Winter is upon us but many homes in the UK aren’t ready for the dip in temperature that this season brings. It’s important that the cosiness we try to evoke during this time of year is kept in the home, rather than leeching outside in the form of draughts and unwanted leaks.

Investing in getting your home ready for the winter chill is always time and money well-spent, and it offers the additional benefit of boosting the value of your home too. So, whether it’s heavy rain, frost and snow, or harsh winds, here’s what you can do to prepare your home for the winter weather and keep your energy costs down in the process.

How to Make Energy-Efficient Changes

Insulate the Home

Insulation is lacking in many homes, but it’s crucial for energy efficiency. Adding thicker insulation to walls, floors and loft spaces can make all the difference to reduce heat transfer and lower your energy expenses.

While it’s an upfront expense, cavity wall and loft insulation could potentially save you hundreds of pounds annually in utility costs. Don’t forget about connecting spaces like garages – choose an insulated garage door made from a material like GRP which has low thermal conductivity to prevent heat loss.

Swap Out Your Classic Fireplace

Modern homeowners are increasingly turning to energy-efficient fireplace alternatives that eliminate fossil fuel dependence. Modern gas fires are among the most energy efficient heating appliances you can buy today, while electric fireplaces with advanced heat pump technology and bioethanol units offer clean heating solutions that produce minimal emissions compared to traditional wood or gas fireplaces.

These options provide attractive, zero-carbon heat sources and eliminate the need for chimney maintenance, so they can easily be integrated into existing living spaces. Moreover, these modern fireplace solutions come in diverse design styles—from sleek minimalist models to classic aesthetic reproductions—ensuring that energy efficiency doesn't compromise interior design preferences.

Upgrade Your Windows

Investing in double glazing might seem like a significant expense at first, but it can lead to considerable savings over time and it’s an upgrade you’ll be glad you made when it comes to the winter season. Double, or triple, glazing retains more heat during the colder months, which can lower your energy bills, and offers the additional benefit of blocking out more noise which is great news during bad weather.

To maximise these benefits, pair your glazed windows with thermal energy-saving blinds or curtains to create an additional barrier against heat escape, ensuring your property stays warmer for longer. These specialised textiles act as an effective insulator, keeping the heat inside your home during the winter and maintaining a cooler interior during the summer.

Incorporate Smart Devices

Smart devices are highly in demand, and one of the features that buyers look for in a property. They’re ideal for improving sustainability efforts, but they’re also perfect for the winter season because you can control the likes of lighting and thermostats much more easily, enabling you (or a buyer) to maintain a comfortable home.

For buyers, the presence of smart technology adds a layer of sophistication and future-proofing to a property, making it a more appealing investment. Whether you’re staying put for now or planning to sell in the near future, integrating smart devices can enhance daily living and significantly boost your home's market value

Make Changes to Bathrooms

Your bathroom may not be the first area you think of when it comes to optimising for energy efficiency, but there are several changes you can make to reduce utility costs. For example, low-flow showerheads and water-efficient toilets can help to minimise water waste, while LED lighting keeps your electricity consumption down and makes sure your bathroom is well-lit in the darker winter months. If you’re looking to make a bigger change, why not add in underfloor heating that enhances the sustainability of the room, and provides convenience and comfort.

Green Your Roof

You might be surprised to learn that a green roof is one of the eco-friendliest changes you can make and that it’s a great addition to your property in the winter. Not only does a green roof boost the kerb appeal of the property, but combining vegetation with solar panels can improve the insulation and temperature regulation. Plants on the roof also help to soak up a significant amount of water, which avoids the risk of blocked guttering and leaks—common issues in the colder months.

Install a Steel Front Door

Replacing your front door with a high-quality steel option provides superior insulation, enhanced security, and long-term durability for your home. Contemporary steel doors feature advanced thermal breaks and high-performance seals, which minimises draughts and heat loss. Their robust construction offers improved home protection while contributing to overall energy efficiency and potentially reducing insurance premiums

Make Changes Now in Preparation for Winter

Making proactive home upgrades before winter can protect you from unnecessary financial strain when it comes to energy bills. Investing in improvements now helps you create a resilient property that can withstand the cold months. It’s a strategic approach that transforms a potential financial burden into an opportunity for long-term savings and a quicker sale.

The property market increasingly values sustainability, with eco-conscious buyers looking for homes that balance environmental responsibility and economic efficiency. Energy-efficient properties aren't just a trend—they're a smart investment. So, homeowners who prioritise green upgrades can expect to command higher sale prices while offering potential buyers a property that promises reduced running costs and a smaller carbon footprint.

If you're looking for expert guidance on staying ahead in the property market and making your home ready for sale, don't hesitate to reach out to Katie Griffin at katie@sawdyeandharris.co.uk or call 01364 652652.

As we gear up for 2025, many aspiring homeowners are setting their sights on buying their first property. But before you start house hunting, it’s key that you build a strong credit score so you can unlock better mortgage rates. 

To help aspiring first-time buyers, mortgage broker Mojo Mortgages has shared 25 tips to boost your credit score if you plan on buying a house in 2025. 

Check your current credit profile

1.         Monitor your credit report regularly

Make it a habit to check your credit report at least once every few months. This allows you to spot potential issues early, such as unauthorised accounts or sudden changes in your score. Review your credit report for mistakes—such as misspelt names or incorrect addresses.

2.               Report any errors 

Don’t let these errors drag down your score! If something doesn’t look right, reach out to the lender or credit agency to rectify any mistakes.

3.               Keep old accounts open

When reviewing your credit report, you may be tempted to close old accounts—but don’t! The length of your credit history matters. Keep old accounts open, especially those with long histories, as they positively contribute to your overall score.

4.              Register on the electoral roll

Over 7.6 million people in the UK are missing from the electoral roll. By taking just two minutes to register, you could improve your credit score by up to 50 points (according to Experian), potentially unlocking better mortgage deals and saving you thousands in the long run.

5.               Sign up for free credit score services 

Many credit monitoring services offer free alerts for changes in your credit score, so you can stay on top of your credit health without any extra cost.

Make your credit profile more mortgage-friendly 

6.              Be cautious with new credit applications 

In the six months leading up to applying for a mortgage, limit new credit applications. Each application can result in a hard inquiry on your credit report, potentially lowering your score by 5-10 points. Multiple requests in a short period can raise red flags for lenders.

7.              Tackle high-interest debts first

If you have multiple forms of debt, focus on paying off debts with the highest interest rates first as you’ll save on interest fees and pay off your debts quicker. 

8.              Aim to live at the same address for 3+ years 

While this isn’t always possible for everyone, lenders appreciate stability. Living at one address for three or more years demonstrates stable living circumstances.

9.              Avoid changing jobs in the run-up to your mortgage 

Lenders also appreciate job stability so avoid changing jobs in the six months leading up to a mortgage. This helps assure lenders that you won’t lose your job - should you not pass your probation - and that you will be able to keep up with your mortgage payments. 

10.           Keep your old credit card open

If you have two credit cards, keep the older one open until after completing your mortgage application; long-term relationships positively impact your score.

Strengthen your financial relationships 

11.             Disassociate from past financial ties

If you’ve previously shared finances with someone else, request a notice of disassociation from credit reference agencies so their history doesn’t affect yours.

12.            Keep finances separate from less creditworthy individuals

If your partner or flatmate has a poor credit score or spending habits, maintain separate finances to protect your credit history.

13.            Be wary of scams

Identity theft can devastate your credit score in moments. Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and be extra cautious when receiving unsolicited emails or letters regarding money.

Use your bills to boost your credit score

14.           Be responsible for at least one household bill

If you live with friends or family, ensure at least one utility bill is in your name—this demonstrates reliability in managing payments.

15.            Report your rent payments

Use services like Experian's Rental Exchange or platforms like Canopy and CreditLadder to report rent payments, showcasing a consistent payment history that boosts your score.

16.            Set up automatic payments for your bills

Automating your bill payments ensures you never miss a due date. Late payments can significantly damage your credit score, so setting up automatic payments for at least the minimum amount can help you maintain a consistent payment history.

17.            Or set up payment reminders

If you prefer not to automate payments, set up reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure you pay your bills on time. This simple step can help you avoid late payments that negatively impact your score.

18.            Pay for your insurance monthly instead of up front  

When you pay for your car or home insurance monthly, the insurer effectively loans you the annual premium, which you repay with interest each month. This counts as credit, so timely payments can improve your credit score. However, it is worth keeping in mind that it will be more expensive than paying the full premium upfront so you should compare the cost of both options to determine whether it’s the right choice for you. 

Use the correct credit methods 

19.             Stay below 30% credit utilisation

If you’re tempted to overspend this Christmas, don’t. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit limit. For instance, if your total limit is £1,000, keep your balance under £333. This shows lenders that you’re not overly reliant on credit. 

20.          Pay more than the minimum amount on your credit card

When paying off credit cards, aim to pay more than the minimum due. This not only reduces interest costs but also shows you have responsible financial behaviour.

21.            Never withdraw cash on a credit card

Credit cards aren’t supposed to be used to withdraw cash, therefore, doing so often comes with high fees and interest rates that can negatively affect your credit score. 

22.           Diversity your type of credit

A mix of different types of credit (like loans and credit cards) shows lenders that you can handle various forms of borrowing responsibly. Do, however, make sure that you make all of your payments on time and never spend more than you can afford.

23.            Avoid payday loans at all costs

These loans often come with exorbitant interest rates and can signal financial desperation to lenders, damaging your credit rating.

24.           Become an authorised user strategically

If a family member or trusted friend has an excellent credit history, ask if they'd be willing to add you as an authorised user on their credit card. Their positive credit history could help boost your score, but ensure they have a long-standing record of responsible credit use.

25.           Consider a secured credit card or credit-building loan

If the above isn’t an option and you have a limited credit history, a secured credit card can be a great way to start building credit. These cards require a cash deposit that becomes your credit limit, reducing the risk for lenders while helping you establish a positive credit history.

John Fraser-Tucker, Head of Mortgages of Mojo Mortgages said: "While there's no set minimum credit score needed to buy a house in the UK, a strong credit score can significantly improve your chances of securing a better mortgage. By following these tips consistently, first-time buyers can improve their financial standing and increase their likelihood of stepping onto the property ladder in 2025. 

“Remember, it's not just about the score – lenders consider various factors, including your income, employment stability, and deposit size. Start working on your credit profile now, and you'll be in a much stronger position when it's time to apply for your mortgage."

Mortgage Broker - UK's #1 Fee-Free Online Mortgage Broker | Mojo

Everyone wants to make the most out of their garden. Whether it’s a small courtyard or a grassy patch, there are techniques to make your garden seem bigger than it is. Not all houses offer the luxury of a sprawling garden, especially those in cities like London. Try these tricks to make your garden feel spacious.

Vertical Gardening

Using tricks like vertical gardening means you’re using unused vertical space rather than valuable ground area. Vertical gardening usually works best around the boundaries of your space. Using fences to grow creeping plants like Wisteria can give your garden character without using up valuable space.

Hanging baskets are a very common method of vertical gardening. They are fairly inexpensive and you are able to grow fruit and veg in them. Just make sure to not put them above anything that you don’t mind getting wet. Watering these baskets is essential.

Trellis and vertical planters are two other ways of using vertical space. Trellis not only allows plants to hold on while they grow but can also be used for privacy. Vertical plants are a little bit like hanging baskets, only they offer more variety of planting. Try growing evergreen climbers so you can have coverage throughout the year.

Zones

Breaking up your garden into zones can make your space feel twice as big. Instead of having your garden all patioed or all turfed, using options like decking makes each section of the garden have a purpose.

Decking can be an inexpensive way of providing a lounging area, especially compared to landscaping like a patio. Plus, Composite decking is long lasting and requires little upkeep once installed.

Tip: Before undertaking any big projects, draw out a sketch to make sure it all looks good and the measurements are correct.

Mirrors

You might think mirrors are for indoor use only. In recent years they have become more popular to use outside to make spaces seem larger. Mirrors have the ability to make the garden seem twice the size if they’re positioned correctly. In the same way you might put a mirror in a tight hallway to make it look wider. There are lots of stylish designs that mimic old church windows with wrought iron trim.

Tip: You can almost always find a few types of these at your local garden centres.

Neutral Colours

Colours can play a large part in making your garden seem bigger. If you have a courtyard garden, having darker walls can make the space feel dark and enclosed. You are much better off using light colours like white or beige to make the space feel open and airy. Additionally, using lighter colours  makes flowers and greenery stand out beautifully, adding vibrant contrast to the space.

Storage

With a smaller garden, choosing a big shed or large structure can overwhelm the space. With limited real estate it's far more appropriate to choose smaller storage options:  

●       Tool shed: These small form factor storage sheds are shaped to house tools like spades, rakes, and other garden hand tools. This means that you’re only using the exact space you need.

●       Bike shed: Bikes can be an annoying item to store. Fortunately, there are bike sheds that are only as tall as bikes. These small storage sheds are the perfect option for tight spaces. They don’t tower over a garden or block out light.

Using these tips can make a small garden seem much bigger and not as enclosed. Try experimenting with a few of these ideas and see how large you can make your garden feel! If you're looking for expert guidance on staying ahead in the property market and making your home shine, don't hesitate to reach out to Katie Griffin at katie@sawdyeandharris.co.uk or call 01364 652652.

The Autumn can be an ideal time of year to buy or sell property in the UK. With potentially fewer buyers and sellers actively participating in the market, it can be easier to negotiate favourable terms. However, the season also presents unique challenges that both home buyers and sellers need to consider.

We'll explore the trends of the UK autumn property market, provide tips for buyers and sellers alike, and offer insights to help you navigate a house search during the darker months.

Staging your property

If you’re thinking of selling up and want to get a head start, it’s a good idea to list before the start of December. Decorations and Christmas cards can make your home look more cluttered and smaller than it really is, so it’s worth having pictures taken as early on as you can so you can show it in its best light.

Similarly, you don’t want to be handling renovations and refurbishments during the festive season, or when you have potential buyers booking viewings, so getting any updates you want to make out of the way can be incredibly helpful. This is especially true if you’re planning changes that could improve the value of the property, as you naturally want to put the property on the market at the top price you can.

Staging the property is crucial for helping viewers envision themselves in the space, with their own furniture and décor style. The fewer distractions and personal items dotted around the property, the easier it will be for someone to picture themselves living in the property, and staging can help to create neutral but styled rooms that make the best of your home. Think a few artfully placed scatter cushions or a throw over the back of the sofa; a plain mirror that reflects the light but doesn’t sway too heavily into one interior style or another; a table and chairs that gives viewers inspiration for where seating can go.

Tidying up exterior spaces

By the time autumn rolls around, few of us are spending time in the garden and the hard work of the summer planting has been forgotten about. But this can mean the garden looks a little neglected, so before you list, spend a few hours tidying it up so it enhances the kerb appeal of your home. Mow the lawn, sweep up leaves and trim back dead flower heads and shrubs so the outdoor spaces look as well cared for as the inside.

It's also worth remembering that from November to March, the days are shorter, so you’ll be battling with natural light. If you do list your property in autumn, you can make the most of the last of the lighter days as autumn comes to an end. For exterior shots, November might be the last chance you have if you’re selling towards the end of the year. In December and January, the weather will also be colder and cloudier, which can make your exterior shots look gloomy and shadowed.

Timing tips for autumn buyers

For buyers, now’s the time to strike if you’ve found your perfect home. Waiting to see if a seller drops the price of their listing could mean you miss out on your perfect home. Take the opportunity if you’re lucky enough to find a home you love and enjoy the benefits of a speedier transaction so you can start the new year in a new home.

However, remember not to write off a great home unnecessarily—darker days and poor weather can put a bad spin on an otherwise great property, so remember to look past the weather which can be temperamental at this time of year.

Understanding current market trends

Autumn offers up several positive trends that can go in your favour if you’re looking to make a big property move in the new year. For one, autumn usually offers more stability in terms of property prices compared to the fluctuations you’ll typically see in peak seasons like summer. For sellers, this is great news because it means you won’t need to adjust your listing price to attract buyers. 

There are also fewer properties coming on to the market at this time of year, which not only means fewer properties for buyers to search through but also that buyers are likely to be more willing to meet your asking price rather than haggle. For buyers, the stability in housing prices means you won’t be paying over what the property is worth, which means your budget may stretch a little further.

The natural beauty of autumn can help to enhance the kerb appeal of your property, with the vibrant rusts and oranges of the trees and the cooler weather creating a cosy vibe that can make a home more appealing and homely. Sellers would be wise to leverage this charm by making sure outdoor spaces are well-maintained and interiors are inviting with cosy warm light from lamps.

Lastly, since buyers are motivated to close the deal before the end of the year, property transactions around this time of year tend to be quick. If you’re looking to sell quickly or you’ve already found your dream property and are keen not to lose it, this speed can be a significant benefit.

While it may not be the first season you think of when making a property move, the autumn property market represents great opportunities for buyers and sellers. While the reduced competition can make it more challenging to find your dream home, it also means properties are more likely to be priced fairly and you won’t need to battle with as many other buyers when it comes to putting in an offer. 

For additional expert advice feel free to contact me, Katie Griffin, either by email katie@sawdyeandharris.co.uk or by phone 01364 652652.

Many potential buyers hesitate to view properties on overcast days, but we have idnetified seven suprising perks of house hunting during these darker months.

1.     Embrace the 'grey weather' advantage: With the average British house exposed to grey skies for 68% of daylight hours, viewing homes in similar conditions helps you understand how they will look most of the time. 

2.     Spot security issues easily: Assess street lighting and visibility from outside, allowing you to identify potential security concerns. 

3.     Detect damp problems: Colder, wetter weather reveals moisture signs that are often missed in warmer conditions. 

4.     Evaluate heating efficiency: Observe how well the boiler functions and check for temperature variations between rooms and window condensation. 

5.     Identify seasonal roof and gutter issues: Darker days make it easier to spot potential maintenance problems. 

6.     Appreciate 'hygge' elements: Experience the cosy aspects that make a house feel like home during winter. 

7.     Less competition: The quieter winter market means you can take your time without feeling rushed. 

As your trusted estate agents, we’re here to do more than just show you homes—we’re here to guide you through the practical and emotional journey of buying a property. House hunting during the darker months comes with unique advantages that can give you a real edge, helping you make informed and confident choices on your path to finding the perfect home.

This winter, don’t let the darker nights deter your dreams of homeownership. If you're interested in exploring these insights further or have any questions, feel free to reach out! 

For expert advice feel free to contact me, Katie Griffin, either by email katie@sawdyeandharris.co.uk or by phone 01364 652652.

Credit: Mojo Mortgages

https://mojomortgages.com/mortgage-guides/cold-weather-viewing-tips.