Property Insights – Welcome to the Fish2sell Blog

26th November

Midlands Market Insight —

As we head deeper into the winter months across Ashby, Swadlincote, Coalville and the surrounding areas, we’re seeing some clear trends in the market — and they’re worth knowing if you’re thinking of moving.

Buyers Are More Serious
Winter viewers tend to be motivated. They’re not browsing for fun — they’re ready to move, especially before spring competition ramps up.
Fewer Homes Come to Market
This gives sellers an advantage. With less choice available, well-priced homes stand out more and often attract stronger interest.
Realistic Pricing Matters
Buyers are being selective. Homes that launch at the right price are getting attention, while overpriced listings are sitting longer.
Lifestyle Still Leads Decisions
Good schools, walkable locations, green spaces and strong transport links are driving demand across all our local towns — not just one hotspot.
Early 2026 Plans Are Already Starting
Many buyers use November and December to line up mortgages, view shortlisted areas and get ready to act quickly in January.

What This Means for You
Whether you're buying or selling, having a clear picture of the winter market helps you stay one step ahead.
If you want tailored advice for your town or your property, we’re here to guide you through your next move with real local insight.

Market insights are based on current local activity and general trends. Every property and situation is different, so always seek personalised advice before making decisions.

12th November

Winter Ready Homes — Preparing Your Property for the Season Ahead

As the colder months settle in across the Midlands, now’s the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for winter — whether you’re planning to sell, buy, or simply stay cosy where you are.

While the property market tends to slow a little as the year winds down, this season can actually be one of the best times to stand out. Buyers looking now are serious, and sellers who prepare their homes well can make a lasting impression — even on the frostiest days.

For Sellers: Create Warmth and Welcome

When temperatures drop, buyers want to feel at home the moment they walk through the door.

A few small touches can make a big difference:

Light and warmth: Turn on lamps, draw curtains before viewings, and keep the home comfortably heated.

Seasonal charm: Add a soft throw, light a candle, or showcase a winter wreath — subtle touches that make a space inviting.

Kerb appeal counts: Keep pathways clear of leaves and make sure your outdoor lighting works. A welcoming glow can help your home stand out on darker evenings.

Remember, you’re not just selling a property — you’re selling that feeling of coming home on a chilly night.

For Buyers: Look Beyond the Cosy Glow

Winter can be one of the smartest times to buy. Fewer listings mean less competition, and you get to see how a home performs when it really matters — in the colder months.

Check the essentials: Ask about insulation, boiler servicing, and window quality — these make a real difference to comfort and energy bills.

Notice how it feels: Is it draught-free and warm? Does it get good natural light even on grey days?

Picture your lifestyle: Imagine next spring or summer here — could this be the place you look forward to coming home to after work or a winter walk?

The Takeaway

Whether you’re selling or buying, preparation is key. A well-cared-for home — one that feels warm, bright, and loved — always stands out.

And as we head into winter, remember: it’s not just about weatherproofing your property, it’s about finding (or presenting) a place where life feels good all year round.

Because even in the coldest months, the right home will always give you that warm feeling.

29th October

More buyers are choosing homes with heart — not just extra rooms. Here’s why community is becoming the new currency in property

Homes with Heart — Why Community Matters More Than Ever

Over the past year, we’ve seen a real shift in what buyers value most. It’s no longer just about square footage, driveways, or kitchen islands — it’s about connection.

With prices steady across the Midlands and buyers becoming more selective this autumn, lifestyle and location are taking centre stage.

More people are looking for somewhere that feels right — a place where they can put down roots, join a community, and enjoy life beyond the front door.

And towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch are standing out because they offer just that
Independent shops, great schools, green spaces, and that friendly local feel — it all adds up to a sense of belonging that buyers are prioritising more than ever.

For Sellers:
Remember, buyers aren’t just buying your house — they’re buying your street, your neighbourhood, and your lifestyle.
Highlight what makes living there special: a favourite coffee spot, the park down the road, or that morning light in the kitchen. It all helps paint a picture.

For Buyers:
When a place just feels right — trust that feeling. Visit the high street, explore the area, talk to locals. The right community can make all the difference.

Because at the heart of every great move isn’t just property — it’s people.

15th October 2025

Where Buyers Are Looking This Autumn — Spotlight on Ashby & The East Midlands

Following on from my last post about the UK housing market, let’s zoom in on what’s happening locally in the Midlands and where buyers are focusing their attention this autumn.

Even as national growth remains modest, towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch continue to attract strong interest due to their balance of lifestyle, location, and long-term value.

Spotlight on Ashby & Surrounding Areas

Ashby remains highly desirable for families and professionals. Its excellent schools, thriving high street, and green spaces make it one of the East Midlands’ standout market towns.

Commuter convenience: Quick access to Leicester, Derby, Burton-on-Trent, and Loughborough keeps Ashby popular with those seeking countryside living without losing city connections.

Neighbouring growth: Nearby towns such as Coalville, Swadlincote, and Burton are benefiting from regeneration projects and local investment, keeping demand healthy.

Lifestyle appeal: Buyers are prioritising community, flexible layouts for home working, and energy-efficient homes — all strengths for Ashby and surrounding villages.

For Buyers

Homes that are ready to move into and energy-efficient are in high demand.

Mortgage pre-approval is still crucial for acting quickly in a competitive local market.

Keep an eye on emerging pockets around Ashby for better value without compromising on location.

For Sellers

Homes that are well-presented and realistically priced are still selling steadily.

Highlight commuter links, school catchments, and local amenities, as these are top priorities for buyers.

Flexibility on completion or minor negotiations can help secure the right sale.

The Bottom Line

The East Midlands continues to offer some of the most balanced opportunities in the UK housing market. Here in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, strong community appeal, good connectivity, and local investment make this area a standout choice for buyers and sellers alike.

With careful planning and realistic expectations, autumn 2025 is a great time to make your move.

30 September 2025

Is Now the Right Time to Buy or Sell a Home?

The UK housing market has remained resilient throughout 2025 — but it continues to evolve. Here’s what the latest available data (June–July 2025) shows:

House Prices

Average UK house price: approximately £270,000

Annual growth: +2.8% compared with last year

Regional contrast: North East up around 7.9%, London up just 0.7%

Month-to-month growth (June → July 2025): +0.3%

For Buyers

Affordability is influenced more by interest rates than by small shifts in house prices.

Mortgage pre-approval can strengthen your position and give you a clearer budget.

Remember that the data above reflects mid-summer activity — always review current listings to understand the latest local market trends.

For Sellers

Well-presented, realistically priced homes continue to attract the most serious buyers.

In slower-growth regions, flexibility on pricing or terms can help secure a faster sale.

Local activity since July may have shifted demand slightly, so monitor new data as it becomes available.

The Bigger Picture
Interest rates, inflation, and local demand remain key factors shaping the property market. The modest monthly growth seen in mid-2025 points to a steady but cautious environment.

The Bottom Line
There is no universal “right time” to buy or sell. Your personal circumstances — financial readiness, lifestyle, and long-term goals — matter most. With the right strategy, both buyers and sellers can succeed in today’s market.

At Fish2sell, we’ll be sharing weekly insights and tips to help you make confident property decisions.

We’re excited to announce the launch of our very own Housing Market Blog – your go-to place for clear, practical, and professional insights into the ever-changing property world.

24 September 2025

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Market updates made simple – breaking down the latest trends so you know what’s happening in the housing market.
Tips for buyers and sellers – practical advice to help you make confident decisions, whether you’re moving soon or just exploring your options.
Big picture insights – from economic shifts to local market news, we’ll explain how wider changes may impact property right here in our community.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on the market, our blog is here to keep you informed, empowered, and ahead of the curve.

Stay tuned – our first in-depth post is coming soon.