Sales remain brisk as demand continues
The market is busier than in any year since 2007. In the first nine months of 2021, HMRC estimate that more than 1.2 million homes changed hands, 47% higher than the long-term UK average (2010–2019) and just 50,000 fewer than the same period in 2007. On average, there is now only 2.2 months’ worth of stock available in the UK, compared to four months’ stock in 2019 (TwentyCi).
Seven areas in the South East Home Counties: Kent and East Sussex have seen more than one in every 20 homes change hands over the past year. The average annual rate of housing stock turnover in the area as a whole is 4.9%.
On the up
The average price of a property has increased significantly during the past year, a number of localities experiencing double-digit annual price growth. Agents anticipate price growth will moderate over the coming months to more sustainable levels, with predicted growth of 3.0% in the South East during 2022 (Zoopla). According to Dataloft, the annual increase in the average property price in the region is £28,700.
Keeping warm
COP26 focused attention on the environment and energy efficiency. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is needed whenever a property is built, sold, or rented. While 90% of new build properties achieve the highest A or B rating, just 1 in 14 resale properties currently reach that grade, although 60% could with improvements. Upgrading could prove lucrative; resale properties rated A/B currently attract a 13% price premium (based on £psf), compared to those properties with the average D rating1.
Properties for sale in the Kent and East Sussex regions of the UK
Northiam, East Sussex, 4 bedrooms
This attractive, immaculately presented four-bedroom detached house is set on the rural outskirts of the village, enjoying far reaching countryside views. Inside, the property benefits from a contemporary interior, which includes three reception rooms and a beautifully fitted kitchen/breakfast room with a separate utility room on the ground floor. Upstairs, there is a master suite, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom. The rear garden is of an excellent size, mainly laid to lawn with planted borders and an extensive paved patio to the rear.
Edenbridge, Kent, 4 bedrooms
A stunning riverside property built in 2012, this beautifully presented four-bedroom detached family home is only one of five individually designed properties built around a private courtyard. The property offers four double bedrooms, a kitchen/diner with a balcony, three bathrooms and ample private parking. Ideally situated, the property is only a short walk to Edenbridge town centre and the local railway.
Leigh, Kent, 2 bedrooms
This attached former granary has been sympathetically renovated throughout and forms part of a small farm conversion, situated on the outskirts of the conservation area of picturesque Leigh village. This unique property, which adjoins Moat Farm Barn, provides comfortable and spacious contemporary living accommodation, complemented by superb period features including exposed beams and vaulted ceilings. There is a small courtyard to the rear with outlook over the adjoining moat.
Contact us
As property prices continue to rise and the UK hits a record number of sales for autumn, sell your property with experts in the property industry this winter. Contact your local Guild Member today.
