk to the experts

Posted on 22 May 2018 by Neil Moore

At GL&CO Estate Agents we’re proud and have worked hard to become market leader in your area, want to know how we did it?

Popularity of cash back mortgages on the rise...

Posted on 22 May 2018 by Neil Moore

Popularity of cash back mortgages on the rise... According to an article on Property Reporter, the latest data from Moneyfacts has shown that the popularity of mortgage cashback offers continues to grow, with both the number of deals and average cashback amount both seeing increases.

Landlords can make over £160,000 profit from buy-to-let

Posted on 15 May 2018 by Neil Moore

Landlords may be feeling the pressure of the Government’s recent buy-to-let tax clampdown, but research suggests there is still plenty of money to be made over the long term.

Year-on-year house prices up 1.2% according to latest data

Posted on 14 May 2018 by Neil Moore

Year-on-year house prices up 1.2% according to latest data

Think tank proposes giving all 25-year-olds £10k to get on the property ladder

Posted on 9 May 2018 by Neil Moore

Think tank proposes giving all 25-year-olds £10k to get on the property ladder

House price predictions explained...

Posted on 1 May 2018 by Neil Moore

Reviewing the differences between house price reports from national companies and why it's good to also seek local advice

12 buyers chasing every property as spring demand outpaces supply

Posted on 30 April 2018 by Neil Moore

A blog from an article about the amount of buyers after each property

UK Buy to Let very much alive

Posted on 24 April 2018 by Neil Moore

A year since the government's tax and mortgage relief changes came into effect, what impact have they had on UK landlords who placed leverage on their property investments?

Lets allowing Pets - homes for the future!

Posted on 24 April 2018 by Neil Moore

Rental accommodation, and the profile of those who live in it, is undergoing a fundamental change in the UK. Once shunned by private landlords, pets are increasingly being welcomed into rental homes, with contemporary developments even making considerations for them as part of their design.

Preparing your Property for the Market

Posted on 19 April 2018 by Neil Moore

A guide and top tips for preparing your home to make it look the best for prospective buyers.

Bottoms Up! We take a look at what and who is driving the property market this spring.

Posted on 12 April 2018 by Neil Moore

An article discussing who drives the property market at the moment - first time buyers or wealthy buyers.

Lucky Friday the 13th

Posted on 12 April 2018 by Neil Moore

An article talking about Friday the 13th not being surpertitious for moving house

Feature your property in our London Showcase

Posted on 28 March 2018 by Neil Moore

The number of Londoners now buying outside the capital is at an all-time high. Statistics have shown that 42% of sellers leaving prime areas of London for a home elsewhere in the UK, relocation to the Home Counties remains the most popular choice.

How an Estate Agent should market your property

Posted on 26 March 2018 by Neil Moore

With the property market more competitive than ever and no shortage of stock coming to the market, especially in West Sussex, how your property is taken to the market can have a huge impact in not only a sale being achieved, but the price in which is secured too.

How Important is the School catchment area when buying a house....?

Posted on 20 March 2018 by Neil Moore

A blog talking about how important the school catchment area is when buying and selling a house.

News from our Managers

Posted on 15 March 2018 by Neil Moore

Welcome to the GL & Co blog, where we write on a regular basis to keep every reader abreast of what is going on in the property market in West Sussex. We like to include thoughts and comments from our managers and staff, based in the 3 GL & Co offices in Storrington, Horsham and Pulborough. Craig, the manager of our Storrington office, gave us his thoughts earlier this week....

The Government are damaging the private rented sector, is their policy short sighted?

Posted on 12 March 2018 by Neil Moore

The Government are damaging the private rented sector, is their policy short sighted? There are more warning signs that the assault on landlords is adversely affecting the private rented sector.

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

Posted on 5 March 2018 by Neil Moore

Markets are forever in flux. That is their nature. So our handling of them must be flexible too. In the stock market we can buy, hold or sell depending on conditions. In a fruit and vegetable market we can buy the freshest produce early in the morning at the full price, or at the end of the day we can purchase what no one else has bought at a cheaper rate.

First Time Buyers at record high for over 10 years

Posted on 20 February 2018 by Neil Moore

If you are starting to consider getting on to the property ladder for the first time, according to recent figures from UK Finance, you are one of many. It seems that there were 365,000 first time buyers in the UK last year, with an average age of 30 years old and an annual household income of £41,000 (individual or joint).

The Early Bird

Posted on 13 February 2018 by Neil Moore

With 2018 in full swing our Horsham office has been incredibly busy listing some fabulous homes across the area. With applicant register levels also increasing, Tim Cattini, Manager of the Horsham Office, is expecting a busy first quarter with offers already coming in from motivated buyers looking to move before the Easter period.

Real estate agents sell your home on a No Sale No fee basis.

Posted on 7 February 2018 by Neil Moore

Radio 5 have been looking at the difference between online and traditional estate agents, Neil Moore explores the issues....

Reading Between The Lines

Posted on 5 February 2018 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, looks at press reporting on the current property market and finds that there is more going on than the papers would have us believe. The press always have lots to say about the property market. But let’s take a look at what they aren’t saying.

The Art of Negotiation Phase Three

Posted on 4 January 2018 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, explains the all-important third phase in a property negotiation. Most, if not all, property negotiations run on similar lines. The first phase is the easy and fun bit. Both sides get to shout at each other, dig their heels in, complain how unreasonable the other side is being, bang the table and generally try to show who is boss – who is the alpha negotiator.

The December Property Market

Posted on 6 December 2017 by Neil Moore

A round of what's happening across the Sussex property market with updates from our Managers in Horsham, Storrington and Pulborough and our lettings team.

Stamp Duty Changes in the Budget

Posted on 23 November 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, Managing Director at GL & Co Estate Agents, comments on the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s autumn budget and how it affects the property market.

Your local property market update

Posted on 15 November 2017 by Neil Moore

Looking at the current property market, Craig Bellas, Manager of our Storrington Office has noted the usual mixed messages coming from various media resources in relation to house prices. He has commented on this saying, ‘The truth of the matter, at least in West Sussex, is there is always demand for good houses in desirable areas.’

The Route To Success

Posted on 13 November 2017 by Neil Moore

GL & Co Estate Agents are celebrating winning a prestigious award for their charity fund raising at the recent Mayfair Group annual conference and dinner.

What’s happening in the Sussex property market?

Posted on 31 October 2017 by Neil Moore

The managers from each of our Sussex offices look at what's happening locally with buying, selling and letting homes across the area with a weekly round up.

The view from the GL & Co Offices

Posted on 18 October 2017 by Neil Moore

What's the local property market up to at the moment? Our managers from each of our Sussex offices look at what's happening locally with buying, selling and letting homes across the area.

The Art of Negotiation

Posted on 2 October 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, sees yet more similarities between the Brexit talks and property negotiation. Every negotiation begins with conflict of some sort - different points of view where both sides have strong and seemingly entrenched initial opinions about what each wants. This is the argument stage. But negotiations can't proceed if both parties don't move from those entrenched positions. Deadlock has to be broken otherwise neither party can proceed to any sort of end, never mind an agreeable one. This means one side has to take the plunge and be the first to make a proposal - to show that they are prepared to soften on their original stated position. This is not weakness. It is strength. It is clever. It is part of the negotiating process, for without a proposal there is stand off.

The Dating Game

Posted on 6 September 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD of GL & Co, considers some similarities between Love and Property when searching online. Going back into the singles market after a period of life spent in a relationship can be difficult, troublesome and unnerving. Dating in 2017 is a lot different from ten years ago - never mind twenty or, heaven forbid, thirty. Society, expectations and even the rules of the game have moved on. Those entering this arena after some time have to learn these new rules and quickly.

What's good for the goose

Posted on 1 August 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, suggests a new way of thinking when it comes to selling property. Microsoft co-founder, Bill Gates, thinks that we overestimate the amount of change which will happen over two years but underestimate the amount of change over ten. This certainly seems to be the case with housing.

Deal Me In

Posted on 6 July 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, looks at one of the fundamentally important issues in selling or buying a property – the deal. There is currently an awful lot in the news about negotiating. In Europe the Brexit negotiators are sharpening their pencils while on the other side of the Atlantic President Trump would have us believe that he is the best negotiator who ever walked the earth. In fact selling houses has more to do with negotiating than just about anything else - the better the negotiator you have on your side, the better the deal you get. The trouble is most people aren’t too comfortable negotiating the purchases and sales of their own homes. That’s why they get someone to act for them - an estate agent.

Try on a house

Posted on 12 June 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, gives some timely property buying advice now that the general election is over. Many of us know about the Sorting Hat at J K Rowling's Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. When a new student puts on the hat it tells him or her to which of the four houses - Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw or Slytherin - they are most suited. Well a property is just like the Sorting Hat. It's as if it instinctively knows whether it's right for you - and you for it. All you have to do is listen carefully to the conversation the property is having with your inner self.

Vote for Housing

Posted on 3 May 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents looks ahead at the 2017 general election and an all too often ignored – but vitally important - area of government policy. No doubt Brexit, the economy and the NHS will dominate the 2017 general election. Energy, education and defence should also get a strong look-in while the devolved governments will be trying to get as much air time as possible. But do spare a thought for housing, as, on the evidence of the recent past, it doesn't look as if any of the political parties will.

Springwatch and Migration

Posted on 5 April 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents takes a fresh look at the property market this spring. Spring has arrived and the migratory instincts of home movers are at their annual peak. Some home migrants will only be moving a short distance from their existing habitat. Others will have a longer passage to different parts of the country or even overseas. But this is certainly home moving season. Can nothing stop this natural urge?

A Word To The Wise

Posted on 6 March 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, considers opposing forces that are affecting the property market this spring. The post-Brexit property market is turning into a paradox. With low interest rates, declining numbers of unemployed and an economy that appears to be on a strong path of sustained improvement things should be booming. Confidence, the lifeblood of the property market, should be surging though its heart, pumping up prices as the numbers of available properties dwindle. It should be the classic sellers’ market. Except it isn’t. Why?

Why buy new?

Posted on 20 February 2017 by Neil Moore

With the popularity of Horsham, West Sussex, on the increase so the demand for homes also increases. As a result, there is the need for new homes in and around the town and purchasers have a wide choice of high end developments, bespoke houses and also apartments of varying sizes. New homes are very popular with purchasers for a number of reasons. Read more in our blog...

Romance

Posted on 8 February 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, offers some timely estate agent matchmaking advice as we head towards Valentine’s Day.

Property Market Preview 2017

Posted on 4 January 2017 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents gazes into the property market crystal ball for 2017. The national press is fond of repeating what some estate agency firms have to say about the luxury market – especially in central London. This seems to suggest that it is an important part of the property market. Well it isn’t. It is the other end of the market which is important. The lower end drives everything. So if we want to understand about the health of the property market as we move into 2017 we need to look at how first time buyers might fare not at the relatively small market of houses for the super rich.

Ask Hilary!

Posted on 1 December 2016 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, looks at some fast changing attitudes in the property market.

Winter Sussex Property Market Update

Posted on 17 November 2016 by Neil Moore

So what’s happening with the property market at the moment? Well, it seems a day does not go past when someone in the Government is not talking about the ‘dysfunctional housing market’.

The Art of the Deal

Posted on 1 November 2016 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co Estate Agents, offers some good advice about selling your home in this or any market. In 1987 a book called The Art of the Deal was published. Part-credited to one Donald J Trump it is estimated to have sold over one million copies and it held the number one spot on the New York Times Best Seller List for 13 weeks. What made it so popular? Simply that people were fascinated to learn how to make better business deals. Selling a home is business. So here are seven of my key thoughts on the art of the property deal.

Two brand new homes of exceptional quality

Posted on 1 November 2016 by Neil Moore

A fantastic opportunity to purchase one of only two bespoke brand new homes located in a quiet premier lane. These superb properties, each measuring almost 3,000 sq ft, have been finished to an exacting standard and benefit from four bedrooms and three bedrooms together with two reception rooms.

Autumn Property Market View

Posted on 19 October 2016 by Neil Moore

This is a good time of the year to take stock, look back at what has happened so far and at what the remainder of the year may hold. Here at GL&Co we have seen a relatively stable year which, under the circumstances, has been positive.

Eagle Eyed

Posted on 3 October 2016 by Neil Moore

Eagle-eyed property market watchers may have noticed a change. Certainly those in London will have seen a marked difference from a year ago. The market has done an about turn in favour of buyers. Fewer buyers and more properties available have changed the fortunes of purchasers. What does this mean for the market elsewhere? Well, often where London leads other areas follow.

Lucky You

Posted on 1 September 2016 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at GL & Co finds lessons to be learnt from Olympic preparation. The fabulous Rio Olympics remind us that dedication, natural talent, great coaching, relentless training, self-belief and a total focus on winning are what creates a gold medalist. Luck comes last on the list, for Olympians can’t rely on luck. Instead they have to depend on things they have control over.

Hexit

Posted on 2 August 2016 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore from GL & Co takes a look at the post-Brexit property market and offers some sound advice to those selling their homes over the summer months.

What's a Wells Cottage?

Posted on 15 July 2016 by Neil Moore

We take a look at the history of the very pretty Wells Cottages in Sussex which are popular with buyers in the area.

Brexit Property Special

Posted on 24 June 2016 by Neil Moore

Well now we know. Britain is leaving the European Union. All the scaremongering is over and we will learn in the coming years which of the two sides was right after all. But what will this decision mean for the property market in the UK? Read our latest blog to find out more...

Buy to Let Market Update

Posted on 24 May 2016 by Neil Moore

Many people are asking me if buy to let is now effectively dead following the introduction of the additional 3% Stamp Duty on purchases and the changes to tax legislation impacting landlords. Read more in my latest blog...

Opportunities in new commuter areas

Posted on 17 May 2016 by Neil Moore

We are now starting to see the start of Summer in the gardens – the leaves have returned to the the trees and the plants are blooming. But what of the property market at the beginning of Summer – are things starting to bloom? Well, activity levels in the market are positive, building on the end of last year.

Spring 2016 Property Market Update

Posted on 4 May 2016 by Neil Moore

What’s happening in the property market? My favourite question and one I am asked all the time! Well, we finished 2015 on a high according to the Halifax Price Index and they have reported house prices in the three months to March 2016 were 2.9% higher than in the three months to December 2015. So what happens now?

Interested in Interest?

Posted on 24 March 2016 by Neil Moore

There has been much speculation regarding interest rates – they cannot get any lower than they are so the question is, when will they start to rise? With £314m owed in mortgages for properties in the RH12 & RH13 postcodes alone, even the smallest rise could have a big impact so it is a question many people are asking.

Buy to Let Returns on Investment

Posted on 7 March 2016 by Neil Moore

In this blog I’d like to share with you the information I have been working on as part of the landlord portfolio reviews I have been carrying out for people. This may help you when reviewing your own property portfolio to establish if it is performing as it should or if it requires an overhaul in terms of rental income in light of the current market conditions.

Home Ownership Trends

Posted on 1 February 2016 by Neil Moore

Comments from local people about local housing have got me looking into the property figures in more depth to establish what the current market looks like in the local area and I would like to share my findings with you. It is no secret that we are an ageing population – increasing state pension ages is a sign that we are all now living longer. Someone who is currently 20 will be retiring at age 68 now according to the Government. As the age of the population changes we are starting to see a shift in home ownership as more people are now renting their homes. This shift can be seen at a local level.

Stopwatch for Stamp Duty

Posted on 6 January 2016 by Neil Moore

Even if your property is not directly affected by the latest Stamp Duty increases, perhaps because it is not a suited as a Buy To Let investment, it may be indirectly affected by the changes.

What does 2016 hold

Posted on 5 January 2016 by Neil Moore

Welcome to 2016 and a new era in property. It promises to be an eventful-packed year. The way has already been prepared for a change in April when higher stamp duty rates are applied to properties bought for buy-to-let or second home purposes. So expect a busy time for the next few months as buyers rush to complete purchases before the axe falls. Already buy-to-let purchases are near their pre-crisis levels and the Chancellor may well tighten up lending criteria to stave off any potential problems down the line - 2015 saw buy-to-let borrowing at £38 billion compared with £45.7 billion in 2007. Mr Osborne will further affect landlords as from April as when they will also lose higher-rate tax relief on mortgage interest payments.

April Showers

Posted on 8 April 2015 by Neil Moore

The property market can sometimes seem a bit like the weather. Some days it is fine and sometimes it is rainy. But some days it really does not know what it is doing. The market is a bit like that at the moment. Just when it looks as if there is no momentum there is a surge of interest and then as quickly as it comes it stops - just like an April shower.

Renewing a lease

Posted on 8 September 2014 by Neil Moore

Owning a leasehold property isn’t as secure as owning a freehold property, but you do have certain rights. Most importantly, once you have owned (not necessarily lived in) the property for two years, you have the right to ask for an extension of the lease, or to ask for the option to purchase the freehold. As leasehold properties are virtually worthless without a current leasehold agreement, then it’s vital to keep a keen eye on the remaining length of time on your lease.

The perfect home?

Posted on 5 March 2014 by Neil Moore

Neil, our MD, looks at one of the challenges of buying property in this buoyant market. The big challenge with this property market is that there is less time to make a decision to buy. The fewer properties on the market the more pressure there is for buyers to make a choice quickly.

Lights, camera, action - ready to sell?

Posted on 8 October 2013 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore, MD at Guy Leonard and Company blogs about how to prepare your home for sale this Autumn

How do we see the economy in 2013?

Posted on 24 October 2012 by Neil Moore

Neil gives his thoughts on the economy in 2013 following a conference he attended last week.

Scramble! The September Property Market

Posted on 1 September 2011 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore of Guy Leonard and Co Estate Agents posts his latest West Sussex property market comment

Property and Prejudice the continued reticence of the banks to offer sensible mortgages

Posted on 1 March 2011 by Neil Moore

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single family in possession of a good mortgage must be in want of a house.

Estate agents licensing

Posted on 18 November 2010 by Neil Moore

I am pleased to advise everyone about the new licensing scheme that has been launched by the NAEA and approved by the government.

On Ice

Posted on 6 October 2010 by Neil Moore

Realistic estate agents are putting the champagne back on ice for a little longer. For a while many people thought that a buoyant property market had returned...

A Game of Two Halves! Neil Moore comments on the property market after a very busy Spring.

Posted on 1 July 2010 by Neil Moore

A Game of Two Halves! Neil Moore comments on the property market after a very busy Spring.

The Chancellor Giveth and the Chancellor Taketh Away

Posted on 25 March 2010 by Neil Moore

The Chancellor Giveth and the Chancellor Taketh Away The 2010 Budget was, overall, rather neutral for the property market. But there are some winners and losers. The increase in the Stamp Duty threshold - doubled to £250,000

What a start to 2010

Posted on 10 February 2010 by Neil Moore

What a start to 2010..... thank goodness the snow has gone away....

Home owners take advantage of the market.

Posted on 13 January 2010 by Neil Moore

Neil Moore of Guy Leonard & Company looks into the options presented by the property market this autumn.