Independent advice upfront

by Natalie and Justine

 

We’ve recently launched a new handy sized service to help clients buy, sell or even let their properties…

We’ve done this because we’ve had a number of clients and friends who’ve wanted to get advice on what’s possible before they commit. So we’ve created an accessible, affordable service offer where you get just that…independent expert advice on your property’s potential. You know upfront what you can achieve, what’s involved and a steer on budget too.

If you are thinking about buying:

Whilst we’d never claim to be the experts on valuing properties, we know how and where you’re most likely to get a return when maximising your property’s potential. And it’s our bread and butter to advise on how best to use a space and make it perfect for you and how you live.

An example of how we can help is with a recent client who’s looking at the gorgeous Railway cottages in the lovely Shaftesbury estate, Battersea. They’ve found a good property, but it needs some work on it. The bathroom isn’t in an ideal position, and they want a better kitchen/dining space, so they kindly asked for our help on what was possible.

 

Current plans

 

We went to see property, consulted with our architect (who’s fab, also independent and works with us on structural projects) and advised on 2 options that they could potentially proceed with…both considering rework of existing extension, and a first floor side extension whilst assessing impact on second room space, stairs and bathroom space.

We considered the flow and the best use of the internal space coupled with the structural requirements and implications from our architect, as well as providing some inspiring ideas on what the end result could be like.

The client also consulted a builder for a quote, but really valued our independent expert advice, which wasn’t biased to the scale of works (as they found to be the case with the builder).

 

“Thanks for all the input you gave us which was hugely valuable.”  Bel, Clapham (hoping to move to Battersea soon!)

 

Our top tips on the potential works were:

Know what you are buying, get a full structural survey done especially if there are no building reg documentation for extensions already done
Consider the whole internal space, not just the extra rooms you might want to create. Light and feeling of space is key when dealing with smaller dwellings! This was key around the stairs/first floor landing…

 

Proposed plans

 

 

 

Thinking of selling?

To be honest, we recommend more often than not that clients should only do substantial work before selling if they are going to enjoy it for a bit first as you don’t tend to get the instant return these days unless of course you have bought something completely run down and into a bit of property development!

Buyers can see and value refurbishments that have been done with love and care as oppose to those that are just to make quick buck. More than ever, buyers want a home thats had good quality workmanship in order for them to pay a premium.  Design and finish that’s honest and has integrity nothing frivolous…

Another client in Battersea came to us looking for a more ‘cosmetic’ based solution to improve the selling potential (and also rental catch as a possibility) of their home.

The professional couple were first time buyers, looking to stay in the flat for 3 or so years before selling. As the flat was rather dated, we saw instantly how we could help.

Before:

Our top tips on this project were:

Modernisation – the flat was shouting out for it, especially in the kitchen

There was a possibility of structural work which we presented as an option, but only an option if they were willing to invest more and stay for longer

Storage. Every property in London, especially 1-2 bed flats need great storage. For example, the cellar wasn’t being utilised at all

Durability. Good design is about knowing where to spend it: flooring, work surfaces, don’t scrimp on these!

Lighting. Simple lighting effects can make the world of difference in any interiors, even if you have a budget

 

Here’s the result:

 

To see more, visit our website

For renting, we can offer a similar service where we can optimise the layout of furniture, ensure durable materials are used, and provide all the certification of works needed for letting.

If you’d like to know more, please get in touch. Our services for similar packages shown here start at £250. A small investment before you commit to a house purchase or any works on your property.