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If you’re considering adding an annexe to your home, you’re in growing company. An increasing number of homeowners are looking to their gardens to expand their living spaces in the form of a self-contained annexe.  

If you’re considering building an annexe of your own, here are just some of the benefits. 

Multi-generational living 

Homeownership isn’t an easy feat, especially for retired dwellers and early nest-fleers. Whether it’s a helping hand towards independence, or a cosy private space to wile away a few years of saving up for a home, a garden annexe could be the perfect solution. Cross-generational living arrangements are much more harmonious when everyone has their own dedicated living space. In addition, you might want to bring a loved one closer so that they can be cared for in a setting they’re comfortable in.

Having a home office 

The pandemic-induced spike in remote work has left many Brits in need of more versatile space to accommodate long working hours. If you have multiple family members working from home, an annexe is a great way to break up the space and create healthy boundaries for a better work-life balance. 

Financial perks 

An annexe only commands an upfront cost, whereas care costs can be staggeringly high, with no clear end in sight. By moving a loved one into a traditional ‘Granny Annexe’, you can save on care costs while also being able to keep an eye on their wellbeing. 

Value enhancement 

According to Checkatrade, a self-contained annexe could add up to 20-30% to the value of your home. Various factors will affect your exact figure, such as size, the quality of the finish, and where you live, but adding more living space to your home is certain to be attractive to future potential buyers. 

Opportunity to live out your design dreams 

For some, the most exciting aspect of building an annexe is the extra bit of freedom to get creative with design. As a separate entity from the main living space, you can try out all those fun interior trends that don’t quite match your house but would look fantastic in a smaller dwelling. The possibilities are endless when you’re free from the constraints of having to match the rest of the house, so take the opportunity to curate an exciting and original layout that satisfies your inner interior designer.  

Buying a home with an annexe 

If you aren’t keen on building your own, buying a property with an annexe could save you a lot of hassle. However, when searching for a property with an annexe, it’s important to consider your specific requirements such as additional accessibility. Is the annexe versatile? Could it be converted to suit your needs? Your agent will have an extensive portfolio of suitable properties, so inform them of your wants and needs to help them whittle down the search for your dream home. 

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Easter weekend being right around the corner is the perfect excuse to brighten up the home with an abundance of florals and an array of colours to welcome in the springtime sunshine! Hop right into the season with these fun and simple Easter decorating tips…

Create a centrepiece bowl

Easter is a wonderful time to incorporate some seasonal décor into your home, and since your dining table will be working hard this season, you might as well make it the centre of attention! Fill a large decorative bowl or layered trays with pretty trinkets such as Easter treats, painted eggs, fake baby chicks, and finish off with faux daisies and daffodils.

Hang a wreath

Beautiful door decorations needn’t be confined to Christmas

Beautiful door decorations needn’t be confined to Christmas! Springtime wreaths – both handmade and storebought – are wonderful for greeting guests and setting a bright seasonal tone for your home’s entrance.

Leave Easter bunny clues

If you have children or are expecting little ones to visit over Easter, reaffirm their belief in the Easter Bunny with a few exciting clues around the house. Nibble or chop into the end of a carrot and place it somewhere in the house while everyone is sleeping, leave remnants of fluff from his tail, or create a trail of pawprints from the front door to where the eggs are hidden. Children will love these added touches, whether they still believe or not!

Bunny banners

Get the kids involved with no-sew bunny and egg banners

Get the kids involved with no-sew bunny and egg banners by cutting out card shapes to arrange along a piece of string. This is a great way to make use of scrapbook paper or repurpose any wallpaper remnants – the more colour variety, the better!

Let the sun flood in

Natural lighting is your home’s best friend, and now is the perfect time to make the most of spring’s beautiful golden rays by switching to lighter curtains and keeping them open during the day.

Get creative with table settings

Guests love thoughtful touches, and you can create lovely name cards embellished with Easter stickers or cute marker drawings, tie cutlery and napkins together with pastel ribbons, or even create mini nests by filling tea-light holders with shredded tissue and hand-painted eggs.

Daffodil décor

Nothing brightens up a room quite like a vase filled with blooming yellow daffodils

Nothing brightens up a room quite like a vase filled with blooming yellow daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. While they’re still in season, you can make the most of our bright and early friends by displaying them in interesting planters and jugs. If you aren’t a fan of primary colours, you can balance out the look with a transparent or white vase to create a harmonious flower display that doesn’t throw-off your home’s colour scheme.

Display treats

While you’re prepping for Easter egg hunts and seasonal gifts, you may as well display your Easter treats around the home for the time being. Grab a basket and load it up with Eggs and sweet treats of every size and colour – they will make the perfect display piece before the time comes to hide them all around your garden.

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Thinking of installing a new kitchen in your home? Read this article first to ensure your new kitchen is bang on trend and looks straight out of an interior design magazine.

Trends change with the seasons, particularly in fashion. Still, a new kitchen is a much higher investment of your time and finances. Not to mention the upheaval involved in removing and replacing a kitchen with a new one. A week might sound like a short time, but cooking without an oven or washing up by hand can be stressful because you can't leave your dishwasher connected. You may have a utility room, which makes things easier, but if not, you will likely wash your crockery in the bath! Far from ideal.

So it is vital that when you go into the effort of fitting a new kitchen, you fit one that will be desirable for years to come and doesn't need to be updated before you've added the finishing touches. And the hottest new design trend is an 'invisible kitchen'.

So, what is an 'invisible' kitchen?

Perfect for those minimalists among us, the invisible kitchen trend aims to conceal as many unsightly appliances as possible, hiding everything away and keeping clear worktops. It creates a sleek and stylish finish for the kitchen, which can often become chaotic. It also allows your beautiful new kitchen to take centre stage without the distraction of clutter.

How can you achieve an 'invisible' kitchen?

Clear worktops and concealed appliances are the first port of call, and the minimalist style calls for handle-less doors and drawer fronts, either with push-to-open mechanisms or concealed handles. Popular options include large pantry cupboards or a walk-in pantry, which allows you to have the usual mess that family life brings to a kitchen, with doors that you can close quickly to keep the kitchen looking minimal without having to clean constantly. Ovens, fridges and other appliances are simple to integrate into a kitchen or conceal, so consider a low-profile, barely there hob. Induction hobs fit flush in the worktops, staying in the theme of streamlined minimalism. Extractors come in many shapes and sizes and can be mounted in the ceiling and within a worktop now, so you don't have to have a huge, unsightly chimney-style extractor hood.

If you have a central island in your kitchen, consider a sliding worktop that can be moved to reveal a hob or sink unit, which can then be covered up, leaving a clean and clear surface.

With all of this minimal design and concealed clutter, you may find that your kitchen can take a more dramatic style with brighter or more intense colours or patterned tiles or flooring so you can let your inner interior designer go wild.

An invisible kitchen is camouflaged within the rest of the home's interior, remaining functional and practical just the same as a conventional kitchen with key design and careful consideration to ensure a more discreet and minimal result. Perfect for ultra-modern properties, bijou spaces, or those who prefer a maximalist decorating style.

If you are considering a move, why not contact our friendly team to see our available properties? Click here

If you are looking to buy a home but cannot afford to make it happen on your own, you will be happy to know that up to four people can be registered as legal co-owners of a property. Because of this, buying property with friends can be a smart and efficient way to enter the housing market while sharing financial responsibilities. In this article, we will explore the benefits of buying property with friends, how the process works, and things you need to consider before completing the purchase. 

Benefits of buying property with friends 

One of the main benefits of buying a home with your friends is that you will be able to put a larger deposit down on the property. Because of this, you will be able to access better mortgage deals that will bring your monthly costs down in the long run. You will also have a larger budget to spend on a more spacious and luxurious property that may be out of your financial reach individually.   

Additionally, all the costs associated with renovating your home can be split four ways, making them much more manageable. This gives you more scope to create a stylish home that suits the preferences of you and your friends, giving your home that personal touch. 

Above all else, sharing a home with your friends is enjoyable. Buying a home on your own can be daunting, but buying a property with friends allows you to strengthen your social connections and share responsibility to ease the stress and apprehension that can sometimes surround moving.

Making sure you have an agreement in place 

Before you move into your new home, it is essential to have a solid agreement in place. This is called a deed of trust. Without proper planning and communication, what should be an exciting venture can turn into a stressful experience if you do not have a written agreement.  

It should outline each person’s rights and responsibilities so that everybody knows what they can expect and what is expected of them. A deed of trust also helps to make sure that everyone’s finances and payments are recognised and safeguarded.  

Keeping a comprehensive inventory is also important, as it clearly outlines who bought what. It should include items such as televisions, kitchen appliances, and furniture so that possessions are split fairly if you decide to sell further down the line.  

Getting your finances in order 

One of the first steps to getting your finances in order when buying property with friends is to establish a budget. You should sit down with your friends and assess your individual financial situations to determine how much you can afford to put towards the deposit, monthly mortgage payments, and utility costs. 

Opening a joint bank account is a smart move when buying property with friends, as you can deposit your individual contributions in one safe place. This allows for transparency and keeps track of each person's financial commitment.  

You and your friends will need to secure a joint mortgage, so it is crucial to thoroughly research and compare mortgage options to find the best terms and interest rates. As this will make you financially associated with your friends, their credit history could be taken into account when applying for credit, making it important to ensure everything is in order. 

Things to consider 

As exciting as it is to buy a new property with your friends, there are some risks and challenges that need to be considered. 

Property search: When searching for a property together, each person may have differing goals and expectations. Some may view it as a short-term option, while others view it as a future home. It is therefore essential to align your goals from the beginning and have a clear plan in place. 

Financial responsibility: Sharing financial responsibilities is one of the greatest challenges when buying property with friends, as splitting the purchase price, mortgage payments, and ongoing expenses can lead to disagreements and strain the friendship if a strong agreement is not in place or not followed. 

Decision-making: When multiple people are involved in decision-making, conflicts can arise. Implementing a system for decision-making, such as a voting process or appointing a spokesperson, can help avoid conflicts and ensure everyone's voices are heard. 

Moving out: When the time comes when one or all parties are looking to move out, it can be difficult to decide your next steps. Because of this, it is important to discuss and establish a plan for potential future scenarios, potentially even pre-negotiating a buyout option. Having a clear exit strategy outlined in the initial agreement can prevent disputes and maintain a smooth transition. 

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Are you looking to move into a stunning new property? Contact us today Click Here

Moving out of a rented property can be a hectic and overwhelming process. But amidst the chaos of packing, organising, and saying goodbye to a familiar space, it’s important not to overlook the essential task of properly ending your tenancy. Whether you're a tenant or a landlord, following this end-of-tenancy checklist can help to ensure a smooth transition and protect the interests of all parties involved.

Review your tenancy agreement 

Before you start looking for your next home, make sure you carefully review your tenancy agreement. This document holds valuable information regarding notice periods, conditions for termination, and any specific requirements related to the end of your tenancy. Understanding your rights and obligations will help you plan your next steps accordingly and avoid disputes. 

Provide adequate notice 

Most tenancy agreements in the UK require tenants to give notice before moving out, so ensure you comply with the notice period specified in your agreement. Typically, this ranges from one to three months. Giving sufficient notice allows both you and your landlord to plan for the upcoming transition. 

Schedule a property inspection 

Contact your landlord or letting agent to arrange a final inspection of the property. This inspection will help determine the condition of the property and identify any issues that may need attention. It's advisable to schedule this inspection a few weeks before your planned move-out date, giving you ample time to address any concerns raised. 

Redirect your post 

To avoid any inconvenience or potential data breaches, redirect your mail to your new address and update your friends and family. You can notify the Royal Mail or your local postal service about your change of address online, and this will ensure that important correspondence reaches you without delay.

Repair and clean 

Take care of any necessary repairs and maintenance tasks before you vacate the premises. This includes fixing broken fixtures, addressing minor damages, and ensuring that all appliances are in working order. Thoroughly clean the property, paying close attention to areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and carpets. A well-maintained and clean property will increase the likelihood of being refunded your deposit in full. 

Remove personal belongings 

Make sure to remove all personal belongings from the property and conduct a thorough sweep of all rooms, including cupboards, wardrobes, and storage areas. Remember to check the loft and garage if the property has either. Dispose of any unwanted items responsibly or arrange for their removal, ensuring that the property is left clear and ready for the next tenancy.

Settle outstanding bills 

Before your departure, settle any outstanding utility bills, council tax payments, or other financial obligations tied to the property. Notify the relevant service providers of your moving date to ensure a smooth transition of these responsibilities to the new tenant or the landlord. Don't forget to take pictures of your meter readings.

Return keys and documentation 

On your final day, return all keys to the landlord or letting agent as per the agreed-upon instructions. Hand over any relevant documentation, such as a check-out inventory report, meter readings, or other required paperwork. This will serve as proof of the property's condition and facilitate the welcomed return of your deposit. 

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Selling a property and going through a separation make the top three on the list of the most stressful experiences a person can go through, and sadly, these two things often go hand in hand. If this is you, read this article for guidance on handling this process.

Three of the most stressful situations that a person can go through is a bereavement, a relationship breakdown and selling your home. Unfortunately, if you are experiencing a relationship breakdown, you will often have to sell a home at the same time. Two out of three could be very bad!

Separation is never easy, but after deciding to end a relationship, a property often needs to be disposed of. If you rent the property, notice must be served, and you must continue to pay the rent, but this is relatively simple. If you own your home, though, it can be lengthy and create an additional stressful hurdle to overcome.

Many decisions need to be made. Who, if anyone, will keep the property? Would you prefer to buy your partner out of the property and stay there? Are you able to finance this? Or will you have to sell the property?

What do you need to consider?

Value: The property value may help you to make the decision. Is the value high enough to pay off the mortgage? You can call us to arrange a property valuation, even if you are in the early stages. It is okay if you are not necessarily planning to sell straight away, but if you would instead opt for an online valuation to give you an idea of the price without committing to an in-person appointment just yet, select the instant valuation tab on our website.

Finance: Taking on the cost of your property on your own will likely be a significant change to your finances, so double-check whether it will be affordable for you. Speak to an independent financial advisor to see if you can take on the property. It could be too much of a stretch for you, and you will be left with no choice but to sell the property, but it is best to be sensible and check this out properly before you commit so that you are not left strapped for cash.

Get the right advice: Everyone you have spoken to likely has an opinion, and it can be challenging to determine what to do for the best. You need impartial, helpful advice on how best to approach the sale of your property, and this will be found in an exceptional estate agent. They will be able to present all options available to you clearly so that you can make an informed decision.

Staying in the family home could be tricky. It may be simpler for you to sell up and move on to new pastures. Could you buy a smaller and cheaper property? Or consider moving into a rented property to buy yourself some time.

Whatever you decide to do for the best, the most crucial advice is to try and stay civil. Whilst we appreciate that keeping the peace is not always easy and communication with an ex-partner could be tense, it is best to try and remain civil. Tensions can rise when you try to sell a property after a relationship breakdown. Still, if there is bad blood and argumentative behaviour, the one sure thing is it will cost you both money in the long run, and no one really wins!

If you are going through a separation and need some advice about the best thing to do with your property, contact our property experts today for free, impartial guidance on how to move forward for both parties. Click here

Stepping into the shoes of a landlord is an exciting prospect, but it’s also a big responsibility which shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re a potential property investor, here are the key things you’ll need to know before embarking on your journey to financial security. 

Understand the market 

Property investment is no get-rich-quick scheme, so you’ll need to take some time to research beforehand. The property market is dynamic and shaped by fluctuating factors like economic conditions, housing demand and evolving legislation. So not only will you need to be informed from the get-go, but you will also need to keep your finger on the pulse at all times to manage your property effectively.  

Legalities and obligations 

Becoming a landlord means taking on a host of legal responsibilities, and there are serious consequences for non-adherence. From tenancy agreements to safety regulations, legal compliance is essential in every facet of letting out a home. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the latest legislation, ensuring that your property complies with all legal requirements. As the landscape continues to evolve and legislation tightens, it makes sense to invest in effective property management and have an expert letting agent on your side to guide you through the legalities.  

Get to know the basics 

Being a landlord goes beyond just collecting rent. Successful property management requires tenant screening, regular maintenance, and clear communication with the people living in your property. It’s important to have a robust system in place for property upkeep, as this will ensure that your investment remains suitable for your current tenants, and desirable for any future tenants.  

Financial planning 

As with any investment, establishing a budget is paramount. Make sure to speak with your agent and calculate your potential return on investment (ROI). Buy-to-let properties are an investment which requires money input, so you’ll need to factor in mortgage payments, property taxes and maintenance costs before you can figure out your ROI. It’s also important to remember that a secondary stream of income will not be your only return. Your property is an asset that will grow in value over the years, so try to plan for the future when deciding on a budget. 

Take out landlord insurance 

It’s no secret that there are risks involved with being a landlord. Things like unexpected loss of income or damage to your property could put you in a difficult financial position. By taking out appropriate insurance coverage, you can protect yourself and your investment even if the worst does happen. Landlord insurance is a specialised package which can include emergence assistance cover and legal expenses protection.  

Hire a letting agent 

The intricacies of property management can be difficult to navigate alone. A letting agent can be your guiding light, ensuring that your property remains legally compliant and that your tenants are trustworthy and reliable. Property professionals specialise in the marketing of your property, tenant sourcing, screening, and the day-to-day logistics of property management. This expertise on your side can be invaluable, especially if you’re a first-time landlord seeking a smoother entry into the market.  

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Some leading experts have suggested that the Bank of England (BoE) could be forced to bring forward its first planned interest rate cut sooner rather than later in 2024 if inflation drops to 2% by April.

Chief economist at Oxford Economics, Andrew Goodwin has expectations that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) will average 2.1% in 2024 – much lower than the November forecast of  3.1%, adding “Inflation is on track to return to the 2% target in April”, which is 18 months earlier than the Bank of England current forecast.

Good news for mortgages

In early January, Andrew Bailey, BoE Governor said this could be good news for mortgages, “Obviously we have had a big change in market interest rates in the last few months, and so the cost of mortgages is coming down… that is feeding through into mortgage costs, and I hope that is something that continues”.

A word of caution

However, it’s worth noting that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted by six votes to three to at its last meeting in December to maintain Bank Rate at 5.25%. The remaining three votes were in favour of raising Bank Rate to 5.5%. This is the second time in a row for such a split vote – and indicates rates may not start to fall soon.

To arrange an appointment with Mundys Financial Services own whole of market mortgage broker, Jessica Bell – please call 01522 556086 or email jessica.bell@mundys.net

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Spring is a time for change, growth, and new beginnings. As flowers spring to life and wildlife returns from hibernation, the brighter evenings are invigorating enough to set any hatched plans into motion. If you’ve thought about finding your perfect home this season, here are some top tips to help you on your way! 

Keep up with market trends 

Depending on your desired location, it can be beneficial to look into which seasons are reliably advantageous for buying and selling. Spring is known for being a period in which the market starts to heat up again as buyers hope to move in time for summer. If you’re unsure about the current market climate, you can take a look at recently sold listings in your current home’s location to get a grasp on the average house value at that time. If homes are selling fast and for good prices, it may be that you need to act swiftly and get your home on the market! 

Research locations 

Few people move simply for a change of scenery, and your next location should be able to accommodate or enhance your current lifestyle. Finding your ideal home may be a difficult task without checking school ratings and crime statistics, and taking the time to drive around the area at different times of day. The internet is a powerful tool, but there is no substitute for first-hand experience, so take any opportunity to meet potential neighbours, try out local business and spend some time in your area of interest before coming to any decisions.

List must-haves vs. wants 

When it comes to finding the right home for you and your family, you will need to establish a good balance of knowing exactly what you want but also remaining flexible. It’s important to write a list of features that you need and what can be compromised so that you can compare and finalise a solid plan. For example, a ‘want’ may be a fourth bedroom, whereas a ‘need’ might be a shorter commute. Every home is different, and each will come with a list of pros and cons which will need to be considered – especially if you’re working within a budget.

Stay search-savvy 

In springtime, homes tend to pop up on the market like daffodils, and they can get snatched up just as soon. Searching for your dream home means keeping an eye on the market for new properties and being ready to make an offer immediately when a listing ticks all the boxes. When market activity is bustling, good properties tend to be gone in a flash, so as a buyer, you may need to be prepared to make an offer within hours of finding and viewing a great home. 

Weigh up what’s affordable 

Your finances will play a big (if not, the biggest) part in finding your new home, so it’s important to take care of this aspect as soon as possible, especially if you’re itching to get moving by summer. Before having a look at any potential properties, it’s important to know your current home’s value so that you can have an idea about the size of your deposit, which will be a key consideration as the higher the deposit sum, the more attractive mortgage offers you will have access to. 

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If you’re looking to sell your property or would like more help with preparing for your next big move, contact us today. Click here

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Registered office Mundys Estate Agents, 29 Silver Street, Lincoln, LN2 1AS. Registered office Mundys Commercial, 30 Silver Street, Lincoln, LN2 1AS.

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