Peter Wyatt

Fothergill Wyatt

Confidence is the most important factor for the progress of the property market in 2012.

One can be forgiven for thinking that prospects deteriorated throughout last year with economic turmoil in Europe and difficulty for first-time buyers; and we are told that mortgage finance will become even more stringent.

Opportunities however may just be more abundant in 2012 than first perceived.

Investment analysts tell you to buy assets in a market downturn in order to benefit from the turnaround, and property is no different in applying this theory.

If the concern of further price falls prevent a purchaser from making a move then they should consider factors beyond simply what prices may be doing nationally.

Are prices falling, rising or stable in the locality you are searching in?

Can you negotiate a good price for the property you are interested in now?

How can you benefit most from a property purchase in this market?

There is huge pent-up demand in the UK at all levels of the market, particularly in Leicestershire and it is confidence that is key to convert that demand to activity. It was recently written here that the upper and lower market was busy and the middle market is most impacted by recent mortgage restriction, but there are far more finance options available than people may think.

In London, demand continues to outstrip supply leading to continuing price rises.

The good news for Leicestershire is this problem in the capital city provides for increasing growth in popularity of commuter towns and cities, of which Leicester, Market Harborough and Loughborough will all benefit.

This should give confidence to us all over the county and particularly in areas with convenient access to local train stations and motorways.

Purchasers should also be confident that they can make purchases now that stand them in good stead for the future.

Whether your move is for the short, medium or long term, properties should currently be marketed accurately and competitively and huge benefits can be made moving both up and down the ladder.

Taking advantage of competitive prices is not the only way to make the most of a move this year.

Rental homes in a busy lettings market offer flexibility to sell your own, wait for your ideal home and move quickly when the opportunity arises.

Fothergill Wyatt offer their knowledge and range of services to advise sellers and purchasers alike in making the very best move in 2012 and importantly, with confidence.