Welcome to the latest edition of the Thistleblower.
It has been just a week since our return to work and I am very encouraged by the activity levels so far.
We have valued and taken instructions to sell and let property, as well as agreeing sales and lets on several properties. Understandably, there is some concern over social distancing and we are working very hard with everyone to ensure all the guidelines are met.
I firmly believe that as more people return to work activity levels will increase and help drive the market forward. I have been asked many times what I think will happen to values, my personal opinion is that I think values will remain steady and are unlikely to fall. Although there are concerns about the economy, interest rates remain low and the supply of property is unlikely to increase. This is not 2008, but I do see similar conditions to that of 2009, the forecasted slump did not materialise, instead the market recovered quickly, driven by supply and demand, underpinned by low interest rates and further government support to the general economy.
Ed Mackenzie Smith
Chairman
Rise in property demand
House hunters are raring to go since the government announced the reopening of estate agents across the UK, with the momentum of demand and supply expected to increase.
Leading property portal Rightmove announced that their web traffic surged by an impressive 45% as the housing market reopened, with viewing enquiries also rising by 70%.
Click here to read Rise in property demand.
COVID-19 Safety Guidelines
To ensure the safety of our colleagues, clients and local communities, the following guidelines must be observed.
Click here to read COVID-19 Safety Guidelines.
New video: Foreman Manor
Foreman Manor is an exclusive development from reputable developers, Aspen Homes. Just 9 homes within walking distance of Ash Station, Surrey.
Click here to read New video: Foreman Manor.
Ready…when you are
We appreciate that for many, lockdown is still continuing as it has been for the last 8 weeks. But we’re here to help and are ready… when you are.
Click here to read Ready…when you are.
Bank holiday opening hours
Whilst our branches have re-opened following government guidance, our hardworking teams will be observing the bank holiday this weekend. Find our opening hours here...
Click here to read Bank holiday opening hours.
More than just a home
At Cranmore Lane, Aldershot, you're getting more than just a home, you're also getting a close-knit community who have demonstrated exceptional spirit during the lockdown phase.
Click here to read More than just a home.
Brand New – To Let in Fleet
Introducing a selection of brand new apartments and maisonettes, to let, at the newly built Westminster House.
Click here to read Brand New – To Let in Fleet.
Staying productive at home
If you’re one of the many workers who have set up their office from home over the last eight weeks, you’re likely to have discovered the distractions and obstacles this presents.
Click here to read Staying productive at home.
Glorious gardens
Many of us have spent a great deal of time sunning ourselves in our gardens lately. But what kind of garden could you find if you bought a new family home?
Click here to read Glorious gardens.