These are the top 10 things that homebuyers in Hampstead are prioritising in their property searches in 2024.

Open plan living

The versatility offered by open-plan living and the existence of a large communal area that is perfect for both gatherings and busy family life is highly sought after by buyers.

Home Office

Working from home is no longer unusual and as a result many buyers place a lot of value on having an office space that is separate from the rest of the home.

Modern Kitchens

Efficient, sleek and modern kitchens have been topping buyers’ must-have lists for several years now.

Pantry

Space is important to buyers. Pantries offer the ability to create space in the kitchen by storing everything you need in there. They are perfect for stashing away a large weekly shop or for hiding away bulk buys with ease.

Kitchen Islands

Providing extra surface space, storage and an attractive focal point, kitchen islands are high up on the list of desirable features for many buyers.

Storage

Buyers are looking for properties that feel spacious and storage is key to this. Ample built-in storage is very attractive to buyers.

Hardwood Flooring

Durable, easy to maintain and long lasting, it is easy to see why hardwood floors are popular with buyers.

Outdoor Entertaining Areas

Areas to socialise in have been especially important for buyers since the pandemic and outdoor areas to host gatherings in are particularly popular.

Garages/outbuildings

Post-pandemic buyers place a lot of value on having space at home to undertake DIY projects or simply store their belongings without encroaching on their living area.

Going Green

Soaring energy bills, the high cost of living and an awareness of our individual contributions to climate change have meant that properties with EPC (energy performance certificates) ratings of C or above are attracting more attention from potential buyers than properties with a large carbon footprint.

If you are considering putting your property in Hampstead on the market in 2024 please do give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or email enquiries@vitaproperties.uk  and we will be delighted to come and give you a free no-obligation valuation.

When choosing an estate agent to sell your home in Hampstead beware of selecting one based purely on the fact that they have given you the highest valuation.

This is because often after a few months, without any offers, they will then suggest that you lower your asking price to create some interest. What this actually means is that you will be reducing your price to what it should have been put on the market for in the first place.

Many people think “but we can always take an offer/it’s worth a try”. However, there are several problems with this approach.

Firstly, buyer activity is always highest when a property is first added to the market. This can lead to a sense of competition between buyers which drives the price up.

Secondly, the longer a property remains on the market, the more inclined prospective buyers are to think that there must be something wrong with it as no one else has bought it. This has the effect of devaluing your property.

Finally, potential buyers look at properties in a price bracket that they can afford. If your property is overvalued then it will not be seen by the people that you want to see it. Instead, it will be seen by buyers looking in a higher price bracket who will find that it compares unfavourably with the other properties in that bracket that have been given realistic valuations.

Remember if your property is valued correctly you will be able to secure the best possible price in a very short period of time.

Call us today for a free no-obligation valuation on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk  and we will help you to achieve your home-moving dreams.

This weekend in London is filled with a delightful mix of whimsical theatrical experiences, culinary explorations, burlesque enchantments, and rooftop soirées. Here’s a glimpse into the events happening in the city that promise to make this weekend memorable.

The Macmillan’s Mad Hatter Tea Party

Date: 4th Feb
Location: Millfield Theatre, Edmonton
Website: millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Step into a world of whimsy and wonder at The Macmillan’s Mad Hatter Tea Party at Millfield Theatre. This theatrical event promises to transport attendees into the enchanting realm of Lewis Carroll’s classic tales. With eccentric characters, delightful performances, and a tea party inspired by the whimsical Mad Hatter, it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a fantastical experience filled with laughter, entertainment, and the magic of storytelling while raising money for a good cause.

Clap Restaurant

Date: Various Dates
Location: Knightsbridge
Website: Clap London

Clap Restaurant is a fine-dining Japanese restaurant located in Knightsbridge. With a commitment to providing a unique dining experience, this restaurant boasts a menu that combines innovation with tradition. Whether you’re seeking exquisite flavours, artistic presentations, or a cosy ambiance to savour your meal, Clap Restaurant invites you to embark on a culinary journey that elevates the senses and showcases the diversity of modern gastronomy.

The Coffee Cup

Date: Various Dates
Location: Knightsbridge
Website: Clap London

Coffee aficionados, prepare for a journey into the aromas and flavours of coffee at The Coffee Cup. For over 50 years this iconic coffee lounge has treated the Hampstead population to great coffee, tea, and… raisin toast! Every cup of coffee and every bite tells a story of unwavering dedication to quality and community.

An Evening of Burlesque

Date: 3rd Feb
Location: Fairfield Ashcroft Theatre, Croydon
Website: An Evening of Burlesque

Indulge in a night of glamour and entertainment with “An Evening of Burlesque” at Fairfield Halls. This tantalising show brings together the art of burlesque, combining seductive performances with theatrical flair. With glamorous costumes, captivating choreography, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s an evening that promises to captivate and transport audiences to the golden era of burlesque.

Ground One Six

Date: Various Dates
Location: Belsize Park
Website: Ground One Six

GROUND ONE SIX’s showroom in London’s Belsize Park features a curated collection of fine 20th Century design and art. It is filled with intriguing designs of furniture, lighting, crafts and decorative arts, collectable homeware, and modern art.

As the weekend unfolds, London invites you to explore a tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re attending The Macmillan’s Mad Hatter Tea Party, savouring culinary delights at Clap Restaurant, delving into the world of coffee at The Coffee Cup, indulging in burlesque glamour at Fairfield Ashcroft Theatre, or finding a unique piece of furniture for your home at Ground One Six, the city promises a weekend filled with cultural richness, culinary delights, and enjoyable experiences. So, gather your friends, embrace the weekend spirit, and make the most of the enchanting offerings London has to offer. Happy weekend exploring!

During winter it is tempting to prioritise snuggling under a warm blanket over cleaning but neglecting your home can cause it to become an uninviting place to live and can even lead to it becoming a health hazard! Here are some essential winter cleaning tasks you need to include in your winter cleaning routine to ensure you live in a cosy and healthy home.

Carpets

During winter we tend to bring in a lot of dirt, mud, and moisture from the outside. With people tracking in snow and slush, your carpets can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. Deep cleaning of your carpets can help to remove any accumulated grime and prevent bacteria and mould from having the chance to grow. Consider hiring a carpet cleaning machine or employing a professional carpet cleaner to ensure a thorough job.

Winter Bedding

In the winter we tend to spend more time indoors, especially in bed. Make sure your bedding stays fresh and clean by washing it regularly. This not only helps maintain a hygienic sleeping environment but also helps to keep you warm and comfortable on chilly nights.

Dust and Vacuum

Many people tend to keep their windows and doors closed during the winter to keep the cold out. This can negatively affect the air quality inside their homes. When all the doors and windows are kept closed dust tends to accumulate more quickly, which can exacerbate respiratory issues. To combat this, dust surfaces and vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly. Don’t forget oft-neglected areas such as skirting boards and behind furniture.

Central Heating

Your central heating works overtime during winter. To ensure that it stays efficient and to prevent potential hazards, make sure that you have it regularly checked and serviced by a qualified heating engineer.

Declutter

We all tend to spend more time indoors during winter which makes it a perfect time to declutter and organise your home. Tackle one room at a time, getting rid of items you no longer need and allocating a designated storage space for the rest. A clutter-free home not only looks more inviting but also contributes to a stress-free living environment.

Winter Gear

Winter gear, such as boots, jackets, and scarves, can bring in a lot of dirt and moisture from the outdoors. Regularly clean them to ensure that they stay in good condition and are ready for use when needed. This can also help to prevent the spread of dirt throughout your home.

Incorporating these cleaning tasks into your winter routine can help you to maintain a cosy, healthy, and welcoming home. If you are considering selling your property in Hampstead then these cleaning tasks are a great way to start getting your property ready to put on the market. If you would like more advice on how to get your property in Hampstead market ready please give us a call on 020 7759 2199  or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.

Here’s a sneak peek into the events happening in London that promise to make this weekend truly special.

Alegria: In a New Light

Date: 11th Jan – 3rd Mar
Location: Royal Albert Hall
Website: Cirque Du Soleil

Embark on a spectacular circus journey with Alegria: In a New Light at the Royal Albert Hall. This mesmerising show is Cirque du Soleil’s most iconic production. Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, this all-time classic has been reimagined for a new generation to fall in love with. It will whisk audiences away to a mystical world sprinkled with visual poetry and acrobatic extravagance.

Adams Antiques Fairs

Date: Various Dates
Location: The Horticultural Halls, Elverton Street
Website: Adams Antiques Fairs

For those with a penchant for vintage finds and antique treasures, Adams Antiques Fairs are a must visit. These fairs have been taking place regularly throughout the year for over 50 years and buyers travel from across the world to visit them. They are an extremely popular event and the morning queue normally goes right around the block.  

Patara

Date: Various Dates
Location: Knightsbridge, South Kensington, Oxford Circus, Hamstead, Wimbledon, Soho
Website: Patara-London-Home

Indulge your taste buds in the gastronomic wonders of Patara, a culinary haven for Thai food enthusiasts. With multiple locations across London, Patara focuses on the great quality and fine presentation of Thai dishes, both traditional and contemporary.
Patara promises a dining experience that elevates the senses and showcases the culinary mastery of Thai cooking.

Must World Wine Tasting Tour

Date: Various Dates
Location: Islington, Wanstead, St Albans, Hampstead
Website: Tastings – MUST Wine

Wine connoisseurs, rejoice! Must Wine invites you to indulge in tastings that showcase the finest selections of wines from around the world. With an emphasis on quality and a commitment to providing unique wine experiences, Must Wine creates an environment where enthusiasts can savour the complexities and nuances of different vintages. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or a curious novice, these tastings offer a journey into the world of wine appreciation.

7 Sky Spa

Date: Various Dates
Location: Newman Street
Website: Sky Spa

Elevate your weekend with a sky-high spa retreat at 7 Sky Spa. Nestled in the heart of the city, this spa offers a tranquil oasis where guests can escape the urban hustle and unwind in luxurious surroundings. From rejuvenating massages to soothing treatments, 7 Sky Spa provides a haven for relaxation and self-care. 

As the weekend unfolds, London invites you to immerse yourself in a tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re captivated by the circus magic of Cirque de Soleil, uncovering antique treasures at Adams Antiques Fairs, savouring Thai delights at Patara, indulging in wine tastings at a Must World Wine Tasting Tour event, or are reaching new heights of relaxation at 7 Sky Spa, the city promises a weekend filled with cultural richness, culinary delights, and luxurious retreats. So, gather your friends, embrace the weekend spirit, and make the most of the enchanting offerings London has to offer. Happy weekend exploring!

Moving home is always a stressful process, filled with a myriad of tasks to check off your to-do list. When moving out of a rental property there is one crucial decision that often arises and that is whether to opt for a professional cleaning service or tackle the cleaning chores yourself. Many tenancy agreements stipulate that you must employ a professional cleaning company when moving out. However, that is not always the case. While doing the cleaning yourself may seem like a cost-effective solution, there are compelling reasons why investing in a professional clean is the best decision.

High Standards

Rental agreements typically stipulate that tenants must return the property in the same condition as when they moved in. Professional cleaning companies are well-versed in the industry standards and know exactly what landlords and property managers look for during the final inspection. They can ensure that every nook and cranny is thoroughly cleaned, meeting the high cleanliness standards required by landlords to get your full deposit back.

Time

Moving is a time-consuming process, and cleaning an entire property on your own can be a significant drain on your time and energy. Professional cleaning companies are equipped with the necessary tools, expertise, and a team of trained professionals to efficiently handle the job. This allows you to focus on other essential aspects of your move, making the whole thing smoother and less overwhelming.

Deposit

One of the primary motivations for most tenants when investing in a professional clean is in order to get their full deposit back. Landlords often deduct money from deposits if they do not feel that the property has been returned in the same condition that it was in at the beginning of the tenancy. By opting to have a professional clean done tenants can provide concrete evidence that the property has been thoroughly cleaned, reducing the risk of any deductions.

Hidden Issues

Professional cleaners have an eye for detail and can identify hidden issues that may go unnoticed during a domestic clean. From lingering odours to hidden stains, they have the expertise and tools to address and rectify these issues. This attention to detail ensures that the property is not only visibly clean but they can also address potential issues before they are flagged up at the check-out.

Peace of Mind

Moving is undeniably a stressful experience, and knowing that you’ve entrusted the cleaning to professionals can offer peace of mind. It alleviates the worry of whether you’ve missed any crucial cleaning tasks and allows you to focus on settling into your new home.

While a domestic cleaning may seem like a cost-effective option, investing in a professional cleaning service when moving out of a rental property is a wise decision. It not only saves you time and effort but also ensures that you meet the high cleanliness standards required by landlords, giving you the best chance of receiving your full deposit back. The peace of mind and guarantee of a job well done make a professional clean a valuable investment in the midst of the chaos of moving.

If you are considering letting your property in Hampstead and would like to know more about our property management services please give us a call on 020 7759 2199 or send an email to enquiries@vitaproperties.uk.