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How to choose the right home for you and your future

Deciding to move is a busy and exciting time with plenty to think about.  So, when Zoopla recently reported that 52% of British homeowners live in a house that doesn’t meet their needs and stay in it for an average of 4.4 years, we wanted to help you to avoid the same trap and ensure your next move was exactly the right one for you.

Our Agency Associate Director Graham Walker gives his top 5 tips on how to make this happen:

  1. Is the time right for you?  The property market is certainly a fast-changing one and we have seen prices increase in all areas over the past year and as much as 10% in certain areas.  Whilst there is no doubt it is a seller’s market, it’s important to decide if now is truly the right time for you and then take advantage of this increase.  Our latest podcast will give you an insight into the local market to help you make the right decision.
  1. Make a list.  It is great that you have decided to move, but what is it you truly want from your next property?  Are you looking for a change of lifestyle, for a better broadband connection (yes it does happen!), or for a dedicated working from home space with a magnificent view overlooking the Yorkshire Dales.  You need to make a list of what your top 5 non-negotiables are and what you want your life to be like in your new home.
  1. Go window shopping.  Property portals are an excellent place to start, and you can set up an alert so you never miss out.  But now that restrictions are lifting nothing beats heading to the estate agents in the area that you’ve been looking at and talking to them about the area and what is actually going on in the local market.  You will then gain a real sense of what it’s really like to live in the area and ask the questions that really matter to you.
  1. Know your budget.  Our advice is to have a Market Appraisal carried out first – that way you will know what you can expect price-wise, and you can begin your research with a budget in mind.  Our guide is designed to help you through this process.  You can then decide whether you are ready to put your property on the market whilst you search.  The current market is moving incredibly quickly, you do not need to feel rushed – you choose the buyer and price that is right for you.  Our property experts are always on hand should you wish to book a complimentary market appraisal or to speak to for advice.
  1. Find the right agent for you.  When choosing an agent, it is important that you feel comfortable with the advice you are being given.  It is also very easy to fall into the trap of being wooed with overly inflated valuations and low fees.  Our agents are highly experienced property professionals and have extensive knowledge of their local areas and market.  We will talk in detail about the options available to you and suggest several strategies tailored to your needs.  We will leave with you a copy of our market appraisal booklet which includes tips for selling, information about the team you will work with, and an insight into the other areas GSC Grays covers that may be of benefit to you during the process. It is natural to have plenty of questions and our agents are always happy to talk you through the process and put your mind at rest.  To support you through the process, we would encourage those thinking of selling to contact us as early as possible.

 

For further advice or to book your complimentary market appraisal contact Graham on 01969 600120.

 

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