2020-06-15 15:49:31
Blog by Lucinda Holt
Now the housing market is back, TV property experts Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp give their advice to buyers and their top tip is….it’s all about space.
The presenters of Channel 4’s Location, Location, Location tell the Sunday Times today how the Covid-19 crisis has reordered our priorities.
Kirstie says: “What we have learnt through this crisis is our home is really important, it’s where you will have to spend a lot of time over the next few years. If the house is perfect for you and you can afford it, don’t walk away because they won’t give you 10% off. It’s a home. It’s not all about the money.”
Discussing the homes that will sell for a premium, Phil and Kirstie agree that space is the ultimate ‘must have’ on every buyer’s wishlist.
“Outside space is going to be so much more important. Flats with real square footage where you get the outside in will be worth more: a flat with a Juliet balcony where you open French windows and sit in the sun,” says Kirstie.
Phil agrees: “Houses with more space and a garden, home offices, and easy access to the countryside. High-rise flats with no outside space, and with a shared lift, will not be in demand.”
For homebuyers nervous about viewing their dream home Phil offers this advice: “You can’t really make an important emotional decision without visiting in person. Feelings are a part of house hunting. If you feel safe, follow the protocol and get stuck in.”
The housing market lockdown has created a lot of pent-up demand, Phil believes: “It depends how much you like the house and your timescales. Keep in mind there is a lot of pent-up demand.”
And Kirstie adds: “I think there will be a lot of activity, a post-lockdown bounce for a while, because of the three Ds [death, divorce and debt], and people re-evaluating their lives and their commute. And there’s no guarantee you will be able to get something cheaper than you did in February.”
The Union Lofts in Preston ticks Kirstie and Phil's boxes. It's a residential conversion by Etc Urban of an historic late-Victorian carriage and autocar manufactory in Guildhall Street in the heart of Preston.
There are 18 spacious loft apartments, many with large west-facing terraces, with 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms up to 1,025 sq ft. Price start from £105,000.
We are open for viewings of all our apartments on sale now: Contact agent Michael Bailey on 07828 630 194 or email michael.bailey@kwuk.com for a chat.
