Welcome to your monthly property update!

Welcome to your monthly property update!




Castlereagh Road, Seaham, SR7

This architect designed four bedroom home occupies a large end of row plot. Recently refurbished and modernised, this home has the wow factor! Internally the...
 

£2,000 PCM


Click here to read Castlereagh Road, Seaham, SR7.



The Village, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this ready to move into farmhouse style property in the highly regarded and sought after residential area of Seaton, Seaham. 
 

£925 PCM


Click here to read The Village, Seaham, SR7.



Byron Terrace,Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this immaculate and ready to move into 3 bedroom terraced...
 
£695 PCM

Click here to read Byron Terrace,Seaham, SR7.



Embleton Mews, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are now taking details of people who would like to view this refurbished, 3 bedroom...
 
£625 PCM

Click here to read Embleton Mews, Seaham, SR7.



Station Road, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings present this 3 bedroom end terrace property in the ever popular town of Seaham. The property is currently being...
 
£695pcm

Click here to read Station Road, Seaham, SR7.



Swallow Street, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this 3 bedroom terraced property in the ever popular town of Seaham. Available on...
 
£675pcm

Click here to read Swallow Street, Seaham, SR7.



Haunted House Halloween WalkthroughThu Oct 26 2023 at 12:00 pm to 04:00 pm

Come down to our haunted house for some spooky Halloween fun...

Click here to read Haunted House Halloween WalkthroughThu Oct 26 2023 at 12:00 pm to 04:00 pm.



Tenants, here are some money-saving tips for you

 
 


Finding a great home can save you money as well as make you feel happy and content. It’s so much easier to enjoy nights in and almost every other aspect of your life in a snug, well decorated, and energy-efficient home. You just feel better from the moment you wake up, and that feeling stays with you throughout the day. As the nights draw in and as the cold becomes more severe, you can’t be blamed for feeling a little apprehensive when it comes to managing your bills through the winter months. And with Christmas approaching, you don’t want to feel the pinch too much, so here are a few things you can do that may help you relax.

Stay snug
There are lots of little things you can do that, when combined, will make a big difference while keeping you warm and saving you some money. And choosing a well-insulated home in the first place means you are well on your way.
  • Turn down the heating thermostat or turn the heat off at night.
  • Make good use of quality curtains or blinds to stop heat from escaping through the windows. Open them fully during the day to trap the sunlight.
  • Block any drafts using a draft excluder or door snakes- some are very pretty!
  • Move your sofa if it's blocking your radiator.
  • Turn off any radiators you don’t need.
  • Invest in a nice throw and curl up on those colder nights.
Food
The price of food has shot up, and this is one of the biggest expenses for most households. The old saying that you are what you eat still rings true. It’s all about quality. TikTok and food blogs have thousands of recipes that will keep you healthy and save you money. Batch cook; that way, you have prepared meals for a few days and used less energy. Timing is key when it comes to finding bargains in the supermarket or hunting for discounts online. Having less takeaways and more home cooking saves a lot of money. For example, have you ever made fresh pizza? They can cost less than a couple of quid to make and taste amazing! In addition, planning is a top tip, a simple list on your phone that you can add to throughout the day in the form of ingredients will stop you from impulse-buying expensive processed meals. This means meal preparation takes less work as you are prepared. A home with a good kitchen always helps the cause.

Budget
Create a budget for everything from heating bills to entertainment. Even if you are not a lover of a good list, it will make you stick to a predetermined budget if it’s written down. If you only have a small amount left over for entertainment, then think of something that does not blow the budget. Maybe it’s time to invite friends around? It’s often useful to shop around for everything, from insurance to energy suppliers.

Your energy bills
Did you know that if you pay your energy bills as a tenant, you can choose which supplier you can use? Thankfully, energy bills are reducing at long last. Using a cost-effective energy supplier combined with energy-efficient appliances in a well-maintained property with an already good EPC rating can all add up to significant savings.

The right agent can lead you to the right home
If you are relaxed in the place you call home, then everything is easier. Finding the best property for you that makes you feel settled so that you can sleep well, enjoy having friends around, and make use of a good garden all add to your well-being. These things make it easier to implement money-saving strategies and lead to a healthier, more cost-efficient lifestyle. Opting for a fully managed property means you will be taken care of completely. From viewing, tenancy agreements to your home’s maintenance. It’s little wonder more and more people are choosing to rent.

Insurance
Make sure you are insured. Having good contents insurance will protect your precious belongings. The last thing you need is to fork out thousands if you accidentally damage your property.

Are you looking for a better life? Then find a better home with us. Contact us



Lettings agents have never been more important to landlords and tenants



 


Nothing is quite as simple as it used to be, and whether you are renting your home or letting it, the guidance of a seasoned letting agent is a must-have. There is new legislation, such as the Renters Reform Bill, and the complexities of a competitive market. Add to these greater, greener government demands and simply finding a great place to rent that is maintained properly, and you realise the importance of a good letting agent.

The Renters Reform Bill

What is the Renters Reform Bill? The Renters Reform Bill was introduced to Parliament for its first reading on May 17, 2023. Its aim is to improve life for 11 million renters and 2.3 million landlords in the UK, and it is based on five years of research conducted with landlord and tenant groups.* Here are some of its proposals:
  • the removal of Section 21
  • improved grounds for possession under Section 8
  • the change from assured shorthold tenancies to periodic
  • the creation of a property ombudsman
Has the Renters Reform Bill been passed?
Not yet. It’s at a very early stage of a long journey through parliament. The earliest date it may be passed is probably the first quarter of 2024. Then it will take at least 6 months before it comes into force for new tenancies, and 18 months for existing tenancies.

What does it mean for tenants?
Tenants can feel more secure with the proposed abolishment of Section 21. Protecting tenants from unfair evictions creates a more homely feeling and gives tenants real peace of mind. Renters will also be able to challenge landlords when it comes to providing good-quality homes. It's good news for your pets too, who will also have more rights than ever before.

What does it mean for landlords?
Section 8 will be strengthened, which allows landlords to end tenancy agreements early if they have good reason to do so. Despite the fears some have expressed about abolishing Section 21 - ‘no fault’ evictions, the reality is that it will make it easier for landlords to evict tenants for anti-social behaviour and repeated missed rent payments. While blanket bans on pets have also been proposed, with the new legislation in place, landlords can insist on their tenants' pets having pet insurance, certificates, and, in the case of dogs, being microchipped. Landlords will be able to increase rents, but the notice period to do so will be doubled.

Maintaining your property
Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, it pays to opt for a fully managed service. If there are any repairs needed to the property, they will be taken care of. That allows both parties to enjoy a good night’s sleep, whatever happens!

Keeping it legal
Estate agents make it their business to keep one step ahead of the game when it comes to legislation and paperwork. That keeps the property in question compliant for all. Failure to do so can lead to fines for landlords. If you are a tenant and want your reference or deposit taken care of, then this is just as much in the interests of the landlord.

It's about working together
Letting agents are the bridge between the ever-more complex landlord-tenant relationship. And it’s comforting for both parties to have an expert on your side that you can call at any time.

Contact us today for a better renting or letting service

GOV.UK*



Heating your home this autumn: Top tips that save you money

 
 


The days are getting shorter and darker, and as autumn leaves begin to fall and the temperature starts to drop, it's time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. You want to be snug and cosy without worrying about the costs of energy bills before the cold of winter bites. Then you can relax and enjoy your home in the colder seasons of the year.

Book a checkup for your boiler
Before the cold weather sets in, it’s always wise to book a boiler checkup. A certified technician can ensure that your heating system is in good working condition, identify any potential issues, and perform necessary maintenance. This not only helps your system run efficiently but also extends its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.

A change is as good as a rest!
It's important not to block radiators where possible, so consider rearranging your furniture as the cold seasons begin. And your new arrangement might leave more space for seasonal decorations or a stash of logs! If you have a radiator heating system, it's essential to bleed them regularly. Trapped air can prevent them from working efficiently, leading to uneven heating. Bleeding your radiators will ensure they operate at their best.

Get a smart thermostat
Instead of heating your home too early or too late, flick the heat on as you leave for home. So, you don’t have to waste energy setting your thermostat to come on at the same time each day. All that waste can be costly. It’s a game-changer when it comes to heating your home efficiently. This is because it allows you to control your heating remotely. Many smart thermostats also learn your preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, optimising energy usage.

Only heat the rooms you need
There's no point in heating a room you don’t use! Perhaps turn off the radiator in the kitchen if you are cooking; the heat from your oven will warm it sufficiently to dry your tea towels! Heating specific areas of your home instead of the whole house is an energy-efficient way to keep warm. You could also use portable heaters or adjustable radiator valves, so you can focus warmth where you need it most, such as the living room or bedroom, while keeping other areas cooler.

Insulate your home
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature while reducing heating costs. Check for gaps and drafts around windows and doors, and seal them using weatherstripping or caulk. You may also consider adding extra insulation to your attic and walls for better heat retention.
 
Dress your windows
Maybe it’s time to buy some new curtains; they may freshen up your rooms. If the answer is no to this suggestion, keep them closed during the evenings and at night to reduce heat loss. During sunny days, open them to let natural sunlight warm your rooms, saving energy.

Solar panels that pay for themselves!
Solar panels are becoming more affordable and are available on finance from big energy suppliers. You may have the option to sell your electricity back to your local supplier which means your solar panels could pay for themselves. Consider a heat pump. Both of these technologies harness natural resources to provide heating and can be both cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long term. They will also add value to your home and make your home more desirable.

Are you interested in buying a more energy-efficient home?



Which sectors should landlords invest in?

 
 


As of July 2023, an average of 187 prospective tenants registered with agents, compared to just 127 in July 2022.* This surge in demand is not limited to any particular sector. Whether you're considering apartments, terraces, or converting existing properties into flats, now is as good a time as ever to invest. It’s no secret that the industry is going through an overhaul, and things are not as simple as they use to be. But if you stop to take a look around, there are so many opportunities right now that promise a profitable future for landlords.

Compact living spaces
Investing in compact living spaces is a smart move in today's market. Apartments and smaller homes are experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by young professionals and couples seeking convenient urban living. The same can be said of places in more rural locations. The appeal of these spaces is better energy efficiency, lower bills, affordability, easy maintenance, and a great choice of locations.

Energy-efficient family homes
Creating energy-efficient family homes is a win-win scenario for landlords. Not only will you contribute to a sustainable future, but you'll also attract a larger pool of tenants. In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, energy-efficient properties are in higher demand than ever before. Tenants are willing to pay a premium for homes that offer lower utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint. This demand translates into higher rental income, ensuring that your investment covers its costs and generates substantial returns.

Student accommodation
The student accommodation sector is experiencing a remarkable surge in demand and growth rates. As a result, student rents have surged by an astounding 30% compared to 2022.** This sector's resilience is driven by the constant influx of students seeking quality housing near educational institutions. By investing in student accommodation, you tap into a market that promises both steady rental income and long-term growth potential.

Holiday lets
Holiday lets are another lucrative avenue for landlords in the UK. Whether you choose a cosy city apartment or a spacious rural retreat, there's immense potential to earn substantial returns. The flexibility of holiday lets allows you to occasionally enjoy your property while reaping the financial benefits the rest of the year. The allure of staycations has further boosted the demand for holiday rentals, making it a prime investment opportunity.

The right guidance is the key to success
The landscape for landlords is changing. It’s never been more imperative to conduct your buy-to-let business by the book. The right guidance in sourcing and managing your property, combined with taking care of tenants, is a full-time job. Managed letting services are becoming essential. Keeping you from falling down any legal pitfalls, managing your property’s maintenance, referencing tenants, and so much more. Conditions and rights for landlords are set to improve with new legislation, such as the Renters Reform Bill. Making such legislation advantageous for landlords with the guidance of a good agent involves compliance for a better future for tenants and landlords. The right letting agent will keep you one step ahead, so your buy-to-let investment thrives.

Contact us today to find your next property investment opportunity

Property mark*
Natwest**