When buying a property with the intention of flipping it, it’s important to consider whether the renovations you’re making are worthwhile. As such, here is the ultimate guide on how to spot a property with potential to add value.

Is the property in a desirable location?

Location is one of the most important factors to consider when it comes to determining the value of a property. Sometimes a property with potential is ‘the worst house on the best street’. This is why location is key, as you can’t change a home’s surroundings, but you can certainly improve the home itself.

Does the property offer space for conversion? 

A decent-sized loft or basement is something that you should keep an eye out for. These empty spaces offer the opportunity to add another bedroom, bathroom, or living area, making the property more spacious and, in turn, more attractive to buyers when it comes to selling in the future. 

Can the layout be improved with minor change? 

Try not to dismiss properties that are very segmented in their layout. Often, homes with separate rooms can easily be transformed into an open-plan layout. Keep a close eye out for properties where there is a small kitchen next to a large dining room that could be knocked through or a bathroom next to the main bedroom that could be transformed into an ensuite. 

Does the property have the potential to improve its EPC rating? 

It’s important to not disregard properties that currently have a low EPC rating. There are many ways you can increase an EPC rating by installing insulation, double or triple-glazed windows, a new heating system, energy-efficient bulbs, and many more. Selling the property in the future with a bad EPC rating will affect the value to potential buyers, so enhancing energy efficiency is a worthwhile investment.

Can all the property’s negatives be fixed?

When viewing a fixer-upper, you need to identify all the negatives so you can understand how simple it would be to solve them. You can provide the property with new windows and a paint job, but you can’t move the property away from a noisy main road. By having this in-depth screening of the property’s negatives, you can identify what changes you can approach efficiently.

How an agent can help

It can often seem that properties with clear project potential are hard to come by, but by enlisting the support of an expert agent, they can help you find the perfect fixer upper. As well as finding your dream home with potential, we can also support the sale of your current home, creating ease throughout your entire property journey.

The UK property market is full of opportunities at any time of the year. However, every season has its positives, and winter is no exception. So, what are they? And why else could this winter be your chance to move?

More competitive mortgage deals

This winter is looking a lot better than last year when it comes to getting a good mortgage deal. Better mortgage deals mean lower monthly mortgage repayments. Waiting to move can be agonising, especially when the opportunity to buy the home you really want passes you by. Now that better deals are here, the waiting is over, and buyers have a better chance of securing the property they have wanted for so long.  

Favourable market conditions

During the summer, the number of sellers entering the market increased by 5% compared to the same period last year.* This is due to increasing confidence. The market is also showing positive signs in terms of pricing. House prices are strong and healthy, providing excellent value without becoming overinflated. This means sellers and buyers get a good deal.

Motivated buyers

Over the winter months, some homemovers hibernate, leaving those who are serious about moving remaining in the market. That means potential buyers viewing your home are highly motivated. So, if you are selling your property, you may receive an offer more quickly than you expected. Some sellers may delay their moves until the spring, which could make it easier for a buyer to discover your home.

First time buyer schemes 

The First Homes Scheme can allow some first-time buyers to get on the property ladder with 30%–50% discounts.** Some councils may have different criteria, but the good news is that this applies to both newly built homes and those previously purchased through the scheme. The mortgage guarantee scheme is also in place, which can help first-time buyers get on the property ladder with a 5%** deposit.

Potentially less competition 

Winter creates a desire to curl up in front of the fire and relax. With fewer buyers venturing out in the cold you may have less competition when making an offer. While other potential buyers are snoozing, your offer might be accepted, and you could finally get the keys to your dream property. That said, there are many buyers who are looking to find a home before Christmas or in the New Year to make a fresh start.

Making an early start 

Winter is long but can quickly pass by, just like many of life’s opportunities. The run-up to Christmas, the New Year, and the approaching spring stand out in our minds as good times to enter the property market. Whenever you choose to move, making an early start always helps. Then, when the right property appears, you are already well on your way. Understanding the value of your property and keeping an eye on listings is an excellent starting point.

If you’re looking to get on the property ladder, 2025 could be the perfect time to do exactly that. With a balanced, stable market offering exciting opportunities for first-time buyers, all you need is the help of a reputable estate agent to find your perfect property. Let’s take a look at why the market looks to be heading in the right direction for first-time buyers.

The market is balanced

One of the best reasons to step onto the property ladder in 2025 is that levels of supply and demand are becoming increasingly balanced. With the number of homes for sale hitting a seven-year high in August 2024*, buyers have much more choice, and market activity is very strong.

Mortgage rates are trending downward

Mortgage rates have been hovering around 4.5% for a 5-year fixed rate deal*, and there’s optimism that they will continue to stabilise or even decrease in 2025. Historically, this tends to lead to an increase in buyer activity as homes become more affordable, particularly for first-time buyers.

House prices are increasing steadily

Unlike the overheated property market of recent years, 2024 has seen a steadier, more sustainable growth in house prices. The slow increase in house prices is expected to continue into 2025, which will benefit first-time buyers as affordability levels stay strong. This allows you to take your time searching for your perfect property without worrying about prices suddenly skyrocketing.

Consumer confidence is high

A healthy economy is key to a buoyant housing market, and the UK’s economic outlook for 2025 is looking positive. With average salaries rising, consumers are feeling increasingly positive about their financial situation, which is translating into a stronger housing market. With more people confident in making significant financial decisions like buying a home, 2025 is likely to see continued activity in the housing sector.

Labour plan to make changes

Following their election victory, Labour have pledged to introduce a permanent mortgage guarantee scheme and allow first-time buyers to buy homes before international investors. This should make it easier to access the property ladder, as it should improve both affordability and availability.

Also included in their manifesto was the ‘Warm Homes Plan’, which will provide grants and low-interest loans for energy-efficient features such as solar panels, insulation, and low-carbon heating to lower household bills.

We’re here to help

As a reputable estate agent, we can play a crucial role in helping first-time buyers navigate the 2025 housing market. By offering expert advice on competitive pricing, mortgage options, and local market conditions, we can help you capitalise on the balanced market conditions that are expected to continue into next year.

With mortgage rates stabilising and economic confidence on the rise, we can guide you through the mortgage pre-approval process and find properties that meet your budget and preferences.

Selling your home is no simple feat, and viewings are one of the most critical parts of the process. While some people choose to conduct their own viewings, there are distinct advantages to letting your estate agent take the reins.

Here are some key benefits of allowing your agent to manage your property viewings:

Professional experience and expertise

Estate agents are trained professionals with extensive experience in conducting property viewings. They know how to highlight the best features of your home and answer difficult buyer questions confidently. Their expertise allows them to present your property in its best light, appealing to a broad range of potential buyers.

Objectivity and neutrality

As a homeowner, you’re emotionally invested in your property, which can make it difficult to remain impartial during viewings. Buyers may feel hesitant to express concerns or ask difficult questions if the seller is present. An agent acts as an objective, neutral party, allowing potential buyers to give honest feedback and explore the property without feeling pressured.

Better time management

Allowing your agent to handle viewings frees up your time, especially if you're balancing work, family, or preparing for your next move. Estate agents can schedule and coordinate viewings around the buyers' availability, ensuring flexibility while removing the need for you to be on call at all hours.

Tailored to buyer preferences

Experienced agents understand the types of questions and concerns that different buyers may have. Whether it’s focusing on local amenities for families or discussing property investment potential with landlords, agents can tailor their pitch based on the buyer’s needs, something that may be harder for sellers to do effectively.

Increased buyer comfort

Potential buyers are more likely to explore the home in greater detail when the seller is not present. When buyers feel at ease, they tend to spend more time during the viewing, asking more questions and visualising themselves in the space. This can create a stronger connection between the buyer and the property, increasing the chances of an offer.

Prompt feedback and follow-up

After a viewing, agents can provide immediate feedback from the potential buyer, which can be invaluable for making any necessary adjustments to your property or pricing strategy. Agents are also skilled in following up with interested parties, gently encouraging them towards making an offer, without appearing pushy.

Local market knowledge

Estate agents know the local property market inside and out. They can provide insights into local market trends, schools, transport links, and future developments that may sway a buyer's decision. 

Reduced stress

Selling a home can be stressful, especially when managing viewings alongside other responsibilities. By leaving viewings to your agent, you can reduce much of the day-to-day pressure and focus on preparing for your next move. Trusting your agent means you can step back, knowing that the sale process is being handled professionally.

What does one of the most eagerly anticipated budgets in years mean for the UK property market? We look at the positives and opportunities, whether you are a homemover, renter, or investor. 

Inheritance Tax 

The Inheritance tax threshold will be frozen at its current rate until 2030, meaning that the first £325,000 of an estate can be inherited tax-free, rising to £500,000.* If the estate includes a residence passed to direct descendants, this will rise to £500,000.*  

Capital Gains Tax 

The great news is that there will be no increase in Capital Gains Tax for second homeowners, despite fears of this happening before the budget. Further good news is CGT for residential properties will also remain unchanged.  

National insurance 

The increase in the minimum wage will relieve some financial pressure for those who are renting or buying for the first time. And the economic spin-offs for the wider economy will help create a better, more prosperous economy. 

Stamp Duty 

No increase in Stamp Duty if you are moving is welcome news. However, the Stamp Duty surcharge will increase immediately on second homes from 2% to 5%.* This could help to stabilise the market, as it favours those who are buying homes to live in. 

GOV.UK*