Winners Estate Agents

Worcester News Editorial

For a true picture of what’s going on nationally and in the Worcester property market, the land registry is the only comprehensive survey of price differentials in England and Wales. All media, banking and city based predictions are just that – predictions of what may happen in the future. But the country can’t plan ahead on speculation, it needs facts. In Worcestershire the property market has seen a five per cent decline in some areas compared to 2007, although urban properties have remained stable.

I am not going to suggest the market is buoyant when it’s clear we’re in the midddle of a slow down. However, the market has not stopped and people will always buy and sell property whatever the financial climate. Premiums will always be paid for the right property in a sought after location. Statistics are either flattering or annoying; however, they are factual in respect that they are representative and not individual.

What we must do as a professional agent is to advise everyone lookng to sell their homes to have a sexy price to attract potential viewers and buyers, and help sell their homes swiftly and efficiently. Estate agents are not windows for browsers, they are portals for property negotiation between buyers and sellers.

The market going forward looks tough. A highly pro-active estate agent like Winners will go out and leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of a buyer and the best price. There are many independant agents who are not high volume and they can give a seller and buyer the care they deserve.

Last week the Bank of England shaved off another 0.25 basis points off interest rates leaving a flat rate of five per cent. That’s a 0.75 per cent reduction since Christmas meaning an end of interest rate hikes that we have seen in the past 18 months. Hopefully in the next few months, as banks and building societies pass on these cuts the costs of mortgages will again become more affordable.

New houses and show homes are always attractive to view because they are clean, tidy and uncluttered and in most cases have been carefully interior designed to make the best use of space and light.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so sellers be aware, prepare your house for sale inside and out including well-kept gardens and lawns.

When there are less prospective buyers out in the market place, making every viewing count is paramount.

Posted May 21st 2008