Category: blog

When you’ve been letting a property, whether it’s been for just six months or six years, the tenant should make sure the place is clean and tidy before they leave.

A good landlord will require the property to be in a tip-top and sparkling condition ready for the new tenants so we often get asked; “What do I need to do for end of tenancy cleaning?”

By setting the standards high from the start, you’re more likely to attract the right kind of tenant, one who is likely to keep the property nice and clean in future.

So, how do you go about cleaning your property?

We are experts at letting and managing properties in Gloucestershire and we have bags of experience when it comes to advising landlords about this very topic, so we’ve put together a seven point checklist for you as a handy guide.

Don’t forget, if you need any advice, get in touch with us by email at rachel@tgres.co.uk or call us on 01452 300822.

Step 1: Check Over the Whole Property

After your tenant has left, and you’ve done the checks to make sure nothing is damaged or needs to be replaced, walk through the property and make a checklist.

Start at the front door and work your way around, noting down what needs to be done. Being methodical will help you to get it all done efficiently.

Take a photo of each room, as then you will have a record of ‘before’, ready to compare with the ‘after’ shot.

Step 2: Wipe Down Doors and Sills

Wipe down the tops of doors, the skirting boards and window sills. Give everything a good scrub and get any thick dust off. Then you can use polish to buff up to a real shine. Open the windows to let in the fresh air too.

Use quality cleaning products because they will ensure a better job done!

Step 3: Clean Sockets and Switches

Plug sockets are in most rooms and are where you’ll often find a layer of dust. Sometimes the plastic coverings will need a good clean too to get rid of grubby marks. This also goes for light switches which attract dirty finger marks.

Don’t forget that electrics can be dangerous, so take extra care when cleaning sockets.

Step 4: Scrub the Kitchen

The kitchen is the most used part of a home and is the area most likely to need a good, thorough scrub.

Make sure that not only do you clean the surfaces and cupboard doors with disinfectant and anti-bacterial products, but that you also clean inside the cupboards and drawers too.

Vacuum them first to pick up the crumbs, then wipe them down. You can use a specific anti-bacterial spray to make sure they are super clean and fresh.

When it comes to the oven and hob, you can of course clean these yourself, but we think this is an area where you should consider getting a professional in. They will use powerful cleaners and put the elbow grease in to make them come up super clean.

Step 5: Freshen the Bathroom

This important room of the house is often kept nice and clean and hygienic. But, it will still need a good anti-bacterial spray and bleach to make it spot on.

From the taps to the shower, and from the toilet to the bath, go over everything thoroughly. In fact, you may want to use a toothbrush to get into all those tight spaces in the shower unit, around the taps and in the grouting.

Ensure the light covers are clean and any bulbs replaced if necessary. Also, either vacuum or wash the grills of the vents too as these can often get clogged up with dust.

Step 6: Utilise the Vacuum!

When you are using a vacuum cleaner, you’re obviously going to be cleaning the floors, carpets, tiles or vinyl. But, also use a vacuum to get annoying cobwebs out of ceiling corners or in lampshades. Vacuum behind furniture, along the skirtings and any furniture itself too.

You may want to consider getting professional carpet cleaners in if you don’t want to hire a machine.

Step 7: Clear Your Drains and Gutters

If your property has drains and gutters, make sure they are cleaned out and water can run freely. This will stop debris from building up and causing blockages, which can be costly to fix. This job is particularly important in Autumn and Winter.

We have many years of experience in letting and managing properties, and we also know some fantastic tradespeople in and around Gloucestershire so we can recommend them.

Email us at rachel@tgres.co.uk or call us on 01452 300822.

 

Five budget-friendly tips to help you set up your home office

Working from home is now a major part of people’s lives. For some, working from home has been the norm for many years, while for others the concept is still a little confusing.

What’s important though is that your home office is somewhere you feel comfortable, can work competently and efficiently. Work has to be done, whether it’s in a purpose-built office or in a spare room.

So what should you be thinking about when setting up the perfect home office?

Do you need to separate work life from home life?

Do you need space to make calls, write, use the computer, analyse data?

For most, both of these things will be important, so think about where your space is going to be. Is it a corner in the dining room or kitchen, or will it require the spare room, garden shed or integrated garage to be completely transformed?

Once you’ve decided this, then you can look at what you’re going to do with the space. Make a list of what you need or want in your office space, and then prioritise the items.

1. Refurbish and repurpose

Setting up a home office doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Do you already have a desk or table in the garage that simply needs to be repainted? Do you have a few jars in the shed gathering dust and cobwebs? These could easily be washed and cleaned and used for pencils and pens and other stationery items. Make the most of what you already have to hand.

2. Don’t get hung up on buying expensive prints

Here’s an idea, instead of going to big chain stores and buying prints to hang on the wall, print out a favourite photo and buy a frame in which to put it. Not only is this a cheap way to furnish your office, it’s also more personal. Instead of spending a ton of cash on prints of New York skylines or forest glades, you could have an image of a favourite family holiday instead. These will look great and they will be inspirational too!

3. Be thrifty

If you think you need an office desk, or filing cabinet, then you could be thinking ‘expensive’. But wait. There is no need to hot-foot it to your local office furniture shop. Why buy new when you can find what you need simply by asking around?

It might be that a local company has moved or scaled-down its office operations and is giving things away or getting rid of them cheaply.

A friend or family member might have something you can make use of. Why spend a lot of money when you can find something cheaper or free? Keep an eye out on social media in particular and don’t be afraid to ask.

4. Use blackboard paint

Feeling creative? If you are one of those people who needs to draw up creative ideas, or throw ideas on a mind map, then blackboard paint is for you.

For just around £7 a tin, you can paint a blackboard area on part of a wall. You can then write on the wall with your creative ideas or formulae, and then simply wipe it clean afterwards. You will save on having to buy any equipment, and paper too, so you’re also doing your bit for the environment.

5. Double the size with mirrors

Working from home can often mean working in a smaller space than you are used to, but have you thought about mirrors?

A cleverly sited floor-standing mirror will make your space immediately look bigger. Wall-mounted ones will also do the trick, as long as the frames are quite thin. It’s a trick that interior designers and retail outlets use so you should also make use of it. A floor-standing mirror from IKEA will cost from £50 upwards, and large frameless mirrors are only around £15 or £20.

Designing and realising a home office is a personal thing, so get creative. Minimalist or packed with items, with a little thought, creating your home office doesn’t have to be an expensive project.

If you’re thinking of upsizing instead and treating yourself to a property with a ready-made study, call our friendly team at TG Sales & Lettings on 01452 300822 or email us at rachel@tgres.co.uk and we will be delighted to assist you.

 

Interior design trends come and go with the seasons, but there are few trends that stick around long enough to be considered staples in home decorating. Houseplants are one of those evergreen (no pun intended) trends.

Not only do they give a breath of fresh air into your home by bringing the outdoors in, but they also make it look like you’re ‘adulting’ the same way a fully stocked bookshelf does. It shows some level of care and responsibility more than other decor does, which can actually add to the feel of the whole room. Think about your friends’ places who have plants and how you feel when you visit their homes. You’re a bit more impressed and oddly relaxed, right?

Why not recreate that feeling in your own home and take advantage of the other benefits houseplants can offer? A plant is more than just a piece of decor – it’s a living thing that requires care, and in turn, makes you feel more relaxed, along with other mental health benefits one gets from taking care of a living thing.

If you aren’t a plant expert though, this may sound like hard work. Bringing something into your home that requires effort and caring for may just be too much trouble. Therefore, this list is here to help you find the perfect plants for even the most minimal amount of work needed to help them thrive and look great in your home.

Here are the top five indoor plants for your home, regardless of your gardening expertise.

1. Zamioculas Zamiifolia (ZZ Plant) 

The Zamiculas Zamiifolia or ZZ plant is the perfect plant for anyone who usually (and unintentionally), kills any plant they bring home! These plants are easy to care for as they require such a minimal amount of commitment that you could practically ignore this plant and it would be just as happy. You have probably seen them in places like offices that have low natural light – a good sign this plant can take some neglect.

ZZ plants are well known as the Zanzibar Gem because of how shiny their emerald green leaves are. There’s also a variegation of the ZZ plant that has black leaves called the raven ZZ plant, so if you want a more dramatic plant, you could opt for that version. Both variegations require indirect sun but can tolerate low light, so they are great options for areas of the home that don’t have a lot of natural light like a bathroom or tucked away in a corner. The less light this plant gets, the slower it will grow, but it’ll hang on as-is regardless.

They also don’t need a lot of water since they store moisture in their bulbous roots. If it’s sitting in a spot with indirect sun, you can probably get away with watering it thoroughly once a month and letting it completely dry out between waterings. If it’s sitting in a spot with very little light, it needs even less water.

2. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

One of the most recognisable plants, monsteras are super trendy right now and so easy to keep happy. This plant isn’t for anyone with a tight space, however. The split leaves can grow pretty quickly and seem to double in size whenever a new one pops out. If you’ve got the space for it, it can take over and be a focal point of the room, turning your room into an indoor jungle.

3. Sanseveria (Snake Plant)

This plant is practically invincible and much like the ZZ plant, it can grow in almost any condition and only needs minimal water. There are different varieties of snake plants (dwarf, sword, striped, twisted sister, cylindrical, Kenya hyacinth, golden bird’s nest, etc.), so potentially you could just have a massive collection of them and not have the same two types.

Sanseveria plants are also perfect to fit into smaller spaces since, unlike other houseplants, they grow upwards and not outwards. You won’t need to worry about trimming them back because they also grow incredibly slowly.

4. Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

Peace lilies are another easy to care for plant that doesn’t need too much light to thrive, although the more light you can give it, the faster it will grow and bloom those gorgeous white flowers they’re known for. They can grow relatively quickly in medium or low light as well, making them ideal for any room with minimal light. The best part about peace lilies is their tendency to let you know when they need a good drink of water. Their leaves will wilt and flop over, making it look like it’s dying, but if you give it a healthy amount of water, in a few hours the leaves will perk right back up again.

5. Epipremnum Aureum (Pothos Vine)

For anyone who wants a fast-growing plant that takes up whatever amount of space you give it, a pothos vine is the way to go. They’re easy to care for in the sense that they won’t put up a fuss if neglected for a little while but do require intermittent watering and a medium amount of indirect sun. They work best as hanging plants because their vines grow quite quickly, so giving them room to trail down makes any space look like an indoor garden.

With this in mind, if your property is on the market in Gloucestershire, consider the addition of one of these top five houseplants to help transform your rooms in an instant, by bringing your space to life.

 

Whether it’s a good old spring clean or you want to ensure your property in Gloucestershire is spick and span before you put your home on the market, choosing cleaning products that get the job done is essential!

We have become so used to seeing fancy, branded packaging lining the shelves of the cleaning aisle that many of the traditional cleaning methods that our Grandmothers would swear by have disappeared.

Fear not though, because the team at TG Sales & Lettings are full of great ideas, and can offer you 15 old fashioned cleaning tips that really work:

1. Use White Vinegar to Clean the Windows

Do you have trouble getting a streak-free finish? Sometimes, no matter how much you scrub and rinse, your windows will keep drying with streaky marks down them, making them look worse than before.

If this sounds familiar, then white vinegar is the answer. Just spray a little bit on your windows and wipe clean to achieve a streak-free finish.

You can also mix it with warm water and cornstarch to achieve similar results, but a spray bottle of distilled white wine vinegar by itself should do the trick.

2. Use White Vinegar to Remove Limescale

As you’ve probably guessed, white vinegar is incredibly versatile. And in case you’re wondering, it doesn’t leave a nasty odour like malt vinegar would, so avoid the bottle of brown stuff at your local chip shop!

To remove limescale from the kettle, just fill the kettle with a mix of water and white vinegar, leave for a few hours, and when you come back to it the limescale can be removed easily.

You can also use it to remove limescale from showers and taps but take care as it’s not suitable for all taps, such as gold-plated ones.

3. Use Lemons to Remove Stains on Chopping Boards

If your chopping board is looking tired and stained from things like strawberries and raspberries there’s no need to give up on it and buy a new one, because another fruit is the answer you’re looking for.

Just squeeze a lemon over the board and scrub to remove those stubborn stains. If you’re wondering how this works, it’s the acidity of the lemon that works its magic here. Just don’t use it on stone floors or worktops.

4. Use a Lemon to Remove Grease From Dishes

Just like white vinegar, lemons are incredibly versatile when it comes to cleaning. If your saucepans or frying pans have tough grease on them, just cut a lemon in half and rub over them. This loosens the grease, allowing you to remove it much more easily.

5. Use Baking Soda to Clean Dirty Pans

Similar to lemons, the acidity in baking soda makes it a great product for removing stubborn grease. Simply apply it to a scrubbing brush and get to work on your greasy pans, and you’ll find it works far easier than a scourer or sponge.

6. Use White Vinegar to Remove Sticky Residue

Ok, so we’re back to white vinegar, but we did say how versatile it is. Don’t you hate it when you remove a sticker or label and loads of it remains stuck to the object? Well, apply some white vinegar to the area and it’ll magically lift it off.

7. Soak Clothes in Detergent and Water Before Washing Them

This only applies to clothes with a heavy stain, so don’t worry you don’t have to do this every time you’re about to put a wash on.

Before stain removal products became such big business, people had to find other ways to remove them from clothes, and a good pre-soaking before sticking them in the wash was how they did it. And it still works today.

8. Use Baking Soda and White Vinegar to Unclog Drains

There are loads of plug and drain unblockers out there all telling you how tough they are on clogs and blockages, which then underwhelm you.

For something that actually works, put a tablespoon of baking soda down there, follow up with a cup of white vinegar, leave for a couple of minutes and then pour in a kettle of boiling water.

9. Use Toothpaste to Remove Scratches on Glass

Another strange but true cleaning tip! Just make sure you use a classic toothpaste and not the gel ones. Add some to a soft cloth, wipe in a circular motion, then wipe away with a damp cloth and dry.

10. Remove Stains With Glycerin

Rub some of this into any stained clothes, leave for an hour or so and then wash as normal. And it’s great for sore throats too!

11. Use Lemons to Clean Copper Saucepans

To get your copper shining again, lemons will do the job perfectly. You can take the hollow shell of a squeezed lemon, dip it in cooking salt and then scrub the saucepans. Rinse and dry after, and you’ll have sparkling copper again.

 

12. Dust With Water

There’s no need to buy expensive polishes and dust cleaning products, just using water on your duster is sufficient. Give your duster a good soaking, then wring it as dry as possible and use it without any cleaning products. Just make sure to dry wooden surfaces immediately after wiping.

13. Use Natural Ingredients to Freshen the Air

Avoid the chemical smells that come with canned air fresheners and consider more natural options instead. Items like vanilla extract or cinnamon sticks will give your home a unique, longer-lasting smell than a shop-bought air freshener.

14. Use Old Clothes as Cleaning Rags

Just because your t-shirt has a hole in it or doesn’t fit anymore, it doesn’t mean you can’t still get good use out of it. You can use it to clean the car or windows and it’ll do the job just as well as a purpose made cloth.

15. Use Coffee Grounds to De-odourise the Fridge

Put a bowl of coffee grounds in the back of your fridge and it will absorb any bad odours and leave it smelling much fresher.

Now there’s no excuse for you not to have a sparkling house!

 

How to Ensure Your Estate Agent has got the Asking Price Right

When you put your property on the market, you put your trust in us – the experts you have chosen. We have the details, we know your expectations, and our aim is to get you moving as soon as possible.

Sometimes, different agents will come to other prices and of course, there are reasons for this, such as an estate agent simply trying to win your business or perhaps a different level of experience and knowledge.

When talking with home movers in Gloucestershire, we’ve discovered that many people do indeed wonder about whether or not their property has been priced correctly. You’ve probably heard phrases like “priced to sell”, but how do you really know if your property has been undervalued or indeed overvalued? And why does it matter?

So, let’s look at how you can tell whether your property is on the market at the correct price.

What is the Right Price?

In some respects, this is the million-dollar question. Is your property in Gloucestershire priced on the low side to sell quickly, or is it priced relatively high so that you can potentially make more money? Well, actually, the right price is only ever about what you and the buyer agree to so that a sale can move forward. No other prices really matter!

Top Tip: Define what price you want or need to sell your house for and if you are prepared to lower your expectations if the need arises.

Is my Property Overpriced?

Are you frustrated because you seem to get a lot of viewings but no offers? Well then, one of the reasons could be that your house has been overvalued.

Potential buyers might like the look of your house in Gloucestershire

but fail to view because they feel the asking price is too high. They may view, and they may love it but still feel it’s not worth the price-tag. Not all potential buyers will feel they can risk putting in a low offer either.

If you are enjoying lots of viewings but no offers, these are clear signs that something may need tweaking, particularly if similar properties nearby have sold.

Top Tip: If you do feel things need to change, do not be afraid to speak with your estate agent. After all, it’s in their interest to get a sale, so if their strategy needs to change, it should.

Is my Property Undervalued?

To define undervalued, you have to look at a few different factors, including how much you are prepared to sell your house in Gloucestershire for. You might get an offer, or multiple offers, super quickly and this may worry you into thinking you could have achieved a higher price. But that is not necessarily the case. A good estate agent will ensure your home does not stagnate on the market!

Conversely, if you are getting no viewers and your property is on the market at a lower price than similar homes which have sold nearby, an under-valuation might be making people wonder if there is something wrong with your property!

Top Tip: Do some research of your own into similar properties on the market in Gloucestershire. If yours appears obviously low, speak to your estate agent.

Do Your Own Research

We at TG Sales & Lettings use our local experience and knowledge to advise you of what we think your property is worth. Sometimes though, we suggest having a look on the internet yourselves as well, this can give you peace of mind that we’re on the right track.

There are so many tools at your fingertips, and you should use them!

Go to the search engine of your choice and search for house prices in your area. There are sites that not only give you properties that are currently on the market but also offer up what a property has sold for in the past too.

You could also make use of online valuation tools if you want a second opinion. However, bear in mind that these are not always accurate, and it’s best to speak to professionals who have local knowledge and experience.

Top Tip: Compare similar properties in Gloucestershire

as you’re likely to get a good comparison. If you compare a similar house, but in different localities, then different factors will affect prices.

What Next?

Speak to your agent. We cannot stress strongly enough that communication is key. If you have concerns and you’ve done some research, then talk to your estate agent. Maybe it’s time to review how they are operating and whether or not they need to change.

Top Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask the questions and challenge. It’s your property that you are selling; you are in the driving seat.

TG Sales & Lettings use our skill, experience and local knowledge to place your property on the market at the right price. If we can help you, give us a call on 01452 300822 or email rachel@tgres.co.uk and we will be delighted to help.

 

Here’s a little known fact: Many people in the UK regard a house move as one of the most stressful life experiences that they’ll ever endure and with so many house sales due to complete shortly let us help get you organised!

Yes, while owning a new home is exciting, the process of moving itself is not something that most people look forward to. And as most people will move multiple times throughout their life, the TG Sales & Lettings team are here to arm you with the most useful tips you will need to organise yourself ahead of your next moving day.

We are also here to tell you that it does not need to be all that bad! Get yourself adequately organised for moving day, and you will save yourself much of the associated stress.

Here are our essential tips to help you get organised for moving day:

Start the packing process as early as possible.

Let’s face it, packing can be one of the most tedious things about moving home. But, it’s like facing any chore that you dread, but that needs to be done – it’s best tackled first! The longer you procrastinate about packing, the more anxiety and stress the entire moving process will cause you.

Set yourself a timing plan for packing that’s realistic. Trust us, you’ll feel a lot calmer and more prepared if all your packing is behind you by the time moving week arrives.

For an average-size four-bedroom home, we recommend starting the packing process about six weeks before the big move day. Yes, that far in advance! This way, you’ll have enough time to properly sort through your belongings, get rid of any clutter and give away any items you don’t want to take with you.

Become label-obsessed.

No, we’re not talking about clothing labels. We are talking about good old sticky labels that you can slap onto your packed boxes. Label your boxes effectively so you can ensure that your removal company will be able to transport your things as quickly as possible and to the correct room.

So, what exactly does effective labelling involve? Well, just make sure that your writing is legible, and include a short description of what the box contains. Label all sides of the box so it can be seen from any angle. Finally, take your label game up a notch by using colour coded labels. Pick a different colour for each room, and you’ll pretty much guarantee that everything will end up in the right room.  Oh, and your movers will thank you for it.

 

 

Save your old (and new) floors from damage with scraps of old cardboard.

Yes, you read that right. Part of the anxiety of moving day is related to the potential damage that your home (both old and new) could face as part of the move. Get rid of that stress by taking some preventative action.

This is a lot simpler than it sounds. Simply lay down flat cardboard strips (using old cardboard boxes) and avoid dents and scuff marks caused by all the hustle and bustle of moving day. Although if you’ve hired professional movers, you will have the peace of mind that they’ll be trained on how to move without causing any damage.

Hire professional movers for the big day.

The number one way to ensure that you’re super organised for moving day is to hire a professional moving company.

Although many people attempt to move without professional help, this can be a much more stressful and challenging experience. Movers can ensure that all your belongings get to your new home in one piece, and in much less time!

Not sure where to find someone? Ask us for recommendations on local professional moving companies in Gloucestershire and get some quotes from a few companies in advance of the move. We recommend booking as soon as you know your move-in date, as popular firms can get quite booked up over peak periods.

Take some time off work for a day or two.

Try to take a couple of days off work around your big moving day. This gives you a little extra time for that inevitable last-minute packing and settling in at the other end.

Searching for a home in Gloucestershire?

Now that you’re equipped with all the tips you need to help you manage your next moving day let us help you find a home that’s worth any moving stress. At TG Sales & Lettings we have years of experience matching both buyers and renters with their perfect home. Get in touch today on 01452 300822 and speak with a member of our team to kick off your house hunt.

 

When you’re renting out your property in Gloucestershire, you want to get things right. After all, it’s your property, and you want to ensure it is going to be looked after and that the rent is going to be paid. It’s a business, and you don’t want any interruptions to occupancy.

So, to help you, our experienced team at TG Sales & Lettings have come up with eight questions that you should ask a prospective tenant before agreeing to rent your property to them.

1. When are they able to move in?

You want continuity of occupancy as it makes sense from a financial and security point of view. If one prospective tenant can’t move in for a few months, but another can, this will help you make a decision on who to let your property to. You need to be on top of your game when it comes to efficiency. If a prospective tenant can move in immediately, but you haven’t got the gas safety or electrical safety inspections done, this will cause issues.

2. Do their finances stack up?

You don’t want timewasters looking at your rental property. Respectfully ask if they are aware of the rent amount and whether they fully expect to be able to pay it on time, and on the right dates. There’s the deposit too, so make sure they know what’s expected. Your lettings agent will ensure thorough financial checks are carried out.

3. How long do they think they will want to live in the property?

This is a good question. You don’t want to be going through the process of finding a tenant every six months. Likewise, some people will be looking for long-term tenancies, so see who expects to be in a property for an extended period. The contract length could be advantageous for both parties. Be prepared to be flexible.

4. Do they have pets?

Some landlords don’t mind pets, and this may be you. However, pets are also a big no-no for some landlords. If you don’t want to accept tenants with animals, you must be sure that having a pet is not on their future agenda. Similarly, if you don’t mind pets, you need to make sure the contract stipulates what sort of pet, if any, is allowed. If you do allow a pet, your agreement should make it clear that any damages caused by the pet must be rectified by the tenant at their cost.

5. What would their current landlord say about them?

References are crucial! When you or your lettings agent speak with your prospective tenant, you hope you will get a genuine answer. References will clarify this though. Listen to your prospective tenants’ responses with a critical ear as not everyone will be honest!

6. Why are they moving?

Again, you might not always get a genuine reply, but the answer will give you an indication as to what sort of tenant they might be. This question can also be a good ice breaker and will start the conversation.

7. What sort of lifestyle do they lead?

This is a tricky question to ask, but useful nonetheless. You’ll get a feel for the sort of people your prospective tenants are. If they appear to be young, 24-hour party people, you should consider whether your property and location are right for them.

8. What other properties have they looked at in Gloucestershire

This is a question that can be asked either at the start of a conversation or at the end. You’re trying to ascertain whether they are serious about moving to the area, to your property or if they are just ‘tyre kickers’. They might also say that your property is the only place for them, which is great if everything stacks up financially.

Remember, you don’t have to have a definitive list of questions and formally run through them. These questions can be wound into your regular conversation!

If you’re unsure of what to ask prospective tenants, please get in touch with us on 01452 300822. We have been offering a professional lettings and management service for many years and can guide you. After all, we are the experts in the Gloucestershire area for lettings.

 

In these days of easy access to drool-worthy home decor inspo on Pinterest and Instagram, we’ve all suffered a case of design envy. Although these design ideas aren’t unachievable, many people get put off by the mere thought of how much redecorating their own home could actually cost.

As your local Gloucestershire estate agent, we see stunning homes in Gloucestershire every day and we’re here to tell you that it’s very much possible to create an envy-inducing home of your own without breaking the bank!

You just need to get a little creative and take a few risks along the way.

Read on for our top 6 home decor ideas that are easy on your wallet:

 

1. First, kick off with a deep clean

We know, cleaning up isn’t exactly a decorating tip. But, hear us out here. Our experienced team of negotiators at TG Sales & Lettings are all in agreement that a good decluttering session is the first step to transforming any room. By getting rid of all your clutter, you’ll get a much better idea of the space you’re working with. It also makes it easier to think of a coherent decor scheme, and you could get rid of some of the more dated design elements along the way.

The best part? Cleaning and decluttering don’t cost a thing.

 

2. Invest in some mirrors to open up a room

What’s one of the easiest ways to ‘add space’ to a room? Simply hang some mirrors.

Mirrors create the illusion of space by reflecting light, making smaller rooms instantly appear more spacious. Invest in some unique mirrors with interesting effects, and you’ll be adding style, light and space in one go.

And you don’t need to invest a lot. There are some great charity shops in Gloucestershire  so head on over and upcycle old mirrors with a new frame or fresh paint.

 

3. Add some natural green

Amp up the style and the feel-good vibe of your home in Gloucestershire by adding some cute indoor plants in quirky pots. Not only will they add some colour, but plants will also purify the air, and they’re known to boost your mood.

Plants aren’t pricey and can last for ages with care and love. Pop to the garden centre and buy local or check out online plant stores.

We’re not all green-fingered, so if you are worried about accidentally killing your plants, choose low-maintenance options such as jade or aloe vera that practically take care of themselves. Invest in a couple of statement pieces for the main living areas and dot smaller potted succulents around your bedroom and kitchen. Even your bathroom will benefit from a bit of green.

 

4. Style your bed

Yes, your bed is primarily for sleeping and lounging, and the occasional Netflix binge, but it can also be a statement style piece for your bedroom. And dressing it up won’t break the bank.

Get yourself some gorgeous new bed linen and an assortment of quirky cushions. Add a season-appropriate throw – furry for winter and bright/light for summer – to add a more cosy style.

If you’re feeling creative and don’t have a headboard, consider painting one on the blank wall behind your bed. It’s cheap and can easily be painted over whenever you fancy a change.

 

5. Search for bargains online

Google makes bargain hunting a lot easier than it’s ever been, and home decor is a category where you can find some of the best bargains online. You’ll be surprised at just how many gems you can find on sites like eBay and Gumtree. If you’re prepared to go for second-hand or ‘pre-loved’ items, you can get your hands on quality furniture pieces for a lot less.

If you’re prepared to drive over for pickups, some online sellers are even willing to give away large items for free.

 

6. Give your walls a fresh lick of paint

Despite what some people may assume, you don’t need to be a DIY expert to paint a room in your home. Give any room a quick spruce with a fresh lick of paint. Or be bold and transform any space by painting a statement wall. This involves painting just one wall with a different colour or design, so it becomes the focal point of the room. You can also use wallpaper to create an interesting statement wall.

A tin of paint or a roll of wallpaper is not expensive, and it’ll take just a few hours to make a significant style impact.

Once you’ve spruced up your property in Gloucestershire, give us a call at TG Sales & Lettings and we’ll be delighted to give you a free valuation. We can be reached at rachel@tgres.co.uk or 01452 300822.

If you’re considering becoming a landlord, there are many elements to consider and understand before you purchase a property. The process of buying a buy-to-let property differs compared to buying a residential property that you will live in yourself, so it’s good to know what exactly to expect. Of course, it’s a long-term investment that shouldn’t be made in haste, so if you’re reading this, you are probably looking for the right kind of information.

Our team at TG Sales & Lettings are experts in buy-to-let advice, so here is our straight forward guide to purchasing a buy-to-let property in Gloucestershire.

What is buy-to-let?

First things first, the basics: buy-to-let is a property that is specifically purchased with the intention to rent it out to tenants. It’s an investment property that can generate a monthly income, as long as the rent being charged is higher than the monthly buy-to-let mortgage payments.

A buy-to-let mortgage is different to a residential mortgage, and if you can’t afford to simply buy the property outright, you will need to apply for one. When applying for a standard mortgage, your income is taken into consideration, whereas with a buy-to-let loan, the lender considers the potential rental income as your primary income source, and considers your personal income as secondary. The interest rates tend to be lower, but they have larger upfront fees, so keep that in mind. Moreover, deposits on buy-to-let mortgages are also typically larger than the deposit needed for a standard mortgage, so expect to put down at least 25% more than you normally would.

What kind of buy-to-let property should you buy?

The right property is important and can include factors such as the location in proximity to amenities and transport, as well as the neighbourhood and the demand in the area. Much like when you’re searching for your own place to live, you should ensure you do adequate research into the area you want your buy-to-let property to be located in.

Consider what kind of tenant you want to target and include that in your research. If you’re trying to rent to families, your best bet is to find a property in the suburbs close to good schools. If you want to rent to students, a property near a university and good but cheap restaurants and nightlife is key. Keep in mind, the type of tenants you have renting from you can affect your mortgage, as many lenders have restrictions on student rentals, for example.

Do you need buy-to-let insurance?

The short answer is yes; you should have buy-to-let insurance (also known as landlord insurance). It gives you coverage for the building and the contents inside and any landlord liabilities.

Building insurance is often required by your mortgage lender in order to secure a loan and will compensate you if your property is destroyed or damaged. This will cover the repairs or rebuilding costs so you don’t have to pay huge expenses out of pocket.

 

Contents insurance will cover any furniture inside the property. It’s a smart idea to get contents insurance even if your buy-to-let property is unfurnished because you can choose what level of cover you require, and it can protect any curtains, carpets, and other furnishings that essentially come with your property between tenants. If you choose to rent your property unfurnished, your tenants will be responsible for their own contents insurance when they move in.

Landlord liability is mostly your choice, but if you’re renting to students, for example, there may be a minimum level required. This covers you for any injuries or deaths of any tenants or visitors in your property.

Do you need to use a letting agent?

This answer is dependent on the budget you’re working with and the level of involvement you wish to have with your buy-to-let property. If you want to be a very hands-on landlord, you may not want to go through a letting agent or agency, but if you would rather take a more hands-off approach, it is a good idea to enlist the help of a professional, experienced lettings agency.

Letting agents like us will help you carry out credit checks on your potential tenants, help you come up with a letting contract, chase late rental payments for you, help with any maintenance on site that needs to be done, and assist with mandatory safety and efficiency checks for gas and energy.

The fees to work with a letting agent typically include paying an ongoing fee to manage the property which varies, so it’s always best to speak with your chosen letting agent to get a complete idea of costs .

Generally, utilising the services of a letting agent can take a big burden off your shoulders if you are a budding landlord!

For professional advice on purchasing a buy-to-let property in Gloucestershire, contact our expert team at TG Sales & Lettings on 01452 300822 or email rachel@tgres.co.uk

It’s probably fair to say that if your bathroom is rocking an avocado or peach suite against a backdrop of lurid pink tiles, then it’s pretty out-dated and, unfortunately if you are selling your home in Gloucestershire, this can stop potential buyers in their tracks.

Most of us like a modern touch within our homes – after all this is the 21st century – and it’s nice to feel like you are actually living in the correct century, so even if you are not looking to sell your property in Gloucestershire, but are perhaps in the process of purchasing a new home, renovating your bathroom will allow you to get creative and achieve a fresh new look.

Here are four major benefits a bathroom remodel can offer:

 

1. You will see an increase in the value of your home

Even a small remodel such as replacing the suite and adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls will add value to your property. The majority of properties that undergo renovations in important areas such as the bathroom (or kitchen) end up seeing an increase in value as it improves the appearance and appeal of your home overall.

 

2. You will save money

If you are renovating due to the need to replace damaged, faulty or old bathroom furniture such as a leaking toilet, rusty radiator or inefficient boiler then you will save money by replacing these with more energy-efficient solutions.

 

3. You will feel more relaxed

It’s not only your home that will benefit. Your bathroom will become your oasis of calm. If you are used to attempting to chill out in an unattractive, messy, old-fashioned bathroom in various shades of pastel, imagine how it will feel to unwind in a brand new warm and modern space decorated in soothing colours designed to help you fully relax. Your new bathroom can give you that experience.

 

4. You will reduce clutter

A lack of storage invites clutter, so your renovation should involve incorporating plenty of storage solutions. A tidy bathroom is a tidy mind!

If you’re planning to sell your home in Gloucestershire soon, remember that buyers will always appreciate an updated and clean bathroom and you may end up achieving a higher offer for your property too!

For friendly, expert property advice, contact TG Sales & Lettings on 01452 300822 or call in to our office in Gloucestershire for a chat.