Keywest Estate Agents / Jun 20

Name Your Property to Sell

It can seem like a great idea to give your home a quirky name, but beware: the wrong choice can put some buyers off when it comes time to enlist the help of the Keywest team and put your property on the market.

You might not think that a name will matter that much, but it can really make a difference when it comes to attracting potential buyers and can make or break the deal when it comes time to view. This is why it is important to give your property an appropriate name – one which reflects what it is really about.

The name of your house can conjure up visions of a twee village cottage or an architectural marvel, and while our postcode will give a would-be buyer an idea about the popularity or otherwise of an area, the name should tell everyone what sort of property it really is.

Choosing the Right Name

If you are naming your property for the first time, you might want to reflect on its heritage. In the country, for example, names will often tell the story of a property’s architectural integrity. Dower House, Rectory, Court, Farm and Manor House, for example, tell potential buyers about a property’s local standing as well as giving an indication as to its size, heritage and stature.

Whatever you choose, remember that first impressions do count, and there is lots of evidence backing up the fact that unappealing house names can put buyers off. This is why successful developers use names such as Number One, Pinnacle and Paramount rather than calling their newest ventures The Dump, The Tip or The Heap.

You don’t have to live in a premium property to have a name for your home, but in general, a new title should try to accurately reflect the building’s location and architecture and perhaps give a nod to its quirkiness or charm.

You may want to steer clear of the likes of Rose, Meadow or Orchard, which are the most popular property names in Britain, according to the Post Office, and you might also want to avoid names inspired by popular television shows, which are also seeing a rise in popularity. These include High Clere from Downton Abbey, Nampara from Poldark, and Bolton of Game of Thrones’ fame.

Seal the Deal

If you are renaming a property, you will need to contact your local council and request a name change. The authority will then consult with the Royal Mail, usually for a fee, and make sure that there is not a conflict with the new title.

If the new name gets approval, your local authority will issue a certificate outlining the renaming, as well as letting various organisations and departments know, including the Land Registry, Royal Mail, Council Tax, Planning and Electoral Registration.

It is always best to also pass on the new information to relevant agencies and organisations yourself, including Royal Mail and your mortgage and utility providers. It is also advised that you contact the emergency services and inform them of a change.

Are you looking to buy or sell property in Leicester? Call us today at our office at Hinckley Road 01162 544 555, or Queens Road 01162 544 543.