Welcome to your monthly property update!

Utilita Ampthill Fireworks 2025 | 7 Nov 2025

Ampthill's annual firework display in Ampthill Great Park, sponsored by Utilita.

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NCT Leighton Buzzard Nearly New Sale | 15 Nov 2025

Find bargains on baby & children's clothes, toys & more. Shop sustainably, help the planet & support parents. Run by our amazing volunteers.

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IBIZA REVIVAL | The Shoulder of Mutton Edition | 29 Nov 2025

A musical journey through Ibiza with DJs, live sax, and pure Ibiza anthems. Tickets £5 – limited, book now!

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From Valuation to Completion: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Selling a Home in the UK Market

From setting the right asking price to handing over the keys, selling a property involves several important stages. Understanding each step and what’s expected along the way can make the process far less daunting. This practical, step-by-step guide walks you through the journey from valuation to completion, helping you stay informed, confident, and in control at every stage.

Selling a home is a major milestone and, for many homeowners, one of the biggest financial decisions they will ever make. While the process can feel complex, it becomes far more manageable when you understand how each stage fits together and what you can do to keep things moving smoothly. With the right preparation and professional support, you can approach the property market with clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Get a clear idea of your home’s value.

The selling journey begins with understanding what your home could realistically achieve in today’s market. This involves reviewing recent sale prices for comparable properties, current competition, and local demand. Online estimates can provide a useful starting point, but they don’t account for factors such as conditions, layout, or presentation. A professional valuation offers a more accurate picture and helps you set realistic expectations from the outset.

Step 2: Arrange valuations with local agents.

Inviting a small number of local agents to value your home lets you compare their advice, pricing strategies, and marketing approaches. A good agent will explain how they arrived at their valuation, who your likely buyers are, and how they plan to attract them. Choosing the right agent isn’t just about fees; strong communication and proactive support make a real difference as your sale progresses.

Step 3: Agree on your asking price and marketing strategy.

Pricing correctly is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A realistic asking price helps generate early interest and encourages viewings, which can lead to stronger offers. Overpricing can lead to reduced activity and later price adjustments, while a realistic, well-positioned price often creates momentum and confidence among buyers.

Step 4: Prepare your home for the market.

First impressions matter. Buyers often decide how they feel about a property within moments, particularly when viewing online. You can significantly enhance your home's perception by decluttering, cleaning, and addressing minor repairs. Gathering key documents early, such as your Energy Performance Certificate and any relevant warranties, can also help prevent delays once a sale is agreed.

Step 5: Launch your property and manage viewings.

Once your home goes live, effective marketing and flexible viewing availability can make a real difference. Strong photography and accurate property details help your home stand out, while accommodating viewing requests increases the likelihood of attracting serious buyers.

Step 6: Review and negotiate offers carefully.

Price is important when receiving offers, but it's not the only factor to consider. A buyer’s position, such as whether they are chain-free or have mortgage finance in place, can influence how smoothly the transaction progresses. Your agent will help you assess offers and negotiate terms that balance value with certainty.

Step 7: Begin the legal process.

After accepting an offer, the sale moves into the conveyancing stage. Solicitors handle the legal aspects, including contracts, enquiries and searches. This stage can take several weeks and often requires patience. Prompt communication and having paperwork ready can help reduce delays, particularly if your sale is part of a chain.

Step 8: Work through surveys and enquiries.

Buyers may commission a survey, and their solicitor will raise enquiries as part of due diligence. This is a normal part of the process and doesn’t necessarily mean problems. Some issues may require clarification or negotiation, and addressing them calmly and quickly helps keep the sale on track.

Step 9: Exchange contracts.

Exchange of contracts is a key milestone, as the transaction becomes legally binding. A completion date is agreed, and the buyer pays their deposit. At this stage, both parties can move forward with confidence, knowing the sale is secure.

Step 10: Completion and handover.

On completion day, funds are transferred, ownership changes hands, and the keys are released. Your solicitor will settle any outstanding mortgage and final figures. Once completion has occurred, the sale is complete, and you can focus on your next chapter.

Selling a home involves multiple stages, but with a clear plan and the right guidance, it doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Understanding the process helps you stay in control, make informed decisions, and move forward with confidence from start to finish.

Ready to take the first step?

If you’re thinking about selling, whether now or in the months ahead, starting with a professional valuation is the best way to understand your options.

Get in touch to book your valuation or speak to our team for straightforward, expert advice tailored to your home and your goals.

Your journey from valuation to completion starts here.

What landlords need to know this autumn 2025

Autumn has its own rhythm. The leaves fall, evenings draw in, and households across the country begin using more heating and electricity. For landlords, it’s also the season to prepare, because what you do now will decide whether the winter months run smoothly or bring unexpected stress.

Rather than waiting for problems to appear, autumn is the chance to get ahead. A well-prepared property means happier tenants, fewer emergencies, and stronger returns. Here’s how to make the most of the season.

Start with seasonal maintenance

Cold, wet weather is the ultimate test for rental homes. Pipes, roofs, and boilers all work harder in the months ahead. Left unchecked, minor issues can escalate quickly, and tenants will notice.

Tasks to tackle now include:

Boiler service
A quick visit from a Gas Safe engineer keeps heating reliable and safe. Given that heating failures are one of the most common tenant complaints in winter, prevention really is cheaper than cure.
Roof and gutter checks
Stormy weather and falling leaves can wreak havoc. Loose tiles or clogged gutters may not sound urgent now, but they’re often the source of damp and leaks come January.
Seal against draughts
Replacing worn window and door seals helps tenants keep bills down and makes the property more energy efficient, a benefit for both landlord and tenant.
Outdoor safety
Slippery leaves, broken lights, or uneven paths can be a hazard. Well-lit, safe access matters more as nights get longer.
Alarms and detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be checked regularly. They’re a legal requirement, but more importantly, they protect lives.

For landlords using EweMove’s full management service, these checks can be arranged and monitored by your local team, saving you time and worry.

Keep pace with compliance and energy rules

The private rental sector is evolving, and energy standards remain a focus. Autumn is a smart time to ensure your property is on the right side of regulation.

Gas and electrical safety

Gas Safety Certificates must be renewed annually.
Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) are required every five years.

Falling behind risks not only fines but also difficulty regaining possession if needed.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

At present, landlords must achieve a minimum rating of E. Although government proposals to raise the bar to C by 2028 have yet to be confirmed, energy efficiency improvements are already paying off in the rental market.

Tenants are increasingly looking for homes that cost less to run, and better-rated properties attract stronger demand.

Improvements to consider include:

Loft insulation
Modern heating controls
LED lighting throughout
Upgraded glazing

These changes make a property more attractive and help future-proof against potential rule changes.

Connect with tenants before issues grow

A landlord–tenant relationship is like any other: communication matters most when times are tough. Autumn is a great moment to check in, because the transition to colder, darker months often reveals new challenges for tenants.

Ways to stay connected:

Proactive communication
A short note about heating use, ventilation tips, and reporting procedures shows tenants you’re thinking ahead.
Encourage early reporting
Problems like condensation, mould, or noisy heating systems might seem minor to tenants, but they often indicate larger issues. Encourage tenants to get in touch early.

When handled well, these conversations prevent disputes and encourage tenants to stay longer, reducing costly void periods.

Check your rental income and returns

Beyond maintenance and compliance, autumn is also a financial checkpoint. With the year’s end approaching, landlords should review whether their rental income is on track.

Market context
According to Zoopla’s Rental Market Report (Autumn 2025), average rents have grown by 8.2% year-on-year, though growth is slowing as affordability stretches tenants’ budgets. Rightmove data also shows strong demand in many regions, but warns of longer marketing times where properties are priced above local averages.
What this means for landlords

Review your yield
Work out your net yield by accounting for mortgage payments, maintenance, insurance, and agent fees. If returns are slipping, it may be time to adjust rent or refinance.
Benchmark locally
Compare your rent against similar properties nearby. Competitive pricing prevents voids while ensuring you get fair value.
Plan ahead
Consider upcoming costs, such as EPC upgrades or increased mortgage rates, when deciding on rent reviews.

At EweMove, we provide free rental valuations with local data, helping landlords decide whether to adjust rents, refinance, or simply hold steady.

Think ahead to winter voids

If your property becomes vacant this autumn or winter, it’s more vulnerable to damage. Frozen pipes, damp, and break-ins are more likely in empty homes.

Simple steps can protect your property:

Leave the heating on a frost setting
Use timer switches for lights
Check regularly or arrange inspections
Secure all access points and outbuildings

EweMove’s managed service includes vacant property checks, meaning landlords can relax knowing their investment is safe even when empty.

Make the most of the season with smart planning

Autumn is more than a season of to-do lists. It’s about preparing for stability, both in property condition and rental income.

By acting now, landlords can:

Reduce the risk of costly repairs
Stay compliant with ever-changing regulations
Build stronger tenant relationships
Protect and grow rental yields
Enter the new year with confidence

Why landlords choose EweMove

Landlord responsibilities don’t pause with the seasons, but they don’t need to feel overwhelming.

EweMove’s property management services are designed to take the stress away. From routine maintenance to legal compliance, rent collection to tenant care, our local teams handle the details so landlords can focus on the bigger picture.

With our mix of 24/7 tenant support, transparent financial reporting, and local expertise, landlords enjoy peace of mind and better returns.

Book your free valuation today

As autumn settles in, now’s the perfect time to check how your property is performing and prepare for the year ahead.

Book your free instant valuation with EweMove today!

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UK House Price Outlook 2026: What Falling Interest Rates Mean for Sellers and Buyers

Falling interest rates are beginning to reshape affordability, buyer behaviour and pricing expectations, creating new opportunities and new decisions for those planning a move. Understanding how these changes affect you is key to navigating the year ahead with confidence.

After a period of adjustment driven by higher borrowing costs, the UK property market is showing signs of renewed stability. Mortgage rates have started to soften, lending criteria are becoming more manageable, and buyer confidence is gradually rebuilding. Rather than a sudden surge, the outlook for 2026 points toward a more balanced, measured market where realistic pricing, good preparation and timing will play a central role.

What falling interest rates mean for buyers

For buyers, easing interest rates are improving affordability and increasing choice. Lower mortgage rates can significantly reduce monthly repayments, boosting borrowing power and widening the range of properties buyers can realistically consider. This is particularly important for first-time buyers, many of whom have spent recent years waiting on the sidelines while rates remained high.

As confidence improves, more buyers are returning to the market earlier in their search. This means that well-presented, realistically priced homes are attracting attention quickly, especially in areas with strong local demand. However, buyers are still value-conscious. The market is no longer driven solely by urgency; buyers are taking time to compare options, assess long-term costs, and negotiate carefully.

What falling interest rates mean for sellers

For sellers, the outlook for 2026 is quietly positive, but success will depend on strategy rather than optimism alone. Improved affordability brings more buyers back into the market, increasing demand and widening the pool of prospective purchasers. This is particularly noticeable among buyers who may have been constrained by affordability tests in recent years.

That said, pricing expectations remain grounded. While widespread price spikes are unlikely, steady price growth in well-performing areas is expected, especially where demand outpaces supply. Sellers who price realistically from the outset are far more likely to benefit from increased competition, stronger early interest and smoother negotiations. Overpricing, however, still risks slowing momentum and reducing final sale prices.

A more balanced market in 2026

The emerging picture for 2026 is one of balance rather than extremes. Buyers have more confidence but remain cautious. Sellers have more opportunities but must be market-aware. This creates an environment where well-presented, well-priced and well-marketed homes perform strongly, while others may take longer to secure interest.

Transaction times are also expected to stabilise. As affordability improves and fewer buyers are stretched to their limits, sales are more likely to progress smoothly through the legal stages. This benefits both sides, reducing fall-through rates and improving certainty once offers are agreed.

How buyers can prepare for 2026

Buyers looking ahead to 2026 should focus on preparation as much as opportunity. Securing a mortgage agreement early, understanding true affordability and being clear on priorities will put buyers in a stronger position when the right property appears. While competition is increasing, being organised and ready to act remains one of the strongest advantages in a recovering market.

How sellers can take advantage of changing conditions

Sellers considering a move in 2026 should start planning early. Understanding current value, preparing a home for sale and choosing the right time to launch can all influence the final outcome. Presentation and pricing remain crucial, particularly as buyers have more choice and are comparing properties carefully. Sellers who align their expectations with market reality are best placed to benefit from renewed demand.

Looking ahead

The UK housing market in 2026 is shaping up to be calmer, more confident and more predictable than in recent years. Falling interest rates are easing pressure on buyers, reopening doors that were previously closed, and giving sellers a broader audience and improved conditions for moving.

Rather than dramatic shifts, the year ahead is likely to reward those who are informed, prepared and realistic. Whether you’re buying, selling or simply considering your options, understanding how interest rates influence behaviour can help you make smarter decisions and move forward with confidence.

Thinking about your next move?

If you’re considering buying or selling in 2026, understanding how changing interest rates affect your position is the best place to start. A professional valuation or early market discussion can help you plan timing, pricing and next steps with clarity.

Get in touch to explore your options and take confident steps toward your next move.

How to Save Money on Bills in Your Rental Home This Winter

Whether you live in a compact flat, a shared student house, or a cosy terrace, one thing is certain: winter brings higher energy bills. For tenants in older homes especially, staying warm without breaking the bank can feel like a challenge.

With energy costs still a concern across the UK, and household budgets already stretched, it pays to know the simple, practical steps you can take right now. The good news is that you do not need to spend much or make major changes to cut your bills. Small adjustments and smart habits can add up to big savings.

In this guide, we will cover everything from draught-proofing on a shoestring to understanding your EPC rating, knowing your landlord’s responsibilities, and reporting repairs before they become bigger problems. By the end, you will have a winter-ready plan for keeping your home warm and your wallet happy.

Why Energy Bills Can Hit Renters Hard

While rising bills affect everyone, tenants often face specific challenges.

Older rental homes may have single glazing, thinner walls, or outdated heating systems.
Shared houses can drive up energy use when flatmates are not on the same page.
Limited control means tenants cannot always make big upgrades, such as replacing windows or improving insulation.

That is why the focus has to be on tenant-friendly solutions: small, affordable changes that do not require major alterations.

How to Draught-Proof on a Shoestring

Draughts are one of the sneakiest culprits when it comes to wasted heat. They let warm air escape and cold air in, which means you are effectively paying to heat the outdoors. Luckily, stopping them does not need to cost much.

Quick wins for tenants

Draught excluders: A simple rolled-up towel or a low-cost draught stopper under the door keeps warm air in.
DIY window film: Transparent plastic film sticks across windows to reduce heat loss. It is removable and cheap to buy.
Thermal curtains: If you can, invest in lined or heavy curtains. Close them as soon as it gets dark.
Rugs and mats: Covering wooden floors stops cold draughts sneaking up from below.
Letterbox and keyhole covers: Small details can make a big difference. These can be fitted for just a few pounds.
Chimney balloons: If your rental has an unused fireplace, a chimney balloon prevents warm air escaping.

Pro tip: Focus on the rooms you use most. Even draught-proofing just the living room or bedroom can make a noticeable difference to comfort and your bills.

Why EPC Ratings Matter (And Where to Find Yours)

Every rental property in the UK must have an Energy Performance Certificate, also known as an EPC. This document gives the home a rating from A, which is most efficient, to G, which is least efficient, along with estimated running costs and suggested improvements.

Why tenants should pay attention

Lower bills: A flat with an EPC rating of C will usually be far cheaper to run than one rated E or below.
Legal standards: Landlords must ensure their properties meet a minimum EPC rating of E, unless exempt.
Forward planning: If you are choosing between rentals, EPCs are a great comparison tool. A slightly higher rent in a more efficient home could save you more in monthly bills.

You can check your home’s EPC easily on the government’s online EPC register. All you need is the property address.

What Your Landlord Is Responsible For and What You Can Ask For

As a tenant, it helps to know exactly what your landlord is responsible for. That way, you are not left paying the price for issues that should be addressed.

Landlords are typically responsible for

Heating and hot water systems
Boilers, radiators, and plumbing
The structure and exterior of the property, including insulation, walls, roofs, and windows
Electrical wiring and appliances they provide

Tenants, meanwhile, are expected to

Replace lightbulbs and fuses
Use heating and appliances responsibly
Keep the property ventilated to reduce damp and mould
Report problems promptly

Reasonable requests you can make

Boiler servicing: Ask when it was last serviced. It should be checked annually.
Radiator maintenance: If your radiators do not heat evenly, the system may need bleeding or balancing.
Window repairs: If frames are damaged or do not close properly, let your landlord know.
Energy-saving upgrades: LED lighting, smart meters, or improved insulation are worth raising in conversation.

Tip: Always report requests in writing and keep a record. This protects both you and your landlord and ensures clear communication.

How to Report Repairs Early (Before They Get Worse)

Small issues can quickly snowball into bigger problems if ignored. And when it comes to energy bills, delays can be costly.

Repairs worth reporting right away

Boiler noises or pressure drops: This could mean the system is struggling.
Leaky windows and doors: These can massively increase heating costs.
Damp or mould patches: Often a sign of poor ventilation or leaks.
Cold radiators: May indicate trapped air or system issues.

Best practice

Report in writing, ideally by email.
Include photos or videos.
Follow up if nothing is done within a reasonable timeframe.

Not only does this save you money on bills, but it also keeps your home safe and comfortable.

Everyday Habits That Make a Big Difference

Beyond repairs and draught-proofing, the way you use energy day to day has a huge impact.

Thermostat savvy: Reducing the setting by just one degree could save around £100 a year.
Use timers: Heat only when you need to, such as mornings and evenings.
Shut doors: Keep warm air in the rooms you are using.
Laundry tips: Wash at 30°C and only run full loads.
Unplug devices: Chargers, TVs, and consoles still use power on standby.
Cook efficiently: Use lids on pans, batch cook meals, and only boil the water you need.
Air-dry clothes: Tumble dryers are one of the biggest energy guzzlers.

These are small, low-effort changes, but together they can take a significant chunk off your winter bills.

Planning Ahead for Next Winter

Even as you focus on staying warm this year, it is worth thinking about the future. If you are considering moving, energy performance should be part of your checklist.

When viewing properties, ask:

What is the EPC rating?
Are the windows single or double glazed?
How old is the boiler, and when was it last serviced?
Is there loft or wall insulation?

At EweMove, we understand that tenants want homes that are warm, efficient, and affordable. By factoring energy performance into your next rental search, you can make sure your new home is not only welcoming but also economical to run.

Conclusion

Winter bills do not have to overwhelm you, even if you live in an older or less efficient rental property. With a combination of draught-proofing, understanding your EPC, clear communication with your landlord, and a few everyday energy-saving habits, you can cut costs while keeping comfortable.

At EweMove, we are committed to helping tenants find homes that feel warm and welcoming all year round.

Find your next warm, welcoming rental with EweMove today.