Welcome to Richard Kendall Estate Agent
March brought plenty to celebrate at Richard Kendall Estate Agent, with some fantastic achievements across the team, particularly in our Ossett office.
A special milestone was reached as Mandy celebrated 25 years with the company. Mandy first joined Richard Kendall as a weekend receptionist in our Wakefield office and has since progressed into her role as a full time Property Consultant at Ossett. Her dedication, knowledge and commitment over the past quarter of a century have made her a valued member of the team and a familiar face to many of our clients.
It has also been a proud moment for Millie in the Ossett office, who has successfully passed her CELA exam. This qualification is a recognised professional standard within the estate and lettings industry and reflects our ongoing commitment to training and development. At Richard Kendall we place great importance on professional learning, ensuring our team remain knowledgeable, qualified and up to date with industry standards so we can continue to deliver the high level of service our clients expect.
What is changing
Section 21 is being removed, meaning you will no longer be able to regain possession without a reason. All possession will need to be sought using the revised Section 8 grounds. This is a significant shift and places greater importance on understanding the correct route before taking action.
When you can regain possession
The updated Section 8 grounds cover situations such as rent arrears, selling the property or moving back in. Each ground has specific criteria and notice periods, and these must be followed carefully. Using the wrong ground or serving notice incorrectly can delay the process, so accuracy is key.
Property chains, where multiple transactions depend on each other for completion, represent one of property markets' most challenging aspects. Understanding which chain elements remain within your control and which lie beyond your influence helps you focus efforts effectively whilst maintaining realistic expectations about potential complications.
What you can control: Your own transaction speed
Respond promptly to all solicitor requests, buyer enquiries, and documentation requirements. Quick responses prevent your transaction becoming the chain's bottleneck whilst demonstrating commitment encouraging others to maintain similar urgency.
Instruct solicitors immediately upon accepting offers rather than delaying several weeks. Early instruction allows legal processes to begin whilst other chain participants arrange their affairs, creating parallel progress rather than sequential delays.
Gather required documentation proactively including title deeds, building regulation certificates, planning permissions for alterations, and guarantees for works completed. Having these ready prevents searches delays when solicitors request them.
Review your current tenancies
Spring is a good time to take stock of your portfolio. With the move towards periodic tenancies, it is important to understand where each property sits. Check tenancy start dates, rent levels and any upcoming changes so you can plan ahead and avoid being caught off guard.
Pets and property suitability
Under the new rules, tenants can request a pet and you must consider this reasonably. Take time to review each property. Is it suitable for a pet? Are there lease restrictions or insurance conditions to consider? Setting clear expectations from the outset will help protect your property while remaining compliant.
Rent reviews and market alignment
Regular rent reviews are key to ensuring your property keeps pace with the market. Rents can only be increased once every 12 months, using the correct notice, and must reflect current market conditions. Reviewing comparable properties in your area will help you make informed decisions and avoid falling behind.
Despite year round property market activity, spring consistently emerges as the peak period when moving decisions accelerate and transaction volumes surge. Understanding the psychological, practical, and seasonal factors driving this pattern helps sellers time listings strategically whilst capitalising on heightened buyer activity and favourable market conditions.
New year resolutions translate into action
January brings reflection and goal setting around life changes including housing improvements. Whilst resolution enthusiasm peaks in January, practical action typically occurs during February and March once initial planning converts into concrete steps. Buyers spend January researching areas, understanding affordability, and arranging finances. By spring, preparation completes and they are ready to view properties and make offers. This transition from planning to action creates spring's activity surge.
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