This Month

Why are residents leaving? .

26 May 2021.

What are the 3 main reasons why residents are giving notice?

Happy Anniversary to the Super Heroes at West Hampstead Community Food Hub!.

31 Mar 2021.

It's been a year since they opened their doors, so how many families rely on them today?

One agent is tackling a nation-wide problem.

18 Feb 2021.

Estate agent and consultant Stephen Brown wants to help families who don't have enough computers for their children to keep up with their studies. He's raising funds and using agents across the UK to reach them!

#BHF100k - pushing our limits for the British Heart Foundation.

12 Feb 2021.

Spencer took on the #BHF100k challenge - 100 km in 1 month for the British Heart Foundation. Did he make it?

Stamp Duty: will you have to pay it?.

12 Jan 2021.

Our advice to today's buyers hoping to qualify for the Stamp Duty Holiday

A month's rent - on us! .

17 Dec 2020.

Last month's Paramount Perks monthly prize draw winner just won a month's rent on us! We got him on a Zoom call to break the news - you can watch the video here!

We put the call out, and our neighbours answered .

14 Dec 2020.

With their deadline fast approaching, the West Hampstead Community Food Hub didn't know whether they'd have enough for the guests that rely on them. And then our neighbours stepped in!

2020 Holiday Hours.

10 Dec 2020.

These are our opening hours over Christmas and New Year!

What does the next lockdown mean for buying, selling, renting, and moving home?.

02 Nov 2020.

Whether you're searching for your next property, selling, or are a current Paramount resident, how will this next lockdown affect you?

500 items for our local Food Hub.

27 Oct 2020.

For Agents Giving Day this year we donated 500 items to the Food Hub at our local Sidings Community Center!

Can't stop us! .

19 Oct 2020.

We couldn't believe the outpouring of support. Thank you to everyone who was there for us in spirit as we took on the cold, rain, and mud for a good cause. We hope our photos don't disappoint!

The Food Hub .

06 Oct 2020.

Created to answer a call for help during lockdown, the Food Hub based out of Sidings Community Centre is now providing vital food support to neighbours in our community. Here's how you can join us in supporting a truly worthwhile cause.

Getting muddy to (safely) support charity during Covid.

28 Sep 2020.

This year's Love Mud obstacle race for charity is still on! With new safety measures in place for 4th October, we'll be out there climbing through the mud for a good cause.

Are you protected? Many Landlords still aren't. .

14 Sep 2020.

We expect that the ending of furlough will have a massive impact on many peoples lives. With the sudden tripling of notice periods, implications for landlords are serious. Are you protected?

Current market trends: Is the waiting game over? .

15 Jun 2020.

Read about our perspective on today's property market!

Your move is safe with us.

27 May 2020.

We've made changes so that you can be confident in your next move. We sat down with two new tenants to get some honest feedback about their move with Paramount during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Looking forward .

14 May 2020.

We know that now is the time to show you what we're made of .

30 Mar 2020.

This is what we're doing to help our tenants, landlords, and community get through the COVID-19 outbreak. We also hope our furry friend Winston can spread a few smiles in these stressful times.

What we’re doing to help during this coronavirus outbreak, and how you can help too.

18 Mar 2020.

Here are a few ways in which we are trying to help those quarantined in our community get the necessities they need, and what you can do to help.

Changes to EICR legislation: what you need to know.

31 Jan 2020.

In a long-awaited ruling, it will now be a Landlord's legal responsibility to ensure that an EICR is provided on all properties rented from June 2020. This will extend to all tenancies beginning in 2021.Are you ready for the changes?

Upcoming changes to EPC legislation: what you need to know .

31 Jan 2020.

More legislation changes are coming this April that will extend current EPC regulations to cover all existing residential tenancies. Are you ready?

A spring in the market! .

24 Jan 2020.

The bubble has burst, making right now the best time in the market for buyers and sellers.

Thank you to all of our little elves-in-training! .

17 Dec 2019.

Our family fun Christmas workshop was a success thanks to the wonderful families in our community! The little elves-in-training had a blast and created some seriously festive works of art!

We're collecting! Drop off your gift donations today for the children spending Christmas at Brent foodbank.

05 Dec 2019.

Last year, 500+ children and families attended Brent foodbank's Christmas dinner. For many, this was their entire Christmas. We'll be collecting gift donations up until 21st December to donate to the foodbank to help them accommodate this year's higher demand and make Christmas as special as possible for as many families as we can!

Join us for some Christmas fun at 150 ELF End Lane! .

04 Dec 2019.

Join us on Friday 13th or Saturday 14th for cookie decorating, face-painting, Christmas crafts, and writing our letters to Santa! Free and open to all families in our community!

Clearing out your winter wardrobe for a good cause.

03 Dec 2019.

Last year, Wrap Up London collected a total of 36,000 coats across the UK! We have our fingers crossed that this year the total is even higher; not only because more people will be kept warm during what is being forecasted to be a particularly cold winter, but because of the opportunities that are created when someone reaches out for help. 

Spencer and Dexter spend a November night outside to support aid to homelessness .

22 Nov 2019.

Over 100 Propertymark agents and supporters took part in a charity sleep out to raise money to support homeless young people in the UK last night. Spencer and Dexter from our lettings team bundled up to take part in this really important cause.

What it takes to win the Best Estate Agent Guide's Outstanding Contribution Award.

24 Oct 2019.

Do you choose your agency based on their values? Our Lettings Director has been chosen amongst an inspiring group of people to win the Outstanding Contribution Award from the Best Estate Agent Guide!

It's official - Paramount is in the Top 3% of all Estate & Letting Agents in London!.

05 Oct 2019.

For the 3rd year running Paramount Properties are in the TOP 3% of Estate and Letting Agents in the Country! Find out more about what this means here...

The donation that brought us all together: a full kitchen refurbishment at The Winch .

16 Aug 2019.

Paramount recently donated an entire kitchen refurbishment to The Winch - a child and youth charity based in Camden that helps children to succeed, regardless of their circumstances. We turned a dark and cluttered basement room into a bright, comfortable communal space for their visitors and staff. What a transformation!

From London to Mongolia: Paramount Sponsor a Big Adventure! .

24 Jul 2019.

Paramount Properties are delighted to support our good friend Hew Stevenson, a London based landscaper for www.shootsandleaves.co.uk. This year Hew is taking on the treacherous Mongol Rally for Cancer Research UK: 11,000 Miles, 41 Days, 12 Countries, 3 Mountain Ranges, 2 Deserts, and 1 Car!

Our week with a work experience student .

24 Jul 2019.

We've recently unleashed work experience student Analiese on our team to show her how we do what we do - find out how it went!

Paramount Pantry raising money for Huntington's Disease Association.

23 Jul 2019.

Paramount Pantry is raising money again,  This time our Lettings Director is taking on a 26-mile kayak challenge along the River Wye over 2 days. Read his story...

What do you expect from your Sales and Letting Agent?.

11 Jul 2019.

What do you expect from your sales and letting agent? A one-size-fits-all service where the highlights are glossy brochures and online marketing for your property? We take a different approach. We begin with you. With everything you need all under one roof, we are able to offer a premium, flexible service to help you achieve your property goals sooner. Contact us now to find out what we can do for you and your portfolio!

The Winch is getting a new kitchen! .

02 Jul 2019.

The Winch is a child and youth charity with a mission “to help each child succeed, regardless of their circumstances, by giving them the opportunities and support they need.” They offer a huge list of programs catering to families, children, and young adults up to the age of 25; from After School Clubs and Holiday Play Schemes to a business start-up programme for young adults (called ‘The Company’).

Our fundraising for Brent Foodbank for Agents Giving Day 2019.

25 Jun 2019.

Between the 17th to the 21st of June, we ran a food drive collection of non-perishables in our office for our local Brent foodbank (part of the Trussel Trust, which works to end hunger and poverty in the UK).  During the week we received donations from so many local people, from all of our team and their families, from clients and businesses in the NW6 area.  

Paramount Pantry supporting Brent Foodbank.

09 Jun 2019.

This month, between the 17th to the 21st, we will be running a food drive out of our office for our local Brent foodbank. With a 400% increase in visitors using their services this year, we hope that you will help us to help Brent foodbank support those in our community struggling to put food on their table. Every donation makes a difference!

Summer is coming! So what does that mean for our landlords?.

07 Jun 2019.

As I sit here writing, I look out the window and see bright sunshine, blue skies and 20-degree forecasts for the rest of the week. This can only mean one thing – summer is coming!

8 Useful tips to freshen up your living space this spring.

15 May 2019.

Paramount Tenant Survey 2019.

03 May 2019.

Read the results of our tenant survey here!

How does an in-house Maintenance team make a world of difference to tenants and landlords?.

02 May 2019.

We are extremely proud to host our own Paramount Maintenance Team who are on call 24/7 to cover plumbing, gas, general maintenance, cleaning & carpentry across the North West London area. Find out why that is so important to landlords and tenants.

Lucy's Easter Holiday Planning .

08 Apr 2019.

Click here to read our Lucy's advice on how to maximise the fun with your kids this Easter!

Should I be looking to change to a cheaper agent?.

04 Apr 2019.

Being a landlord feels a little unfair at the moment doesn’t it? Honestly – we feel your pain. With the Tenant Fee Ban coming into effect shortly, find out how choosing an ARLA-qualified agent can protect you and your property.

Paramount Maintenance celebrates 10 years trading! .

04 Apr 2019.

To celebrate 10 years of repairs and refurbishments in the local area, we are offering our landlords 10% off of their next Paramount Maintenance job over £100!

The perks of buying in and trading up this spring.

01 Apr 2019.

Find out why this spring is the perfect time to buy into or trade up the property ladder!

From Toronto to London .

19 Mar 2019.

Danielle has just joined us from Canada. Read about her transition to the British way of life here...

Congratulations to our newest Member of ARLA!.

12 Mar 2019.

The wonderful world of property management.

08 Mar 2019.

Katie has been helping out in the property management team whilst a new candidate was secured and trained, so read all about her experience here.

10 things about my 10 years working at Paramount.

07 Feb 2019.

Lucy Shapiro has worked at Paramount Properties for an entire decade and she has seen lots of changes in that time. Here she talks through 10 things she has learnt in her 10 years.

Paramount celebrate their 30th Birthday.

23 Jan 2019.

Everything was different back in the 1980s when Paramount Properties opened their doors for the first time. Everything except London property being a very sound asset. We have an amazing 30th Birthday celebration offer for all of our clients looking to sell in the NW London area. Not to be missed (unlike the 1980s decor).

New Years Resolutions for the Savvy Landlord.

21 Jan 2019.

January is a time for resolutions and here are some of our top tips for savvy landlords to consider.

Raising Money for Charities Close to our Hearts.

20 Dec 2018.

We were humbled to receive the "Outstanding Contribution to Charity Award" at the latest Agents Giving Ball, a magnificent way to end the year and a huge plaudit for the team both past and present.

Top Things to do in London this Winter.

17 Dec 2018.

Tenant Fee Ban - what does it mean for me?.

11 Dec 2018.

A quick overview of the Tenant Fee Ban as is it looms ever closer!

Meet the Property Management Team - Hollie Measures.

11 Dec 2018.

Meet the Property Management Team - Hannah Hussain.

11 Dec 2018.

Meet the Property Management Team - Amber Murray.

11 Dec 2018.

Meet the Property Management Team - Steve Wilson.

11 Dec 2018.

Sell for the highest price in the quickest time.

21 Nov 2018.

This is the most common question our vendors ask us "how can I sell for the highest price in the quickest time?" but it really is imperative to get the price just right in order to sell in the optimum time.

Best Estate Agency Guide.

13 Nov 2018.

9 Second Property Sale.

06 Nov 2018.

A property was sold somewhere across England and Wales every 9 seconds of working hours between January and July of this year. How impressive is that? Now whoever said that the housing market was quiet?

Don't Let You Property Linger on the Market.

29 Oct 2018.

It is incredibly important to minimise the time that a property remains on the sales market so that it does not become stale and lose its appeal. That is why Paramount work on keeping the time between a property first being listed and being sold, as short as possible. The average time it takes us is 85 days - just under 3 months - when the average for most of our local agents is nearer 5 months. Find out how we do this...

Tenants rent payments now contributing to credit scores.

29 Oct 2018.

There is now another way to boost your credit rating if you are currently renting. Records of rental payments are now being included in credit reports, meaning tenants could find it easier to get a mortgage.

October Rental Market in NW6.

29 Oct 2018.

What happens when you have an amazing rental month at a time when stock levels are low? Well, we have found out during October... have a read!

Tenant Fee Ban Is Coming.

08 Oct 2018.

Looking at the upcoming tenant fee ban, the latest information and what we can expect to come.

Changes to Section 21 Notices from 1st October 2018.

01 Oct 2018.

Lettings law is always changing and Landlords are subject to over 145 pieces of legislation covering the private rental sector. It is essential to remain up-to-date with legislative changes to avoid falling foul of the law and ending up with large fines, or imprisonment. This is why most professional landlords instruct the services of a regulated and qualified letting agent, such as Paramount Properties. On 1st October 2018, the law changed for service of notice to tenants in order to regain possession of a property under Assured Shorthold Tenancies.

Dyne Road, Brondesbury, London NW6.

26 Sep 2018.

Solent Road, West Hampstead, London, NW6.

26 Sep 2018.

Ravenshaw Street, West Hampstead, London, NW6.

20 Sep 2018.

Help to Buy, yes or no?.

16 Sep 2018.

Our sales negotiator Tony Mixides has been saving for his first home and ponders whether he should go for a new build property and use the Government Help to Buy scheme, or keep saving and buy a second hand residential property, once he has saved enough deposit.

How to maintain your rental property.

11 Sep 2018.

Maintaining a good standard of rental property is a lot harder than you would think, which is why most professional landlords use the service of an accredited agency with a team of property managers, such as Paramount Properties, in order to keep the investment sound. We give you our top tips for managing a rental property successfully.

It's Back to School Time.

03 Sep 2018.

This week the School Summer Holidays end and the Autumn term begins. This is always a time of mixed blessings, so we have written this article to help you with the transition.

A Paramount Properties Bathroom Refurbishment Project .

02 Sep 2018.

Joe Stoll, one of our Property Managers, discusses how going over and above in order to protect a landlords investment is all part of his very rewarding job.

Renting Guide for Tenants.

29 Aug 2018.

Do I need an HMO?.

24 Aug 2018.

Changing EPC Regulations.

21 Aug 2018.

Move in with Paramount!.

21 Aug 2018.

We're different because you're different.

21 Aug 2018.

Family Summer Activities in North West London.

20 Aug 2018.

As a school mum working in West Hampstead, our team member Lucy is always on the lookout for places to visit with the children over the Summer Holidays.

West Hampstead Area Guide.

17 Aug 2018.

Paramount Collective.

17 Aug 2018.

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Refurb Results in West Hampstead.

06 Aug 2018.

Property refurbishment is one of our specialities here at Paramount Properties and recently we have been working on one of the fabulous West Hampstead Mansion Blocks, Yale Court and wanted to show you the results of a complete refurbishment and how delighted the owner of the property was with the end results. 

The Top 4 Reasons to Have Your Property Managed.

03 Aug 2018.

Our Take on the Rise in Interest Rates.

02 Aug 2018.

We give our view on the recent change to interest rates, and what this could mean for the property market.

A Summer as a Lettings Negotiator.

04 Jul 2018.

Dani has joined us from Leeds University for the summer to work as a letting negotiator, find out how Dani got on...

A Day on the Tools.

22 Jun 2018.

Joe one of our property managers spent some time with Vinni from our in-house maintenance team to get a better insight, read his thoughts.

Agents Giving Donate A Food Parcel Day.

01 Jun 2018.

Can you help the local community by donating food to our office in a collection for Brent Food Bank? Any donation big or small makes a difference!

Unfurnished VS Part Furnished.

16 May 2018.

Looking for a rental property, but you're not sure whether to go for un-furnished or furnished? Chloe details which could suit you best.

What to do in North West London this Summer.

11 May 2018.

There's a whole host of things going on in North West London this month, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Spencer's ARLA Conference Review (2018).

23 Apr 2018.

Spencer reflects on the ARLA Conference 2018. A day filled with industry insight that we're passing on to you!

Spring has Finally Sprung .

16 Apr 2018.

Spring is finally upon us and the warmer weather is on its way, London is always extra beautiful in the sunshine!

Calling All Classical Music Lovers.

29 Mar 2018.

The Sherriff Centre is a unique charity based community centre in the heart of West Hampstead with some great concerts coming up.

Mothers Day in West Hampstead.

08 Mar 2018.

This Sunday is Mothers Day, if you are looking for ideas of what do or buy here in West Hampstead, here is your guide to a great Mothers Day in West Hampstead.

Thinking of moving to Camden?.

01 Mar 2018.

Katie from our new homes team in lettings, lets you in on some of the things that make renting in Camden so appealing!

But You are Only a Single Office?.

23 Feb 2018.

Reagan, our lettings operations director explains why it is a great a thing to retain a single office presence in West Hampstead!

Joe Returns to Paramount .

15 Feb 2018.

Joe worked Saturdays in West Hampstead at Paramount when he was 17, he has now returned as a property manager for our lettings team.

Landlords Near or Far.

09 Feb 2018.

Whether you are near or far from your property we make sure, they are maintained, inspected and most importantly let!

A Good Start to 2018 .

24 Jan 2018.

It has been a good start to 2018 for Paramount as the stats show we agreed the most sales in 2017

Looking Forward to The Year Ahead.

16 Jan 2018.

As the curtain closes on a busy and at times challenging 2017, we look forward to the year ahead with renewed vigour and a collective determination to improve all that we do.

A Trip Down Memory Lane.

02 Jan 2018.

Take a trip down memory Lane with Jason from our New Homes Team, he reflects on the difference technology has made to the industry.

The Classic 4-4-2.

13 Dec 2017.

What is the connection between football and Lettings? You can find out in this blog by our Lettings Negotiator Adam

Learning and Completing the ARLA Exams.

05 Dec 2017.

Chloe our Lettings Negotiator has undertaken the challenge of learning and completing the ARLA, she talks through what the ARLA consists of, and why landlords might want to choose an ARLA register agent.

10 Ways to Speed up Your Check Out.

28 Nov 2017.

At the end of a smooth, problem free tenancy the deposit return can end up being a time consuming process for both tenants and landlords. The property needs to be returned in the same standard it was when you started the tenancy – taking into account fair wear and tear. The House of Lords defined wear and tear as “reasonable use of the premises by the tenant and the ordinary operation of natural forces”. This essentially means it will not consider anything which happens just through day to day use of the property. We hold our deposits in the TDS (Tenancy deposit Scheme) who have a full guide on how to classify wear and tear.

Budget 2017 Cuts Stamp Duty for First Time Buyers.

22 Nov 2017.

Chancellor Phillip Hammond has abolished stamp duty with immediate effect for first time buyers purchasing a home up to £300,000. A saving of £5,000 which is not to be sniffed at.

Top 5 Christmas events that will definitely get you feeling festive!.

14 Nov 2017.

New front desk support Freddie is just getting used to working in London, and has been looking at the best places to go this Christmas!

Clear out your cupboard and do a good deed.

07 Nov 2017.

Help keep vulnerable people warm this winter by donating a coat this November!

A Quick Step Into Charity.

03 Nov 2017.

The time has almost come for Reagan and I to don our sparkly outfits and dancing shoes in front of 400 of our peers all in the aid of charity (and the amusement of our co-workers).

Interest Rate Increase .

03 Nov 2017.

The Bank of England has raised the base rate from 0.25% to 0.5%. The Bank’s monetary policy committee was split seven to two. Mortgage lenders are now expected to follow suit with small increases to their lending rates.

Paramount Bake Off: The Winners Story.

16 Oct 2017.

Hear from Tony Mixides, the winner of our charity bake-off on his journey to being crowned bake-off champion

A Fantastic Time to Buy.

05 Oct 2017.

Should I buy or rent? A question that many would be property purchasers and their families are probably asking themselves at the moment.

Agents Giving Fundraising Championship.

03 Oct 2017.

As well as Reagan and Steve dancing at Agents Giving, we have been shortlisted for the Agents Giving Fundraising championship Award. We are honoured to be listed alongside these other great companies doing great work for so many charities.

Nearly 20 Years in West Hampstead.

12 Sep 2017.

Spencer Lawrence reflects on 20 years in West Hampstead, with change occurring in both the area and the professional landscape.

Creating a touch of opulence in your home on a budget.

30 Aug 2017.

Oliver Gorman gives his tips on how to add some attractive decoration to your home on a budget.

Why you should choose an independent agent!.

22 Aug 2017.

Newest recruit, property manager Richard O’Brien gets to grips with joining Paramount from a larger corporate agency!

The Neymar Effect.

10 Aug 2017.

The very best quality comes at a price, but with many unwilling to compromise on quality, West Hampstead has become THE destination for young Londoners who want to get the best of both.

Don't judge a candidate by their CV.

02 Aug 2017.

Unlike most agencies, at Paramount we have a high number of employees who have come to us from an employment background not based in property. We find the wide range of transferable skills our team have from other industries often bring varied skill sets and points of view to the table. As we recruit for new positions across our departments, Hollie Measures talks you through why a background in catering made her the perfect choice for our front desk and why you shouldn’t judge a candidate just based on their CV!

Family Fun in West Hampstead.

26 Jul 2017.

As a mother with two young children, I am always looking for child friendly places and having worked in West Hampstead for the past 8 and a half years, I have come across some lovely places that I would recommend families to visit.

BUYERS JOY!.

19 Jul 2017.

After being an agent for many years, the joy of giving a buyer a set of keys to their newly acquired home never diminishes.

7 Drinks, 7 Pubs, 7 Days.

12 Jul 2017.

I’ve worked at Paramount for nearly two and half years now and can honestly say that West Hampstead is one of my favourite places with some lovely little spots to meet up.

Our view on the BBC's 'The Week the Landlords Moved In' .

07 Jul 2017.

Property rental reality TV, who would have thought it? Paramounts Compliance Manager, Jason Pevovar reviews the next best thing to Love Island...

Top Five Things to do in West Hampstead.

20 Jun 2017.

Hope Alves, our Property Management Assistant, runs us through her top five things to do in West Hampstead.

Brent Food Bank.

19 Jun 2017.

We are focusing the spotlight on Brent Food Bank, our charity partner.

First week as a Lettings Negotiator.

13 Jun 2017.

Adam Wright gives you the top 10 things he has learnt in his first week as a Lettings Negotiator here at Paramount.

How can I get my deposit back?.

07 Jun 2017.

At Paramount - we now carry out pre-check out inspections in order start preparing tenants for this process and advise them on how to have the best chance to recoup all of their funds.

First Time Buyer tips for getting on the London property ladder.

30 May 2017.

It's only human nature to desire the newest and nicest property that you see, but you will still have to put you best foot forward to secure that dream home and in this blog I will be showing how you can stand out from the crowd.

Another Bank Holiday - but why? .

25 May 2017.

As another bank holiday approaches, the question arises as to why do employees still get the traditional paid-for holidays each year; be they federal holidays in the states or bank holidays here in the UK?

Making the most of any outdoor space.

18 May 2017.

With next week marking the start of The Chelsea Flower Show, in our latest blog we take a look at how to make the most of any limited space when it comes to working some green-fingered magic.

Moving to Whitechapel.

14 May 2017.

Back in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the area of Whitechapel was the centre of the Jewish community and has since become known for the Jack the Ripper murders in the late 1880s. Nowadays, the area is famed for its curries and pop-up bars and restaurants.

London's housing market: an inside view.

07 May 2017.

What's the market like at the moment? This is a question I get asked on 90% of the viewings I attend by interested applicants looking for an insight on whether or not now is a good time to buy a property.

Brexit's effect on EU National applicants within the lettings market.

24 Apr 2017.

Could Labour's proclamations of scrapping the Tories' Brexit white paper offer stability for EU nationals hoping to rent in London?

Top tips for securing your home.

18 Apr 2017.

With summer creeping up, and holidays getting booked, it might be a prudent time to think about how secure your home is when it's empty

West Hampstead Square's effect on the local area .

09 Apr 2017.

West Hampstead Square is taking shape!

Easter Opening Hours.

09 Apr 2017.

Easter Opening Hours at Paramount

ARLA Propertymark Conference 2017.

02 Apr 2017.

Last week, I headed down to the annual, newly re-branded 'Arla Propertymark' conference in London's Excel centre. Here are a few of the highlights...

Red Nose Day 2017.

26 Mar 2017.

Last week, our West Hampstead office was filled with the delicious smells of baking as we cooked up daily treats for Red Nose Day 2017.

Six easy tips to spruce up your home for spring.

15 Mar 2017.

Whether you're a tenant or a landlord, Spring is the perfect time to get your home in order and get to work on all those odd-jobs you might have been putting off during the winter months.

Brent Food Bank: Supplies Needed!.

08 Mar 2017.

This week we popped down to Brent Food Bank who do an amazing job helping out the local community not only in terms of food but also clothing and support for those in need.

Fixflow & Paramount: Working together to improve efficiency.

27 Feb 2017.

Since 2014, Paramount has invested in the unique property repair service, Fixflow to ensure every single landlord's property is protected around the clock

An insight into the life of a Paramount Negotiator.

23 Feb 2017.

Exactly one month ago to the day, I sat at this desk for the first time as the newest member of Paramount's Lettings department. Despite over 8 years of experience in the industry and various other jobs, you never lose those first-day nerves, eager to impress and quickly rid yourself of the 'new boy' nickname.

The Big London Night Walk.

21 Feb 2017.

On Friday 3 March, we took part in The Big Issue's London Night Walk in order to raise money for the homeless vendors and help them on their journey out of homelessness.

Lettings Activities in Our Key Areas: Winter Report.

20 Feb 2017.

The winter months saw the usual drop off in activity in the local lettings market. Overall the demand last year was as high as ever, assisted by the unusually higher stock levels not encountered in previous years.

Moving to... Little Venice.

15 Feb 2017.

Whether it was named during the time Robert Browning lived in the area between 1862 to 1887, or whether it was named earlier by Lord Byron; Little Venice is a beautiful part of London surrounding three waterways; The Grand Union canal, Regent's canal and the Paddington Basin.

Property Management: How Can I Prevent Condensation?.

10 Feb 2017.

There is more to Paramount Properties than just sales and lettings. Did you know that we have our own management department? They ensure our tenants are happy in their property and that everything is functioning as it should.

Perking up Paramount.

07 Feb 2017.

This week, Mayuri Depala delves into the benefits of Paramount's staff perk-scheme, Perkbox... I think an ideal chilled night out with a friend or with family is when you can indulge in some warm sweet popcorn. Not

Blog Moving House with Children and Toys.

26 Jan 2017.

Moving home can be quite unsettling for young children. Making their move go smoothly can have a great impact on how they settle into their new home. Children’s toys provide an element of comfort and company whilst the move gathers pace, but moving their toys can

Ready for a New Sales Challenge?.

24 Jan 2017.

Introducing Paramount Preferences.

19 Jan 2017.

At Paramount we offer three different tiers of landlord service; each of which has been carefully designed to suit your requirements. Whichever package you choose, our experienced Lettings and Property Management team will be on hand to

Moving to... Kilburn.

18 Jan 2017.

Kilburn is an area of north-west London, England, which is divided between three London Boroughs and two postcodes: most of Kilburn is in NW6 Brent or Camden, but a small section is inside Westminster.

Lessons We Learnt in 2016.

16 Jan 2017.

Sitting in traffic in Elephant and Castle with two tepid Starbucks may not be the opportune time to write a blog, but for us, the start to this year has been so busy it's hard to find the time. We're on our way to visit two new blocks in South London which we will be taking

Moving House with Pets: The Dos and Don'ts.

12 Jan 2017.

So you're moving? Fantastic :) However, moving is incredibly stressful and is even more so when you have pets to relocate too. Our furry friends deserve to be well looked after during the move as the volume of things that are going on around them can be difficult for them to understand and will inevitably make them nervous.

Moving to...SE13.

10 Jan 2017.

Just under 6 miles from central London lies the London Borough of Lewisham, which become part of London as late as 1965. The main centre was hit by a V-1 flying bomb in 1944 flooring most of the buildings which were rebuilt in the ‘50s. The main shopping centre now consists of Lewisham Shopping Centre and a daily market at the north end of the High Street.

Moving to... Camden.

04 Jan 2017.

Then known as a dangerous route due to the frequency of highwaymen, Camden High Street (as it's now known), began to be developed in the late 1700s by Earl Camden (Charles Pratt) and other wealthy landowners. When the Grand Union canal arrived in 1820, (and Euston railway station in 1837), the area became rapidly transformed, especially around the locks with goods being loaded and unloaded by horse and cart for distribution into London.

Moving to... Islington.

28 Dec 2016.

Originally named Gislandune by the Saxons, "Gisla's hill" from the Old English personal name Gisla and dun ("hill", "down"), the name later mutated to Isledon, which remained in use well into the 17th century when the modern form arose. In medieval times, Islington was one of many small districts, along with Bernersbury, Neweton Berewe or Hey-bury and Canonesbury (Barnsbury, Highbury and Canonbury's names first recorded in the 13th and 14th centuries).

Happy Christmas! House-hunting Over the Holidays...?.

20 Dec 2016.

Our office opening hours over the holidays are as follows: Friday 23rd – Tuesday 27th December: Closed Wednesday 28th December: 10am – 4pm Thursday 29th December: 10am – 4pm

Death by Email - Not Anymore.

07 Dec 2016.

High volumes of unnecessary internal emails received were cited as an issue for many at a recent team meeting.

Best Single Office, London Winners!.

06 Dec 2016.

Another year, another award - this time we were thrilled to collect the silver award for Best Single Office, London at the Estate Agency of the Year Awards.

Getting the Best Out of Your Home Broadband.

29 Nov 2016.

As if you didn't have enough to think about when moving home, there's now another item to add to the extensive list: checking broadband at your new home.

We Slept Out and Raised Over £3,600 for Centrepoint!.

29 Nov 2016.

Congratulations to our team of nine who braved the elements last week for Centrepoint's Sleep Out and raised a whopping £3,684 :)

Make a Move to Penge.

15 Nov 2016.

Once known as Penceat, meaning 'edge of wood', Penge lies on the borders of Bromley, Lewisham and Croydon and a mere 7 miles south-east of Charing Cross. With great transport links (mainline train to Victoria in 17 mins and Brixton in 8 mins, Overground to Shoreditch in 28 mins or the 176 bus to Tottenham Court Road), it's easy to see why this once forgotten suburb is now attracting a whole host of house hunters.

We're Swapping Our Beds For Sleeping Bags This November.

10 Nov 2016.

80,000 young people experience homelessness every year, with this figure set to rise. Whilst we can't begin to imagine the difficulties and dangers that people in this situation face, especially at this time of year; we wanted to raise awareness and put ourselves in that position - if only for a very brief moment.

Give Your Old Coat a New Life This Winter.

08 Nov 2016.

The largest charity coat drive is back this year, from the 7-18 November, and Paramount is pleased to be acting as a drop off point for any unwanted or old coats.

Love Chocolate? Thinking About Letting Your Property? Read On!.

01 Nov 2016.

In the run-up to Christmas, we'll be giving out these mouth-watering chocolates from local chocolatiers, Cocoa Bijoux to anyone who invites a member of our Lettings team round to value their property!

Pop into Paramount and Get £500 off Your Stamp Duty!.

27 Oct 2016.

As we all know, buying your first home is a big step and can be fraught with difficulties if you're not armed with the right knowledge.

Good Lord! We've Hit 50 deals.

23 Oct 2016.

Our Lettings department has been using the Goodlord app for the past few weeks, and last week hit our '50 deal milestone'.

So What Have We Learnt From Summer 16?.

17 Oct 2016.

The summer months have seen the usual frenetic activity in the local lettings market. The demand this year was as buoyant as ever assisted by the unusually higher stock levels not encountered in previous summer months.

SoS! (Save our Sofa).

11 Oct 2016.

It is very rare that, as a negotiator, I find myself at 9pm on a Friday night running down isle 69 in Ikea seeking out a LUGNVIK or defending myself from a falling JOKKMOKK.

Macmillan Coffee Morning.

03 Oct 2016.

Last week saw the return of Macmillan's Coffee Morning event, an annual fundraising event where local businesses and individuals are encouraged to hold an event to raise money for Macmillan Cancer support.

Plumbers in the Spotlight.

20 Sep 2016.

To celebrate Gas Safety Week, we put our plumber Dipak Patel on the spot and asked him a few quick' get to know you' questions.

Check Your Home is Safe this Gas Safety Week.

18 Sep 2016.

Launched in 2011 and coordinated by Gas Safe Register, Gas Safety Week provides a platform for the gas industry and linked organisations to promote awareness about Gas Safety for homeowners, landlords and tenants alike.

7 of the Best Beer Gardens in North London.

07 Sep 2016.

Be quick - summer's nearly over, so grab your jacket and make the most of the last few warm evenings in these fantastic north London beer gardens and rooftops.

Affordable Hampstead?.

29 Aug 2016.

When you think of Hampstead, you may be forgiven for thinking 'I could never afford to live there', with its beautiful heath, Kenwood House and numerous famous residents (Sting, Jonathan Ross, George Michael, Emma Thompson etc).

6 Tips for a Stress-Free Move.

16 Aug 2016.

Read our quick tips on how to prepare for moving day so it goes without a hitch. Prepare early: As is often the case when undertaking a big project, early preparation and organisation can save you a lot of turmoil and stress down the line. Nowadays, the time between exchanging and completing when buying a property, can be minimal, so it's best to get your 'to-do' list done as soon as possible.

My First Week at Paramount.

01 Aug 2016.

Having now completed my first week as a Property Manager at Paramount I wanted to share the three main things that have really stood out for me.

A Day in the Life... of a Contractor.

25 Jul 2016.

At Tesco, it is company policy that head office staff spend days of their year working on the shop floor with the front facing staff. An idea which pushes people out of their comfort zone and creates a better understanding between the two equally important parts of the business.

Sales: Quarterly Review.

18 Jul 2016.

In Paramount’s last quarterly review we had a lot to comment on, including the additional stamp duty charges for second properties, and the then Prime Minister's announcement of the date for the EU Referendum.

Blog A Day in the Life... of a Lettings Negotiator.

14 Jul 2016.

Monday morning. I rise from bed at approximately 6:00am. First things first - a vision. A checklist for completion, immediately cementing the foundations of my day ahead. I think to myself if nothing else arose, I could be well ahead by lunchtime. It never falls that way, but that’s the best bit. The excitement of the unexpected. I’ve created clarity and a pathway to follow, I carry out the mandatory tasks remaining before starting the daily commute.

Why Choose Management?.

13 Jul 2016.

I was absolutely thrilled last month to be part of a team awarded The Sunday Times Best Property Management in the UK 2016. We collected our award from the brilliant Sir Clive Woodward, and made our way out for our winners interview. We were only asked two questions – the first one I can’t even remember, I was too busy grinning like an idiot. The second one though was ‘why should people use your managed service?’ – and it’s something I have thought a lot about since.

£2K raised for Agents Giving!.

12 Jul 2016.

Way, way back on June 23rd when England was still part of the EU and still had a chance of winning Euro 2016, here at Paramount Properties, we embarked on a challenge of our own - to raise as much money as possible for Agents Giving.

Sunset Snaps.

11 Jul 2016.

Because the sun is finally showing its face (writing this quickly before the next torrential downpour!), and a brief respite from all the doom that Brexit is bringing to London, we thought we'd run a little competition here at Paramount Properties.

Brexit....

11 Jul 2016.

The lettings sector is often a reliable barometer of general market sentiment due to the high turnover of property and applicants' ability to react quickly to changing economic conditions. I truly believe the next few months could be a real opportunity for our sector. There may well be a real boom in immigration from Europe before any Brexit deal is made. This would in turn mean even more people needing rented property and for Landlords is likely to produce a further rise in rents. With an expected nervousness happening in the sales market, now could be a great time for landlords to be expanding their portfolio. People will still need to move and live somewhere and traditionally in times of uncertainty people now look to rent for longer. Whilst we do not know exactly what will happen, any shrinking in our economy has always seen the rental market grow even stronger. Whilst current economic and political turmoil has slowed the lettings market a fraction, it is certainly not all bad news.

How the London Borough of Camden Voted in the EU Referendum.

24 Jun 2016.

It's been a busy Friday morning as Britain voted to leave the EU, David Cameron resigned and Jeremy Corbyn faced a no confidence motion.

Agents Giving Day 2016.

21 Jun 2016.

Agents Giving is the industry charity for the property industry. They work with estate and letting agents across the country, encouraging them to raise money for local and national charities.

5 Property Statistics You Need to Know About this Month.

20 Jun 2016.

Changes to stamp duty and the upcoming EU referendum are just two of factors that have affected the housing market this year. Here are five property statistics that caught our eye this month.

My 6.6 mile Journey of Reflection.

07 Jun 2016.

Spencer Lawrence, Lettings Director at Paramount, reflects on his career and those who have contributed to it ahead of the Lettings Agency of the Year awards ceremony on Friday.

Open Air Cinema in West Hampstead.

02 Jun 2016.

This weekend head to Fortune Green to watch Brooklyn on the big screen. Each summer the Friends of Fortune Green arrange a free open air cinema event on the Green. 'Doors' open at 6:30pm and the film will begin at 9pm. Attendees are encouraged to wear warm clothing and bring a picnic.

Sadiq Khan Names James Murray as Deputy Mayor for Housing.

24 May 2016.

The new Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has appointed James Murray as his deputy mayor for housing. James Murray is currently the lead councillor for housing and development at Islington council but will stand down from his current role to focus on his new position.

The best places for brunch in West Hampstead.

10 May 2016.

It's fair to say that us Londoners love a good weekend brunch. Between our seemingly insatiable appetite for avocado and a penchant for bottomless booze, we're certainly doing our best to keep London's restaurants in business.

13 Tips for Throwing a Great Barbecue.

05 May 2016.

Make the most of the British sunshine this weekend by throwing an impromptu barbecue party. The best barbecues involve great friends and quality meat, and your local neighbourhood pal The Hampstead Butcher & Providore can certainly help you source the latter.

London Mayoral Candidates on Housing.

03 May 2016.

The London mayoral election takes place on 5 May 2016 and Londoners are encouraged to vote for the Mayor of London and the 25 members of the London Assembly. With high demand for and low supply of property in the capital it's no surprise that housing has been a key talking point this election. The candidates have covered it extensively in their manifestos and today we’re taking a closer look at what each of the key Mayoral contenders are promising.

How to Get Money Back if You Paid too Much for Heating Last Winter.

28 Apr 2016.

Did you notice that throughout the recent winter you were less inclined to reach for that extra jumper or refrained from putting up your thermostat up to MAX? The reason for this is the previous winter was apparently the warmest on record since the 17th Century.

Mortgage Lending on the Up.

27 Apr 2016.

Mortgage lending spiralled upwards in March as landlords and second home buyers rushed to beat the stamp duty increase on second homes that came into play in April. Gross mortgage borrowing in March reached £17.1 billion – 64% higher than a year ago and the highest borrowing seen since April 2008.

Supporting Down's Syndrome Association.

21 Apr 2016.

Paramount are supporting a different charity each month throughout 2016. April's charity is Down's Syndrome Association. Every month at Paramount we pick one charity that we want to raise money for, and as April is my month to pick a charity I wanted to select one that means a lot to me.

Five of the Best Armchairs.

10 Apr 2016.

A good armchair can make or break a living room. The best armchairs define a space whilst also providing the perfect place to settle down with a good book or the Sunday papers. Here are five armchairs that caught our eye because of their stylish aesthetics, comfort credentials and nap-inducing powers.

Stamp Duty, EU Referendum and the London Property Market in 2016.

04 Apr 2016.

At the beginning of the year we looked at where the London property market stood at the start of 2016. The average London house price had topped £500,000, the bank rate was still set at 0.5% and gross mortgage lending was 23% higher than the previous year.

What Will the London Property Market Look Like in 25 years?.

29 Mar 2016.

Over the last 12 months house prices have increased, rents have risen and a wave of legislative changes have shaken up the lettings industry. More change is coming, with tax changes and stamp duty hikes for buy to let landlords coming into play – and a potential bank rate increase on the horizon.

Supporting Gesher Primary School.

22 Mar 2016.

Paramount are supporting a different charity each month throughout 2016. March's charity is Gesher, a special needs primary school. It was great to be able to get involved with the Paramount Collective and assist with some of the charity work the company has been involved with.

Moving Day Checklist.

21 Mar 2016.

Ensure moving home is simple and stress free. Follow our moving day checklist and you'll be ready to move in no time! Change of address Although you will apply for your post to be redirected (see below) you still need to notify a host of different people and companies of your change of address, including your bank and DVLA.

Easter eggs for Brent Foodbank.

10 Mar 2016.

Every day individuals in Brent go hungry for a range of reasons, from benefit delays to receiving an unexpected bill on a low income. Thanks to donations, Brent Foodbank are able to still help people put food on the table. Since opening they’ve provided 1,542 three-day emergency food supplies to people in the community that would have gone hungry.

Women of West Hampstead.

07 Mar 2016.

In celebration of International Women's Day, we wanted to learn more about some of the numerous inspirational women with a connection to West Hampstead. Dame Margaret Postgate Cole From the late 1920s to the late 1930s, socialist and feminist Dame Margaret Postgate Cole lived at 7 Parsifal Road in West Hampstead.

Moving Home Utilities Guide.

02 Mar 2016.

Moving into a new property can seem like a daunting task as there is so much to remember to do (take a look at our moving day checklist to make sure you don't forget anything). However the one job that really seems to drive new tenants round the bend is setting up new utility suppliers, which is why we’ve started working with a company called Tenant Shop.

Mother's Day Gift Guide.

29 Feb 2016.

We're huge advocates of shopping (and eating!) local. Thankfully we are spoilt in West Hampstead with a range of amazing independent shops that stock thoughtful and considerate gifts.

Will Buy-to-let Continue to Grow in London?.

26 Feb 2016.

The popularity of buy-to-let property is relatively new. The critical change came with the Housing Act of 1988, and the introduction of Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) in 1989 opened the door for private landlords.

Tufnell Park.

15 Feb 2016.

Like much of North London Tufnell Park was a rural area until the railways came in the middle of the 19th century. Unlike neighbouring areas Tufnell Park was spared disruption as most lines passed through the area in tunnels, and it’s this element of planning that has helped keep Tufnell Park a relatively quiet area whilst also benefiting from its proximity to the hubbub of neighbouring Kentish Town, Archway and Holloway.

Why Location, Location, Location Doesn't Matter.

12 Feb 2016.

We all know that location, location, location is key when you're looking to buy or let a property, but how important is it when choosing an estate agency to sell or let your home?

Supporting Sands, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity.

09 Feb 2016.

Paramount are supporting a different charity each month throughout 2016. February's charity is Sands, a charity that aids stillbirth and neonatal death amongst new born babies.

Valentine's Day 2016 in West Hampstead.

08 Feb 2016.

Whether you want to do something a bit different this Valentine's or you just don't fancy traipsing into town for an overpriced meal, share the love with West Hampstead this weekend when you celebrate Valentine's Day with the best restaurants and shops in London town.

How to Make the Most of Your London Garden.

01 Feb 2016.

Access to green spaces is a top priority for Londoners, with 54% saying that's what they like most about where they live. In fact, Londoners prioritise outside space even more than shopping facilities, good schools and community spirit.

The Average London Property Costs £514,097.

29 Jan 2016.

The average London property now costs £514,097, compared to £188,270 for England and Wales overall. House prices in London have been increasing at a steady rate for many years and saw an increase of 12.4 per cent in the last year alone. This compares to an annual increase of 6.4 per cent for England and Wales.

Bank Rate Stays at Record Low.

14 Jan 2016.

The Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) have voted to maintain Bank Rate at 0.5%. The MPC voted by a majority of 8-1 to maintain it at the same level.

Music of the Spheres Concert.

08 Jan 2016.

Paramount are proud to sponsor "Music of the Spheres" , a concert of music for instruments, stars and planets in West Hampstead on Saturday 30 January.

At a Glance: London Property Market 2016.

04 Jan 2016.

The average house price in London is £506,724, compared to the average for England and Wales of £186,325. Hillingdon is the borough with the highest annual price rise, with an annual movement of 14.4 per cent. The London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea saw the lowest annual change in London, with a movement of 0.3 per cent. This compares to an annual movement of 11.2 per cent for London as a whole.