The Heat is On: Smarter Summer Living with Nest Living Issue 11
Summer brings a different rhythm to both our homes and the property market, and the latest edition of Nest Living – Issue 11 celebrates exactly that. From creating beautiful outdoor spaces that can thrive through hotter, drier weather to preparing a property to make the strongest possible impression on buyers, this issue is packed with practical advice, inspiration and some exceptional homes currently available through Nest Associates.
One of the standout features explores the heat-proof garden and how our approach to outdoor space is changing. Rather than battling increasingly dry summer conditions, we look at how homeowners can work with them, using drought-tolerant planting, Mediterranean influences and clever landscaping to create gardens that remain attractive while demanding less water and maintenance. Lavender, rosemary, thyme, salvias, ornamental grasses and olive trees can all play a part, while reducing areas of traditional lawn can create more varied, wildlife-friendly spaces that are both practical and beautiful.
The changing season is also being felt across the UK property market. This edition takes a closer look at the latest Rightmove data, with the average price of newly listed properties falling by 0.6% in June to £376,191 – the largest June fall in fourteen years. With buyers benefiting from plenty of choice, sellers are having to compete harder for attention, making both an accurate asking price and strong presentation increasingly important. Despite the more price-sensitive market, sales agreed remain broadly in line with recent years, while the average two-year fixed mortgage rate has eased from 5.18% to 5.07%, providing a small but welcome improvement in affordability.
That emphasis on presentation leads perfectly into an insightful contribution from Nest Associates' Jennifer Ladd, who explores The Power of Potential and why preparing a home for sale doesn't necessarily mean embarking on an expensive renovation. Buyers form opinions incredibly quickly, but relatively simple changes such as repositioning furniture, improving the flow through a room, making better use of natural light and removing unnecessary distractions can dramatically alter how a property feels. Thoughtful presentation isn't about disguising a home; it's about helping buyers understand its space, character and possibilities.
As Jennifer explains, the best properties aren't always those that appear perfect from the outset. Sometimes it's the homes with character, charm and potential that create the strongest connection. At Nest, this philosophy sits at the heart of how we market property. We believe every home has a story, and our job as marketeers as well as estate agents is to make sure prospective buyers are given the opportunity to see it.
Throughout Issue 11 you'll also discover an extensive collection of homes from across the areas our local associates serve. From substantial family homes and idyllic country properties to period cottages, contemporary Passivhaus living and coastal homes, the latest edition demonstrates just how varied today's property market can be. Highlights include a Victorian villa set within approximately an acre and a half beside the river in Bishops Hull, an elegant period home in Pewsey and a striking Passivhaus property in the heart of the Pewsey Vale.
At Nest Associates, we believe estate agency should remain personal, straightforward and centred around the individual customer. By combining dedicated local experts with modern technology and creative, lifestyle-focused marketing, we create bespoke strategies designed to help every home stand out in its marketplace.
Whether you're considering selling, searching for your next home or simply looking for inspiration for your current one, Nest Living Issue 11 is the perfect summer read.
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If you're thinking of moving, find your local Nest Associates property expert and discover how our approach to marketing could help your home stand out and achieve the best possible result.