As the autumn leaves paint the city in warm shades of red and gold, London comes alive with a variety of exciting events to celebrate the season. This weekend, there are three standout events that promise fun, adventure, and a touch of the eerie.

1. Camden Oktoberfest: A Bavarian Extravaganza

Date: 30th Sept to 28th Oct                                                                                                           

Location: Electric Ballroom                                                                                                          

Website: Camdenoktoberfest

Get ready to don your lederhosen and raise a stein to a fantastic day out at Camden Oktoberfest. Held at the iconic Electric Ballroom, this event promises to transport you straight to the heart of Bavaria. 

Camden Oktoberfest offers an authentic taste of Germany with its range of Bavarian brews, delicious traditional food, and lively oompah bands. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a good time, this event has something for everyone. There will be plenty of space to dance, mingle with fellow revelers, and enjoy the lively spirit of Oktoberfest.

2. Hampstead Heath Conker Championships

Date: 8th Oct                                                                                                                               

Location: Hampstead Heath                                                                                                          

Website: Conker championships 2023

For those who prefer a more outdoorsy experience, the Hampstead Heath Conker Championships is the perfect fit. This quirky event combines nostalgia with a touch of competition as participants of all ages gather to compete in the age-old game of conkers.

Held at the picturesque Hampstead Heath, this event is a delightful way to connect with nature and embrace the changing season. Whether you’re a conker champion or just want to relive your childhood memories, the Conker Championships promise a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a touch of autumn magic.

3. London Month of the Dead: Talks and Tours

Date: 5th Oct – 1st Nov                                                                                                                               

Location: Various Locations                                                                                                          

Website: London Month of the Dead

For those intrigued by the mysterious and the macabre, the London Month of the Dead offers a unique experience. This series of talks and tours delves into the darker history of our city, exploring London’s cemeteries, crypts, and burial practices, shedding light on the eerie and fascinating stories of the past.

Led by experts and historians, these tours and talks provide a different perspective on London’s history, revealing secrets and tales that often go untold. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the city’s hidden depths, this event is sure to captivate your imagination and send shivers down your spine.

Whether you’re looking for a lively party, a day in nature, or a dose of spooky history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this weekend. So, gather your friends and family, and create lasting memories in our vibrant and ever-evolving city.

The simple answer to this is yes!

This is surprising to many tenants, who assume that as the property belongs to their landlord, they have no responsibility if anything goes wrong with it. Most tenants know that they need to purchase contents insurance to cover their personal belongings, but few know that they can also take out tenant liability insurance, which will ensure that they are covered for any deductions from their deposit.

Is it a legal requirement?

Tenants are not legally required to take out insurance. However, while not obligatory, it is prudent to consider obtaining insurance if you keep valuable items such as mobile phones, computers, jewellery, or bicycles in your rented property. Contents insurance protects your possessions from damage or theft.

Ensuring that your policy also covers your landlord’s fixtures, fittings, and furnishings can save you money, as damage to any of those can be costly when the time comes for your deposit to be returned to you.

Shared houses

If you are sharing a house or flat with others, you have the option of either acquiring a collective policy covering all occupants or obtaining individual coverage for the contents of your specific room. Informing the insurer about your house-sharing arrangement is sensible, as they might require confirmation of locks on individual room doors.

You should be aware that if you have a collective policy and one person makes a claim, it will affect your insurance premiums for the next five years, regardless of whether you are still living with them.

The difference between contents and tenant insurance

Contents insurance covers the cost of replacing or repairing your personal belongings if they are stolen or damaged.

In the event of an accident, tenant liability insurance will cover any repairs that are required for the landlord’s furnishings, fixtures, and other property. For items that are particularly expensive and to protect your belongings when they are outside the property, you might be able to get extra coverage.

Buildings Insurance

Insuring the building is your landlord’s responsibility, so you do not need to take this out.

What is not covered by insurance?

Normal deterioration due to use (wear and tear) is generally not included, and the same applies to situations of non-forced entry. For instance, if you inadvertently leave a window or door open and a burglar takes advantage of this to steal your belongings, your insurance company won’t cover this. Additionally, there are instances where coverage may cease if the property remains vacant for a specified period, often around 30 days.

When you make an insurance claim, it’s customary to have to pay an excess. However, the specific excess sum varies based on the policy you have. It’s crucial to check this before purchasing an insurance policy, as it will provide you with clarity on the amount you’ll be responsible for covering in the event you need to make a claim.

Are you looking for a property to rent?

If you are looking for a property to rent in Hampstead please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk so that we can add you to our earlybird list so that you will be one of the first to find out about our available properties.

Summer brings out the best in our gardens – vibrant blooms, melodious birdsong, and sun-kissed patios. It’s a season that beckons us to bask in the outdoors, but what happens when summer slips away, and the colder months approach? Must our outdoor spaces hibernate until the warmth of spring returns? A recent survey revealed that a well-kept garden can add as much as 5% to a property’s selling price in NW London, so with that in mind, what can you do to make the most of yours?

Light

As the days grow shorter, the temptation to retreat indoors can be strong. However, your garden needn’t plunge into darkness with the setting sun. Outdoor lighting can transform your outdoor spaces into a welcoming oasis even after nightfall. Whether you opt for wired lighting or eco-friendly solar-powered options, illuminating your garden with string lights or elegant light fixtures can create a cosy ambiance that makes it more tempting to linger outside.

Winter House

Many of us cherish our summer houses, using them as relaxing refuges for reading, hobbies and entertaining. Why limit their use to sunny days alone? A few plush blankets can transform your summer retreat into a snug winter haven. Imagine sipping hot chocolate while wrapped up in warm, cosy blankets, gazing out at your garden’s wintry beauty.

Chase Away the Chill

A well-placed fire pit or chiminea can provide comforting warmth, making chilly evenings enjoyable. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply unwinding under the stars, they can help to take the edge off the cold. Embrace the spirit of winter wonderlands, don your cosiest coat, and bring your blankets outside to create a snug spot to enjoy the season.

Culinary Delights

Cooking outdoors isn’t exclusive to summer. An outdoor pizza oven is a versatile addition to your outdoor space that can be fired up in any season. Rain or shine, a strategically positioned gazebo can shield your barbecue from the elements, ensuring that even the pouring rain won’t deter your barbecuing plans. Investing in a gas barbecue with a reliable hood opens up possibilities even on blustery days.

Unlock Your Garden’s Potential

Your garden doesn’t have to become a dormant space when summer bids farewell. Embrace the beauty of each season and enjoy the outdoors throughout the year.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Hampstead  and would like advice on how to make the most of your outdoor space during the colder months give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk. We’re here to help you throughout the entire home-selling process, no matter the season.

London, the dynamic and culturally rich capital of the United Kingdom, is always a hub of activity, offering a plethora of events and festivities throughout the year and this weekend is no exception.  From enthralling theatre performances to lively celebrations and vintage treasures, there is something for everyone this weekend. We’ve rounded up our favourites below. 

1. Anthropology at Hampstead Theatre

Date: 7th Sept to 14th Oct                     

Location: Hampstead Theatre                                                                                                     

Website: Hampstead Theatre – Anthropology

This compelling play, set to run from 7th Sept to 14th Oct, offers a thought-provoking exploration of human connections and the complexities of relationships.

“Anthropology” delves into the intricacies of modern life and personal dynamics, weaving a narrative that will keep you engaged from start to finish. With a talented cast and a riveting storyline, it promises an evening of both entertainment and introspection. The Hampstead Theatre has a reputation for delivering high-quality performances, making it a must-visit for theatre lovers and anyone looking for a night of profound storytelling.

2. Oktoberfest at Between the Bridges

Date: September 22nd to 30th September                                                                                 

Location: Between the Bridges, Queen’s Walk, Southbank                                                         

Website: Between the Bridges – Oktoberfest

If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Bavaria right in the heart of London, Oktoberfest at Between the Bridges is the place to be. Running from 22nd September to 30th September, this event promises a memorable experience filled with traditional German beer, mouthwatering food, and an authentic Bavarian atmosphere.

Oktoberfest is renowned for its vibrant celebrations, and Between the Bridges doesn’t disappoint. Live music and entertainment add to the festivities, creating an ambiance that’s both energetic and jovial. Whether you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or simply seeking a fun time with friends and family, Oktoberfest is an event not to be missed.

3. Meet Me in Marylebone Village

Date: Saturday 30th September, 12pm – 6pm

Location: Marylebone Village                                                                                                      

Website: Marylebone Village – Meet Me

In Marylebone Village

Be part of a bustling day filled with shopping and dining delights! Marylebone Village is hosting a Shopping and Dining Day dedicated to Marylebone Lane. It will be a day of engaging workshops, exclusive promotions, tempting offers, delightful alfresco drinking and dining experiences, specially crafted menus, captivating pop-up stalls, entertaining demonstrations, and so much more from a diverse array of retailers and restaurants. It’s a day you won’t want to miss! “Meet Me in Marylebone Village” offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the hidden gems of this picturesque part of London. 

4. Classic Car Boot Sale

Date: 30th September and 1st October                                                                                       

Location: Granary Square,                                                                                                          

Website: Classic Car Boot Sale

For vintage enthusiasts and automotive aficionados, the Classic Car Boot Sale is an absolute treasure trove of nostalgia and collectibles. Taking place on 30th September and 1st October in Granary Square, King’s Cross, this event promises a delightful journey through the past.

You’ll discover a wide array of classic cars, vintage fashion, and unique collectibles. Whether you’re on the hunt for a rare find or simply want to soak in the atmosphere, this event is a vintage lover’s dream come true. Explore rows of classic vehicles, each with its own unique story, and peruse stalls offering everything from retro clothing to antique furniture.

Everyone in the UK who advertises a residential property for sale or rent is required by law to commission an EPC. You can be fined if you don’t have an EPC when you need one. There are a few exceptions, but the vast majority of them concern businesses or places of worship. For example, your property may be exempt if it is mixed-use, such as a home that also serves as a shop, is less than 50 square metres in size, or is a holiday home that is used for less than four months of the year.

What is an EPC?

EPC is an abbreviation for Energy Performance Certificate. An EPC ranks a property’s energy efficiency from A to G and from 1-100. It contains tips on how to save energy and money, as well as the rating the property could receive if all of the recommendations in it were followed. It also gives the property’s environmental CO2 impact rating. This is the amount of CO2 emitted during the production of hot water and heating for the property.

How is an EPC created?

You need to employ a certified assessor to do the report. The EPC assessor will come to your home and gather information about your boiler, hot water tank, radiators, insulation, and windows. They then enter this data into software that analyses your property’s energy efficiency and environmental impact.

How can you improve your EPC?

A list of measures that can improve your property’s EPC rating will be included in the report. These are not generic suggestions, but will be tailored to your property. You may decide not to implement any of the advice since you will not personally benefit from it. However, a low EPC rating may deter potential purchasers who worry about the cost of heating the property.

Installing a new boiler is the single most effective way to improve your property’s rating. Other ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency include adding more loft insulation, installing solar panels on your roof, sealing unused chimneys to reduce draughts, and adding wall insulation. When having insulation installed, it is usually a good idea to save any documentation because EPC assessors only conduct a visual check of your property and will not be able to notice any in tucked away or inaccessible spots.

It might seem like a hassle to arrange for an EPC to be carried out, but it can really help you attract buyers to your property. A home with a good EPC rating will appeal to a wide range of buyers because many people are concerned about their personal carbon footprint and rising energy costs, so if your property is energy-efficient, it is undoubtedly a selling feature. Even if your property receives a low rating, it is not the end of the world because the EPC highlights the potential rating that your property could get if the recommendations contained within it were implemented. That section will be especially appealing to anyone looking for a fixer-upper.

If you have any questions about EPCs or would like to learn more about how we can help you through the entire home selling process in Hampstead , please contact us on 020 7759 2199 or send us an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

Moving home is one of the most exciting and stressful things you will do, so it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by all of the things that you need to do. Our easy to follow list will help guide you through it.

In the lead up to moving day

Pack early

Avoid a last minute panic and start packing early. Removing the franticness of last minute packing will help make your moving day go much more smoothly.

Redirect your post

It can take up to two weeks for your post to be redirected, so make sure that you arrange this nice and early so that you don’t have to worry about whether you have failed to notify anyone of your change of address.

Insurance

Lenders usually require that you have buildings insurance in place before you move as a condition of them granting you a mortgage, but don’t forget to organise your contents insurance before you move as well.

Meter Readings

You need to let your utility companies know the date you are moving out of your property and provide them with a final meter reading so that you don’t end up paying for your buyer’s energy or water usage.

Internet

You also need to inform your internet service provider of the date you are moving home. It can take several weeks to get connected to the internet when you move, so the sooner you can start the ball rolling, the less time you will spend relying on mobile data.

Pack an essentials box

Having a box with everything you need for the first few days in your new home will save you a lot of frustration searching through all of your unpacked boxes. Make sure that you include your kettle and some tea bags for that well deserved first cup of tea in your new home.

Moving Day!

Find the essentials

No not the teabags, although those are important too! You need to find the location of the stopcock, the thermostat, the gas and electricity meters and the water meter too if you have one.

Meter Readings

Once you have found your meters, make sure that you take readings from all of them. Always take a photograph, as it will be time stamped so can help if there is a disagreement over your first bill. Submit these as soon as possible to your energy suppliers; you will normally have been left with their details by the sellers. If not, expect to receive a letter from them in the first few days, as the previous owners will have submitted their final meter readings and the companies will be keen to make contact with the new bill payers!

Neighbours

It’s always a good idea to introduce yourself to your new neighbours. They will be the ones who will be taking in your parcels and can also be a great source of information about the area, including which pubs and restaurants to try out and which day to put out the bins. You never know; it could even be the start of a lifelong friendship.

We are always here to offer advice on any aspect of moving home in Hampstead, so if you have a question, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on  020 7759 2199 or send us an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

Choosing a letting agent to manage your property in NW London can be a difficult decision. There are so many options available, and they all claim to be the best! So what should you consider when deciding who to entrust with the management of your property?

Local expertise

You wouldn’t get in a taxi with a driver who didn’t know the area, or at the very least, you’d get out quickly! You should also not entrust your property in NW London to a letting agency that does not understand the local market. Great letting agents are familiar with the local community and have a well-established database of potential tenants that they can utilise to ensure that your property gets seen and thus let as quickly as possible.

Tech savvy

Newspapers, magazines, and other forms of printed media should undoubtedly be included in your property’s marketing strategy. However, letting agents who solely use them and haven’t embraced the benefits of online marketing, such as social media, their own website, and online property portals, will put you at a disadvantage when it comes to letting your property. Research has shown that 84% of tenants start their property search online, so you need a letting agent who knows how to get your property in front of them.

Honesty

When renting out a property, you need a letting agent who will be truthful with you, especially in this market. Be wary of agents who overstate their suggested rental price for your property with the expectation of lowering it after you sign a contract with them. An honest letting agent will not hesitate to point out aspects of your property that could be improved in order to increase your chances of finding suitable tenants, and they will be honest about things that should be considered when determining the rental price.

Communication, communication, communication

The letting agent you choose will not only act as a liaison between you and your tenant, but will also be your source of information about how viewings went and the feedback from potential tenants. Choosing a letting agent who is an excellent communicator will make the entire process of letting your property much easier.

Works for you.

It is your property. While a good letting agent is able to give you advice about letting properties, a great letting agent can tailor their advice according to your needs and wishes because they will listen to them. Letting a home isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience, you’ll need a letting agent who is willing to listen and adapt to your needs.

If you are thinking of letting your property in Hampstead, then please give us a call on  020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk and we will be delighted to chat with you about the reasons we believe that we fulfil all of those criteria.

There are numerous reasons why tenants choose to give notice, many of which have nothing to do with the property or their landlord. However, there are some things that cause tenants to leave that are entirely avoidable.

The rent is too high

Annual rent increases may raise the rent over the amount which the tenant is able or willing to pay for your property. Make certain that any rent increases are in line with local rents for similar properties. If you have a good tenant, avoiding a rental void while you look for a new tenant may be more financially beneficial than an increase in rent.

Upsizing

Your tenant may require a larger property due to a growing family or having relatives move in with them for health or financial reasons. While you cannot magically increase the size of your property, if you have a larger rental property available and they are good tenants, it is always worth letting them know that you have a larger property available, especially if you have the feeling that they are outgrowing their current home.

Neighbours

If your tenant does not get along with their neighbours, you may believe there is nothing you can do. This is not the case. Sometimes just acting as a go-between for your tenants and their neighbours is enough to settle any disputes. Pay attention to both sides. The neighbours may not even realise they have upset your tenants. If that doesn’t work and they are renting, consider raising the situation with their landlord, who is likely to be just as eager for peace to return as you are. If this does not produce any results, the next step is to involve the local council. Unsightly piles of rubbish, noise disturbances, and anti-social behaviour are all things that the local council can help with.

Maintenance Problems

This is entirely within your ability to resolve. Not addressing things you promised to solve or failing to reply when a tenant contacts you about a maintenance issue could result in a rift between you and your tenant. Avoid losing good tenants due to maintenance issues by resolving them as soon as they are brought to your attention. Regular inspections allow you to identify problems before they become serious. If you live too far away or are too busy to respond to problems quickly, consider hiring a letting agent to handle your property for you. It is less expensive than having rental voids due to the loss of good tenants.

Purchasing a Home

Unless they want to buy your property and you are willing to sell it to them, this is a problem you will never be able to fix. Wish them well and ask if they have any friends looking for a place to live that they would recommend as tenants.

By keeping on top of issues that may cause your tenants to leave, you can reduce tenant turnover and rental voids, leading to a better rental experience for both you and your tenants. If you would like to discuss how we can help you manage your property, please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

Many prospective homeowners are oblivious to many things that can derail their home purchase. Here is our list of 7 things not to do if you are trying to purchase a property.

Underestimating costs
In addition to the purchase price of your property, you need to take into account the cost of conveyancing fees, the price of surveys, and moving costs. Don’t forget that when you move in, you will need to pay for buildings and contents insurance and council tax as well.

Not checking your credit score
Your credit score is your financial CV, and lenders use it to assess whether you are able to keep up with repayments. Check your credit score and have any errors rectified before applying for a mortgage to ensure you minimise the chance of your application being rejected.

Choosing the wrong solicitor
Check that your solicitor is on your mortgage lender’s list of approved solicitors to avoid additional costs or even having to change solicitors. Most mortgage lenders have an approved list of solicitors that they will work with. Your solicitor will be required to complete the legal work for your lender during the conveyancing process. However, if your solicitor is not on their approved list, they will not be able to act for your mortgage lender, leading to the expense of a second solicitor’s firm, who are on that list, needing to be employed to act on behalf of your lender.

Not being on the electoral roll
One of the easiest ways for lenders to verify your identity is to check the electoral roll. If you are not registered, it may cause your application to take longer to process, and your credit score may be affected as well.

Not getting an agreement in principle
The housing market is competitive. Sellers may choose to accept an offer from someone with an agreement in principle rather than wait for you to contact a mortgage company.

Running up lots of credit
Taking on new debt may alter the state of your credit, which may prevent you from getting approved for your mortgage.

Changing jobs
Never change jobs in the middle of purchasing a property. It can make your employment look unstable, which makes you a weaker candidate for lenders.

If you are looking to purchase a property in Hampstead, please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk and we will add you to our early bird list so you can be one of the first people to hear about our new listings.