Our Journal

Articles and Market Commentaries

Is interest only still an option for house purchase in the UK?

We explore the current availability of interest-only mortgages in the UK, their appropriateness in various scenarios, and the criteria lenders typically expect borrowers to meet to qualify for their use.

Investing in an Alpine Retreat

Investing in a ski chalet in the French Alps is a dream for many winter enthusiasts, offering not just a property but a lifestyle.

The Appeal of Buying or Renting a Turn-Key Property

We explore the appeal of buying or renting a turn-key property and the advantages it offers for both homeowners and investors.

Lighting up London: Must see firework shows

From the annual Bonfire Night celebrations to New Year's Eve extravaganzas, London hosts some of the most breathtaking firework shows.

10 Small Steps to Improve Energy Efficiency

By implementing small changes and improvements, homeowners can not only reduce their energy bills but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

The Importance of EPC Ratings

We delve into the significance of EPC ratings in UK property, and how they provide valuable information about energy efficiency which helps buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants make informed decisions.

Discover a Slice of Paradise: Owning property in Barbados

More and more individuals are choosing to make Barbados their home away from home or as a sound property investment opportunity. We explore what the island has to offer and how to make a property purchase as smooth as possible.

Let's Explore: Which short-term rental platform is right for you?

With the festive season fast approaching, short lets appear to have taken a renewed lease of life, showing clear signs of ending 2023 with a bang.

Navigating Life's Journey: Trends along the Northern Line

With the iconic Northern Line serving as a lifeline connecting neighbourhoods in the South West, it's no surprise that many residents choose to stay within the vicinity as their families expand and their needs change.

Bank of England interest rate freeze opens the door to your new home

Following the recent decision made by the Bank of England, borrowing rates remain unchanged at 5.25% for the month, so it’s expected that mortgage interest rates will now stabilise.

Investment and Connection – linking luxury property and fine art in London

We delve into the dynamic connection between art and luxury homes, while spotlighting London's best art events that activates this intertwining relationship.

Architectural Marvels Around the World: What defines a trophy home?

A trophy home is more than just a lavish mansion with opulent amenities; it represents the pinnacle of real estate achievement, boasting a unique combination of architectural excellence, location, historical significance, and extravagant features.

Exploring Chiswick: A Dog-Friendly Haven in West London

Nestled in the heart of West London, Chiswick is a picturesque and vibrant neighbourhood that effortlessly blends the charm of a quaint village with the conveniences of urban living.

Rental Reforms: 5 Things landlords need to know

Our Head of Lettings, Tanya Hasking, sheds light on the main changes landlords can expect with the incoming rental reforms.

Seize the season: The September surge in the property market

September is a pivotal month for the property industry, bringing a surge of new properties to the market, making it a golden opportunity for buyers.

The Importance of Accurate Property Valuations for London Investors

Learn why accurate property valuations are crucial for London investors with John D Wood & Co. who have been trusted for over 150 years by clients in London, Surrey, and the Countryside.

5 Key Factors that Affect the Value of Your London Property

In this article, we look at five key factors that impact the value of your property, highlighting how each aspect can contribute to the overall valuation process of your property.

Six of the Best: Things to do in Notting Hill

Notting Hill, a charming and vibrant neighbourhood in the heart of London, is known for its distinctive character, colourful houses, and lively atmosphere.

A turning point for mortgage rates?

James Keable, Head of Capital Private Finance, considers whether we have reached a turning point mortgage rate rises.

Italy: A jewel for tourism and property investment

Italy holds an irresistible allure with its cultural richness, stunning landscapes and delectable cuisine attracting both tourists and overseas property investors alike.

Prosperity in Buy-To-Let investment

Amit Gupta, Regional Financial Services Manager at Capital Private Finance, looks at how the current market is impacting landlords.

The ultimate guide to luxury short lets in London

We take a look at the world of luxury short lets and explore the diverse range of options available – from the benefits through to the booking process, we cover it all.

Market Appraisals vs Valuations, what are the differences?

The term ‘valuation’ gets used widely throughout the residential property industry. We explore the differences in approach and objective, and seek to clarify when one option may be more suitable than the other.

Let’s Get Real – An honest look at the cost of borrowing

James Keable the Head of Capital Private Finance takes a look at the truth behind the media headlines when it comes to mortgage finance.

24/7 Living: The indispensable role of concierge services

Imagine a living experience where convenience, security, and a vibrant community are seamlessly woven into the fabric of your home – such a lifestyle is made possible by the invaluable presence of a concierge service.

A glimpse into the French Riviera

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is renowned for its beautiful weather, stunning coastline, and idyllic countryside. It is home to some of the most sought-after real estate in the world.

Exploring the charm of Wimbledon

Wimbledon's enduring appeal lies not only in its historic tennis heritage but also in its exceptional quality of life and strong community spirit. We explore its connectivity, abundant amenities, and diverse range of properties.

Navigating an ever-evolving property market

Managing Director, Polly Ogden Duffy, comments on the Bank of England’s interest rate increase from 4.5% to 5%, and explains the importance of seeking expert advice 'now more than ever'.

Who is renting super prime properties?

Properties classed as ‘Super Prime’ are often found in the Home Counties, hosting professional football players and actors as a typical tenant.

Pricing your home: How to get it right

Pricing your home is one of the most important financial tasks homeowners will ever undertake. It is normally our largest asset, so the stakes are high. If you want to know how to get it right and extract the best price then read on.

5 reasons why gardens are good for you

Whether you love to exercise outdoors, are a keen gardener, or just enjoy a few quiet moments in some outdoor space, we look at how gardens can improve our physical and emotional wellbeing.

Top tips when buying property in Spain

Rich in history, culture, coast and sunshine, Spain not only enjoys an excellent infrastructure that includes healthcare and transport links but what’s more, it offers a favourable lifestyle and cost of living.

Why Short-Term Lets are the Future of London Accommodation

In this article, we take a look at why short-term lets are becoming a popular choice, exploring the flexibility, cost-effectiveness and personalisation that make them the logical choice for the contemporary traveller.

Spring Lettings Market Update

We are quickly approaching peak lettings season and there are certainly signs of a ‘normal’ summer market. Although, similarly to ‘the pandemic’ years, this year is set to have its own nuances.

Renters (Reform) Bill

The increased clarity provided by the government’s recent Renters (Reform) Bill announcement is welcomed. Whist there is still a need for detail, the proposed changes and commitment to “bring in a better deal for renters” is designed to strengthen the rental market for all involved.

Rates up, inflation down, what will happen to mortgages?

James Keable, Mortgage Services Director at Capital Private Finance looks at what will happen to mortgages as Bank of England rates go up and inflation goes down.

100% Mortgage Opportunity for Renters

James Keable, Mortgage Services Director at Capital Private Finance talks through Skipton Building Society’s recent opportunity for some renters – as we see the return of the 100% mortgage.

Airbnb vs Short Lets

There is a renewed spring in the London step this year. Airports, hotels and retail are finally seeing pre-Covid numbers return to the UK, along with an emerging unique market in the property industry – short term rentals.

A tailored approach to mortgages

James Keable, Mortgage Services Director at Capital Private Finance, discusses how high net worth individuals benefit from a tailored approach to their mortgage requirements.

What’s driving the property market?

Our Managing Director, Polly Ogden Duffy, looks at key factors driving the residential property market as we leave behind a turbulent winter, with the rising interest rate hiccups. Now that the upwards trajectory of property prices has been interrupted, has a degree of normality returned to the market?

Mountain Marvels

As the impact of global warming and climate change on the mountain scene has gained momentum, we discover that owning a base at altitude is becoming an increasingly rewarding investment with all year round appeal.

Chelsea Green: SW3’s small but mighty spot

A fragment of the much larger old Chelsea Common has recently been rejuvenated, making it a mighty and thriving area. Our local experts take a tour of Chelsea Green and all its updates.

Interest Rate Insights

While the Bank of England voted to increase interest rates by 0.25%, some of the largest mortgage lenders reduced their fixed-rate mortgage products by 0.45%. What does this mean for the property market? Our experts at Capital Private Finance share their insight.

Breaching the commuter-belt

Our Country House Manager, Claire Carter, says that many are spreading their wings even further aﬁeld and looking at areas not considered before.

How to get a swift sale

If you want to achieve the swift sale of your property, you need to operate like a Formula 1 team. A fast car is not enough, you need to have the right race strategy, mechanics and pit crew.

Is inheritance a taboo topic?

New research from Zoopla shows that many are relying on property inheritance for future financial planning.

Money matters: Why not now?

We look at whether waiting to buy could actually cost you more. Despite Bank of England base rates rising to 4%, many are still waiting for the cheaper fixed mortgage rates to materialise.

Reasons to remain confident being a landlord

81% of John D Wood & Co.’s landlords renewed existing tenancies, securing an average of 12.5% increase in rental income at the time of renewal.

2023: What's in store for the prime property market?

New Year, new possibilities. 2023 feels like a year of transition as we adjust to a new normal, living with higher costs and interest rates than recent years. We forecast that London and prime UK locations will still be seen as great places to put down roots, build businesses and make investments.

Winter Hideaways

Whenever the colder weather and darker nights linger, our daydreams often fluctuate between two very different types of winter escape – the snowy slopes and sun soaked beaches. We’ve rounded up a selection cold and warm destinations to tickle your taste buds for a change of scenery.

Sale of the Year: Chelsea’s record setting off-market home

During May 2020, in the middle of the ﬁrst Covid lockdown, bespoke property developers Peter Dykes and his business partner Alexander Acloque took the brave decision to exchange contracts on the purchase of their latest redevelopment project at 15 Smith Terrace in Chelsea.

Getting into the festive spirit

Prime estate agent John D Wood & Co. has been getting into the festive spirit this December. From carol services and Christmas light switch on events, to festive jumpers and fun runs, John D Wood & Co. has been celebrating t season with their local communities.

Defining the decades

With more than 150 years’ of experience selling and letting properties, we look at how architecture has changed over the decades.

A guide to Richmond Park

Visiting Richmond Park for the first time? We are here to help you find your bearings around the paths, ponds, buildings and lodges in this royal park.

Recommended farmers markets

Today’s Great British Farmers Markets are a joy to those in the know.

London's best blue plaques

er spotted a blue plaque and wondered what they’re about? Paying homage to London’s notable residents of history, plan a day out along the blue plaque path.

Frighteningly fun Halloween listings

There is nothing better than seeing lush green lawns with beautiful flowers in bloom. The classic English garden is a much-loved idiom, popularised by influential gardeners and writers.

Transformative autumn trends

Staying-in season is here and we’re thinking about cosy nights at home and weekends spent sheltering from the weather.

Market Forecast

Following Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s mini-budget, Managing Director, Polly Ogden Duffy talks about how the Government’s ‘Growth Plan’ leans towards making London and prime UK locations a more attractive place to earn, live and invest.

The John D Wood & Co. Journal

Articles and Market Commentaries

Company updates and announcements

Buying

Renting

Selling

Letting

The John D Wood & Co. Journal

Articles and Market Commentaries

Is interest only still an option for house purchase in the UK?

Investing in an Alpine Retreat

The Appeal of Buying or Renting a Turn-Key Property

Lighting up London: Must see firework shows

10 Small Steps to Improve Energy Efficiency

The Importance of EPC Ratings

Discover a Slice of Paradise: Owning property in Barbados

Let's Explore: Which short-term rental platform is right for you?

Navigating Life's Journey: Trends along the Northern Line

Bank of England interest rate freeze opens the door to your new home

Investment and Connection – linking luxury property and fine art in London

Architectural Marvels Around the World: What defines a trophy home?

Exploring Chiswick: A Dog-Friendly Haven in West London

Rental Reforms: 5 Things landlords need to know

Seize the season: The September surge in the property market

The Importance of Accurate Property Valuations for London Investors

5 Key Factors that Affect the Value of Your London Property

Six of the Best: Things to do in Notting Hill

A turning point for mortgage rates?

Italy: A jewel for tourism and property investment

Prosperity in Buy-To-Let investment

The ultimate guide to luxury short lets in London

Market Appraisals vs Valuations, what are the differences?

Let’s Get Real – An honest look at the cost of borrowing

24/7 Living: The indispensable role of concierge services

A glimpse into the French Riviera

Exploring the charm of Wimbledon

Navigating an ever-evolving property market

Who is renting super prime properties?

Pricing your home: How to get it right

5 reasons why gardens are good for you

Top tips when buying property in Spain

Why Short-Term Lets are the Future of London Accommodation

Spring Lettings Market Update

Renters (Reform) Bill

Rates up, inflation down, what will happen to mortgages?

100% Mortgage Opportunity for Renters

Airbnb vs Short Lets

A tailored approach to mortgages

What’s driving the property market?

Mountain Marvels

Chelsea Green: SW3’s small but mighty spot

Interest Rate Insights

Breaching the commuter-belt

How to get a swift sale

Is inheritance a taboo topic?

Money matters: Why not now?

Reasons to remain confident being a landlord

2023: What's in store for the prime property market?

Winter Hideaways

Sale of the Year: Chelsea’s record setting off-market home

Getting into the festive spirit

Defining the decades

A guide to Richmond Park

Recommended farmers markets

London's best blue plaques

Frighteningly fun Halloween listings

Transformative autumn trends

Market Forecast

Company updates and announcements

Spooktacular Property Listings and Drawing Competition

John D Wood & Co. take part in Sleep Out fundraiser

James Waight is promoted to Head of Sales

John D Wood & Co. expands business with new office in historic Winchester

John D Wood & Co. unveils new international website with 70,000+ listings

The John D Wood & Co. Brand Family announces partnership with Glass Door Homeless Charity

John East joins us as Head of New Homes

Expanding to the Docklands & City

Milestone move for John D Wood & Co. as they open a new HQ

John D Wood & Co. is upsizing in Chiswick

John D Wood & Co. go litter picking

2022 Annual Conference

John D Wood & Co. go green with their car fleet

New office open on Abbeville Road

Moving home in Tier 4

New office open on Cadogan Street

Keeping you moving

Country House Department