Category Moving

Rental properties have a whole other life when they’re not occupied. While tenants might think the place just sits there collecting dust, landlords know that the period between tenants is anything but quiet. Behind the scenes, there’s a whirlwind of cleaning, repairs, paperwork like a landlord inventory, and last-minute surprises.

So, what really happens to a rental property in that in-between phase? Let’s pull back the curtain and take a peek at what landlords are up to when no one’s living there.

1. The Deep Clean (Aka: Operation Reset)

The moment tenants hand back the keys, the first order of business is getting the place back in top shape. No matter how well someone took care of a property, there’s always something to clean.

Dust finds its way into places no one knew existed. That kitchen sink that looked spotless? Surprise – it wasn’t. And don’t even get started on mystery stains on the walls. Whether it’s hiring professional cleaners or getting hands-on with a bucket and mop, a deep clean is a must.

But before the final wipe-down happens, there’s one crucial step – the landlord inventory check.

2. The All-Important Landlord Inventory Check

A rental might look okay at first glance, but landlords know better than to trust appearances. That’s why they go through a detailed landlord inventory – checking what’s still in good condition, what’s missing, and what’s mysteriously gained a few extra battle scars.

Did the fridge survive? Are all the light fixtures still in place? And where did that dent in the wall come from? The inventory helps answer these questions and ensures everything is documented properly before the next tenant moves in.

It’s also the moment where landlords get a full picture of any damage beyond normal wear and tear. If something needs fixing, this is when it gets added to the to-do list.

3. Repairs, Maintenance, and the Unexpected Surprises

No rental transition is complete without a little bit of drama. Sometimes it’s minor repairs – tightening up a leaky tap, patching up nail holes, or replacing that one broken tile in the bathroom. Other times, it’s full-blown detective work.

Why is the boiler making that noise? When did the kitchen cabinet start hanging off its hinges? And why does the living room suddenly smell like a wet dog?

While minor fixes are expected, a well-done landlord inventory can help avoid major shocks. By keeping track of everything before a new tenant moves in, landlords can fix problems early and keep the property in great condition.

4. Finding the Next Tenant (Aka: Round Two Begins)

Once the rental is cleaned, repaired, and inspected, it’s time for the real challenge – finding the next tenant. Listings go up, viewings are scheduled, and the cycle starts all over again.

And just like that, the rental property is ready for its next adventure with a fresh start, new tenants, and another landlord inventory to kick things off right.

Renting has its perks – no maintenance worries, fewer responsibilities, and the ability to move when life calls for a change. But at some point, the idea of owning your own home starts to feel like the next big step. No more landlord rules, no more rent increases, and best of all, a place that’s truly yours.

Making the jump from tenant to homeowner is exciting but also overwhelming. Suddenly, you’re dealing with mortgages, surveys, and legal paperwork. But don’t stress! With the right approach, you can smoothly transition from renting to owning – and enjoy every step along the way.

Step 1: Get Your Finances in Order

Buying a home is a big financial commitment, so step one is making sure your finances are ready. Start by checking your credit score – the better it is, the better mortgage rates you’ll qualify for.

Next, figure out your budget. Beyond just the deposit, you’ll need to cover things like legal fees, stamp duty (depending on the property price), and moving costs. And don’t forget the ongoing costs of homeownership – council tax, maintenance, and insurance.

If you haven’t already, start saving aggressively. The more you can put down as a deposit, the better your mortgage options will be.

Step 2: Research, Research, Research

Now for the fun part – house hunting! Before you start viewing properties, think about what you actually want in a home. Do you need extra space for a home office? A garden for summer BBQs? Good transport links?

Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves, then start exploring different areas. Prices, amenities, and community vibes can vary massively, even between streets in the same town.

If you’re looking in Sevenoaks or the surrounding areas, working with a Sevenoaks inventory company can help ensure that everything is properly documented before and after your move, giving you peace of mind as you make the transition.

Step 3: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start booking viewings, it’s smart to get a mortgage agreement in principle. This shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and gives you a clear idea of what you can afford.

Speak to a mortgage broker to explore your options – they can compare lenders and find the best deal for your situation.

Step 4: View Properties Like a Pro

Once you start viewing homes, look beyond the surface. Freshly painted walls and stylish furniture can mask underlying issues like damp, poor insulation, or structural problems.

Take your time and ask questions. How old is the boiler? What’s the broadband speed like? Are there any upcoming developments nearby? The more you know, the fewer surprises down the line.

Step 5: Make an Offer & Prepare for the Process

Found the perfect place? Time to make an offer! If it’s accepted, things move fast. Your solicitor will handle the legal work, and your lender will arrange a property survey.

The process can take weeks (sometimes months), so stay patient. Keep communication open with your solicitor and estate agent to ensure things keep moving.

Step 6: Move In & Make It Home

Once the keys are in your hands, the fun begins! Set up utilities, change your address, and start turning your new house into a home. Unlike renting, this space is truly yours – decorate, renovate, and settle in for the long haul.

Transitioning from tenant to homeowner is a journey, but one that’s absolutely worth it. With the right planning and mindset, as well as help from a Sevenoaks inventory company, you’ll soon be walking through your own front door – no landlord required!

Ever walked into a house and just felt it? Like, before you’ve even finished the tour, you’re mentally arranging furniture, picturing cosy evenings, and deciding where the Christmas tree will go? It’s weird, right? But it happens. Some homes just click with us, while others – no matter how stunning – leave us cold.

So, what is it that makes us fall in love with certain homes? Why does one place feel like the one while another, with the exact same number of bedrooms, feels totally uninspiring?

Turns out, it’s a mix of psychology, nostalgia, and pure gut instinct. Let’s dive in.

The First Impression is Everything

We’re all told not to judge a book by its cover, but when it comes to houses? We totally do. That first step through the door sets the tone. The smell of fresh coffee, a flood of natural light, a beautifully kept hallway – these little details trigger an emotional response.

Of course, the logical part of our brain is still ticking away, checking out storage space and looking for dodgy DIY jobs. But deep down, we already know if we’re going to love this place or not.

This is why landlords and sellers go the extra mile to present homes at their best. An inventory clerk plays a big role in making sure properties stay in great condition between tenancies, recording any wear and tear so things get fixed before new occupants arrive. Because let’s be honest—scuffed walls and broken cupboard doors aren’t exactly swoon-worthy.

That Feeling of ‘Home’

Ever noticed how some houses remind you of a place from your childhood? Or how certain layouts just feel right? That’s because we subconsciously look for elements that bring comfort.

For some, it’s a big open-plan kitchen that reminds them of family gatherings. For others, it’s a cosy fireplace, bay windows, or even the smell of fresh paint (weirdly, it signals “new beginnings”).

Even if a house doesn’t tick every box, if it feels right, it’s hard to walk away.

The Little Things Matter More Than You Think – Check Your Inventory Clerks

It’s not always about the big features. Sometimes, it’s the little details that make us fall in love.

• A sun-drenched breakfast nook.
• A deep windowsill perfect for books and plants.
• An old-fashioned doorknob with history.

These tiny details add character and charm. They make a house feel unique rather than just another generic property. And when you’re house-hunting, these little things stick in your mind long after the viewing is over.

The ‘Could I Live Here?’ Test

At some point during a house viewing, you’ll catch yourself picturing your life there.

Maybe you imagine Sunday mornings with coffee by the window. Maybe you start mentally figuring out where your sofa would go. Maybe you realise that the commute would be a dream, or that the local pub has exactly the vibe you love. Maybe the inventory clerks report was a positive one.

When a house starts fitting into your life story, that’s when it becomes more than just a building – it becomes home.

Final Thoughts and Inventory Clerks

Falling in love with a home isn’t just about square footage and location. It’s about emotion, atmosphere, and instinct. The right home speaks to you, makes you feel comfortable and excited at the same time, and somehow just fits.

And behind every well-maintained home, there’s dedicated inventory clerks making sure everything is in top shape before you step through the door. Because sometimes, love is about the details.

Renting a new place is exciting, until you move in and realise it’s not quite what you expected. Maybe the heating doesn’t work, there’s mould hiding behind furniture, or the “quiet neighbourhood” turns out to be next to a 24-hour construction site.

No one wants nasty surprises after signing a lease. That’s why it’s crucial to spot red flags before committing. A little detective work now can save you a whole lot of hassle later. Here’s how to spot a problem property before you get stuck in a rental nightmare.

Don’t Rush the Viewing

It’s easy to feel pressured when rentals are in high demand, but take your time at the viewing. Walk through each room carefully. Check for damp spots, strange smells, dodgy wiring, and poorly fitted windows.

Flush the toilet. Turn on the taps. Check that all the doors close properly. If anything feels off, ask about it. A good landlord will address issues before you move in – a bad one will brush them off.

Look Beyond the Surface

Some landlords get sneaky. A fresh coat of paint can hide damp patches. A strategically placed rug might be covering damaged flooring. That “brand-new oven” might not actually work.

Test everything. Open cupboards, check under sinks for leaks, and don’t be afraid to lift a rug or two. If the landlord races to stop you, that’s your first clue something’s up.

Check the Property Inventory Report

A property inventory report is your best friend when renting. It lists everything in the property, from furniture to fixtures, and records their condition. This isn’t just a boring checklist – it’s your proof if anything is already damaged before you move in.

If there’s no property inventory report, ask for one. If you spot anything missing from the report, flag it before signing. Otherwise, you could end up being blamed (and charged) for damage you didn’t cause when it’s time to move out.

Talk to Current Tenants (If You Can)

If the current tenants are there during the viewing, have a quick chat. They’ll tell you things the landlord won’t, like whether the boiler is unreliable, how quickly repairs get sorted, or if the neighbours are constantly throwing parties at 3 AM.

No tenants around? Take a stroll in the area and check out local reviews. Sometimes, a quick Google search will tell you everything you need to know.

Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, it probably is. A great rental shouldn’t just look good – it should feel right. If the landlord seems shady, the letting agent is avoiding your questions, or there are too many small issues adding up, walk away. There’s always another place.

Final Thoughts

Signing a lease is a big commitment. By taking your time, checking for red flags, and making sure a property inventory report is in place, you can avoid rental disasters before they happen. A little extra effort now means a stress-free stay later – and that’s worth every second.

You’ve packed your boxes, given notice to your letting agent, and are ready to move on to your next home. But before you get too excited, there’s one thing standing between you and a full deposit refund – the final inspection.

Losing part (or all) of your deposit is frustrating, especially when it’s for things you didn’t even realise were a problem. Most tenants expect to cover major damages, but it’s often the tiny, overlooked details that end up costing you. Here’s what you need to check before handing back the keys, so your hard-earned cash doesn’t disappear into your landlord’s pocket.

Marks on the Walls

Scuff marks, tiny nail holes, or even blu-tack stains might not seem like a big deal, but many landlords expect walls to look exactly as they did when you moved in. A few quick fixes can save you from unnecessary deductions – wipe off marks with a magic eraser, fill small holes with filler, and give walls a light clean to get rid of fingerprints or dust.

If you’ve gone all out with bold wallpaper or a bright feature wall, be prepared – you might need to repaint back to the original colour. If you’re unsure, check with your letting agent before making any changes.

Forgotten Light Bulbs & Batteries

It sounds ridiculous, but some tenants lose money over something as simple as a dead light bulb. If a landlord has to replace them, they’ll charge you for it, and it won’t be at the price you’d pay in a supermarket.

Check every bulb, smoke alarm, and remote control before you leave. Replacing them yourself is way cheaper than losing part of your deposit over it.

Dirty Carpets & Flooring

Even if you’ve been careful, carpets collect dust, dirt, and the occasional mystery stain. Some landlords insist on professional carpet cleaning before a tenant leaves, especially if pets were involved.

To avoid charges, give the carpets a thorough vacuum and spot-clean any stains. If the tenancy agreement requires professional cleaning, it’s usually cheaper to book it yourself rather than letting the landlord arrange it (and charge you extra).

Limescale & Kitchen Grime

You might not notice it, but your landlord definitely will. Limescale on taps, showerheads, and kettles is a common reason for deposit deductions, especially in hard water areas. A quick scrub with white vinegar or a descaler will sort it out in no time.

The same goes for greasy oven doors, burnt stovetops, and sticky kitchen cupboards. Even if the rest of the house is spotless, a dirty oven can ruin your deposit refund. Give it a deep clean before your final inspection.

Forgotten Bins & Garden Maintenance

Leaving behind overflowing bins is a surefire way to annoy your landlord, worry your letting agent, and lose money in the process. Make sure all rubbish is cleared out and the garden (if you have one) is tidy. If the grass looks like a jungle, a quick trim could save you from a hefty deduction.

Not Returning Keys & Fixtures to the Letting Agent

Lost keys? That could mean paying for a full lock replacement. Removed curtains, shelves, or hooks? If they came with the property, they need to go back in place before you leave. A quick check of the inventory list will help you avoid last-minute surprises.

Final Thoughts

The little details matter. A missing light bulb, a scuff on the wall, or a greasy oven might not seem like a big deal, but they can quickly add up to deposit deductions.

If you’re unsure about anything, a good letting agent can advise you on what needs fixing before you move out. Taking care of the small stuff now means getting more of your deposit back later, and that’s money better spent on your next home, not on unnecessary charges.

As spring gets closer, there is a surge of enthusiasm and new buyers in the real estate market. There’s no time like the present to start preparing for a home sale in 2023.

These days, house hunting is a lot like online dating. Potential purchasers may dismiss your listing with a quick browse or swipe if it doesn’t look appealing enough. In a competitive housing market, we hope these helpful hints will help you make your property stand out so you can sell it faster and for more money.

Look At It Objectively

There are three primary considerations when looking for a home: cost, proximity to amenities, and square footage. Even though you’re stuck with the space’s physical location and the price is set by market forces, you can influence how potential buyers perceive it.

Those errands around the house that you’ve been putting off should be done immediately. You should expect that potential buyers will judge your home harshly based on imperfections such as a broken kitchen door or peeling paint in the bathroom.

In order to attract buyers, you must take an unbiased look at your home and envision yourself in their shoes when house hunting. After all, you are likely a buyer yourself.

Examining comparable properties within a 10% price range will provide you insight into how other sellers have marketed their own homes. Potential buyers may pass over your home in favour of one that appears more presentable in online photos or during in-person showings if you haven’t made the necessary improvements, so you need to make your property stand out.

Tidy Up And Declutter

Some of us may be shocked by how much clutter may build up in our homes, so it’s best to get started on decluttering as soon as possible. After living in a home for a long time, you may become blind to flaws that potential purchasers may see immediately.

Keep in mind that you are not selling your belongings but rather the actual property itself, so make sure that everything has a designated spot. Ironing boards left out in the open, laundry hampers overflowing, shampoo bottles in the shower, and piles of mail on the kitchen counter all contribute to an untidy and unappealing appearance. This will make your property stand out, but not in the right way.

The same goes for family photos; it’s fine to show a few, but too many will make the room feel awkwardly intimate. Potential buyers may have trouble visualising themselves in the home as a result.

It’s a good idea to declutter and create a blank canvas in the primary areas, such as the living room and the kitchen, so that potential buyers can more readily visualise their own belongings there.

Be Flexible With Viewings

The key to successfully selling your home is often being as accommodating as possible during viewings. The sale of a home can be put in jeopardy if the seller insists on scheduling showings only when it is convenient for them.

If realtors are only allowed to schedule viewings within certain hours, you may have to wait longer to find a buyer. It’s also helpful if your estate agent has access to the property at all times, so they can show it to potential buyers whenever they want. Even though it may not be convenient for you, the majority of prospective buyers will want to visit properties after work or on the weekend. This will make your property stand out.

Plus, try not to be there when viewings take place. It can be awkward for the viewer and could put them off. 

As much as the expense of living and high energy bills might seem like all everyone talks about these days, it’s impossible to deny its recent and dramatic effect on everyone’s life, including homeowners and people in the market to move. Many families have felt the strain of the country’s record-high energy prices.

However, the house you pick could have a major factor in your monthly energy bills. Home Builders Federation (HBF) produced a survey showing that new homeowners can expect to save an amazing £2,600 per year on their energy bills.

In addition, the survey highlighted that new-build buyers saved over £500 million on annual energy bills last year. This is because, compared to older homes, these newer ones only release around a third as much carbon, resulting in a reduction of about 500,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Here are a few considerations that suggest a newly constructed home could be the best option for you.

Everything Is New

Everything from the oven to the dishwasher in a brand-new home is brand-new and has been installed specifically for your arrival. It’s safe to assume that everything will function as it should when you move in. In addition, the fixtures and appliances included in your new home are covered for two years by the new house warranty. And they’ll be more energy efficient, so your energy bills will be lower.

A Blank Canvas

You can put your personal stamp on a brand-new house by decorating it any way you like. There is no need to remove stubborn wallpaper or paint over a bold statement because there have been no previous tenants. Put your unique imprint on your new home since you get to decide how it looks. It might not sound like much, but even this can be a saving on your energy bills.

Modern Living

All new homes are made with the way people live today in mind. They were built on purpose to have a lot of space and natural light. Also, new buildings are made with modern family life in mind and give people more options when it comes to home or hybrid working.

Plus, you’ll usually have much easier access to the outdoors, thanks to things like large patio doors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and communities with open green spaces for everyone to enjoy. You can also rest easy knowing that it was all built to the highest standards, since all new buildings must meet certain rules and regulations.

Money Saving On Your Energy Bills

As was said above, HBF recently reported how much money new homeowners can save each year. To explain what this means in more detail, the report goes on to say that newer homes use a lot less energy than older ones. The average new home uses about 100kWh per m2 per year, while older homes use an average of 259kWh per m2.

This means that if you live in a new house or apartment, you can save an average of £2,000. This is because the average annual costs to run these kinds of homes are around £1,500, while the average annual costs to run older homes are around £3,570. When only houses, not flats and bungalows, are compared, these savings go up to £2,600 a year.

Things change, and when we talk about mortgage terms, most of us are looking at at least a 15- to 30-year commitment. You can’t say for sure that you won’t have to move within that time frame. So, the answer to whether or not you can sell a house with a mortgage probably won’t come as much of a surprise.

Can I Sell A House With A Mortgage Before The Term Ends?

Yes, you definitely can sell a house with a mortgage before the term ends, as long as you can pay for it. This means that the amount you still owe on the loan must be less than what your home is worth. On top of that, you’ll also need to think about any charges for paying off the loan early and any fees you may have to pay to brokers or financial advisors you hire.

As always, it’s very important to do the maths before getting involved. Find your mortgage terms and see if you are still in a period where there are fees for paying off the loan early. Also, find out how much it will cost to pay off your mortgage in full. Keep in mind that this is different from the annual early repayment allowance that lenders give customers who want to overpay their mortgage. This is usually around 10% of the remaining balance each year.

If you are still within the terms of a deal, you may have to pay a fee of 3 to 5% of the amount you still owe to settle up in full.

Do I Need To Let My Lender Know?

Yes, without a doubt. Obviously, you won’t need to do this until you’re sure you want to sell your house with a mortgage, but this is still a call you need to make. Not only will they need to know that a sale may be coming up, but it will also give you a chance to talk about your options, like moving your mortgage (more on this in a bit).

What Happens To My Mortgage?

Most of the time, the money from your sale will be used to pay off (redeem) the loan and any fees you may have owed for paying it off early.

Your conveyancer will ask your mortgage company for a redemption statement and handle the settlement for you. This will end the mortgage deal, giving you the freedom to live without a mortgage or get a new one with the same lender or a different one.

But this isn’t the only way to do it. For some, it makes more sense to keep the mortgage they already have.

Can I Move My Existing Mortgage?

Yes, you can. This is called “porting.” Even though it doesn’t happen as often as redemption, it’s not that rare. Most mortgages can be moved from one house to another when selling a house with a mortgage, and if the conditions are right, you could save a lot of money by doing this.

Porting a mortgage isn’t as easy as just giving your lender a quick call and asking them to change your address. In reality, the process for porting a mortgage is very similar to the process for getting a new mortgage or switching lenders. You will have to reapply and have your finances reevaluated before being accepted. Your new home will also be given an appraisal (which you may have to pay for).

If you are accepted, however, you will keep the same terms as your current deal, including the interest rate you pay now. This can be a good idea, especially when times are uncertain or when interest rates are going up.

When you buy a new house, it’s a major milestone that will improve the quality of your adult life significantly. It is crucial to investigate the property thoroughly before making an offer on it since this will allow you to think through a variety of factors before committing to a purchase.

House hunting is a thrilling experience, but it can turn stressful if you don’t take your time. Carefully consider your needs as a family and your budget before settling on a home. This post will discuss some of the more important considerations you should make when buying a home.

House Size

Depending on the perspective of the camera, a house can look either bigger or smaller in a picture. It’s risky to buy a new house online without first visiting it in person.

The home’s square footage should be proportional to your family’s needs. The number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living space must be appropriate for your needs.

When looking for a house, be sure to tell the estate agent what you want from a home so they will be able to narrow down your options better.

Garden Size

At first, the garden might not be your top priority, but if you have kids or pets, you will want to buy a new house that meets their needs. Even though you can have children and pets in an apartment, it won’t be the best place for you to live.

Ask to look at houses with medium-sized to large gardens that are easy to take care of. Every garden needs to have the grass cut, weeds pulled out, and the edges trimmed from time to time.

When you look at the garden be sure to check the property fence for any problems. That will affect your safety and security, as well as whether or not you can keep your pets inside.

Location

Your new home’s location is pivotal. Especially if you have teenagers, it will be a huge relief to live in close proximity to places like schools, shopping centres, and eateries. Consider the safety of your children as they walk to school and spend time in the garden.

Before meeting with an estate agent, it is a good idea to do some preliminary research on the areas you’re interested in and provide a shortlist of your top ten alternatives. A home’s final price tag will be affected significantly by its location.

Hidden Costs

The process to buy a new house is more complicated than it initially appears, especially if you need financial backing from a financial institution. Closing costs and legal fees are just two of the many unseen expenses that might arise when purchasing a home.

This is important to remember while you look at different houses, as you shouldn’t base your decision just on the asking price.

People say that a picture is worth a thousand words, which is definitely true when you’re trying to sell your home. What can you do to help your home look its best?

Here are some things you can do to get your house ready for photographs.

Your Kitchen

Clear everything off the kitchen counters and put everything back where it belongs.
Don’t show off your tea towels.
Clean your trash can or hide it.
Put some flowers or a bowl of fruit on a table in your kitchen so it’s ready for photographs.

Your Bathroom

Hide the laundry basket and extra toilet paper.
Show off your best toiletries, or don’t show any at all.
Put the toilet seat down.

Make sure your towels are clean and put away in a neat way ready for photographs.

Your Bedrooms

Make sure your bed is clean and, if possible, use white or plain sheets.
Clean off your nightstands and any other furniture in your bedroom.
Put your clothes and shoes away.
Make sure that you can’t see anything under beds or on top of closets.
Put away the kids’ toys.

Ready For Photographs Through The House

Open the blinds and curtains.
Get your windows clean.
Clean/polish every surface.
Hoover/mop floors.

Outside

If you can, move wheeled trash cans.
Put your car somewhere else.
Clean up the garden. Sweep up any fallen leaves and pull out any weeds.
Cut the grass.
Clean the front door.
Add a splash of colour to either side of your front door with hanging baskets or planters.