Watsons Property

Every year, we hear about disputes between tenants and landlords when it comes to putting up Christmas decorations. While it may seem like a small issue, it’s a topic that sparks frustration on both sides. For tenants, decking the halls is a time-honored tradition, while landlords may be concerned about potential damage or disruption. According to recent surveys, over 30% of tenants report disagreements with their landlords about Christmas decorations - whether it’s the type of decorations allowed, the length of time they can be displayed, or concerns over damage. For tenants, decorating a space is a great way to make it feel festive and homely, and there are a few helpful things to keep in mind when decorating this festive season - 🎨 Don’t make it permanent: Use removable hooks or adhesive strips for decorations instead of nails. 📜 Check Your Tenancy Agreement: Many UK tenancy agreements outline specific rules about decorating, so double-check before making any changes. 🔥 Prioritise Safety: Use lights that meet UK safety standards (look for a British or CE mark) and avoid overloading plug sockets to reduce fire risks. 🧹 Leave It as You Found It: When taking down decorations, ensure no damage is left behind. Filling minor pin holes or removing adhesive marks can help protect your deposit. Open communication between landlords and tenants is key to finding a compromise that allows everyone to enjoy the season while respecting property rules. What’s your take on the Christmas decoration debate? Should tenants be allowed to go all out with their decorations, or should landlords set stricter limits? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! #TenantTips #UKRenting #FestiveDecor #RentedLiving #ProtectYourDeposit #HolidayReady

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of hosting a fantastic conference at the beautiful The Pumping House in Newark, bringing together our incredible team of surveyors and staff to explore key topics in surveying and professional development. A heartfelt thank you to all our wonderful guest speakers: Richard Fitton from the University of Salford, Clare Yates MNAEA from CY Training Works, James Warren from Off Mains Solutions, Justin Howard & Tom Wilson from Langley, and our very own amazing Watsons team members – Ray Smith, Alison Crawford, Emily Ransome-Farmer, and James Laughlin. Your insights and expertise made the day truly impactful, and we are so grateful for your contributions. Taking time as a team to gather, learn, and discuss topics that shape our industry is invaluable. These moments strengthen our shared vision, deepen our expertise, and ensure we’re continually growing together. Events like this not only enrich our work but also remind us of the importance of collaboration and innovation in everything we do. Thank you to everyone who made the day a success! Here’s to many more opportunities to come together and grow as a team. #Surveying #ProfessionalDevelopment #Teamwork #Collaboration #Innovation #IndustryGrowth #Networking #LearningAndDevelopment #ThankYou

From the front garden to the living room and all the way to the loft, a home survey is your first step to peace of mind! 🏡 When you're making one of the biggest purchases of your life, don’t leave anything to chance. A Watsons surveyor will thoroughly assess your potential new home, helping to ensure it’s a sound investment, free from unexpected surprises. 💡 Why choose Watsons? ✅ Regulated by RICS—the gold standard in surveying. 🕰️ Over 100 years of experience in the property industry. 👷 Expert surveyors delivering trusted, reliable advice. 🔍 Comprehensive assessments of every nook and cranny for peace of mind. Ready to get started? Visit our website for an instant online quote today and take the first step toward a worry-free home purchase! ✅ 📲https://lnkd.in/e6qtWrAH #WatsonsSurveying #HomeSurvey #RICSRegulated #Over100YearsExperience #SmartHomeBuying

Service charges have recently garnered significant attention in both public and industry conversations. Undoubtably, These charges are a cornerstone of effective property management, funding essential services that maintain communal spaces, uphold safety standards, and keep properties in excellent condition. From routine tasks like cleaning and landscaping to critical safety improvements post-Grenfell, service charges ensure that shared environments remain functional, safe, and well-maintained. Recent debates have highlighted growing concerns around the rising costs of service charges. This increase has been driven by several factors, including: 💰 Inflation in construction materials: Rising costs of supplies like steel and concrete. 👷♂️Labour shortages: A competitive labour market has led to rising wages and challenges in sourcing skilled workers, driving up costs. ⚡Climbing energy prices: Persistent impacts of the energy crisis, particularly for communal heating systems. These challenges make transparency and fairness in service charge management more crucial than ever. It is an important role for Property Management companies to balance the delivery of high-quality services with the need to keep costs reasonable and well-justified. At Watsons, we understand that service charges are an investment, and we are committed to making sure that every charge reflects the value it brings to the property and community. From clear communication about what’s covered to ensuring your funds are spent responsibly, we prioritise transparency in everything we do. We focus on providing high-quality service and long-term value for our customers and leaseholders. If you have any questions about what your service charge covers or how it benefits your property, we’re always here to chat and provide clarity. Visit https://lnkd.in/eFhyRyh #PropertyManagement #ServiceCharges #CommunityLiving #WatsonsProperty

🏆 Exciting News: Watsons Wins National Award! We’re overjoyed to share that Watsons has been named Lettings Agency of the Year 2024 at the prestigious News on the Block Awards in London! 🎉 The News on the Block Awards celebrate excellence in property management, recognising companies that go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service. To be recognised on this national stage is an incredible honour and a testament to the unwavering dedication of our Team. At Watsons, our lettings team plays a vital role in supporting landlords and tenants alike. From ensuring properties are let quickly and efficiently, to managing every detail of tenancy agreements, maintenance, and compliance, they work tirelessly to deliver a seamless experience. Their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to customer service have been pivotal in earning this accolade. This award is not just a reflection of our team’s hard work - it’s a promise to our clients to continue striving for excellence in everything we do. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this outstanding achievement! Here’s to another fantastic year ahead, and thank you to News on the Block for this incredible recognition. 💼🏠 #LettingsAgencyOfTheYear #PropertyManagementExcellence #TeamWatsons #AwardWinningTeam

At Watsons, we’ve been helping landlords navigate the complex world of lettings for a long time. From seasoned property investors to first-time landlords, we’ve seen it all. Every day, we have conversations with landlords who are eager to start their journey but are unsure where to begin or how to manage the challenges that come with renting out a property. If you’re just starting out, here are some key insights based on what we see and the advice we give every day: ✅ Understanding the Market: One of the first conversations we have with new landlords is about pricing. It’s crucial to set the right rent to attract reliable tenants while ensuring you’re getting the best return on your investment. We help landlords analyse local markets, compare properties, and understand how factors like location and condition affect rental value. ✅ Preparing Your Property: Presentation is everything. We often advise landlords to think like tenants. What would make your property appealing? Fresh decor, good lighting, and functional spaces can make all the difference in securing a tenancy quickly. ✅ Navigating Legal Requirements: Landlord responsibilities go far beyond just handing over the keys. We regularly guide landlords through safety checks, energy performance certificates, deposit protection schemes, and tenancy agreements. It’s a lot to take in, but compliance is crucial to protecting both you and your tenants. ✅ Managing Maintenance and Tenants: One of the most common concerns we hear is, “How do I manage everything once the tenant moves in?” From regular property checks to responding to maintenance requests, being proactive saves time, money, and stress. We also encourage landlords to build positive tenant relationships through clear communication and professionalism. It goes a long way in ensuring smooth tenancies. At Watsons, we’re proud to be the trusted partner for so many landlords across the region. Whether it’s answering questions about property investment, marketing a property effectively, or handling day-to-day management, we’re here to simplify the process. If you’re considering becoming a landlord or just want to know more about what’s involved, take a look at our blog for more essential tips: https://lnkd.in/eZ8dPBtW We provide a complete service encompassing all aspects of residential lettings and property management. Start your landlord journey with confidence - Watsons is here to help! #FirstTimeLandlord #PropertyManagement #WatsonsProperty #LandlordTips

At Watsons, we believe that your feedback is the key to helping us grow, improve, and serve you better. 🌟 Every suggestion, review, and comment you share inspires us to enhance our services and ensure you have the best possible experience. It's reviews like this that inspire us to provide exceptional service on every survey we carry out. We’re not just listening – we’re acting. Because when you speak, we hear the heart of what really matters. ❤️ Learn more about our expert survey and valuation services over on our website - https://lnkd.in/dvKWEUh #CustomerFirst #FeedbackMatters #ThankYou #Watsons

Today, on International Men’s Day, we take a moment to celebrate the incredible contributions of men across the globe - and closer to home, right here at Watsons 🌍 At Watsons, we know the world of property is as much about people as it is about places. Our male colleagues play a vital role in shaping the world of Watsons, driving innovation in property management, and fostering trust with clients across all departments. Their dedication, expertise, and passion for what they do help define our success. This year’s theme, “Positive Role Models,” resonates deeply within our team. Whether mentoring new talent, navigating complex challenges, or bringing fresh perspectives to the table, the men of Watsons are not only professionals but also mentors, leaders, and champions of collaboration. 🙌 But today isn’t just about celebrating. it’s about reflecting on the unique challenges that men face and fostering a workplace where everyone feels supported and valued. International Men’s Day reminds us to advocate for men’s health, mental well-being, and work-life balance. Not just today, but every day. So, to all the men at Watsons: thank you for your contributions, your strength, and your ability to inspire those around you. Together, we are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future in the property world and beyond. Let’s take this opportunity to recognise the fantastic men in our lives and their positive impact. Share a message, give a shout-out to a male colleague, or just take a moment to reflect on what this day means. 💙 #InternationalMensDay #WatsonsTeam #PropertyExperts #PositiveRoleModels #MensHealth #ThankYouMen

Housing disrepair claims in the UK have seen a significant increase in recent years, largely due to factors such as rising living costs, growing repair backlogs, and deteriorating property conditions. Between 2020 and 2024, housing disrepair claims against both social and private landlords rose by 132% as tenants face ongoing issues like dampness, poor insulation, and structural defects. A combination of legal changes like the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 and growing awareness of health hazards such as damp and mould has pushed tenants to seek legal action. What Should You Do if You’re Facing Housing Disrepair Issues? As a landlord or leaseholder facing housing disrepair claims, it’s essential to address issues promptly and professionally. Here’s where Watsons Surveyors can help. For landlords, Watsons offers expert property assessments to identify safety hazards, structural defects, and required repairs. We provide clear reports outlining issues and recommend solutions to bring your property up to code, preventing further claims and ensuring compliance with housing health and safety standards. For leaseholders, our independent, unbiased surveyors evaluate your property to help you understand your rights and what needs fixing. If needed, our surveyors can act as expert witnesses, providing objective reports to help resolve disputes over housing conditions. Our goal is to support both landlords and tenants, promoting safer, healthier living conditions and resolving conflicts without the need for lengthy legal battles. With the rising number of claims and stricter regulations ahead, such as Awaab's Law, ensuring your property is safe and compliant is more important than ever. Reach out to Watsons for expert surveying services to help you navigate housing disrepair claims and keep your property safe for everyone involved. To find out more visit https://lnkd.in/ekvDb_i6 or call us on 0333 220 123. #HousingSupport #WatsonsSurveyors  #RICS #PropertyManagement #Landlords #Leaseholders #HousingDisrepair #SurveyingServices #HomeRepairs

🏡 TO LET - A STYLISH 1-BED APARTMENT IN THE HEART OF HOLT 🏡 📍 Kerridge Court is in a prime location just steps from Holt's High Street. Immerse yourself in the charm of this historic Georgian town, renowned for its boutique shops, art galleries, cosy cafés, and excellent restaurants. Enjoy the added bonus of being just a short drive from the breathtaking North Norfolk coastline. ✨ Features: Spacious 2nd-floor apartment Double glazing & electric heating Modern fitted kitchen with oven, hob & extractor Contemporary bathroom & new flooring throughout Allocated parking + visitor spaces Communal gardens & drying area A Perfect blend of comfort and convenience! 🌟 Discover more over on our website: https://lnkd.in/edj3_s6h 📲 Call our lettings team now - 01603 751555 #tolet #letting #rental #rentalproperty #holt #norfolk