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10 Home Staging Ideas to Help You Sell Your House

Selling a house can be a daunting task, but home staging can make the process easier and more effective. Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its appeal to potential buyers. By following these 10 home staging ideas, you can create a welcoming and attractive environment that will captivate potential buyers.

Make a good first impression:

Enhance your home’s kerb appeal by cleaning the front door and windows, adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door, and incorporating potted plants or flowers on the porch. A well-maintained exterior can make a great first impression on potential buyers.

Get rid of clutter:

The first thing buyers notice is clutter and dirt. Start by decluttering at least 50% of your belongings and packing away personal items. Give your house a thorough deep clean from top to bottom, focusing on floors, windows, bathrooms and kitchen. A clean and decluttered home shows better and appeals to more buyers. Clear off countertops and tables to make them appear neat and tidy. A clutter-free home can make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves living in the space.

Depersonalise:

Temporarily remove family photos and personal artwork to help buyers imagine their own belongings in the space. Consider painting the walls a neutral colour to appeal to a wider range of buyers. Depersonalising your home can make it easier for buyers to see themselves living in the space.

Define the purpose of each room:

Ensure that each room has a clear purpose and is staged accordingly. Remove any furniture that doesn’t belong and add pieces that define the room’s function. Proper lighting and a focal point, such as artwork or a fireplace, can enhance the appeal. Defining the purpose of each room can help buyers understand how they can utilise the space.

Clean and declutter:

Thoroughly clean your home, including floors, walls, and windows. Dust and vacuum regularly to maintain a fresh appearance. Put away any items that are out of place to create a sense of order. A clean and tidy home can make a great impression on potential buyers. Light candles or use plug-in air fresheners with fresh, neutral scents like linen or lavender. Place them in multiple rooms to create a pleasant aroma throughout the house. Buyers want their senses engaged, so appealing scents can boost a property’s appeal.

Enhance with lighting:

Proper lighting can make a significant difference in the ambiance of your home. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light, and strategically place lamps or fixtures to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enhancing your home with lighting can make it feel more welcoming and comfortable.

Rearrange furniture:

Consider the flow of each room and rearrange furniture to maximise space and create a welcoming layout. Remove any oversized or outdated pieces that may make the room feel cramped. Rearranging your furniture can make your home feel more spacious and inviting. Replace bright or patterned soft furnishings with neutral alternatives. Consider beige or grey sofas, plain curtains, and solid colour rugs. Neutral furnishings allow buyers to envision their own belongings in the space.

Add fresh touches:

Incorporate fresh flowers or plants in key areas to add a touch of nature and freshness. Set the table with attractive dishes and silverware to create an inviting dining area. Adding fresh touches can make your home feel more welcoming and comfortable. Place a few indoor plants in living areas to make the space feel fresh, lived in and cared for. Consider low maintenance plants. Live plants boost a property’s appeal and kerb appeal.

Make necessary repairs:

Address any visible repairs or maintenance issues, such as leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or peeling paint. A well-maintained home gives buyers confidence in its overall condition. Making necessary repairs can make your home feel more move-in ready and appealing to buyers.

Consider professional staging:

If you’re unsure about staging your home yourself, consider hiring a professional home stager. They have the expertise to transform your space and create a captivating environment that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Professional staging can help you showcase your home in its best light and potentially sell it faster. Keep up the good work even after viewings. Restage, declutter, clean and replace home scents before each viewing to maintain maximum kerb appeal. The more buyers love your home, the higher the sale price you can achieve.

Remember, staging your home can significantly impact its sale price and time on the market.

If you’re looking for professional assistance with selling or your property, contact Pilkington Estates. Our experienced team can provide expert guidance and support throughout the process.

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Our Goal: Transforming a Forgotten Space into a Haven for Children in Need

We are excited to announce the start of an innovative new partnership between our organization and St. Peter’s Primary School. Our director recently met with Mr. Kumar, the Deputy Headteacher of the school, and we are eager to reveal our plans for a project that has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of underprivileged children in the area.

St. Peter’s is located just a stone’s throw away from Union Street, in one of the UK’s top 5% most deprived areas. It is incredibly upsetting to find out that a significant number of the school’s approximately 120 students, who are enrolled in grades spanning from Nursery to Year 6, live in impoverished conditions. As a consequence, the new school administration and we are working towards the same objective: to instil in these children a rekindled sense of purpose and demonstrate to them that they are valued and have not been neglected.

We plan to start by transforming the school’s garden area. The outdoor space, which has been neglected until now, has the potential to be an unimpeachable haven where children and teachers alike can play and learn. We envision creating a beautiful, safe, and welcoming environment where the students can connect with nature and each other.

Our Director’s Vision

Our director’s vision of this project is the first of many for the school. Meeting many of the kids already has been incredibly humbling. To learn that some of the children have never had the experiences that we may well have taken for granted in our childhoods has been devastating. Something as simple as a courtyard garden to learn how to grow your veg or a flower pot on a balcony for some of these children will never be a reality, and we plan to change that.

“It’s been brilliant meeting with Mr Kumar and some of the other teachers, and it is clear that everyone desperately cares for their pupils and wants them to have something special. The outcome of this magical garden will give many of these children an opportunity they may otherwise never experience. However, our fundamental goal here is to change many of these kids’ thinking; to that of a child who feels valued and appreciated. We want their school to be a haven and one they cannot wait to come into. I know so many amazing people who take pride in the help they give their community, from charity work to some life-changing donations. I would ask anyone who feels they could help in any way and wants to share this project’s enjoyment to reach out. Through changing the mindsets of many of these young children, we can only hope, in the long run, that Plymouth becomes an even better place.”

Our Plan of Action: Working with Local Businesses and Volunteers

To make our vision a reality, we call on local businesses, tradespeople, and volunteers to help us. We seek people with various skills, including landscapers, ground workers, electricians, carpenters, builders, and gardening enthusiasts.

The school’s year groups are currently in the process of drawing their ideas and dreams for the garden. From there, each year group will nominate a representative. The chosen designers will work with our production team until we have finished CGIs and graphics sets for the dream outcome.

We aim to create a vibrant and engaging space to inspire and excite the children, teachers, and volunteers who use it. We want to provide the children with a setting that is both secure and warm, one in which they can learn and develop while also having the sense that they are cherished and appreciated.

We Call Upon Assistance: Join Us in Making a Difference

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you are the proprietor of a company or work in a profession of any kind and are interested in participating in this initiative. By working together, we will make a substantial improvement in the lives of these children and have a beneficial impact on the surrounding community.

We have high hopes that many of these early children’s perspectives will shift as a result of this endeavour and that, as a result, they will be better equipped to have faith in both themselves and the world around them. We want their education to be a sanctuary of refuge where they can escape the pressures of ordinary life and focus on learning about the world around them.

Garden Design

The school’s year groups are currently in the process of drawing their ideas and dreams for the garden. Each year group will nominate a representative to collaborate with our team of designers. The chosen designers will then work together, alongside our production team, to create a finished set of CGIs and graphics for the dream outcome. That’s when the real work will start!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this new partnership between our organization and St. Peter’s Primary School is inspiring. We are starting with the garden area with our shared goal of giving these children back some purpose and showing them they are loved and not forgotten. The school has a sizable outdoor area that, until recently, has been forgotten. Now cleared, we want to give the children and teachers an unimpeachable space to play and learn. With the help of local trades, businesses, and volunteers, we can make this dream a reality and create something magical for these deserving children.

We welcome anybody interested in participating in this initiative to contact us and accompany us on this adventure. Together, we have the power to have a meaningful impact on these children’s lives and pave the way towards a more promising future for the children and the community in which they reside.

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Houses for Sale in Plymouth: Should You Sell During A Cost Of Living Crisis?

Choosing to sell your home is a big decision. 

Regardless of the financial climate, there are always factors to consider when dealing with houses for sale in Plymouth. Moving takes a lot of planning, from examining the market supply to general house prices. 

In 2022, there’s more worry than ever surrounding selling. We’ve seen usual market predictors change due to Brexit and Coronavirus complications. With a cost of living crisis, many residents are tentative before selling and exploring houses for sale in Plymouth and the South West.

However, even in uncertain times, selling your home still relies on affordability, house prices, and general market supply. Are you considering a sale? The best course of action is to chat with professionals, and no one knows the South West property market better than us. 

Selling And Houses For Sale In Plymouth

Don’t put off a sale if you know it’s time for your family to move. Though times seem uncertain now, many successful property deals are happening – especially in the South West and with houses for sale in Plymouth and the surrounding areas.

House Prices

Data from Rightmove suggests overall house prices in the Plymouth area were down 2% on the previous year, yet 8% higher than the peak in 2019. In general, we expect house prices across the UK to fall. Thanks to rising interest rates, higher costs of goods, and general inflation, buyers won’t be able to save as much for deposits. This might lead to people selling up for lower prices. 

Affordability

One significant factor affecting property sales this year is income and the disparity between salaries and house prices.

Many UK buyers will have to stretch their budgets if they want to buy, and this is magnified by the inflated prices of the cost of living crisis. Average properties cost 9.1 times the average salary, yet in 1997 properties were only 3.5 times the average salary. We will likely see house price growth slowing by the end of the year. 

Should You Sell In Plymouth?

While there are many factors to consider, selling in the last half of 2022 is still a good option. Each property transaction is unique and choosing to put your property on the market right now should weigh up all of these impacts. If in doubt, it’s always advised to monitor your finances and keep an eye on the market. Research is always the best route!

The Bottom Line

It’s easy to worry about the state of the market, but if you’re curious about selling, professional property advice is always the best route. Speaking with experienced estate agents can provide bespoke insights and advice for your family. Whether you’re looking for general advice or need help looking for houses for sale in Plymouth, we are here for you.

Want to know more? Connect with our expert local agents online here. We’re always ready to sit down and discuss your property needs. 

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Houses for Sale in Plymouth: How Do Recent Interest Rate Increases Affect The South West?

Whether you’re looking for houses for sale in Plymouth or not, you’ll have likely heard about the Bank of England’s choice to raise interest rates. 

Designed to control inflation, this hike in interest rates has many buyers and sellers worried. How will this affect house prices? Will the market stay stable? And how will this affect the South West?

If you’re concerned about the recent rise in interest rates, keep reading. We’ve got all the information you need to know about this change. Scroll down to find out more. 

What Are The Interest Rate Increases?

So, what’s happening with this interest rate increase?

The aim of this increase is an attempt to return the rising inflation rate to 2%. To combat inflation, the Bank of England has raised interest rates from 1.25% to 1.75%. 

Many banks are still estimating inflation will continue to grow to 13% in the next few months. In June, prices were already up 9.4% compared to prices a year ago.

This is the largest jump in interest rates we’ve seen in 27 years, and it’s likely to affect the property market, the South West, and houses for sale in Plymouth.

Impacts On The Housing Market

It’s estimated that the interest rate increases will slow the housing market. We’ve already seen hints that the market is cooling, mostly due to the rising cost of living prices and less spare cash for deposits. 

Zoopla and Nationwide have already reported monthly house price growth at 0.1%, proving the market traction is beginning to slow. While this might sound worrying, these inflation-caused changes will be gradual. Demand in the UK housing market is likely to drop, but this won’t be a sudden change. 

The higher interest rates will impact anyone entering the property market and those wanting to move up the property ladder. This is due to 20% higher mortgage payments and creeping rates. 

How Does This Affect The South West?

What does this mean if you’re looking for houses for sale in Plymouth and the South West?

The gradual slowing of the housing market will likely be felt across the UK – regardless of county. With rising mortgages, buyers in the South West might hold off for a while until the cost of living and inflation evens out a little. 

However, it’s unlikely that the market will grind to a halt. Everything might seem uncertain right now, but remember, all property sales are unique. If you’re watching houses for sale in Plymouth and the South West, consider talking to the Pilkington Estates team for personalised guidance and expert property advice. 

Plymouth has even been deemed a property hotspot as prices in the UK rise. Find out why Plymouth’s house prices are a hotspot here.

Get Advice from the Experts

Interest rate increases and the increasing cost of living make many of us uncertain about the property market. It’s tough to know where you stand, especially if you’re new to the property ladder. 

However, this situation is constantly changing. Our team of expert property agents are watching and assessing the news, ensuring that they can give real-time advice on all houses for sale in Plymouth. 
Are you looking for some personalised advice? Get in touch today! Contact us online here.

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Best Houses To Buy In Plymouth Near Highly Rated Primary Schools

Deciding to move leaves you re-assessing your priorities. 

From preparing to downsize to getting ready to expand your family, it’s important to take a frank look at your future plans. Knowing your priorities is a vital step in finding the best houses to buy in Plymouth. 

If you know that family life is in your future, there is a wide range of housing factors you need to explore. These include ample space, safety, and, most importantly, proximity to local schools. 

Start your home search journey with ease. Here’s our guide to the best houses to buy in Plymouth near highly rated primary schools. Whether you’re new to the area or not, keep reading to stay in the loop. 

Top Rated Primary Schools In Plymouth

Before we jump into houses to buy in Plymouth, we’ll quickly give you a run down on the best schools in the area. We’ll be using Ofsted data to inform our findings. See the Government’s full report here.

If you’re looking for an Ofsted Outstanding primary school, these are some of the names you’ll want to look out for:

  • St Andrew’s C of E 
  • Mayflower Academy
  • Hyde Park Infants School
  • Elburton Primary School
  • High View School
  • Boringdon Primary School
  • Ernesettle Community School
  • Marine Academy Primary
  • Pilgrim Primary Academy
  • Prince Rock Primary School
  • Holy Cross Catholic Primary

Find out other factors you should consider before moving here.

Houses To Buy In Plymouth Near Outstanding Primary Schools

Here are some available houses to buy in Plymouth and their nearest primary school options. 

Normandy Way, Plymouth

Located in Normandy Way, this three-bedroom property is situated northwest of Plymouth city centre. Based in a quiet area, residents here are treated to the best of both worlds – peace at home and bustle in the nearby city. 

This Normandy Way property is located nearby the Marine Academy Primary, an Ofsted Outstanding option. Other nearby primary schools include Plaistow Hill Infant & Nursery School and St Budeaux Foundation C of E Junior School.

Find the property online here.

Derwent Avenue, Plymouth

Situated on Derwent Avenue, this property is ideal for anyone looking to expand their family. This home provides three bedrooms, a bathroom, and two unique reception rooms – perfect if you’re after more space to grow. 

This semi-detached property is based in the PL3 area, and residents here are within walking distance of High View School – an Ofsted Outstanding primary school. Other primary options include Laira Green Primary School and, further out, Compton C of E Primary School.

See the property online here.

Vicarage Gardens, Plymouth

Searching for a two-bed property? This Vicarage Gardens home provides two bedrooms, two spacious reception rooms, and modern bath space. Perfect for families chasing a calm life, this bungalow is situated on a cul-de-sac close to the River Tamar.

Residents here have access to a range of Ofsted Good schools, including Riverside Community Primary School, St Paul’s Roman Catholic Primary School, and Victoria Road Primary. 

Find the property online here.

Venn Grove, Plymouth

If you’re ready to expand your family, this four-bed option in Venn Grove could be for you. This home boasts four bedrooms, three reception rooms, and two bathrooms. This detached property also provides natural light, three floors, and city-wide views. 

Situated near High Compton, residents in Venn Grove are close to the Ofsted Good Compton C of E Primary School. King’s School is also nearby on Hartley Road, and Pennycross Primary School is also nearby. 

See the property online here.

Ask our location experts!

Will you be relocating with the family soon? Make sure you cover all bases when looking for houses to buy in Plymouth – including local school options! If in doubt, we’re here to help. Our team of expert agents knows the area well, and we’re always ready to provide a helping hand. 
Get ready to find your dream home. Contact our agents here.

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Everything You Need To Know About 4 Bed Houses In Plymouth

Moving is exciting, especially when you’re taking steps towards your dream family home.

4 bed houses in Plymouth are quickly becoming in demand. But before you put an offer on the first home you see, take a step back. Are you sure this is the home for you? Is this your family’s forever home?

Making the final decision can be challenging. Luckily, there are some tried and tested tips to ensure you’re making the best choice for your loved ones. Whether this is your first time looking for 4 bed houses in Plymouth or not, keep on reading. We’re exploring the top things you need to know before selecting your dream family home.

4 Bed Houses In Plymouth: What You Should Examine

Ready to start your home search? Here are some tips and tricks to consider before finalising your choice. Always think twice before placing an offer!

Plan Ahead

If you’re only just starting your family, you might be looking at smaller options. However, do you have dreams of growing your family? If so, plan ahead and widen your search. You might not need a 4 bedroom home right now, but you might thank yourself for that extra space in a few years. 

Flexibility

Does the property have the potential for extensions or alterations? While this might not be a deal breaker for all families, some might have dreams of adding an open conservatory or a loft extension. 

Potential expansions might seem very far away, but it’s always best to factor them into your house search. Don’t limit yourself in the future because you’re in a rush now!

Consider Spare Rooms

If you’re not looking to grow your family any larger, don’t write 4 bed houses in Plymouth off your list. Any extra bedrooms can be transformed into guest bedrooms, home offices, or even a home gym. 

Many families don’t look at larger properties because they don’t plan on using the bedrooms for children. However, if your budget allows it, the extra rooms can benefit your day-to-day living. 

Location

No matter what size homes you’re looking at, location is always a crucial factor to explore. The potential house might seem perfect for you, but if you’re living miles away from amenities or family, you might not enjoy living there.

Of course, each homeowner is different, but make sure you get clear on the type of area you want to live in. Do you require schools? Do you want to live close to healthcare providers? Is green space important to you? Write down your top priorities and include these parameters in your search. 

See our top factors to consider when choosing a Plymouth home here.

Budget

When searching for 4 bed houses in Plymouth, one factor you should never ignore is your budget. It can be tempting to stretch your budget to find the perfect home, but this can lead to lifestyle compromises. 

If you’re unsure where to start with budgets and finances, a mortgage advisor can help you understand the best price range for your family. 

The Takeaway

No one size fits all, especially if you’re looking for your dream home. Looking for 4 bed houses in Plymouth is the first step on your journey to more space for you and your loved ones. Take your search slow and reach out for professional property advice when needed.

Are you interested in taking the first step? The Pilkington Estates team is here to help. We know the local area well, and we’re ready to guide you every step of the way. 

Get in touch with our team online here.

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Embracing The South West: Exploring Houses To Buy In Plymouth

Are you considering houses to buy in Plymouth this year?

After the past few years, we’ve seen a staggering number of UK residents making a move to the South West. Maybe it’s our green space, beautiful coastlines, or friendly locals. We think it’s all three!

But what are the key factors driving these 2022 property trends? In this article, we’re delving into the results of Barclays Mortgages recent findings and why so many residents are kissing city life goodbye. 

Scroll down to read more about moving to the South West and houses to buy in Plymouth and the surrounding areas. 

Results From The Barclay Mortgages Study

Post-lockdown trends are showing that properties with gardens and proximity to outdoor spaces are increasingly attractive to UK buyers. This is excellent news for sellers in the South West, as those from the cities are looking for a change of pace and attractive landscapes. 

The Barclays Mortgages study showed that nearly two out of five subjects (39% of the study) stated a large garden was why they wanted to move. 

While large outdoor spaces were a key pull factor away from large cities, other reasons to move included:

  • Living closer to essential services (29%)
  • Living in an area with space for exercise (24%)
  • Moving closer to relatives (23%)
  • Living in areas with a stronger community (23%)

Though it’s a while since we’ve seen a lockdown, the effects of the 2020 pandemic are still evident in our moving preferences. 

Where Are Movers Coming From?

But, who are the residents choosing to ditch city life?

The study found that residents in Birmingham and London were most likely to move away to the South West. Other areas with eyes for new surroundings include Manchester and Nottingham. 

As jobs continue to offer flexible working and work-from-home roles, we expect this trend to continue for the foreseeable future. Why sit at home in the city when you can enjoy the fresh South West air?

Why The South West & Plymouth?

The South West and Plymouth were among the top picks in the study, but why are houses to buy in Plymouth so popular? 

While there’s a significant push for rural life, it’s not easy to go straight from busy city life to peace and quiet. Plymouth and the surrounding areas offer a perfect mix of the two. You can spend an exciting evening in Plymouth City centre and then retreat to your quiet home for a good night’s sleep.

Also, families tend to be drawn to the surrounding areas thanks to the range of Ofsted Excellent education options. Plus, Plymouth boasts a range of weekend activities for kids, and some you won’t find in cities! 

Other Popular Areas

The South West wasn’t the only desirable area in the Barclays Mortgages study. Movers also had their eyes on other areas.

The other popular areas in 2022 include:

  • Wales
  • Scotland
  • North East
  • South East
  • Yorkshire

A common theme in answers showed that 26% of those asked expressed a desire to live by the sea. Another 23% just wanted to be in a more rural area for a higher quality of life. 

The Takeaway

Will you be making an urban escape this year? Houses to buy in Plymouth are varied and cater to all needs. Whether you’re looking for a family home or a city-centre flat, there are options for all buyers. 

Ready to start? Allow the Pilkington Estates to help. With years of experience in the area and expert knowledge, we’re here to assist you through every step of the move.

Get in touch with us online here. 

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Top Houses For Sale In Plymouth This Summer

Let’s face it, buying a house comes with lots of challenging decisions. From re-arranging your items to selecting a new area, the process isn’t a walk in the park.

The first step for many is deciding on a new area. Once you’ve got an idea of where you want to live, you can start listing the specifics you want from a house. But, what do you do if you’re unsure where you want to go? How can you make such a big decision alone?

If you’re at the start of your moving journey, we’re here to help. Plymouth is a large area, so we’ve curated a list of the best houses on the market right now to make your decision easier.

Ready to get decisive? Here are the best houses for sale in Plymouth this summer.

Rigdale Close

If you’re looking for houses for sale in Eggbuckland, Plymouth, this Riddle Close property could be for you. This sought-after area attracts buyers yearly, thanks to its family-friendly nature and multiple amenities.

Rigdale Close in Eggbuckland

This home boasts three bedrooms, one bathroom, and one reception room – ideal for anyone who wants to settle down with children. An essential bonus of Riddle Close is its cul-de-sac design, so make sure you book a viewing before the property disappears.

Victoria Place

Situated in Stoke, this first-floor flat is here to provide spacious living in a well-connected area. This flat has space for you and your loved ones, with two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a reception room. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about parking again, thanks to an allocated space behind the building.

Victoria Place

If houses for sale in Keyham, Plymouth are on your list, consider this area. Though Stoke is south of Keyham, it provides trustworthy transport links to Cornwall and Exeter, and it’s closer to Plymouth city centre.

Albert Road

Dreaming of houses for sale in Devonport, Plymouth? Meet our Albert Road maisonette. Though this property is located in Stoke, you’re just northeast of Devonport and well-connected to the area.

Albert Road

This property provides two bathrooms, three bedrooms, and one spacious reception room. A key bonus of this space is the property’s large windows, ideal for anyone who wants an abundance of light. Note that this is an investor-only property!

Fairview Avenue

When looking for houses for sale in Efford, Plymouth, don’t ignore Fairview Avenue! This location is also great for anyone searching for houses for sale in Laira, Plymouth, as the road is east of both areas.

Fairview Avenue

This property comes with three bedrooms and unbeatable views. Here, you can enjoy Saltram’s landscape and views of the nearby estuary. Alongside these popular features, the house offers an attic space, an open plan kitchen, and a large family bathroom – everything a family needs to thrive.

Plympton

Located in Elfordleigh, this property is ideal for anyone looking for a luxury space. With an impressive six bedrooms, four bathrooms, and three reception rooms, this property is here to cushion your family and guests if you wish.

Elfordleigh

Located northeast of Efford, this is a must-view for anyone searching for houses for sale in Efford, Plymouth. Remember, always look around your target location to see what local areas can also offer.

The Bottom Line

Where do you imagine yourself in a year? Whether you have a clear vision or no idea, allow Pilkington Estates to guide you into the future. Our team is dedicated to your dream home with a vast network of properties and expert estate agents.

Explore the best Plymouth has to offer today. Contact our team online here.

Want to learn more? Find out Plymouth-based blog content here.

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UK Property Market Growth Reaches 18-Year High

Despite predictions of a slowdown, the UK housing market continues to grow to new highs.

The Halifax House Price Index has released that the property market hit an impressive 18-year high in June 2022, smashing expectations and shocking the nation. With the average price up 13% (rising by 1.8% monthly), there’s no sign of stopping right now.

But what does this mean if you’re considering a move? What should you know if you want to buy houses in Plymouth? Before starting your moving journey, keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

Scroll down to learn more.

What’s Causing the Record Market High?

Experts have been predicting a housing market slowdown for a while, so why are we experiencing a record high?

Russell Galley, the managing director at Halifax, advised that the house prices continue to rise due to the sharp supply-demand imbalance. The director stated, “Demand is strong – though activity levels have slowed in line with pre-Coronavirus averages” Combine this with the low amount of properties for sale, and you have the perfect storm for increasing prices.

Galley also added, “Property prices have been largely insulated from the cost of living squeeze” The director continued to explain that those on lower incomes are typically less active within the housing market. In contrast, higher-income homes are more likely to have extra funds saved up from the pandemic years.

But, how long will this padding hold the prices for? As the rising cost of living sets in, it’s likely that the housing market will also feel the pinch of inflation soon. If you want to buy houses in Plymouth, consider these factors when starting your search.

Will The Housing Market Stay High?

Many prospective sellers might wonder if the market will stay at this level. Property forecasts can be helpful, especially if you’re looking to buy houses in Plymouth in 2022.

It’s unlikely that house prices will remain immune from the changing economic environment, but it’s interesting to see how they can remain unaffected despite crash predictions.

Prices will also depend on what style of house you’re interested in, as detached properties have risen double the rate of flats and apartments over the last year.

So, when you’re considering whether you should buy houses in Plymouth, make sure you take into account what property is best for your family. Are you after a detached home? What price range works best for you?

For more information, find our guide to the top 5 factors to consider when buying in Plymouth.

When Can We Expect A Drop?

Though many slowdowns have been predicted without appearing, we will see a price drop at some point.

Galley has speculated that the increased pressure on home budgets, higher interest rates, and general inflation will affect the housing market sooner rather than later. Property prices have been steadily rising, while wage growth has plummeted. These two factors don’t complement each other, so a slowing of prices will be on the cards in the future.

Also, listings and sales are increasing, but not at a rate fast enough to keep up with house demand. All this information can make it challenging to know when the right time to buy houses in Plymouth is.

The best way to know what works for you is to consult a professional for expert advice. If unsure, the Pilkington Estates team is always here to guide you to a fulfilling property solution. Contact our team here to learn more.

The Takeaway

Navigating the housing market is tough. With rising living costs and an all-time high, getting on the market might seem intimidating. It doesn’t have to be, though! With help from our expert team, you’ll meet your dream home in no time. See our buying guide here to learn more about buying houses in Plymouth.

Ready to chat? We’re here to help! Find out about our specialised Plymouth property services online today.

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Top 5 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Plymouth Home

Aerial view of Plymouth harbour

When you’ve decided it’s your time to move, one of the most important decisions is where you want to buy.

Many buyers will have a potential location in mind already, but it’s always crucial to research your dream area just in case. You never know, you might find a place that suits you and your family better too!

When it comes to houses for sale in Plymouth, there are five distinct factors to consider when moving. Alongside researching these elements, it’s advised that you and your loved ones sit down and work out what your top priorities are. This will help you make the most of your research and land you a successful new home!

Ready to get started? Let’s see what you need to remember when moving to Plymouth.

Local Amenities

Firstly, local amenities are a crucial element to examine when moving. Often, buyers expect to have food shops, healthcare, and other miscellaneous stores within a five or ten-minute drive of their new property.

The closer the amenities are to your home, the higher the property price is likely to be. Many buyers dictate their property search based on proximity to amenities, especially if healthcare is needed frequently. Derriford Hospital is the area’s largest healthcare centre, ensuring all residents can access high quality NHS care. 

Don’t be afraid to put your needs first when looking for houses for sale in Plymouth. You never know; you might find your dream within walking distance of your most important amenity!

Transport Links

Another all-important factor to consider is local transport links. These include local buses, national railway networks, and roads for private vehicles. Unless you love your own space, it’s essential to be connected with the rest of the world!

Area profiles and online transport websites are great resources to check when completing your house search. If you’re a frequent traveller, you might also want to check the local airports, as these are essential for business travel! Plymouth’s closest airport is Newquay airport, but watch this space! We might see the original Plymouth Airport opening in the future.

Schools

This factor might not concern all Plymouth buyers, but if you’re planning to start a family, schools are a key amenity you should be on the lookout for. 4 bed houses in Plymouth near schools get snapped up fast, so mention this to your estate agent to get notified when local homes become available.

Plymouth offers various options for all ages, from primary and secondary schools to universities. Also, 13 local schools have received an Ofsted Outstanding rating too.

Job Opportunities

What do you do for a living? While many now work from home, looking for nearby jobs and industries is vital when you’re moving house. There’s no point moving miles away from your profession, so check ahead to save stress.

Plymouth boasts a range of industries, including a vibrant hospitality scene, professional corporate roles, and many healthcare roles. Whatever you specialise in, there are houses for sale in Plymouth that can meet your needs.

Entertainment

Finally, make sure you also examine local entertainment options. While entertainment isn’t the most important factor on this list, it’s still worth considering. Life is dull without enjoyment!

Popular entertainment options in the Plymouth area include drinks and dinner by the waterfront, exploring the local coastline and green spaces, and exciting theatre culture.

Top-rated activities include:

  • Saltram
  • Plymouth Gin Distillery
  • The Barbican
  • Smeaton’s Tower

There’s always time for a memorable night out here.

The Bottom Line

When finding houses for sale in Plymouth, it’s important to know what you want before you start searching. House hunting can be stressful, but the best way to combat nerves is to have a mental list of your priorities. So, what are you looking for?

If you’re ready to start your housing journey, allow the Pilkington Estates team to guide you. With expert knowledge and years of experience, our team is here to help you find your forever home. Contact us here.