Blog

Details: Published: 30 October 2023; Hits: 185

So you’ve found the home of your dreams. It’s close to top-rated schools and the nearby amenities are fabulous. But there’s just one problem – you’ve discovered that it’s in a high-risk flood zone! Before you panic and scrap the idea of buying it, it may not be a dealbreaker. There are lots of ways to make it work for you. To help you make the right decision, here are four things you should know and consider before buying a house in a flood risk area.

How prevalent is the problem?

Before you panic too much, it’s a good idea to investigate how prevalent the problem is. Your estate agent can provide information about any past issues and what impact they had on the house. You can also do your own research into the flood plains. You can use the GOV.UK checker to understand how severe the risk is and get a survey completed on the property for personalised advice.

What are the home insurance premiums like?

It’s possible that living in a high-risk flood area can equate to a higher home insurance premium. This is especially the case if there have been claims on the property in the past due to floods. It’s a good idea to get an online quote before you buy to see the potential cost. If it’s higher than you’re used to, it’s important to bear in mind that you may pay less for a property in a high-risk flood zone. So even though home insurance costs will be high, they could balance out long-term.

How important is carpet downstairs?

It’s not completely necessary, but you may want to consider hardwood flooring or tiles downstairs if a home is in a high-risk flood area. This is because it’s usually a lot easier to clean or replace. It can also be much cheaper to replace than new carpets (including underlay and hiring a fitter). If you’re thinking about buying a house in a flood risk area, consider how important it is that you have carpet downstairs beforehand. If it’s a non-negotiable, make sure you’re willing to replace it, potentially on a regular basis.

Are you willing to invest in precautionary measures?

To prevent incidents and excessive damage, it’s a good idea to consider whether you’re willing to invest in precautionary measures when you buy the property. Should a flood occur, there are lots of things you can do to minimise the impact. Rewiring plug sockets so they are higher up and not close to the ground will be an investment, but it could pay off in the long run. Plus, keeping a regular stock of sandbags in your garage or shed will come in handy. These are small measures, but if you’re prepared to invest, floods may not be so troublesome if they occur.

Want more tips?

Here at Warren Powell-Richards, we’d be happy to help you with your search for the right home. We take pride in answering any question you have about a property before buying a house. Contact us today at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Details: Published: 25 October 2023; Hits: 159

Moving house is a pretty stressful event at the best of times, and that’s when everything runs like clockwork.

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always run so smoothly, and there are plenty of potential pitfalls and oversights that you’ll want to avoid if your move is to go as planned.

Here are 6 of the most common moving house horrors you might come across, and how to avoid them.

Not Packing An Essentials Box

As moving day horrors go, this isn’t too bad, but it can be extremely frustrating. Just imagine, you’re sitting in your new pad, feet up on the sofa after a long day and your phone battery is down to the final 2%. There’s a mountain of boxes in front of you, and you can’t remember for the life of you where you put that phone charger. Damn!

Substitute phone charger for kettle and tea bags in the above scenario and you’ve pretty much got the same situation.

Just remember when you’re packing up your old place – keep a box of essentials separate from everything else!

Furniture Doesn’t Fit

This is an awkward one, especially if it’s something valuable or sentimental to you. Equally, if it’s the sofa or a bulky bed, then you might not have somewhere to sit or sleep for a few weeks while you’re waiting on a new one to be delivered.

It’s always a good idea to measure up in advance, unless you have furniture that can be taken apart and easily reassembled, or if you’re lucky the new place might have double doors into the garden so you’ll breeze through the back door with that swanky sofa.

Again, as with most things, preparation is key. If you’ve measured up in advance and there’s just no practical way of getting your bulky furniture into the new place, then at least you’ll have time to donate or sell it and get something new ordered. And on the plus side, it’s one less thing to have to take with you on moving day!

Forgetting To Notify People Of Your New Address

If it’s the in-laws then maybe ‘accidentally forgetting’ isn’t such a bad thing! But on a serious note it’s important you inform a few essential people, such as your bank, employer, and utility providers. After all, you don’t want to be paying for someone else’s gas and electricity in your old place too!

A good way to avoid this is to make a list of all the companies and service providers you use a few weeks before you move, and tick them off as you notify them. It’s also worth getting in touch with Royal Mail and having your post redirected for a few months, as you’re bound to miss someone out.

Damaging Items

If you think your smartphone is fragile, just imagine what could happen to your 60 inch Plasma screen if you drop it! The best way to avoid damage is to package everything overly cautiously and don’t rush. Just remember, you can never have too much bubble wrap, and it’s better to take your time and get everything in the house in one piece than finish by lunchtime and have broken glass on your new living room carpet.

Of course, accidents can happen though, so make sure you’ve got your contents insurance in place ready for moving day. And, if you’re using a removal company, check they’re insured too before you hire them.

Running Out Of Time

If you’re a naturally laidback person then it’s time to focus and be organised. Just for a few weeks at least!

If you’ve never moved home before it can be easy to underestimate how long it takes to get everything packed up, especially if you’re wrapping your valuables well to protect them.

As much as you won’t want to live among boxes for a few weeks before your move, it’s often necessary in order to have a smooth moving day when the time comes.

So unlike your school exams that you didn’t revise for until the night before, don’t leave your packing until the last minute, or you’ll be running around like a headless chicken on the morning of your move!

Getting An Injury

Ok, so you’ll have to be really unlucky to trip over a box and break your leg, but it’s not completely impossible.

A more likely injury is a pulled muscle or a back spasm. Ouch! Just take your time with all the heavy items, make sure you’ve got plenty of pairs of hands to help out, and don’t overstretch yourself!

Talk To The Experts

Here at Warren Powell-Richards, we provide advice that can help you avoid these Halloween horrors!

Details: Published: 17 October 2023; Hits: 163

Buying a property is a significant milestone, but it’s also a major financial commitment. For home buyers, the decision to invest in a property is not one to be taken lightly. Among the many considerations, one common question that often arises is “Should I get a survey before buying a house?”

In this blog, we’ll delve into this important topic and provide you with our expert insights to help you make an informed decision.

Do I Need A Survey On A House?

When you decide to buy a property you’re not just purchasing a home, you’re investing in an asset that can have a significant impact on your financial well-being.

While your estate agent will provide valuable information about the property, they may not uncover hidden issues that could affect your investment. This is where property surveys are crucial.

Why Are House Surveys Needed?

A property survey is a comprehensive assessment by qualified professionals to evaluate a property’s condition and identify any potential problems.

Here are some reasons why we recommend you get a survey before buying a house:

Uncover Hidden Issues: A property may look perfect at first glance, but there could be underlying problems such as structural issues, dampness, or subsidence that only a survey can reveal. By identifying these issues early on, you can avoid costly surprises down the road.
Negotiation Power: Armed with the information from a property survey, you have more leverage in negotiations. If the survey uncovers issues that need addressing, you can use this as a basis for price adjustments or requesting repairs from the seller.
Peace of Mind: Knowing the true condition of the property will provide peace of mind. You can make an informed decision about whether the property is a sound investment, or you should walk away and explore other options.

What Are The 3 Types of House Survey?

Now that we’ve established the importance of property surveys, let’s explore the three main types available to you. Choosing the right survey depends on factors such as the property’s age, condition, and your budget.

Valuation Survey (Mortgage Valuation)

A valuation survey is the most basic type and is primarily for the lender’s benefit. It provides a valuation of the property to ensure it’s worth the amount you’re borrowing. However, this survey doesn’t provide a detailed assessment of the property’s condition, so it won’t uncover hidden issues.

Homebuyer Report

A Homebuyer Report is a mid-tier option that provides a more in-depth inspection than a valuation survey. It’s suitable for relatively modern properties in good condition. This report includes an assessment of the property’s condition and highlights any significant issues that need attention.

Building Survey (Structural Survey)

A Building Survey is the most comprehensive and detailed option. It’s recommended for older properties, those in poor condition, or if you’re planning extensive renovations. This survey covers all aspects of the property, including its structure, materials, and potential problems. Additionally, it provides a thorough analysis of the property’s condition, often with recommendations for repairs or maintenance.

Working with Estate Agents and Surveyors

Navigating the process of property surveys as a UK home buyer involves collaboration with your estate agents and surveyor, so it’s important to make the most of these professional relationships when you get a survey before buying a house.

Working with Estate Agents

Your estate agent plays a crucial role in your property search, but it’s essential to remember that their primary responsibility is to the seller, so here’s how to work effectively with estate agents:

Ask Questions: Ask your estate agent about the history of the property and any known issues. While they may not have all the answers, it’s a good starting point for your research.
Request Permission for Surveys: If you’re seriously interested in a property, ask the estate agent to arrange access for a survey. They can facilitate this communication with the seller.

Working with House Surveyors

Choosing the right surveyor is crucial for obtaining a thorough property assessment. Here are some tips for working with surveyors:

Select a Qualified Surveyor: Ensure the surveyor you choose is a member of a recognised professional body, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This ensures they meet high standards of professionalism and expertise.
Communicate Your Needs: Clearly communicate your intentions and concerns to the surveyor. If you have specific worries or areas you want them to focus on during the survey, let them know.
Review the Report Thoroughly: Once the survey is complete, review the report carefully. If you have questions or need clarification on any points, reach out to the surveyor for explanations.

Knowledge is Your Best Friend

Knowledge is your best ally in making a wise investment choice, so having a professional property survey done before purchasing a property is a prudent decision that could save you from headaches in the future.

If you would like more information regarding house surveys, or for property news in general, then the team at Warren Powell-Richards would love to hear from you. Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We’re looking forward to helping you with your next move.

Details: Published: 17 October 2023; Hits: 172

For Years Homeowners Have Knocked Down Walls To Create An Open-Plan Living Environment!

Both refurbished period homes and new build properties can be found with open plan layouts, but are they the best choice? For years, homeowners have knocked down walls to create an open-plan living environment, but will it work in your property, for you?

While open-plan homes may be on trend, if your family needs different things from their spaces you’ll need to consider open-plan living carefully. With this in mind, if you’re asking “should I opt for an open-plan home layout?” the Warren Powell-Richards have looked into this a little more closely! So, have open-plan spaces had their day or are they still going strong?

Open Plan Living Offers Modern Appeal

For home purchasers who are looking for a modern approach to living, open-plan spaces are still proving to be exceptionally popular. Young couples and first-time buyers are among those who are especially interested in renting or buying a home with an open-plan layout thanks to its contemporary look and feel. The great advantage of open-plan living is that it’s possible to entertain and cook in one room – something that lends itself well in today’s world of social entertainment.

Open Plan Options Eliminate Outdated Layouts

A significant amount of urban housing stock is made up of Victorian terraced homes and those properties often feature layouts that are now obsolete. In the 19^th century, kitchens were hidden away at the rear of the property and were small and unappealing since they were the domain only of servants.

Today, kitchens are far more central to daily family life, so knocking through a small back kitchen into the back or front parlour can create a multi-functional entertaining and family space. This is a great way to modernise older period properties and to make them fit for purpose in today’s world.

Open Plan Can Still Include Separate Areas

The key to success with any open plan living space is to create thought-out zones that meet the differing needs of those who live in the property. Having designated spaces for studying, relaxing, eating, and cooking makes it far easier to manage the practicalities of everyday life and gives the room a strong design that adds character and function.

A well-designed open plan environment represents the perfect way for a property’s residents to enjoy gatherings with family and friends, and to spend more quality time together in a shared space. Even better, an open plan living arrangement can maximise floor space – something that is so important in today’s more compact homes – while also facilitating a better flow for family life.

Is Open Plan Living For Me?

There are certainly some benefits to choosing an open plan home, and if you’re already living in your dream home, it may be worthwhile considering converting your existing layout into a more multifunctional open plan space.

While there are many advantages to open plan living, privacy can be a concern, especially if there are several people living closely. Nevertheless, with clever forethought and skilful design, an open plan home can be the perfect option for modern living.

To find the perfect open plan property for you, get in touch with the Warren Powell-Richards team today on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Details: Published: 17 October 2023; Hits: 347

Selling your home to a property developer can be very different to selling to a homeowner. Even though a sale is a sale, there are certain things to consider before deciding whether it’s right for you.

In this article, we’ll explore what the pros and cons are when selling to a property developer to help you decide if it’s the right path for you.

What Are the Pros?

Chain-Free Sale

Selling without a chain is often highly desirable. You can achieve this with a first-time buyer. But selling to a developer is another way of getting a chain-free sale.

Without a chain, your home can usually sell quicker (meaning you can move quicker). Plus, if you’re buying at the same time, your offer could be more favourable to other sellers.

Less Uncertainty

With every sale, there’s a degree of uncertainty. A buyer could pull out at any time – even a property developer.

However, generally, selling your home to a property developer comes with less uncertainty. Most developers will already have sufficient plans drawn up for your home and are unlikely to pull out at the last minute.

Quicker Sale

There are always hoops to jump through when selling a property that takes time.

But since developers likely invest in property often (and therefore have everything ready – including a solicitor lined up), you can usually get a quicker sale.

No HomeStaging

If you’ve been approached when your home wasn’t listed for sale, you won’t have to deal with home staging entirely when selling to a developer.

What Are the Cons?

Risks of Fall Through

Just like every sale, there are risks that it can fall through. While selling to a property developer can be seen as a guaranteed sale, things can still go wrong.

With a homeowner buyer, pulling out is usually a big decision that people are more reluctant to do when they’ve spent money on searches and surveys. However, if your developer decides at the last minute not to invest, they may not be as concerned about money lost.

Being Out of the Loop

If you’re selling directly to a developer without an estate agent involved, this can have downsides. Even though you’ll be saving on estate agent fees, you could be left out of the loop about how the sale is progressing.

Plus, communicating with the buyer will be entirely in your hands – so if there are issues or breakdowns, you won’t have support from an estate agent to manage the situation.

Sentimental

We often have an emotional attachment to where we live. If you’ve lived in your property for many years, seeing it ripped apart may be emotional and not what you want for your home.

Even though you don’t have control over what happens to your property when you sell it, a developer will almost certainly demolish it or change it entirely. If you’d rather sell to a family, it’s your choice.

How to Decide Whether to Sell to a Developer

Ultimately, deciding whether to sell to a property developer is your personal choice. But if you need help deciding how to sell your home, Warren Powell-Richards are your local property experts and we’d love to chat.