Halloween is a great opportunity to embrace spooky decorations and have some fun. However, if you’re planning to sell your home, you might be concerned about how your Halloween decorations could affect the opinions of prospective buyers. The good news is that you can still create a spine-tingling atmosphere without scaring away potential buyers. Here are some suggestions on how to decorate your home in NW London for Halloween and still keep it appealing to buyers.

Keep It Tasteful

Opt for elegant and understated Halloween decorations. Avoid gory or extreme decorations that some people might find distasteful. Instead, consider using classic Halloween decorations like pumpkins, witches’ hats, and friendly ghosts. Simple, tasteful decorations can still evoke the Halloween spirit without overwhelming visitors.

Highlight the Front Entrance

Concentrate your decorating efforts on the front of your property. This is the first impression buyers will have of your home, so make it inviting. Use pumpkins, autumn foliage, and warm lighting to create a welcoming and attractive entrance to your property. Make sure you avoid blocking the path or cluttering the entrance with too many decorations.

Incorporate Natural Elements

Decorate with natural items like pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves. These are not only appropriate for Halloween but also for the entire autumn season. Natural decorations add charm and warmth to your home.

Warm Lighting

Consider using soft, warm lighting to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. String lights, lanterns, or flameless candles can give your home a subtle Halloween glow that will enhance its appeal.

Seasonal Scents

Use scented candles or essential oil diffusers to infuse your home with pleasant, seasonal scents like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice. These scents help to create a welcoming atmosphere and make buyers feel at ease.

Avoid Excessive Decorations

While it’s fun to get into the Halloween spirit, be mindful of the quantity of decorations you use. Too many decorations can overwhelm buyers and make your home seem cluttered. Less is often more when it comes to seasonal decor.

Easy to Remove

Choose decorations that are easy to remove and store once Halloween is over. Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, and decorations that look like they may cause damage when removed may put them off.

Temporary Decor

If you want to go all out for Halloween, if possible, use removable and temporary decorations that don’t damage your property. Temporary decor can be easily taken down when you have potential buyers visiting.

Talk to your estate agent

Let your estate agent know about your plans to decorate for Halloween. They can offer guidance and schedule viewings accordingly, ensuring that your decorations won’t deter buyers.

Decorating your home for Halloween can be enjoyable and doesn’t need to cause concern for potential buyers. By focusing on tasteful, seasonally appropriate decor and keeping the front door inviting and well-lit, you can maintain the appeal of your home while celebrating Halloween. Remember to strike a balance between embracing the Halloween spirit and presenting a clean, welcoming environment for potential buyers.

If you would like more advice on how to make sure that your property in Hampstead is ready for viewings, no matter the season, please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send us  an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk and we will be happy to share our advice with you.

The weekend is upon us, and London is buzzing with a wide range of exciting events to suit every taste and age group. From ice skating to live music, film screenings, culinary delights, family fun, and cultural festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our guide to what’s happening in London this weekend.

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

Date: 21st Oct ‘23 to 24th Feb ‘24
Location: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf
Website: Ice Rink Canary Wharf

As the chill in the air begins to settle, there’s no better way to embrace the winter season than by lacing up your skates and hitting the ice. Ice Rink Canary Wharf offers a magical ice skating experience amidst the striking backdrop of Canary Wharf’s skyline. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a complete novice, this ice rink provides a festive and elegant setting for a memorable weekend activity.

Sodi Cookey Live at the Camden Club

Date: 20th October
Location: The Camden Club
Website: Sodi Cookey Live at The Camden Club Tickets

For music enthusiasts, the Camden Club has a special treat in store. Sodi Cookey, a talented artist known for his soulful and engaging performances, will be taking the stage for an unforgettable live music experience. His unique blend of soul, jazz, and pop is sure to get you grooving to the rhythm of his melodies. Don’t miss the chance to witness this exceptional artist in action.

Family Film Week Special Preview: ‘Oink’

Date: 21st October
Location: The Barbican
Website: Special Preview: Oink (U*)

A weekend outing that’s both fun and educational awaits families at the Barbican. As part of Family Film Week, the Barbican is hosting a special preview of ‘Oink’, a charming stop-motion film from the Netherlands that is not due to be released in the UK until 2024. So it’s a great opportunity to grab a super sneaky peek at a brand new story.

Before the film, there will be a fun on-stage film quiz to test your knowledge of animals on film. It’s a great way to introduce your children to the magic of cinema and enjoy some quality family time.

Bagel Extravaganza 

Date: See website for opening times
Location: It’s Bagel’s!, Primrose Hill
Website: it’s bagels!

Calling all foodies! If your idea of a perfect weekend involves culinary adventures, don’t miss It’s Bagels. This food haven offers a delightful array of bagels that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic combinations to creative concoctions, this is a must-visit spot for bagel lovers.

Fantastical Creatures Clay Modelling

Date: 21st October
Location: Leighton House
Website: Fantastical Creatures Clay Modelling

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has something special for families this weekend. Join in with the clay modelling workshop, where you can let your creativity run wild and create your very own fantastical creatures. It’s a fantastic opportunity for children and adults alike to explore their artistic side and have fun sculpting imaginative figures.

Bloomsbury Festival

Date: 13th to 22nd October
Location: Bloomsbury
Website: Bloomsbury Festival

If you’re looking for a cultural experience, the Bloomsbury Festival is the place to be. This vibrant event celebrates the rich tapestry of arts, culture, and local talent in the Bloomsbury area. With a diverse lineup of performances, exhibitions, and activities, you can immerse yourself in the artistic heart of London.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic date, or a solo adventure, London has something on for you this weekend. So, take your pick from these enticing events and make the most of your leisure time in our vibrant city.

Moving home can be a daunting and stressful experience, but with the right information and advice, the whole process can be made easier, smoother, and less anxiety-inducing. Google can be a great source of information and is the first place many of us turn with a question, so with that in mind, we thought we would share our answers to the three most Googled home moving questions in NW London.

Council Tax

According to Google the most-searched question related to moving is about Council Tax.

The amount of Council Tax you pay depends on your local council and the area or ‘band’ you reside in. Fortunately, obtaining this information has become easier in recent years; you can find the specific Council Tax band and rate for your new home on the gov.uk website by simply entering your postcode.

Estate and letting agents are now legally obligated to include what is considered ‘material information’ in their property listings. This includes disclosing the Council Tax band and rate, ensuring that potential homebuyers and renters are aware of this important information.

Updating your address

The second most searched for question on Google about moving was about how to update your address with all of the organisations and companies that need to know you have moved.

One of the most important tasks that you will have to undertake when moving is to update your address with various organisations, such as banks, insurance companies, utility companies, and internet providers. To simplify this process, it’s advisable to create a list well in advance of your move. Go through your monthly bank statements, keep a list of any subscriptions you receive via post, and compile a comprehensive list of companies that need to be informed of your new address.

Packing

It is no surprise that tips on packing to move home is the third most frequently searched subject about moving on Google. Packing can be a daunting task, but starting early is the key to reducing stress. Consider packing items you won’t need before your move and declutter by discarding items you no longer use.

Cats

Another common question that home movers ask Google concerns their furry friends. How long to keep a cat indoors after a move is the fourth most common question that Google is asked about moving home.

The RSPCA advises keeping your cat indoors for at least two weeks after you move to ensure they become familiar with their new home and neighbourhood, reducing the risk of them trying to return to their old home.

Moving home can be a challenging and complicated process, but it’s reassuring to know that you can get answers to your questions and that there are resources available to make it easier. At Vita Properties, we understand that you may have numerous questions throughout the moving process, and we are committed to ensuring that none of your questions go unanswered, no matter where you are in the journey of finding your new home in  Hampstead, so please do give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk with any queries you may have, and we will do our best to answer them.

The government recently published guidance for both private and social landlords, ushering in a dramatic shift in the way that mould is approached in rental houses by prohibiting the practice of blaming tenants’ damp and mould problems on their “lifestyle choices.”

Are you wondering what this means for you and your tenants? Here are the key legal obligations and recommendations for landlords:

Legal Obligations:

Freedom from “Category 1” Hazards
The Housing Act 2004 mandates that properties, assessed through the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), must be free from Category 1 hazards, including damp and mould.

Health Impact
Damp and mould, if detrimental to a tenant’s health, can qualify as a “statutory nuisance” under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, permitting local councils to take legal action against landlords.

Fitness for Human Habitation
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 necessitates that properties remain free from severe damp and mould that could endanger tenants’ health. While no specific timeframe is set for remedial work, landlords are urged to promptly address these issues.

Decent Homes Standard
Social housing and, soon, private rented homes must conform to the Decent Homes Standard, which demands freedom from Category 1 hazards and ensures reasonable states of repair and thermal comfort.

Energy Efficiency
Although not directly addressing damp and mould, increasing energy efficiency in your property can mitigate condensation risks. Landlords must ensure their properties meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, currently set at EPC E, with potential future requirements increasing to EPC C.

Responding to Reports of Damp and Mould:

• You must act promptly when tenants report issues.
• Address underlying problems, especially those that can affect the health of your tenants.
• Keep tenants informed of repair plans and timelines.
• Document and photograph issues.
• Engage qualified professionals if necessary for mould removal.
• Identify and rectify the root cause.
• Conduct follow-up inspections to prevent it from reoccurring.

Preventing Damp and Mould:

• Keep records of any reports of damp and mould in your property.
• Regularly inspect your property to identify any potential risks.
• Provide support to tenants concerning energy efficiency if it contributes to damp problems.
• Collaborate with health professionals to assess tenant health risks.
• Ensure your letting agent comprehends the importance of addressing damp and mould.
• Encourage tenants to promptly report concerns related to damp and mould.

Common Causes of Damp and Mould:

• Inadequate ventilation or permanently closed windows.
• Insufficient insulation.
• Ineffective heating systems.
• Poor property maintenance.
• Overcrowding.
• Absence of damp proof courses.

Importantly, attributing damp and mould issues solely to tenants’ “lifestyle choices” is deemed unjust. Instead, landlords should work cooperatively with tenants to implement reasonable adjustments for effective issue resolution.

If you would like to know how we support our landlords in Hampstead to rectify damp and mould problems in their properties please give us  a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

London is bustling this weekend with a range of events to cater to every taste and mood. From cocktail enthusiasts to horror fans and wellness seekers, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into these exciting events happening this weekend.

London Cocktail Week 2023

Date: 12th to 22nd Oct                                                                                                           

Location: Hundreds of London’s Best Bars                                                                                                          

Website: London Cocktail Week 2023

Calling all cocktail aficionados! London Cocktail Week is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever. If you appreciate the art of mixology, you’re in for a treat. With over 300 bars participating in this annual event, you’re in for a treat, discovering the most innovative and tantalising cocktails the city has to offer.

The event allows you to explore an array of cocktail creations with your LCW pass, which is your golden ticket to cocktails at just £7 each. Sip and savour a wide variety of beverages, attend masterclasses, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the secrets of the city’s top mixologists. It’s a must for those who love the craft of cocktail-making and want to enjoy a delightful weekend filled with unique libations.

The British Horror Film Festival 2023

Date: 13th to 14th Oct                                                                                                           

Location: The British Museum                                                                                                          

Website: The British Horror Film Festival 2023

Are you ready to get your adrenaline pumping and your heart racing? The British Horror Film Festival is a must-visit for fans of all things spooky, creepy, and macabre. With a selection of terrifying films from around the world, this event is a chilling exploration of the horror genre.

The festival offers an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of horror and suspense, showcasing both classic and new, groundbreaking films. Whether you’re an avid horror fan or just looking to experience a spine-tingling night, you’ll find the British Horror Film Festival to be an unforgettable and thrilling event.

OM Yoga Show

Date: 13th to 14th Oct                                                                                                           

Location: Alexandra Palace                                                                                                          

Website: OM Yoga Show

For those seeking a more peaceful and mindful weekend experience, the OM Yoga Show is your perfect destination. This event focuses on holistic well-being, offering yoga classes, workshops, and a marketplace for yoga enthusiasts and novices alike.

Explore various yoga styles, meditative practices, and wellness solutions while also discovering new products and techniques to enhance your journey to a balanced and centered life. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or just looking to dip your toes into the world of yoga, this show is an ideal place to explore and nourish your mind, body, and soul.

Pumpkin Picking

Date: Various dates                                                                                                           

Location: Multiple Locations                                                                                                          

Website: Pumpkin Patches And Farms Near London

If you’re yearning for a wholesome family outing or a romantic day in the countryside, the pumpkin picking farms near London offer the quintessential autumn experience. From mazes and tractor rides to apple-picking and cosy cafés, these places are perfect for celebrating the season.

You can find these delightful spots just a short drive away from the city, making for a wonderful day trip to immerse yourself in the autumn spirit. Pick the perfect pumpkin, snap some Instagram-worthy photos, and enjoy the natural beauty and rural charm that the autumn season has to offer.

No matter what your interests may be, London has something special for you this weekend. So, gather your friends and family and embark on an adventure, whether it’s indulging in cocktails, getting your fright on, finding your zen, or celebrating the beauty of autumn in the countryside.

As the recent hot weather begins to fade to a distant memory and shorter, darker evenings herald the arrival of autumn, it’s prudent to prepare your home and garden for the approaching winter months.

This is our comprehensive guide to the essential maintenance tasks that you should carry out this month to ensure that your property in NW London is prepared for the colder months.

Fencing

Autumn brings with it increased levels of rainfall and stronger winds, so it is essential to make sure your fencing is in good condition. Make sure all panels and posts are firmly anchored in place. Replace or repair any split or damaged panels to prevent the need for emergency repairs during stormy weather. Applying a wood preservative or protective oil can add an extra layer of defense against the elements, prolonging the life of your fencing.

Lawn

Continue regularly mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Maintain it at a height of around two inches to prevent matting, mould growth, and diseases. Be careful not to cut it too short as that can lead to unsightly patches that struggle to regrow.

Tidy

Give your garden a thorough tidy up and a good clean. Wash paved areas, weed flower beds, rake fallen leaves from the lawn, and tidy away any other debris that may have accumulated during the summer months.

Windows

As temperatures drop, check your windows for any signs of leaks. Even tiny gaps between the sealant and the glass can lead to water damage and increase your heating bills. Ensuring the sealant around your windows is in good condition can help keep water out and heat in.

Garden Furniture

Store garden furniture, outdoor lights, and lanterns somewhere dry and sheltered to prolong their lifespan. If space is limited, consider investing in high-quality outdoor furniture covers to shield them from the elements.

Gutters

Prevent potential leaks by clearing drains and gutters of debris. Consider installing drain protectors to prevent blockages caused by fallen leaves, minimising the risk of water damage to your property.

Pipes

Protect exposed pipes from freezing weather by insulating them. A brief check of your property, inside and out, will help you to identify which pipes need insulation to prevent freezing and the potential issues that can be caused by it.

Roof

Conduct a thorough inspection of your roof. Look for any loose tiles or signs of leaks. If you spot any issues, it’s important to have them professionally repaired promptly to prevent more extensive damage from being caused.

Paint

Take advantage of any sunny days to apply a fresh coat of paint or protective oil to your outdoor furniture, sheds, and fencing panels. This will provide an additional barrier against the harsh winter elements, extending their lifespan.

By being proactive as the seasons change, you’ll ensure that your home and garden are well-maintained, protected, and ready to withstand the challenges the colder weather presents.

If you are considering selling your property in Hampstead and would like to know more about what you can do to prepare your property for sale during the colder months, please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

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.