July 2020

Government’s Eat out to Help out scheme

With the announcement of the Government's Eat out to Help out scheme, we decided to take a quick look at what establishments in Rayleigh and Hockley are available. So what is it? Well, basically if you use one of the registered companies for your meals on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday you will receive a discount of up to £10 per person (including vat)... this includes meals and drinks that are...

Evictions Update for Landlords in Rayleigh & Hockley

In this three-minute read, we look at the latest news on the evictions front and the moves needed to avoid legal action. It takes flexibility, compassion, and stamina to navigate the eviction process at the best of times. But, due to Covid-19, it takes more careful and considered steps than ever to repossess a property. Last week, Housing Minister Christopher Pincher gave more detail about how the...

Opportunity is knocking in Rayleigh & Hockley – Will you be opening the door?

In this two-minute read, we discover why the opportunity clocks are ticking for people wanting to make the most of the Stamp Duty holiday. “Life is a Game” is a quote attributed to Mother Teresa, but it could be easily applied to property. And as with all games, there are winners and losers when it comes to selling a home. Timing always plays a part in how successful you are, as does having a...

How “No DSS” ruling impacts landlords in Rayleigh & Hockley.

In this three-minute read, we look at what a recent court ruling that found a “no DSS” letting ban was unlawful means for landlords. A disabled mum-of-two emerged victorious from York County Court earlier this month after winning a case that sent ripples through the lettings industry. The woman, who was on housing benefit, had been blocked from renting a property by a blanket “no DSS”...

Help local businesses by dining out in Rayleigh & Hockley

In this three-minute read, we look at how the Eat Out to Help Out scheme can give struggling restaurants and cafes in Rayleigh & Hockley a much needed boost. We’ve been asked to do many things in recent months: stay home, home school, wear masks, keep apart and wash our hands, to name but a few. And now we’re being called to action again.  But this time to dine out to help the...

The mortgage news that will delight first-time buyers in Rayleigh & Hockley.

In this two-minute read, we look at the return of 90% loan to value mortgages (LTV) and the flurry of activity in the housing market. The property market has received a shot in the arm with some lenders including Nationwide reintroducing 90% LTV mortgages for first-time buyers. As Nationwide is Britain’s second-biggest lender, the decision is another piece of good news for the sector which has...

Why local sports clubs and arts groups in Rayleigh & Hockley need our help

In this three-minute read, we look at why our sports clubs and arts groups in Rayleigh & Hockley are so crucial to our communities.   It was a sad and sorry sight when clubhouses, theatres and church halls were mothballed during the lockdown. Places that once buzzed with activity sat empty; the groups who once occupied them hit for six by social distancing rules. But we’re glad to...

What Rishi Sunak’s latest pledges mean for landlords in Rayleigh & Hockley.

In this three-minute read, we look at what the Stamp Duty holiday and a new grant scheme for green home improvements mean for landlords. Chancellor Rishi Sunak made two big announcements about the property market last week and triggered a flurry of activity. Both initiatives represent attractive propositions for savvy landlords. But, as always, it pays to do your homework first. Stamp Duty...

Homeowners and seekers in Rayleigh & Hockley Check out these top tips from an architect.

In this three-minute read, architect Nigel Bidwell shares his tips on what to look for when buying a property AND ways to add value to your current home. Since the easing of lockdown restrictions, the property market has roared back into action. This has been turbo-charged in England and Northern Ireland by the stamp duty holiday announced last week on the first £500,000 of property sales. (Take...

Five tips to help community groups in Rayleigh & Hockley.

In this three-minute read, we explore how you can help the little community groups that make such a big difference in Rayleigh & Hockley.  Throughout this pandemic, many kind-hearted volunteers have rolled up their sleeves without fuss or faff. They have cooked, sewn, fundraised, collected, and delivered to support those in need. They are members of small neighbourhood groups and charities...

Compare listings

Compare