Sold Houses Near Me: Latest from Cribs Estates in London

Sales

Posted in Jan 05 , 2025

Anyone searching for the term "sold houses near me" in the London area will start getting results from top websites, but only a handful are reliable sources. As we enter 2025, one of the leading estate agencies in town is Cribs Estates, located in South West London. The experience of a decade-long service of assisting landlords and renters with property management and legal obligations and getting the best property rates in the market in areas like Wimbledon and Mitcham.

What you would be getting from this blog is how to ensure you get the right property, the price of the house, and other key considerations before making the big decision. But first, here’s what the London property market is all about:

The London Property Market

The property market in London is still consistent at the end of 2024, when we see the demand and price hikes. In the last 10 years, property prices have increased by about 40%. This is mainly because the COVID-19 pandemic has changed people's perspective towards living in suburban and rural areas for peace and privacy. In the last quarter of 2024, the property bounced back with more than a 1% price hike set by the Lower Bank of England.

After this change, more buyers and sellers have entered the market. However, the affordability factor remains the same due to the cost of living crisis, which has badly impacted the prices of properties across the UK. In areas such as Wimbledon, with its green spaces and convenience, and Mitcham, known for its affordability and ease of transportation, the demand for rents can vary.

Average Property Prices in London

London has the most vibrant property market, with many prime locations and neighbourhoods. Wimbledon is one of the best, with an average price of £700,000, which can surpass £1 million for large families.

On the other hand, Mitcham offers affordable living places with an average price of about £400,000, targeted towards people buying for the first time and looking for a buy-to-let investment. If you’re seeking more affordable locations, Deptford is the best in average house prices, starting from £352,000, making it among London's most affordable places.

Average Rental Market

If you are a landlord reading this blog, you must understand that the expectation you can get from rent depends on many factors. For example, Wimbledon is close to central London and offers easy transportation, which helps to attract more people to get a rented place here. The average rent here will cost you around £2,500 monthly for a two-bedroom area. The price of the same area in Mitcham will be approximately £1,500 every month, showcasing its easy affordability and demand.

What Landlords Should Know Before Buying?

Like every other important decision, purchasing property in London requires careful planning and awareness of the market changes if you are searching for sold houses near me. Here are some key considerations landlords should do before starting:

First, thoroughly check the rental demand in the area, looking for average property prices and the types of properties performing well there.
After the price research, you must consider Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), legal fees, property management expenses, and potential renovations.
The UK government's tax obligation for second properties priced up to £250,000 is 3%, increasing. Rental income is taxable for the landlord's total income slab. Another tax is the capital gain tax on the sale of buy-to-let properties, and the rate is between 18% and 20% based on net income.
You can secure a mortgage based on the rates that are easy for you. Generally, this rate of buy-to-let property is within 5-6%.
Landlords must ensure that the property meets the local council's laws and regulations and has an EPC rating of E or more. This means that gas, water, and other safety measures must be included in the provided agreement.

The Best Way to Purchase Property as a Landlord

The mentioned points that landlords need to consider are time-consuming and require lots of effort to go from one place to another to get the job done. This is why it’s always a good plan to have someone in your stand who can do it all for you. Here’s how Cribs Estates can handle all the mentioned points and simplify your life.

Cribs Estates provides tailored advice, ensuring landlords find properties that match their investment goals. Their local knowledge of Wimbledon, Mitcham, and surrounding areas is invaluable.
We are present in all major areas of the UK, including Mitcham, which offers strong rental returns, and Wimbledon, which appeals to long-term tenants seeking premium properties.
Cribs Estates has access to off-market listings. Our team is always present in the field, searching for the best deals on properties so that we can offer landlords exclusive opportunities.
Before the actual purchase, we thoroughly evaluate the property’s condition to avoid unexpected renovation costs.
We offer complete property management, rent collection, tenant agreement drafting, and handling of all local area council approvals.

What About Tenants?

Tenants searching for houses near me often prioritise factors that can make their transportation easy, such as schools, hospitals, and other amenities. Wimbledon’s charming high street and Mitcham’s community parks make both areas appealing. Cribs Estates helps tenants by partnering with them to offer the best long-term properties based on their budget and preferences.

What to Decide?

The search for "sold houses near me" is always about the importance of local expertise and market trends of the estate agents you choose. Whether you’re a landlord seeking to expand your portfolio or a tenant looking for your next home, Cribs Estates is your trusted partner from the UK's first area to the last.

Shared on social media

Comments

Enquiry form

Latest Blogs

Luxury Property Management Services

Cribs Estate specialises in managing luxury, prime, and high-value properties across London. Our experts have years of experience in the property sector, offering custom plans to ensure the highest standard of service. We understand every luxury home is unique and requires an approach reflecting its existing condition, value, and needs. So whether you own a penthouse, a prime London townhouse, or a luxury apartment, our job is to manage and protect your assets and their value. From household management to security and maintenance, our services offer complete peace of mind. Our Luxury Property Management ServicesWe provide full-service luxury property management across Central, South, and South-West London. Our services include:Household & Concierge ServicesWe offer day-to-day household coordination, staffing, housekeeping, keyholding, and personal assistance.Luxury Maintenance & RepairsWe offer fast response to issues involving plumbing, electrics, heating, AV systems, smart-home technology, and exterior upkeep.Vacant Property Care & SecurityOur experts conduct regular inspections, alarm checks, leak detection, meter readings, and security monitoring for overseas or absentee owners.Project & Refurbishment ManagementWe manage renovations, interior upgrades, furnishing projects, and communication with architects and contractors.Tenant & Guest ManagementWe perform thorough tenant screening, check-ins, inventory, and full management for luxury rented or short-let properties.Financial ManagementOur experts manage your bills, service payments, contractor invoices, detailed cost reporting, and budgeting for long-term property care.Compliance, Insurance & Safety ChecksWe ensure your property complies with legal standards, insurance requirements, safety tests, and maintenance schedules.Who We Manage Luxury Properties ForOur luxury property management services are ideal for:High-net-worth individuals with prime homes in London.Overseas owners and second-home owners who need trusted local representation.Landlords with luxury rental or serviced accommodation.Family offices and private clients requiring household and estate management.Developers of prime new-build apartments seeking ongoing care and management after handover.Benefits of Professional Luxury Property ManagementWe handle all tasks, emergencies, suppliers, and household needs.Your home stays spotless, maintained, and secure at all times.Preservation and enhancement of value through proactive upkeep and expert contractor management.No need to worry about repairs, deliveries, inspections, or resident needs.Our services are designed to protect your privacy and property.Transparent financial management, with clear reporting and budgeting.Why Choose Cribs Estates for Luxury Property ManagementWhen choosing a luxury property manager, you want reliability, discretion, and expertise. Cribs Estates delivers all of this, and more. We:Understand London’s prime neighbourhoods, luxury standards, and trusted contractors.Offer clear, honest pricing with no hidden fees.Manage a growing portfolio of high-value homes and premium rental properties.Provide complete management plans as per requirements.Prioritise security, confidentiality, and legal compliance at every step.Deliver consistent communication and responsive support, 24/7.Areas We CoverOur luxury property management services are available across Central and South London, including:Mayfair - Knightsbridge - Kensington - Chelsea - Belgravia - Battersea - Clapham - Wimbledon - Wandsworth - Richmond - Putney - South Kensington - FulhamLooking to Switch to Cribs Estates?If you're considering a new managing agent, switching to us is simple. We help by:Conducting an initial assessment of your property and needs.Arranging a smooth handover of access, documents, accounts, and contractor details.Creating a custom plan to improve and manage your luxury property.Introducing our team to owners, residents, or household staff.Hire Decade of ExperienceFor dependable and high-quality luxury property management in London, Cribs Estates is your trusted partner. We have the local knowledge, strong contractor relationships, compliance expertise, and hands-on experience to protect your investment and ensure your home is always well-maintained.

What Is Block Management? A Clear Guide

If you own a flat, live in an apartment building, or manage your block in the UK, you would have heard the term block management. What does this term mean, and who is responsible for it, and what are the services included in it? This guide answers all the questions to understand block management, whether you’re a leaseholder, freeholder, investor, or part of a Residents’ Management Company (RMC).What Is Block Management?Block management refers to managing daily events like maintenance and legal compliance of a residential building that contains multiple flats. It is different from standard property management, which focuses on individual tenancies, block management, and overlooks all aspects shared by residents. This includes:The structure of the buildingCommunal areasGardens and car parksFire safetyService charge budgetingHealth and safety complianceWho Is Responsible for Block Management?LandlordLandlord owns the building and is legally responsible for its safety, structure, and upkeep.Residents’ Management Company (RMC)Leaseholders collectively form an RMC to take control of the building’s management.Right to Manage (RTM) CompanyLeaseholders can legally take over management from the freeholder through the RTM process.Professional Block Management CompanyMost blocks appoint a managing agent because the role is complex and time-consuming. Duties include compliance with the Housing Act 2004, Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.What Does Block Management Include?Building and Communal MaintenanceRoof and exterior repairsCleaning communal areasMaintaining lifts and gatesGardening and grounds upkeepLighting, corridors, and bin areasEmergency and planned repairsSafety and Legal ComplianceFire risk assessmentsEmergency lightingSmoke and heat alarms in communal areasAsbestos checksElectrical safety complianceManaging fire doors and escape routesFinancial & Service Charge ManagementIssuing and collecting service chargesPreparing annual budgetsManaging reserve (sinking) fundsProducing year-end accountsEnsuring transparency with leaseholdersInsurance & Contractor ManagementBuildings insurancePublic liability insuranceManaging repairsOverseeing contractors and maintenance teamsBlock Management vs Property ManagementMany owners confuse the two, but there is a clear difference:Block ManagementFocuses on the building and communal areas:Fire safetyService charge accountingCleaning and maintenanceStructural repairsProperty ManagementFocuses on individual flats:Tenant findingRent collectionTenancy agreementsRepairs inside the flatHow Much Does Block Management Cost?Costs vary depending on:Size of the buildingNumber of flatsAge and condition of the blockLevel of services requiredWhether lifts, concierge, or extensive grounds are includedTypical ranges across the UK:£150–£500 per flat, per year for basic blocks£800–£2,000+ per flat, per year for high-service or modern developmentsWhy Good Block Management MattersProfessional block management helps increase the property value and resident satisfaction. It ensures:The building stays legally compliantService charges remain fair and transparentRepairs are handled promptlyCommunal areas remain clean and safeLong-term maintenance planning protects the property’s valueSigns of Poor Block ManagementIf you notice any of the following, it may be time for a change:Rising service charges without explanationPoor communication from managing agentsSlow repairs or ignored maintenance requestsDirty or neglected communal areasSafety hazards such as broken lights or damaged fire doorsNo clarity on how service charges are being spentCribs Estates Block Management ServicesCribs Estates specialises in helping freeholders, RMCs, RTM companies, and landlords by offering:Clear and transparent service charge budgetingRegular inspections and fast repair handlingFull fire safety and legal compliance management24/7 emergency supportDedicated property managersAccurate financial reporting and contractor oversightFAQs About Block ManagementQ1: Can Renters challenge unreasonable service charges?Yes. Renters can challenge charges through the First-tier Tribunal if they believe costs are unfair or poorly managed.Q2: Do all blocks of flats need a managing agent?Not legally, but most buildings appoint one because the responsibilities are complex and require professional oversight.Q3: How often should service charge accounts be provided?Managing agents should provide annual accounts and regular updates throughout the year for transparency.

Fire Risk Assessment HMO London

Managing a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) comes with more safety protocols than standard rentals. The reason is that multiple unrelated tenants are living under one roof, so the risk factor increases, meaning every HMO will have to face strict compliance guidelines. But how often should a fire risk assessment be done in an HMO? And what does London law specifically expect from landlords? This guide gives a clear answer! What Is an HMO Fire Risk Assessment?A fire risk assessment HMO London is a detailed inspection designed to:Identify fire hazardsEvaluate the level of risk to tenantsEnsure escape routes and protection systems are adequateConfirm the property meets the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005Ensure compliance with HMO licensing regulationsIt covers areas like fire alarms, emergency lighting, fire doors, electrical safety, extinguishers, and tenant behaviour patterns.How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Done in an HMO?The government requires that all HMOs must have their fire risk assessment reviewed at least once a year. Whilst annual reviews are mandatory, most fire safety experts, including many London councils, recommend a complete reassessment every 3 years, especially for larger HMOs. This ensures your property stays compliant with changing regulations.When Should an HMO Fire Risk Assessment Be Updated Immediately?You must re-do or update the assessment sooner if any of the following occurs:1. Changes to the HMO LayoutIf you renovate, convert a loft, add walls, or modify rooms, the fire escape strategy changes like:Adding new bedroomsChanging the kitchen layoutPartitioning the living roomInstalling new heating or electrical systems2. New Tenants or Changes in OccupancyDifferent groups come with different risks like:Students may cook more oftenFamilies may have more electrical appliancesProfessionals may work from homeVulnerable tenants may require special escape planningA tenant profile shift means the fire risk assessment HMO London must be updated.3. A Fire Incident or Safety Concern OccursEven minor incidents like smoke activation require a new review. This helps identify causes and strengthen safety measures.4. Fire Safety Equipment Is Upgraded or ReplacedIf you install:New alarm systemsUpdated fire doorsFresh extinguishersAdditional emergency lighting5. London Fire Brigade or Council Requests a ReviewHMO licensing officers and fire inspectors often issue recommendations. If they instruct you to update your risk assessment, you must do it immediately.Why Regular Fire Risk Assessments Are Needed?London has one of the highest densities of HMOs in the UK, and councils enforce strict fire safety rules. Staying up to date protects:1. Tenant LivesHMOs have more cooking, more electrical load, more movement and higher fire risks.2. Your Legal CompliancePenalties for non-compliance include:Unlimited finesCriminal prosecutionHMO licence refusalProperty closure notices3. Your Insurance ValidityMost insurers require proof of an updated fire risk assessment for HMOs.4. Your Long-Term Property ValueA safe property is easier to insure, license, maintain, and rent at stable rates.How Cribs Estates Helps HMO Landlords?Cribs Estates is a trusted London-based hmo property managementand compliance service specialising in HMOs. We offer professional, fully documented, and council-approved fire risk assessments that help landlords stay legally compliant.Why HMO Landlords Choose Cribs Estates:We understand the risks associated with multi-tenant properties.Our fire risk assessment reports meet expectations for all boroughs including: Lambeth, Merton, Wandsworth, Haringey, Croydon, Sutton, Kingston, and more.Ideal for landlords applying for or renewing HMO licences.We provide complete fire safety support like: smoke alarm installation, fire door upgrades, emergency lighting, safety documentation, and annual reviews.Whether a small 3-bed HMO or a large 10+ room property, Cribs Estates provides cost-effective solutions.Who Should Perform an HMO Fire Risk Assessment?Choosing an expert ensures:Zero legal gapsAccurate hazard identificationSmooth HMO licence approvalsCompliance with local authority auditsCribs Estates is a reliable option because we specialise in HMO compliance.

Short Term Lets London: 1, 2, & 6 Month Rental Options Explained

London is among the busiest and most traditional cities in the world, so the demand for short-term lets in London for 1, 2, and 6 months is always high. Whether someone is relocating for work, waiting for property sale completion, or spending some short time in the city, landlords have now started to explore short-term and medium-term agreements as the best way to maximise occupancy time. This guide helps landlords and renters to know everything about short-term lettings in London, along with pricing expectations. How Many Short-Term Lets Are in London?These stays usually fall under:Short-term licences (1–2 months) for temporary work placement or relocation. Medium-term lets (2–6 months) for professionals and students. Short AST agreements (usually for 6 months) for living without a yearly contract.Is It Legal to Offer Short-Term Lets in London? London has a 90-day rule for holiday lets, which applies to nightly or weekly-style Airbnb accommodations. Properties in Greater London cannot be let for more than 90 days in a calendar year as short-term stays unless the landlord has planning permission. But for 1-6 month short-term lets, the rules are totally different: They typically follow a licence or AST agreementThey are considered residential stays, not holiday letsThe 90-day restriction does not applyNormal landlord regulations still must be followedLandlords must ensure:Gas and electrical safety certificatesDeposit protection (for ASTs)Right-to-Rent checksCouncil tax arrangementsProperty licensing is required in that boroughWho Uses Short-Term Lets in London?Typical users include:Professionals on project-based contractsStudents and interns staying for a semesterRelocating families waiting for their permanent homePeople between moves, such as after selling a propertyInternational arrivals needing accommodation while settlingCorporate travellers on short assignmentsCost for 1, 2, and 6 Month Lets in LondonPrices usually vary by borough, property size, and whether the bills should be included. In general, the cost includes: 1 Month Rental LondonShort stays are usually furnished and may include bills. Expect higher monthly costs due to flexibility and convenience.2 Months Let LondonOften slightly cheaper per month than 1-month stays because landlords prefer multi-month occupancy.6 Month Rental LondonThis is the most common type of short-term let and usually follows a standard AST agreement. Costs become more similar to long-term rentals but with greater flexibility.Typical factors affecting price include:Zone 1 & 2 properties cost significantly moreFurnished and fully serviced flats cost more than basic rentalsBills included can raise the monthly priceDemand in boroughs like Canary Wharf, Wimbledon, Clapham, and Kensington tends to stay highTenants should always check:If bills are includedWhether the stay is extendableDeposit termsInventory conditionMove-in fees (if any)Benefits of Short-Term Lets for RentersNo long-term commitmentFurnished and ready to move inBills often includedFaster approval process than long-term tenanciesAbility to extend or shorten stay in many casesBenefits for Landlords Offering Short-Term LetsHigher rental yields, especially in furnished flatsLower risk, as many tenants pay upfront for short staysGreater control over tenancy cyclesFlexibility to use the property between staysAbility to adjust pricing based on demandLandlords must still comply with licensing and safety rules, and reliable estate agents like Cribs Estates can help get higher rents compared to standard long-term lets.Best Areas in London for Short-Term LetsCanary Wharf for financial district workersCentral London for tourists, corporate travellersStratford for tech and business hubWimbledon, Morden, and Clapham are popular with families and commutersHammersmith & Fulham has excellent transport linksKensington & Chelsea for premium short-term clientsHow Cribs Estates HelpsCribs Estates specialises in short-term lets across London, offering flexible rental options for 1, 2, and 6-month stays. We support both tenants and landlords by:Providing fully vetted short-term and medium-term rental propertiesManaging the legal requirements and paperworkMatching landlords with reliable tenants quicklyEnsuring smooth move-in and move-out processesOffering furnished and part-furnished optionsWhether you are searching for a comfortable short stay or looking to let your property on a flexible basis, Cribs Estates ensures a seamless, compliant, and stress-free experience.

Property search

Residential Lettings

Residential Sales

HMO

Commercial Sales Commercial Lettings

Price

Min price

Max price

Number of Bedrooms

Min bedrooms

Max bedrooms

Find properties