12 Jun Make your dream home your reality this summer

As we approach the end of the first half of the year, it’s the perfect time to make your house dreams come true. If you’ve been considering selling and moving this year but haven’t made much progress, don’t worry! As Virginia Water’s leading estate agents, we know that getting started can be hard, but it’s worth it and we’re here to help you along the way.

Selling your home in summer can be advantageous due to the nicer weather, which can enhance your home’s curb appeal and create a more inviting atmosphere for potential buyers. With longer daylight hours, we can showcase your property in its best light, both inside and out.

If you’re considering moving, renting, or buying, take some time to explore our available properties in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. For any questions, visit our award-winning website or contact us on 01344 843000 and email us.

Here are our top tips to achieve your house dreams this summer…

Take the leap – put your home on the market

If you’ve been thinking of selling, whether because you’ve outgrown your home or it no longer excites you, it’s time to put the wheels in motion. We’re pretty confident you won’t regret this step once you set eyes on your next dream home.

Call or email our team today to book in for a valuation of your property. We can arrange professional photography and videography, write enticing property descriptions, provide a platform to showcase your home and contact a pool of buyers waiting for homes just like yours. Listing your home in June attracts potential buyers looking to move before the new school year, or those that have the desire to be moving in the warmer months, many people are with us when we say, summer is a great time to move!

Find your dream home

Make a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves, and use online platforms, local listings, and our assistance to narrow down your options (It can be overwhelming if you don’t have an idea of what you’re looking for). Stay proactive by checking new listings and scheduling viewings promptly and let us know what you’re looking for, we may have a discreet sale waiting for a buyer like you. If you’ve already found your dream home, we’ll assist you with negotiations and legal matters.

If you’re unsure about your budget for your next home, we can assist you in exploring your options and ensure you’re looking at properties you can afford. If you haven’t yet listed your current home but you’ve started your search, now is an opportune moment to receive a complimentary appraisal from our expert team. This evaluation will provide insight into your home’s current market value and expected sale price, helping you to budget for your next home effectively.

Plan ahead

Moving is a complex process requiring careful planning. Create a timeline with realistic goals for each stage. Consider a detailed checklist with deadlines for tasks such as finding a new property, packing, arranging utilities, and booking time off work to move. Planning and goal setting can encourage you to make timely decisions and reduce last minute stress.

Declutter and organise

Use this time as an opportunity to declutter your belongings, you could start this weekend! Take a systematic approach to decluttering by tackling one room at a time. Start with areas such as wardrobes, cabinets, and storage spaces, and sort items into categories such as keep, donate, sell, or recycle/discard. Utilise storage solutions like baskets and boxes (things you can easily move as they are!). Remember, less clutter means less to pack and unpack in your new home and sunny days make car-booting much easier, so now is a good time to think about decluttering.

Ensure your garden is vibrant and inviting

A well-maintained garden can significantly boost your home’s appeal to potential buyers. Summer is a time when people are excited by the potential of outdoor space. If you are booking in viewings it is good to keep on top of your garden maintenance. Start by mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and removing any weeds. Plant colourful flowers and consider adding decorative elements like garden furniture, fairy lights, or a water feature. A welcoming garden provides a great first impression and helps buyers imagine themselves enjoying the outdoor space. If you don’t have the time it may be worth investing in a gardener – it might be an investment that helps secure the sale!

Consider staging your home

Did you know we can arrange staging for your home? Staging can significantly enhance its appeal and attract potential buyers. We can supplement your existing furnishings or completely furnish your home for viewings. A well-staged home helps buyers imagine it as their own, creating a more inviting and attractive atmosphere.

Get your finances in order

If you need a mortgage, consult a financial adviser early on to assess your situation, explore options, and determine your budget. In addition to mortgage pre-approval, consider exploring financing options and incentives available. Research government schemes or grants that may apply to your situation and consult with a financial adviser to optimise your budget. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as moving expenses, and potential renovations or repairs.

Seek professional help for legalities

A reputable solicitor or conveyancer can guide you through the legal aspects of buying or selling a property. They will review contracts, conduct searches, and ensure all paperwork is completed accurately and on time. Establish clear communication with your legal representative and address any concerns or questions promptly to avoid delays or misunderstandings. We can always recommend third parties that we know and trust.

Create a moving day checklist

To ensure a smooth transition between homes, create a comprehensive moving day checklist. In your moving timeline, allocate specific dates for tasks such as contacting utility companies, arranging for moving services, and transferring subscriptions or memberships. Setting reminders and deadlines helps you to stay on track and reduces last-minute stress. Consider creating a dedicated moving binder or digital folder to keep all important documents and contacts organised.

Pack efficiently and label boxes

Take advantage of packing hacks and techniques to streamline the process and maximise space. Consider using cardboard wardrobe boxes for your hanging clothes, and utilise blankets, towels, and linens as padding for fragile items. Always pack heavier items at the bottom of boxes with lighter items on top. Label each box clearly with its contents, destination room, and any special handling instructions to expedite unpacking and ensure items are placed in the correct location in your new home.

Get multiple removal quotes

When requesting removal quotes, provide detailed information about your moving requirements, including the size of your household, any special items or fragile belongings, and access points at both your current and new locations. Ask about insurance coverage, liability protection, and cancellation policies to ensure you’re fully informed before making a decision.

Explore your new area before you move

Take advantage of online resources and community forums to connect with current residents, gather insider tips about your new area or to find service providers for things you might need help with when you move in. Exploring parks, trails, and recreational facilities can also help you envision your lifestyle in the area and discover hidden gems. If you’re moving to Virginia Water or the surrounding areas for the first time, we can assist you with our expert knowledge of the area.

Virginia Water is renowned for its stunning landscapes, recreational facilities, and vibrant welcoming community. The area boasts the beautiful Virginia Water Lake, where you can enjoy picturesque walks and picnics. The Wentworth Club offers world-class golfing facilities, and the nearby Windsor Great Park provides vast green spaces for outdoor activities, you could even have lunch at the Polo Club. The village also hosts various events and markets throughout the year. If you’re over this way and want some ideas, or you have some time around visiting us at the office, we are always on hand to provide you with exciting things you can do in the area, feel free to ask.

Stay flexible

As you navigate the moving process, maintain a positive mind-set and adaptability to unforeseen circumstances. Embrace changes or adjustments to your plans with resilience and resourcefulness, knowing that challenges are opportunities for growth. Lean on your support network of family, friends, and professionals for guidance and encouragement, and celebrate each milestone and achievement along the way. Remember, flexibility and a can-do attitude are essential for a smooth successful move, and before you know it, you’ll be settled in your dream home this summer!

If you’re thinking of moving, renting or buying, and want some home inspiration take some time to browse our properties available in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions, you can also visit our award-winning website or call us on 01344 843000 and email us. We’re here to provide valuable guidance throughout your journey. Contact us today for any advice you require. Happy moving!

GET IN TOUCH

If you are thinking of moving in or out of the area, make sure you take a look at our amazing catalogue of properties for sale in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to speak to someone about properties to let in Virginia Water, a member of our expert team would be happy to help. You can call us on 01344 843000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.