It’s been a great start to 2021, with sales agreed in February outweighing the number of sales agreed in the preceding month of January, and we anticipate seeing this momentum carrying on. We continue to operate as per the Government’s Covid 19 guidance as safely as possible.
There is a shortage of properties coming to the market which means there is a high level of demand for recently launched properties. The number of sales that are with solicitors is also higher than this time last year, with many purchasers looking to complete ahead of the end of the stamp duty holiday at the end of March. However, whilst not yet confirmed, it is anticipated that there may be a limited extension to the stamp duty holiday, to the end of June. We are still agreeing sales, with vendors and purchasers wishing to move ahead of that deadline. Our teams are working relentlessly to make sure that every transaction is nurtured and moved along to give sales the best opportunity to exchange and complete ahead of the deadline or on schedule, as far as possible.
With plenty of demand for village and rural property we are encouraging those who are thinking of selling to place their home on the market now, due to the current market’s strength. We would like to put you in the driving seat to make the most of the strong interest level. We have various marketing options, from full marketing and exposure through to private listings – yes, sales are being agreed both on and off market.
Our work has altered a little in recent times as we have many buyers and sellers in a “chicken and egg” situation. We hear it daily. “We would sell, but we can’t find our next property.” The current Covid 19 guidance states that you can only view a property if you are in a position to make an offer. In many cases purchasers need to sell their own home before they can offer and therefore view. In this situation we understand that it takes a leap of faith but you will be well supported by the Armitstead Barnett team. Our job is to manage expectations on timescales of both the buyer and seller, with the aim to facilitate a move. Sometimes that means slowing things down, or speeding things up to meet your needs. We are here to guide you every step of the way.