Housing Market Filled With Vigour & Optimism

With the instability and uncertainty of the election period behind us and a stable coalition government now in place, the housing market is filled with a renewed sense of optimism and vigour.

One of the first acts of the new government, and the catalyst for this vitality, was to abolish HIPS. This was a real shot in the arm for the housing market and just what was needed to encourage potential sellers to have a go at selling their property without having to pay out a large upfront fee.

Since then, we have had the emergency budget and are pleased to report that the slight pre-budget lull has turned into a post-budget, post-HIPS, post- election surge of new interest!

This surge is reflected in the fact that our offices, both town centre and East Ipswich are busier than ever and new enquiries are coming in thick and fast over the phone and from our web site.

Property prices are increasing once more so now is the time to get on to the property ladder or to move a few rungs further up it. Vendors can take steps to make the most of their properties to achieve the best prices. These could include de-cluttering, finishing off any annoying jobs and tidying the gardens to increase that all important curb appeal.

Buyers can look to securing some good mortgage deals at the moment as the banks continue to loosen their lending criteria. And remember, if you can get into a strong position, before you make an offer, then there are still deals to be had! Once you have secured a buyer, or if you have no independent sale, then your estate agency can negotiate you a good deal on your new home – saving you money on the purchase of your next property.

All in all, this has been a generally good budget and one designed to bolster the economy in many ways. Stamp duty rates remained the same as they were set to in March 2010, which is good news for first time buyers. VAT is set to increase to 20% in January 2011, so if you are serious about moving, act now, to avoid increase VAT charges on your moving fees.

Sell your Ipswich property – click here to arrange a free valuation.