MORTGAGE AND PROTECTION FAQs

At Gascoigne Halman we understand many people have questions and concerns about mortgages at this time.

Below are frequently asked questions for more information and you can also visit: https://www.gascoignehalman.co.uk/finance.html

Will I still be able to get a mortgage?

Whilst there are some mortgage lenders who are reviewing their processes following the government advice regarding Coronavirus, there are still lenders who are offering mortgage deals that are available via our mortgage consultants. As we are unable to offer face to face mortgage appointments at this time, one of our mortgage team can speak to you over the telephone to discuss your requirements in detail if you need any mortgage and protection advice. In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone.

I’ve submitted my mortgage application, but will it still go ahead?

This will vary depending on the lender that your mortgage has been submitted to. Our mortgage services team will use their experience to guide you through any changes to applications already submitted, should this be necessary.

Please contact your mortgage co-ordinator at our Mortgage Business Unit on 01525 244 549 should you have any urgent questions or queries.

What is a mortgage payment holiday?

Following government advice around coronavirus, many mortgage lenders have stated you can apply for a mortgage payment holiday. We suggest that you visit your lender’s website where you will find more information about the way in which they are handling payment holidays for their customers, alternatively if you would like some advice on your mortgage options in relation to coronavirus. In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone.

I’m worried about paying my mortgage, how do I apply for a mortgage payment holiday?

Mortgage payment holidays is a deferment of the mortgage payments for three months and not the lender making the mortgage payments for you, so please think carefully prior to applying.

In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone and we’ll put you in touch with your lender.  Lenders have created a fast track system to approve applications as soon as possible. Your lender might ask you a few questions to try to understand exactly what financial difficulty you’re in, but don’t worry about this, it’s just to make sure that a mortgage holiday is definitely the right option for you.

I own more than one property. Can I apply for multiple mortgage holidays?

Yes, you can apply for multiple mortgage holidays, especially if your mortgages are with different lenders. If your mortgages are with the same lender, then you may not be able to, please do not hesitate to contact us using your local branch contact details to check.

Are there any other alternatives to mortgage payment holidays?

Taking a mortgage payment holiday is not your only option, most lenders can offer other options for payments such as switching your mortgage to an interest-only mortgage for up to 12 months, switching to a new rate to reduce the mortgage payments or extending their mortgage term.  In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone.

I have had a mortgage offer, will it still stand in 3 months?

This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis as different lenders have different offer validity periods. In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone.

How do I contact my local Mortgage Consultant if your branch is closed?

In accordance with government guidelines regarding Coronavirus, to protect our colleagues and our customers our branches are now closed, but very much open for business. Our teams continue to work for our customers, so you can still contact us by email or telephone. Should you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us using your local branch contact details

I have found out that my mortgage consultant has been put on furlough leave – what does this mean?

We have had to make some decisions in order to protect the business and safeguard our staff for the long term. In light of the Governments business support offering a number of our branch based Mortgage Consultants have been furloughed. The decision to place on furlough is not a reflection of an individual’s skill, ability or their value to Connells Group, but is purely based upon the need to safeguard the business and preserve jobs for the long term.

However, there is a team of experienced mortgage and protection advisers continuing to work remotely within the business, and therefore if your query is advice related, one of our experienced advisers will be in contact to help and support you. In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone.

If you have any further questions, or require urgent contact, please contact our Mortgage Business Unit directly on gascoigne.halman@connellsgroup.co.uk or 01525 244529

I need to speak to someone about my remortgage – who do I contact?

In the first instance please contact us using your local branch contact details who will be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced mortgage consultants who will be able to help you over the phone.

 PROTECTION/INSURANCE

How do I make a claim on my Aviva / Ageas policy I got from you?

Please contact their claims line teams direct as per your policy document.

 

Aviva Claims line (Life, Critical Illness, Income Protection)	Changing details, making a claim or ask a question: https://www.aviva.co.uk/help-and-support/contact-us/   Manage your existing policy: https://www.direct.aviva.co.uk/MyAccount/login   0800 015 1142
Ageas Claims line (Buildings and Contents)	0161 830 1316

 

I’m not sure I’ll be able to pay my monthly insurance/protection premiums, what should I do?

As soon as you realise you’re struggling to afford your protection and / or insurance policy, please get in touch with your policy provider. They’ll be able to discuss what your options are.

 

Aviva (Life, Critical Illness, Income Protection)	You can find out information about your policy through your ‘MyAviva’ account https://www.direct.aviva.co.uk/MyAccount/login   Alternatively, if you need to get in touch with Aviva, please contact them via their online form: https://www.aviva.co.uk/help-and-support/contact-us/
Ageas (Buildings and Contents)	0161 830 1316

 

For a policy that hasn’t started yet, please contact our Mortgage Business Unit on 01525 244 549

I have an Aviva policy, but their customer service contact centre is closed. What should it do?

You can find out information about your policy through your ‘MyAviva’ account https://www.direct.aviva.co.uk/MyAccount/login

Alternatively, if you need to get in touch with Aviva, please contact them via their online form: https://www.aviva.co.uk/help-and-support/contact-us/

I’ve just taken out new policies with you, will they still start as agreed?

Yes, they will start when your mortgage application exchanges / completes.

If you have any questions regarding your new policy please contact our Mortgage Business Unit (MBU) on 01525 244 549.

 

 

Disclaimer:

This e-mail (and any attachment) is confidential and may also be privileged. It is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Connells or any of their Subsidiary Companies. Connells accepts no liability for the contents of this e-mail or of any attachment. If you are not the intended recipient, be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, disclosure, printing or copying is expressly prohibited. Further, if you are not the intended recipient, you are strictly prohibited from acting or refraining from acting in reliance on this e-mail.

If you have received this mail in error please delete this e-mail and any attachments and notify the Connells IT Department by telephone on 01525 218 200 or email to helpdesk@connellsgroup.co.uk If you would prefer not to receive future mailings please email unsubscribe@connellsgroup.co.uk Please ensure you provide us with ALL email addresses that you would like us to unsubscribe in the event that you have registered with us using more than one address.

The Connells Group describes companies and brands within the Connells Limited group of companies. Connells Limited is registered in England and Wales under company number 3187394.
Registered Office is The Bailey, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1DN. VAT Registration Number is 500 2481 05.
For activities relating to regulated mortgages and non-investment insurance contracts, Connells Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Connells Limited’s Financial Services Register number is 302221

Visit http://www.connells.co.uk/legal-notices for details of who we are regulated by.

Visit https://www.connells.co.uk/contact-us for details of how to make a Mortgage Service Complaint and your right to refer your complaint to the Online Dispute Resolution platform (ODR)

 

Customer Satisfaction Reviews

18^th April 2018 – Prestbury

We dealt with the Prestbury office.  We were very pleased with the service received and found the staff to be professional, approachable and knowledgeable.  We always received prompt responses to queries and the feedback following viewings was very good.  JH

30^th April 2018 – Marple Bridge

I found Richard to be honest and down to earth in his appraisal of my property (unlike other estate agencies).  His team are very professional, always giving feedback when appropriate.  Of note, it was they who contacted me as and when necessary, unlike the usual case where one normally has to do the chasing round.  JF

 

30^th April 2018 – Heaton Moor Lettings & Sales

I found all the staff at your Heaton Moor branch to be amazing, especially Allison who I worked with while renting my property out and Anna who dealt with the sale of the same property.  I would recommend your branch to anyone without reservation and I thank you all very much for your hard work on my behalf.  CW

30^th April 2018 – Financial Services

The team at Heaton Moor were friendly and helpful in assisting me with the purchase of my first home.  They kept me well informed.  Tom was great at arranging my mortgage for me.  Thankyou! CL

3^rd May 2018 – Stockton Heath

Chris and Karen have been wonderful, throughout a very fraught transaction.  We’ve been kept fully informed, they’ve been unfailingly pleasant, patient and professional; and most importantly they’ve been tenacious when things got difficult.  Their problem solving and proactive approach have made all the difference.  Thank you! RK

8^th May 2018 – Heaton Moor Lettings

We chose Gascoigne Halman to rent out our property on a friends recommendation and we are so glad we did!  Both Alison and Rebecca were brilliant, keeping us updated regularly, patiently answering our questions and offering sound sensible advice.  Throughout the whole process Rebecca was friendly, extremely helpful and totally professional.  She genuinely cared about us as people and did a fantastic job of finding us lovely tenants within the first week! She is a real asset to the company.  We would have no hesitation in recommending Gascoigne Halman to others in the future.  Thank you so much! JO

 

8^th May 2018 – Wilmslow Sales

Markus, I hope you’re well.  We made it! I just wanted to drop you a quick email to let you know how very happy I’ve been with the service offered by you and your team.  Estate Agents are often given bad press but I have nothing but praise for you all.  Lewis, in particular, has been a star! GE

8^th May 2018 – Alderley Edge

The service we received was outstandingly from all the staff at the Alderley branch.  Lesley was our main contact and she was outstanding throughout.

 

15^th June 2018 – Sale

The whole process from putting the house on the market, negotiating and the post offer acceptance service was excellent.  I would single out Andrew Buckley the Manager, Dan and Julie Chapman and Annie for commendation.  They dealt with a purchaser from abroad with care and tenacity where it was required leading to successful exchange of contracts.  JM

 

15^th June 2018 – Didsbury

Gascoigne Halman really have been excellent over the past months through the process of selling our flat.  From start to finish they have gone above and beyond our high expectations of a local estate agent, nevermind the online variety.  When buyers went quiet, they followed up and moved the sale along.  When sales fell through they followed up on previous interest and made a subsequent sale in a very short period.  Every member of the team is committed not just to getting offers on your property but to seeing the sale through from start to finish.  They really do earn every penny! In particular we do have to commend Gemma for her sterling efforts driving the actions on the side of the buyer and buyers solicitor.  I have already recommended GH and the conveyancing firm they recommended to friends and family members who are having similarly positive experiences. CW

15^th June 2018 – Bramhall Lettings

Moharram on the Lettings side dealt with my enquiries.  She was always polite, patient and very pleasant.  She gave some very valuable advice when I needed it.  I bought a house from GH when I moved to Manchester from West Midlands 2.5 years ago.  I was now contacting GH because I wished to purchase a property for an investment.  I was very cautious as I did not know the area very well and Moharram not only gave me some good advice but went out of her way to help me.  I very much appreciate her help and professionalism at all times and feel she is an asset to the company.  FD

15^th June 2018 – Marple Bridge

The whole team were very helpful and patient in dealing with a difficult sale involving probate, tenants, and powers of attorney. We achieved a very successful outcome, handled in a professional and friendly manner.  At all stages we were kept fully informed of progress.  I would recommend this agent.  JC

 

15^th June 2018 – Heaton Moor

Anna was a SUPERSTAR!  She guided us all the way and kept us up to date at all times.  She did her best to keep a long chain sorted out and put in a lot of hard work.

Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction is a priority at Gascoigne Halman and all of our dedicated staff go the extra mile to make sure our customers are happy.

Take a look at the most recent reviews we have received from happy clients so far in 2018!

16^th January 2018  – Stockton Heath

Considering this is not a small local Estate Agent in Stockton Heath, this is how you are treated as if you have entered into their little family and they will look after you completely.
We initially placed house on market earlier in year secured 2 buyers immediately but could not find anywhere to move to so removed property. Then our dream home came on the market. The team put it back on market and had it sold first weekend to a cash buyer. We decided to use their recommendation of Solicitor and absolutely delighted with their service. Direct line to your own solicitor available every time I called!
Every time I became anxious Karen McDonough would calm me by reassuring me all is how it should be
Christine Rees Manager even called to our house with our buyer to clear some last minute issues leaving us all happy to proceed 2 days later.
I cannot recommend this team enough

 

2^nd February 2018 – Heaton Moor

We recently sold our house with Gascoigne Halman’s Heaton Moor branch.  Undertaking such a big life event can be a stressful endeavour but luckily the staff at GH made everything so much more enjoyable for us.  Having communicated with a number of different estate agents we had a choice to make but that was made much easier when Adam came to value our home. He was courteous, polite, professional and enthusiastic…it was this relaxed but confident attitude that made our decision to choose Gascoigne Halman.  Anna guided us through the process of selling our home and the negotiations involved and did so fantastically.  All questions we had were met with Anna’s friendly knowledgeable responses and she put us at ease.  We trusted Anna 100%, she’s amazing, an expert negotiator.  Gascoigne Halman felt very much like a family, one that we were welcomed into with warmth and friendliness, with professionalism and care and we definitely felt looked after as if we were part of the team too.  Thanks to Anna and Adam and the rest of the crew at Heaton Moor Gascoigne Halman we were able to sell our house at a great price and actually enjoy the process! We can’t recommend these guys highly enough!!!

 

2^nd February 2018 – Didsbury

In all of my years buying and selling property, this transaction was one of the most stressful due to numerous last minute issues.  I can honestly say if it wasn’t for Gemma at Gascoigne Halman the whole chain would have collapsed.  She was so calm throughout, even though she had to deal with challenging and sometimes angry people.  On the surface it looked like nothing fazed her.  She kept everyone updated throughout the process and when she wasn’t in her colleagues did the same.  I wouldn’t hesitate in using Gascoigne Halman in the future. Nathan has a great team at the Didsbury office.

March 7^th 2018 – Sale Lettings

A BIG thank YOU to Roxanne Robinson and Jodie Charles who made my partner and I moving from London to Manchester a success.  It was a good experience and I appreciate your professional services in handling the whole process.  Highly recommend, you guys are the BEST and deserve more than 5 STAR.  Please make more room for an additional STAR, please keep it up!

 

9^th March 2018 – Didsbury

We have received an EXCEPTIONAL level of service with our sale, from valuation to completion.  Gemma has been absolutely amazing at every stage in both progressing our sale and advising us with our related purchase.  She is a lovely person whilst also being extremely knowledgeable, professional and efficient.  It has been a pleasure to deal with Gascoigne Halman and we will be recommending you to our friends.

 

14^th March 2018 – Macclesfield Lettings

Outstanding service from GH Macclesfield.  My original property fell through at the last minute because of the incompetence of another agent.  GH were able to get me into a new place within 3 working days.  Excellent, professional, competent, I can’t praise Abi and Louise highly enough. Thankyou! EB

 

14^th March 2018 – Sale

We wish to record our sincere thanks to Andrew and his team at the Sale office for the manner in which they handled the recent sale of our property.  The whole team from inception to completion were thoroughly professional, totally dedicated and throughout the sales process they could not have been more helpful providing us with constant updates on progress.  We are more than happy to record the highest recommendation and thanks to Andrew and his staff at GH Sale branch.  Without question a 5 star service! ACL & AW

14^th March 2018 – Heaton Moor

I have just exchanged contracts for the sale of my first property.  As this was my first sale I was unsure which company I should use, however after speaking/meeting Adam and his team I was extremely confident it was the correct choice.  The advertising and open day proved extremely successful and agreed a swift sale in a difficult market late November.  The communication and support I have received is 1st class.  Anna became my main contact and assisted with the legal formalities keeping in direct contact with the Solicitors, which without doubt helped take pressure off myself and pushed the sale through faster for both parties.  Will 100% recommend and be using in the future.  Thank you once again to all the team in the Heaton Moor office. LT

 

21^st  March 2018 – Lymm

We would like to thank all the staff at the Lymm office in particular Sam and Bobby for the mammoth effort they put into selling our property and securing our beautiful new home.  It’s been a long journey but they kept our spirits up along the way.  I would be very happy to recommend Gascoigne Halman.

 

26^th March 2018- Knutsford

Thank you to the team at the Knutsford office; Andrew, Annie and Ellie for their help in the sale of our lovely home.  I enjoyed dealing with them and appreciated their dynamic pace.  It was excellent that all the agents came to view the house so that they could speak with knowledge on the phone.  The photos were fantastic and really helped bring the house to life on the website and in print.  Many Thanks team!

 

26^th March 2018 – Mortgage Services Department…. (Tom)

We’d like to thank you wholeheartedly for your help support and cooperation in this entire journey which, at one point, had started to look rather bleak.  You’ve played a crucial role to put things together by liaising with the right people at the right time.  You were always there for us whenever we needed you.  You were very thorough and professional in your dealings but it was your willingness to go the extra mile that made it special.  We wish you a very successful career and every happiness.  C&A

 

28^th March 2018 – Heaton Moor Lettings & Sales

Well what can I say I’ve dealt with Rebecca and Alison on the letting of one of my properties in Heaton Norris area and true to their word they let the property within a few weeks and even got the rent they said they would get with 6 months’ rent upfront.  Very easy to get on with and very professional in their job.  They’re a credit to the Heaton Moor branch and I would highly recommend Gascoigne Halman to any Landlord looking for HASSLE FREE letting.  They are going to let a second property for me in May and I hope it goes as smoothly as this one, thanks.  I have also dealt with the Sales side of the team looking for investment properties, Adam and Anna both also very easy to get along with.  Thanks to the team for making my life a bit easier.  CM

 

28^th March 2018 – Hale

An extremely professional service focused on completing a sale quickly and getting the best price in that timescale.  When we were considering two agents we felt that the differentiator was the office staff and environment.  We continued to appreciate this throughout the sales process.  MC

 

4^th April 2018 – Heaton Moor

I cannot praise Adam and Anna enough for their hard work and commitment in trying to sell my house.  Having been disappointed by another estate agent locally, they set up more viewings for me in one week than I’d had in 3 months with the others.  Their attention to detail was reflected in a much better quality brochure which attracted more potential buyers.  I was called regularly and given prompt feedback on viewings, so I always knew where I was up to.  I would recommend them to anyone wanting to sell a house in the Heatons as they have a real drive and enthusiasm for their work.  Their customer care is second to none! LM

 

6^th April 2018 – Cheadle

Katy Bowden was excellent and I would describe her as the PERFECT Estate Agent, a real credit to your Company.  I have already passed another property to you to sell because of Katy.  Thank you. SA

6^th April 2018 – Heaton Moor

 I had the pleasure of dealing with Anna Stocks today.  Her advice was excellent.  An honest conversation, most appreciated! Fantastic local knowledge.  Based on my interaction today, I hope that we find a house with Gascoigne Halman to enable us to work with Anna.  KW

 

9^th April 2018 – Wilmslow

This would have been a tricky one. A fairly decrepit house in a lovely spot puts you between a rock and a hard place in terms of expectations: a seller relying on one view and potential buyers accentuating the other. You (Markus) were spot on from the start, your valuation and your profiling of the eventual buyer. As you know it was your enthusiasm for and knowledge of the location that stood you out from Jacksons, Savills and Bridgfords. They all valued way under 700k which I think shows a now proven under-appreciation of the situation. Your office has dealt with every aspect faultlessly, the marketing, keeping us informed etc, all with efficiency and diplomacy. Yourself and Lewis are very good at just listening and then imparting a sensible view. Many thanks, and also to Jeanette, Sandra, James and the others I apologise for omitting by name. From our experience of this sale you have an impressive office and you have done a good job for us. With thanks and regards, R.

 

13^th April 2018 – Sale

There are three words to describe Andrew’s team:  Professional, Polite and Committed.

 

13^th April 2018 – Wilmslow

The Wilmslow sales office were excellent from start to finish.  Their local knowledge and enthusiasm were unrivalled by other agents. We were kept informed every step of the way by friendly and courteous staff, and when necessary the diplomacy of the sale staff was helpful, effective and professional.  The sale of the property had represented a challenge for one reason and another, and the outcome was not only very satisfactory but completely in line with predictions made by the sales director on day one.  RB

13^th April 2018 – Bramhall

All the staff at the Bramhall office were a pleasure to deal with, especially Jodie.  Jodie was so helpful throughout our purchase process, showing patience with our many questions and being efficient and responsive.  She worked really hard to follow up on all issues and kept us informed at all times.  I know that her efforts helped push the completion through for the agreed date to maintain the chain.  Thank you.  CN

 

13^th April 2018 – Altrincham lettings

Found both Joy and Dan very helpful dealing with letting of my apartment, they put up with me and all my questions in such a friendly manner which was appreciated.  They made my life a lot easier.  Thanks again CO

17^th April 2018 – Knutsford

The property was Grade II listed and presented many problems along the way.  Ellie did a fantastic job to make the sale happen.  I also appreciated Annie and Matthew’s input when Ellie was not available.  Andrew has a great team at Knutsford office.  Everyone was very efficient, knowledgeable and above all pleasant and courteous.  Ellie went above and beyond the call of duty and I shall miss our chats and her sense of humour.  It was a difficult and challenging sale but Ellie made it happen.  I would recommend the Knutsford office to anyone wanting to sell their property.  They get the job done. PB

 

17^th April 2018 – Financial Services & Sales

Through a tough mortgage process and purchase of my new house I have to say that in particular Patricia Randall was an absolute star from beginning to end.  The support she gave and immediate response even whilst on Holiday was beyond my expectations.  I would simply not have my new house now if it wasn’t for Trish and her tenacity and knowledge of the lending options.  On the sales side Dan and Don were very supportive and knowledgeable and communicated between the vendor and myself perfectly.  Thanks for holding my hand guys! RD

 

17^th April 2018 – Cheadle

Katy Bowden is awesome and we love her!

What is your favourite style of property?

The UK is home to a diverse range of properties, each with unique styles that reflect popular trends throughout history.

Whether it’s the rustic charm of a rural country cottage or the symmetry of a Georgian property that catches your eye, there is a style out there to suit everyone.

But which property is perfect for you?

 

New builds

New build homes, built around the 1990s feel spacious and well designed, and tend to focus on more energy efficient features, such as double glazing and practical central heating. These properties feel fresh and new, and usually benefit from off road parking and well contained gardens.

 

Semi-detached Edwardian

Usually found in the suburbs, Edwardian properties tend to have small front gardens and pretty front porches. Light and spacious, the rooms benefit from large windows and high ceilings, and fireplaces and light fittings have Art Nouveau influences.

 

Victorian terraces

Traditionally fireplaces take centre stage in several rooms, and the kitchen is located to the rear of the property. Rustic wooden floor boards feature throughout these terraces and tiles greet you in the hallway. Built before cars were common place, Victorian terraces don’t usually have private parking.

 

Rural detached cottage

Country cottages tend to be jam packed full of rustic charm; low ceilings, wooden beams and exposed bricks are a welcome feature throughout. Rural properties tend to sit in spacious detached plots with well-established gardens. You could even come across a thatched roof!

An exciting new development comes to Sale

Luxury property developer, Altin Homes will release the second phase of their brand new development, ‘The Place’ through our Sale office in February.

‘The Place’ is an exciting new development under construction on Northenden Road in Sale, south Manchester. The site comprises of 24 contemporary 4 and 5 bedroom family homes feature stunning elevations which offer a 21^st century take on the traditional Victorian homes for which the area is well known.

Altin Homes is offering a choice of six house designs with different external features and internal layouts. Externally the large windows, a key feature in any Altin Homes property, which in many of the properties span multiple floors, will bathe the interiors of these homes with natural light.

Designed, as these homes are, for modern day family living, all house styles feature a spacious ground floor kitchen / family room with space for informal dining. The larger properties also have formal sitting rooms.

Bedrooms have been designed to be places of relaxation with master suites featuring dressing areas and en-suite bathrooms. Some master suites occupy the whole of the top floor, offering a get away from busy family life. Many of the second and third bedrooms also benefit from en-suites.

The Place is one of Altin’s Bijou Collection developments. These homes share many of the architectural design features and items of internal specification seen on the large multi-million pound homes for which Altin is so well known in south Manchester. Bathrooms and kitchens feature the well known names of SieMatic, Duravit and Hansgrohe.

For more information on the properties at The Place, contact our Sale office on 0161 962 8700.

 

New Year’s resolutions for home owners

Here we are again, it’s nearly time for a new year and a new you, that time when everyone makes New Year’s resolutions for the year ahead. If you’re feeling fed up about starting 2017 in your property, then it could be the perfect time for a change. It might be as simple as a spring clean, declutter or change of décor to help you feel at home, but the key is sticking to those property promises you made in January, to help you fall back in love with your home.

Here’s a check list to help you update your home and stick to your property New Year’s resolutions in 2017:

 

Spring clean

It might sound simple, but a deep clean and declutter can transform your property helping you to feel at home again. It’s low cost and you can involve the whole family after the indulgent Christmas break!

 

DIY

Are you putting up with broken door handles and lopsided shelves? Start the year by fixing all of the small DIY jobs around the house and your property will go from shabby to chic in no time.

 

Decorate

Opting for a new colour scheme or feature wall can completely transform a tired room. A lick of paint can really freshen the place up and create a beautiful room once again – good for your wellbeing and more inviting to buyers.

 

Garden

Get the garden up to scratch – if you’re not feeling green fingered, consider creating a low maintenance garden which won’t need constant upkeep. This will improve the overall look and feel of your property and provide a useful outside space, perfect for summer dining.

 

Big plans

More and more home owners are choosing to extend their properties rather than move out of them. If you love your house, but just need that extra bit of room, an extension or loft conversion is another great way to add space and add value for when you’re ready to sell.

 

On the move

If you’re ready for a complete change and have the funds to support your property move, there is no time like the present.

 

Begin your property search today at www.gascoignehalman.co.uk

How to utilise your spare room

Do you have a spare room that’s lying empty? Or full to the brim with clutter?

Whether you’re planning on selling your property or simply looking to indulge in a few new furnishings, there is no time like the present to make use of that extra space. You could embrace your hobbies and interior design dreams, go wild with the décor and unleash your creative side. Remember that whatever you choose could help potential buyers visualise the space and show them exactly what’s on offer when the time comes to sell.

We’ve compiled a list of ideas for you to try in your home:

 

Guest room

We’ve all had to give up our own bed when family members come to stay, so if space allows, turn your spare room into a cosy guest room, ready for unexpected visitors and family gatherings. This makes having visitors much easier to accommodate, but also ensures potential buyers can visualise another bedroom in your property.

 

Studio

Is your hobby starting to take over the house? Consider creating a room for music or arts and crafts, this keeps everything neat and tidy in one place and is great for grabbing five minutes me time!

 

Reading room

Consider tidying away those books that are starting to pile up around the house and create a comfy, cosy, tranquil space for you to curl up with your favourite novel. Remember to choose comfy seating and a selection of lights so you can read any time, day or night.

 

Play room

It’s no secret that children love toys, but if your lounge is starting to resemble a nursery, a playroom could be the perfect solution. This helps to keep the rest of your house tidy, and is a useful space if your children have friends around to play.

 

Study

Whether you work from home or need time to revise, a designated work zone can help focus the mind. Find a good sized desk, a comfortable chair and ensure there is plenty of lighting to get the best out of your study time.

 

Something special

How about a space designed specifically with you in mind? Indulge in a walk-in wardrobe or rebalance your equilibrium with a yoga room. Whatever you decide to do with the extra space you don’t have to be practical, remember to create a room that you and your family will enjoy.

 

If you have recently transformed a spare room in your home let us know!

Gascoigne Halman raise money for Breast Cancer Care

Our team here at Gascoigne Halman, along with friends and family have taken part in a Family Walk at Delamere Forest, raising £105 for our chosen charity of the year – Breast Cancer Care. Following the walk, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at The Boot Inn, Willington.

 

Breast Cancer Care was founded by Betty Westgate in 1973, five years after her own diagnosis of breast cancer in 1968. The charity combines the personal experiences of people affected by breast cancer with clinical expertise to provide information and offer emotional and practical support, campaign for improvement in standards of support and care, and promote the importance of early detection.

 

Peter Higham, Director of Operations at Gascoigne Halman enjoyed the walk and said, “We are really pleased to be supporting Breast Cancer Care this year. The family walk at Delamere was a great success, and I’d like to thank everyone at Gascoigne Halman for their fantastic effort. We’re sure the money raised from the walk and our other charity events taking place this year will be put to good use at Breast Cancer Care, and it was great to see our staff along with our friends and families getting into the spirit of this event.”

 

The sponsored family walk is part of our yearlong fundraising effort to raise money for Breast Cancer Care.

How to modernise and update your home on a budget

We can all feel fed up with our homes every once in a while; so if you fancy a change of décor there are small changes you can make to improve the look and feel of your home without bursting the budget. Equally, a fresh new look may be just what is needed to sell your property.

 

Front door

Replacing a tatty or damaged front door can instantly improve the curb appeal of your property, offering an instant welcome. A new efficient door also helps to reduce your fuel bills!

 

Stairs

Stairs are often the first thing you see when you enter a property, consider changing shabby or stained carpet for a stylish new runner. You could also try stripping the carpet back completely, uncovering low maintenance stylish floor boards.

 

Fire place

An old fashioned fire place can really impose on a room – rather than incur the cost and mess of knocking it out, consider covering it with a stylish fire surround, which can be relatively inexpensive and provide an instant update.

 

Interior accessories

A splash of colour can completely change the way a room looks and feels. Consider buying new cushion covers or curtains, to introduce colours and patterns into your room whilst remaining an inexpensive quick fix. If you can’t afford new carpet, a rug can add a new lease of life and even cover that ugly stain.

 

Declutter

Use your alcoves and corners wisely – consider shelving or fitted wardrobes to make the most of your space creating a tidy, clutter free room that’s easier to dust.

 

Kitchen

Tired of your outdated kitchen? Rather than splashing the cash on something new, try changing your splashbacks or tiles or upgrading your cupboard doors and handles. Cupboard paint is easily available in DIY stores if the budget is minimal. Your room will feel fresh and up to date for a reasonably low price.

 

Renovation

If you’re looking to sell your home or you are able to spend money on home renovation, updating your kitchen or bathroom could be the smartest move. A beautifully finished kitchen or bathroom can sell a property, so the fresher the better!

 

If in doubt, a fresh lick of paint and a thorough clean can help perk up your property and make you feel more comfortable, whilst freeing up spare cash to spend on something special!

 

Preparing your house for the holidays

As you look forward to your annual summer break, whether that’s relaxing on the beach abroad or a UK break closer to home, take some time to think about making your home safe and secure.

It’s all part of making your holiday as relaxing as possible so you can fully unwind this summer.

 

Check Your House Alarm

Firstly, if you have one, check that your house alarm is in working order. Apart from keeping your home safe from unwanted visitors whilst you are away, your insurance may not be valid if it’s not in functioning.

 

Timing is key

A house that looks lived in will be less of a target. Put automated timers on lights or radios to fake the impression that there is someone home, even when you are scuba diving in the tropics!

 

Ask your neighbours for a favour

This is the time when you will be glad that you invited the neighbours round at Christmas. Now you can cash in a favour. Ask them if they wouldn’t mind closing the curtains occasionally, putting out and bringing in the bins and collecting any post as well as keeping a general eye on the house whilst you are away.

 

Organise your pets

If you have pets you will understand that they are all important members of the family. You need to make arrangements for them as soon as you can – don’t leave it until the last minute! The good catteries and kennels can get booked up months in advance so make sure you secure a place if you need one.

Alternatively, think about asking a friend or relative to house and pet sit which is also great from a security point of view.

 

Get rid of any spare keys

That spare key that you hide underneath the flower pot… get rid of it! There is no point in risking the security of your house while you are away. Give the key to the neighbour or friend for safe keeping.