Here at Knightsbridge Estate Agents, we are passionate about all things property. Our blog is a space where we share valuable insights, expert tips, and the latest property buying, selling, and investing trends.
As experienced estate agents, we understand that navigating the property market can be exciting and overwhelming. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or a homeowner looking to sell, our blog is designed to be your trusted resource throughout your property journey.
If you’re a landlord, the deadline for filing your 2023-2024 income tax return is fast approaching.Here are some important things you need to know. 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗮𝘅 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 The next deadline for self-employed landlords is 31 January 2025 (unless HMRC has notified you otherwise). This doesn’t apply if
This December, Knightsbridge Estate Agents is proud to support Toys on the Table, a Leicester-based charity dedicated to bringing smiles to children in need during the festive season. From 1st to 20th December, our offices in Clarendon Park, Oadby, and Wigston will serve as official donation points for this wonderful
The latest Consumer Prices Index (CPI) released by the Office for National Statistics revealed that inflation increased from 1.7% in September to 2.3% in October. But how exactly does inflation impact the property market? There is a link. But it is not quite as simple as it might seem. When
Grey, cloudy days and darker nights don’t show your property to its best advantage. So, here are a few simple lighting tips that will help turn your home from dull to brilliant. They’re ideal when you’re doing winter viewings. Make your house shine out Garden lighting will boost your property’s
After more than 14 amazing years as a cherished member of the Knightsbridge Estate Agents family, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Michelle, who is retiring to embrace an exciting new chapter in her life. Many of you will know Michelle as the friendly face who welcomed you on property
Despite greater awareness and tougher legislative measures, mould can still be a significant issue for landlords and tenants. A new survey has found that 43% of tenants have experienced problems with mould and damp in their rental*. And cases appear to be becoming more – not less – prevalent. Experts
The Oadby Festive Light Switch-On was truly a night to remember, filled with festive cheer, bright lights, and lots of smiles! We were thrilled to host Santa & Olaf at our Knightsbridge Estate Agents office and welcome so many of you to join in the fun. Thanks to your incredible
Let’s face it – doing property maintenance isn’t many people’s idea of a good time. However, keeping on top of maintenance can help ensure your property’s value in the long term. Here are our top three tips for maintaining your property’s value over time. Roofs are often neglected. But they
The Bank of England (B of E) announced that the base interest rate will be cut by 0.25 to 4.75%. This is good news for the property market. Why? The B of E’s base rate influences the interest rates many lenders charge for mortgages, loans and other types of credit
Unfortunately, when the nights get longer, this time of year can be open season for burglars looking to target your home. Now is the perfect time to review your home security and see what improvements you can make. Here are three tips to improve your home’s security. Some of the
The Bank of England meets tomorrow (Thursday 7 November) to set the official Bank Rate or base rate as it is also known. This is the rate that banks and building societies use to set the interest rates they charge borrowers. The last interest rate reduction was in August, from
Have you ever wondered how some landlords seem to run successful portfolios and others don’t seem to crack the rental property puzzle? In our experience, we’ve seen what the best do that the rest don’t. And the answer is surprisingly simple; they do the basics brilliantly. The best landlords have
With PM Keir Starmer warning it would be painful, the new government’s first Budget has been hotly awaited for some weeks now. In this article, we’ll look at what the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, announced – paying specific attention to what will affect the property market. The Chancellor
New data shows the mortgage market has bounced back from the turbulence of two years ago. Think back to this time in 2022, and you’ll recall the mortgage market was in complete disarray. In the aftermath of the Mini-Budget, there was a frenzy of activity – none of it good
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a big news story in the property rental world right now. And there are lots of myths and inaccurate information being punted around. In this article, we’ll give you straight answers to three of the most common questions landlords are asking us. Will I be
As the season of cosy scarves, warming hot chocolate, and dazzling fireworks approaches, we’re thrilled to announce a special giveaway! This year, we’re giving away 10 family tickets to the ever-popular Aylestone Park FC Family Firework Display! About the Event: Aylestone Park FC’s firework display has become an iconic event
PM Keir Starmer has already issued a warning that next week’s Budget will be painful… to help fill a ‘£22 billion black hole’ of debt. So, could this Budget be painful for homeowners? In this article, we’ll take a look at what Chancellor Rachel Reeves might be planning. Capital gains
After months of fevered speculation, Chancellor Rachel Reeves will unveil her autumn Budget next week (Wednesday 30 October). As the announcement could have important implications for landlords, let’s consider what might be included in it. But first, a caveat Leaks and rumours accompany the lead-up to any major fiscal event,
The weather is dreary. Christmas is on the way. So, right now is an absolutely terrible time to jump into the housing market. Isn’t it? No! Let us explain why. 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘇𝗶𝗲𝗱. The property market is less frantic in autumn than in spring. This means you have more time to
Cuckooing is a crime that puts your tenant’s well-being at risk and leaves you, as the landlord, facing an array of legal issues.If you own a rental, here’s what you need to know. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘁? ‘Cuckooing’ is when a gang moves into someone’s home and uses it as a
The Negotiator has announced the finalists for “The Negotiator Customer Service Awards 2024 powered by View Agents,” recognising the highest-rated estate agents in the UK based on customer reviews. We are thrilled to share that Knightsbridge Estate Agents has been shortlisted in the top 20 for the East Midlands region,
Welcoming a new tenant can be exciting for landlords, but it also requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth transition.Here are five steps landlords should take before handing over the keys. 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵 Conduct a thorough inspection and address any minor issues that you pick up. Also, consider a
With the days getting shorter and colder, dopamine décor could be just the thing to liven up your living space and lift your mood during the darker months. So, let’s take a look at this popular design trend and how it can transform a drab and dreary home into something
When considering the purchase of a ‘doer-upper’ – a property that requires refurbishment – landlords are often faced with a Shakespearean (ish) question: “To buy, or not to buy?” It’s an important decision where you must weigh up several important factors before choosing to invest or not. Below are five
Rightmove has unveiled a new tool to help calculate how much renovation works add to the value of a property. How does it work, and is it any good? Let’s find out. To renovate or not to renovate? It’s a common property dilemma to which there isn’t a straightforward answer.
A well-balanced living environment can greatly improve your physical and mental health.Here are three tips to help you create a healthier, happier home. 𝟭) 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 Research has shown that clutter can increase stress levels and negatively impact mental health.Focus on one room at a time and donate, recycle
In the past we have worked closely with Gez Varney and Community Wishes (Leicester). Today they were contacted by Leicester General Hospital to advise they are running extremely low or don’t have any of the following items for the new born babies: Baby Grows for Tiny / New BornFull Baby
What do Tinder and Bumble have in common with Rightmove and Zoopla? The answer is quite a lot. Let us explain. 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀On average, Tinder users spend less than seven seconds looking at a profile before deciding whether to swipe right. Property sellers, too, only have a few seconds to
We are incredibly proud to share that our fantastic team members Jake, Amy, Stacey, and Jess took the leap—literally—by completing a skydive in support of LOROS, raising an impressive £2,183! This thrilling event was part of a larger campaign that has so far raised £18,030 for the cause, with the
We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Amy, who has been an integral part of both our Clarendon Park and Oadby offices, to the role of Assistant Manager. Amy joined us without prior experience in estate agency, but her dedication, passion, and willingness to learn have been truly inspiring.
If you’re new to the buy-to-let market, here are six property pitfalls to avoid. 𝟭) 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁𝘀 It’s important to have a contingency fund to cover repairs, safety inspections, void periods and emergencies. 𝟮) 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘃𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 A problematic tenant can cause endless headaches, so always conduct background, credit and
Becoming a homeowner for the first time is exciting, however it also comes with a host of responsibilities. Thankfully, many useful apps are available to make life easier for homeowners. Here are three of the best. 𝟭) 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗾Schedule your home maintenance with this app so you never forget to water
The Bank of England has just announced its decision on interest rates. And the decision is… to keep the interest rate on hold at 5% for now. In this post, we’ll look at what the interest rate decision might mean for the property market over the rest of 2024. First,
Here’s a warning if you’re considering helping your child to buy their first home. Law firm Brindley Twist Tafft & James has revealed it is seeing a rise in disputes relating to the Bank of Mum and Dad (Bomad). The problem occurs if the child – helped by Bomad funds
First-time buyers might be getting older, but when it comes to landlords, it’s a different story. Back in 2014, the average age for a landlord purchasing a rental with a buy-to-let mortgage was 46.4. According to a new survey*, by 2023, that figure was down to 42.9. 𝗔𝗴𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻The survey
This week is UK Savings Week (9 – 15 September), so there’s no better time to take control of your finances. Here are three tips to get you started on your savings journey. 𝟭) 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀Review your bank statements and identify subscriptions and memberships you no longer
The UK housing market is experiencing a period of steady recovery, according to the latest data from Zoopla. Here are the headline figures: ◾ Buyer demand rises as mortgage rates fall. ◾ Mortgage rates fall to 4.5% for 5-year fixed-rate deals. ◾ The number of homes for sale hits a
Are landlords leaving the rental sector en masse, as some have claimed? We’ve crunched the latest numbers, and there is some movement. But is it an ‘exodus’? Not quite. Zoopla’s July data showed one in eight properties for sale was previously a rental. However, 40% of these homes are expected
Clarendon Park, Knighton & Stoneygate homeowner or landlord? Curious about the trends in the Clarendon Park, Knighton & Stoneygate’s property market? One measure is the average price paid for homes bought and sold in Clarendon Park, Knighton & Stoneygate in the last 12 months, on a rolling month by month
Wigston homeowner or landlord? Curious about the trends in the Wigston’s property market? One measure is the average price paid for homes bought and sold in Wigston in the last 12 months, on a rolling month by month basis. Each month we like to share this figure, and whilst this
Oadby homeowner or landlord? Curious about the trends in the Oadby’s property market? One measure is the average price paid for homes bought and sold in Oadby in the last 12 months, on a rolling month by month basis. Each month we like to share this figure, and whilst this
Leicester homeowner or landlord? Curious about the trends in the Leicester’s property market? One measure is the average price paid for homes bought and sold in Leicester in the last 12 months, on a rolling month by month basis. Each month we like to share this figure, and whilst this
Is the rental market running hot or cold, and what can we expect in the coming year? Let’s dig into the latest data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) and property portal Zoopla to find out. Taking stock Unless you spent 2023 hiding under a rock, you’ll know that
Should you move or improve? It’s a question an increasing number of homeowners in Leicester are asking themselves. And it’s a big decision with lots of things to weigh up. In this article, we list some pros and cons to help you gain clarity about what’s best for you. Moving:
Over the last few months, there have been lots of scare stories in the popular media claiming that Section 21 no-fault evictions will soon be banned – and that landlords will not be able to evict their tenants if they need to. In this article, we put the story straight
At Knightsbridge Estate Agents we believe in recognising and nurturing talent from within. It’s this commitment to our people that has driven our success and will continue to propel us forward. Today, we’re excited to share some fantastic news that reflects our dedication to growth, both as a business and
Throughout August, we’ve been running our Community Cheerleader campaign. It’s where we’ve shouted from the rooftops (and blog posts) about the importance of supporting our neighbourhood together. Here’s the final offering from our five-part series, which looks at eight ways we can all make a positive difference locally. Volunteering is
The new government has confirmed that VAT will be added to private school fees very soon. In this article, we look at what this might mean for house prices in areas with good state schools, and for house buyers and sellers there. What’s happening? In their election manifesto, Labour said
Selling a home can be stressful, no matter what your circumstances. But the moving process can be even more complicated if you’re a parent with young children. Juggling work commitments and the needs of your offspring while ticking off all your sales prep chores can be daunting. So, here are
Property experts often advise sellers to style their home before they put it on the market. Go the extra mile with presentation, and buyers will be impressed by what they see and smell, or so the theory goes. But do the same styling rules apply to landlords hoping to attract
Throughout August we are running our Community Cheerleader campaign. It’s where we shout from the rooftops (and blog posts) about the importance of supporting our neighbourhood together. Here’s part four of our five-part series, which looks at how we can all take steps to improve the natural environment in our
When estate agents tell sellers not to over-personalise their property, what do they mean? Here’s a real-life tale that explains all. The story appeared in the Daily Mail a few months back and centres around a three-bed semi that had been painted Barbie pink inside and out by the property’s
Did you know that a blaze is seven times more likely to start in a rental property than in a home occupied by the owner?* It’s a shocking statistic that underlines the need for landlords to prioritise fire safety. So, let’s look at how to keep your tenants and property
Moving home is one of the most significant milestones in life, and on 19 August 2024, we celebrate National Moving Day—a day dedicated to everyone embarking on the exciting journey of finding a new place to call home. Why Celebrate Moving Day? National Homemovers Day is all about acknowledging the
Throughout August we are running our Community Cheerleader campaign. It’s where we shout from the rooftops (and blog posts) about the importance of supporting our neighbourhood together. Here’s part three of our five-part series, which examines the health and well-being benefits of community spirit. When neighbours know each other, and
When it comes to retirement, most people have the same ambition: to spend their latter years doing what they love without worrying about scraping by. But what’s the best way to build a nest egg to keep you secure in your old age? Let’s look at two popular forms of
Great letting agents make a world of difference to their clients. They’re star performers who keep tenancies running smoothly, properties well-maintained and landlords on the right side of the law. But not all letting agents are equal. Unfortunately, a small minority are rogue operators with ulterior motives. So how can
Saturday, 11th August, was an absolute blast at the Oadby Car Show! It was truly fantastic to see so many people out and about, enjoying the day and admiring the stunning array of cars on display. The atmosphere was buzzing, and the weather held out beautifully, making it the perfect
Throughout August we are running our Community Cheerleader campaign. It’s where we shout from the rooftops (and blog posts) about the importance of supporting our neighbourhood together. Here’s part two of our five-part series, which looks at volunteering. Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to your community, meet
It’s months away and probably the last thing on your mind right now, but we need to talk about Christmas. We know it’s annoying when people jump on the festive bandwagon and drag out the tinsel and baubles early. But there is a logical reason as to why we’re raising
A good letting agent can make a world of difference for both landlords and tenants. Here are ten things a top-notch letting agent does to provide outstanding service: 1. Tenant Vetting and Screening A reliable letting agent conducts tenant screening (often called referencing) to ensure potential tenants are compatible with
Throughout August, we are running our Community Cheerleader campaign. It’s where we shout from the rooftops (and blog posts) about the importance of supporting our neighbourhood together. Here’s part one of our five-part series. Shopping locally is a powerful way to support our neighbourhood and enjoy various benefits. By shopping
The role of estate agents has dramatically transformed over the centuries. How the job of helping people buy and sell properties has developed has mirrored the changes in society, technology and the property market itself. This evolution has been shaped by shifting economic conditions, technological advancements and changing consumer expectations.
If you feel totally at home in your rental property, you may daydream about buying it from your landlord. So, what issues come into play when you want to buy the property that you’re renting? Let’s take a look. Be realistic While it’s not unheard of for a tenant to
There’ll be sweat, tears, heartbreak and joy in Paris over the coming fortnight when the world’s best athletes compete at the Summer Olympic Games. From boxing and badminton to javelin and judo, the Paris games will have something for everyone. As the opening ceremony is tonight, here are five fun
Property experts say that many people have put their moving plans on hold until interest rates drop*. Is this the right or wrong thing to do? Let’s take a look**. First, some context In its battle to beat inflation, the Bank of England (BoE) has held rates at 5.25% since
At Knightsbridge Estate Agents, we are thrilled to announce our continued support for Aylestone Park Football Club as their programme sponsors for the upcoming season. We believe in the power of community and the importance of grassroots sports, and Aylestone Park FC epitomizes these values. Aylestone Park FC: A Community
There’s no room for complacency when it comes to dealing with insects in a rental property. What can start as a minor inconvenience can quickly become a major issue, especially as summer is breeding season. So, here’s a list of common bugs for tenants and landlords to keep an eye
Heading off on holiday is always exciting, but it’s easy to forget essential items in the last-minute rush to pack. As we approach the busy holiday months of August and September, here’s a reminder of six commonly forgotten items that could make or break your trip. 1) Chargers
Many tech experts predict that artificial intelligence (AI) will revolutionise how we live in the future. So, what impact will AI have on the home selling process? Here’s a quick look at how AI might influence the property market in years to come and why estate agents will always have
Lettings terminology can be confusing, especially if you’re new to renting. So, here’s a jargon-busting list of commonly used rental terms to help you navigate the lettings market*. Agent An agent is a person who acts on behalf of the property owner (i.e. the landlord). Agents can be involved
With the excitement of the summer holiday season upon us, making sure your home is safe and secure while you’re away sunning yourself needs to be on your to-do list. Here are six practical tips to give you peace of mind and keep your property safe during your well-earned break.
Before you list your home, be prepared for your estate agent to go on a fact-finding mission. They’ll ask you lots of questions about your property because they’re following industry best practice by compiling what’s known as ‘material information’. This is defined as “information which the average consumer needs, according
Property abandonment is a rare but complex issue that, if mishandled, can get a landlord in legal trouble. So, let’s look at the key things to consider if a tenant abandons your rental without notice. What is abandonment? When a tenant leaves a rental before the end of their contract
Summer holidays are here, and it’s the perfect time to create unforgettable memories with your kids in Leicester. With a variety of fun and affordable activities available, there’s something to entertain children of all ages. Whether you’re exploring beautiful parks, visiting engaging museums, or participating in exciting community events, Leicester
After weeks of campaigning, the general election is done. The worst-kept secret of 2024 is out. We have a new Labour government in the UK, with the party winning by a landslide. Maybe you’re pleased, disappointed or not that bothered. But the fact the election is done ought to be
July is a busy month for green-fingered gardeners, with plants in full bloom and outdoor areas needing extra care. However, even experienced gardeners can make mistakes that affect their garden’s health and attractiveness. Here are five common gardening mistakes to avoid this July, along with tips to keep your garden
With Wimbledon now in progress, many people around the globe are captivated by the extraordinary skill and determination of the tennis stars gracing SW19. But have you ever thought about the similarities between these elite athletes and top estate agents? Probably not, and it might seem unlikely, but the parallels
We’re excited to announce that we will be attending the Oadby Motor Show on August 11th, and we can’t wait to see you there! This annual event is a highlight of the summer, bringing together car enthusiasts from all over to celebrate classic and modern vehicles in all their glory.
The LOROS Twilight Walk held on Saturday, June 29th, was nothing short of a spectacular success. This annual event brought together our vibrant community for an evening of fun, unity, and philanthropy, all in the name of raising vital funds for LOROS Hospice. As estate agents deeply embedded in the
Artificial intelligence (AI) is making tsunami-like waves across various industries, and the UK rental sector is no exception. For landlords, understanding how AI might shape the future of property management is important for maximising their investment and protecting their assets. Here’s a glimpse into the potential changes AI could bring
In Leicester, the average price for renting a two-bedroom property is £976 per calendar month. This figure represents a blend of various types of properties, from cosy apartments to spacious houses, reflecting the diversity of options available in our city. While the actual rent may vary depending on the property’s
If you dream of swapping the pressures of everyday life for sipping piña coladas on an idyllic beach, then you’ll love the newest interior design look: tropicore. In its annual trend forecast, Pinterest predicts that tropicore will boom. The social media giant says searches for ‘tropical chic décor’ are up
From adult children returning to live with mum and dad to elderly parents moving in with their offspring, multigenerational living is on the rise in the UK*. However, finding a property within budget that meets the needs of different demographics is no easy feat. So, here are some tips to
When it comes to being a successful landlord, it pays to heed the words of Forrest Gump. The slow-witted, kind-hearted fictional character played by Tom Hanks on the big screen uttered a phrase that should serve as a guiding motto for all landlords. “Life is like a box of chocolates;
Moving home can be an emotional rollercoaster, a mixture of sad goodbyes and exciting new beginnings interspersed with lots of packing and unpacking. So, to help you get through the big day and to mark World Music Day (21 June), we’ve put together a moving playlist. Here’s a list of
Welcome back to news of Wigston’s property market, where we bring you different local property market stats and trends. This week we are back again with the June’s £/sq.ft statistics. The average property presently in Wigston is on the market for £280 per square foot, a figure representing the current
Welcome back to news of Oadby’s property market, where we bring you different local property market stats and trends. This week we are back again with the June’s £/sq.ft statistics. The average property presently in Oadby is on the market for £325 per square foot, a figure representing the current
Welcome back to news of Leicester’s property market, where we bring you different local property market stats and trends. This week we are back again with the June’s £/sq.ft statistics. The average property presently in Leicester is on the market for £258 per square foot, a figure representing the current
The summer solstice, on Thursday (20 June), marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the changing of the seasons. But could the start of summer also be a turning point in your property journey? If you’ve been thinking about moving home for a while, now’s the time to grasp
When a tenancy ends, there’s often confusion – and sometimes disputes – over what a landlord can claim as a deposit deduction. So, let’s look at what’s reasonable to claim and how to avoid deposit disputes in the first place. A landlord can deduct funds from a tenant’s deposit to
While some people will enjoy a nice meal or a family catch-up this Father’s Day, the event will trigger more complex emotions for others. Many people find Father’s Day difficult to navigate due to grief, estrangement or struggles to become a parent. If you anticipate Father’s Day will be challenging
Buying a home is a huge undertaking that many property hunters find exciting – but also a bit scary. With so much at stake, what if you make an offer you later regret? Or what if you don’t make an offer and miss out on a great deal? If you often
As we all know, moving home can be a stressful business. But you can avoid a frantic panic on the big day by starting your end-of-tenancy preparations sooner rather than later. With a little bit of planning and forethought, you can streamline the process and avoid a last-minute scramble. Once
The latest data on rent growth since January 2020 highlights significant increases across the UK, providing a promising outlook for landlords, especially those in Leicester. This growth in average rents is most pronounced in the South West, which has seen a remarkable rise of 45.2%. Close behind is the East
Choosing the right estate agent is a big step on the road to successfully selling your home. But with so many agents making big promises to win your business, how can you identify the genuine professionals from the wheeler dealers? Meeting different agents at the start of the process can leave
As it’s Child Safety Week*, here’s a handy reminder for Leicester homeowners about how to keep your precious little ones out of harm’s way. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent or guardian, it’s important to ensure your home is child-proof. Babies and children are infinitely curious and love climbing on furniture and grabbing
If you’re a landlord, you can probably think of nothing worse than your rental sitting empty. The prospect of covering the mortgage and utility bills in between tenancies may keep you awake at night. And there are security implications too: a lengthy void period may invalidate your landlord insurance and
One measure is the average price paid for homes bought and sold in Leicester in the last 12 months, on a rolling month by month basis. Each month we like to share this figure, and whilst this figure alone will not tell you much, its trend will. Our followers on
If you’re planning to sleep under canvas for the first time ever this summer, here are some tips to make the most of your maiden camping experience. Plan ahead Do your research before you book a campsite as you’ll find a considerable variation in facilities and price. Some sites have