Knights - Barry Market Insight Magazine - Issue #1

Barry Island, Barry

EDITOR’S INTRODUCTION

KNIGHTS MARKET INSIGHT

At KNIGHTS we strongly believe in providing detailed and up-to-date market insights for the areas of South Wales we cover. This, when accompanied by our team’s passion and expertise, creates a supportive and honest environment which leads to the right outcome(s) for our clients.

We have collated these key statistics so you can gain an insight into what’s happening in your local area for both the sales and rental markets.

This issue will provide information that can help you make informed decisions on your next move in property, whether that be buying, selling, renting or letting - It may even make you reconsider the extension you’ve been contemplating!

In order to create our ‘market insight’ magazines we have partnered with Dataloft, a data-driven research consultancy, to provide us with cutting edge residential property statistics.

Dataloft use resources from the ONS and Land Registry to compile this data, updated every 4 weeks allowing us to have our fingers on the pulse when it comes to property transactions in all of the areas we cover. Most importantly, it empowers us to not only justify the values we set, but enable clients to see how the market is reacting.

These insights are being released online quarterly and will focus on the sales and lettings markets for all areas we cover. In addition our market insights also provide details on exclusive featured properties and expert commentaries on fields such as conveyancing, construction and finance.

We hope you find this information both informative and useful when considering your next move. Keep an eye on our web and social media platforms for when your area’s next issue is released!

Instagram: @knightsestateagents Facebook: Knights Property Sales Website: www.knights.uk.com

Carey Jones Founder

Carey Jones

AVERAGE SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS

£259,909

Source: Dataloft AVERAGE HOUSE RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £1,027PCM

AREAS WE COVER

KNIGHTS BARRY BRANCH

Barry

Barry is a seaside resort, with lovely beaches and the resurrected Barry Island Pleasure Park. According to the 2011 census, the population of Barry was 51,502, making it the fifth largest town in Wales.

Barry has had a huge amount of investment in recent years, including the development of the waterfront, a retail park and new neighbourhood of Barry featuring modern apartments and houses.

The Vale

Located immediately to the west of Cardiff between the M4 motorway and the Severn Estuary. The Vale of Glamorgan covers 33,097 hectares53km of which is on the coastline.

The largest centre of population is Barry followed by Dinas Powys and Llantwit Major. The mainly rural county includes other locations such as the Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Dyffryn Gardens, Ogmore Castle, Cosmeston Medieval Village, and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

Penarth

Penarth is a wealthy seaside resort and the second largest town in the Vale of Glamorgan. It is also where our latest branch is located and the majority of our branch staff live.

Houses in Penarth vary from three storey, red brick Victorian houses found Plymouth Rd & Westbourne Rd, to compact stone terraces in Cogan and upper Penarth. Many of these houses were originally large family homes with servants quarters on the top floors, which have now been adapted for multi-occupancy as flats and apartments, though some large houses still remain.

Postcode Areas:

CF62 5, CF62 6, CF62 7, CF62 8, CF62 9, CF63 1, CF63 2, CF63 3, CF63 4

Postcode Areas:

CF5 6, CF61 1, CF61 2, CF62 3, CF62 4, CF62 5, CF62 6, CF62 7, CF62 8, CF62 9, CF63 1, CF63 2, CF63 3, CF63 4,

Postcode Areas:

CF64 1, CF64 2, CF64 3

Sully

Sully is a village lying on the Northern coast of the Bristol Channel, midway between the towns of Penarth and Barry and 7 miles from the city of Cardiff. There is a beach, local shop, pharmacy and Post Office situated in the Village.

In 2010, the old site at Sully Hospital was converted to a luxury apartment complex, Hayes Point. Other properties in Sully tend to be larger houses and bungalows towards the beach side of South Road with many boasting fantastic views.

Dinas Powys

The centre of Dinas Powys still has a mostly unspoiled and almost rural feel, with a large common and a traditional village centre ‘The Square’, which includes a post office and a range of small independent shops, pubs and community facilities.

Late 19th century houses contribute to the historic character of the village. Beyond the village centre the streets are residential, primarily single dwelling houses of varying sizes. Britway Court in ‘The Square’, built on the site of a Victorian school, is now a block of apartments and some larger houses surrounding have been divided into flats.

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay is the coastal corner of Wales’ capital and only a short bus or train ride from the city centre; you can even walk between the two. Formerly a thriving tidal dockland, famous for exporting Welsh coal to the world, the area is now a vibrant waterfront surrounding the shore of a stunning freshwater lake.

If you’re wondering where to stay in the Cardiff Bay area, there are some really great properties that are popular with young professionals and buy to let investors.

Postcode Areas: CF64 5

Postcode Areas: CF64 4

Postcode Areas: CF10, CF10 5, CF11 0

BARRY STATISTICS

BASED ON SALES & RENTAL FIGURES FOR THE LAST 12 MONTHS

*Figures based on actual transactions in the last 12 months

Sales Values:

How many homes were sold? % of sales that were houses

Sam Draisey

change in the last 12 months Price change in the last 5 Years What’s the average price per square foot?

Lettings Values:

AVERAGE HOUSE RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £966PCM

Source: Dataloft

AVERAGE SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £208K

Barry Island Beach Huts, Barry Island

THE VALE STATISTICS

Sales Values:

How many homes were sold?

Lettings

Cassie Deans

AVERAGE SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £259,829

Source: Dataloft AVERAGE HOUSE RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £987 PCM

AVERAGE SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £464,284

AVERAGE HOUSE RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £1,249PCM

Source: Dataloft

Penarth Pier, Penarth

PENARTH STATISTICS

*Figures based on actual transactions in the last 12 months

Sales Values:

How many homes were sold?

of sales that were houses

change in the last 12 months

Jeff Hopkins

change in the last 5 Years What’s the average price per square foot?

Lettings Values:

AVERAGE SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £383,567

Source: Dataloft AVERAGE HOUSE RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £1,249PCM

Beach Swanbridge Bay, Sully

BASED ON SALES & RENTAL FIGURES FOR THE LAST 12 MONTHS

*Figures based on actual transactions in the last 12 months Chirag Rawal

Sales Values:

How many homes were sold? % of sales that were houses Price change in the last 12 months Price change in the last 5 Years What’s the average price per square foot?

Lettings Values:

How much do houses let for? How much do flats let for?

Month

FEATURED PROPERTY

KNIGHTS welcome you to this exquisite property located on Marine Drive in the charming town of Barry, offered for sale with NO CHAIN. This stunning house boasts three spacious reception rooms, perfect for entertaining guests or simply relaxing with your loved ones. With three cosy bedrooms, all with stunning sea views, and two bathrooms, this property offers comfort and convenience for the whole family.

One of the standout features of this house is its unique floorplan, adding character and charm to the living space. Imagine waking up to breathtaking sea views every morning, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere right in your own home.

Convenience is key with off road parking available, ensuring you never have to worry about finding a spot. Whether you’re a growing family or someone who loves to host gatherings, this property offers the perfect blend of space and functionality.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make this house your home and enjoy the best that coastal living has to offer. Contact us today to arrange a viewing and experience the beauty of Marine Drive for yourself.

Our area specialist Sam commented:

“At Knights we are privileged to handle the sale of many wonderful homes, but every now and then we are asked to sell something very special.

As you walk through the beautifully presented property, The view and location are what sets it apart.”

If you have something special to sell in Barry or in other surrounding areas, please contact Sam:

Telephone: 01446 700 222

Email: sales@knights.uk.com

Sam Draisey Sales Manager

Sam Draisey

PROVIDING 24/7 SUPPORT AND ACCESS TO ALL OUR CLIENTS by

WE PRIORITISE OUR CLIENT EXPERIENCE

Whether you’re a seller, landlord or tenant, PropertyFile gives our clients 24/7 access to any information they may need on their property all in one place.

Our outstanding lettings team were awarded back-to-back British Property Gold Awards for best letting agent in Cardiff (2021-22 & 2022-23).

POWYS STATISTICS

BASED ON SALES & RENTAL FIGURES FOR THE LAST 12 MONTHS

*Figures based on actual transactions in the last 12 months Sam Draisey

Sales Values:

How many homes were sold?

Lettings Values:

AVERAGE SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £376,217

AVERAGE HOUSE RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £945 PCM

Source: Dataloft

Cottages, Dinas Powys

AVERAGE FLAT RENT ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS £1,009 PCM

Source: Dataloft

HIGHEST SALES PRICE ACHIEVED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS

£194,757

The Pier Head, Cardiff Bay

CARDIFF BAY STATISTICS

BASED ON SALES & RENTAL FIGURES FOR THE LAST 12 MONTHS

*Figures based on actual transactions in the last 12 months Georgia Farr

Sales Values:

How many homes were sold? % of sales that were houses

Price change in the last 12 months

Price change in the last 5 Years

Change in the last 12 months

Lettings Values:

How much do houses let for?

£1,009 Per

What’s the average price per square foot?

How much do flats let for? Rental values have changed by Last 12 months

£1,057 Per

of tenants aged between 25 - 29

IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS WE’VE ACHIEVED 98.4%

OF OUR CLIENTS ORIGINAL ASKING PRICES

Source: Dataloft

SURVEYS & VALUATIONS

ACCURATE VALUATIONS & SURVEYS BACKED BY RICS

The Cardiff and South Wales market is currently booming and has seen unprecedented growth, within the last 5 years especially, due to out-of-town buyers.

Property is likely to be one of your most valuable assets, so it is essential that you understand what you’re buying and what it’s worth.

When a property is marketed at the right price it should only take a few weeks to sell, however some agents have a tendency to overvalue properties in order to secure your business. This can have a catastrophic effect, not only to your own sale time but to the overall property market.

Time is vital when selling a property. An overvalued property will not get the traction it deserves and this can also create the impression that something is wrong with the property if it remains on the market too long. Your agent will more than likely then ask you to reduce your price as a form of resolution.

Survey is a crucial stage of the selling/buying process. When a property falls through due to a down valuation the property may need to be re-marketed, and this means starting the selling process again.

In our experience, more properties fall through due to down valuation than any other issue. At Knights we utilise the same valuation research a surveyor does and do not tie our clients into lengthy contracts.

OFFERING EXPERTISE AND ADVICE

We offer a whole host of property valuation services and products, each best suited to a particular need.

We can advise on and conduct a wide range of RICSbacked valuations and surveys to ensure you have the best information available about your property.

Whether you are looking to mortgage or re-mortgage, need a valuation due to a land or matrimonial dispute or want to agree a fair value between tenant and landlord, we are here to help.

If you would like to arrange an accurate valuation, please contact our RICS Registered Valuer Lee on:

Telephone: 02920 370 100

Email: lee.bryce@seelandco.com

Lee Bryce BSc Assoc RICs & RICs Registered Valuer

Lee Bryce

FEATURED SALES PROPERTY

Knights Estate Agents are delighted to offer for sale this unique and individually architecturally designed family home, built in the mid 1960’s, situated on the desirable Highlight Lane in the North of Barry. Set on a generous plot with a well maintained and much loved rear garden, heated outdoor swimming pool and Horse Shoe shaped driveway providing off road parking for multiple vehicles leading to double garage.

Accommodation briefly comprising; Inner Porch. Entrance Hallway. Downstairs shower room. Downstairs bedroom. Two Reception Rooms. Open Plan Kitchen/Diner/Social Area. Three double bedrooms, en suite shower room and family bathroom to the first floor. The property benefits

from newly fitted gas central heating via combination boiler, UPVC double glazing throughout and new roof. EPC rating -: D

For more information about this property, please contact our area specialist Georgia on:

Telephone: 01446 700 222

Email: sales@knights.uk.com

FEATURED SALES PROPERTIES:

Y Cerigos, Barry, CF62 6YU

Glamorgan Street, Barry, CF62

Windsor Road, Barry, CF62

As investments go, historically property has been a strong and developing market. However it’s important to have a clear understanding on matters such as market value, legislation laws and licensing etc.

Through each collaboration, we share our expertise and resources, so you have all the information you need to make the best decision. Our aim is to build a trusted relationship with you so that, for every property transaction you make, we’ll be the first people you call.

WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Being a landlord is an exciting venture, but it is crucial that the right amount of time and attention is provided to ensure your success (and maximised profit).

At Knights we’ve guided numerous clients through the process, so if you’re looking for specialist advice then look no further. Our property experts would be delighted to chat through your position and give you as much support as you need throughout.

FEATURED RENTAL PROPERTY

An immaculately presented 9th floor apartment, that offers lovely balcony views over the Bay and Penarth. The apartment has been stylishly furnished and provides large living space with access onto the balcony. The living space is bright and airy from the amount of windows and door access to the balcony and offers tasteful and excellent quality furnishings.

The property further benefits from a modern-fitted kitchen with integrated appliances (including a dishwasher), three double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes in two of them and ensuite shower room to the master bedroom.

EPC Rating: C Tax Band: G

The property also offers allocated parking spaces, secure gated entrance and 24 hour concierge. An immaculate apartment with water rates included.

For more information about this property, please contact our area specialist Karen on:

Telephone: 01446 701 333

Email: lettings@knights.uk.com

Karen Snelson

FEATURED RENTAL PROPERTIES: FEATURED RENTAL PROPERTIES:

Heol Leubren, Barry, CF63

Hazel Grove, Dinas Powys, CF64

Flatholm House, Ferry Court, Cardiff, CF11

GROSVENOR MAY

STRAIGHTFORWARD FINANCIAL ADVICE TO MAKE YOU SMILE

At the moment many people are concerned about mortgage rates and the rising cost of living. Which has lead to many questioning whether to move home or renovate their current.

Having launched in July 2023, Grosvenor May are proud to offer customers a variety of services that are corroborate by our staffs’ 35+ years experience.

We’re able to save you time and money by searching the mortgage market to find the best deals that suit both your current circumstances and future priorities.

At Grosvenor May we offer a range of services including, but not limited to - Residential purchase, re-mortgage, product transfers, buy-to-let in personnel & limited company names, HMO, multi unit lets, let-to-buy, holiday lets, self build, new builds.

As an independent financial adviser we are able to search the whole of the market, meaning that we have access to over 115 different mortgage lenders. This ensures that we can support you with every application type and find the best options available for you.

HOUSING MARKET UPDATE:

Data collected from Halifax shows that the average house price is down to £279,569. Marking September 2023 as the fifth consecutive monthly decline, and the largest monthly fall since last November (according to the lender’s latest House Price Index).

Although property prices are falling its worth noting that the average price is still £40,000 or 17% above pre-pandemic levels.

FINANCIAL MARKET UPDATE

Recently the Bank of England voted to keep the base rate at 5.25%. Rates have been rising since late 2021 with 14 successive increases.

If you are seeking financial advice or would like more information on Grosvenor May, please contact:

Telephone: 029 2167 2480

Mobile: 07947 952 090

Email: becky.hughes@grosvenormay.co.uk

Website: www.grosvenormay.co.uk

Becky Hughes Mortgage Advisor

Becky Hughes

AVERAGE % OF LOTS SOLD WITHIN THE LAST 12 MONTHS 81.9%

TOTAL SALES FROM AUCTIONS IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS

244

SEEL & CO

AUCTIONEERS & PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS

At Seel&Co we pride ourselves on being record breakers, money makers and friendly property people. Looking for auctioneers, surveyors and block management with a difference? Look no further. We’re the best in South Wales.

Established in 1898, we are one of the largest independent property specialists, estate agents and chartered surveyors in Cardiff and South Wales.

Our family run business is built on traditional values delivered with a modern approach and great service.

Whether you are a seller or buyer, renting or a landlord, leasehold owner or management company we offer all the advice and services you could need under one roof.

WE LIKE TO SHAKE THINGS UP

Even though we have our modern values, we stop at nothing to make the world of property that little bit different. We are keen to challenge the status quo when it comes to auctions, lettings and more.

Acquired by the JeffreyRoss Group in 2019, the company has gone through significant changes to become one of the most experienced and forward thinking property firms in the UK.

Seel & Co Ltd is a member of and regulated by RICS and is governed by its professional code of conduct and strict rules on handling Client monies. They are also authorised and regulated by the FCA and can arrange general insurances for Clients at very competitive rates.

For more information about any of the professional services Seel & Co provide, please contact:

Telephone: 029 2037 0117

Email: auctions@seelandco.com

Website: www.seelandco.com

Huw Edwards Head of Auctions & Auctioneer

Huw Edwards

BLOCK & ESTATE MANAGEMENT

PROPERTY BLOCK MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Seel & Co Ltd is a long established family firm of Chartered Surveyors providing bespoke Apartment Block Management and Estate Management services to our clients using a dedicated team of professionals.

Using specialist software geared to the management of service charge accounts we work with you to ensure that all your responsibilities under your Lease and Statutory Legislation are properly met.

We provide a personal, efficient and comprehensive service to our clients and it is the quality of that service that is one of the most important criteria for us to achieve.

ASK US ANYTHING

Excellent communication, careful selection of service providers and regular monitoring of your property ensures a high-quality of service and value for money, as well as allowing us to understand any specific needs your property may have.

Providing expert advice regarding future budgeting, planning maintenance projects and providing adequate levels of reserves for a site are essential aspects of estate or block management.

Strictly governed by both the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, ARMA and the Financial Conduct Authority, all client money is held under the Clients Protection Scheme and accounted for daily.

MANAGEMENT FEES

Our fee for administering the management of a block of flats would vary with the complexity of the site and number of units to be managed.

Please be advised that some services fall outside day-today management of the site and may incur additional charges as and when necessary and in agreement with the Client. Any additional charges may be negotiable.

Contact us for a bespoke management fee, tailored to your property and needs.

Telephone: 029 2037 0100

Email: karl.reid@seelandco.com

Website: www.seelandco.com/block-management/

Karl Reid Associate Director

Karl Reid

WE MANAGE OVER 100 DEVELOPMENTS

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW BUILD?

CHECK OUT OUR FULL LIST OF PROPERTIES ON OUR WEBSITE:

The Moorwell, Windsor Road, Penarth

NEW DEVELOPMENT

THE MOORWELL, WINDSOR ROAD, PENARTH, CF64 1JL

Knights are proud to bring to the market The Moorwell, a selection of 12 unique and executive apartments located in one of Cardiff’s most popular destinations. Built in the 1920s, the Art Deco building has been a recognisable Penarth landmark ever since and a key feature of the town.

The apartments have been carefully consider to ensure that all have access to communal or their own outside space as well as secure underground Parking and lift access to the upper floors. This executive development is made up of 4 different apartment types, but all have their own unique attributes.

The Moorwell is a modern build, keeping the Art Deco character of the original building and incorporating the theme subtly throughout the design. Internally, the apartments and duplexes provide luxurious, yet practical layouts with personal and communal outside space as well as secure underground car parking and lift access to the upper floors.

All apartments have access to the Courtyard / Yoga lawn. The property is offered to the market with no ongoing chain and would make a great place to live or investment given the rental potential they offer on both long and short terms lets.

PRICES FROM £365,000 - £415,000

Viewings are strictly by appointment only. If you would to view or reserve a property in this stunning development, please contact the Knights team on the below contact details.

For more information about the The Moorwell development, please register your interest:

Telephone: 01446 700 222

Email: sales@knights.uk.com Website: www.themoorwell.com

Sarah Bunting Head of Sales

Sarah Bunting

DESG

BESPOKE SERVICED OFFICES, HOT DESKING & EVENT HIRE

Desg™ is Cardiff’s award-winning co-working space and private office community. We offer a stylish, balanced and mindful environment where companies and individuals can work, meet, and collaborate.

Our Pontcanna building is lined with picture windows providing a beautiful view out to Llandaff Fields, connecting you with one of Cardiff’s most expansive green spaces for easy screen breaks & strolls. Just a few steps away you’ll also find many of Pontcanna’s popular cafes, deli’s, pubs & restaurants.

Our private offices range in size from 2 – 20+ persons (up to 2,500sq ft plus breakout spaces) and benefit from 24hr access in addition to the in-house gym, showers, members lounge & car parking.

We pride ourselves on creating a collaborative and supportive community that often holds breakfast clubs, live event screenings, showcases and events in our members lounge for all tenants and members.

You are welcome to walk-in and arrange your hot desk once you arrive, however we cannot guarantee availability in this case.

Walk-ins still need to complete the same process as seen online so we recommend you do this before you come and save yourself some time.

BECOMING A DESG MEMBER

If you choose to become a registered member of Desg, your account will be credited with “Desg coins”. The coins are automatically used at checkout when you book your unlimited hot-desks throughout the month.

To book a space, scan the QR code below, or contact a member of staff on;

Telephone: 029 2037 0129

Email: info@desg.co.uk

Website: www.desg.co.uk

Lou Quinn Desg Concierge

Lou Quinn

Desg, Penhill Road, Pontcanna

SOLICITOR INSIGHTS

THE LATEST ON CARDIFF’S PROPERTY MARKET

The Cardiff property market has seen some remarkable changes since the beginning of 2023, despite the challenges posed by the economic downturn and the fluctuating interest rates.

Our multi award winning conveyancing department here at Howells Solicitors has been closely monitoring the trends and developments in the local area (and further afield) and is pleased to share its insights and analysis with Jeffrey Ross Estate Agents, a long-standing and valued partner of Howells.

According to the latest data from the Land Registry, the average house price in Cardiff has decreased by 2.3% in the first half of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. This is slightly lower than the national average of 2.7% and reflects the resilience and attractiveness of the Welsh capital as a place to live and invest. The decrease in house prices has also created some opportunities for firsttime buyers and investors, who can benefit from lower mortgage rates and more affordable properties.

The Cardiff property market, however is not without its challenges. The economic uncertainty and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic have affected the demand and supply of properties, as well as the confidence and expectations of buyers and sellers. The conveyancing process has also become more complex and timeconsuming due in particular to the increased scrutiny and regulation of mortgage lenders. Despite the negativity in the media, we are confident that the market will bounce back sooner rather than later and month on month we are seeing an increase in clients instructing us to act for them in their property sale and purchase transactions.

That is why it is essential to have a trusted and experienced conveyancing partner, who can guide you through every step of your property transaction, from offer to completion. Howells Solicitors has been providing expert conveyancing services in Cardiff for over 25 years and has won multiple awards for its excellence and innovation. Whether you are buying or selling a property, Howells Solicitors can offer you a fast, efficient and hassle-free service, with fixed fees and no hidden costs.

Howells Solicitors is proud to work with Jeffrey Ross Estate Agents, one of the leading estate agents in Cardiff, who share our commitment to quality, professionalism and customer satisfaction. Together, we can help you achieve your property goals in Cardiff. whatever the market conditions. Contact us today for a free quote or a noobligation chat about your conveyancing needs.

Mick Fallon Director / Solicitor

Mick Fallon

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

WHAT’S THE CURRENT STATE OF BUILDING COSTS?

It is generally accepted across the Construction market that the cost of materials have now increased by some 25-30% since last summer, with some key construction materials (concrete, steel and timber) increasing by more than 50%. This incredible acceleration in material costs has not been seen for some 40 years in the UK market and is putting severe pressure on an already fragile sector.

This may lead to you wondering whether undertaking home improvements is the best of ideas, or whether moving is the better option? I’ll leave far more qualified individuals to advise on the housing market, but from a construction point of view it is fair to say that the market is definitely in a challenging place and waiting 6 to 12 months may well see the market in a far more settled position.

That being said, if getting works undertaken on your house cannot wait, there are a number of things you can do to try and ensure that your dream extension doesn’t run away in cost, leaving you with a bitter taste. Our advice would be;

PLAN - Take time to Plan and Design the works before you start; Its an old adage but “failing to plan is planning to fail”. Ensure that you have agreed on all aspects of the build, from the exact size of the project, the location of key services (bathrooms etc.), right down to the proposed finishes and number of plug sockets! The fastest way to blow a construction budget is to start making changes during the project.

SHOP AROUND - Ensure that the builder you are going to use is reputable and gives you the confidence that they can deliver what you want. Undertaking work in your house is a deeply personal thing, so you need to ensure that whoever you are entrusting to carry out the works gives you the confidence that they are the right ‘fit’. Simple things are to ask for references, check out their social media, ask if they have any affiliations (FMB etc.)

THE CONTRACT - If the builder tells you not to worry about a contract then I would walk away there and then! Having an agreed starting point (both in reference to works and cost) is essential to avoid costly disputes and fallings out. It doesn’t need to be war and peace, but referencing the agreed drawings, the contractors schedule of works and the price is a minimum. Ensure that you agree who is going to be responsible for planning / building control sign off / gaining relevant details and calculations from the Engineer / Architect.

CONTROL - During the build ensure that you keep an eye on progress, and ask for programmes and input into decisions regarding the location of key items. If the contractor is well organised they should be able to provide this level of information easily. This also relates to the money. Don’t pay up front and ensure that you don’t pay 100% of the cost until you are happy all the works are completed to your desired level of satisfaction.

So whether your looking at a simple extension, or planning the next annex of your property the above is as good a starting point as any.

Ben Smith Chief Executive

Ben Smith

CLIENT EXPERIENCE

WHY CHOOSE KNIGHTS TO HELP SELL OR LET YOUR PROPERTY

OUR AREA SPECIALISTS

Knights’ success has been built on providing an environment which attracts the best area specialists in our locations. In an economy that is powered by knowledge, having access to the right people and the right expertise has been imperative for us.

Estate agency is a specialist craft. It takes time and patience to hone the skills needed to understand the true value of property - and to fully understand the needs of buyers and sellers alike.

Max Dixon - Client Testimonial:

“As a landlord the team at Knights are always happy to sort any issues on our behalf. Our tenants had a central heating boiler issue and within two hours Knights’ central heating contractor had gone out and fixed the leaking boiler.

The maintenance team are really lovely and I can strongly recommend their services after trusting them with my property management for over 3 years, and hopefully many more”

MARKETING EXPERTISE

At Knights we provide an extensive range of marketing services that help distinguish our client properties when listed for sale or rent.

Our in-house marketing experts constantly analyse the latest data & trends and re-purpose the high quality videography and photography to advertise our client’s properties in a variety of ways.

We are also one of the few agencies that offer advertising across portals such as On the Market and Rightmove, as well as our own website.

PROPERTYFILE

PropertyFile is our in-house software, designed to aid both our tenants and landlords throughout their property tenancies.

The system enables clients to access important documents & information, such as key tenancy dates and invoices. The system also keeps track of your income and expenditure by viewing your statements and invoices online - This is also highly beneficial for landlords when calculating their tax return.

For tenants PropertyFile’s dashboards allows you to report any issues you may have and will provide updates on it’s progression and resolution.

If you would like to discuss the Knights client experience further, or have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team on:

Telephone: 01446 700 222

Email: sales@knights.uk.com

Instagram: @knightsestateagents

Elliott Hooper-Nash Director

Elliott Hooper-Nash

For mortgage enquiries, scan the QR code below.

ABOUT US

At Grosvenor May we provide tailored advice for all mortgage & protection needs. Our team make sure they understand customer priorities and circumstances before making tailored recommendations to meet their mortgage and protection needs. With over 35 years experience in financial services, you'll be in safe hands with Grosvenor May.

WHAT WE OFFER

Mortgages - First Time Buyer, Remortgage, Buy To Let, Moving Home, Product Transfer, New Deal, Lifetime Mortgage Advice & more.

Insurance & Protection - Critical Illness Cover, Family Life Insurance, Income Protection, Home Insurance, Mortgage Life Insurance & more.

To receive tailored mortgage and protection advice, get in touch with our trusted team. CONTACT US

Telephone - 02921 672480

Mobile - 07301 203121

Email - info@grosvenormay.co.uk

Website - www.grosvenormay.co.uk