Courts will Re-open for Housing Possession Hearings Monday 24th August 2020

courts

The government has confirmed that the evictions ban is to end on the 23rd August and that the courts will re-open for possession hearings the next day, Monday 24th August. The announcement was made by Lord Greenhalgh;
“This is an important step towards ending the lockdown and will protect landlords’ important right to regain their property.

Work is underway with the judiciary, legal representatives and the advice sector on arrangements, including new rules, to ensure that judges have all the information necessary to make just decisions and that the most vulnerable tenants can get the help they need when possession cases resume.”

This last paragraph is a reference to the pre-action protocols that the government has been working on in recent weeks that will require landlords to work much more closely with financially struggling tenants before a judge will allow a possession hearing to be granted.

Updated Coronavirus Procedure

30th November 2021

IT IS BUSINESS AS USUAL! As of 4am today it has now become mandatory to wear face coverings in our offices, if you are visiting us.  However, due to Government Guidelines for social distancing our offices will be closed to the public for the time being, unless a prior appointment has been made.

PLEASE SEE A LIST OF EMAILS BELOW FOR SPECIFIC CONTACTS

MAINTENANCE – ros@tgres.co.uk

ACCOUNTS – nicky@tgres.co.uk

SALES – glenn@tgres.co.uk

LETTINGS – info@tgres.co.uk

 

We thankyou for your co-operation and understanding at this time.

Coronavirus Procedure

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IT IS BUSINESS AS USUAL! However, due to Government Guidelines for social distancing our offices will be closed to the general public for the time being.

If you are due to move into a new home, we have systems in place to ensure this is not disrupted so please call us for more information.

If you are a tenant and have a maintenance issue, please email to the contact below or call 01452 300822 and this will be dealt with as usual.

PLEASE SEE A LIST OF EMAILS BELOW FOR SPECIFIC CONTACTS

MAINTENANCE – info@tgres.co.uk

ACCOUNTS – info@tgres.co.uk

SALES – info@tgres.co.uk

LETTINGS – info@tgres.co.uk

 

We are trying to run the business and keep things as normal as we possibly can, but also taking advice from the correct partners to ensure we have everything in place to limit any potential disruption to the tenants, landlords and vendors. However, this is a rapidly developing situation so things may change quickly. In the meantime, if you have any queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.

We thank you for your co-operation and understanding at this time.

Team TG

 

 

Finally! The Electrical Safety Regulations are to become Mandatory

Electrical Testing

The first and second full working weeks of January 2020 have already been super busy and we see some new legislation coming into force with an announcement from Government that  is The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020

 

What does this mean for landlords?

In short, there will no longer be this “should we, shouldn’t we test electrics” attitude. Understandably, it is difficult for anyone to understand that if legislation is not in place, why should they be forced to carry out testing. But, with the best will in the world, letting agents explain over and over, that should an accident or fire (electrics related) occur, the landlord WILL be liable. This has been the case forever.

 

Time Frames – Another Transitionary Period

With the approval of the Houses of Commons and Lords, landlords and agents will need to ensure electrical installation inspections and testing are carried out for ALL NEW tenancies in England from 1 July 2020 or from 1 April 2021 for EXISTING tenancies. This helps with planning and preparation for landlords, agents and of course, electrical engineers.

Every fixed electrical installation will be inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person.

 

What about the Electrical Certificate ?

As per the regulations landlord is required to obtain a report of the results of the inspection and test, supply it to each tenant within 28 days and retain a copy until the next inspection is due.
A copy of the most recent report must be supplied to any new tenant before they take occupation, or provided to any prospective tenant within 28 days of a request from the prospective tenant.
If requested, the report must be provided to the local housing authority within 7 days.

 

Enforcement

The Regulations will require local authorities to enforce the regulations. The local authority will have the power to arrange and impose remedial action.

 

Breaches, if proven, can result in a financial penalty of up to £30,000.

 

Alex Clark and TG Residential pleased to announce merger

We are pleased to announce the merger of two of Gloucestershire’s leading estate and letting agents, Alex Clark and TG Residential.

 

 

Why TG Residential Ltd merged with Alex Clark Lettings

 

 

Founded on core family values of honesty, passion and trust TG Sales and Lettings was founded by Rachel Tolley-Gibbs, Glenn Smith and Vince Mitchell.  This company is a merger of two successful property companies, TG Residential Ltd and Alex Clark Lettings on the 1st May 2018.

 

Together we are a progressive independent sales and lettings agency with a big personality and we combine expert knowledge with traditional values to offer you an exceptional level of service and real value for your money.  Because we’re independent, we can offer you a tailor-made service that’s right for you.

 

With over 75 years’ experience between us, our passionate team lives and breathes the property market; we’ve experienced the buzz of buying our first home, the emotional roller coaster of selling and the headaches that can be involved in renting.  We understand how overwhelming it can all be because we’ve been there too.  We use our own experiences to ensure you are receiving the right support and advice when you need it.

 

We cover the whole of Gloucestershire with our area of expertise being in Gloucester, Stroud, Cheltenham and the Forest of Dean. We cover the needs of sellers, buyers, landlords, tenants, investors and developers so whether you have a house for sale in Stroud or flat to rent in Gloucester, we are ready to get you moving.

 

Whether you are just beginning your journey in the property world and about to take your first step on the ladder, looking for sound investment advice or just a safe pair of hands to manage your property then we’d love to help.

 

 

Our way of thinking

 

 

We understand that you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression so we spend a lot of time on training and self-development on the simple elements that we believe make a big difference.  Whether that is how we greet our clients, how we present ourselves, answering the phones promptly, responding to enquiries quickly and effectively………the list goes on.  We strive to give everyone we work with a positive experience from the start.

 

Customer service is our number one priority and outstanding customer service means accurately finding out our clients’ needs by listening properly and asking the right questions.  Our team or property experts are united by one goal, to achieve the best price for your property in the shortest time through unrivalled presentation and superior service.

 

We present your property to the highest standard and will devote more time and resources to each property than any other estate agent.  With TG Sales & Lettings you can be sure your property will stand out from the crowd.

 

TG Sales & Lettings work to the highest standards and part of our commitment to the customer is we are members of ARLA and The Property Ombudsman (TPO) and subscribe to their Code of Practice for both Estate Agents and Letting Agents.

10 Reasons To Let your Property in Gloucester

1. Location

Gloucester is a small city which makes it easy to get around and it also benefits from ideal commuting distances to Bristol, Birmingham and South Wales. Nestled in the Cotswolds, you’ll find history and nature in abundance and with huge amounts of investment attracting many businesses to the Docks area, Gloucester has a lot going for it and an exciting future.

2. Flexibility

The rental market is strong and as lifestyles become more flexible, so too will people’s housing needs. For people who want to study or move between jobs frequently, renting is the ideal solution. Gloucester is home to several large industries as well as a University meaning a steady influx of people requiring short-term housing options.

3. House Prices

An increasing population and a national shortage of housing have pushed house prices up to a point that many first-time buyers can’t get on to the housing ladder. Renting offers them a chance for independent living is cheaper and can give people the time to save up for a deposit.

4. Rent

By using one of Gloucester’s professional letting agents, you’ll know that you’ll be getting your rent paid on time. This is crucial if you have a buy-to-let mortgage and need to make payments on time.

5. Property Checks

As a landlord, you’ll have certain responsibilities to keep your rental home safe and functioning. A Gloucester letting agency can take the stress out of this and carry out these checks for you, updating you and taking care of arrangements for any maintenance work.

6. Tenants

Whether you’re aiming your property rental at professionals or students, Gloucester has large communities of both. Finding the right tenant can be time-consuming and costly so it’s a good idea to use an agency who have the expertise to do this on your behalf.

7. Relax

With its prime location and growing population, Gloucester is ideal and your property won’t stay empty for long. Letting an agency manage things for you such as viewings and property checks means you can rest assured that your investment is in safe hands, leaving you time to enjoy the things you love doing.

8. Long-term investment

Renting used to be seen as a short-term option but increasingly people are renting for longer periods. The area around Cheltenham and Gloucester is no exception to this and as people look to renting for longer periods of time, the demand for top quality rented accommodation will continue to rise. Therefore, you could be making money from renting for a long time.

9. Perfect Market

Despite being the county seat, Gloucester is relatively small for a city. However, it does have approximately 130,000 inhabitants which is set to grow as a result of the recent baby boom. Currently, a third of the population of Gloucester is under 25 and they will all be looking for somewhere to live when they leave Mum and Dad’s!

10. Future is bright

Unemployment figures in Gloucester are down, following the national average. Investment continues to pour into the city centre with new developments underway at Gloucester Quays, improvements to transport links and further strong growth is expected. In recent years, Gloucester has attracted more than £700 million of private sector investment so the future is bright for this south-west city.

How successful are the top Online Agents – A must read for anyone thinking of selling in Gloucester!

As a proudly independent high street agent, we are always interested to see how others are performing, particularly the online agents that have become much more popular in recent times.  However, it is very difficult to find information on how many properties they actually sell.

 

Did you know that Online agents charge an upfront fee, which is payable even if the property does not sell?  

We will charge you a very competitive commission on a ‘no sale, no fee’ basis and will do all the work for you.

 

However, we understand that some homeowners want something a bit different and maybe a mix up of an online and traditional agency.  As an independent agent, we work with you to come up with the best package possible to suit your needs, we aren’t tied to corporate spreadsheets and flow charts, we appreciate everyone is different.

 

Did you know that half of Online agents listings remain unsold?

Research carried out by getagent.co.uk found that around half of online agent listings hadn’t sold after the 14-month period. Purplebricks completed on just 57% of the listings from January 2016, as of February 2017. Housesimple completed on 58%, while Emoov and Tepilo were even lower with 51% and 48% completion rates.  And for this, you have already paid them a fee!

 

So, a company called getagent.co.uk has taken matters into their own hands with interesting results!

 

See the results here before you decide to instruct an online agent;

 

https://www.getagent.co.uk/labs/online-agents?utm_source=agent-engagement&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=online-agent-research

Step by Step Guide to stage your home for a QUICK SALE!

Welcome to the TG Res complete ‘Home Staging Plan’ which will effectively help you sell your home.

THE ULTIMATE TIP……..

Never Presume!  This is one of the biggest mistakes that is made by sellers who presume that potential buyers can see past their décor and clutter. Never presume that people can imagine a room with their sofa in it, never presume that people can judge space as they most likely can’t.  If you bear this in mind at all times when staging your home, then you are on the right path to a quick and successful sale.

 STEP 01 – Declutter

We all have that one room that is stored to the ceiling with boxes and “stuff” and the thought of going through it is, frankly, overwhelming.  Take a room at a time and start to organise! Minimise and remove excess furniture where you can. It will make a huge difference to the space.

STEP 02 – Visual Inspection

Once you have decluttered its time to take a step back and walk around your home with a critical eye.  Try to think like a buyer, what would you look for when viewing a home? When getting your home ready for sale people often forget the exterior.  Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, clear the leaves!  Buyers want a house that has been looked after and well maintained.

STEP 03 – Time To Clean & Touch Up

Now it’s time to clean!  This is simple, clean everywhere inside and out and make it sparkle and touch up any paintwork to make it look fresh.  If you want a good price, then it needs to be in top condition.

STEP 04 – Accessorise

Accessories are your best friend when you are staging your home for sale.  You need to look at the purpose of each room and “dress” it accordingly.  If it’s a bedroom, put a bed in it.  Again, never presume that buyers can visualise what it will look like.  Plump up your cushions, buy some statement light fittings for the living room and make it flow and co-ordinate.  Give it the WOW factor!

STEP 05 – Give It Some Kerb Appeal

First impressions last.  You want potential buyers to be excited about what lies behind the front door.  Its as important to accessorise outside as well as in.  Consider adding some potted plants and hanging baskets to make it look welcoming and well loved.  Potential buyers may even look at the condition of your neighbour’s kerb appeal and although you don’t want to upset them you could offer to tidy their front if needed.

STEP 06 – Photo Call

Now you are ready for photos.  I cannot stress the importance of photos enough when selling your home.  The majority of enquiries come from online sources and so photos need to show off your home to its best advantage.  Great photos attract buyers to view and poor photos can have the opposite effect and put them off.  The photos need to be honest so make sure that your home looks like the marketing photos on viewing days.

Moving home is exciting and can be life changing!

This does, however, throw up some obstacles and challenges with lots to consider. So, as we always like to help our buyers and sellers in Gloucestershire – here are our top 10 tips for moving house:

  1. Start packing as you de-clutter.
  2. Use good packing materials, such as bubble wrap, so that your precious belongings survive the journey.
  3. Label all your boxes into rooms.
  4. Make sure you have the tea/coffee, milk and kettle in a separate box. Oh, and the loo roll!
  5. Leave your home as you would expect to find your new one.
  6. Take a photo of your final meter reads then you won’t loose that vital piece of paper you wrote them down on in the rush to get out.
  7. Build your bed first. Its exhausting moving and you will need a good nights sleep.
  8. Have a small box of tools to hand such as Allen keys and screwdrivers. Essential for point number 7!
  9. Get recommendations for removal companies and insure your contents your belongings for the journey.
  10. Get a pet and babysitter for moving day. Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about losing pets and children in the chaos!  Let them arrive when you are in your new home if possible.

 

And one last tip from Team TG…..Breathe and Smile. This is the start of the next new chapter in your life so try and enjoy it

How to Pick the Right Estate Agent – THE TRUTH!

It’s an age-old dilemma, when anyone comes to selling their house, so where do you start? Any agent will tell you that they have ‘’the best service’’ or are the ‘’most popular agent in the area’’ but how do you really define TRUST when choosing to allow someone to represent your biggest and most expensive asset? In an era of online agencies and DIY packages, we’ve devised the recipe for getting it right… first time!

Do the people who are selling your home have the personal experience themselves?

When you speak to any agent, you need to trust that not only can they do their job of selling your home, but can they empathise with the situation you are in? Inevitably, this can be a stressful time for any person, so dealing with someone who has ‘been there and done it’ themselves can be a huge advantage when it comes to signposting any potential matters concerning the sale. Would you buy a family car from someone who can’t drive? A plate of food from someone who wouldn’t eat it themselves? Not really. Because you probably know they are telling you what you want to hear, rather than from real life experience.

Have you got a good first impression?

Everyone makes judgements about each other, typically you have 13 seconds to make a first impression good or bad! So, whether that is on the phone, face-to-face or even on a valuation of your home, do you think the right amount of preparation has been put in to give you a good first impression? Or even to a potential buyer of your home? Appearance and time keeping is just as important as what you say. Example – an agent tells you they can sell your home for £250,000 – a clear £20,000 more than 2 other valuations you’ve had, but they were 20 minutes late to meet you looking like they have just got out of bed and they are wearing odd socks. Good impression? Let’s say you give them the benefit of the doubt and the same agent is due to meet a buyer at your home. Again late to the meeting and can’t remember which house it is! The potential buyers point the agent in the right direction and finally the viewing can begin. ‘’So, this is the kitchen’’ says the odd-socked scruff as if they have just represented the wisdom of an owl. An extreme example, but if the agent doesn’t care about you, they won’t care about your home.

What if you took the agent fee’s out of the decision-making process?

Now, we know cost/fee’s and the value of your home is of paramount importance. The overall package and value for money needs to be considered. We know selling can be stressful and as the agent in the middle we have a duty of care for customers’ well-being. Having a single point of contact for instructing your home can take some of that stress away, which is why with TG Residential you have a dedicated member of staff attending to every step in the sales process. No need to explain the situation for a third time that day to another person! Plus, no national call centres. Just good old fashioned local knowledge and elbow grease. Going deeper, extensive research about your home, the area, potential buyers needs and why you are selling is all part of the journey. Have you ever had a house for sale while others in the area are banging SOLD boards up? 12 viewings but still no offers? Are the right type of buyers being brought to your property – not as potential buyers, but just to satisfy your appetite to sell and justify the fee?

Experience, good first impressions and doing the right thing, with the right amount of research count for everything and is something we take pride in. We know what makes us different to other agents. Plus, we match our socks as well as we match buyers to your home.