As we welcome the new year, the real estate landscape in and around Billericay, Essex, is poised for an optimistic shift. Recent insights from HMRC reveal a dip in property transactions in 2023, presenting a narrative of cautious adaptation rather than a decline in housing prices. At Ashton White Estate Agents, we explore these market dynamics and anticipate a surge in activity for the next six months,...

In recent months, the housing market has exhibited signs of stability, providing a glimmer of hope for both buyers and sellers. According to Nationwide, house prices experienced a modest 0.2% growth in November, marking the third consecutive month of positive movement. The national annual fall now stands at -2.0%, a figure that hints at a more balanced market. These changes have been influenced by...

The decision made on the 2nd of November 2023 to maintain the Bank Rate at 5.25% has brought a sense of stability to the UK housing market, igniting optimism for both vendors and buyers. At Ashton Whites, we are committed to supporting our clients in this exciting period of stability. For vendors, it is a positive signal, encouraging them to list their properties confidently. And for buyers, it is an...

Owning a home is a dream cherished by many, but for first-time buyers, it can often seem like an unattainable goal in today's real estate market. The soaring property prices, coupled with the requirement for substantial down payments, can deter many from leaping into homeownership. However, there's a solution that's gaining popularity and making homeownership more accessible – Shared...

Buying a home for the first time is an exciting yet challenging endeavour, particularly in the context of the UK's dynamic property market. Over the past five years, there has been a noticeable change in the average deposit required by first-time homebuyers. This article explores these changes and provides insights into what first-time homeowners can expect in the current climate. The Shift in Average...

When it comes to buying a home, the old adage "location, location, location" often rings true. But how much weight should you really place on the property's location versus the house itself? To help you understand how this can impact your home-buying experience we delve into the importance of both factors and their impact on house prices. The Importance of Location Location is often considered the...

Buying a new home can be an exciting and life-changing decision, but it can also be quite challenging. The process involves various fees, from legal fees to stamp duty and ongoing payments. As a first-time buyer or homeowner, you must prepare financially for these fees to ensure a smooth and stress-free purchase. Upfront Costs Mortgage Fees: Choosing a mortgage lender comes with different...

House prices have been a hot topic in the UK for many years. With inflation, Brexit uncertainty, and the current pandemic, it's no surprise that people are curious about the current state of house prices. So, are UK house prices falling in July 2023? According to recent reports, UK house prices have risen by 1.2% in the last year. While this is a drop from last month's 1.9%, it's still a positive sign...

Moving to a new home can be a daunting task. With all the excitement that comes with a new space, it's easy to overlook some of the essential items you need to purchase before settling in. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or you're moving into a new house, it's important to have a new home checklist to make sure you're not forgetting anything. To help you have a streamlined experience when moving in...

When you become a new homeowner, there can be an overwhelming feeling of responsibility and excitement that comes with it. It's natural to want your house to feel like home as soon as possible, but how do you make that happen? With the right approach, you can transform your new space into a cosy oasis in no time. Decorate with personal items There's no place like home. And when it comes to...