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.
As any experienced letting agent or landlord can advise you, ‘expect the unexpected’ when it comes to rental properties. And that’s why it pays to follow the Scouts’ motto and “be prepared”. Being prepared for any eventuality can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a full-blown catastrophe if
If you’re selling your home, then you’ll need a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the property. So, here’s a guide explaining what an EPC is and how you can get one. What is it? Think of an EPC as a report card on your home’s energy efficiency. EPCs grade
The Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced on Wednesday lunchtime a series of changes in his Autumn Statement. These changes, though not revolutionary, are set to benefit various sectors of the Leicester property market, including private renters, landlords and first-time buyers. One significant update is the increase in the Local Housing Allowance
We’re becoming a nation who are passionate about podcasts. Podcast listenership in the UK has been increasing yearly, reaching an estimated 21.2 million listeners in 2022 according to the Statista website. From relationships to Russia, history to histrionics, and anything else you can think of – there’s a podcast themed
Is It Time to Think Again about Landlords? In today’s climate, it’s easy to paint landlords with the same brush – viewing them solely as money-grabbing opportunists. As a letting agency that’s part of a network of like-minded agents, we get to see the rental business’s good, bad and ugly
When embarking on the substantial investment of buying a home, it’s crucial to ensure that your purchase is sound and worthwhile. This is where house surveys come into play, offering a detailed inspection of the property’s condition before you commit to the purchase. In the UK, the dynamics of who
Deciding to sell your home is a big decision that comes with a long list of jobs and responsibilities. Along with decluttering and last-minute DIY, you need to find a good agent (we can help you with that) and speak to a broker if you require a mortgage to fund
The today’s drop in UK inflation to 4.6% from 6.7% in September has several implications for the Leicester property market: Mortgage Rates and Housing Market Sentiment: The drop in inflation is expected to influence the Bank of England’s decisions regarding interest rates. With inflation falling more than expected and core
The expression ‘safe as houses’ has been used for almost two centuries to describe something that is rock-solid and risk-free. But thanks to the elaborate efforts of a small but growing number of fraudsters, not even property is as safe as you think. Since the pandemic, there’s been a steady
It can happen face to face or online, at work, school or in the community. But whatever form it takes and wherever it occurs, there’s no excuse for bullying. As this week is Anti-Bullying Week, let’s look at how widespread bullying is, the signs to look out for and how
Are you pondering whether to sell your Leicester home? With the property market constantly changing, it’s natural to wonder if now is the right time. To help you decide, we’ve crafted a fun, informative quiz. Let’s start: How well does your home meet the needs of you/your family? A. It’s
If social media increasingly makes you feel anxious or irritated, here are eight ways to enjoy a kinder and calmer experience online. Social media can be a great place to share ideas, learn new things and raise awareness about important issues and good deeds. But spend too much time online,
Insulating your home is generally a good way to cut back on energy bills and add value to your property. But there’s one type of insulation that could cause structural problems and prove costly in time and money: spray polyurethane foam (SPF). In this article, we explain why many professionals
So, you think you’ve mastered the art of letting properties? With every tenant you place and every lease you renew, you grow more confident in your prowess as a confident, caring and capable landlord. But are you one of the best landlords in Leicester? We’ve put together a quick quiz
Remember, remember, Bonfire Night celebrations don’t always have to go off with a bang. There are lots of ways to have fun on the 5th of November without letting off noisy fireworks (which can cause distress to small children, pets* and wildlife). Here are five ways to have a quieter
In this Halloween Special, we look at five scary things landlords in Leicester need to be mindful of to avoid nightmares. Some letting agents will convince landlords that finding tenants is a quick and painless process. However, rushing it without proper checks and considerations can lead to choosing the wrong
There’s a lot to consider when you start thinking about moving home. This includes things like: It’s a massive decision to sell up and buy elsewhere. When families are involved, our advice is to make your children feel part of the process, and listening to their thoughts, concerns and ideas
Next time you’re about to make an online purchase, pause for a second and ask yourself one simple question: Could I buy this locally? With retail experts predicting that 15,000 shops could shut for good by the end of 20251, it’s not an exaggeration to say that the UK’s high
Remember those post-lockdown days when selling a property was as easy as putting it on a property portal and waiting for the phone to ring off the hook? Those days are behind us. The selling market has become increasingly challenging, demanding more than just a ‘For Sale’ sign outside and
It’s not enough for landlords to have insurance; understanding the policy’s specific requirements and declaring everything accurately is crucial. Here’s a real-life cautionary tale about a landlord who learned this lesson the hard way. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 Landlord Martin* thought he’d secured the right landlord’s policy with a reputable insurance company.
If you’re feeling tired, grumpy and an overwhelming urge to hibernate as the autumn days get shorter and cooler, you’re not alone. Many people experience a dip in mood and energy at this time of year. But before you dive for cover under the duvet, here are some tips to
In this quick read, we delve into the importance of accurate valuations – and how to price your property with precision. Don’t be tricked into high listing prices The saying “stick it on high and wait for offers” is a common myth that doesn’t align with current market trends. A
It’s every landlord’s worst nightmare: you discover the people you thought were trusted tenants are actually crooks using your property for illegal activity. As a result, you face hefty repair bills, loss of income and a battle with your insurer. You may also find yourself at the centre of a police
Every October, the UK celebrates Black History Month, a time to reflect on the rich tapestry of black culture, heritage and history that has helped shape modern Britain. It’s more than 31 days; it’s a celebration of triumph, creativity and relentless spirit that has inspired generations. What is Black History
Every corner of your home, from the family heirloom in the lounge to the vibrant garden, is filled with both emotional and financial significance. In Leicester, where homeowners and tenants cherish their properties, understanding property insurance becomes paramount. Here’s a snapshot to help you navigate the intricacies: Why Insurance? A
After a challenging 12 months for the economy, how is the private rental sector faring, and what lies ahead for buy-to-let landlords? In this market analysis, we look at some facts and figures to give you an accurate update on the private rental sector. Demand Demand for rentals is running
Buying a home is a huge decision – possibly one of the biggest you’ll make in your lifetime (no pressure then). And to ensure you make a wise choice that suits your needs now and into the future, it pays to give the process a bit of thought before you
Dyslexia is often misunderstood as simply a learning difficulty. Yet, this condition is so much more than that. For many, it’s a unique way of thinking, an extraordinary approach to life that has given rise to creativity, innovation and problem-solving abilities. So, it’s more of a learning difference than difficulty
It’s up there with late rents, messy tenants and broken boilers on a landlord’s Headache-ometer. What are we talking about? Finding (and keeping) tradespeople you can trust to look after any property maintenance or issues landlords need to get sorted. In this article, we share five tried, tested and trustworthy
If you’re considering listing your property for sale, we have some good news. Traditionally, there’s a surge in serious buyers coming to the market in autumn after the summer lull – so you’ve timed your move wisely. But what’s the psychology driving property hunters at this time of year? And
A new ‘How to Rent’ guide has been released today by the UK Government. This comes just seven months after it was last updated in March, to reflect legal changes, including the requirement for carbon monoxide alarms to be fitted in every room with a fixed fuel-burning appliance. A new
The Negotiator announces shortlist of the best of the residential agency sector battling to win at The Negotiator Awards 2023. The Negotiator Awards, established 15 years ago, proudly holds its position as the UK’s foremost independent awards programme, celebrating excellence within the estate and letting agent industry, as well as
With the kids safely back at school and the days getting a little bit cooler, can you hear those jingling bells? It might be the end of summer, but get ready because Christmas is coming! With Santa tucked away in his grotto for the next few months, you might (if
Have you ever wondered about the ins and outs of getting a mortgage when self-employed? Well, wonder no more! We’ve got the information right here… The myth: Horror stories about self-employed mortgage applications have circulated, but the reality is more promising than you might think. While the process may seem
If you’re a landlord looking to attract long-term tenants, it’s worth thinking about ways to make your investment property as appealing as possible. And one area you may have overlooked is the army of British pet owners who need a rental property, and want to make their furry friends as
If your dreams of buying a new home rely on the sale of your existing property, then there’s one fundamental question you need to answer. Are you going to look for a new home first and then list your property – or do things the other way around? While both
Buying your first Leicester home? The term “chain-free” might sound like estate agent jargon, but it’s a game-changer for some Leicester buyers and sellers. Let’s unpack why chain-free homes are important and how you can benefit from this hassle-free option. Stress-Be-Gone: The Advantage of No Property Chains Home-buying is often
The government has re-evaluated its stance on several eco-centric regulations, introducing essential modifications of interest to buy-to-let Leicester landlords: It was planned that all landlords would be forced to upgrade their buy-to-let properties to a ‘C’ grade on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which could cost many tens of thousands
If you’re fortunate enough to be in a financial position where you can rent out your home instead of selling it, should you take the leap? After all, if you don’t need to sell to fund your next move, renting your property is an option worth exploring. Here, we explore
Want to fast-track your property sale by getting your marketing just right? Then spend some time thinking about the type of buyer most likely to fall in love with your home, and ensure you target them. Once you’ve identified the type (or types) of buyers looking for a property like
A new ‘How to Rent’ guide is set to be released by the government next month. This comes just seven months after it was last updated in March, to reflect legal changes, including the requirement for carbon monoxide alarms to be fitted in every room with a fixed fuel-burning appliance.
Looking for a way to save cash, be kind to the environment and help a good cause? Then roll up your sleeves and go hunting for a second-hand bargain. As this month is Second-Hand September*, now’s the time to up your game when shopping for ‘pre-loved’ clothes, shoes, furniture and
If you’re a first-time landlord about to rent out a property, or an established landlord looking to purchase a new investment, one of the main questions you’ll have is how much rent you can charge per month. Of course, you can (and should) take the advice of your agent, but
When it comes to preparing for a property sale, most sellers focus on the early stage of the process: sprucing up their home and choosing an agent to manage the marketing. But there’s another element to nailing a successful property deal that gets less attention but is just as critical:
Everyone needs a little bit of joy. And these days, finding joy has become a big business. There are gratitude journals, exercise programmes, spiritual practices and much, much more to help you achieve happiness, but what about finding joy in your surroundings? Your home environment is essential to your happiness
You’ve seen the perfect home of your dreams that you want to buy, but you still need to put yours on the market. Juggling a home purchase while selling your existing property in Leicester can feel like walking a tightrope. But don’t sweat; we’ve got a roadmap to ensure you
As a landlord, you’ve probably experienced that feeling of dread when your tenant’s name flashes up on your phone, reporting a problem. Or how about the horror of receiving the news that you’re going to have to pay for urgent (and expensive) repairs? If either of these situations sound familiar,
Buying a property with a partner can be an exciting next step in a relationship. Swapping paying rent or living with family for cosy nights with your beloved in your own home can be a blissful prospect. But before you arrange a series of viewings in a giddy rush of
Whether you’re an established landlord or a first-time investor, you’ll probably be thinking about what to buy: a ready-to-go rental or a doer-upper. Which one should you pick? Currently, lots of changes are being made around rental rules, and reports claim that many landlords are selling up. However, there are
Unless you’re one of those super-organised types who spend the year secretly buying stocking fillers and stashing them under your bed, Christmas is probably the last thing on your mind right now. And why should it be? It’s summer, the schools are shut (for a few more days at least),
No matter what your child’s age, the first day back at school can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s their first day in Reception, the start of a major exam year or just back into the daily grind of lessons, lunchtimes, and the school routine – it can feel like a lot.
Is your inbox clogged with emails that you never find time to read? Does scrolling through social media leave you fizzing with rage or grappling with imposter syndrome? Or are you bombarded by the relentless ping of WhatsApp notifications, news updates and promo offers from fast-food delivery firms? If the
As a landlord, one of your main goals is to make sure your property is tenanted. As soon as the old tenants decide they’re moving on, it’s time to find new renters to move in. But while you’ll be keen for a quick turnaround, it’s also important that things are
Let’s be honest, we’ve all been a nosy neighbour at some point, haven’t we? A ‘for sale’ sign goes up on a property in your street, and within minutes you’re online to find out what it’s on the market for. Soon enough, you’re marvelling or shuddering at your neighbour’s taste
If you have a Leicester home and are considering the idea of ‘mortgage holidays’ but are unsure about their specifics, this article is for you. A mortgage holiday, also called a payment break, grants you a temporary respite from your mortgage payments. An invaluable option during financial challenges or unforeseen
As it’s World Photography Day today, we look at how the camera and its role in society have changed over the past 200 years. Brits do it five times a day, while Americans manage it 20 times a day.* Yes, taking a photograph has become second nature for many of
Renting a property with a friend or acquaintance? Never lived with anyone before? We’ve got you covered with some top tips to help manage your new living situation. These days, renting isn’t cheap and whether you’re a student or professional, those monthly payments can feel like a stretch. So, if
Are you yearning for extra space within your Leicester home? Look no further than garage conversions – an intelligent choice for amplifying your living area and boosting property value. As leading estate agents in Leicester, we’re here to guide you through the transformative process, offering valuable insights that could sway
It’s often said that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but then (confusingly), it’s also said that first impressions count… Why are all these clichés so important? Well, when marketing a property, it’s a bit of both: how a property looks will catch a buyer’s eye before they
If you’re selling a property, you’ve got a big decision to make. Which estate agent do you pick? Should you go with an independent local agency or choose a big-name brand? Should you use an agent based on the local high street or choose a cheaper online option? Before you
British summers are hit and miss. On the days you want sun, you get cloudy skies and showers; on the days you’re rushing around doing a million things, you get a mini heatwave. But while we humans can (and should) protect ourselves from the sun, what about our loyal pets?
Type ‘tenancy agreement’ into Google and you’ll get thousands of results offering free online templates and guides to writing your own rental contract. So why bother using a letting agent to sort out the tenancy agreement if you can do it yourself? What could possibly go wrong? Well, quite a
Buying a new home is a big step that comes with lots of considerations. Finding the right property in a good location at a price you’re willing to pay isn’t always easy and can take time. But when you finally move into your new place to start the next chapter
Interest rates have risen to 5.25% following a 0.25% increase announced by the Bank of England. This is the 14th consecutive rise and marks the highest interest rates in 15 years. The reason behind these rate hikes is to combat high levels of inflation. The government has set a target
Close your eyes and picture your dream home. What do you see? A home that’s light, spacious and orderly? Or one that’s chaotic and cluttered with objects piled high and shoes and clothes strewn on the floor (along with bits of Lego that you inevitably tread on). The first scenario
As a landlord, as well as managing the finances, the property and any repairs or maintenance, you also have to remember to look after your tenants. Whilst nine times out of ten you’ll never have to deal with anything too difficult, sometimes relationships can be testing. So, what’s the best
The number of downsizers active in the housing market has skyrocketed in recent months*, and is it any wonder? With steep hikes in energy bills, interest rates and inflation, many people feeling the squeeze are rethinking how – and where – they want to live. Downsizers are often stereotyped as
Not since 2008, when Katy Perry stormed the music charts and Gavin and Stacey ruled the small screen, have interest rates been as high as they are today As a result, many mortgage holders are looking for ways to trim their outgoings to ease the financial burden. Homeowners are putting
Every year, the Bank of Mum and Dad comes to the rescue by helping tens of thousands of first-time buyers get on the housing ladder. Last year alone, 46% of first-time buyers received financial help from their parents to purchase a property, with £8.8 billion changing hands (source: Savills). But
How can you spot a top letting agent from a master of mediocrity? Read on to find out. Landlords use letting agents for all sorts of reasons. Some need help navigating red tape and lettings legislation, while others want a third party to deal with inspections, inventories and disputes. And
Forget Scandi style or minimalist chic, the interiors trend of the moment is wabi-sabi – an approach to design that’s gentler on the environment and the bank balance. So, what is this concept with the weird rhyming name all about, and could it work for you? Wabi-sabi has been popular
If you’re thinking about buying your first home, congratulations! You’re about to experience a huge life moment and finally have somewhere to call your own. The first-time buyer journey is exciting, scary, overwhelming… it’s basically all the emotions. So, what can you expect? In this quick read, we take you
At last summer is here, so what are your plans? Have you booked an exciting getaway in an exotic location? Or is the aim to kick back and relax on home turf? Whatever you’ve lined up, it’s worth taking note of the common concerns that can crop up in rented
If you’re selling a property, you have a big decision. Which estate agent do you pick? Should you go with an independent local agency or choose a big-name brand? Should you use an agent based on the local high street or choose a cheaper online option? Before you decide, getting
If you’ve got wonky shelves or pictures that you keep meaning to put up but haven’t got around to doing, are your DIY skills holding you back? Can’t tell a drill bit from a screwdriver head? We feel your pain. Knowing how to do basic DIY is a huge help,
Before selling your home, you might be thinking about ways to add value or unlock potential so buyers can get a feel for living there themselves. But renovations are costly and may not pay off. So, what can you do to change without spending too much? Whilst it’s always a
Problems in the home are a nuisance. Like when you’ve got a leaky tap and the drip drip drip drives you to distraction, or when your fridge packs up, and food goes to waste. When things go wrong, it’s understandable you want them fixed ASAP. But what if you’re a
Are there hidden hazards in your garden that could make your pooch ill and leave you with costly vet bills? Here’s a guide to keeping your garden safe and secure for your dog. Fencing The last thing you want is for your hound to escape onto the street and get
As a landlord, it’s important to build a good relationship with tenants. You want them to feel comfortable in their new home and to care for it, pay rent on time and generally have a successful tenancy period. But what makes a good relationship? Unless you’re renting a property out
Come on, we’ve all done it. Switched onto a property programme and fallen into the daydream of building our very own house. A walk-in wardrobe, a home cinema, a room just for shoes… sounds great, doesn’t it? But what’s the reality of a self-build project? On the one hand, building
Today’s increase in Bank of England rates has sent ripples of concern among Leicester homeowners, particularly those with impending remortgages or seeking new deals. The decision by the Bank to raise rates by 0.5% has sparked discussions about the potential consequences and the steps Leicester homeowners should consider taking. For
If you’re a landlord about to settle a new tenant into a property, there’s one phrase that should be your guiding mantra: “Start as you mean to go on”. Because what you do in the early stages of a tenancy will help define what unfolds over the next weeks, months
Evaluate Your Current Needs: Take stock of your lifestyle and assess how your requirements have changed since your children left the nest. Consider factors like space, maintenance, and accessibility that will shape your ideal downsized Leicester home. Financial Planning: Downsizing can be a great opportunity to free up equity and
Picture this: After a long and exhausting property search you finally find the home that’s just right for you. But then the estate agent mentions that it’s a ‘probate property’ and you’re left scratching your head. While it’s a term that you’ve heard before, you’re not entirely sure what it
Recycling is part of our everyday lives: at home, in the workplace, at school, in cafés and restaurants. We’re all more aware than ever of the importance of recycling, but how about stepping up a gear and really trying to reduce our use of plastic? Ask yourself this, and answer
The pitfalls of renting are always shouted about: too expensive, dodgy landlords, broken appliances and so on and so on. But what about the positives? With rental reforms on the horizon and changes to eviction rules in full swing, let’s explore why being a tenant is the best choice for
Post pandemic, having outside space has taken on a whole new level of importance and can add significant value to a property. But what happens when your garden oasis threatens the chance of selling your home? Some lush green plants might look nice but could signal trouble for a house
With summer officially starting in a few weeks, most people will have banished all thoughts of winter and the dark, damp days that go with it. But there’s a good reason why landlords should look beyond the sunny skies of the here and now to the colder months. And here’s
First-time buyers are key drivers in the property market and could be the ideal candidate to purchase your home. So, are you doing enough to target them? They might not have the instant allure of a cash buyer, but dig a little deeper, and it quickly becomes clear that first-time
You don’t need to be an expert gardener or have lots of space to create cheery window boxes that are the envy of all your neighbours. All it takes to create a spectacular display that gives your home instant kerb appeal is a windowsill big enough to accommodate a planter
If you’re considering putting your Leicester home on the market, look no further than the month of June. With longer days, warmer weather, and a sense of renewed energy in the air, June offers a prime opportunity to attract potential Leicester buyers and make a successful sale before the kids
It’s not just birds, bees and butterflies that come out in force in summer – unfortunately, burglars step up their activity, too. With many people going away on holiday (leaving homes empty) and others opening their windows and doors when temperatures rise, burglary rates spike in summer. So, how can
If you’re selling a property, you might think that selling to one of your nearest and dearest is the answer. After all, they know what they’re buying, you’ll save on professional fees, and the home you love will be left in good hands. But is it really that simple? Unfortunately,
Electric vehicles (EVs) are everywhere. They’ve been steadily growing in popularity and are now a serious consideration for anyone thinking about buying a new car. So, are you ready to go green and drive electric? It’s estimated that by 2025, the sale of electric cars will overtake that of traditional
Garden maintenance can be a thorny issue between tenants and landlords, so here’s a useful guide to help avoid confusion. Now that spring is here, there are lots of tasks to be done in the garden, such as watering, weeding and mowing. But if the garden is part of a
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to remortgage your property, getting a good mortgage deal is probably top on your list of priorities. You could lose hours scrolling through comparison sites, frantically searching for high street lenders’ deals, and trying to find your latest payslips. Or you could do
After a four-year wait and lots of speculation, a wide-ranging plan to overhaul the rental sector was finally presented to Parliament this week. The Renters’ Reform Bill includes changes to eviction laws, the creation of a Private Rental Ombudsman to resolve disputes and measures to speed up the existing court
It’s estimated that the average person spends 26 years of their life asleep and nearly seven years trying to get to sleep, so your bedroom needs to be somewhere you really want to spend your time. Your bed and its surroundings should be comfortable and enticing. Think of a luxury
Embarking on the journey of buying your first Leicester home can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be filled with costly mistakes. With proper planning and a few precautions, you can avoid the common pitfalls that many first-time buyers encounter. Here are six mistakes to watch out for and
How can landlords and tenants combat condensation and mould? Read on to find out. Condensation and mould The two are often bundled together because if you’ve got condensation, there’s a good chance it won’t be long before you’re battling mould. Condensation can be caused by warm air hitting cold surfaces