house Phil Spencer Answer Your Property Questions

Ask the Experts: Index Phil Spencer Answers Your Q's

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Date Published:
26/06/2008
roll of twenty pound notes Phil Spencer Answers Your Q's

How can we raise cash?
‘We have put an offer on a repossessed house that needs work. We can organise a mortgage and have sufficient deposit, however, we need some extra cash to get the building work done. We have a choice of releasing £33K from our existing mortgage to help with building costs or we can sell a flat that we rent out to release some cash for the entire cost of the building work. What should we do?’
Liz

Phil Says...
‘Not having access to all the issues of the property, my advice would be to keep the flat and raise the money with a mortgage.

One of the results of the credit crunch is that it’s harder for buyers - particularly first time buyers - to get mortgages, which means the number of tenants increases, which means rents are increasing. When prices are coming down, rental yields are coming up, particularly in this cycle, because first time buyers have been unable to buy.

As an aside, if you were to sell the flat, it’s good news to do so with an existing tenant, assuming it’s going to an investor.’

On A Lighter Note

Decent proposal
‘Will you marry me?’
Tracy

Phil Says...

‘Sorry, Tracy, can’t help you with that one!’

Viewers Abroad
‘When are you coming to Australia?’

‘When are you coming to Canada?’

Phil Says...
‘This is something we’ve been asked lots of time this evening. To answer you all – we’re very much hoping to come to Australia to film for Relocation in January.

Thanks to everyone from Canada, too, for your support - I know there are lots of you. I’ve got loads of relatives in both Canada and Australia, so would happily film in both.’

How Do You Rank?

‘So if Kirstie is the 91st sexiest woman, what number sexiest man are you??’
Claire

Phil Says...
‘Someone recently told me I was at number 41 – but I don’t know anything about it!’

This could be a case for...
‘You two are the Mulder and Scully of the property game. When are you going to get together?’
Sharon

Phil Says...
‘That’s a huge compliment. We both enjoy watching X Files, as well as making this show. It’s an enormous privilege to work at close quarters and to have influence over what is such a huge financial and emotional decision. It’s a great job. We love it, and we love finding houses for people.’

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  1. We purchased a house with land on the side of it with the potention to build another house on the side. We have received planning permisson but the mortgage company want a payment of ?50,000 off the mortgage to split the title deeds for security. We are not able to do this at present but said we were happy for them to keep security in both plots, but they said they would not do this and asked us not to start building anything, any way round this or suggestions would be of help, we could change mortgage company but as my husband got the mortgage under self cert as he is self employed I do not think this would be possible in the present market.
    Posted by sue maurice on 02/12/2009 11:18:28
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  2. When buying a house do you buy with your head or your heart? We are buying at the moment there are two houses, very different 1 14 year old modern, in prefered location and the other victoria house near where we are now, not so good location. I really do not know which one to go for.My heart says Victorian, my head says modern. I know you can't choose for me but any advice would be a benefit. Thanks Fiona
    Posted by Fiona Drury on 01/12/2009 18:21:47
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  3. Dear Sirs I was wondering if with your experience in the property market that you may be able to help me with a small problem that I have, To start with I had my property on the market early last year (2008) we had an offer that we had excepted, trouble with that it was part of a chain and with the credit crunch the chain collapsed like a house of cards, and unfortunately with the banks not giving out mortgages we are unable to sell our property at the moment, and so we came up with the idea of giving our property away in a prize draw, our solicitors have said that we can do this in law, the gambling commission have sent me details of how to set it up, the data protection people have given me instructions on holding data, even our local paper put an article in the paper, but I’m not getting the message out to the wider public, and this is where I would ask you if you could help me with your experience and contacts if you could point me in the right direction to get my message out with out having to pay out thousands of pounds on advertising. You may check out my web site www.winahome.biz I can send the paper article, and if you could help I may be contacted either by Email or phone. I hope you can help and therefore I look forward to your reply. Regards, Paul Griffiths grif@ic24.net 01837871668 07792549660
    Posted by grif on 26/11/2009 14:23:59
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  4. Dear Phil, we put our property on the market last October, 1900 detached property with 4 dble beds, 4 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms, utility room, high spec kitchen with Aga/rayburn with the rest of the house also updated to a high standard by us 4 years ago and has 38 acres with a very large barn at the end of the drive, 6 miles from Tunbride Wells surrounded by trees with views from all aspects of the property onto the fields and woods which surround the property but there is a little road noise when you are in the garden but there is no noise inside the house, but it is worse during the day but quiet at night and weekends and this seems to be the reason why it wont sell what do we do ? We have tried two estate agents, both who have valued it at the same price. We were instructed by them to sell with less land, only 10 acres but still not one offer, do you have any suggestions? Should we be waiting until the market picks up and people are not so fussy. Thank you
    Posted by Caroline Bridges on 11/11/2009 10:48:41
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  5. My husband and I are wanting to buy our first home. He is 46 and I am 39. We have no debt at all, but we also have no money for a deposit right now as we just paid off all of our debts. We both have good steady jobs, combined we make about ?75,000 a year. Right now our rent is ?1100 a month, but we could afford quite a bit more. We could wait for 2 years to buy, and save up to ?50,000 during that time. But we are worried because we know we are just getting older and we do not know what our options are. Would it be better for us to wait, or should we try to buy now? Do we even have any options at all without a deposit? We live in North London and would like to stay somewhat nearby. But prices here are quite steep. Please help! We don't want to be renting for the rest of our lives and wasting our money. But I am worried it might be too late for us.
    Posted by N. Skinner on 05/11/2009 23:29:45
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  6. Having split from my boyfriend we would like to sell our house but are in negative equity. We had a 100% mortgage and a substantial unsecured loan. Prices have fallen around ?25000. Do we drop the price or wait till the market picks up? We both have new partners and hope to move forward which we cant do with a joint mortgage. If I take the mortgage over myself, do I have to take on the unsecured loan too that is with the same mortgage provider?
    Posted by Chrissie on 03/11/2009 14:54:09
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  7. Dear Phil My husband and I are both architects and moved from London to return to my family home in Kent with our young daughter - so we are now a 3G family including grandparents. The house is listed and is in an area of outstanding natural beauty. We have decided that the house does need to grow as our family grows and we are developing some exciting proposals for the new build. We are also very interested in the house history and plan to restore the original wing to its former glory by taking out a recently inserted first floor.I did read that you had been appointed as Ashford's design guru for housing and wondered whether you would be able to give some of your precious time to advise or possibly champion a cutting edge exemplar; ensuring continuity within a heritage site.
    Posted by Siggi on 30/10/2009 10:10:29
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  8. Don't know if you can help us but we are enquiring about buying a property in London. Problem is we are in Australia. Fristly we don't know where we stand legally. Can we buy a property as Australians? How does your real estate process work? Secondly we need to buy something that has a good net return and capital gain. We need advice on location and on management. Thirdly we need to have properties lined up and ready to look at in a short time frame if we are to fly over to buy. We are thinking a two/three? bed apartment up to 350,000 pounds in London near transport and with no work to be done. Is it a good time to buy? Is it all too hard? Need advice!!
    Posted by Deborah on 28/10/2009 11:10:11
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  9. How can I trace the owners of a vacant property I am very interested in trying to buy?
    Posted by me wxm on 22/10/2009 22:20:58
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  10. Hi Phil, My parents are sadly getting divorced and need to sell their home. They currently have a 4 bed house in Cornwall with a 2 bed cottage attached , as a rental unit which provides them with an small annual income ( they are semi-retired ). Do you know of anywhere (website/company) they can promote this a business opportunity to escape to the country , or can you asvise that this may sell quicker and get more return to sell independantly ? Your advise would be most welcome. Thank you Zoe
    Posted by zoe on 19/10/2009 13:59:40
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  11. Hi Phil and Kirste. My husband and me are watching your program when you help people to finde a property they need and we love it. We are jung couple living in Hove and would like to buy a our first place together. If you will be able to help us please let me know. Thank you
    Posted by Sam on 16/10/2009 13:45:48
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  12. Dear Phil and Kirsty, Please can you do more L,L,L episodes about people who only have a modest budget? Every week you seem to feature young professional couples straight out of a glossy Sunday supplement, with 500K to spend. Are you aware that most people don't have anything like that? Perhaps it's intended to be 'aspirational' TV, but it's just really depressing, and makes C4 seem out of touch with most peoples' lives. This week's episode: lottery winners. Cheers.
    Posted by jim comma on 15/10/2009 20:58:09
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  13. My son and his wife have put an offer on a flat in MuswellGreen, there's an 86 year lease, no one seems to know much about the subject, he doesn't want to land himself with a huge bill when he decides to move in the future, he's told 80 or less and it won't sell, this is ridiculous, what can he do please. regards Elaine ps I love the show
    Posted by Elaine Meadows on 10/10/2009 12:24:36
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  14. On the show, you often have "local builders" around to quote for work. I'm considering purchasing a ground floor flat and re-arranging the floorplan but I need to get a quote from someone who knows about structural walls, bathrooms not against external walls, planning permission requirements etc. and a local builder says they'll quote for the work once I have drawings and have purchased the property! Do you know who could help give me a free estimate and indicate what might or might not be possible for me to do? Thanks.
    Posted by Niamh on 07/10/2009 13:33:17
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  15. My wife & I are leaving Australia to come back to UK & are looking for a 2/3 bed house in a village area, i.e. kent,new forest, devon, woking surrey or marlow price up to 230.000 Can you help. regards John & Joy Daniels
    Posted by john daniels on 07/10/2009 08:09:23
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  16. hi phil.we have a 4 bedroom cottage we are converting ito 2 two bed cottages.we have lived here for 4 years.if on completion we sell one of the cottager are we liable for capitol gains tax ?
    Posted by nicko on 03/10/2009 11:47:31
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  17. I have a mortgage and a fixed income. Both my husband and myself are retired we would like to buy a 2nd property as chedap as possible in the humntingdon area do you think this is feesible
    Posted by lexie on 28/09/2009 10:46:44
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  18. We have just moved into a property only to find that our next door neighbour is run by progress care and is a care in the community establishment for severly mentally disabled people with 24 hour one on one care for each person. The vendor has lied on his property information form when he said he had not had a dispute with a neighbouring property as according to the social workers he complained on several occasions and this was the reson they were moving! How good are my chances of suing him for misrepresentation? Also should this not have been picked up by any searches etc my conveyancing solicitor did?He is saying not and being generally unhelpful not surprising really!Also if we do pursue a case is there a time scale we need to do so within? What would we need?I would be very grateful for your assistance in this matter Rachel
    Posted by Rachel Chatwood-Platt on 25/09/2009 14:29:09
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  19. Hi Phil We have accepted an offer on our house in lancashire and my wife wants to move back to north yorkshire; she is from whitby. Potentially she has a job in guisborough , i am still looking for where my work will be which hopefully have more of an idea in the next two weeks. We are looking for a character property in a nice peaceful area with around 3 bedrooms and the possibility of land for a horse. We would like some assistance
    Posted by chris evans on 24/09/2009 07:54:08
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  20. I have two small stone houses in Cyprus. One is 90% renovated so can be lived in. The other is a full project that would qualify for a 50% grant. I have Title deeds too. I don't have the funds to complete the project and even though willing to drop prices if offer made bu the market is standing still there - except for developers selling shiny concrete vllas without deeds! Got an agent but no luck - need to be in the UK so need some honest advise to resolve this. If they were finished there wouldn't be profit in it for the buyer... don't know what to do? Happy to receive advice or ideas please. I also have a piece of residential building land in a posh area same story. Nix! A
    Posted by Amrit on 19/09/2009 20:08:18
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  21. In your first programme of the new series you said that bungalows were a developers dream. In the tree lined road where I live most our 1950s bungalows stand on 1/3 acre plots and one bungalow two doors away and one further up the road sold a couple of years ago to small time builders. They both wanted to build two further properties in each of the back gardens. After prolonged planning applications and appeals the local council gave permission for one bungalow in each back garden. My question is that now a precedent has been set does that mean that when I come to sell I could expect to have a 'developing premium' added to the selling price or is that only applicable if I sell with planning permission already agreed?
    Posted by Wendy on 10/09/2009 17:34:34
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  22. We live rurally but have problems with the local schools, the village schools are under due to close and the secondary education is 20 miles away we wish to send our childern to village Primary School and have a good Secondary school nearby also. Where can we move to find this?
    Posted by Flower on 09/09/2009 12:07:24
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  23. Beware of the "forever " home. We have one, bought when 20 years younger with 3 sons. Now in our 60s thre house is too big, expensive to run and the large garden needs constant attention to stop it turning into a jungle. Sell it I hear you say, well I would if I could. Unfortunately it takes 2 to make that decision- so until OH decides he's ready to move I'm stuck. So unless you want a retiirement of drudgery, beware the forever home!
    Posted by lizzie on 06/09/2009 14:14:25
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  24. i moved into a council property and took the house as seen i asked the council to remove the polystyrine tile as i felt it was dangerous and they refused as they say i took it as seen is there anything i can do or fight this desion
    Posted by karen fadera on 28/08/2009 09:14:24
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  25. My husband and I own a flat in leigh on sea but I work in London and am desperate to move up there, so we have decided to compromise and buy a pier de tare. We would like to stay quite central and in the east end for transport links back to Essex but primarily we want a good investment. I understand that the Olymic stadium is helping to redevelope the area of Bow, so do you think this is the best place to buy? Also, we are more fond of period properties but will we get a better deal on a new development due to the vast number of them? As this is not our home we are not going to be too particualar and intend to go with the best investment oppertunity, so what percentage under the asking price should we try for?
    Posted by Sophie on 27/08/2009 09:28:12
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  26. Hi I am a first time buyer and have just put an offer of ?125 in on a property, but due to the amount of interest the vendors wanted to wait to take it of the market? There is now 3 offers on the property and it is going to final offers due in at 12pm on wednesday. Im not sure on how to approach this as i do not want to offer over the odds but also dont want to miss out on the property. Any advice?
    Posted by Sarah on 24/08/2009 17:31:46
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  27. Afternoon, I need your advice of where to move to? I currently live in Essex in a four bed detached house. I wish to downsize as in under two years time my daughter may be at university and I do not really want to be living in a large house. I would like to downsize to 2/3 bedroom near the sea I dont want to move to a flat and am looking for a quite area but near to shops etc. Thank you for your help Wendy
    Posted by wendy on 23/08/2009 14:09:34
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  28. Hi Phil, Can you help my uncle wants to buy a property in England, he is a Australian citizen, but was born and holds a British passport. Is there a way that he can get a British mortgage and rent out the property?
    Posted by shelley on 20/08/2009 14:32:08
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  29. we own a house in ireland an are thinking of moving to england,whats best to do sell or rent out house in ireland?
    Posted by vckie on 12/08/2009 21:19:25
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  30. In your first programme of the new series you said that bungalows were a developers dream. In the tree lined road where I live most our 1950s bungalows stand on 1/3 acre plots and one bungalow two doors away and one further up the road sold a couple of years ago to small time builders. They both wanted to build two further properties in each of the back gardens. After prolonged planning applications and appeals the local council gave permission for one bungalow in each back garden. My question is that now a precedent has been set does that mean that when I come to sell I could expect to have a 'developing premium' added to the selling price or is that only applicable if I sell with planning permission already agreed?
    Posted by Wendy on 09/08/2009 10:56:52
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  31. Hi Phil, I have a fab home in a perfect location,location, location, it has three bedrooms 2 bathrooms a huge dining table, cute stting room, a fab family room, office, bar and a profit centre! Planning permission for a new room and a 4'th bedroom. Have you got any cool punters? Best of luck Steve
    Posted by Stephen Skinner on 05/08/2009 20:54:42
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  32. Just a quick question, is now a good time for a buy to let?
    Posted by Malc Smith on 05/08/2009 19:08:57
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  33. Dear Phil, We have managed to achieve planning permission for a two bed bungalow to be built on our family home garden. This will devalue the family home buy approx 40K, we have been offered 62K for the plot. I am seriously considering though trying to find a lender that will finance the build costs (fixed price 70K), rent out the new home for 8-10 years making this the period of the mortgage/loan, then coming away with a new build valued in todays market at 220,000 and our property valued in todays at 240,000 - all sounds so good, we dont have pensions so could be our nest egg or am i missing something vital? - we are sound borrowers have never defaulted nor have CCJ's. Thanks but would love your advise to this issue.
    Posted by Debbie Mott on 04/08/2009 01:19:12
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  34. My fiance and i are getting married in April and would love to but a house either before or after the wedding. We are both first time buyers and at present are renting. We have £3000 deposit, not nearly enough and earn, between us, £43000 before tax, etc. We have looked at park homes (in surrey), but they too can be pricey and need a hefty deposit, so have considered part buy. Is this a good idea?
    Posted by Evie on 30/07/2009 11:43:31
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  35. I WAS JUST WONDERING IF YOU COULD GIVE EM A ROUGH GUIDE OF HOW MUCH A STAIR CASE WILL BE TO PUT IN MY NEW PROPERTY AS THE OTHER ONES FALLING APART THANK YOU AND WHERE TO SHOP FOR 1 THE BEST PLACE
    Posted by JANE on 18/07/2009 21:15:35
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  36. have sold my house, want to buy in bucks, but have been refused mortgage because of bad credit rating. have 35,000 deposit and can afford 200000 any ideas how i can get out of this dilemna?
    Posted by jan stafford on 09/06/2009 14:53:55
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  37. I hope you don't stay in Oz (if you're still there) for too long Phil - the UK needs your skills more than ever now. How about doing a re-vamped, more sophisticated, "house doctor" style prog for all those of us who would struggle to sell. Get the market moving. I'm sure I saw you in Tunbridge Wells the other day, am I mistaken??
    Posted by Marie, Cranbrook, Kent on 03/06/2009 21:02:45
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  38. if interested in buying land to build on, what are the main points to look out for and are there any web sites you could recommend? Tthank you Suzy
    Posted by Suzy on 20/05/2009 19:21:21
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  39. We are looking to buy a 2nd home within an hours drive of our own home to use as a holiday house - primarily for our own use but also to rent to friends and others through word of mouth (not an agency). We found a fabulous house on the edge of a forest, negociated and agreed a price which was 15K below what they were asking. We subsequently found out that there had been a murder in this row of cottages and through searhes on the internet found out it was in our house! A man had stabbed his wife and then hung himself. This happened only 4 years ago and the present owner was the first occupant. Surprisingly the agent wasn't aware of this and was shocked that we thought it was an issue! This has been a great discussion topic among our family and friends. The majority have said they would not buy/like to visit the house but some are not bothered.(I have to say you cannot forsee which way people are going to go on this one) Regretfully we have decided to pull out - although we are not spooked by it we want our friends and children when they are old enough to use the cottage and can't take any chances. We are also worried about the resale of the property. I now think the agent should tell people who are enquiring about the incident although I'm not convinced they will. I think it is unfare to sell a property with such a recent, tragic history. People can then make their own minds up. I would be interedtd to know what Phil's view is on this - would he buy it? Also does he feel the agent/vendor should be upfront about this?
    Posted by Helen on 18/05/2009 10:11:43
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  40. we have seen a house and would like to put in an offer but our own house hasnt sold as yet! what happens if we put in an offer and it is acceptable but our current house hasnt sold. mortgage company say we have to pay both mortgages, will they transfer both mortgage amounts to lawyer for the purchase of the new house?
    Posted by kjl on 10/05/2009 01:36:54
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  41. Just a note i'm from Malmesbury and it's in Wiltshire. Very dersirable and prices have probably held there. I live on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, and sold and Edwardian huge flat last October for just over what we paid for it 4 years ago, we are now in rented accomodation whilst we look to buy again, but the mortgage offer has been low (even with a 40K deposit) and prices here aren't dipping that far. Any advice? (apart from moving out of the area!)
    Posted by emma on 08/05/2009 16:26:46
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  42. Phil Hi, My son and his wife are looking to buy a Grade11 building in Stockland which has been on the market for a couple of months he is down sizing by looking at this property but wishes to go back to rural living. However planning is notoriously difficult to get in East Devon. The cottage adjoing the property he is intrested in has a much longer wing to the rear of the cottage by about 30ft and he only wishes to extend approx 15ft with a double storey extension. Could you give us some advice on how to handle Planning and what questions to ask. We have been told that the officer will say yes you can do this or not depending who they are then finish with BUT IT IS ALL DOWN TO PLANNING!!!! I know from watching relocation that you do have a lot of sucess with planning and would be grateful for any tips you could give us. MANY THANKS IN ANTICIPATION Carol.
    Posted by Carol Wright on 29/04/2009 23:07:28
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  43. In one of your programmes you spoke about an old school house in Yorkshire ripe for modernisation. It was in the part of the program "what u can buy for ... around the Country" Is there any chance you can tell me where it is, please ? Thank you very much
    Posted by M BARNETT on 19/04/2009 12:17:26
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  44. My daughter danielle is living in halls of residence at the moment we would like to buy her a three bedroomed flat in London, however we live in Scotland and do not know what areas would be suitible for her. Our budget would be £200.000 and we would be cash buyers.I hope you can help us. Dianne Glasgow Scotland
    Posted by dianne mcgroary on 09/04/2009 13:08:54
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  45. We currently live in a large 4 bed Victorian house in Dunfermline scotland but need to move due to my husband being relocated. We can live anywhere within 2 hours commuting time from Birmingham as he will be based at home but will also be required to go to B'ham for meetings maybe once/twice a week. Our children are 5 and 3 so schools are important plus we have an English Pointer puppy who requires a lot of exercise in the countryside. I am rather lost as to where to live and reading ofsted reports etc is confusing me even more. Can you possibly help in advising where a family with approx ?350,000 should settle for good commuting, good schools and good quality of life. Our house is due to go on the market in the next couple of months so if all goes to plan we would hope to move by the end of the year. Your advices would be very much appreciated. With kind regards Pamela Jeffrey
    Posted by Mrs Pamela Jeffrey on 05/04/2009 18:08:42
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  46. We are considering moving to the Lincolshire area, but I know nothing about the best/worst areas. Can you enlighten me? I want a pretty English village with beautiful homes with period features/barns etc and a good pub! Also need to consider schooling, we have 2 children, a 4 year old & a 1 year old so initially a primary school, but long term, I want a family home so decent secondary schools - even independant ones - are a consideration too.
    Posted by Jules on 30/03/2009 19:22:38
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  47. Dear Phil and Kirsy - I have an old village 3/4 bed house for sale in Languedoc which is in reasonable condition and suitable for a large family but has no garden but has been on the market for 8 months. I have put up signs outside and it is also with 3 agents in France but as yet not 1 single enquiry. What do you suggest I could try? I have also advertised on the internet and am putting up cards in shop windows. There is no mortgage on the property. Is it possible to take out equity in France?
    Posted by Michelle Gibbs on 23/03/2009 10:47:45
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  48. I live in France and own a modern 3-bed bungalow, which I'm hoping to exchange for a property in S.W. England. Via homesoverseas.co.uk. I shall do a leaflet campaign in the area, but is there any particular dangers to look out for in this type of transaction? Your advice will be appreciated. Reg. V.
    Posted by Reg. Varney on 16/03/2009 09:53:08
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  49. My wife & I are intending to buy a property in the Chelmsford (Great Beddow) and plan to move in July 2009. We already looking various property. Would I get any help as we lost in mid of nowhere and deadline looming.
    Posted by Devesh on 14/03/2009 23:15:22
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  50. I'm looking to buy in Scotland, due to the downturn in the market what is the current percentage rate to offer on the 'offers over' properties? I know before the fall in house prices it could be anything from 10-30% but given the current market i'm a bit unsure.
    Posted by Laura on 14/03/2009 12:59:28
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  51. Hi, I am currently trying to sell a boat in the Surrey Quays area of London. Its a Humber Keel Barge, 80ft long and 17ft wide with a secure mooring. It is like having a detatched flat in London, 4 minutes by river from Canary Wharf, and 15 minutes into Central London by tube. Due to work commitments I need to move back into Essex, so would like to sell the boat as quickly as I can. Any suggestions for a speedy sale? Thank you.
    Posted by Mark,London on 14/03/2009 01:45:01
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  52. Hi Phil, We live in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada and are planning on purchasing a home in the next year or so while prices (hopefully) remain low. Any chance you and Kirsty may make a trip to beautiful Vancouver Island? Dedicated LLL watcher, Erin Larson
    Posted by Erin Larson on 13/03/2009 15:29:51
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  53. Hi, This may seem a strange request, but please bear with me. Could you (or anyone) please give me infoirmation about the notepad Phil uses? My husband is very keen to buy one and, as his birthday is coming up, I'd love to get him one as a gift. Can you help - urgently - please! Many thanks.
    Posted by Ali Chaplin on 09/03/2009 11:42:16
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  54. We're trying to find a house in the Trowbridge area and are quite lost... How do we go about getting someone like yourselves to help us with the search, or better how do we get you!!!
    Posted by Jennifer Tippin on 04/03/2009 18:47:45
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  55. Hi Phil Live in a fantastic village in Oxfordshire and looking to move to Greater Manchester. What I love about the village is its location, surrounded by fields & a rec ground. About 30mins from Oxford & Reading. I have a dog and do dog sitting/walking so am looking for a similar location in G.Manchester. How do I go about finding such a place? Looking on google you can see if a place is surrounded by fields, but this does not necessarily mean they are 'accessible' to public. I like Littleborough area. Thank you
    Posted by Vonna Millie on 25/02/2009 21:29:06
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  56. Dear phil/Kirsty, Our house is now Sale Agreed - Please help my husband and I to avoid the on-going battle of my needs versus his in the search for our forever home. ! What is meant to be a dream come true is certainly anything but that !!! Please help .......
    Posted by Beverley Price on 24/02/2009 17:42:59
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  57. Hi, My wife and I own a semi detached bungalow with an upstairs conversion done to it we have a problem in the loft. We have four small lofts on the first floor which can be entered via the bedrooms our problem is that in one of these lofts we are getting a lot of condensation this is causing dripping onto the floor and also the roof rafters are quite wet. We have air holes to let air in. to the roof space we have the insulation. Can you please tell me the best way of repairing this problem without alot of expense? Many Thanks Andrew Rodgers
    Posted by Andrew Rodgers on 23/02/2009 17:16:46
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  58. Hi Phil, I have to rang to make an offer on my dream house,the estate agent told me it is under offer as someone else has made an offer over the weekend.I have left my details and said i want to make an offer but not said what i want to offer yet.Is there anything i can do?
    Posted by Louise on 23/02/2009 12:42:36
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  59. I am a lease/freeholder in a multi communial home. There are 4 seperate flats in the house but one of the flats is being sub letted by one of the owners and their tenants are annoying and careless, leaving the front door unlocked (a serious security issue), noisey etc. What can us other owners do to stop this nuisance ? We have approached the owner (who obviously doesn't live in the house) and they don't appear to care. Please help Regards
    Posted by Elsa on 22/02/2009 20:15:06
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  60. Hi Phil, I watch your programmes and I aspire to be like you in your career of being in the property business. I am at sixth form college but would like help of where to start to become an estate agent and go higher. Can you help give me a step in the right direction as how to start off?
    Posted by Amber Heeler on 22/02/2009 18:42:51
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  61. Hello Phil. I have moved to UK on July 2008 on five year work permit visa arranged by my company I am a Specialist Engineer, and I am permanent employee. I am living in Doncaster since my office location is nearby. I am interested to buy my first house in nearby area. Can you please advise me, am I eligible for mortgage and which option would be better for me? I will look forward foe your response. Thanks Ali
    Posted by Ali on 22/02/2009 17:20:33
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  62. Hi Phil. Please Help !! We put our house on the market 4 weeks ago, and sold it the same day at the full asking price. Our completion date is the 20th March . We are currently living in the East Yorkshire region and have done for the past 19yrs. Its time for a change , but we dont have a clue where it is we would like to move too. I need good schools , as we have two children aged 15 and 11. I prefer a country setting , Market town etc.With good transport links to any major towns/Cities The North East , Durham is out as is manchester, lancashire,Scotland , Wales. Time is running out and it looks like we are going to have to rent , which probably isn't a bad move in the current climate. BUT WHERE. Any advice and suggestions will be gratefully recieved. Regards Lucy
    Posted by Lucy Sykes on 21/02/2009 02:02:59
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  63. We are an Independent Catering Company and are coming up to our tenth year of trading. We are presently based within a large Engineering Company. We need to find our own freehold premises in the Reading area. This move is also important for the growth of the Corporate Business and our new venture within the Private Sector (such as weddings and private functions). Presently, my partner and I are too busy with new business within this Credit Crunch?? We are looking for a freehold warehouse property of about 3,000 sq ft. We would love to take part in your show. I logged in yesterday but didn't complete the details! So sending you an e-note today! Regards Simon ps photos of us and information on our Company on the Website! www.to-go.co.uk
    Posted by simon rayner on 19/02/2009 12:51:19
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  64. Hi Phil, i'm 26 and my boyfriend is 27 we're currently trying to buy our fist house. Obviously due to the recession and price crash in the housing market we don't want to move too soon. we've got a good deposit and budget but don't know when to make the jump. We know what type of a house we want for but after a year looking just haven't been able to find anything that we'd buy. We would LOVE some help finding a house but there are no Phil's or Kirsty's in Ireland..!! could you recommend anything or anyone??
    Posted by Clare, Dublin on 17/02/2009 19:16:59
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  65. Hi Phil, After having bad luck with chains breaking (3 times) and losing out on the house we wanted to purchase, we decided to rent and not be held up by a chain again. Me and my family have been renting now for over a year, and nothing has come on the market that we are interested in. We are now considering doing a mail drop on houses we like, asking if they are thinking of selling in the near fure would they contact us. Is this a good idea? If so, how would you word it? Hope you can help!!! Thanks
    Posted by Ali on 16/02/2009 09:22:20
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  66. Where to live in Greater London? My partner and I are in the process of selling our 3 bed flat in London to move to the country side to raise a family. I'm from New Zealand and my partner has lived in central London all his life, so we both have no idea about a good location to move to. This next place we buy, we plan to raise a family, so we are looking for a location with good schools, easy transport into London for work and it needs to be north of London. We've asked estate agents for advice; however we haven't had any luck. Can you please help us? Advise us of some location to look at?
    Posted by Maria on 13/02/2009 10:50:26
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  67. My wife & I are intending to buy a property in the Algave, Portugal fairly soon. We are going to Portugal early next month as we already have our eye on a property which needs quite a lot of repair work done to it. Would this be something one of your programmes might be interested in following. If so, would you contact me ASAP to get more details. Thank you.
    Posted by T.KNIBB on 11/02/2009 17:24:49
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  68. Hi Phil, Im considering investing in a property in Norwich to let to students. My concern is paying more than the house is worth in current climate. I would be grateful for any advice you can offer me. Regards Sue Wood
    Posted by Sue Wood on 11/02/2009 15:17:35
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  69. would this make an interesting programme. My husband is in RAF and we have lived in quarters for 15 years. Our twin boys start high school Sept 2010 so we want to settle in the Driffield/Beverley are of East Yorks. We also have a five year old and a nine month old baby so we need as many bedrooms as we can afford, but a bigger garden than most modern developments offer. School catchment is important and so is space so where do we compromise. At the end of the day we can't wait to get into our own place and leave magnolia walls forever. Hope you can help
    Posted by AlisonYoung on 09/02/2009 22:32:30
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  70. Phil, How about a spot on your series helping people like us sell our houses? All the programmes to help us buy are all very well, but if you can't sell in the first place..?
    Posted by Louise on 29/01/2009 13:20:39
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  71. Hi phil, wondering if you could help. Myself and my partner are looking to buy our first home in newcastle upon tyne where he is currently renting, the only problem is LOCATION! neither of us is from the area and we have no ideas of the best areas to look and buy, other than jesmond which is looking way too expensive. We would be hoping to find an area where we could raise a family so schools etc would be fairly important, our budget is up to about 230, Ive tried to find this info on the internet with no luck so would be really grateful for your help, thankyou
    Posted by kerry cumbria on 25/01/2009 23:59:44
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  72. Hi Phil, we have been looking for a house for nearly a year now and had some bad luck with older properties that have subsidence etc. We are now looking at buying a new build, but before we do we would be very grateful for some advice on whether there are any pitfalls or dangers to buying new build in stead of older? many thanks
    Posted by Lauren on 17/01/2009 21:55:59
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  73. Hi, soon i will be working at heathrow airport and i need to sell my house within a year. When is it best to sale my house, and best places to live within 15 miles of heathrow. Budget of 250,000.
    Posted by s saar on 17/01/2009 17:09:08
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  74. Hi. Love the show and wondered if you might be able to offer a little help and advice. I have a beautiful second home in South of France (20 minutes drive from Nice Airport). Unfortunately, I also have a 50% mortgage on the property which I would dearly love to dispense with without the obvious solution of selling completely, as I truly believe this would be a regrettable decision. To this end and considering the global fiscal situation, I have been thinking more unconventionally/creatively and I am contemplating selling a 50% share in the property on a very strict legal and business basis. I am quite realistic about this decision and the legal implications, but would value your opinion and also wonder whether this maybe an interesting dynamic for one of your shows or even if you know of a party who maybe interested in such an arrangement. The property currently (there is also the possibility to extend) has 3 bedrooms, 1 sitting room/dining area, kitchen, bathroom, independent studio comprising of one bedroom and shower room, swimming pool, grounds comprising of lawn and some 18 olive trees, is situated in a quiet and sort after area overlooking the Parc du Loup and Med to the front and the mountains to the rear. House approximately 130m2 Grounds approximately 1600m2. If would be happy to let you have photos and all further information required if you think you might be able to assist in my aim to keep my dream home in the South of France and to this end I very much hope to hear from you. With thanks and kind regards. Julia
    Posted by Julia on 16/01/2009 12:32:53
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  75. Hi Phil Me and my boyfriend are first time buyers wanting to get on the property ladder while the prices are low, in Harrogate. We have a 10% deposit and mortgage ready to go (mums a mortgage advisor which has come in handy!). We found a perfect house had an offer accepted got a full survey (property built 1900) it needed 10k spending on it to make it safe!! and 25k to get the property up to a good, safe standard!! We had to pull out cos we don't have the funds. Very disappointed cried like a baby for hours!! i've now wiped away the tears but have lost all confidence in finding a home - i've looked round a couple of repossessions and put in an offer but it keeps getting beaten by another offer and i'm nervous about the fact a higher offer may be accepted right up to the exchange date (thats a long, stressful 28 days in my mind). Do you recommend getting a full structural on all houses or just old derilict ones? I'm scared that anymore unnecessary costs are eating into our deposit and we may not be able to move. Thanks in advance Emily ;-) (If you do fancy helping us in our search all help greatly appreciated)
    Posted by EMILY on 14/01/2009 21:24:26
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  76. Hi Phil, Just saw another great show, and was very interested in the Sicily places, particularly the one that pays 4.50,00 a week during peek season, that would be the kind of place I'm looking for! Would not have to be Sicily necessarily, just somewhere hot and nice where I can get something for my money! It would have to be somthing in that price range, could possibly stretch it to 80,000 depending what it made. Would really appreciate some help. Thanks! Adam
    Posted by Adam Wyeth on 14/01/2009 21:18:19
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  77. Dear Phil We would like to immigrate out to Australia. We just can't cope with the wheather, with two active young boys, we need the sun! Is this the worst time to consider immigrating? We have 4 properties to sell (two of those, as part of our business). We have given ourselves a time limit of 2 years. So if we hang on the market will probably have recovered. What do you think, is it going to get worse?
    Posted by Colette Murphy on 13/01/2009 14:04:44
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  78. Hi Phil, I am looking to relocate to the coast with my 2 daughters ages 8 and 11 - favouring Bournemouth, Dorset, only because its fairly familiar after two vacations there. How do I know the good from bad areas, Id rather have a smaller property in a great location with access to good schools. Is there a good website you can recommend which 'rates' postcodes etc to know which ares to focus on when searching for properties? many thanks
    Posted by Lana on 12/01/2009 19:17:36
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  79. Hi, can you offer me some advice on purchasing property that backs onto a fairly busy rail line; London to Ipswich and Norwich? I'm concerned this may turn people off when I come to sell. Thanks.
    Posted by Darren on 12/01/2009 17:01:36
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  80. kirstie & Phil mentioned on a program some time ago about agencies interested in properties with unique character for use in film sets.Unfortunately I forgot where these companies can be located. Can you help? many thanks Jim Anderson
    Posted by Jim Anderson on 12/01/2009 12:30:57
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  81. Phil; Question from Canada- Here in N. America when you list your home for sale, your real estate agent does all of the showings. The homeowner is advised not to be present when prospective buyers are looking at the property (also the buyers would feel very intimated ). It appears that in the UK the agents do very little to earn their fee versus on this side of the pond. Would appreciate your comments.
    Posted by John Richeson on 11/01/2009 12:14:04
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  82. Hi Phil have been trying to contact the programme as I would like to buy a property by the sea on the south coast in Devon but the link to the site on your line seems to be down. can you contact me some how and we can try and set up this so that you and Kirsty can help us start out propery search and get the ball rolling so that we can be on the show and purchase propery in Devon. Many thanks Jane.
    Posted by J Adams on 11/01/2009 10:20:16
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  83. I am hoping to relocate to the UK from Ireland in the next 12 months. I have previously lived in the UK for 15 years but wish to go towards the south of England. I have been thinking of Winchester or even Chichester but don't know either very well. Have you any advise please? Have young children so schools would be important. Many thanks. FB
    Posted by Fiona Barber on 09/01/2009 21:20:27
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  84. Hi Kirsty and Phil, I am moving to London soon and, having made a big career jump, I am thinking about buying for the first time. I have looked into shared ownership schemes in the East of London, esp. E14 and E16. I love the area and the flats but I am really worried that these flats may be overvalued and that these schemes may not be the best choice because the housing association will take advantage of the tenant-buyer. What do you think about shared ownership schemes? Are they worth it?
    Posted by Kirsten on 09/01/2009 19:09:55
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  85. Hi Kirsty and Phil,We put our house up for sale in September and we accepted an offer on the property lower than the asking price.The reason we accepted the offer was because it was from first time buyers who had a mortgage offer in place and could move quickly.It is now 5 months since the offer and our buyers have still not exchanged and we have been led to believe they have since changed there mortgage offer for a different interest rate.We are waiting on that offer to come through.We are very annoyed about this and were wondering is there anything we can do to hurry the process up.We feel they are getting the best of the deals while the rest of the people in the chain are waiting to move.
    Posted by Claire on 07/01/2009 22:52:38
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  86. Hi Kirstie & Phil, I have emailed you before and this time i look to change my career path...i have set my sights higher...I would like to work with you guys! I am probably the most enthusiastic person relating to property you could find! I just love it. I am watching your new show tonight and while the ad is on I am sending this mad email! You are both my inspiration and think you have the best jobs in the world! I wouldn't like you to help me with my next move...I want to help with the next move! Please get in touch, keep up the good work!
    Posted by Angie on 07/01/2009 21:02:20
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  87. Hi Phil We have got a great opportunity to buy a property for £450k. we have over 15% deposit and the mortgage agreed. However it requires a complete re-furb and will be unlivable whilst being done. It was probate so is a bargain but the decor and layout is 1950' but a Victorian house. How do you go about raising the cash to do it up as all our deposit needs to go on the house. We can afford much more but would love to do this house up to be our own. Any tips appreciated. we would need about £100k to do it up.
    Posted by Annette on 07/01/2009 11:39:12
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  88. Dear Phil, Can you help us? My husband and I have recently re-mortgaged and we seem to be worst off, we went to our bank to see if it was possible and would we be better off, to make a long story short we have now re-mortgage much to our annoyance with the bank and are now £13000 down as we had to buy out of our existing lender and and extend the term for 25 years instead of 22 years. Can you help us from Ruth & Dave Hall Many Thanks
    Posted by Ruth Hall on 06/01/2009 20:39:46
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  89. Hi Phil & Kirsty On a lot of your shows you find out if a property has already had an offer put on it and how long a property has been on the market. How do you get this information - presumably the vendor's estate agent doesn't just give you this? (Or do you just both smile sweetly at them?!)
    Posted by zoe on 06/01/2009 02:23:08
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  90. Hello Phil, love the program, watch every episode and then all repeats! I've been left money in my father's will, with which I want to buy a property to rent out as a student let. My late mother's family is from Swansea, and we are familiar with Swansea which has a large Uni, therefore lots of students! The income from the rent is to subsidise my income now (I work in the NHS..!)and my pension later. I have just had my 50th birthday so want to get a move on! Who is best to approach first, estate agents or letting agents? Is it best to buy a property already converted to student let, or buy a cheaper one and convert? Do we then have to obtain planning permission etc? I have no more than 90,000 max to spend. I have also read somewhere of local councils running your proerty for you, for a fee, but they guarantee an income even if the property has not been let. Have you any more info on that as well? I cannot find the website where I read about that. Many thanks, Carolyn
    Posted by Carolyn, Worcestershire on 05/01/2009 09:43:26
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  91. I love your show we watch it in Toronto, Canada and thoroughly love to see all the homes that you show your clients. I was wondering if it is a wise discision to sell and move back to England around the Kent area, as we had moved from the Dorset coast to here. Are the houses worth the same or would we be loosing, I would love to pack up and come back. The house we are in right now would sell for three hundred an sixty thousand. Do many people you know make such move and succeed? Thank You
    Posted by Jone on 05/01/2009 00:08:48
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  92. I bought a new build manchester cty centre apartment in the end of 06, its a large canalside development and i wanted your opinion about the future of such developments as i fall in the 15% deposit category that bought at peak. Thanks Scott
    Posted by scott kavanagh on 03/01/2009 22:42:20
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  93. if you are renting a property what is the maximum increase a landlord can impose on a yearly basis
    Posted by 88 on 03/01/2009 17:49:39
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  94. Hi. We have just had a house purchase fall through as the person at the end of the chain would have been in negative equity when he sold his house! This was revealed to us only on the morning of exchange which was pretty frustrating! What is the best way to try and avoid these types of problem when you buy a house, so that you avoid losing part of your deposit each time unecessarily?!
    Posted by Karen on 22/12/2008 15:51:26
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  95. My partner and I currently live outside Glasgow. At the time we were outpriced of our location of choice. We bought our house in 2004 and only intended to stay for around 5 years. We have 2 children and would like to be in our long term home soon before the children start school. Our salaries have both increased and we can now afford to buy in our choosen area. We recently lost out on our 'dream home' as the seller went for a lower offer from somebody who had already sold their property. We are now unsure as to what to do. Do we stay where we are and ride out the market problems? If so how long (worse case scenario) is this anticipated to last? Or do we try and sell our home then rent another whilst we wait for a property in our location of choice? This would be in the hope that house prices have not yet reached their lowest. Many thanks
    Posted by alex, glasgow on 21/12/2008 22:33:44
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  96. Hi Phil & Kirsty, my family and i would like to move to Devon or cornwall to start up a camping and tourning caravan site. We are not sure if we are going to rent out or sell our current home to help fund this.We have looked on the internet but nothing of intrest has come up. We are planning a trip to Cornwall in earley January to see whats about. We would like your help on this and feel that our situation would make good veiwing
    Posted by Martin on 18/12/2008 21:10:16
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  97. could you please advise the current rate for non agricultural,non building land with no access and is land locked in lancashire (BB10) many thanks. atb steve v
    Posted by steven vaughan on 15/12/2008 15:05:26
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  98. A year ago we entered into buying a lovely 400 year old Country Pub. With the economic downturn etc we are looking for ways to make more of the business. We currently live above the Pub in a three bedroom apartment (with kitchen and bathroom). We have been thinking very seriously about moving out and letting the apartment. Mainly as a holiday let. It would need 're vamping' but it is situated in an A.O.N.B which attracts a lot of walkers, cyclists and horse riders. I thought there may be an appeal to being able to stay self contained in a Pub especially one with a history. Can you please advise of feasibility, pitfalls, insurance requirements, anything in fact that might either encourage or deter us from this project. Many thanks
    Posted by Karen on 11/12/2008 13:32:09
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  99. Hi Please could you tell me why Estate Agents are qouting prices on their websites and brochures e.g. £19900 - £22400 ??? I find it very confusing as you use any search for property site and it is noted on the market within your price range but it seems not really !!! I do not want to get into an auction but would like to make an offer but I am confused is this legal !!! Kind regards Vicky
    Posted by Vicky Johnson on 09/12/2008 17:25:22
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  100. I want to buy a property in Bristol/Bath area. However i am in my first job (after finishing university) and have student debt to pay off. But i want to have the asset and not affraid of abit of work. I would have to get loans for most of the buying but if i do it properly i think i can get the money back by being sensible with the property and tenants. However is this the right time to buy? Where do i even start by getting a morgage, finding out which is the best one? etc. Of course i know il get in more debt, but i want a long term asset that i can first be proud of and lucritive. NEED HELP!!
    Posted by Hannah on 09/12/2008 17:19:15
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  101. how do i know if i have exchanged. i should have exchanged friday. estate agent said i would on monday, but i haven't heard anything today? would they let me know?
    Posted by zee jackson on 08/12/2008 18:37:02
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  102. I currently live in a four bed, eight apt modern house in Galston Ayrshire. One of the main apts is a play room but is a double garage on other similar homes. The house was built this way so it has been professionally done. The concern I have is that I'm not sure what is best if I sell the house - creating a double garage or using the space to creat a large kitchen/diner and using the current Kitchen as a downstairs bedroom or study/bedroom. The house has parking for three cars, four at a push. Can you advise?
    Posted by C Callaghan on 07/12/2008 15:46:54
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  103. I have been interested in working with property since I was as young as I can remember and have decided now is the time to get started but desperatley need your advice! I really want to do what you do for my local area. I'm thinking property freelance, where I am registered with all local solicitors and estate agents and they use me to show clients around their properties. I can cross sell and can only see it as a bonus for all parties. I would charge a set viewing fee and have an on-line diary where all parties could log on to keep me busy! I am a very succesful seller and want to utilise my skills to do a job I would thouroughly love! At this stage I dont intend to charge commission, unless you advise to do so, I would be happy just getting a set fee for showing clients to properties and most of all, having job satisfaction! Please help by giving me advice on how to begin my dream job!
    Posted by Angie on 05/12/2008 21:56:02
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  104. Sir my home was reposessed two years ago and sold to someone else i was not notified untill three months later that this took place i was wondering if i stll have to pay off the rest of that loan.our when they sold that propery i no longer was liberble to pay
    Posted by Raymond Stevens on 29/11/2008 09:15:57
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  105. I am a first time buyer with a secure job and a good salary. I am ready and able to buy with a mortgage promise and houses which are in my budget, however none of the banks are offering good interest rates. I have about a 10% deposit but the rates are really high. Have you any advice for first buyers based on what you think is going to happen in the market? I have been advised to save 15% and see what happens after 1st December with any developments. Is this accurate or do you have better advice? Plus if you want to help me find a property I would love your assistance! :)
    Posted by Sharon on 27/11/2008 18:42:05
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  106. hi, i would like your help to find a property, at the moment we live in London and we would like to move to Cambridge what should we? thank you
    Posted by moran drucker on 25/11/2008 10:22:35
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  107. can kirsty and phil help us find a home in Totnes Devon please!?. I cant find anywhere else to request this on your web site. Its a unique part of Devon and we need your help to find a 2 bed house. We have just pulled out of a part buy part rent property in Totnes in the hope that we can get somewhere on the open market for the first time in our lives!. We have a good deposit, are renting and have a mortgage agreed in principle. We are ready to go at the right price. Devon is lovely so please help out, already looking but reckon it would be a good programme as its a familiar situation nationally for young couples and more positive than other stories about at the moment
    Posted by steph parker on 24/11/2008 15:17:54
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  108. Hello, Would it be possible to ask for some information regarding house purchase funding for divorced fathers who always seem to get a rough deal. I am one of them who needs a roof over his head with a small deposit just to survive once the divorce is all over. I know this is an awkward subject but it effects thousands of decent fathers like myself who just want to get on with their lives and provide a decent place for your children to visit, not some awful bedsit. I hope you may be able to help me. Thank you for your time. Kind regards Stuart Morris
    Posted by Stuart Morris on 21/11/2008 15:23:23
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  109. Hi, I am also after some info on Claudia Reyes and the interest free loan of £89,000. Havent seen a response to Laras comment below. Can you please provide web or other contact info about this scheme. Thanks kindly Adam
    Posted by AdamS on 21/11/2008 12:22:21
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  110. Hi, I really don't know what to do. I have just under a year left at discount rate on my mortgage, which is currently £140,000 after the discount rate my payments go up to over £1,000 a month. The problem we have is the value of the house will be less in a years time and we went self cert so we got no chance of remortgaging. What are the chances of our mortgage company giving us another deal after the discount rate? What I have been considering is selling now if I can get £140,000 because my mortgage company have offered no redemption fee and give us £7,000 cash back if we repay by the end of December this year. I thought of buy and rent back because we don't really want to move yet but when I read up on rent back they don't pay much and I have to have £140,000 I paid £156,500 in July 2007. Another reason I would like to sell now is because I want to save a deposit and buy a house in a year or two at rock bottom price so I have a smaller mortgage and be able to go with a high-street bank. I am panicking at the moment because I got until the end of December if I sell. Is this the right thing to do? I'm not struggling at the moment but if the payments go up by £200 a month I think I will.
    Posted by michelle james on 20/11/2008 20:30:04
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  111. Hi, We are both in our 60s and want to move to a bungalow. We have some savings which we could use to buy a small bungalow and some cash for updating the property. I would like to remain in our present house while the property is being updated but my husband would like to sell our house first and then rent until the property is completed. I have suggested renting out our property if we cannot sell but he won't do it.
    Posted by Hilda on 20/11/2008 06:03:20
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  112. What is the most efficient way of researching for the property of choice? I have spent hours on the internet, with little or no properties falling within the requirements. Is it a case of finding agents within the area and being on their books? It seems so simple when watching such programs on tv, being given the pick of 3. Our needs are probably limiting but our area sweep is extensive and not restrictive Cambs, Suffolk, anywhere around this area. We require a 4 bed with gran annexe accommodation with a warehouse/barn for our mailorder business. The aim is to consolidate exspenses ie 2 x properties and renting of a barn/warehouse (with mezzanine we put in amounts to some 4500 sq ft). Our ceiling price is in region of £900,000. Thank-you
    Posted by Brian on 19/11/2008 22:41:30
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  113. i am about to put a £63,000 deposit on a flat i'm buying for £174000 the flat was bought by the vendor in mar 2006 for £175,000 he has put in a new wooden floor and kitchen am i paying to much for it in this market
    Posted by alison on 19/11/2008 18:28:55
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  114. Hi Phil and Kirstie, I am in the process of buying a newly built (one off, non estate) three bed detached bungalow for £280000. The valuation will be carried out by our mortgage company, but can you help me on which type of survey should I have a Homebuys or a Snagging survey? Many thanks
    Posted by Mike on 19/11/2008 17:24:55
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  115. Hi phil and kirstie, can you help i am in the process of buying a three bed detached bungalow for £145000 in a suffolk village, i am now at the point of signing the contracts but the property is in need of major renovation, electrics heating water kitchen bathroom, basicly alot, i now feel as house prices continue to fall i will be in negative equity straight away,i also feel bullied with the whole process as the vendour is HSBC bank acting on behalf of deceased owner, the offer was made 6 week ago and i now feel it was to much! can i renegotiate the price at this time , note the property has been on the market since febuary 08 and i have been the only one to make an offer for it , to make it even harder the bungalow next door has just been put on the market for £4k more than what ive offered but its in a much better condition ! im actually thinking of pulling out of the first one and taking a look at next door ! please help ! im a first time buyer getting very lost. thanks.
    Posted by stuart on 18/11/2008 23:06:53
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  116. Hi John You're in a similar situation to many people in this country. What can you do to sell? I wouldn't try at the moment. No one will look to buy before Christmas. You might be better taking it off the market for now and trying again next year. As for renting, if the local market is flooded with similar properties, you might find it difficult to rent. In the end, it all comes down to money - ie, dropping your price if you can. Do you have to sell? Could you wait until next year?
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:51:07
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  117. Hi Sue This isn't the type of thing Phil would normally advise on, and without seeing the room, neither can I. What does your architect suggest?
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:48:13
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  118. Hi Lynn Did you get this in writing as part of the sale? If it's not in writing, it's doubtful you can enforce it, in which case it's down to you. In future, don't complete until this type of thing is sorted. Sorry!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:45:57
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  119. I live in Scotland and i am desperate to buy a flat. I am trying to save for a deposit, however i heard on your show about a goverment scheme to lend you an interest free deposit. When i checked this is only in England. Is there something similar in scotland and if not...how unfair?!?!
    Posted by Nicole on 18/11/2008 19:17:00
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  120. Hi Alex. So sorry, but this is too tricky a situation for me to answer. You need to speak to the Citizen's Advice Bureau and/or an INDEPENDENT financial advisor. And do it soon.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:11:19
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  121. Hi Tracey Same answer as above!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:09:31
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  122. Hi Pat We can't really advise you about your finances - it's way to complicated and involved. Can I suggest you contact an INDEPENDENT financial advisor to go through the options?
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:07:31
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  123. Hi Jane You're probably asking the most frequently asked question ever - when will the market hit rock bottom so that I can get the best price? Unfortunately if we could scientifically know when that was, we'd all be rich! The market's predicted to continue to drop for the next few months - but you just can never tell. Want to buy it? Can you afford it? Go for it...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:05:52
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  124. Hi Paul What does your contract with them say? How much will you lose if you step out now? How does that compare to what you are losing on the price? I think that will help you answer the question. Further to that, how long are you hoping to live there? Assuming it's long term, you could confidently hope that the price might rise again in the future. Do the sums first, work out your long term plans, and you should have your answer.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:03:47
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  125. Hi Philippa. There are various things you can do here. Once you've been turned down, do you go back and offer abit more, underlining the strength of your position (ie, ready to move, no chain, etc). In fact, do you ensure that's what the estate agent says in the first place? Clinching the deal is all about negociating and underlining your strengths. It may be that you get turned down because people have dropped their prices as low as they can afford. Have you asked them this? Or, it may be that they're holding out for a better offer. I'd try again, if I was you!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 19:00:40
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  126. Hi Elaine Wow - your question is almost impossible to answer! It's a good time to buy, should you be interested in storing up money for the future. If you've been happy renting for many years and don't want the hassle of homeownership, I'd stay as you are... I think it's almost as simple as that...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/11/2008 18:57:49
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  127. Hi Phil, I've had an offer accepted on a reposessed property but the conveyancing process is delayed due to the fact that some info regarding the lease does not exist.Is there anything that I can do or should I walk away from it?thanks
    Posted by Teresa on 18/11/2008 15:41:11
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  128. my daughter is demolishing a house to rebuild on the sight.To make a start she has to disconnect electricity,but the council have said they cant get round to it till the new year.Is there any way she can get this done quicker,so she can make a start. many thanks.Barbara Brand
    Posted by b.brand on 18/11/2008 14:43:09
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  129. I watched your show yesterday and wanted to find out some info on Claudia Reyes, First Time Buyer - government scheme that helps buyers in her situation and secured an interest free loan of £89,000. Can you please provide web or other contact info about this scheme. Kind regards Lara
    Posted by Lara on 18/11/2008 14:14:23
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  130. Please help I have to sell my fathers 3 bedroom detached bungalow in Cornwall its been on the market since April 2007 unfortunately he has dementia and has had to go into a residential home I need as much as I can for the property as the proceeds will have to drip feed into the home fees I have reduced the price by ?30,000 its now on the market for just under 220,000 its only just been reduced & the reduced price has generated interest one of the offers is 205,000 the estate agent has said to accept this offer and they could leave the property on the market until exchange of contracts in case a better offer was to transpire in the meantime. The interested party have no property to sell are renting and have money in the bank they have been interest in the bungalow since it first went on the market last year when they offered 220.00 for it(in hindsight I wish I had accepted) the thing that worries me is that as they are in a strong position the contracts would be exchanged quickly not giving enough time to see if there are any better offers another offer is for 200.000 these people have not even got their property on the market but will put it on the market with the same agents I am selling with I can afford to not sell the bungalow for perhaps a year I have never sold a house in my life and am completely out of my depth could you please help
    Posted by Lynda on 18/11/2008 12:51:35
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  131. Hi, We have rented for 28 years, and have now decided to BUY our final move, we have approx., £150K however that will not buy us the property we would like, as we are looking at property around £230/£280 I see our options as TRY and get finance for around £80k to get us the property we like, and pay off over ten years (my husband is 61 and is self employed, earnings approx., £60/£70K)or buy one property outright and let out and finance another on that property and let out, keep both for about five years and sell, then move on and buy the property we would like to live in for the rest of our lives. Then again as we have NO one to leave anything to, we could carry on renting, but would have to move from our present property due to getting older, however, if we rent we would need to stay in the rented property for the rest of our lives, this cannot be guaranteed that we could do this. We really do not know what to do....HELP
    Posted by Elaine on 17/11/2008 23:36:05
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  132. My husband and I are first time buyers ready to move with a morgage agreed in principle and have been looking in devon for sometime, each property we have made an offer on has been refused yet we ourselves have only been deducting 10% off the asking price. How can you know what it the correct price to be paid? Also one of the properties you showed on your show this evening we made a reasonable offer on, in light of your programme do we re-ofer or assume that the couple are unwiling to drop by 10%? I hope you may be able to help us or suggest how we could proceed so that we can finally get onto the property ladder.
    Posted by Philippa Allard on 17/11/2008 23:00:19
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  133. I have paid 10% deposit on a new build two bed apartment in Liverpool with secure parking in July 2007. It was of plan and it was to be valued at 120000 when completed in Nov 2008. I paid 108000 for the apartment. It is within 2KM of the royal Liverpool University Hospital. It is time for me to follow through as it is completed on site. As I am a first time buyer I am worried. It is not worth the value that was anticipated. Should I complete the purchase. I have signed the contract. I am wondering should I pull out. Would I lose all my deposit. Could they sue me for the remainder of the value. I have a mortgage set up and just needs signed. I know these questions are not easy to answer. But if the value is below what I have paid should I pull out of the deal and lose the 10%depoist and buy a cheaper 2 bed apartment. AAAAAAAAAAAhhhhhhhhhh. HELP
    Posted by Paul on 17/11/2008 22:59:10
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  134. Why was there no mention of Northern Ireland in the program tonight? House prices here rose further and faster (a bigger bubble 175% increase from 2002 to 2007) than anywhere else, and have fallen by 30% already - with far more to go (further 50% to reach 2002 prices). But no mention of this on the still upbeat 3L's - too much reality for the bubble blowers? And why are you still talking about "the Property Ladder" - more like the "property snake" now...
    Posted by John C on 17/11/2008 22:57:12
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  135. hi, i have some money in the bank, enough to enable me to buy my council house outright without having to borrow any . is it a good idea to buy now or to wait a little while .
    Posted by jane on 17/11/2008 22:46:08
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  136. Phil, Kirsty mentioned tonight that her FTB client had a mortgage promise and had agreed a 2year fixed rate. How did she manage to secure the rate and a full mortgage offer without having a property to buy. My understanding is that you can only book the rate when you have had a survey carried out and offered on the property. The one exeption being the Nationwide. The term "Mortgage Promise" would lead me to think that this is with HBoS as they are the only ones that use this name for an AIP.
    Posted by Wilson on 17/11/2008 22:43:40
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  137. Dear Phil, I currently own my 3 bedroom semi with no mortgage, my son is looking to buy his 1st property and with the current problems with banks lending money for 1st time buyers i was thinking of re-mortgaging my property in order to purchase a 2nd house for my son. My son and his partner would be the persons responsibly for the repayment of the mortgage, what would be the best way to approach this, my son and his partner earn a sensible wage so repayments wont be a problem. Many thanks for your advice in advance.
    Posted by Pat1946 on 17/11/2008 22:31:39
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  138. We have had our guest house on the market since Easter2007. We are both self employed & over 60.We have a ?60,000 commercial mortgage and just want to pay that off and then only have to earn enough to live on. My husband is an Electrical Test Engineer and has work off and on and tourism is nearly non existent at the moment so we have completely depleted our funds. Have you any suggestions to what we can do.We have dropped the price of our house ?50,000 already but percentage wise our mortgage is getting bigger so we are really worried that if we do not sell it soon, we won't have hardly anything left to buy with. Regards Elaine Hine
    Posted by Perfick Piece on 17/11/2008 22:26:58
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  139. hi i am a full time student and i am thinking of buyinh my first home. I live in south west scotland and only have a 5% deposit to put down. I have seen a lovely flat for offers over 77000 but am unsure if i should try to sort out a mortgage at the bank or wait and see what happens to the market? I am worried if i dont buy now i might not be able too
    Posted by tracey on 17/11/2008 22:26:39
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  140. Please help! I bought a property 2 years ago with a 100% mortgage but had to move out due to a very undesireable neighbour and fearing for my safety. I moved in with my partner but struggled to pay the mortgage still. We have recently had a baby and I am now on maternity leave and can no longer afford to pay my mortgage. I can't sell the property due to the neighbour and negative equity, I have let the property in the past but had to get court action to remove non paying tenants. We are now broke, can I hand the keys back to my house and declare myself bankrupt to pay off the outstanding debt to the mortgage company? I know this is extreme but I feel that it's my only option!
    Posted by alex on 17/11/2008 21:31:23
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  141. i have just brought a house and the report says i need some new tiles on the roof. the seller told me he would do this and he has not, now i have leaks in my bathroom and you can see the sky in the loft. where do i stand on this matthave to pay for these repairs.er, will i have to pay or will the seller
    Posted by lynn on 17/11/2008 15:31:33
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  142. WE have a property in Ascot whereby the house has been up for sale over 9 months -so far no takers-price was about £595k today the market is so flat that no-one is interested in-So we have decided to let the property which is a 4 bedroom house- so far no takers- People have no confidence in the market place- So what advice can you give us -would a make over help- So suggestions would be very much appreciated, Best regards, John Chapman
    Posted by John Chapman on 17/11/2008 14:23:06
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  143. dear phil The foundations are currently being dug on our first new build, but we are struggling with planning the internal positioning of a free standing log burner in what will be our main lounge.Not sure where it will be best placed. There will be underfloor central heating and the lounge dimensions are 4300m x 8.979, with double doors at one end and windows at the opposite. The obvious spot would be the centre of the longest free wall (outside wall), but we would like the fire offset to accommodate a large screen tv. The wall at right angles to the long wall juts out only 0.8m before the double doors begin so insufficient space there. We could bring it away from the corner but would it look strange and what about the dead space left between fire and corner? Also is it possible to have the chimney pipe offset from the ridge of the house? Thank you
    Posted by sue on 16/11/2008 12:39:06
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  144. Hi Phil, I have a 4 bedroom bungalow and have recently purchased a lane that runs alongside my property. This allows for building up and out to one side effectively more than doubling the size of the property from a 4 bed 2 bathroom single storey to a 5 bed 3 bath 2 storey property. Outside the current property climate, would you feel I would be adding value and potential profit to the property? More details can be provided if required.
    Posted by Dave on 15/11/2008 18:15:01
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  145. I bought my first Flat in 2004 in north somerset and sold it in 2006 for a profit - my work then took me to manchester and I bought a new build apartment in castlefield in 2006 - i am obviously one of the people that bought at the end of the boom with a 15 percent deposit and am worried about all the bad press these type of new apartments are getting. What is your view on these. Also I would like to move next year so I think the best thing is to rent it out until the market recovers?
    Posted by Scott on 11/11/2008 23:06:10
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  146. I am having underfloor heating installed in the downstairs of my chalet bungalow. In the kitchen/diner I will be having ceramic tiles but it was suggested to me that it would not be sensible to have carpets fitted in the two downstairs bedrooms or the lounge area. Can you help me with suggestions of the best floor covering for the most effective and efficient covering for underfloor heating?
    Posted by Joan Patten on 11/11/2008 21:40:41
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  147. Our daughter moved to central London from Scotland in September for her first year at Uni. She is currently staying in Halls, but as parents we feel she should be thinking about accommadation for next year. Could any one provide ANY useful information to finding flats that are not a rip off in central london
    Posted by Steven Little on 08/11/2008 17:36:03
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  148. can anyone actually find out what the knowledge is regarding these get rich quick websites or make yourself a million in 18 months as i would love to know what they are supposed to know. sites to check are gladwish land sales, unique land opertunity mike bloxom and andy shaw please reply ASAP Many thanks
    Posted by Mr Horsley on 07/11/2008 16:30:27
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  149. dear Phil , Please, please help. My son and his fiancee have been trying to sell their 1 bedroomed flat in Southsea for almost a year - they have just had their first child and are desperate to move into a 2/3 Bedroomed accomodation - please help them sell this property. Regards, William Moss.
    Posted by william moss on 05/11/2008 21:40:30
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  150. Dear Phil, We are a couple living in rented accommodation in London where we have been for 6ish years. Lots of our friends are now living down here but we now feel it is time to move out of London and into a more relaxed way of life. My husbands family are from Leicester and mine live in Worcester but neither of us are keen to live in either of those places. How do we decide where to move to if we don't have a reason to go there and don't know anyone who lives there? My husband was hoping to live nearer the sea as he is interested in diving and we both like the outdoors. However, I am hoping to live nearer to the my family so I have them close when we start to have a family in the near future! I don't want to live in Worcestershire however, and I can also see why my husband would like to live nearer to the sea. We live the countryside and love walking. We would compromise but there is no where nice nearer to my family near the sea. A part of me would like to live near the sea also. My oldest sister has moved to Bude in Cornwall from Worcestershire in order to have a better way of life and it really seems like they are. I am sure there are so many people in their 30's who have had enough of living in London and want to move but have no ideas where to go. What advice to you have for them? How do we tackle the fact that we don't know where is good to move to generally? Urgent plea. As we have been going round in circles for years and are still sitting in a one bed cramped flat in London!!!!! It would be fantastic if you could respond. xx
    Posted by Kate on 04/11/2008 12:44:39
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  151. hi phil i thought we talk english here in b.c. canada but ya know sometimes you blokes are hard to understand ya know what im saying.your show is super please come and check out beautiful Vancouver Island and check out this real estate.You and Kirstie are bang on. Best of Luck Ray and Nadine
    Posted by ray on 01/11/2008 03:05:27
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  152. Where can I find online guidance concerning staged builders contacts and if I am looking to have an extension built what should those stages of build be. What should I be budgeting and for and what is the order in which an extension build and renovation project should proceed in. Is there a site where I can download this sort of information for free?
    Posted by Roy Haggerty on 30/10/2008 08:01:57
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  153. dear Phil,i am at the moment trying to sell my flat in the east london area to no avail,i had a few potential buyers, but the banks are not interested in flats that are concrete built and also because it is a 14 story block.and will not not lend on them. I am at a loss of what i can do with the sale of this two bed room flat would you have any idea of what i can do with the sale now or in the future this is a ex council flat. with regards Joan.
    Posted by Joan on 28/10/2008 18:10:52
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  154. dear Phil,i am at the moment trying to sell my flat in the east london area to no avail,i had a few potential buyers, but the banks are not interested in flats that are concrete built and also because it is a 14 story block.and will not not lend on them. I am at a loss of what i can do with the sale of this two bed room flat would you have any idea of what i can do with the sale now or in the future this is a ex council flat. with regards Joan.
    Posted by Joan on 28/10/2008 18:08:10
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  155. Want to make an offer on a property which is leasehold. Problem being that the land is stated to be held for a term of unknown years created by a lease 26th January 1686. yet no-one knows who the holder is or how many years the lease is for! The land registry does not hold the information so where else can we look?
    Posted by gray on 26/10/2008 12:57:51
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  156. Phil Not sure if you can help with this one or provide some guidance. I am planning on a single storey extension to the rear of my property and would like to know if there is anyway of finding out what type of foundation the house was built on. The reason for asking is so as I can get a more exact cost since prices can vary if it is a concrete raft as oppsoed to the traditional type of footings. The property is around thirteen years old and brought from new from Redrow Homes. Just wondering if this type of information is recorded with the local council in archived records by the house builder. Thanks Bob
    Posted by Bob on 22/10/2008 21:35:59
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  157. Hi Phil I have recently acquired some money and part share of a house with my sister. Firstly, should i buy out my sister and then rent the house? And with regards to the money i want to buy a property of my own and work from home. I have been looking at property around 200,000 in village locations,and i am not restricted to an area, where might be the best place to buy?
    Posted by Debbie on 22/10/2008 12:47:03
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  158. Dear Phil After many years searching for that dream property, I have fallen head over heels in love with a property that is due to go up for auction next month. The problem, where do I start. Unless you are rich you never get a chance at the auctioneers. I know I could sell mine tomorrow to purchase this property, however, I would not move from my present house if I did'nt get the house of my dreams. At auctioneers you never know what the property will sell for - as I am sure you already know. I am desperate and appealing for a 'Santa'to purchase this 'one off gem' just until we have sold our own. And yes, our house is sellable and in the right LOCATION! What do you think Phil a potential Xmas special for you and kirsty. Which one of you would be Santa? I have a feeling you are going to say to me on your bike? Everyday I am counting down the days to the auction and how it is slipping away from me. Hope you can help! Lorna.
    Posted by Lorna - Lancashire on 22/10/2008 12:15:40
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  159. We're interested in getting ourselves a small place in the South of France or the Basque Country to use increasingly over the next 10 years and to end up spending the summers in whilst retaining our home and roots in Manchester. We've got lots of vague ideas about what we want but nothing very concrete - although we have spent three summers in these areas in the past five years so know broadly that this is where we want to buy. We both have very busy jobs and don't have the time to do all of the research required to do this properly ourselves. However, at the same time we don't know what's the best way of employing someone to do the sort of leg work that you do on the show. How do we go about getting someone we can trust?? Tony
    Posted by Tony R on 20/10/2008 23:05:59
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  160. Location, Location, Location
    Posted by Carlos on 20/10/2008 16:10:57
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  161. ive just finished university and would love a job in property sourcing. how would i get into doing that?
    Posted by Lucy Hunnisett on 10/10/2008 20:02:00
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  162. Canadians want to come home. Hello Phil & Kirstie My very good friends have lived in the UK for the past 12 years and are now ready to come home to Canada to retire. The problem is they can't sell their house. It's been on the market since Feb of this year. Can you help? Here is the link to their home. It's a really beautiful home with lovely garden. Keeping fingers crossed for our snow birds to come home. cheers, Pauline Clarke
    Posted by Pauline on 10/10/2008 13:33:15
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  163. Hi Dave No, you almost certainly can't - just as she can't force you to accept a low offer. You need to see a solicitor (and if you can't afford that, the Citizen's Advice Bureau) - fast.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 08/10/2008 14:46:48
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  164. Hi there, I have split up from my unfaithful partner 7 months ago. She is now living in the property with our kids and her new fella. In the last 7 months she has changed the mortgage in to an interest only mortgage with out my concent. I have also lost my job and I am practiaccllly homeless. I need my half of the equity but she keeps saying that she can't afford to buy me out, when I know she could. She is useing my current postion against me by offering me very low offers for my half. Although I am in a despreate postion I will not accept her low offers, and I'd prefer for her not to keep the house which I have paid the mortgage for over the last 7 years. Therefore I have been wondering if I could sell my half of the property to another interested party. Although I don't know anyone at present who would do this? Or if it's leagal? could I do this ? And if so how would I go about selling my half of the house??? Thanks Dave Barlow
    Posted by Dave on 06/10/2008 10:57:50
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  165. Hi Deborah DAMP Well, damp's a funny one. You can get it treated and it'll still get in one way or another. But you know what, I don't think, if the patches are minimal, that it's the end of the world. Your building won't fall down and there are things you can do to tackle it. We've got a couple of features on damp - have a look at them: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/diy-self-build/diy-build-advice/a-z-of-diy-building-guides/how-to-spot-and-deal-with-damp-08-05-27_p_1.html. This will give you an idea of what you're dealing with. Then I suggest you get a specialist from a damp company in to give you some idea of what you're dealing with. I've had my basement tanked completely - cost £2,000 and there are still patches here and there where the builders have had to do extra work and have (unwisely) disturbed the damp proof course. However, it's something I can get fixed (at a little more expense and bother), but it's not stressing me unduly). Damp becomes a problem when it's really really bad, when the building smells of it... and of course, when you're looking to sell and people (like you) are put off by it. Conclusion: it's not unfixable and it needn't cost the earth.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 03/10/2008 14:54:01
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  166. Hi; obsessed with all property shows! and obsessed in particular with old buildings; I am single parent; limited funds; have put offer in on old seafront house (sash windows etc) in Ireland (has been split into apartments, done very well; new kitchens, carpets etc but as it's old and near sea my friend (came for 2nd viewing with me who is in the trade) says it's damp which he says in unavoidable in an old building by the sea, but he can't tell how extensive, says it does look in good structural state & that builder has done lots of things to alleviate damp... rendering downstairs bottom outside; pipes etc new wiring & plumbing & only 2 of 5 apts occupied so just isn't being ventilated or heat on enough to dry out but wont know extent till survey done (if offer accepted) the one I looked at is also 3rd floor up so damp not as bad at all; but am aware that things can be nightmare with old buildings; bottomless pit when money is involved etc which beyond the funds to purchase it I just wouldn't have if it became that nightmare... (subject to survey) would you advise in this circumstance that this is just a bad plan or if offer is accepted; could I still have my dream?? how much is acceptable when a surveyor turns up...what are the signs that it's going to be trouble?? endless problems or could it be possible that it is just a small damp problem that could be sorted easily?? Sorry bout the novel and thank you for taking the time to read this, much appreciated Kind regards Deborah - Ireland
    Posted by Deborah J on 01/10/2008 20:33:47
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  167. Hi Andrew LOWERING YOUR OFFER Yes, you could try this - but you may risk losing the house you're offering on - or slow down the chain so much you slow it to a stop. In other words, it's possible, but risky, as always to do so, and the gain may be minimal. It's likely in doing so, you'll force the people you're buying from to get a reduction from the people they're buying from... and so on.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 18:59:50
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  168. TAKING PART IN THE SHOW Anyone interested in this, please go to www.channel4.com/takepart. Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 18:57:02
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  169. Hi Helen Structural survey: this is a sensible option by your buyer - they'll only use it to get money off if there's something seriously wrong with your house, so don't worry!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 18:55:22
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  170. Hi Georgina Phil's answer is always the same when it comes to finding you a location (assuming you're not taking part in the show!) and that is you have to move somewhere you'll be happy. In other words, within reach of work, friends, somewhere with good schools, facilities and open spaces. To find this, sorry, you're going to have to research it yourself - or go to channel4.com/takepart to sign up! Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 18:53:51
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  171. Hi Rhiannon I really sympathise with your situation - but it's sadly no different to many others' around the country. What does your estate agent say? Do they think you need to drop the price again? I don't think prices are going to go up over the next few months, so it might be better to do that now than have to drop it further in months to come. That said, now is a terrible time to have a house on the market - and Christmas is on its way, so that means fewer buyers still. Can I suggest you read our features - 30 Ways To Sell Your Home Quickly and 30 Ways To Improve Your Home (use the search box for a quick find). They'll both help you ensure your home is absolutely 100% perfect for sale, should you be lucky enough to find a buyer. Also, the first article will help you find ways to aggressively market your home. Good luck
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 18:51:20
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  172. Hi Garry You don't actually say whether you are property developing or doing up your own home. Supposing it is the former, I would stick to tiles - it's likely future buyers will see the finish you are talking about as tricky to maintain (and you have no precedent to ensure it is easy to look after). Also, since there's only one UK supplier, anyone looking to maintain the finish may have difficulty getting supplies in the future.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 18:35:46
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  173. Hi Lee No I don't think you can sue them - I'm not sure on what grounds you'd do so. However, you could probably have a stiff word with them about it. Looking on the bright side, it might mean you get a nice family in the house who will do it up and make it presentable - and that can't hurt the value of your home.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 14:58:33
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  174. Hi Amy I'd say it was premature to say that the market will 'boom' again in 2012 - hopefully by then, it might have settled down though. My advice at the moment is: if you don't have to sell, don't. There are very few buyers out there, it's a terrible time of year to put a house on the market and no one is making decent offers. If you can afford to wait, at least until the new year, do so. After that, the picture might have changed a little. We're doing regular forecasts - keep your eyes on them!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 14:57:01
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  175. Hi Vasumathi Well, this is a tricky one because unless I can actually get into the room and see what its proportions are like, what your current furniture is like and how the light affects the room, it's pretty impossible for me to advise about colour schemes. Over the next few weeks we'll be putting up lots of picture galleries with inspirational rooms - can I suggest you check out the schemes in these? Failing that, if you're looking for romance, red is said to inspire passion...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 14:54:51
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  176. Hi Yvonne This is really going to be down to what your vendor feels comfortable with. You are potentially in a good position, but until you can realise some of your assets, you are unable to appeal to your vendor as much as a firm offer could do. Sound them out about leasing their property - it's likely they'll insist on a cast-iron contract with you to ensure you don't back out of the deal and put them back on the market. Most important, you need to underline to them just how interested you are - and in this case, actions speak louder than words.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 14:52:39
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  177. Hi Doreen There are various ways to do this. First and most obvious, speak to three estate agents in your area and get their opinions. Second, go to somewhere like www.upmystreet.com, where you can easily research current and past house prices in your area.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 14:49:19
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  178. Hi Karina (and anyone else looking to LIVE ABROAD), Can I redirect you to our sister site, www.aplaceinthesun.com - there will be fuller information for you there about living and working abroad.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 30/09/2008 14:47:59
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  179. My mum has purchased a home in Turkey (off plan). However in the current financial climate she is struggling to sell her property in Perth Scotland. She needs to sell before 12th Dec 2008. The property itself is in very good condition, however there is no furniture. Do you think it would sell better with furniture? Can you give me any suggestions regarding what we can do to impove selling?
    Posted by Julie on 30/09/2008 14:13:03
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  180. Hi, I am about to start preparing for a major structural remodeling of my current house, and I am wondering if there are any step by step guides you can get, and how to prepare a Budget, and Project plan? Thanks! David
    Posted by David Kennett on 30/09/2008 12:44:30
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  181. We are looking at emigrating to Canada. My husband is a Contracts Manager in Construction/shop fitting, but also has several years experience in welding and fabrication. We were wondering what the best location in Canada would be, preferably with a dry climate. Our house is on the market at the moment, and we have engaged a citizen & immigration consultant company (Willis & Brazelot). Do you have any information regarding this company. Any other information you might have would be very helpful. Thank you Karina
    Posted by Karina on 29/09/2008 21:42:19
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  182. Hi there Can anybody tell me how to work out a sellable price for my home, a 2-bedroom, semi, with garage in Colchester Essex. (in popular area) It was bought in 2004 for £55,000. but I don't know what the increase was for the 3 years up to 2007, or the decrease up to date. Any info would be gratefully received. Thanks
    Posted by Doreen Hickman on 27/09/2008 12:01:41
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  183. I have put in an offer to purchase an activity centre with a 5 bedroom bungalow in Scotland. The offer would be accepted expect that I have to sell my own property in Northern Ireland first. The estate agent agree to keep me informed and I put my house on the market 2 days ago. I rang the estate agent in scotland who informed me the owner has now had an offer to lease the property for 10 years and it is with the solictor to arrange agreement. I spoke to the owner direct who was on holiday and he agreed to speak to me next week. I do not want to lose this property as I can find no other similar properties for sale. I wish to seek you advise on how to proceed. I can not get funding as this is it viewed as a business venture, and Northern Ireland banks will not lend for Scottish property. I am going to discuss with the owner next week that we lease or rent the property until our premises sell, but am unsure as to what leverage or how appealling this will be to the vendor. Can you advise me please. I have an offer of £700,000 on the scottish property which would be acceptable if it were a cash offer. I have my own house up for sale this week for £1,150,000 which I have been assurred will be an achievable offer. I can not raise a morgage as I would not have proven earnings if I move to the new business. I have also a potential building site with 5 acres in northern ireland which I have applied for planning permission to be heard in the spring, but am not sure if this would be considered as collateral and its value would be debatable pending planning permission. I am unsure how to proceed and would welcome any help. Yvonne
    Posted by Yvonne Kelly on 25/09/2008 14:20:59
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  184. Dear phil, We have recently moved into a newly built modern terrace house. The living room lacks character and we are planning to change it. It's just two of us and we normally enjoy the company of each other. I would like to have a small dining table and have romantic candle light dinners some evening. I am just confused on the colour of the wallpaper or paint I should go for and also the colour of the furnitures. We both like soft colours but couldn't decide what will be the most appreciable colour. Can u help us please
    Posted by Vasumathi on 24/09/2008 12:09:19
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  185. hi iam wanting toosell my home and purchase a park home in spain in a comunity please can you advice, wont to live in the sun
    Posted by christopher pickard on 22/09/2008 14:25:07
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  186. Hi, Myself and my partner currently have 2 properties with very different prospects.We are looking at the best options in order to move in together. We both live in mid glamorgan S Wales, he has a close to city 3 bedroom house with a mortgage to the approx value of the property,approx £115,000. I live approx 8miles into the valley with a mortgage of £52,000 (after a full refurbishment) with 2/3 bedrooms,the equatiy on my house would be fairly £40,000 at todays date. Would it be better to sell his now if we can get an asking price, and live in mine,this would be better for monthly cashflow? looking at market assumptions i wounder if it would be better to actually hold onto his and to rent and buy another next year as its predicted to boom again in 2012, any advice?
    Posted by Amy Holton on 22/09/2008 11:59:39
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  187. Dear Phil, The house next door is for sale but needs a good deal of work. the estate agent (who is also the ones who sold our house to us) are giving people floor plans of our house without telling us or with our permission. can i sue them for this. thank you Lee
    Posted by Lee Chesters on 20/09/2008 09:07:59
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  188. Hi Phil, I am currently knocking my bathroom about and my question is more on the product side as against property development etc. therefore I would be grateful for your expert advice.Both my wife and myself are probably set on tiling the bathroom walls but I recently came across another product ironically on one of Sarah Beeney's Property Ladder shows.The product I saw was Clay Plaster which was used on the house walls, and which is manufactured in Holland, and after subsequently speaking with their sole distributer in London I understand that the Tierrafino Clay Plaster can be used on Bathroom walls and is made in different colours.I suspect therefore you will have heard of the product but overall would you consider this as a means of an alternative to tiling the walls,and equally from a property Investment issue which of the two in your mind would be more realistic to consider. I would appreciate your comments on this. Kind Regards, Garry Sargeant
    Posted by Garry Sargeant on 19/09/2008 12:56:46
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  189. Dear Phil, we have had our house on the market since last Sept, unfortunately we went with an unsuitable Agent at the start (they didnt use the property websites) since then we have stayed on with the original as they were taken over, and tried two others. We have had no negative feedback from the handful of viewings we have had an dropped the price twice, we cant drop anymore as we only bought 2 years ago as 1st time buyers so it would then go into negative equity. We urgently need to move as I am struggling to find a job, but if we rent it wont cover the mortgage. Now we have been told we have to pay for a EPC within the next two weeks or else it needs to come of the market. The situation feels so desparate.
    Posted by Rhiannon Harker on 19/09/2008 11:54:41
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  190. Dear Phil, We have a three bedroomed house with fully contained Granny annexe, bedroom en-suite, kitchen, lounge and conservatory. And we would like to reach this 'un-usual' market. Can you please advise as to where this could be done? We are already with an estate agent, but feel that our house is getting lost within the 'standard' house market. Your help would be appretiated. Regards the Maitlands.
    Posted by Robert Maitland on 16/09/2008 14:42:56
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  191. My husband and I are currently living in Blackheath, London. We both work in the city, but are looking to move next year, to a larger house with more land and potential of being a nice family home one day. Our problem is deciding on where, my parents live in Bristol and James parents live in Writtle in Essex. I would like to be alot closer to my parents, but we still dont want to commute more than an hr to work and we dont want to be too far from James parents either. Trying to look for a house is proving impossible as we are searching 4 county's !! Help... We are looking to spend up to 850k. James has a lot of requests though, he would like, a large front to the house/ nice drive, large garden with potential for a pool and or out buildings, I would like a large kitchen with doors onto the garden and I would rather have a few large rooms than lots of little ones. We love glass, high ceilings and lots of light. We are also prepared to build something. I hope you can help with some suggestions on location. Kind regards, Georgina.
    Posted by Georgina Potter on 15/09/2008 13:20:06
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  192. A single mum in South East London. Please HELP! I need help to improve and re-decorate my 3 bed flat for a quick let. HELP ASAP NEEDED!!
    Posted by Amanda on 15/09/2008 11:28:43
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  193. Hi Phil, please help as I don't know what to do! I live in a particularly expensive area (Bournemouth) where average propery prices are sill way above average wages, despite the current downturn. I am a divorced mum of two (daughter, 15 son, 21) so only one salary coming in. I am fortunate to have qualified for government help in the form of Open Market Homebuy, or I wouldn't be able to buy my own home at all - I've been stuck in private rented since my divorce 12 years ago. I have been given a max. purchase price of £155800, which is 60% mortgate 40% gov. loan. The problem is, living is such an expensive area, and needing 3 bedrooms, I can only afford a property in one of several very dubious areas - i.e. red light areas or those which you'd be frightened to walk alone at night in, neither of which I want, especailly with a 15 year old girl, who more and more wants freedom to go out alone. Either that or something which is unsuitable i.e. too small for three adults, or with no parking - I'm an Essential Car User at work so must have my car to do my job (Houing Officer, ironically enough!). In additon, my daugher is in her final year at school, half way through her GCSE's, so my search area is very restricted until she leaves school; and my son will be going to university next year, alghough I still feel I need three bedrooms for when he comes home during the holidays, tho' I'm quite happy for the 3rd bedroom to be very small; as long as I can fit a bed and chest of drawres in that's fine. So, do I buy now and spend a small fortune on something I don't like and/or that isn't really suitable just to get on the ladder. Or do I wait, perhaps until my situation chages next year, either due to my daugher leaving school, or my son leaving home? Please bear in mind I don't know how long the government help will be available for and if that is withdrawn, I am back to having no chance of owning my own home. Any advice you can offer would be extremely gratefully accepted. Many thanks, Deborah
    Posted by Deborah Nicholas on 13/09/2008 11:21:49
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  194. Hi Phil I have just recieved a copy of the HIP for the property I am helping my elderley mother buy but I cann't see that it is of any use. Am I missing something? or is it just another waste of money
    Posted by Marj on 12/09/2008 19:34:33
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  195. Hello, I think this is a bit of an unusual request but have a number of years experience in the property industry both the legal and agency side and have been considering setting up a residential property consultancy service. I would be grateful for any advice you might be able to offer. Many thanks.
    Posted by Lisa Williams on 12/09/2008 14:52:20
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  196. I have had an offer on my property and the buyer has had their motgage approved they have now asked to have a structural survey is this something I should be worried about? Do you think they might use it as a way of getting a reduced price or pull out altogether?
    Posted by Helen Daw on 11/09/2008 09:06:06
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  197. We are putting our house on the market after christmas and we would like to move to the west country, our problem is that we both have limited walking ability, my Husband is not suposed to do much driving, so going to view property, is a problem. We will have to have a few suitable propertys to look at, as we can only travel to south west once. We need either a bungalow or a house that has a bedroom and bathroom downstairs, with two bedrooms and a bthroom upstairs, for our foster Son. Please can you suggest a semi rural location that we might find a property for around £200000 to 2500000 , we really fancy Somerset, but would be willing move elsewhere, if we could get something really nice, for the money we can afford.I would be grateful for any advice you can offer. by the way ,we live in St Marys Platt, Kent
    Posted by Brenda on 09/09/2008 20:26:06
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  198. Please inform me how I can indicate the availability of a house for TV/filming use.
    Posted by Brenda Brown on 09/09/2008 19:17:01
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  199. Hello Phil, My husband and I live on the Gold Coast Australia. We own investments properties here ( 5 ) but we have been visiting England for the last 10 years and we have family there. We have fallen in love with England, and finally decided that we want to visit on a yearly basis in the future, and would love to invest in a property there. We have been looking around Guildford Surrey, but after seeing a show tonight on a London flat you did for two young friends, we thought maybe this is what we should be doing. We'd like to enlist your help for find our own piece of England. If this is not possible, can you suggest the best place to start. Our budget is $220,000.00. Regards Heidi and King ( Mermaid Beach Gold Coast Australia )
    Posted by Heidi Fischer on 09/09/2008 11:33:37
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  200. Hi there, my name is Karen. I'm a single mum, with one 13 year old daughter called Truly. I live in a 4 bed detached house, and only have a relatively small mortgage. The property is worth approx £260,000 and my mortgage is £57,000. Finances are really tight at the moment and I'm looking to downsize. The plan I have is to be mortgage free in the uk, and hopefully buy a small apartment/property in mainland spain or majorca. I have two small endowments that mature shortly and thought with a small mortgage abroad and possible rental potential too I could maybe make my dreams come true for Truly and I. However as a single person this is quite daunting!!! I love your programme and would feel so much more confident doing all this with your expertise. Please help. Thanks Karen Thomas
    Posted by karen thomas on 09/09/2008 09:05:41
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  201. hi phil i put an offer in on a house wich was accepted i am nearly ready to sign contracts but over the last couple of months the house prices have fallen can i now put in a lower offer to compensate for this or is it to late thanks andrew
    Posted by andrew on 08/09/2008 23:37:54
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  202. Dear Kirstie and Phil I have to say I thoroughly enjoy your programme ... such an inspiration and so enlightening - what a great team you make ! I hope to enlist your help in the next 12 months or so to buy my first property [ wishes !] All the best S'the
    Posted by s'the on 08/09/2008 20:56:14
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  203. Hi all, last October we purchased a 2 bedroom 1850's cottage. The problem is that we have a downstairs bathroom that we would like to take upstairs. In addition to this, the layout doesnt quite work as extensions have been added so that downstairs, there are 7 rooms and upstairs, remain just the two bedrooms. Despite employing an architect, trying to cram what would be a very small bathroom into upstairs would detrimentally affect the size of one of the bedrooms but is this the best way to go? Would the valus of our property be worth less than if we left it as it is now? I am baffled as to what would be the right thing to do to attract buyers should we ever sell and at the same time, complete this on a very tight budget. Any advice would be gratefully received.
    Posted by Candy on 07/09/2008 12:09:07
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  204. A year ago i had building work done on my home, an extension. i was concerned about the quality of the flashing between the existing wall and the new extension. However the work was passed by the council. Now a year on there in a major leak, and water is pouring down the connecting wall. What are my rights, am i able to claim the repair costs off the builder? should the work be under a guarantee?
    Posted by colin tasker on 05/09/2008 19:08:34
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  205. Hi L NO VIEWINGS I'd be interested to find out why you have had no viewings. Is it too expensive or are buyers being put off by its location? I think you need to get this question answered to make your decision. If people are put of by the location, you've got the choice of renting it out and earning money off it (with the risk that the value may go down in the future) or taking that cash offer and running. Is it always going to be rentable, whatever the location - ie, is there a hospital or a university nearby to make it a good student let? If not, the cash offer is looking all the better. If however, people are being put off by your price, you have your answer - and the cash offer again looks good. The decision, of course, is yours - and it's really up to you to decide how much you can lose. If you decide to keep the flat, I'd suggest you contact the building's owners to see if you can solve some of its problems. Good luck
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:14:02
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  206. Hi Al TRIANGULAR PLOT I'm not clear whether you want to develop your property or sell it on with the potential for development and need help marketing it in its current state? Either way, any buyer worth their salt will be able to see the potential for adding extra space - but to be sure, during a viewing, you should always explain what could be done to make the house larger. Also, you should get your estate agent to market it with 'great potential for expansion' or something similar, followed by a few lines about what could be done. Gaining planning permission for an extension could add to the value and appeal of the house to new buyers - but in the current market that's not a given. You might be better saving your money and taking the first option of talking its potential up to future buyers. Good luck
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:08:20
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  207. Hi Rachel BUY TO RENT I've never heard of this type of scheme - and I've no idea therefore if it's monitored properly or what the risks are. Either way, it sounds extremely risky to me to get involved with such a complicated arrangement. I'll say two things: 1) do you really really have to sell at the moment? 2) the only way you will sell your house at the moment, assuming there are buyers out there, is to drop your price. The fact that you've had no viewings suggest that your price might be too high. Can I suggest you read this feature: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/buying-selling/selling-property/essential-guides-and-advice/30-ways-to-sell-your-home-in-a-flat-market-08-08-15_p_1.html. Please, please don't do anything without getting a solicitor to check over all the details.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:02:53
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  208. Hi Rebecca DOING UP YOUR HOME CHEAPLY I'd suggest you scan the rest of this site - there's loads of info about doing up your home cheaply on it...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 13:55:13
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  209. Dear Mr Spencer, I will be very grateful if you could advise me on the following matter. My husband and I are in the process of converting a small barn. We have come to the specification stage. We are not sure which external cladding will be best for us. What we are looking for is strength, durability and contemprary look. We also are wondering if the kind of timber can be treated against decay or can be oild or stained. Obviousley, we are a bit confused about the subject. Would you be kind enough to give us some advice. Best regards, Hanan Stanley,
    Posted by Mrs Hanan Stanley on 03/09/2008 14:57:19
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  210. Dear Phil, I could really use your advice. We have had our 3 bed end of terrace in Cheltenham on the market since Feb 08. We have reduced the price but have still had no offers. We have seen a house which we would love to buy. We have recently changed estate agents, and changed to the agents who are selling the property we would like to buy as we thought this would give them more incentive to sell our home. We have not even had any viewings. A couple of weeks ago, our estate agents put us in touch with a property company who deal in a 'buy to rent' scheme, which would apparently allow us to purchase another property whilst our house is rented out over a period of between 6 to 24 months and then the company/tennants buy it from us. I have never heard of this scheme before and although I am keen to sell our current property, I feel I really need some impartial expert advice to understand the implications of selling my home in this way. Are there risks in doing this? The company state that they 'babysit' mortgage/utility payments, but what does this really mean? If the tennants didnt/couldnt pay, would I run the risk of having my home repossessed? I have looked at the company website but still feel I dont have a good enough understanding of how it all works. Please help? You knowledge and expertise would be much appreciated to shed more light on this. Thanks Rachel S
    Posted by Rachel Shore-Nye on 02/09/2008 22:37:40
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  211. Hi Alison P This is one of those impossible situations... I would say, no, this is not the time to be stretching yourself with two homes, but since it's your forever home you're chasing... How cheeky was the cheeky offer on your house? And one viewing in all that time is not good news. I'd go all out to try and sell yours over the next month - get everything you can do to get your estate agent to market it. In the meantime, move your other purchase along as SLOWLY as possible without annoying the vendors. Check this feature out - it may help: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/buying-selling/selling-property/essential-guides-and-advice/30-ways-to-sell-your-home-in-a-flat-market-08-08-15_p_1.html
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:20:12
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  212. Hi Janice and John The market is very wobbly at the moment, as you well know, so it's tricky to advise you on which way to jump at the moment. If you do decide to go for the house, I would suggest that it's fine to put in a cheeky offer - put in what you can offer and see what happens - you're in a good position and it may be accepted.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:15:19
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  213. Hi Janine I can't really advise you where to buy - there are so many factors involved, but I can say that it's worth looking towards the Olympic site (around Docklands), which is being massively regenerated at present and is on the Jubilee line - going straight to Westminster. Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:11:48
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  214. Hi Rozina Best thing I can advise in this case is that you talk to the Citizen's Advice Bureau and get them to point you in the direction of some free help. If you've got the budget, a word with your solicitor will be advisable as well. It might well be worth you getting the leasehold valued separately, too, which will help you see how far off he is.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:09:45
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  215. Hi Peachey NO SHOW BUILDER I'm abit worried about this, but my answer is mainly going to be questions rather than answers: 1) did you have a contract with your builder and what did it say about payments? 2) did the contract have a penalty period if he was to run over in terms of time? 3) how were you paying him - for work completed or per finished jobs? If you didn't have a contract, it's going to be hard for him to prove just how much he's done - and equally hard for you to prove that he didn't finish certain jobs. I'm hoping, however, that you did have a contract, which should make things much more clear cut. Can I direct you to these pages: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/on-tv/don-t-blame-the-builders/ - they will give you a good insight into what you should do. Good luck
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:06:02
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  216. Hi Everyone Sorry for the lapse in answers - Phil's abit busy at the moment and my 'post your comments' button wouldn't post... anyway, here goes...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:01:02
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  217. Dear Phil Please help us with our current dilema ... Whilst on paternity leave with me after having our second son in June my husband and I stumbled upon our 'perfect, forever home' .. although it does need some work! Having done some sums we put our house on the market (now 8 weeks ago). In that time we have had, rather disappointingly only one viewing. We offered a cheeky offer on the other property which was declined, and of course as our position was terrible due to not even having anyone interested in our property we were not surprised. Now family have come to our assistance offering us help with a lump sum cash deposit and with another, smaller mortgage we would be able to afford to buy the second house without the need of selling our current one ... offers have been put in and declined but over the course of the last week the vendors have given in and have proposed to accept our offer which is £20k under their minimum guide price ... Is this however the time to be considering owning two properties and being stretched financially waiting for one to be sold. Our sums have been worked out on the lowest that we can sell our house for which I would suggest is quite sensible in the current climate but what do we do - should we go for the other property in the hope that our current Grade II listed property, which we have renovated over the past few years, sells fairly soon? I would be most grateful if you could help with our dilemma - as of course that 'forever house' is not the only house out there! Many thanks
    Posted by Alison P on 02/09/2008 15:45:27
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  218. Hi phil, we need to vacant our rented accomdation next april, we have funds avaiable now (£150K) to purchase the house, with a top up mortgage, which we feel is our dream house. Two questions. Should we make the offer now or wait a while in the hope of a better price and earning some interest on our money? The house is up for £245K but they have already said they would except £240, is £210K reasonable to offer, or is this a bit cheeky, we can't go much more than £215? It's been up for sale since Feb 08 with no offers, there is also no chain for either party. Help please
    Posted by janice & john on 31/08/2008 23:49:46
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  219. Hi, We own a 2 bed semi in norfolk, we have lived there for the past 15 years and now have 2 children so we desperatly need a 3 bed home with a downstairs cloakrm. We have a large garden and are unable to decide which is the best way to go forward - either to extend our home into the garden, giving us a 3rd bedroom, dining room and downstairs loo or to move. We have just had our house valued but are at the moment unable to find anything we can afford that is as nice as our house we have.
    Posted by Anne Boatman on 31/08/2008 21:02:10
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  220. Dear Phil, I am from Manchester and am looking to buy a property in London as I shall be moving there in 2 years to start a training contract with a law firm. I am looking to rent it out for the years prior to moving down myself. I have no idea which areas I should be looking at and was hoping you could suggest some good up and coming areas to buy. Basically, I will be working very close by to Westminster and so want easy access to this area on the tube. I would like 2-3 bedrooms and preferably a house or period conversion. I'd like to be somewhere which is popular with young professional/young families so that it would be quite easy to rent out. My price range is between £200,000 and £300,000. Any suggestions would be much appreciated! Kind Regards, Janine
    Posted by Janine Regan on 28/08/2008 22:24:29
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  221. dear phil me and my boyfreind are in the process of buying an old bungolow in southern ireland which needs a good bit of work an were wonderin if you could give us some advice on how best to do it up with limited funds we have a young baby and want to try an make the best out of the money and resouces we have any ideas??
    Posted by rebecca on 28/08/2008 14:42:36
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  222. Dear Phil I have a one bedroom flat. The freehold was bought by a new freeholder 18months ago. The building is 2 seperately owned flats above an office space on the ground floor. THe freeholder owns the office space and the building. I own one flat and a guy called Duncan owns the other flat. Duncan and I approached the freeholder about extending the lease. We had the property surveyed last December and have a solicitor that is liaising with his solicitor about the cost of the lease extension. It is not getting very far very quickly and we have already spent money on the surveyor and solicitor. The new freeholder wants to buy the property's for as low a price as possible and to get the leases extended for as much money as possible!! He is quoting £25000 to have the lease extended!!! He has now sent a letter to both Duncan and I saying the roof needs replacing, the rainwater guttering needs work; brickwork needs work and window frames. Again, we feel he is trying to scare us and wants out to give up the property's so that he can own the whole building outright. What are out rights.... and who can help. Please advise, regards, Rozina.
    Posted by Rozina Checkland on 27/08/2008 14:39:17
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  223. Dear Phil my girlfriend and I have recently purchased a 1 bed property with the potential to be made in to a 2 bed it is a 1890 creature cottage in Redbourn that we would like to refurbishment through out to turn it in to are dream home as this is are first project and the extent of the works needed we would be grateful if we could get you and your teams expert advice on how to achieve are goal. we have already call in architects and are in the process of having the plans drafted please please could you help us.
    Posted by Dominic on 27/08/2008 12:38:57
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  224. Hello Phil, My builder has been paid approx half his fees. The job is approx 80% done and he has not been contactable since April 2008. He was recommended and delivered after re-doing some work with bad grace. We talked and settled our differences and he and his team worked well (when I was able to be on site)and took three weeks longer than agreed. Some days they didn't turn up when they had another job to complete. I usually accepted this because I wanted to be understanding. However, calls to his mobile are not answered and texts not responded to. I have since been advised by two previous clients that he has a habit of turning up several months later and demanding money. i would like to be advised on a plan of action that involves an amicable as possible settlement workwise and financially. I have employed a new builder to complete the unfinished work. Best wishes, Peachey
    Posted by Peachey on 26/08/2008 15:32:31
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  225. Hi Michele You need to check out the Ofsted reports of the various local schools - the local councils' websites will have links to these. However, there's nothing better than having a recommendation from someone who's child goes to that school - which really is a case of getting to know people within the community in which you want to live. Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 26/08/2008 14:54:49
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  226. HI AUSSIE VIEWERS! I've asked Phil this myself - I know he'd like to and there are rumours about an Aussie trip to do some filming, but I can't confirm these - especially as Kirstie has just had a new baby. However, stay tuned, stay keen and you never know...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 26/08/2008 14:47:04
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  227. Hi Leigh One big question: do you have to sell now? If not, don't. There are very few buyers on the market at the moment and quite alot of houses - so you'll probably end up getting a low offer on it, if you get another offer at all in the near future. If you do have to sell, then you'll have to seriously consider every offer that comes along. There's no way of knowing what the market is going to do in the near future - it looks like it might continue a downward trend for the rest of this year, so if you decide to stay put, reconcile yourself to the fact that it may be for some time...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 26/08/2008 14:40:52
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  228. My husband and I live in the SW area of London with our two children age, age 3 and 5. We are currently renting but we have a significant deposit for the purchase of a house. Even with our deposit and falling house prices, we have found it's just impossible for us to afford the home we want in this part of London. We have now broadened our search to more rural areas outside of London that would allow my husband to commute in to London Bridge train station within 45 minutes. One of our top priorities is finding an area with very good state schools. Where can a buyer go to find out the quality of schools within a given town or council? Do you have any recommendations for areas outside London with great schools and affordable homes? By affordable, I mean 3/4 bedroom family homes under 500,000. Thanks!
    Posted by Michele, London on 26/08/2008 09:24:35
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  229. Have you any plan to travel oversea's and help abroad buyers???? I am in Sydney Australia and need your help! :)Thankyou for two great shows (Location and Relocation) both of which I watch religiously and even the re-runs!
    Posted by Haley on 26/08/2008 01:03:43
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  230. Hi Phil, my wife and I are thinking of moving to France in 2009. We are concerned about the health services for ex-pats following the changes put in place last November. Can you advise who we could talk with to find out the current situation and what we will need to do to ensure that we have adequate medical cover. Thanks
    Posted by Roy Freer on 24/08/2008 21:55:04
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  231. I want to sell my flat next year (2009)when I retire to enable be to move near my family in Devon. Money is a bit tight and the credit crunch has made it worse. I have an option to buy my share of the freehold which I have not taken advantage of due to financial reasons. However, if I sell the buyer can opt to do so. Would it be beneficial for me to buy the share prior to sale or sell with the option to the buyer to purchase the share of the freehold?
    Posted by jennifer newland on 24/08/2008 16:46:13
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  232. I want to sell my flat next year (2009)when I retire to enable be to move near my family in Devon. Money is a bit tight and the credit crunch has made it worse. I have an option to buy my share of the freehold which I have not taken advantage of due to financial reasons. However, if I sell the buyer can opt to do so. Would it be beneficial for me to buy the share prior to sale or sell with the option to the buyer to purchase the share of the freehold?
    Posted by jennifer newland on 24/08/2008 16:43:08
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  233. Hi Phil, we have a 2 bed bungalow that has a large kitchen diner but I want to know if you think it would be worth adding a small (approx 10L x 5W)utility room with toilet to the side of the kitchen. Had a quote and it was quite expensive for such a small area so I dont know if its worth it. Any suggestions? Thanks Jo Dahlman
    Posted by Jo Dahlman on 24/08/2008 10:07:18
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  234. My husband and have found ourselves in a very difficult predicament. I have a a back problem that has kept me off work since Feb, my husband is being made redundant and we are full time carers for my Mum who is 80 yrs old and in poor health. We have to sell our home and release ourselves from the mortgage, we have £200k tops to spend on another property. we need a 3/4 bed bungalow but there is nothing in our area (Burgess Hill, west sussex) in our price range. In fact we have looked all over the southeast and feel hopeless. We have our youngest daughter in the same area with her husband and our two wonderfull grandchildren, Eloise is 5 and Joquin is 3, they are the light of our lives but we will have to move away to live now. We recently went to Wisbech area for 2 days to explore bungalows and found some wonderful examples. Our daughter and Son-in-law also want to move and have looked online at properties for exchange with housing associations in Gorlesdon nr Great Yarmouth. Our dilemma is that whilst caring for my Mum my grandchildren give me so much to look forward to, I just cannot move away from them. Obviously I know we have to relocate and will do it but I just wondered if there is anything you can do to help us as a family to make this move. Our other daughter is in Essex so we will be no further away from her.
    Posted by val on 22/08/2008 18:49:08
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  235. Is anyone able to help with a big problem we have after coming out of a purchase in Malta? We are supposed to receive our deposit back but aren't getting anywhere. We had bad advise from the estate agent. Please help us!
    Posted by ruthwarner on 22/08/2008 12:34:58
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  236. I own a (very usual in design and layout) 3 bed 3 storey mews house in Hertfordshire which is in excellent condition with a 5 minute walk to a station which provides an excellent service into London which has been on the market since April 2007. I've had about 35 viewers, 3 offers (only one good one which I now regret not accepting) and have reduced the price by £20,000. Originally on for £355,000. The house is a shared freehold with a 999 lease and lovely communial garden and BBQ area. We hope to buy a new house so there will be no upward chain. Should we stay on the market or take it off for now? Your advice would be greatly appreciated.
    Posted by Leigh Greenwood on 22/08/2008 09:39:19
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  237. Hi Ros The answer is always to offer what you can afford - a good opening gambit (in this market) I would suggest is to offer £150,000. It'll probably be rejected, but go back at £152,500 and try again (and so on). Each time, underline what a good position you're in. You might be their only option. Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 21/08/2008 17:08:44
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  238. Hi David It's usual in this situation to ask for the amount of work that's being done (£4K) to be taken off the price - although often a property is priced with work in mind (you haven't said here whether it has been). It's not usual to ask for much, much more than that (£10K), and I'm pretty sure you'll upset your seller if you do that. Try for £5K, see what happens and let us know!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 21/08/2008 17:01:17
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  239. Hi Mrs Doughty, I suggest you go to our sister site, www.aplaceinthesun.com for more info. Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 21/08/2008 16:58:42
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  240. First time buyer with all my finances in place. Have secured a 2 bed Edwardian conversation apartment in Cheltenham. Bright, Spacious and a good area. My offer was accepted 7 weeks ago, solicitors appointed, formal mortgage offer made but we havent exchanged yet, I want the property for as little as possible (currently agreed £190k) survey picked up a few points, approx £4k worth. Where do I stand in reducing my offer? I dont want to shed blood over all this but at the same time I am aware I need to minimise the possibility of going into negative equity!! Ideally £180k would be a better plateau, although the seller has already come down from £205k to £190k. Am I asking for too much?? Should I ask for £180k???! P.s. I love the programme, keep it up.
    Posted by David Hunt on 20/08/2008 13:38:36
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  241. We have 30,000 for a deposit on a florida holiday home it will have to pay for its self after the purchase have you got any suggesgons on where to go to obtain more information and reliabe agents ? Many Thanks Mrs Doughty
    Posted by Mr & Mrs Doughty on 20/08/2008 09:58:54
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  242. Phil, I was recently searching right move and was surprised to see a picture of you and Kirsty helping to market a property do you do this regularly? This is the URL http://www.rightmove.co.uk/viewdetails-7638867.rsp?pa_n=1&tr_t=buy
    Posted by Gary on 20/08/2008 09:46:51
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  243. I am seeing the Bank manager on Tuesday to look at various options into my financial situation. I'm looking to get a mortgage and if all is well, use the for a 'Self Build'- For my sins perhaps?! I currently work for a Timber Engineering company who design and manufacture timber homes. We are also a builders merchants, meaning I can get materials, timber frames and Trusses at cost price plus a little extra. With that in mind, a new build from start to finish, i'e- Architectural designs, land buying, surveys and legal fees etc, how much would I be looking to spend in total for your average 3 bedroom house? I very much appreciate you taking the time to read this and any input from you will be gratefully received. Kind regards Daniel Webb
    Posted by Dan Webb on 19/08/2008 19:20:55
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  244. Hi, we are a young family looking for our next house. We have no property to sell and are currently renting. We have found a house we like but are unsure whether to proceed with the market as it is or hold off for a while. If we do proceed what would be a good opening offer, the property is on at £164,950 and has been on the market for two years, the price has dropped nearly £30,000 in that time.
    Posted by Ros Chciken on 19/08/2008 16:25:20
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  245. Hi Vicky Have a look at this feature: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/buying-selling/selling-property/essential-guides-and-advice/30-ways-to-sell-your-home-in-a-flat-market-08-08-15_p_1.html, which I wrote last week for people in your situation. Your place sounds lovely, but its sheer size will cut down your market considerably, as I'm sure you know. Sadly, people are having to drop their asking prices at the moment. It might just be a case of waiting for a buyer to come along. First stop, a good talk with your agent (once you've read the feature). Good luck - and let us all know what finally works.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/08/2008 12:52:27
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  246. Hi Andrew Weirdly, I've just been in Leicester this weekend... however, I was at a four year old's party, which is of no help to you. Can I suggest you contact the university's housing officer - this will be the best person to speak to. From experience, I'd say that you need to be walking distance from your lectures, at least for the first year, so you might have to spend the first couple of terms getting used to the city, ready to move somewhere abit more 'you' in year 2. Enjoy...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/08/2008 12:47:08
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  247. Hi Guys, Please come to New Zealand and Make over my lounge Its huge but dated. We Have nothing like what you guys do and I'm Jealous. I watch all the time and think if only they could come here to NZ. What a blast. We would put you up and cook you amazing meals!! Ok so it's a dream can't blame a girl for asking!. All the best from (the Kiwi girl) Robyn.
    Posted by Robyn on 18/08/2008 04:34:07
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  248. Hello Phil, I am planning to move to Leicester from London within the next 6 weeks as I am going to attend the University of Leicester. My problem is as I have never been to Leicester before and so do not know which areas are nicer to live in, how do i found out very quickly which are nicer areas to live that are also close to the University of Leicester. Your advice will be appreciated
    Posted by Andrew on 17/08/2008 20:51:29
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  249. Hi Kirsty and Phil. My partner and I have a dream of buying a piece of land or doer-upper to build an eco home on the Surrey-Hants border. We have £175K cash but as yet have not had any luck finding anything. We scour the papers, internet sites, mail agents, pop in to see them regularly and look at anything remotely suitable but cant find thing. What are we doing wrong? I have seen your suggestion of applying to the 'takepart' section but the show isn't on there, so any suggestions you have would be gratefully accepted.
    Posted by Jules on 16/08/2008 17:59:08
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  250. hi phil,we have a 7 bedroom farmhouse and 150 acres of land .It is in the middle of a nature reserve and is a beautiful property that we have restored, it is in a lovely location. the house has been on the market for about a year. the whole of it is up for 1.150.000 or the house and buildings for 850.000. any advice would be welcomed as to how we can sell this property. many thanks vicky
    Posted by vicky lyon on 16/08/2008 10:38:44
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  251. Hi Lynne You need to go to www.channel4.com/takepart to be on the show. Fingers crossed!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 15/08/2008 14:37:06
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  252. Hi Dazy The only way you can find out if your property is correctly priced is to do research, both yourself and through your agent. I'll be putting up a feature next week about selling in a flat market - I suggest you check it out - no link yet because it's not live, but come back and check out the home page: www.channel4.com/4homes
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 15/08/2008 14:36:12
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  253. Hi Janet I'm not sure about swapping permanently - can I suggest you try our sister website, www.aplaceinthesun.com - there's bound to be info there. Thanks and good luck
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 15/08/2008 14:34:49
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  254. I am trying to sell my 2 bdrm 2 bath ranch in a co-op. Its immaculate and almost new. I have it priced at 99,900 is this too high? I know this is worth the 99,900, Help I need to sell this house immediately!
    Posted by dazy on 15/08/2008 01:22:00
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  255. DEAR PHIL & KIRSTY I AM RECENTLY SEPARATED AND NEED TO DOWNSIZE MORTGAGE. I HAVE BEEN LEFT WITH NEG EQUITY IN GLASGOW AND WOULD LOVE TO MOVE BACK TO MY HOME TOWN OF SHOTTS IN LANARKSHIRE. SHOTTS IS AN OLD FASHIONED COAL MINING AREA WHERE MY GRANDPARENTS WORKED AND EARNED THEY'RE KEEP. I DESPERATELY NEED YOUR HELP AND INFORMATIVE ADVICE. IF YOU COULD SUPPLY ME WITH ADVICE - YOU WOULD HELP MY DAUGHTER AND I ENORMOUSLY. I PRESENTLY OWN A FLAT IN THE VERY PROPSPEROUS AREA OF LANGSIDE IN GLASGOW SOUTH. I LOVE THIS AREA BUT HAVE TO LEAVE AND MOVE TO SOMETHING MORE AFFORDABLE. WITH THIS IN MIND - CAN YOU HELP ME ACHIEVE MY DREAM. A HOME I CAN LOVE AND FALL IN LOVE WITH! THE HOME THAT LOVED ME...
    Posted by LYNNE TIMLIN on 14/08/2008 22:39:47
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  256. Can you let me know if there is a website which deals with exchanging properties permanently i.e a propety in Guildford, Surrey for a property in Portugal near the sea if possible.
    Posted by Janet Bird on 13/08/2008 19:15:06
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  257. dear phil Was shocked to hear you call (carlisle and bath episode) bath a town, it always was and still remains a city, can not believe you said it! Bad researches? Furthermore, you later declared that the clients were living in a georgian property, waithing with baited breath to see such a beauty, of which Bath is famed,i was terribly disappointed as it was clearly victorian?!
    Posted by janine rayner on 13/08/2008 14:14:25
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  258. Hi John Sadly, I don't think it's that simple - because converting a barn can turn up so many unforeseen problems and extras, which would make a nonsense out of any ballpark figure. The best way to gauge it is to go the usual route, get at least three quotes, take an average from the three (assuming they all seem realistic), then add at least 20 per cent as a contingency (and if you want the benefit of my experience, add 50 per cent plus as a contingency). Same goes for timing - if your builder says it will take three months, make that six. Check out our property development pages (including stuff from Kevin McCloud and Sarah Beeny about developing and restoring old properties: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/property-money/property-development/
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 13/08/2008 13:25:08
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  259. Please could you supply some 'ball park' budgeting figures for on a sq m basis for converting a barn e.g. Plumber, Plumbing, Electric, Electrician, Builder, Conversion costs etc. I am constantly told to budget for £900 - £1000 /sqm, but would love someone to break it down. No one is expecting this to be accurate but if there were some 'industry norms' I would appreciate seeing them. Thank John
    Posted by John Godman on 13/08/2008 11:12:43
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  260. Hi Rose My advice would be what Phil told me recently - the only houses that stand a chance of selling currently are those that are in tip top condition. Any way you could find the time and a little budget to get yours in the best possible state? That way, you'll attract more buyers. As for price, things are pretty bad out there at the moment - best way to ramp the price up is to get the decor in order - but even that isn't a guarantee. Good luck
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 12/08/2008 15:44:46
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  261. Hello, looking to speak to Kirsty actually. I have just heard that you purchased a property in North Devon (meadowgate) Actually, I'm the person who occupied it for several months after it being left derelict for quarter of a century. I handed it over to a friend in December as I went travelling. I put alot of love and energy into that house, really made it a hub of actvity, for local residents and musicians, and was just wondering what your plans were, and wether it would be possible to get involved again! If you had seen the state of it before I cleared out the debris and wreckage, you probably wouldn't have set foot inside! Anyway, I have some paper work from the 70's which discuss your legal access to water suplies and the original contract e.t.c. if it's any use to you. Just to let you know that I had the most wonderful time occupying that house, and many people have also appreciated the magic too. Wishing you the best of luck, and also hoping for a reply! Jack x
    Posted by Jack on 11/08/2008 16:11:25
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  262. need help. trying to sell house in sw12 needing some dec. work but sound. Let down by one estate agent totaly. Now with another e.a. only offer is low to low 5 bed house nr to commons and school.lovely house. can you suggest anything we can do. or help in any way. thankyou.
    Posted by rose on 11/08/2008 14:57:02
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  263. Hi Katie My advice would be much the same as Phil's above - if you don't have to sell at the moment, I really wouldn't. It's a tricky climate - there are very few buyers around at the moment and you're unlikely to get the best price for your home. However, ironically, it's not a bad time to buy, so if you're absolutely set on it, you're likely to be able to snag a bargain. My advice? Try to buy something that needs work and is in an up and coming area - speak to your local estate agents for advice on good areas and do lots of research yourself before making a move. Good luck
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:25:48
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  264. Hi Suzi It's possible that you may snag a bargain property at the moment in this climate - if you can get the finances. However, if you are brave enough to buy, don't be blinded by the bargain price tag to all the rules you should apply when buying a property, especially one that's intended for rental. Think along the lines of: is the location in an up and coming area? Were I to have to sell it quickly in the next year, is it going to appeal to a large number of buyers? Is it in the kind of location to appeal to a wide range of prospective tenants? Does the work/upkeep it requires, plus mortgage, plus tax, plus fees add up to less than the rental income I could realistically expect? My advice would be to try and take at least one rental agent along to view the house and get a realistic appraisal of just how much it would rent out for in its current state, what you would need to do to get it ready for renting and what they think the rental market in that area is like currently. Only then would I step onto the ladder. For all sorts of advice money and property related, go to these pages: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/property-money/ Good luck!
    Posted by 4Homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:22:43
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  265. Hi Sneha Spending out on renovations is a very personal thing. If you are planning to sell the property and hoping for a profit, this may not be the right time. However, if you are planning to live in the property for some time, why not? There's no guarantee at the moment that property prices will rise in the short term - however, what is certain is that the properties that seem to be selling are the best presented ones. So, although you may not add value with the work you are planning, you may find you sell more easily and get closer to your ceiling price than you would have done. Do make sure with both the jobs you are planning that you get building regs approval first.
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:16:17
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  266. Hi Marilyn I'd advise you to look back through the contracts you have with them to see whose responsibility it is, assuming you had one with them? Good luck
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:12:36
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  267. Hi Rina Go to: http://www.channel4.com/microsites/T/takepart/index.html
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:10:08
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  268. Hi Pia It's difficult to answer this without knowing your budget and what type of home you would prefer. If your husband is working in Bracknell, it would be a good idea to start with the M4 corridor, since transport links into London from there are very good. There are some lovely places to live there - from Henley to Chiswick, depending on your budget and needs. Obviously schools vary within each borough. Search agents, such as Phil, do charge a fee, but then they can often save you money on a house, too. However, I'd suggest that you start by making a wishlist - that will help you narrow down your search. Include on it, apart from good schools, things like: how long should my commute time be? Do I want to live in a village, a suburb or right in the bustle of town? Once you've got those ticked off, you can look at areas more closely. You might also like to visit our Best & Worst map and read user comments from there about areas to live. Find it at http://channel4bestandworst.com/. Good luck.
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:08:11
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  269. Hi Marc Thanks for your query about self building - lucky for you we have a self build section and lots of eco advice on the 4homes site already - check out http://www.channel4.com/4homes/diy-self-build/ for all you need to know. Good luck!
    Posted by 4homes Ed on 11/08/2008 14:01:13
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  270. My partner and I lost out on a property sold by our local council (via an estate agent). It was months ago and I'm keen to know how much it sold for. Are the agents or Council obliged to tell me the price it finally went for, if I contacted them? I can't find it anywhere on the online sites.
    Posted by Liz on 11/08/2008 13:23:07
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  271. Hi Phil, love your show that you an kirsty do together. We are thinking about relocating to British Columbia, but not too sure what the first step is we have to take. Do you have any suggestions for us, to point us in the right direction. We wish to keep our house here in the uk and rent it out and rent in BC. Look forward to your comments Karen
    Posted by Karen on 10/08/2008 21:05:13
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  272. Hi Could you give me your honest opinion please? I was hoping to put a 5m x 5m log cabin in the back garden, for use as either a gym/sauna or a place to have as a guest room. I can't afford to sell and move to a bigger house. Would this add any value to my house? or detract from it? Thank you for your help. Warm regards Cliff
    Posted by Cliff on 10/08/2008 18:37:10
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  273. We live in West Yorkshire and are considering relocating to London as I have been offered a training contract with a law firm based near Farringdon station commencing in September 2009. My husband would be working out of an office in Bracknell. The major issue for us in making the decision to move or not is finding good schools for our children. Both are currently in primary schools but one will be starting secondary school in 2010. I feel unable to accept the job offer until I have some idea about areas to go for. We need an affordable area (renting or buying) with good state schools and good transport links for us both! With limited knowledge of London this search is pretty daunting. Would you be able to suggest areas worth considering or do you provide such a service for a fee? I would be grateful for any input you may have. Look forward to your reply.
    Posted by Pia, West Yorkshire on 09/08/2008 12:44:30
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  274. I wish to buy 3 bedroom flat or maissoinet in East london E2 are, and would like your help.How can I take part in your programme Location location?Thank you in anticipation Rina Sharma
    Posted by Rina Sharma on 08/08/2008 11:30:58
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  275. Hi there Phil, I am originally from the UK, but now live in Australia, and have seen Grand Designs in both countries. We viewed a programme about an "underground" design this week, which had used polystyrene blocks for the walls. This interested me because we have a huge insulation problem in our house. Our upstairs western wall, made from a panelling on the extrior and gyprock on the inside, has not been insulated at all, but has impossible access and I have been wanting to insulate from the inside without reducing the size of the rooms too much(two bedrooms and a walk-in wardrobe), I had thought about polystyrene but wasn't sure how could use it until I saw your programme this week. Do you know of any blocks that are smaller than the ones used in the programme that would be accesible from Australia? Our walls get ridiculously hot through summer, on the internal wall, and are freezing naturally in winter. I have thought of so many options, but this seems the only one that would work without ripping the inside of the house apart.....also considering difficult access to the upstairs rooms too. The downstairs is around80-100yrs and the upstairs is about 12 years old....(we moved in 6yrs ago).I would be so grateful if you could let me know anything about this. THANK YOU. My son and I absolutely adore your programme. Sue Herron
    Posted by Sue Herron on 07/08/2008 22:36:00
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  276. Hi Phil hope you can help. At the moment i have a three bed semi in bristol. My partner and i are in the process of having this refurbished totally readying to put on the market. What our query concerns is we are looking to buy a property that is basically falling to peices, tearing this down and building our own eco home using traditional techniques and materials. wood, hay, lime putty and incorperating up to date features such as Micro-chp for heating and electricity. we would also love to incorperate wind turbine technology. Right .... here is the problem ... we havent a clue where to start! I'm an ex-builder who now teaches in a secondary. Any information or contacts for information you could provide us with would be much appreciated. thanks again Marc Catford.
    Posted by Marc Catford on 07/08/2008 19:16:46
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  277. We purchased a property on 4 April and received planning permission to demolish and rebuild on 1 July. We are extremely anxious to make a start but our QS has informed us today that there could be a delay of weeks as the authorities have to disconnect the services. My question, is it the responsiblity of the architect or QS to get this put in hand?
    Posted by Marilyn Stevens on 07/08/2008 16:31:11
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  278. Hi Rajiv The latest we have seen is the Chancellor saying with regard to this, "I am looking at a number of measures and I am not going to be drawn on that today because we have not concluded what exactly we need to do." Although a lot of people would welcome a suspension, the Liberal Democrats have advised against it, and the Prime Minister may well be wary of such measures due to press criticism of recent U-turns and snap decisions. We'll add our latest thoughts as this progresses: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/property-money/housing-market-news-views/
    Posted by 4Homes on 07/08/2008 11:42:07
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  279. we are buying a 2 bed terraced victorian with a loft conversion in East London. We think we have got a good deal (almost 50 grand below asking price). We plan to make a few changes in the house, like changing the 1st floor staircase for a better access to the loft room and getting a 1st floor wetroom. Do you suggest its the right time to do these changes - immediately after we have moved in - or wait for a better time. ( looking at the market - should we spend this additional sum along with our deposit,legal fees etc?)
    Posted by Sneha on 07/08/2008 10:50:35
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  280. Hi Gill Try http://www.scottsofstow.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product1_17055_-1_17745_10551
    Posted by 4homes on 07/08/2008 10:26:13
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  281. I have £25K to invest in a property, (and am thinking about locations like Liverpool for a 2/3 bed terrace house) for approx £100K to rent to proffessionals/families. I dont know if this climate is the right or wrong time to be doing this. What should I do? Thanks!
    Posted by Suzi on 07/08/2008 09:21:07
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  282. Hi Phil and Kirstie, I could'nt find how to contact you both on this website so am hoping this is appropriate. I am a home owner, I brought my first and only flat in Staines a few years ago. I have been wanting to move for some time now but would really value your help. My locations are primarily Staines, Chertsey and Egham. I'm quite confused about what would be the best option for me. I'd really like a new build but am concerned about the market implications for this. I live on my own so manage my mortgage singularly and although I have a nice 2 bed flat now, with some debt and market the fact that I am due to remortgage, I would really appreciate your help in perhaps sourcing a good deal for me. I have just secured a new job with a promotion so my salary has increased but having been through some serious personal difficulties I am finding it hard to make the right decision. Kind regards Katie
    Posted by Katie Gillard on 07/08/2008 00:11:54
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  283. Hello - I am living in amsterdam at the moment. I have bought an apartment in a really nice neghbourhood close to the centre. hoever, my fiance and I are looking for something bigger to live in together. He also has an apartment of his own that he is currently letting out. I am undecided as wether to sell one of the apartments or let both of them out and buy another house. Its not difficult to find renters in amsterdam, and the location of these apartments make them ideal. I am a bit reluctant to sell them. For the house that we want to buy, I would like to buy something that needs work, i would like to invest in something with high returns. As amsterdam is becoming (like london) unaffordable if you want space, do you have any tips for finding locations that will have a possible higher rate of increase? Do you also have any tip of what to look for in a house that needs renovation that we should be aware of. - Thanks for any advice you could pass on. And if you wanted to do an episode in the netherlands I would be more than happy to be a client!
    Posted by Natalie van Hulsen on 06/08/2008 10:22:37
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  284. As I am sure you are aware %u2013 there has been a great deal written and said over the last few days on the issue of Stamp Duty and possible plans to suspend this in order to revive the housing market. With speculation as rife as it is now %u2013 I believe that (per the reports) waiting for Mr Brown to return from Beijing at the end of the month in order to make a decision on this would be tantamount to totally killing the housing market during this interim period. Until there is clarification %u2013 no-one will be willing to finalise purchases. With this in mind %u2013 should the Press put pressure on the Treasury now to issue some form of press release regarding guidance on how to porceed ? Do you have any advice ? I look forward to your response as soon as possible.
    Posted by Rajiv Vyas on 05/08/2008 13:44:40
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