This blog follows the property market in Colchester and the surrounding district. You’ll find tips, guidance and analysis that relates specifically to properties in and around Colchester. If you are thinking of buying or selling a property, or would like some impartial advice, please get in touch. To keep up to date with the Colchester property market, including buy-to-let and investment properties please subscribe.
With PM Keir Starmer warning it would be painful, the new government’s first Budget has been hotly awaited for some weeks now. In this article, we’ll look at what the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, announced – paying specific attention to what will affect the property market. The Chancellor started by giving forecasts which … Read more
There’s no doubt that 2023 was challenging for the private rental sector, but looking ahead, landlords have plenty of reasons to be cheerful. While no one knows precisely what will happen in the year ahead, economists believe interest rates and inflation have peaked, and that the economy will continue to rally. Here’s an idea of … Read more
Rents saw an autumn dip in October, following three months of rapidly escalating prices across England. According to the PropTech firm Goodlord, the average rent on new tenancies dropped by 11 per cent over the last month. At the same time, voids lengthened by 29% – from 14 days to 18 – another signal that … Read more
These Regulations apply from 1st July 2020 to any tenancy agreement signed on or after 1 June 2020. From 1 April 2021, the Regulations apply to all tenancy agreements. The Regulations set out certain requirements for landlords to ensure electrical safety standards are met. Every electrical installation should be inspected and tested every 5 years … Read more
What are the requirements for carbon monoxide alarms From 1 October 2022, all properties will be expected to have a CO detector fitted in every room that is: This would include gas boilers, wooden stoves, open fires, etc. The only exception to this is are rooms where the only fuel burning appliance is a gas … Read more
It Makes Sense To Ensure Adequate Protection Is In Place Landlords in Colchester with Buy To Let mortgages will already have adequate buildings insurance in place. Even those who own outright usually insure their property for its rebuild cost, with cover in place for damage caused by floods, fire, and storms. However, there are other … Read more
As the housing landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for renters and landlords alike to stay informed about significant legislative changes. One such development is the Renters Reform Bill, which aims to bring about substantial reforms in the rental market. On the 17th May 2023, the government introduced the Renters’ (Reform) Bill to parliament. MPs … Read more
With thanks to Andrew Conway, senior director at Lawrence Stephens for granting permission to publish the following article: Earlier this month, the government released statistics for mortgage and landlord repossessions from October to December 2022. The Guardian chose to sum up that announcement with the headline ‘Rental evictions in England and Wales surge by 98% … Read more
There is a common misconception amongst Colchester landlords that only people who are unable to afford to purchase a property choose to rent a home. Many people believe that if properties were more affordable, the majority of tenants would buy their own home and leave the rental market in droves. However, that isn’t the case. A … Read more
Changes are now in force concerning smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulations in English rental properties. As all Colchester landlords need to be aware of these updates, our team here at Home Sales & Lettings is here to bring you up to speed with the changes to the law. Changes To The Regulations Since 2015, … Read more