PROPERTY NEWS
HOMEBUYERS GAIN INVESTOR POWERS
A new service which will enable homebuyers to enjoy many of the same perks as property investors has been launched this week by property company Assetz. “Assetz Homes” will help buyers to secure the best properties at the most competitive prices by negotiating discounts on their behalf – a significant advantage in what are challenging market conditions for buyers. For further information go to www.homes.assetz.co.uk.
GAZUMPING HIGH IN PRIME LONDON MARKET
Gazumping has made a dramatic return to the capital’s prime property market, according to research by estate agency Marsh & Parsons. Agents have reported an increase in cases of gazumping – where a vendor rejects an accepted offer in favour of a higher price – as demand for properties hit record highs, averaging at 14.3 applicants per property. A speedy exchange of contracts is recommended to avoid being caught out.
CASA FORMA REVEALS NEW LUXURY FLAT
Architectural and interior design firm Casa Forma has unveiled a new bespoke property, adding to its collection of aspirational high-end London residences. The four bedroom flat is housed in a Georgian building with a prime location on Davies Street between Grosvenor Square and Bond Street. The finest natural materials have been used to give the apartment a sense of understated luxury. For further information go to www.casaforma.co.uk.
DEMAND FOR RENTED HOMES HITS RECORD HIGH
Demand for rented homes hit a two-year high during the final quarter of 2010, says buy-to-let lender Paragon Group. The percentage of landlords reporting increased tenant demand rose from 36 per cent to 40 per cent in the last three months of 2010. Just 4 per cent of landlords said that they had seen a decrease in demand. The high comes as more and more people are unable to secure mortgages and are forced to rent.