2020, what a year it was for everyone and everything, including the property market.
With no one expecting what has come to pass, Hearnes as an Estate Agent has evolved the dynamic of our business to move with a constantly changing threat.
PICTURED ABOVE: A stunning character home in Talbot Woods, contracts exchanged within four weeks of agreeing a sale. Asking price £1,595,000
PICTURED ABOVE: Sally Gravener, owner of market leading Hearnes Estate Agents in Bournemouth
From the start of 2019 the property market was set to be one of the main beneficiaries from the December General Election, and for it to push on and pull itself from uncertainty. However, uncertainty was the word of the year and whilst against all odds, though not without major upheaval, the property market has excelled on the south coast.
The Bournemouth property market has proved to be resilient and as early as May it was gathering pace and starting to make up for time lost over the initial lockdown. Hearnes had to adapt overnight to provide virtual solutions to meet our clients needs which led to valuations, viewings and instructions picking up rapidly over the Summer months and through to Christmas.
PICTURED ABOVE: Beautifully presented detached home situated on the ever poplar West Way, brought to market mid-January, accompanied 25 viewings generating 8 offers, sale agreed in excess of asking price
Despite the effects of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, Hearnes has remained the market leading agent for the area. With strict measures in place, over 578 valuations were carried in the Bournemouth area alone, resulting in 218 sales for the year, our closest rival recording 153 (statistics taken from rightmove.co.uk 1st January 2020 to 23rd December 2020).
The Bournemouth area experienced a significant increase in property prices in 2020, with some reporting a 7.7% increase over the year. The Stamp Duty holiday stoked the flames of already strong post-lockdown demand, and this, coupled with the desire of many people to relocate away from larger cities, has only driven prices higher. With the majority now comfortable in having the ability to work from home, the common requirement of a playroom has been replaced for the need of a home office. As the working from home trend only looks to continue, office rooms and outdoor space is coming at a premium.
PICTURED ABOVE: A spacious character home offering four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two reception rooms and a large kitchen/family room. Sold off market to buyers registered with Hearnes.
Though as a business we have strived to perform and achieve our own targets, the priority has been, and will remain, the safety of our clients and staff. With appropriate PPE and social distancing measures, we have continued to ensure our local community is offered not only our professional services, but support, and a team our clients can rely on; something our staff have taken great pride in during such an unprecedented time.
2020 also ignited a strong support for local businesses with Hearnes forging new relationships throughout the area. As a family run independent Estate Agency, Hearnes have come together and enjoyed being part of a diverse and strong local community of shops, restaurants and professional services, relationships we intend to carry on and promote into 2021.
With 2021 now underway and further lock-down measures in place we have experienced further challenges, however, the market is still gathering pace and demand to secure a new home within the local area seems to continue to strengthen.
PICTURED ABOVE: A refurbished detached home with southerly garden and swimming pool, just a short distance from the Golf Course in Queens Park. Sold off market to buyers registered with Hearnes.
If you would like to discuss your buying or selling requirements with our team, please contact us on 01202 317 317 or email bournemouth@hearnes.com
You can also follow Hearnes on Facebook and Instagram
BOURNEMOUTH OFFICE
01202 317317 | sally@hearnes.com
RINGWOODOFFICE
01425 489955 | ringwood@hearnes.com
Also offices in Ferndown, Poole and Wimborne.
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