Tag: real estate

How to Avoid Paying Council Tax on an Empty Property

Understanding Council Tax

Council tax is a local tax set by the council and applies to all residential properties. The amount depends on your property’s value, whether it’s a house for sale or an occupied residence. Generally, the more valuable your property, the higher the council tax. Even if a property is unoccupied, owners are usually required to pay council tax.

Council Tax on Empty Properties

If you own an empty property, council tax is still applicable. However, some councils offer discounts or exemptions for certain circumstances. For instance, properties that have been empty for two years or more might incur an additional charge known as an ’empty home premium.’ The exact amount varies depending on how long the property has been vacant.

Exemptions from Council Tax on Empty Properties

There are specific situations where council tax may not be charged on empty properties:

  1. Annex Exemption: If the empty property is an annex to another property, it may be exempt.
  2. Armed Forces Accommodation: Properties left empty due to the owner’s relocation to armed forces accommodation are exempt.
  3. Deceased Owner: If you are selling a property on behalf of a deceased owner and the property remains empty, it may be exempt.
  4. Care Home or Hospital: Properties left empty because the owner has moved into a care home or hospital are also exempt.
  5. Legal Restrictions: Homes that cannot be legally inhabited, such as derelict properties, are exempt.
  6. Compulsory Purchase Orders: Properties that have been compulsorily purchased and are set for demolition are exempt from council tax.

How Long Can a Property Be Left Empty?

You can leave a property empty for as long as you want, but properties that are unfurnished and empty for more than two years may incur higher charges. To avoid these additional costs, consider either selling or renting the property. This not only helps avoid extra council tax charges but also generates income.

What to Do with an Empty Property?

To avoid paying council tax on an empty property, you have a couple of options:

  • Sell the Property: This is a straightforward solution if you no longer need the property. Estate agents can help you navigate the sale process efficiently.
  • Rent the Property: Renting can generate income and ensure the property is occupied, potentially qualifying for discounts. Whether it’s a commercial property or a residential one, listing it for rent can be managed by the best estate agents in your area.

In conclusion, while council tax is generally payable on empty properties, various exemptions and strategies can help reduce or avoid these costs.

How Do I Switch Estate Agents in London?

Switching estate agents in London can be a strategic move if you’re not getting the desired results with your current agent. This guide covers when and how to switch estate agents in London, considerations before making the change, and important steps to follow for a smooth transition. We also answer frequently asked questions about switching estate agents in London.

When Should You Change Estate Agents?

Changing estate agents, especially in a competitive market like London, is a significant decision. It involves risks, but switching from an underperforming agent can have many benefits. Consider changing agents if:

  • Your agents aren’t responsive or don’t communicate as agreed.
  • You haven’t had many (or any) house viewings.
  • Their properties aren’t advertised on online property advertising platforms .

Can You Change Estate Agents in London?

Yes, you can change estate agents in London, but you might be subject to a minimum tie-in period. This is the minimum time your estate agent has to market your house, usually ranging from 4 to 12 weeks. Check your contract for tie-in periods and any fees for early termination.

Considerations Before Switching Estate Agents

Before switching, consider these factors:

  • Fixed Fee Contract: You might have to pay a fee to exit the contract.
  • Sole Agency Agreement: Your agent only gets a fee if they find a buyer.
  • Sole Selling Rights Agreement: You’ll have to pay the fee, no matter what.

Review your contract to understand your position and rights. Speak with a solicitor if you’re confused about your rights.

Why Do You Want to Switch?

Create a list of reasons why you’re unhappy with your current agent and note the positives too. This balanced approach will help you make a rational decision about whether to leave your current agent.

Common Reasons to Switch:

  • Lack of Communication: If your agent doesn’t respond to messages or calls, it’s a sign of poor service.
  • No House Viewings: Consider if it’s due to poor marketing or other factors.
  • Property Not Listed Online: Your agent isn’t doing their job if your property isn’t on major platforms.
  • Pressure to Reduce Asking Price: Ensure you get at least three valuations to set the right price.

How to Change Estate Agents in London

Switching agents can be straightforward if you follow these steps:

  1. Review Your Tie-in Period: Check your contract for the tie-in period.
  2. Give Notice: Many contracts require a minimum notice period.
  3. Create an Agent Shortlist: Compare and contrast terms and conditions.
  4. Interview Agents: Ask questions like, “Why do you think my property hasn’t sold?”
  5. Choose a New Agent: Discuss and establish terms before signing a new contract.

Important Things to Do When Changing Estate Agents

  • Read Your Contract: Understand the tie-in period and potential exit fees.
  • Give Notice: Ensure you follow the correct notice period to avoid breaching the contract.
  • Get Details Passed On: Request details of previous viewers from your old agent.

Will Switching Estate Agents Cost More?

You may need to pay your old agent if you signed a fixed-price sole selling rights agreement. Examine your agreement carefully before switching.

FAQs

Can you get out of an estate agent contract in London?

Yes, you can exit during the cool-off period or in case of a contract breach.

Can you have two estate agents in London?

Yes, but it depends on your agreement. Some agents include exclusivity agreements in their contracts.

How do I give notice to an estate agent in London?

Check your contract for the notice period and give notice in writing via email or letter.

Can I cancel my estate agent contract within 14 days in London?

Yes, many contracts include a 14-day cooling-off period.

Will I have to pay commission to my old agent after switching in London?

You might have to if you signed a sole selling rights agreement.

Can I sell my house privately in London after listing with an estate agent?

No, you must wait for your contract period to end to avoid paying fees.

When is an estate agent in London entitled to commission?

Commission fees are usually due upon conclusion of the sale.

How To Find The Right Estate Agent in Edinburgh?

House hunting is anything but easy. Whether you’re looking for some temporary renting possibilities or dreaming of settling down on your favorite property in Edinburgh- cracking the real estate market is no bed of roses. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for sub par living accommodations; especially when you have top-notch estate agents in Edinburgh right at your disposal.

If you’re in the market for a new home and you’re not sure how to land the perfect estate agent, we have a few tips for you to consider.  It’s important to find the right estate agent to help you through the process. But there are possibly a hundred estate agents out there; how can you possibly decide who’s the best for you and where will you find them?

We can help you with that-

Meet Top 10 Property Agents

Gone are the days when you had to physically run around from place to place, searching for the right estate agent. We understand how difficult and taxing the house hunting process can be; and that’s why have created a ready directory listing all the cream Edinburgh letting agents. All you have to do is visit our official page and browse through our index of estate agents. When you find the one you like, simply connect with them and take your house hunting process forward.

Your To-Do List Before you Select Your Estate Agent

Do your research

The first step is to do some research on the different estate agents in your area. Find out about school districts, safety of a particular place, rising costs in and around the city, and more. Usually, online reviews are the best place to start. If you’re not sure where to begin, your estate agent can also be of massive help to you.

Meet the agents

Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few agents, it’s time to meet them in person. This will give you a chance to see if you feel comfortable working with them and to ask any questions you may have.

Ask around

Before you sign anything, it’s important to ask around for referrals. Friends and family are a great place to start, and you can also check online review sites like Trust Pilot to see what other people have had to say.

Get a quote

Before you commit to an agent, be sure to get a quote for their services. This will give you a crystal clear idea of the type of budget you want to invest, along with additional ideas like the market rate, cost of additional services. In fact, this can also help you identify hidden costs and if they are being levied or not.

Now that you have a fair idea of where and how to begin, start with your research right away and when you’re sure about moving to Edinburgh, visit our Top 10 Property Agents website to connect with the best letting agents in Edinburgh.