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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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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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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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Area Profile: Plympton St Mary

Choosing a new home is exciting. If you’re considering moving house in Plymouth, make sure you assess all suburbs before making your final decision. This coastal area is packed with gems, such as Plympton St Mary.

Plympton St Mary is a pleasant area to live in with a friendly atmosphere and close proximity to green spaces. This area makes up part of Plympton, a suburb of greater Plymouth.

Are you interested in Plympton St Mary? Keep reading to learn about this area’s facilities, transport, safety, and more. We’re here to help you decide!

Scroll to explore this area in more detail.

About Plympton St Mary

Situated northwest of Plymouth, Plympton St Mary is a parish with a population of 12,891. If you are interested in enjoying family life near the city with a quiet hometown, this is an area to consider.

Plympton St Mary is part of Plympton, a larger area five miles away from the city. Around this area, you’ll find historical sites, quaint streets, and the popular Plympton Castle. Could this area be your new home?

Transport and Connections

Transport in Plympton St Mary is good, but many residents choose to use personal vehicles to get around. Locals travel in and out of this area via the B3416 and the A38. 

Public transport in Plympton St Mary includes the bus routes 21, 21A, 20A, and 59. All of these stop by Plympton St Mary’s church, allowing residents to access the city centre easily. Mudge Way bus station is also very close to Plympton St Mary.

Though Plympton St Mary doesn’t offer a train station, you can be at Plymouth’s central station within 30 minutes via bus. From here, you find connecting trains to London and other areas of the UK via CrossCountry and GWR trains.

Local Facilities

Facilities in Plympton St Mary are all-encompassing. Everything you need to thrive as a family, from motor schools to wedding photography, is included in this area.

There are a range of grocery stores here, including a large Aldi for home supplies and food. However, if you prefer to eat out, you can find a range of pubs and restaurants. Popular spots include The Colebrook Inn and The Lord Louis.

Plympton St Mary offers The Ridgeway Practice, Glenside Medical Centre, and Plympton Health Centre, ensuring all families are covered with health care. The NHS Derriford Hospital is located west of the area, and buses frequent this stop.

The Ridgeway Shopping Center is another popular sport for retail needs.

Family Life in Plympton St Mary

Plympton St Mary is a popular spot for family life, thanks to an abundance of schools and good GCSE results. In 2015, 53.5% of pupils achieved at least five A*-C GCSE grades, a statistic which continues to rise.

There are eight primary schools across the Plympton area, allowing parents choice and flexibility regarding important educational decisions. Alongside primary school options, Plympton Academy is close by for secondary education. 

Two Ofsted Outstanding schools are located here, the Boringdon Primary School and Elburton Primary School. Explore local schools in detail here.

Safety In The Local Area

Safety is one of the most important aspects of home hunting, especially if you’re moving with younger children.

When it comes to crime, Plympton St Mary has lower antisocial behaviour than Plymouth city centre. Criminal damage, domestic abuse incidents, and serious crime are also lower.

In general, Plympton St Mary’s crime is much lower than Plymouth’s, making it a pleasant area to live and raise a family in. See the full Plymouth City Council report here.

House Prices

Are you interested in the average house prices in Plympton St Mary?

Moving to this Plymouth area costs just below the UK house average, as the average house price in Plympton St Mary costs £233,051.

Here, you can expect to spend approximately £199,215 on a terraced house, £142,875 on a flat, and £225,506 on a semi-detached home. Detached houses approximately cost £329.489.

Get in touch today if you’re ready to make the all-important move. Find our buying services here.

The Bottom Line

For a laidback life surrounded by amenities, schools, and cultural land sites, Plymouth St Mary could be your next home. Popular with all demographics, this area provides a friendly community and a taste of city life on your terms.

Ready to take the next step? Contact the Pilkington Estates team here.

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Should You Retire In Plymouth?

Did you know 64% of Brits want to retire in a new area?

A 2021 index study saw that more than half of Brits want to retire in a new location. But that’s not all they found! Plymouth was also voted one of the top 10 UK cities for retirement. We’re not surprised. With beautiful scenery, good amenities, and a friendly spirit, Plymouth is an area that suits all demographics.

Let’s delve into why Plymouth is so popular for retirees to help you decide whether Britain’s Ocean City is for you. Enjoy!

The Study Results

Created by HeatingForce, the retirement index study was designed to determine which UK areas are the most popular with retirement-age citizens. This study looks at various factors to get a broad image of what matters to our seniors.

Factors to consider include:

  • Annual sunshine
  • Healthcare quality
  • Crime levels
  • Leisure activities
  • House prices

3435 adults over 40 were questioned, and the majority stated that new experiences were the reason behind their wanting to relocate. The main reason those who wanted to stay put through retirement was proximity to family and friends.   

At the top of the list was Norwich, scoring 925 and taking the top spot for retirees. Plymouth came in at sixth place with a score of 682, beating out other UK cities, including Leeds, Portsmouth, Dundee, and Aberdeen.

And the worst places? At the bottom of the list was Coventry – voted the worst place to live and relocate with only 13 points.

Why Retire In Plymouth?

So, why should you choose Plymouth for your retirement? Let’s look at the advantages of relocating to this southern city.

Coastal Lifestyle

Perhaps one of the biggest attractions, Plymouth is situated on the waterfront. In later life, a coastal lifestyle can’t be beaten. With cleaner air, a relaxed pace of life, and natural beauty, the benefits of living by the coast are endless.

Entertainment Opportunities

Plymouth offers excellent views and beautiful landscapes, but what else is there to do here?

With a bustling waterfront area, historical museums, and cultural festivals, there’s always a new way to enjoy your weekend in this city. Plus, the city receives a tourist buzz in the summer, allowing you to feel like you’re on holiday when you’re at home.

Friendly Locals

Though Plymouth is a city, there’s still a small-town community feel here. 18% of Plymouth’s population is 65 or older, so you’ll meet like-minded friends who also want to enjoy their retirement in the coastal city. Communities with the largest number of elderly residents include Plymstock Dunstone, Plymstock Radford, and Plympton St Mary.

Health Amenities

When it comes to retirement, you want to be living near good amenities, including healthcare providers. Plymouth boasts a range of healthcare centres, including the Derriford Hospital and NHS Plymouth, ensuring all residents are taken care of. Alongside these significant centres are many private healthcare providers, GP clinics, and dental surgeries.

Final Thoughts

Is retirement on the radar for you? Start planning your retirement now, especially if you’re gearing up to relocate. With an abundance of fun, healthcare, and affordable house prices, there’s no wonder Plymouth is in the top 10 UK cities to retire in. Are you ready to experience Ocean City?

If you’re ready to move, allow our experts to guide you. Contact the Pilkington Estates team today to learn more.

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Plymouth Becomes A Hotspot As House Prices Rise

Plymouth has been revealed as one of the property hotspots of the UK due to rising house prices. Exciting news for sellers, who may get more than they bargained for when selling their Plymouth property.

Thanks to Rightmove’s data, Plymouth’s popularity is more evident than ever. With excellent connections, tourism, and an exciting vibe, who wouldn’t want to live in the Ocean City?

Keep reading to explore the reasons behind these figures.

What’s Happening To Plymouth’s House Prices?

The Rightmove data showed the general rising trends in the UK and which cities have the most interest in 2022.

Plymouth was placed fourth on the list, making it into the top 5 property hotspots nationwide. The average house prices in Plymouth are now £231,914, and the area has seen a 12.5% rise in price.

Since lockdowns and the boom of remote working, more and more families are looking to cities like Plymouth to settle down. Instead of living in busy cities, homeowners seek alternative areas for better family life and natural landscapes.

Plymouth offers the best of both worlds. This city provides a unique coastline and gorgeous natural areas, yet the city centre never stops and gives locals a chance to eat, drink, and enjoy.

Other Property Hotspots

Alongside Plymouth, the Rightmove survey highlighted house prices rising in other UK areas.

At the top of the list is Bath, with a 15% jump in asking prices. This is the most significant increase on the list, proving Bath’s current popularity.

The second spot was taken by Truro, with a 14.8% jump in prices – proving the popularity of coastal areas. Other locations taken in the top five include Gloucester and Southend. It looks like the country and the coast are the two in demand areas for 2022.

General UK Property Trends

What’s causing this increase in some regions of the market?

Rightmove’s Director Of Property Data, Tim Bannister, noted “Since the pandemic started, we’ve been tracking interesting changes in buyers’ relationship with cities. In the first stages of the pandemic, we saw the popularity of some major cities like London temporarily drop as more people looked for more space.”

If there’s one thing the last few years have taught us, the large majority is looking to slow down. The once-popular London life isn’t the rage, and buyers are searching for alternative options.

House prices are shooting up as the demand outweighs the supply. If you’re considering selling your Plymouth home, now is a great time to get on the market for a great price.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s important to note the general property trends in your area. It’s exciting to see this extra interest in Plymouth, as this city has so much to offer. From tourist attractions to quaint streets, this city is a gem on the English coastline.

Are you ready to move? The Pilkington Estates team is always prepared to provide expert help and tailored advice. Contact us here.

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Pilkington Estates Broadens its Territory from Plymouth, Devon to Cornwall: Exciting News for Property Buyers, Sellers, and Investors!

Pilkington Estates, your trusted Plymouth and Devon estate agent, is excited to announce our expansion into the fascinating region of Cornwall! This innovative venture demonstrates our dedication to providing outstanding real estate services in the broader selection of scenic locations.

What Does This Mean for You?

  • Expanded Real Estate Services: Pilkington Estates is now your comprehensive solution for all real estate needs in Cornwall and Devon! We offer a variety of real estate services throughout both regions, ensuring a seamless experience whether you’re buying or selling. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process, making it easier and more convenient for you to manage all your property needs. Let Pilkington Estates be your trusted partner in real estate. Contact us today!
  • Unmatched Local Expertise: Our team boasts deep-rooted experience in the Plymouth real estate market, and we are excited to extend this expertise to Cornwall. This local knowledge provides us with the ability to offer you unparalleled insights and support, whether you’re navigating the bustling property market in Plymouth or searching for your dream home in a charming Cornish village. Let Pilkington Estates guide you with expert advice tailored to your needs.
  • Unlocking Investment Opportunities: The Cornwall housing market is thriving, and Pilkington Estates is here to help you capitalise on this exciting trend. Our Pilkington Estates expansion allows us to provide you with a wider variety of Devon to Cornwall properties, as well as profitable investment options in both locations. Are you looking for real estate investment options in Cornwall? Contact Pilkington Estates now to schedule a free consultation!

Seamless Property Transactions Across Devon and Cornwall
Our dedication to offering a stress-free and successful property experience remains our number one goal. Pilkington Estates will help you through the entire process of purchasing, selling, or investing in property from Plymouth to Cornwall. Our experts will handle the paperwork and regulations so you can concentrate on the exciting elements of your property adventure.

Are you thinking of a lavish open space home in Cornwall?
This beautifully presented 3-bedroom cottage near Saltash is perfect for a family. It has a modern open-plan living space with a high-spec kitchen, a main bedroom downstairs, and two more bedrooms upstairs. There’s a stylish bathroom and a landscaped garden with a patio and a summerhouse. The property also has off-road parking.

Ready to Take the Next Step?
As Pilkington Estates expands into Devon and Cornwall, we’re eager to help you achieve your property goals. Contact Pilkington Estates immediately to discuss your property requirements in Devon or Cornwall. Allow our professional staff to assist you in finding your ideal home or maximising your return on investment!

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Considering A Mortgage? Here’s All You Need To Know

Choosing to move from renting to a mortgage is a significant decision. But, the change doesn’t have to be a scary one!

While a mortgage is likely to be one of the most significant financial commitments you’ll make, plenty of great deals are around. Before you jump into finding a Plymouth mortgage, make sure you’re aware of the factors that could affect your eligibility.

From credit scores to debt, there’s a vast range of things to consider. If you’re unsure where to start, keep reading! We’re here to help you find the mortgage that suits your needs.

Top Tips To Remember When Finding A Mortgage

Here are some of the most important factors to consider when looking for a mortgage. Don’t forget these!

1. Check Your Credit

Before you apply, find a copy of your credit report. This will be held by credit reference agencies (for example, Equifax or Experian). Checking your credit report beforehand will allow you to see what lenders will see when they receive your application.

Don’t worry if your credit score isn’t the best; there are many tricks to give it a quick boost. This includes closing credit cards you no longer use or checking whether you’re on the electoral roll.

2. Review Any Debts

Potential mortgage lenders will see if you have any outstanding loans or credit card debts. If you know you have some outstanding payments, try to reduce these as much as possible to show the lenders you’re on top of money management. This will improve the chances of your loan being approved, plus you may be able to borrow more.

3. Remember The Deposit

When it comes to finding a mortgage, saving for a large deposit is one of the most important tips. The more you can offer for the initial deposit, the broader choice of mortgages will be available to you. The best rates go to those with more significant deposits, plus you’ll also receive lower monthly payments due to your better deal. Of course, saving for longer isn’t always possible – but if you can delay your application, you’ll save in the long run.

4. Get Your Records Together

Mortgage lenders need to see proof of income, so make sure you have a P60 form ready for your application. This form summarises your annual income, plus all tax deductions. Many lenders also ask for three months of payslips and bank statements to assess how much you’re spending vs how much money is coming in.

This process can be much more complex if you’re a freelancer or self-employed. Mortgage lenders want assurance that you’ll be able to keep up with payments. To prove that you can, ensure that you have a SA302 form (from the HMRC) that shows the last three years of earnings.

5. When In Doubt, Ask For Help

At the end of the day, cementing an excellent mortgage deal can be confusing. If you’re unsure how to proceed or who to talk to, professional advice can make the experience much easier.

The Pilkington Estates team is always here to help. Whether it’s your first mortgage or not, we want you to find the best loan for your needs. We can connect you with an Independent Mortgage Advisor to make the moving process stress-free. Find our bespoke mortgage services here.

Final Thoughts

Is it time for you to apply for a Plymouth mortgage? Our knowledgeable team is here to help you throughout the moving process, from buying to selling. Contact us here for personal advice and expert property services.