Written By Em

Em

Em Morley

Average House Price Per Square Foot on the London Underground

Published On: June 19, 2016 at 8:23 am

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Categories: Property News

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We’re all aware about how high house prices in London are, but this new Tube map highlights the spiralling costs of living in the capital.

If you’re thinking of buying a property in London, this reimagined Underground map details exactly how much it costs on average to purchase a home near each Tube station.

TotallyMoney.com has put together the handy, if depressing, map to show the average house price per square foot within 0.3 miles of every London Underground station.

To put it into context, the average one-bedroom flat in the capital is around 500 square feet – with many areas on the map costing over £1,000 per square foot, it’s not difficult to realise that you’re going to need a hefty mortgage and a huge deposit to secure a property in London.

The map shows that the Hammersmith & City line is the most expensive in the capital, with an average price of £1,125 per square foot. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan line is home to the cheapest property price, at £504 per square foot.

However, it is worth noting that the Metropolitan line stretches into zone 9, meaning that although you will save on house prices, you will have a seriously long and expensive commute.

The latest Government data puts the average house price in London at £470,000. However, online estate agent eMoov claims that less than half of all homes in the capital are priced at the average value or below. Therefore, it may be more difficult to find an affordable home than you think.

Unsurprisingly, ahead of next week’s EU referendum, property sales have halved in prime central London, as buyers face the uncertainty of the vote.

And the news isn’t any better for tenants in the capital – according to one London estate agent, the average renter spends a huge 70% of their income on rent and bills.

Use the handy map above to find out where you can afford to buy a property in London.

New Tool Helps Homeowners Find the Right Estate Agent

Published On: June 18, 2016 at 8:08 am

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A new tool has been launched to help homeowners find the right estate agent based on their performance, such as sales time and price achieved.

The HomeOwners Alliance, the UK’s leading property advice website, launched the new service on Tuesday (14th June) to help its 3m visitors make an informed decision about which estate agent to instruct, based on hard data, rather than relying on chance and sales patter.

The organisation reports that problems with estate agents often lead to excessive costs, delays and stress, and is one of the main reasons that people contact and join the HomeOwners Alliance.

The free tool, estateagent4me.co.uk, allows vendors to find local estate agents and ranks them according to:

  • New Tool Helps Homeowners Find the Right Estate Agent

    New Tool Helps Homeowners Find the Right Estate Agent

    How likely they are to sell the property – based on the percentage of properties that the agent has sold compared to the total number of properties listed with the agent.

  • The speed at which they are likely to sell it – based on the average time it takes for a property to go from estate agent instruction to Sold Subject to Contract.
  • How close they get to the asking price – based on the percentage of the asking price achieved on average.
  • How much they charge

The HomeOwners Alliance believes that homeowners typically start their search for an estate agent by looking out for For Sale boards in their local area, speaking to friends or popping into their local high street branch.

In making the final decision, sellers tend to fall into two camps – they will either take the view that all agents are the same, so opt for the cheapest one, or pay over the odds, wooed by the offer of a high sale price.

The group hopes to help people find the right agent for them based on the things that matter, rather than For Sale boards and sales patter.

estateagent4me.co.uk is free to use and allows homeowners to view all of this impartial information on estate agents’ performance instantly. The data is updated on a daily basis from over 18,000 estate agents across thousands of different websites to provide accurate comparison information.

Homeowners also have the option of contacting the agents directly from the platform. Using estateagent4me.co.uk, they can ask their preferred agents to get in touch, taking the hassle out of phoning around.

The CEO of HomeOwners Alliance, Paula Higgins, explains: “We want to take the chance and risk out of choosing an estate agent, and help homeowners choose one that is best suited for them based on hard data about the agent’s local performance. For the first time, homesellers can take an informed decision, whether it’s based on getting the highest asking price, selling quickest or how much they pay in fees. They will be able to tell which agents try and win business by promising unrealistic asking prices, which ones have high fees, and which ones take ages to sell.

“We hope this will lead to a homeselling revolution, getting estate agents to move away from the hard sell, and instead compete on how well they serve homeowners.

“Sadly, one of the main reasons homeowners get in touch with us is because they get into problems with their estate agent. We hope this tool will get homeowners asking the right questions from the start. Our free guide, exclusive for users, advises how to then appoint and work with an estate agent for a stress-free sale.”

Higgins adds: “We know that estate agents are a critical part of the homeselling process, so we’re pleased to be able to showcase the best ones, and in a way that allows people to properly research agents outside of office hours and from the comfort of their own sofa.”

Short-Term Let Horror Stories Highlight Importance of Lettings Market

Published On: June 17, 2016 at 11:33 am

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Horror stories from landlords and tenants using short-term lets websites highlight the security provided by the traditional lettings market, insists the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC).

The organisation claims that landlords who let via traditional methods have more opportunities to reduce their chances of being hit with hefty repair bills when tenants leave.

In the past year, a number of high-profile stories have been reported regarding people who let through short-term lets websites, whose properties have been trashed by tenants.

One landlord, Nigel Broome, ended up with a damage bill of £12,000 after letting his southeast London flat through Airbnb. Broome claimed that his tenants held a New Year’s Eve party in his property, which led to holes in the walls, broken furniture and ruined floors.

The Chair of the AIIC, Patricia Barber, says: “No one can deny the success of outlets like Airbnb and there is clearly a strong demand for this type of accommodation. However, there seems to be an increasing number of rental horror stories surrounding this type of let being reported, and those who choose to offer their properties through these sites on a regular basis could be leaving

Short-Term Let Horror Stories Highlight Importance of Lettings Market

Short-Term Let Horror Stories Highlight Importance of Lettings Market

themselves open to hefty bills.”

Barber also knows of one tenant who rented a four-bedroom house for £3,000 per month through a short-term lets website.

The tenant was horrified to find that the oven and fridge were not working, the garden was overgrown, the conservatory had no glazing and the property was in a generally poor condition. Barber argues that the checks and procedures that those letting through these websites have to conduct are minimal, leading to some properties that are not fit for purpose being rented out.

Homeowners who let through sites like Airbnb are required to check their mortgage contract and ask permission from their lender before doing so.

Prospective short-term landlords must also check their insurance policy to ensure they are covered. Additionally, they are required to carry out a fire risk assessment and have gas safety checks every 12 months.

Most short-term lets websites offer terms, information and guidance for landlords, but they do make it clear that users must take it upon themselves to ensure they are not breaking any laws or regulations.

Barber explains: “When you compare the required checks, legislation and measures short-term landlords are required to adhere to with those carried out by someone letting through traditional channels, it’s clear there is a big difference. Tenants booking short-term lets through the internet may benefit from more flexible terms and potentially cheaper rents, but there’s no guarantee they’ll be as well protected.”

Those who let through short-term lets websites do not have to comply with mandatory deposit protection and tenancy agreement rules, and Barber believes they are highly unlikely to reference tenants before letting to them.

The AIIC states that it is measures like these that protect landlords and tenants when issues arise at the end of a tenancy.

Barber says: “It’s clear that the traditional lettings route offers more security and stability for landlords, although that’s not to say there are no risks of property damage when letting this way.”

The AIIC adds that the hefty bills received by landlords letting properties through short-term lets websites highlight the value of an inventory for anyone renting out property.

Barber concludes: “Some level of damage or wear and tear is always likely to occur during a tenancy, but a professionally-compiled inventory helps to cover landlords against damage caused by tenants. An inventory can also help to provide landlords with peace of mind throughout the duration of the tenancy.”

Is Your Dad a Landlord? Here’s a Father’s Day Gift Guide

Published On: June 17, 2016 at 10:48 am

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Categories: Landlord News

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If your dad is a landlord, you may be wondering what to buy him for Father’s Day on Sunday. Don’t worry – we have a gift guide to help you find the perfect present.

If your dad is either a part or full-time landlord, he may often be busy and stressed with business. Treat him this Father’s Day with one of these handy (but special) gifts:

Gadgets

Some of the tech available today can be really helpful for landlords, who have a lot of organising and managing to do. Small items that are easy to transport and keep your dad on top of his responsibilities are great options. If he doesn’t already have the following, why not treat him to a new gadget?

  • Digital camera – Perfect for snapping pictures of his rental property for either listings or inventories, a new, top-of-the-range digital camera will be appreciated by all landlords.
  • Voucher for apps – If your dad has a smartphone or tablet, a voucher for the relevant app store will allow him to download many of the handy tools available today. From property portal apps to spirit level apps, there’s plenty to make a landlord’s life easier.
  • Phone case – It’s vital that all landlords stay organised while on the go. This means that most will carry a smartphone with them to make notes and communicate with tenants. Smarten up your dad’s essentials with a new phone case.
Is Your Dad a Landlord? Here's a Father's Day Gift Guide

Is Your Dad a Landlord? Here’s a Father’s Day Gift Guide

Tools 

A landlord that loves property will appreciate anything that improves his investments. New tools will help him maintain his properties to a high standard and even increase the value of his investment.

  • Multi-tool – A standard pocketknife doesn’t cut it anymore; there are many small, compact multi-tools on offer that will get your dad through simple maintenance tasks.
  • Electric/laser tape measure – If your dad is looking to invest further in the private rental sector, it’s likely that he will be going to many property viewings and sizing up his investment options. An easy to use, electric or laser tape measure will help him assess his new investments much more quickly and easily.

Stationary

From conducting inventories to signing tenancy agreements, all landlords have a lot of admin work to complete. Make everything easier and more organised for your dad with some of these ideas…

  • A nice pen – It’s likely that your dad will have many important documents to sign, so having a special pen to keep with him at all times will ensure he’s always prepared. It’ll also look nice when he offers it to a tenant.
  • Notebooks and folders – We all know how difficult it can be to keep mounds of paperwork in order; make life easier for your landlord father by treating him to some new stationary that he can use for each rental property.

Something for him

While many landlords will appreciate any of the gift options above, it is always nice to receive something especially for you – particularly when you have tonnes of laws and regulations to comply with! Treat your dad to something for him this Father’s Day.

  • New mug – Make sure he always has a smile on his face when he makes a well-earned brew with a new mug that reminds him of you.
  • Bottle of wine – Renting out properties can be stressful and time consuming; ensure your dad has time for himself this Father’s Day with a bottle of his favourite wine (or beer if he prefers).
  • A Just Landlords Rent Guarantee Insurance policy – Protecting a landlord’s rental income is one of the best gifts you can give!

5 London Property Hotspots to Invest in

Published On: June 17, 2016 at 9:44 am

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If you’re looking to secure a lucrative buy-to-let investment, London is your best bet. But which property hotspots in the capital are the best places to invest in?

LendInvest’s recent Buy-to-Let Index has found that London is the most profitable part of the UK to invest in, with east London offering the highest rental yields, of 7.4%. Manchester follows at 6.8%, with southeast London close behind at 6.7%.

The capital also offers the highest capital gains in the country, with house prices in southwest London rising by a whopping 13.8% per year between 2010-16.

If you’re looking to benefit from both high rental yields and capital gains, London is without a doubt your best bet, according to estate agent Portico. The firm takes a look at the property hotspots that are tipped for growth in the coming years…

Walthamstow

In the last 15 years, Walthamstow has changed beyond recognition, with prices rising by more than 50% in most parts of the area. And although capital growth has increased more quickly than rents in the area, buy-to-let landlords are just as keen as homebuyers to purchase property in this location. The general consensus is that Walthamstow still has further growth to come, thanks to improving transport links to the City and the sheer level of investment in the area, making it a fantastic place for young professionals to live.

Forest Gate 

5 London Property Hotspots to Invest in

5 London Property Hotspots to Invest in

All eyes are currently on Forest Gate, as Crossrail has caused house prices to soar by 65.5% in the area since work began in 2009. Gentrification is also in full force too, with trendy restaurants opening and young professionals moving into the area. Portico believes that prices will continue to rise in Forest Gate, as more people move in and discover what a great and well-connected area it is to live in.

New build properties around the station are particularly desirable and are being snapped up almost instantly by City workers looking for affordable homes and a quick commute.

Manor Park 

Manor Park has also benefitted from house price growth since work began on Crossrail. Property values have shot up by a huge 57% since 2009, however, the average house price is still below the London average, at a reasonable £341,253.

The line isn’t due to open until 2019, so there is still time for further capital growth in Manor Park. With plenty of beautiful parkland, the area is popular with families, so a three or four-bedroom property investment would be a good choice.

Southwark 

Over the past year, SE1 has soared in popularity, thanks to extensive generation around the Shard and infrastructure improvements.

It is an ideal spot to both live and invest, thanks to its central location, fascinating history and vibrant food scene. Residents can enjoy strolling through the popular Maltby Street Market on a Saturday, which offers some delicious street food, wandering down Bermondsey Street to stop off in one of the many boutiques, or moseying around Borough Market, which is one of London’s most popular attractions.

Portico anticipates demand for housing and prices to keep rising, as the Thameslink upgrade and improvements to London Bridge station continue.

Hackney

Hackney is still considered a hotspot for London’s hipsters, and house prices are rising in line with demand. The area bordering Islington is a real treat, offering smart Georgian and Victorian terraces and warehouse conversions, as is the area around London Fields, which has experienced huge regeneration in recent years.

The area offers direct connections to the City, Docklands and West End, fantastic schools and many parks, shops, bars and restaurants.

Which property hotspot will you invest in?

One in Five London Properties Cost £1m or More

Published On: June 17, 2016 at 8:41 am

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Categories: Property News

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One in five London properties has a price tag of £1m or more, according to the latest research into the capital’s housing market by online estate agent eMoov.co.uk.

The study found that the plethora of properties priced at £1m or more are spread throughout all London boroughs except one, Barking and Dagenham.

Previous research by eMoov highlighted how little of London’s housing stock is priced at the average value or below.

One in Five London Properties Cost £1m or More

One in Five London Properties Cost £1m or More

London is widely considered the most expensive city in the world due to the high level of £1m-plus high-rise apartments and townhouses. eMoov’s latest analysis of the market has revealed that 20% of all properties currently listed for sale in the capital cost £1m or more.

The online agent has assessed current stock levels across all of the major property portals, recording the total numbers listed for each London borough, before comparing this to the level of stock priced at £1m or more. It also calculated the percentage of stock across the capital as a whole.

Unsurprisingly, Westminster recorded the highest level of £1m-plus properties, at 63% of all stock, closely followed by Kensington and Chelsea at 62%.

However, despite the ever-increasing price of property in London, there is still one borough in the capital where not a single property has hit the £1m mark. Barking and Dagenham is yet to see any of its properties reach £1m.

And although the surrounding boroughs are home to a few £1m-plus properties, the following have recorded low levels: Newham (1%), Bexley (1%), Waltham Forest (1%), Redbridge (2%), Havering (2%), Lewisham (3%) and Greenwich (5%).

The founder and CEO of eMoov, Russell Quirk, comments: “When people think of London, they accept prices are through the roof. Even though the average house price in Barking and Dagenham is considerably lower than the London average, at £253,000, it still trumps the UK average by tens of thousands of pounds. In a market as inflated as London, where stock is scarce and demand is overwhelming, it’s quite remarkable that there is still an entire borough without even one property at the £1m mark or over.

“With prices across London continuing to rise, surely it won’t be long before Barking and Dagenham will see some of its properties priced at £1m or above. Despite this, our latest research shines yet another spotlight on how unaffordable London is from a property point of view.”

He adds: “When you consider that across a city as vast and as populated as London, one in every five properties will cost you a six-digit price tag, it really is disheartening for the aspiring London homeowner.”