Welcome to The Property Podcast with Wards Estate Agent, hosted by Garry Wilson. This is a monthly podcast that will share with you all the latest Kent property news, as well as speaking with industry professionals to offer advice and tips that will hopefully help make your house moving journey a less stressful one.
Site
RSS
Apple
Data updated on 04/07/2026
Recent rankings
Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.
Shared links between episodes and podcasts
Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.
Discover shows related to The Property Podcast with Wards Estate Agent, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
Potential solutions include rent control balanced with fair landlord profits.
Legislation Impact on Landlords:
Section 24 tax reforms affecting profitability.
Importance of maintaining quality housing amidst increasing regulations.
Government's Role in Affordable Housing:
Need for increased supply through relaxed stamp duty surcharges.
Encouragements like grants or support schemes could stabilize rents.
Reputation Management within Industry:
Misconceptions around landlords being wealthy; many are accidental or small-scale investors.
Necessity for responsible media portrayal focusing on reality rather than sensationalism.
Regulations & Professional Standards in Real Estate Industry:
Call for compulsory licensing/qualifications across estate agents to ensure professionalism.
Training initiatives at Wards ensuring staff are well-equipped to handle complex legislation effectively.
Future Considerations & Closing Thoughts: – Emphasis on creating hope and opportunities for first-time buyers through innovative financial products like bonds inspired by French models.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
S02E08: How Our Government Could Do Better To Help The Housing Market Part One
Episode 17
Thursday, November 21, 2024 • Duration 22:35
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 8 - How Our Government Could Do Better To Help The Housing Market: Part One
Unlock the secrets to a balanced housing market in this episode of The Property Podcast with Wards!
Join Garry Wilson and his esteemed guests as they delve into the pressing issues affecting the UK housing sector. From political will and funding challenges to innovative solutions for first-time buyers, this episode is packed with expert insights. Discover what a 25-year cross-party property manifesto could look like and explore imaginative strategies to make homeownership attainable.
Key Discussion Points:Long-Term Housing Strategy:
Cross-Party Agreement: A call for a strategic plan spanning at least 25 years to ensure continuity beyond political cycles.
Non-political Approach: Emphasising the importance of removing politics from long-term housing solutions.
Immediate Actions Needed:
Funding Challenges: Exploring funding sources and mechanisms to support balanced and accessible housing markets.
Developer Uncertainty: Addressing developers' hesitance due to unpredictable government policies.
Young Buyers & First-Time Homeownership:
Affordability Crisis: Discussing barriers young people face entering the property ladder today compared to previous decades.
Innovative Solutions Needed:
Government-backed deposit schemes similar to France’s bond system.
Expanding current home-buy programs beyond new builds.
Stamp Duty Reform:
Simplification needed across all levels; potential abolition or reduction for downsizers or specific age groups like over-sixties/seventies.
Vacancy Taxes & Energy Efficiency Incentives:
Introducing vacancy taxes on empty properties could incentivize repurposing them into affordable homes.
Industry Responsibility & Innovation:
Additional Insights:Closing Remarks
S02E07: Autumn 2024 Budget Review | Good or Bad for the Housing Market?
Episode 16
Thursday, November 14, 2024 • Duration 38:41
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 7 - Autumn 2024 Budget Review | Good or Bad for the Housing Market?
Key Discussion PointsStamp Duty Changes
Increase for Second Properties: An immediate increase from 3% to 5% stamp duty on additional properties.
Impact on Landlords: Higher costs may deter some investors; potential rent increases as landlords offset new expenses.
Market Reactions
Immediate Impact: Buyers reconsidering purchases due to sudden tax changes; pressure on estate agents to renegotiate deals.
Rates remain unchanged for property but increased for other assets.
Overseas Investment Concerns
Potential future changes in non-domicile tax status could affect foreign investment appeal in UK properties.
Mortgage Interest Rates
Current rates seen as sustainable despite economic uncertainties.
First-Time Buyer Challenges
Upcoming reversal of stamp duty thresholds could prompt a rush before April 2025 deadline.
Missing Elements from the Budget
First-Time Buyer Support: Lack of schemes like Help to Buy limits options for new buyers entering the market.
Planning Restrictions Reform: Need for easing planning restrictions to boost housing supply.
Closing Thoughts:
There's an urgent need for comprehensive reforms in taxation policies related to real estate and emphasises educating first-time buyers about forthcoming financial impacts due to policy shifts.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
S02E06: How AI And Technology Will Change The Future Of Buying A House
Episode 15
Thursday, November 7, 2024 • Duration 22:50
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 6 - How AI And Technology Will Change The Future Of Buying A House
Key Points:
1. Introduction and Context:
Emphasis on estate agency as a people-centric business despite technological advances.
2. Impact of Technology on Estate Agency:
Evolution Over Time:
Transition from traditional methods (1980s) to modern online property portals.
Enhanced marketing reach and data-driven insights through online platforms.
Changing Business Practices:
Shift from newspaper mass-marketing to detailed local knowledge and personalized service.
Utilisation of actionable data from online portals for better decision-making.
3. Challenges and Competitive Landscape:
Increased competition due to global reach via technology.
Rising standards for quality property presentation (photos, descriptions).
Persistence of personal touch amidst emerging online-only models.
4. Technological Innovations:
VR and AI:
Virtual reality tours, 3D views, video calls – pivotal during COVID-19.
AI enhancing services with chatbots, data analytics for staff training/coaching.
Emerging Technologies:
Augmented reality headsets for space visualisation.
Use of drones for quick surveys/virtual tours.
AI applications in customer interactions & sentiment analysis.
5. Maintaining Security and Human Touch:
Data Security:
S02E05: A Career In Estate Agency
Episode 14
Thursday, October 31, 2024 • Duration 25:52
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 5 - A Career In Estate Agency
🏡 Key Topics Discussed📞 The Importance of Great Conversations
The phone as an agent's best friend.
Building relationships through meaningful conversations.
Seeing customer support as a privilege.
👩💼 Career Paths in Estate Agency
Suitable backgrounds for aspiring estate agents.
Traits that make successful professionals:
Passion for property.
Excellent telephone manner.
Empathy and resilience.
💼 Transferable Skills & Training
Importance of great customer service skills.
Continuous training from day one; classroom and field training included.
🌟 Values & Company Culture
Honesty, integrity, respect – core values lived daily by employees.
Community involvement through charity work like climbing Snowdon or walking the Seven Sisters.
🏆 Competitions & Rewards
Fun competitions within the company offering trips to New York or Europe based on performance metrics like customer experience points.
🌐 Technology & Social Media in Recruitment
Alice McDonald discusses how technology plays a crucial role:
Use of social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) to showcase company culture and vacancies.
Positive reviews on Glassdoor and Indeed help attract potential candidates.
🚀 Day-to-Day Life as an Estate Agent
A typical day includes:
Morning meetings with coffee discussing previous days’ business.
Booking appointments and liaising with mortgage advisers.
Viewing properties or hosting open house events in the afternoon.
🤝 Interview Process Insights
Claire Goodenough explains what applicants can expect:
Fast response times (within 24 hours).
Initial Teams meeting interview lasting about 20–30 minutes focused on getting to know you as a person.
💬 Final Thoughts: People Over Property?
S02E04: First-Time Mortgages Explained
Episode 13
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 • Duration 16:38
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 4 - First Time Mortgages Explained
Basic Explanation of Mortgages:
Definition: A mortgage is a long-term loan (typically 25-35 years) with lower interest rates than standard loans, aimed at property acquisition.
Key Nature: Large loan over a long period with a smaller interest rate.
Types of Mortgages and Considerations for First-Time Buyers:
Deposit Requirement: Minimum 5%.
Lender Schemes:
Parent-backed savings for mortgage security.
First Home Scheme offering properties at 30% less market value.
Favourable rates on new builds.
Evaluation Parameters:
Single income: 4.5 times the salary.
Joint income: Combined income times 4.5.
Financial Assessments:
Lenders check three months of bank statements and payslips.
Self-Employed Borrowers:
Requires two years of trading profit records. Assessment includes available funds and repayment capabilities.
Credit Scores:
Importance: Reflects payment reliability and borrowing history.
Improvement Tips:
Timely bill payments.
Managing existing debt.
Mitigation options exist even without credit history or minor past defaults.
Interest Rates and Repayment Structures:
Types:
Fixed Rates
Recommended for predictability and budgeting.
Variable Rates
Could fluctuate based on market conditions.
Important Considerations for Long-Term Affordability:Repayment & Exit Fees:Protection Policies:Final Tips & Golden Rules For First-Time Buyers:
S02E03: How To Make Money From Your Property
Episode 12
Wednesday, October 16, 2024 • Duration 35:51
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 3 - How to Make Money from Your Property
Key Discussion Points:
Long-Term Family-Oriented Tenants vs. High-Income Transient Renters
Properties in family-centric areas often attract long-term tenants.
Premium locations tend to draw high-income but transient renters.
Business Approach to Letting Properties
Rental properties should be viewed as businesses.
Compliance with safety regulations is crucial (e.g., electrics, gas).
Renovation and Investment Strategy
Keep improvements classic and neutral for broad tenant appeal.
Avoid over-personalising renovations.
Types of Property Investments
Investors may seek either capital growth or immediate rental income.
Understanding financial goals is essential (capital appreciation vs high yields).
Challenges of Renting by Room
Requires careful consideration of licensing laws and occupancy rates.
Increased management workload needs thorough calculation for viability.
Importance of Professional Advice Despite online resources, consulting a lettings expert can prevent costly mistakes.
Choosing the Right Property Consider demographic stability; less desirable areas might offer stable prospects.
Maximising Land Value
Introduce developers familiar with local planning systems.
Explore options beyond residential development e.g., commercial uses or retirement facilities.
Timing & Planning Applications
There’s no universally best time; appropriate developer submission optimizes value.
Detailed Insights:
S02E02: I'm Unhappy With My Estate Agent
Episode 11
Wednesday, October 9, 2024 • Duration 17:38
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 2 - I’m Unhappy with My Current EstateAgent
**Key Points:**
1. **Estate Agency Agreements:**
- Read through agreements carefully.
- Understand terms like sole agency (one agent) vs multi-agency (multiple agents).
- Sole agency often gives a better impression and commitment but know how long you’re committed.
2. **Fees & Services:**
- Be clear on charges including VAT.
- Some services may incur extra fees (e.g., photography).
3. **Termination:**
- Notice periods are typically 14 days post-fixed term.
- Agents will charge if they introduced the buyer even privately sold properties under sole selling rights.
4. **Rights & Complaints:**
- Know your rights; all agents must belong to a redress scheme like The Property Ombudsman.
- Formalize complaints via email or letter if necessary before involving the ombudsman for unresolved issues.
5. **Switching Agents:**
– Ensure full release from previous agreement before signing new one.
– Obtain list of prospective buyers from outgoing agent for clarity in future dealings.
For trusted advice, visit The Property Ombudsman's website or contact their consumer guides directly for accurate information rather than relying solely on hearsay.
To sum up:
- Serve out required notice
S02E01: Achieving The Best Price For Your Property
Episode 10
Wednesday, October 2, 2024 • Duration 25:52
THE PROPERTY PODCAST with WARDS ESTATE AGENT SERIES 2
Episode 1 - Achieving The Best Price For Your Property
Introduction
Welcome to Series 2 of the Property Podcast
Host: Garry Wilson introduces the podcast and its focus on Kent property news.
Special guest: Gemma Duckworth discusses strategies for achieving the best price for your property.
Key Discussion Points
Importance of Open Houses
Open houses can help achieve the best price.
Tailored open house plans make clients feel comfortable.
Suitable for both investors and long-time homeowners.
Effective Marketing Strategies
Marketing is crucial in influencing sale prices.
Strategy planning starts before listing online.
Bespoke pre-launch approach targets potential buyers already in databases.
Testing market response through initial higher or competitive pricing.
Success Stories vs Horror Stories
Success Story: A family home listed competitively led to a high offer due to strategic marketing and open house events.
Horror Story: Overpricing leading to lost sales opportunities and financial losses during transactions.
Modern Techniques in Real Estate
Virtual Tours
Became popular during the pandemic; still widely used today.
Exclusive Previews via Website Launches
Properties are first launched on Wards' website before wider platforms like Rightmove or Zoopla, offering serious buyers an exclusive preview.
Tips for Sellers:Conclusion:
EP9: Completion Day
Episode 9
Tuesday, December 12, 2023 • Duration 16:20
In this, the final episode of this series of The Property Podcast with Wards, Garry Wilson will be discussing everything to do with Completion Day and Moving Into Your New Home with our special guest Tom Ross-Bason, Regional Managing Director at Wards Of Kent.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
Encouraging brave thinking within the industry itself rather than relying solely on governmental action.
Energy Efficiency Integration: Link energy efficiency improvements directly with incentives such as reduced stamp duty rates or council tax discounts.
Zoning Laws & Red Tape Reduction: Advocate for relaxed zoning laws and reduced bureaucratic hurdles that inhibit development projects.
A collaboration between government initiatives and private sector innovation is a crucial driver in creating a sustainable future for UK housing. Tune in next week for Part 2 where we continue this compelling discussion!
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
Importance of GDPR compliance, phishing awareness, encryption practices.
Balancing Technology with Human Interaction:
Empathy reduces client anxiety during home buying/selling processes.
Technology enhances but does not replace personal interactions; offering both digital/in-person services based on client preferences.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
Being people-oriented is more important than just having expertise in property when it comes to succeeding in this industry.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
Advisement: Consulting a mortgage adviser for tailored solutions is recommended.
Evaluating stable monthly payments in relation to income and expenses is crucial—planning based on potential changes like family planning or job changes helps ensure sustainability.
Nature: Charges apply when exiting a preferential rate mortgage early.
Common Allowance:* Lenders often permit up to10% overpayment per year without fees.
Guarding against exit fees involves careful calculation when planning refinancing.
Income protection plans can cover mortgage payments in case of illness or job loss.
1 Understand Personal Finances Assess affordability monthly basis
2 Agreement In Principle (AIP) Obtain it without paying fees
3 Register With Estate Agents For early access to properties before they hit portals
4 Organise Paperwork Prepare bank statements, payslips and other required documents expedite process
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
Future Prospects & Government Influence:
Optimism due to government policy changes emphasizing certain development areas.
Local Planning Authorities (LPAs)
Governed by National Planning Policy Framework dictating housing needs in specific areas.
Selecting Developers
Choose developers who understand local authority regulations.
Land Separation for Private Individuals
Subdividing land creates additional opportunities but requires awareness of tax implications.
Investment Opportunities in Kent
-Factors include resale values constraints like flooding risks regulatory limitations Greenbelt AONB etc
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
- Get confirmation you're free to instruct another agent
- Keep track of applicants introduced by both old and new agents
Common misconceptions about estate agents include beliefs that they handle every aspect alone—many professionals play crucial roles in successful transactions.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk
or wherever you listen to your podcasts
For Sale Boards: Simple yet effective method to attract local interest early on.
Realistic Pricing: Engage with agents who provide evidence-based valuations rather than speculative high figures that may not sell quickly.
Virtual Tours & Matterport Technology: Offers a comprehensive view of properties without physical visits initially, attracting serious buyers only after virtual tours.
The episode emphasises tailored approaches in real estate marketing—from bespoke pre-launch strategies to well-planned open houses—highlighting how these methods can lead sellers toward successful outcomes even amid challenging markets like those influenced by recent global events such as pandemics.
For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,
visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!
To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk