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 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
When summer arrives, the issue of property security becomes even more relevant for landlords. The summer months provide more opportunity for thieves to take advantage of longer days, open windows and doors, and vacant properties. As a landlord, you need to protect your investment, but it’s also good practice to
It’s an exciting moment when a buyer puts a good offer on the table. After all your hard work to prepare your home for sale, it feels like everything is finally falling into place. But before you agree a price in a rush of giddy delight, it’s important to ask
When summer arrives, the issue of property security becomes even more relevant for landlords. The summer months provide more opportunity for thieves to take advantage of longer days, open windows and doors, and vacant properties. As a landlord, you need to protect your investment, but it’s also good practice to
The Renters (Reform) Bill was a proposed new law that would have meant some big changes for landlords – with new rules on tenancies, possession grounds and evictions. With the general election coming on 4 July, let’s take a look at what this could mean for the reform of rental
Understanding the various property tenures in Leicester is helpful for homebuyers in making informed decisions. In a world where jargon often replaces plain talking, this article demystifies the terms freehold, leasehold and flying freehold. It highlights the differences and implications they have regarding property ownership. Freehold Freehold properties are the
Setting the correct rental price for your property is essential to attract the best tenants and maximise the return on your investment. Too high, and you won’t get that all-important awareness and interest. Too low, and you’ll be out of pocket. Here are five key considerations every landlord should keep
May is Local History Month, making it an ideal time to dive into the history of our area. Researching local history increases our understanding of our surroundings, strengthens community ties and gives people an appreciation of our heritage. Here are five tips to help you get started if you’re finding
The latest data reveals that it takes an average of 73 days for estate agents in Wigston to find a buyer for properties in our town. This statistic, compiled by Denton House Research, encompasses all properties sold subject to contract over the past three months by every estate agent in
The latest data reveals that it takes an average of 71 days for estate agents in Oadby to find a buyer for properties in our town. This statistic, compiled by Denton House Research, encompasses all properties sold subject to contract over the past three months by every estate agent in
The latest data reveals that it takes an average of 57 days for estate agents in Leicester to find a buyer for properties in our town. This statistic, compiled by Denton House Research, encompasses all properties sold subject to contract over the past three months by every estate agent in
Getting on the housing ladder in the UK is no easy feat, with property prices and inflation meaning it can take first-time buyers (FTBs) years to save the deposit for their first home. As a result, the average age of an FTB in this country has risen to 34*. For
One issue, above all else, causes landlords sleepless nights. Can you guess what it is? Could it be maintenance and repairs? Or maybe it’s worrying about the rent being paid on time? If you answered one of the above, thanks for playing, but you’re mistaken. The biggest challenge landlords currently
There’s an old saying: The simple things in life are often the best. And when it comes to exercise, what could be simpler than putting one foot in front of the other? While there are countless ways to get fit, nothing matches the ease and accessibility of walking. You can
When it comes to home improvements, it’s wise to think carefully before you splash the cash. Homes renovated to a high standard attract more buyer interest and sell more quickly. However, not all refurbishment works will bring you the same rate of return. Buyers tend to pay particular attention to
Gardens can boost a rental property’s appeal, often making it more attractive to potential tenants – especially during May, as spring is here and summer is around the corner. But, as beneficial as they may be, gardens can also be a source of friction between landlords and tenants, particularly when
The charity, Dementia UK’s Time for a Cuppa Week, runs from 1 to 8 May. It serves as a timely reminder of the simple yet profound benefits of pausing for a cup of tea and a chat. Whether it’s catching up with friends, connecting with colleagues, or contacting those who
Investing in a buy-to-let abroad can be a tempting prospect. Owning your own little piece of paradise while earning a rental income can seem like a win-win scenario. However, it’s essential to have realistic expectations about the challenges landlords face when managing a property overseas. Here are five things to
So, you’ve prepped and primped your home, and it’s been photographed looking its very best. Now you’re ready for the next step in the selling process – viewings. This can be a make-or-break moment, where buyers fall in love and make an offer on the spot or run a mile.
If you’re paying off a mortgage on a property in Leicester, you’ll be well aware of how the mortgage market works in the UK. But how do they do things in the rest of the world? Let’s look at how people in other countries get on the housing ladder. The Netherlands While
Most home sellers want three things: to get the best possible price for their property, to complete the sale in good time and to avoid bucket-loads of stress. These three goals may sound simple and achievable, but you’d be surprised how many sellers lose their way during the marketing process.
Some landlords, actually many, have an ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach to their rental property’s upkeep. But by proactively refurbishing and modernising your rental properties, you can realise a host of benefits that will attract premium tenants and add long-term value to your investment. Here are seven
On Sunday, 50,000 people will line up for the London Marathon, an international spectacle with a record-breaking reputation. Competitors will include elite athletes from around the world and dedicated amateur runners from all corners of the UK. And then there’ll be the true gluttons for punishment – the people for
If you’re a landlord looking to save time and money (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), a good letting agent can be a game-changer. They’ll manage your rental property day to day (so you’re free to focus on your other responsibilities), regularly check in with your tenants (to ensure there
There’s plenty to consider when moving home, especially when a growing family is involved. Over the past few months, we’ve looked at the buying and selling experience through the eyes of different members of a family who moved recently. We’ve spoken with teenagers, tweenagers (9 – 12), younger children (5
As winter fades, it’s time to prepare your garden for spring, turning it into a perfect spot for birds and bees. These critters are not just fun to watch but essential for keeping your garden vibrant and helping local wildlife thrive. Here are six simple tips to make your garden
Did you know that HMRC plans to introduce new rules on how landlords file their tax returns? Here’s an update on what these changes involve and a timeline for when they’ll come into force. Making Tax Digital (MTD) is an initiative designed to streamline the tax system by fully digitising
If you’re looking for a new family home in Leicester, viewings will play a key role in your quest to find ‘The One’. While marketing photos and virtual tours serve an important purpose, nothing rivals seeing the décor, layout and location with your own eyes. Viewings also give buyers the chance
Are you planning to sell your home this year? Or just curious about what your property may be worth in the current market? Good news – this article will give you five easy-to-follow tips highlighting how effectively staging your home can boost its appeal to potential buyers. Styling your home
Owning a rental property isn’t just about what happens while tenants are in place; effectively managing periods when your property is unoccupied is equally important. Every landlord faces void periods as a natural part of property letting, making it essential to prepare financially and strategically to manage its impact. Void
Bungalows continue to be a unique asset in the UK property market, offering the charm of single storey living. In 2023, they carved out a significant niche, with 81,823 out of the 915,705 properties sold in 2023 being bungalows. Despite their smaller size, the demand for these quaint single storey