Here are a few reasons why this season could be the ideal time to sell your home.
QUESTIONS SELLERS SHOULD ASK THEIR ESTATE AGENT
Key questions to ask your estate agent before choosing to work with them.
SIGNS YOU SHOULD MOVE TO A BIGGER HOME
Is it time to upsize? Key signs you should move to a bigger home.
Hello, and welcome to another issue of our Gateway magazine. Last month’s issue was one of our most viewed in recent times - I’d like to thank you for all your comments, views, and shares.
At Fisks, we’re often asked, “What matters most to buyers and sellers?” While market knowledge and negotiation skills are crucial, trust is at the core of everything we do. We understand that buying your first home or selling a valued property is a significant financial step, and we take that responsibility seriously. If you’re thinking about making a move, now is a great time to buy or sell with Fisks.
I hope you enjoy this issue of Gateway. If any of the properties featured this month catch your eye, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director
Here are a few reasons why this season could be the ideal time to sell your home.
The autumn season is an excellent time to sell your property. However, it comes with its own unique challenges and considerations. To help you maximise your home’s appeal and achieve a successful sale, here are some key tips for selling during this period.
Autumn is one of the most visually appealing seasons, and you can use this to your advantage. Showcase the beauty of the season by enhancing your home’s exterior with seasonal decorations. Simple touches like a tasteful autumn wreath, potted plants with autumnal colours, or even a pumpkin display can make your home feel warm and welcoming. Don’t go overboard, though – subtlety is key.
Tip: Keep paths and driveways clear of fallen leaves. While they can be picturesque, too many leaves can make the area look untidy or slippery.
As the days grow shorter, natural light becomes a precious commodity. Make sure to open curtains and blinds to let in as much daylight as possible during viewings. Consider cleaning windows to enhance brightness and remove any obstructions such as heavy drapes that block light.
Tip: Add additional light sources inside your home, such as table lamps and warm-toned bulbs, to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere during darker evenings.
Autumn is synonymous with warmth and cosiness. Create an environment that potential buyers can see themselves relaxing in. If you have a fireplace, now is the time to light it during viewings or photoshoots. Soft furnishings like throws and cushions in warm, earthy tones can enhance this feeling, while scented candles or diffusers with autumn scents like cinnamon or vanilla can add a welcoming touch.
Tip: Ensure your home is warm during viewings. A chilly house can put off buyers and leave a negative impression.
Although your garden may not be in full bloom in autumn, it still plays an important role in creating a good first impression. Rake fallen leaves, trim hedges, and cut the grass if needed. Consider planting seasonal flowers such as chrysanthemums or asters to add a pop of colour.
Tip: Keep garden furniture clean and stored neatly if not in use, as an untidy garden can give the impression that the home hasn’t been well cared for.
With the changing weather, it’s important to ensure the exterior of your home looks its best. Clean your gutters, touch up any peeling paint, and ensure exterior lighting is in working order. A well-maintained exterior sets the tone for the rest of the viewing.
Tip: As the days get shorter, ensure outdoor lights are on during evening viewings to highlight key features of the property and enhance security.
Photos are the first thing most potential buyers will see, so make sure your property looks its best for the season. Arrange for professional photography to capture your home at its most appealing. If you can, schedule photoshoots during the golden hours of the day, when natural light is soft and flattering.
Tip: Avoid seasonal decorations in your listing photos, such as Halloween décor, as these may date your listing or put off some buyers.
It’s important to set a realistic price for your property. Research similar homes in your area and carefully consider the advice your estate agent provides regarding valuation. A competitively priced property can attract more interest and help you sell more quickly.
Tip: Be open to negotiation but set a minimum price you’re comfortable with, especially if you’re looking for a quicker sale before the end of the year.
As daylight hours shorten and people’s schedules change, be flexible with viewing times. Some buyers may only be available for evening or weekend viewings, so offering a range of times will increase your chances of securing a sale.
Tip: Ensure your home is always ready for a last-minute viewing by keeping it tidy and organised.
With the cooler weather in autumn, buyers are more likely to focus on the cost of heating and energy efficiency. Highlight any energy-efficient features of your home, such as double-glazed windows, insulation, or a new boiler. If you’ve had an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessment, mention the rating in your listing.
Tip: Consider small upgrades, such as draught excluders or energy-efficient bulbs, to give your home an eco-friendly boost.
Choosing an estate agent who understands the nuances of selling in the autumn can make a significant difference. They’ll be able to offer insights on how to market your home during this time and ensure that it stands out from other properties on the market.
Tip: When Fisks talk to you about marketing your home, we will always consider the season when discussing the best way to present your home. Feel free to reach out to us for a free no obligation consultation.
Director
Harriet Plampton Sales & Lettings Consultant
We cover the whole of South Essex.
Contact us for a free valuation on 01268 565555
The residential estate agency market is increasingly populated by large corporations; nevertheless, our independent family-run estate agency continues to succeed and grow a loyal client base, due to our core values, ethos and flexible approach to clients’ requirements.
Fisks Ltd
146 London Road
Benfleet
Essex
SS7 5SQ
Fisks Ltd
85 Furtherwick Road
Canvey Island
Essex
SS8 7AY
£525,000
Detached Four Bedroom House
No Onward Chain
Extended
Large Rear Garden
Driveway
Fantastic Access To Main Roads
Potential To Extend Further STPP
CALL 01268 565555
LAMBETH COURT, BENFLEET
Two Bedroom Apartment
Second Floor
Balcony
En-suite To Master Bedroom
Open Plan Living
Perfect For Investors Or First Time Buyers
£230,000 CALL 01268 565555
£500,000
Guide Price £500,000 - £515,000
Four/Five Bedroom Semi Detached Chalet
Beautiful South Facing Rear Garden
En-Suite To Master Bedroom
Immaculate Condition Throughout Log Burner
CALL 01268 565555
£300,000
No Onward Chain
Semi-detached bungalow on Stanley Road, Benfleet
Spacious lounge/diner ideal for relaxation and entertaining
Two bedrooms with mirrored wardrobes in the master
Practical kitchen
CALL 01268 565555
£375,000
Three Bedroom Semi-Detached Home
Ideal Family Home
Spacious Living Space
Well-Appointed Kitchen
Great Location
Parking and Eco-Friendly Features
CALL 01268 565555
GIFFORD ROAD, BENFLEET
No Onward Chain
Three Bedroom Semi-detached
Spacious Living
Modern Kitchen
Family-friendly Schools
Dining Room
Four-piece Bathroom
£375,000 CALL
Key questions to ask your estate agent before choosing to work with them.
When selling your home, choosing the right estate agent is crucial to ensuring a smooth and successful process. To find the best agent for your needs, you should ask the right questions to get a clear understanding of their expertise, approach, and services. Here are the top questions sellers should ask their estate agent before making a decision.
Local knowledge is invaluable when it comes to selling a home. An estate agent with experience in your area will have a better understanding of local market trends, the types of buyers looking for homes in the neighbourhood, and what similar properties have sold for recently.
Why this matters:
• An agent familiar with your area can price your property accurately.
• They may already have a list of potential buyers interested in homes like yours.
Understanding how an estate agent values your home is crucial. The asking price will directly impact how many viewings you get and how quickly your home sells. Ask the agent to explain their valuation process and whether it’s based on recent sales, market trends, or other factors.
Why this matters:
• Overpricing can lead to a property sitting on the market for too long.
• Underpricing could mean losing out on the best possible offer.
A good estate agent should have a clear plan for marketing your home. Ask how they plan to promote your property to potential buyers, whether they use online listings, social media, or traditional methods like print ads.
Why this matters:
• A robust marketing strategy will help attract a larger pool of buyers.
• Professional photos, virtual tours, and online listings can make a huge difference in how your property is perceived.
Estate agent fees can vary, and it’s important to know what you’re paying for. Ask for a breakdown of their fees, whether it’s a fixed rate or a percentage of the sale, and what services are included in the price. The type of agency should be discussed together with the notice period and length of contract. As this is a legal document and can be enforced.
Why this matters:
• Understanding the fee structure helps you budget for the sale.
• Knowing what services are included ensures there are no hidden costs later on.
HOW LONG DO YOU EXPECT IT TO TAKE TO SELL MY PROPERTY?
While no agent can guarantee a sale within a specific timeframe, experienced agents should be able to provide an estimate based on market conditions and similar properties in your area.
Why this matters:
• Setting realistic expectations helps you plan your next steps, especially if you need to move by a certain date.
• A property that remains unsold for too long can lose appeal to buyers.
Communication is key during the home-selling process. Ask the agent how often they will update you and whether they prefer phone, email, or in-person meetings to keep you informed about offers, feedback from viewings, and any changes in the market.
Why this matters:
• Regular communication ensures you stay informed about the progress of your sale.
• A proactive agent will keep you in the loop and offer timely advice.
This is a great way to gauge the agent’s confidence and learn about their unique selling points. Whether it’s years of experience, innovative marketing techniques, or a strong local network, understanding what makes them different can help you decide if they’re the right fit.
Why this matters:
• You want an agent who will go above and beyond to sell your property.
• Their answer can give insight into their professional approach and commitment.
A knowledgeable estate agent should be able to provide advice on how to present your home in the best possible light. This could include home staging tips, minor repairs, or cleaning suggestions to make your property more appealing to buyers.
Why this matters:
• A well-prepared home can increase interest and lead to a quicker sale.
• Staging and presentation play a huge role in the perceived value of your property.
Ask about the agent’s process for handling offers and how they will negotiate on your behalf. It’s important to know if they will communicate all offers to you, whether they’ll advise on whether to accept, reject, or counteroffer, and how they’ll ensure you get the best deal.
Why this matters:
• You need an agent who will negotiate effectively on your behalf.
• Their negotiation skills can directly impact the final sale price.
The industry has changed hugely with the development of digital technology - this has created two different styles of agency, the traditional high street agency, and the modern online agency. At Fisks, we believe that the best solution is to be both.
Fisks still do the traditional marketing methods that you are comfortable with, such as high street shop locations with window displays, applicant mailing lists, text and email facilities, linked offices, portals such as Rightmove, leaflet drops, floor plans, boards and branded cars.
These marketing tools have been tried and tested for many years, but with the ongoing digital revolution we have also embraced change. These new marketing methods come in the form of a digital property lifestyle magazine that’s produced in house and emailed to over eight thousand people a month, targeted social media campaigns across all the major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, 4k video tours of your property for our successful YouTube channel, enhanced portal marketing, and from a customer service point of view, we have vendor log-ins so you can see viewers feedback and offers on your home at any time.
Our Ethos & Values
We focus on our clients’ requirements and instructions rather than just doing what’s quickest and easiest for us.
Our comprehensive training program ensures that our staff channels their entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm for the benefit of our clients, whilst maintaining the professionalism and customer service associated with our brand.
Fisks,
FISKS.CO.UK
Protecting your investment should not be taken lightly, with our full management service you can be sure to get the support you deserve...
ARLA - the gold standard professional industry body.
Audited and insured client accounts to protect your money.
Rent guarantee and legal cover - protect yourself with insurance and the increased costs of evicting (subject to status).
Legal hotline - specialised property lawyers helping to answer your questions.
Inventories - protect your deposit with a professional inventory, including time stamped photographs.
Inspection - allay your fears that your asset is being looked after.
Section notices - fully trained and experienced staff can advise and serve the appropriate notice.
Accurate accounting - from monthly statements to overseas landlords, to expenditure and income, we hold all the information the accountant will need.
Gas certificates and EPCs - keep your property complying with the law.
Don’t just take our word for it, we have many happy customers...
“Happy customer. Very professional service. We had no problems with the sale of our house or the purchase of our new home through Fisks. Staff very pleasant, would definitely recommend.”
- Mr and Mrs Hall
“Fantastic team that pulled out all the stops and helped every step of the way. Friendly pleasant staff.”
- Mrs S Sheavyn
... come and put us to the test!
The right upgrades can boost your home’s value and attract more buyers.
Deciding whether it’s time to upsize your home is a big decision. Many homeowners outgrow their current space over time, but the question of when to move can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s the need for more room, a change in lifestyle, or simply a desire for a better quality of life, upsizing could be the next step. Here’s how to tell if it’s time for you to move to a bigger home.
One of the most common reasons for upsizing is a growing family. Whether you’re expecting a child, your children are getting older and need their own rooms, or you’re planning to take care of elderly relatives, space can quickly become an issue.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• You’ve run out of bedrooms or storage space.
• The kids are sharing rooms and it’s leading to conflict.
• You’re constantly juggling space for family and visitors.
• A larger home with more bedrooms or flexible living spaces can provide everyone with the privacy they need and create a more comfortable living environment.
As remote work becomes more common, many people are finding that they need a dedicated office space. If you’re currently working from the kitchen table or squeezing a desk into a corner, upsizing could provide you with a quiet and productive home office.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• Your work-from-home setup is cramped or located in a high-traffic area of the house.
• You’re struggling to separate work life from home life due to lack of space.
• The noise and activity of the household make it difficult to focus.
• A bigger home with an extra room that can be turned into a home office can greatly improve your productivity and work-life balance.
If you love hosting family gatherings, parties, or dinners but feel your current home can’t accommodate guests comfortably, it might be time to upsize. A home with a larger living room, open-plan kitchen, or outdoor entertaining space can make hosting easier and more enjoyable.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• You find it difficult to entertain guests due to limited space.
• Your dining area or living room feels cramped when you have visitors.
• You’ve outgrown your outdoor space and wish you had room for a garden or patio.
• Upsizing can allow you to have the space you need to entertain guests without feeling overcrowded.
Sometimes, a house simply starts to feel too small, especially if your belongings, hobbies, or lifestyle have evolved over the years. If every closet is overflowing, your garage is packed to the ceiling, or you’ve outgrown your kitchen or living space, it could be time to move to a larger property.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• Storage is always an issue, no matter how much you declutter.
• You feel like you’re constantly tripping over things or rearranging furniture.
• You’re having to rent storage space because your home can’t accommodate everything.
• A larger home with additional storage solutions or more spacious rooms can give you the breathing room you need.
Upsizing requires a larger financial commitment, so it’s important to assess whether you’re in a strong financial position. If you’ve built up equity in your current home, experienced a rise in income, or paid off debt, you may be in a good position to take on the cost of a bigger house.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• Your income has increased, and you can afford a higher mortgage or the costs associated with a larger home.
• You’ve saved up enough for a larger deposit.
• You’ve assessed the costs of moving, including moving expenses, higher utility bills, and property taxes, and feel confident in your financial stability.
• Make sure to consult with a financial advisor or mortgage broker to get a clear understanding of your financial readiness before making a decision.
Sometimes, upsizing is less about necessity and more about improving your overall quality of life. You may want a larger garden, more luxurious amenities, or a home in a better neighbourhood. If your current home no longer suits your lifestyle or long-term goals, it could be time to move to a larger, more suitable property.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• You’ve outgrown your current neighbourhood or want to move to a more desirable area.
• You’re seeking a home with features like a swimming pool, home gym, or larger outdoor space.
• You’re thinking about long-term comfort and want a home that you can grow into for years to come.
• Upsizing can be a great way to achieve the lifestyle you’ve always wanted.
Even if you don’t need extra space right now, you may want to upsize with the future in mind. Whether you’re thinking about starting a family, planning for long-term visitors, or creating more space for hobbies or home-based activities, moving to a larger home can give you room to grow.
Signs it’s time to upsize:
• You’re thinking about expanding your family in the near future.
• You’re preparing for long-term changes, such as having adult children return home or welcoming extended family.
• You anticipate needing more space for home hobbies or projects.
• Planning ahead can save you the hassle of moving again in a few years and allow you to settle into a home that accommodates your future needs.
£349,999
Three Bedroom House
Four Piece Bathroom
Garage
Off Street Parking
Large Kitchen/Diner
Well Looked After Throughou
Tclose To Local Ammenities
CALL 01268 510510
£230,000
Kings Park Retirement Village
Well Looked After Throughout
46ft Long
Ensuite To Master
Ample Storage
Seperate Dining Room
Utility Room
£290,000
2 BEDROOM BUNGALOW
SEMI DETACHED
PRIME LOCATION
LARGE OPEN LOUNGE
OFF STREET PARKING
NO ONWARD CHAIN
TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS
CALL 01268 510510
MAURICE ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND
£360,000
Three Bedroom Detached House
Lounge/Diner
Garage
Off Street Parking
Three Double Bedrooms
W/C
No Onward Chain
£415,000
Three Bedroom Family Home
Seperate Dining Room
Utility Area
Immaculate Throughout
Ground Floor Bathroom
En-Suite To Master
Large Entrance Hall
CALL 01268 510510
£595,000
Large Detached Family Home
Four Double Bedrooms
Ensuite To Master
Newly Fitted Bathroom, W/C, & Ensuite
Lounge Onto Conservatory
Seperate Dining Room
Potential 6 Bed
CALL 01268 510510
