As individuals, the WPR team is delighted (as we’re sure you are, too) with the fact that the weather is turning, the garden is growing and the flowers are blooming. As Surrey and Hampshire estate agents, we’re also delighted with official reports that property prices are also showing signs of growth.
Yes, spring is always a good time for the property market – particularly once the clocks go forward, which, thankfully, has now happened.
Properties look their best in sunnier weather, longer daylight hours support more flexible viewing times and let’s face it – we all feel more inclined to make a change when the sun’s shining.
Property prices on the up
According to a news article in the Independent, UK property prices grew by 2.2 per cent in March – up from 1 per cent in February.
However, it’s important to note that the same article suggests that this could be the calm before the storm as the fallout from the US-Iran war continues to unfold.
As it stands, there is no clear end to the conflict in sight. However, based on this week’s property price revelations, what is clear is that the beginning of spring could be an ideal time to sell your property – particularly if things are going to change as we progress through the season.
Whilst none of us have any control over what’s happening overseas, we do have control over when we decide to move. So, if you are thinking of capitalising on March’s property price growth, here are three things to think about.
1. Curb appeal counts
Whilst the sun shines a more favourable light on properties as the season changes, the canvas itself needs to be in good shape, too. Use this time to get the garden sale-ready by ensuring that the lawn looks its best, the weeds have been dealt with and any cutting back has taken place prior to arranging any professional photography via your estate agent. We know from experience that it can make all the difference.
2. Set the stage
Staging a property is also critical when it comes to a spring sale. Our team of Hampshire and Surrey estate agents always recommend that key living areas such as the kitchen, living room and bathrooms look fresh when it comes to viewings. Whether you achieve this through a new coat of paint or addressing the lighting, getting the internals up to scratch before listing your property should be high on the priority list.
3. Get the price right
It sounds crazy, but estate agents often get this wrong – and it’s usually by setting the price too high in order to secure an instruction (it’s hard for people to not go with the estate agent that advises a higher price). However, if the price is set too high then the property won’t generate the desired interest and runs the risk of staying on the market for too long, the result of which can put people off. Our team of estate agents in Surrey and estate agents in Hampshire are local property experts, so they understand their respective areas. This means that the prices we advise aim to appeal to the buyers, and not just the sellers, right from the moment we launch a property.
A balanced view
As we enter a much-loved season, we’re faced with a double-edged sword: rising prices in tandem with increasing conflict. As a result, homeowners are likely to approach selling their property with a degree of caution. Our advice would be to contact one of our Hampshire and Surrey property experts, who will be able to give you a balanced view of the current market and guide your next steps towards selling your property.
Get in touch with your nearest WPR branch using the numbers below. In the meantime, for an instant online valuation of your property click here.
| Alton | Farnham | Godalming | Grayshott | Haslemere |
| 01420 87379 | 01252 715031 | 01483 478200 | 01428 604016 | 01428 656596 |