Should I buy or sell in 2022? Read on for important tips.

If you're looking for a new home in 2022, read our guide to buying a flat in London and try these tips.

“Get out and research the areas you're considering. Walk the main streets, take transit to work, and learn as much as you can about the area. What would it be like to live here? Think about it.” – Ashley, Foxtons Croydon.

“The perfect property doesn't always exist. Be prepared to compromise and you might get a good result. Ten minutes more work and you might have a garden instead of a balcony. Flexibility often allows buyers to own a home in less time and with less stress.'' – Roberto, New Homes West

Focus on up to 3-4 areas. Don't look at too many. I feel overwhelmed. Sign up with a real estate agent, email them a nice message on a Sunday night, and they'll be the first to email you on Monday, delivering new inventory to you before anyone else.'' – Oliver, Fox Tons Notting Hill

“Looking at a variety of properties will help you become an expert at getting your money's worth on the market. You may also be surprised by what you end up buying compared to what you thought you were looking for.” – Michael, Foxtons Richmond & Twickenham.

Demand is high in the housing market right now, so many of our managers encourage you to be prepared and get started as soon as possible.

“London saw a decline in the amount of new properties coming to market in Q4 2021. We do not expect this to return to 'normal' levels anytime soon, but this theme will continue into 2022. I expect it to continue. Buyers will inevitably be competing with other real estate agents to purchase the property. The most desirable properties of 2022. – Jas, Foxton's Shepherd's Bush

“Chelsea has a small window of opportunity to take advantage of the coronavirus pricing and I have a seriously motivated customer who represents the best value of my career.” Seriously considering a purchase If so, make sure you have the right team working. ” – Gabriella, Foxtons Sloane Square

“Package yourself so your offer is better accepted. Meet with a 'full market' mortgage broker who can offer you the best products while maximizing your buying power.” We are working with Alexander Hall who can assist with this. ” – Tom, Foxton Battersea

Once you've found your ideal home, it may be time to make an offer. Steve from Foxtons Kingston office says:

“An offer is more than just a number; it's the details within the offer, how it sets you up for success. Before you make an offer, be sure to understand the buying process and what's required. Process Please make this understanding part of your offer.

Meanwhile, Foxton's Crystal Palace's Simon added:

“A new year always brings competition with more buyers looking to find a new home, and it looks like 2022 will be no exception. Don't be afraid to pay. In 2021, many buyers lose out because they are too focused on trying to win a “deal” by offering a low price on their dream home. We looked, and as a result, another buyer came swooping in and quickly offered us the asking price and secured the property. . ”

For tips on sending offers, see our blog Creating offers.

There's a lot to think about when buying a home, but as Miriame from St John's Wood points out, it's worth the trouble.

“Have fun and enjoy the experience. You are about to make the biggest purchase of your life. It can be scary, but owning your own home is also incredibly exciting and rewarding. .”

Before you start selling your home, gather potential buyers. You may also need to consider selling now. Sean from the Foxtons Harrow office said:

“It is fundamentally important to put your property on the market before finding a suitable next move. Just because a seller has not started marketing their property does not mean that the seller has no interest in future properties. I often see a more profitable buyer accept the offer in the meantime.”

So if your goal is to sell in 2022, Fleur of Foxtons Earl's Court suggests starting now.

“We are really looking forward to 2022. Every January we are flooded with new inquiries from buyers who were talking to their families over Christmas. Make the most of January momentum Therefore, sellers should also try to make sure they are ready to make a deal.”

You can start your home appraisal online.

There are a few things you should do right away to get your property ready for sale.

“Before you sell your property or go to viewings, make sure you have a lawyer in place, arrange financing, and make sure your property is presented in the best possible way to generate more interest.” – Adam , Foxton's New Malden

“Before you make a new purchase offer, you need to have a clear understanding of affordability and a realistic selling price. My top tip for sellers is to consult an IFA (Independent Financial Advisor) before the property goes on the market. ) to see if it's affordable.'' – Ryan, Foxtons Bromley.

“Have your builder line up early and go with the agency's surveyor. They will also get you in the door early. – Charles, Foxtons Marlbone & Mayfair

Every new year brings with it the excitement of starting anew. Why not take advantage of that motivation? Rob from South Kensington said:

“Declutter and recolor as needed to make the best first impression possible.” Additionally, access is important. Having a property viewed can be a hassle, but the easier and more flexible you can set viewing times, the more likely your property will sell quickly. ”

Kyle from New Homes Central South explained something that many managers have touched on: sellers need to be “sales ready.”

“When selling, if you have a management agent, let them know what you are looking for so they can provide you with the relevant management pack right away.”

Ben from Foxton's Hampstead framed it as 'transparency'.

“Be 'transparent' as a home seller.” Providing your real estate agent with as much documentation as possible will help them get a less stressful, more informed buyer, and hopefully less hassle. You can create a sales experience that is less expensive. As a homebuyer, once again, be “transparent.” Provide your real estate agent with your mortgage offer, proof of your down payment, and as much background story as possible. This allows us to market you as the best buyer over your competitors. ”

We suggested that buyers start by communicating with their agents, and sellers should do the same. Choosing the right agent can make a big difference in your real estate journey. Chris from Foxtons London Bridge said:

“Sellers need agents who can not only provide great service, but also the ability to deliver great results, because if the last six months go well, 2022 looks to be an exciting year. We recommend that you consult with your agent as soon as possible.”