A springtime property MOT will enable you to tackle any issues while the weather is favourable and before the peak season for hiring plumbers, builders, and other contractors. The harsh winter months can often cause small problems, and if those are left unfixed, they can grow rapidly. Ensuring that you keep on top of maintenance will mean that fewer issues will arise with your property, which can also lead to happier tenants. Here are the top five things that you should do this spring to ensure that your property is kept in tip top shape.

Gutters

Blocked gutters and spring showers can cause damage to your property. To avoid leaks, always make sure that you clean out your gutters at least twice a year, once at the beginning of spring and once in the autumn once the leaves have stopped falling. 

Garden

Get on top of outdoor areas early, and they will be easy to maintain throughout the remainder of the spring and summer months. If your patio or paths are overrun with weeds, then clearing them promptly can prevent them from causing cracks and drainage issues. Once the paths and patio are clear, ensure that you fix or replace any broken patio slabs. Now is also the best time to prune trees to ensure that they aren’t encroaching where they shouldn’t be. 

Window and door seals

During periods of cold winter weather, wooden window and door trims may harden and crack. Repairing paintwork will help stop decay and keep leaks at bay. However, if degradation is already present and they are sufficiently damaged, it may be necessary to replace them.

Roof

Winter storms can give roofs a good battering, so take the opportunity that the warmer weather brings to give your roof a good inspection. Replacing missing or damaged tiles now can save you from expensive leaks later. Don’t forget to check your eaves for signs of nesting rodents, birds, or insects such as hornets. The earlier you find a problem and deal with it, the quicker and cheaper it is to solve. 

Bathroom extractor fan

Turn off the mains power switch, remove the cover, and soak it in soapy water. The inside of the fan also needs a good cleaning with a cloth and some bathroom cleaner. Make sure that it is fully dry before replacing the cover. Doing this will stop dirt and dust from getting in the way of the fan doing its job of preventing damp and mould in your bathroom.

Plumbing

Now is the ideal time to fix any issues with your plumbing, especially any to do with the heating. Autumn is the busiest time for plumbers, and in some areas, it can take up to three weeks for one to be available, so now is the best time to arrange for them to come and service your boiler or fix any niggling issues.

Smoke Detectors

You shouldn’t wait until spring to check these, but if you haven’t checked them recently, ensure that they are working and replace the batteries if necessary. 

If you would like to know more about how we can help you to manage your rental property in Hampstead, please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send us an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

Spring is here and for many of us that means it is time to spring clean. Our cleaning tips can help to make spring cleaning quick and easy, making your home a more pleasant and enjoyable place to live in.

Windows

The cleaner your windows are, the more light comes into your home. Washing your windows on a cloudy day stops the sun from drying them faster than you are washing them. This helps avoid having streaks on the glass.

Stainless Steel

Mix together 1tsp of washing up liquid with 1L of hot water. Use a cloth to rub the solution onto marks. Then rinse it off with hot water and dry with a clean cloth.

Pots and pans

Simmering a mixture of water and washing up liquid in a pan on a low heat can help to remove burned-on food residue. Use a scouring pad to remove any remaining stuck on bits. Ketchup can dissolve tarnish on copper pots. Rub the ketchup over the area that is tarnished and then rinse off.

Oven

Put a hot, wet cloth on top of baked-on grime to help to soften it. A sprinkle of baking powder and a heavy duty scouring pad will finish off the job. Then simply rinse it off and dry.

Microwave

Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water, a chopped up citrus fruit and a couple of tablespoons of vinegar and pop it in the microwave on its highest setting until the solution boils and the microwave is filled with steam. This loosens any dried on spills making them easier to wipe off.

Chopping Boards

Rub the cut side of a lemon wedge over a chopping board to help remove both stains and nasty lingering smells. Sprinkling it with salt or baking soda first can supercharge the cleaning effect of the lemon.

Shower curtains

Pop your shower curtains in your washing machine with a few towels on the wool cycle with your normal washing powder. Then hang them up to dry.

Children’s toys

Stuffed toys can be popped in a pillowcase and then into the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Plastic toys, secured inside a mesh bag come out of the dishwasher gleaming clean after a quick wash.

If you are considering selling your property in Hampstead then please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 and we will be delighted to offer you a free no-obligation valuation.

London’s weekend unfolds with a blend of cultural experiences, artistic discoveries, garden treasures, skyline soirées, and culinary escapades. Here’s a glimpse into the events happening in the city this weekend.

Paradise in Hampstead

Date: Various Dates
Location: South End Road, Hampstead
Website: http://paradisehampstead.co.uk/

Enjoy a gastronomic treat at Paradise in Hampstead. This restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and array of dishes that celebrate the diverse flavours of the Indian sub-continent. From innovative dishes to traditional favourites, Paradise invites diners to savour a blend of spices, textures, and aromas that create a memorable dining experience.

The Rolling Stones – Elegantly Wasted

Date: 28th Feb – 5th March
Location: Portobello Road, Notting Hill
Website: Art Gallery | J/M Gallery | Notting Hill (j-m.gallery)

This gallery showcases a diverse range of works by emerging and established artists. From paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations, J/M Gallery provides a platform for creativity and expression. This month the lost photos of Spanish Tony will be being exhibited. These are original, previously unseen photographs of The Rolling Stones, taken at their decadent peak by the photographer ‘Spanish Tony’ Sanchez. These iconic images will be on display and available to buy at J/M Gallery.

Judy Green’s Garden Store

Date: Various Dates
Location: Flask Walk, Hampstead
Website: Judy Green’s Garden Store

For garden enthusiasts and nature lovers, Judy Green’s Garden Store is a treasure trove of botanical delights. Located in Hampstead, this independent shop offers a unique range of garden items, plants and gifts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice plant parent, Judy Green’s Garden Store provides inspiration and a chance to bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home.

Madison London

Date: Various Dates
Location: St. Paul’s
Website: Restaurant St Pauls – Madison

Elevate your weekend with a sky-high soirée at Madison London. Nestled in the heart of the city, this rooftop venue offers panoramic views of London’s skyline. Whether you’re sipping on signature cocktails, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or dancing under the stars, Madison London provides a sophisticated and glamorous setting for a night to remember. It’s a chance to experience the city from new heights and revel in the ambiance of this chic rooftop destination.

New York Café

Date: Various Dates
Location: Heath Street, Camden
Website: New York Cafe

The team at New York Café believe that dining out should be an experience that engages all of your senses. They create dishes that not only taste amazing but also look and smell incredible. They believe that every meal should be a celebration and strive to make every visit to their restaurant a memorable one.

The city promises a weekend filled with cultural richness, artistic inspiration, and culinary delights. So, gather your friends, embrace the weekend spirit, and make the most of the enchanting offerings London has to offer. Happy weekend exploring!

Long-Term Growth for Flats:

The big news for potential flat buyers is that average prices have risen by a significant 8.5% compared to five years ago. This means you’re getting more for your money in the long run, even if the market might have cooled slightly recently.

Affordability Considerations:

While there’s positive long-term growth, there’s also a caveat. The report shows that achieved prices per square foot have dipped slightly over the last year, down 0.8% for flats. This suggests a potential market correction after a period of growth.

Speedier Sales:

If you’re a seller, there’s some good news! Hampstead appears to be a hot spot for quick sales. The report indicates that 20.8% of properties sold within just 3 months, compared to a much lower 14.6% average for the whole of Central London. This suggests high buyer interest in the area.

Price Points:

Looking at specific figures, the report reveals that properties sold in the last 3 months fetched an average price of £1,056,596 for flats and a much steeper £4,420,694 for houses.

Overall:

The Hampstead property market seems to be in a state of flux. While there’s long-term growth for flats and a seller’s advantage in terms of speed, recent price dips suggest a potential market shift.

Stay tuned! This blog will continue to monitor the Hampstead market and keep you updated on future trends.

The LonRes Lettings Report for Hampstead, covering November 2023 through January 2024, reveals a mixed performance in the letting market. While there is positive growth compared to last year, there has been a significant decrease in lettings compared to the previous quarter.

Key Findings

• Rental values averaged £833 per week for flats and £2,055 per week for houses.
• Average rents per square foot achieved £49.53 per annum, up from £45.87 over the same period last year but down from £51.70 six months ago.
• The number of properties let increased by 7.5% year-over-year but decreased by 43.3% compared to the prior quarter.
• Achieved rental values rose by 8% year-over-year but fell by 4.2% compared to the previous quarter.

Increase in Rents Compared to Last Year

The report indicates a positive trend in rental values compared to the same period last year. This suggests a potential rise in demand for rental properties in Hampstead.

Significant Decrease in Lettings Compared to Previous Quarter

While there is a year-over-year increase in lettings, the report highlights a substantial decrease in the number of properties let compared to the previous quarter. This could be due to seasonal fluctuations in the rental market or a shift in renter preferences.

Overall, the LonRes Lettings Report for Hampstead presents a mixed picture of the letting market. While there are positive signs of growth compared to last year, the significant decrease in lettings compared to the previous quarter warrants further observation.

In addition to the findings above, you may also want to consider including the following in your blog post:

• Local market insights: Is there any news or events that may have impacted the letting market in Hampstead during this period?
• Outlook for the future: What are some predictions for the Hampstead letting market in the coming months?

By incorporating this additional information, you can provide your readers with a more comprehensive understanding of the Hampstead letting market.

First impressions matter, and the effect of interior design decisions on potential buyers in Hampstead cannot be overstated. Despite the temporary nature of styling, seemingly superficial details can be highly off-putting to buyers. The importance of presenting a home well is underscored by the fact that 90% of buyers start their property search online, spending a mere 20 seconds on each listing, according to the Home Staging Association. In this fast-paced market, those initial seconds can make or break a potential sale.

Outdated style

Styles from decades past, particularly from the 60s and 70s, can clash with modern preferences. Quirky colour schemes, swirly carpets, and outdated furniture may be a nostalgic treat for the sellers but can date the entire house, creating a mismatch for prospective buyers.

Feature Walls

Once a popular trend in the early 2000s, feature walls have firmly fallen out of fashion. Kirsty Allsopp recently declared on Twitter/X “If you want your room to feel shorter, paint or wallpaper one wall differently to the other walls.”  Inoffensive and tastefully neutral interiors are generally preferred by sellers. The broader the appeal, the faster a property is likely to sell.

Taxidermy

This has had a slightly surprising revival but is still very divisive. Preserving animals as decor may be of interest to some, but for many potential buyers, it is an absolute turn-off.

Smells

Overpowering smells, like pet smells, damp, or cigarette smoke, can also be deal-breakers, emphasising the importance of ensuring that your property is clean and fresh-smelling before every viewing.

Clutter

Too much clutter or too many personal items pose another challenge. While a lived-in space helps buyers imagine themselves in the home, excessive personal touches may distract and even deter them. Striking the right balance between a property feeling sterile and having too much personality is crucial.

Aga

The decline in the popularity of the Aga serves as a reminder that even once highly coveted features can become turn-offs, particularly for younger buyers concerned about energy costs. Sellers should consider updating or converting such features to appeal to a broader audience.

Home staging is a valuable tool in a property sellers toolkit. According to the 2023 Home Staging Report staged homes, on average, sell 58 days faster than non-staged properties. If you don’t feel that you are able to stage your home yourself then there are professional home staging companies that can help you. Home staging can range from filling an empty house with furniture to subtle tweaks that enhance a property’s appeal.

While style plays a significant role, buyers must strike a balance, ensuring they do not overlook a great home due to minor stylistic issues. Ultimately, the condition and location of the house remain the most critical considerations, with style acting as a powerful but secondary influence in the home-buying decision.

If you are considering selling your property in Hampstead and would like some advice on how to get it market ready please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

Here’s a glimpse into the events happening in the city that promise to make this weekend memorable.

Battersea Light Festival 2024

Date: 25th Jan – 25th Feb
Location: Battersea Power Station
Website: https://batterseapowerstation.co.uk/events/light-festival-2024/

Kickstart your weekend with a spectacle of light at the Battersea Light Festival 2024. The iconic Battersea Power Station has transformed into a canvas of illuminated art, creating a mesmerising visual experience. From light installations to interactive displays, the Battersea Light Festival promises to enchant visitors with a dazzling showcase of creativity and innovation.

YSP x Roti King at Yard Sale Pizza

Date: 21st Feb – 19th Mar
Location: Balham, Clapton, Crystal Palace, Crofton Park, East Dulwich, Finsbury Park, Hackney Road, Leytonstone, Tottenham, Walthamstow
Website: YSP X ROTI KING – Yardsale (yardsalepizza.com)

Indulge in a culinary collaboration that brings together the flavours of Yard Sale Pizza and Roti King. This unique event promises a fusion of pizza creativity and Malaysian roti expertise. From innovative toppings to bold flavour combinations, YSP x Roti King at Yard Sale Pizza is a celebration of culinary exploration that invites food enthusiasts to savour the best of both worlds in a single bite.

Jamon Jamon

Date: Various Dates

Location: Soho, Camden, Belsize Park, Islington
Website: Jamon Jamon – Bar de Tapas & Paella

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Spain with a visit to Jamon Jamon. This Spanish tapas restaurant captures the essence of Iberian cuisine, offering an array of flavourful dishes inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Spain. From succulent jamón to mouthwatering paella, Jamon Jamon invites diners to experience the warmth and hospitality of Spanish dining in the heart of London.

Oddono’s Gelato

Date: Various Dates
Location: Hampstead
Website: http://www.oddonos.com/

Satisfy your sweet cravings with a visit to Oddono’s Gelato in Hampstead. Renowned for its authentic Italian gelato, this gelateria crafts a delectable array of frozen delights using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavours or prefer adventurous combinations, Oddono’s Gelato promises a refreshing and indulgent experience that transports you to the sun-drenched streets of Italy. 

The Holly Bush

Date: Various Dates
Location: Hampstead
Website: The Holly Bush

Wrap up your weekend with the historic charm of The Holly Bush in Hampstead. This traditional pub, nestled in a picturesque setting, invites visitors to unwind in a cosy atmosphere steeped in history. From crackling fires to a well-curated selection of drinks, The Holly Bush provides a quintessentially British pub experience. Whether you’re enjoying a Sunday roast or sipping on a pint, this pub offers a delightful conclusion to your weekend adventures.

Whether you’re captivated by the luminous wonders of Battersea Light Festival, savouring culinary collaborations at Yard Sale Pizza, indulging in Spanish tapas at Jamon Jamon, enjoying gelato delights at Oddono’s, or embracing the historic pub charm of The Holly Bush, the city promises a weekend filled with cultural richness, culinary delights, and timeless charm. So, gather your friends, embrace the weekend spirit, and make the most of the enchanting offerings London has to offer. Happy weekend exploring!

Moving into a new home is both exciting and daunting. Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned tenant, understanding what to expect can help make the transition smoother. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help make your move into your new home in Hampstead an easy and enjoyable one.

Inspection and Inventory

Before settling in, conduct a thorough inspection of the property. Document any existing damages, take photographs, and notify your letting agent or landlord. This ensures that you won’t be held responsible for pre-existing issues when it’s time to move out.

Tenancy Agreement

Understanding the terms of your tenancy agreement is crucial. Pay close attention to details such as when your rent is due, the length of your agreement, and any specific rules or restrictions that you need to abide by. Familiarise yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Utilities and Services

Contact the current utility providers for the property so that they can set up your account. If you would like to change providers then always make sure to inform your landlord or letting agent. Make a list of emergency contacts, including the local council and relevant service providers, and keep it handy for quick reference.

Additional Costs

In addition to the rent, be prepared for additional costs like council tax, contents insurance, and any service charges specified in your tenancy agreement. Planning your budget accordingly will help you manage your finances more effectively.

Personalise

While rental homes come with certain limitations, there’s still plenty of room for personalisation. With your landlord’s permission, consider adding decorative touches, such as curtains, rugs, or removable wallpaper, to make the space feel more like home.

Communicate

Establish clear lines of communication with your landlord or letting agent. Promptly report any maintenance issues, and seek permission before making significant alterations to the property. A good relationship with your landlord can make the whole renting experience more enjoyable for both sides.

Maintenance Responsibilities

Make sure that you understand which areas of maintenance you are responsible for. They will be outlined in your tenancy agreement. Generally, landlords are responsible for structural repairs, while tenants are expected to handle day-to-day maintenance. Keep a record of any communication related to repairs for future reference.

Community and Local Amenities:

Explore your new neighbourhood and find out where the local amenities are. Engaging with the local community will enhance your time living in your home.

Security and Safety Measures

Ensure your home is secure by checking the door and window locks. Have an exit plan in case of fire and ensure that you take all possible precautions to avoid one starting. Taking proactive steps towards safety will provide peace of mind.

Enjoy Your New Home

Moving into a new rental home is exciting. Understanding and preparing for these aspects of moving into a rental home can help you to navigate the process with confidence and make the most of your new home. Take time to settle in, meet your neighbours, and enjoy the experience.

We have helped hundreds of tenants settle into their new homes in Hampstead. If you are considering letting your property and would like to know how we can help you to find your ideal tenants or if you are looking for a new rental home in Hampstead please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 and we will be delighted to help you.

Moving to a new home can be both an exciting and stressful experience, whether you’re buying your home or moving to a new rented one. The process of packing up your life and moving to a new home often comes with its fair share of challenges. However, with careful planning, moving can be turned into a stress-free experience for everyone involved.

Plan Early

The key to a smooth move lies in meticulous planning. Begin by creating a comprehensive checklist that includes tasks such as decluttering, organising your belongings, and informing your utility companies and other service providers about your  impending move. Beginning your planning early means that you have more time to organise everything over a longer period of time which makes it into a less overwhelming experience.

Declutter

Moving home is an excellent opportunity to declutter. After all, the less you have, the less you have to pack. Decide what you truly need and want to take to your new home and donate or sell the rest.

Packing

Invest in good quality packing materials and pack room by room. Clearly label boxes with their contents and the room they belong to. This will make unpacking easier and will also help your movers to know which rooms to put boxes into in your new home. Always make sure that you make it clear on the box if it has fragile contents.

Professional Movers

If your budget allows, consider hiring professional movers. They are experienced at handling the logistics of a move, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and efficiently. Research reputable moving companies, read reviews, and obtain quotes to find the best company for your needs.

Notify Utility Companies

Ensure a smooth move by letting your utility, internet and any other relevant service providers know about your move well in advance. That way you can make sure that disconnections and reconnections match with your moving dates.

Moving Day Survival Kit

Pack a bag with essentials for the first night at your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any items you’ll need immediately. Having a moving day survival kit reduces the stress of searching through boxes for essential items.

Ask for Help

Having extra hands can make the whole process easier and faster. Consider organising a packing party or offering a meal as a thank you for their help.

Take Regular Breaks

Moving can be physically and emotionally draining. Remember to take regular breaks, and get a good night’s sleep before and after the move. Taking care of yourself ensures you’ll be better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise.

These strategies can help you to turn moving into a positive and manageable experience. We are always happy to share our home moving advice. If you are thinking of moving to a new home in Hampstead please don’t hesitate to contact us for more home moving advice