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Capital’s Summertime Ball with Barclaycard | 15th June 2025

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Spring clean, fresh start: Simple ways to boost kerb appeal

The first step to boosting your property’s kerb appeal is to tidy up the garden. Mow the lawn, trim any overgrown hedges, and weed flower beds. If you have a driveway, make sure it’s free of clutter and any moss or weeds that might have appeared over the winter. Adding a few seasonal plants or fresh flowers can add a splash of colour to your front garden and create an inviting atmosphere for potential buyers or guests.

Refresh your front door
Your front door is one of the first things people see, so make it count. A fresh coat of paint in a welcoming colour can instantly transform its look. Bright and bold colours like navy, red, or even pastel shades can make a statement, while classic neutrals like grey or white can offer a timeless, polished look. Don’t forget to replace or clean your door hardware—things like handles, knockers, and house numbers make a big difference.

Upgrade outdoor lighting
Good lighting can make your property shine, literally. A couple of stylish outdoor lights on either side of the front door or along the pathway can add charm and help highlight your home’s best features. Solar-powered lights are an easy, low-maintenance option that doesn’t require wiring, and they can work wonders in adding a welcoming glow during evening viewings or after dark.

Paint the fences and gates
Fences and gates often show signs of wear and tear, especially after a long winter. A fresh coat of paint or wood treatment can instantly make your outdoor space look more cared for. You can choose a natural wood finish for a rustic look or go with classic white or grey for a more polished finish. It’s a simple yet effective way to give your property an immediate facelift.

Clean windows and fix any exterior damage
Dirty windows can give an impression of neglect, so give them a good clean inside and out. You might even want to consider power washing your exterior if it’s looking weathered—removing dirt, moss, and grime can really make a difference. While you're at it, take a quick walk around the exterior and check for any minor repairs, such as loose guttering or broken tiles. Fixing these issues before they become larger problems will not only boost your kerb appeal but also show that you’re attentive and take good care of your home.

Add welcoming touches
A few little additions can make a big impact when it comes to creating a welcoming feel. A stylish doormat, some hanging baskets with colourful plants, or a couple of potted plants near the front door can make the space feel warm and inviting. Even simple things like a wreath or a decorative sign with your house number can add a personal, homely touch.

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Best home features for summer – from shaded gardens to sunrooms

Shaded Gardens: Cool, Comfortable Outdoor Spaces

As the summer heat kicks in, a shaded garden can become your private oasis. Whether it’s a pergola, a mature tree, or a retractable awning, shaded areas make outdoor spaces more enjoyable, providing a cool retreat from the sun. Consider adding comfortable seating like hammocks or lounge chairs, perfect for relaxing with a cold drink. Incorporating plants that thrive in shaded conditions, such as ferns or hostas, can also enhance the atmosphere, making your garden feel like a tropical hideaway.

Sunrooms: Year-Round Sunlight, Summer-Ready Comfort

Sunrooms are an increasingly popular feature for homeowners who want to soak up the summer sun without dealing with the heat. These versatile spaces provide ample natural light and can be used as a dining area, reading nook, or a space for enjoying the outdoors in comfort. Equipped with large windows, sunrooms allow you to enjoy the changing seasons while being shielded from summer storms or extreme temperatures. For a more seasonal touch, add breezy curtains, airy furniture, and potted plants to bring the outside in.

Outdoor Kitchens: Perfect for Summer Dining and Entertaining

Nothing says summer like dining alfresco, and an outdoor kitchen is the perfect setup for hosting family gatherings or casual dinners. From BBQ grills to pizza ovens and outdoor sinks, these kitchens can elevate your cooking game. Set up a bar area or dining table nearby for easy transitions from cooking to enjoying the meal. With the right weatherproof materials, your outdoor kitchen can be a space that serves you long beyond the summer months.

Patio and Decking: Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space

A well-designed patio or decking area is essential for those long summer evenings. Choose durable materials like composite decking, stone, or tiles that can withstand the elements while maintaining a clean, stylish look. Add a comfortable seating area with outdoor sofas, chairs, and cushions for maximum relaxation. If you enjoy entertaining, consider a fire pit or outdoor lighting for those magical summer nights.

Air Conditioning and Smart Thermostats: Beat the Heat Inside

While you’re enjoying the outdoors, don’t forget about making your indoor spaces summer-ready. Air conditioning is essential for keeping cool, but smart thermostats can help you manage energy consumption. Set your system to keep your home at the perfect temperature without the worry of excessive energy bills. These thermostats can also be controlled remotely, so you can ensure your home is comfortable when you return from a day outside in the sun.

Ceiling Fans: A Simple, Stylish Cooling Solution

For an affordable and elegant solution to keeping your home cool, ceiling fans are a great option. Install them in living rooms, bedrooms, or outdoor patios for a breeze that makes the heat more bearable. Ceiling fans can be an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioning, and many come with a variety of designs that add character to any room. For added versatility, look for fans that can reverse airflow, providing warmth during cooler evenings or mornings.

Outdoor Showers: Refresh After a Hot Day

If you have a pool or love spending time outdoors, an outdoor shower can be a refreshing feature for your home. Rinse off after a swim, a run, or just a day spent in the garden. Not only is it practical, but an outdoor shower can add a spa-like atmosphere to your space. With the right setup, you can feel like you're vacationing at a luxury resort every time you step outside.

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The great move out: Why more Londoners are eyeing greener pastures

The pandemic has changed the way many of us think about home. For Londoners, it sparked a desire for more space, both inside and outside the home. With remote work now a permanent fixture for many, city life no longer holds the same allure it once did. The busy streets, the constant rush, and the high cost of living are pushing more people to seek out quieter, more peaceful surroundings. The lure of suburban and rural areas, with their larger homes and more affordable prices, is becoming irresistible.

According to recent trends, many city dwellers are trading in their tiny apartments for family-sized homes with gardens. The quest for a balance between work and life has never been more important, and these relocations are all about making that possible. Whether it’s a charming village in the countryside or a quiet town on the outskirts of a major city, buyers are increasingly prioritising space to live, work, and grow.

Affordable living: The price of a peaceful life
One of the most significant factors driving this trend is affordability. The cost of housing in London continues to rise, making it difficult for many to take that step onto the property ladder. But beyond just affordability, many suburban and rural areas offer much more for the same money. Larger homes, more outdoor space, and a slower pace of life make these regions particularly appealing. With homebuyers realising they can get more for their money by moving out of the capital, the interest in these areas is booming.

In addition, the increase in remote working options has allowed buyers to reconsider what they need in a property. No longer restricted by the need for a short commute to work, more and more people are able to choose where they live based on lifestyle preferences rather than proximity to office buildings. For many, this means moving to areas where they can afford bigger homes, have more greenery, and enjoy a better quality of life.

The charm of the suburbs: A lifestyle upgrade
For many Londoners, leaving the hustle and bustle of the city doesn’t mean sacrificing convenience. Many of the most sought-after suburban areas are well-connected to the capital, allowing for easy access to work or social activities when needed. This balance of rural charm and urban accessibility is exactly what draws people to towns like Guildford, Richmond, or even further out to the Cotswolds. These locations offer peaceful living, while still providing excellent transport links into London for occasional office visits or weekends in the city.

In addition to the benefits of more space and a quieter environment, many of these areas are also surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, with access to parks, woodlands, and scenic walking trails. For city dwellers tired of the concrete jungle, the promise of open fields and fresh air is an irresistible draw.

Looking ahead: A lasting trend
As we move further into 2025, it seems the great move out is more than just a passing trend. The shift in priorities from city living to suburban and rural areas is likely to continue, with many people realising the benefits of a quieter, more spacious lifestyle. Whether it’s a growing family seeking more room to stretch out, or an individual looking for peace and greenery, the appeal of greener pastures outside London is undeniable.

Find your ideal home in the suburbs today

Regulations roundup: What landlords need to know this season

1. Renters’ Rights Bill: Major reforms ahead

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to overhaul the private rented sector in England. Key provisions include:

Abolition of Section 21 evictions: Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a reason.

Introduction of open-ended tenancies: Fixed-term tenancies will be replaced with periodic contracts, offering tenants greater stability.

Enhanced rent increase controls: Landlords will face stricter regulations on how and when they can increase rent.

New grounds for eviction: Specific, justified reasons will be required for eviction, such as the landlord needing the property for personal use.

Mandatory pet policies: Tenants will have the right to request pets, and landlords must provide a valid reason if they refuse.

Decent Homes Standard enforcement: Private rented homes must meet minimum quality standards, including adequate heating and ventilation.

These changes are expected to be implemented by late summer 2025.

2. Right to Rent checks: Updated guidance

As of February 12, 2025, landlords must adhere to the latest Right to Rent guidelines:

Document verification: Acceptable documents now include short and long birth certificates when presented alongside a second official document.

Online checks: For tenants with time-limited immigration status, landlords should use the Home Office online service to verify their right to rent.

Ukrainian nationals: The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme opened on February 4, 2025, providing updated documentation for affected tenants.

These updates aim to simplify the verification process and ensure compliance.

3. Financial sanctions reporting obligations

Starting May 14, 2025, letting agents and landlords must comply with new financial sanctions reporting requirements under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018:

Due diligence: Conduct thorough checks to ensure tenants and buyers are not subject to financial sanctions.

Reporting: If a potential tenant is found to be under sanctions, landlords must report this to the Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI).

Failure to comply could result in significant penalties.

4. Leasehold Right to Manage reforms

Effective March 3, 2025, leaseholders have increased rights to manage their properties:

Non-residential limit: The threshold for non-residential usage in a building has increased from 25% to 50%, allowing more leaseholders to exercise their right to manage.

Cost limitations: New regulations limit the costs leaseholders can be made liable for during the right to manage process.

These reforms aim to empower leaseholders and reduce costs associated with property management.

5. Upcoming EPC consultation

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is set to consult on raising the minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) standards for rental properties

Proposed changes: Discussions will focus on increasing the minimum EPC rating for rental properties, potentially affecting landlords' obligations.

Consultation timeline: Details of the consultation process and potential implementation dates will be announced in the coming months.

Landlords should stay informed about these developments to ensure compliance.