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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. 

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!

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!

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.

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...

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).

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.

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.

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...

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Brent Food Bank

20 Jun 2017

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

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.

Another Bank Holiday - but why?

26 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

19 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

15 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.

Red Nose Day 2017

27 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

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.

So What Have We Learnt From Summer 16?

18 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)

12 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

04 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.

Check Your Home is Safe this Gas Safety Week

19 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.

Affordable Hampstead?

30 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

17 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.

A Day in the Life... of a Contractor

26 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

15 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?

14 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

12 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.

Agents Giving Day 2016

22 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.

My 6.6 mile Journey of Reflection

08 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.

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

06 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.

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

11 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.

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

30 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.

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.

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.

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.