Thoughts from our Property Experts

In our latest post on “Thoughts from our Property Experts” Laurence Lai explores the process of booking a home valuation and why YOUhome market appraisals offer one of the most comprehensive approaches in prime Central London.
To illustrate our unique approach, we have addressed the South Kensington property market to answer your most frequently asked questions.

How do I find the best property market appraisal in South Kensington?
As a home owner the first question you may ask yourself is how do I find lout the value of my flat or house? Home-owners can book a free property market appraisal with YOUhome on our website. Alternatively call us or email us.

 Also note estate agents carry out “Market Appraisals” and Surveyors/Valuers carry out “Valuations” of properties.  

Why should you ask about your estate agent’s track record when booking a house valuation?
If you own a property in South Kensington, ask your estate agent if they have sold prime property in South Kensington. Ask the YOUhome team and you will discover we have sold prime properties across South Kensington including some of the most desirable neighbourhoods such as Onslow Gardens, Cornwall Gardens, the Queen’s Gate’s Rutland Street and Harrington Gardens to mention a few. 

Will I see a property price per square foot map in my postcode area when I book a valuation?
Today, buyers and sellers show heightened interest in London property price per square foot data in addition to sold South Kensington house price data. YOUhome includes this data in our Market Appraisals.

How long does a house valuation take?
It depends on the size of the property and how long a potential client wishes to discuss the valuation.  Typically, YOUhome allows one hour for a Market Appraisal. 

Valuations are not an exact science and if you ask three agents into your property, you are likely to get three different prices. Comparative data helps reach a final decision on which agent to instruct to sell your home.

What’s the benefit of using an independent estate agent (boutique London estate agent) versus a national company brand?
At YOUhome Property Experts, the person who undertakes your market appraisal will be your point of contact if instructed to sell your home.  They will also be the person who carries out viewings and they will negotiate any offers received on your behalf. 
The way that the larger corporate estate agencies are structured, the person who you meet during a Market Appraisal will then pass on the process to other members of staff and you will probably not hear from or see that person again.  Their job is just to meet potential clients and “List” the property. 

How accurate are online house valuations?

 Not very accurate at all!  There are many, many factors to consider before arriving at a marketing / valuation price.  As we illustrate in our reports, one factor is based on a GBP £ per square foot basis, and other factors include: location, position, condition, layout, design, aspect, facilities, plot size, history, demand and uniqueness.

That is why we offer clients a first step online property valuation tool and then YOUhome strongly recommends you book an appointment with us to receive a full report. 

 What makes a YOUhome market appraisal unique? 

If you are thinking of selling your home in South Kensington, contact us now to book your free market appraisal. We would be delighted to help.

About Laurence Lai:
Laurence Lai is Chief Operating Officer and Sales Director at YOUhome Property Experts. 
He is a well-respected and well-known property industry professional, having spent over 30 years selling prime London homes in central London’s golden postcodes including Chelsea, Belgravia, Mayfair, Kensington, Holland Park and Notting Hill. 
Before joining YOUhome Property Experts, Laurence was a Partner and Office Head at Knight Frank, London. Prior to this, he was a Board Director at Faron Sutaria, responsible for the Chelsea, Earls Court, Notting Hill and South Kensington offices. Across his career, Laurence has transacted over 1,000 luxury home sales in Prime Central London.