Being a landlord comes with responsibilities. The property is yours, the tenancy agreement has your name on it, and if something goes wrong, legally, practically or financially, you are the one who has to deal with it. None of this should put you off. But it does mean going in with your eyes open and making sure the basics are properly covered.

Pensions have their place. But for a growing number of people in Plymouth and beyond, property has become the retirement plan they actually trust

Property investment is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Done properly though, in the right location and with the right guidance, it remains one of the most reliable ways to build long-term wealth. Plymouth is a city we know inside out, and we genuinely believe it offers some of the best buy-to-let fundamentals you will find anywhere in the South West.

There is no getting around it. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is the biggest shake-up to the private rented sector in nearly 40 years. It gained Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, and from 1 May 2026 the rules began changing.

Embarking on your first rental journey can feel daunting, but with the right advice, it can be an exciting and smooth experience. We, here at Smeaton Homes are here to guide you through the essentials of becoming a first-time renter.

This is the one you've been working towards. Completion day is the day the property officially becomes yours. Here's what actually happens, what to expect, and how to make the most of it.

Conveyancing. It's one of those words that gets thrown around a lot when you're buying a home, but not many people actually know what it means. In short: it's the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from one person to another. Here's what actually happens.

You've found a home you love. Now what? Making an offer can feel nerve-wracking : especially for the first time. Here's exactly what to do and what to expect once you've taken the plunge.

With your finances sorted and a mortgage in principle in hand, it's time for the exciting bit: actually looking at homes. This is where Rightmove tabs multiply overnight and your weekends start filling up with viewings. Here's how to do it properly.

So you've decided you want to buy your first home. Brilliant. That feeling of having your own place, your own front door, your own space — there's nothing quite like it. But before you start falling in love with listings on Rightmove, there's one conversation that needs to happen first: money.

Preparing your home for sale is crucial for attracting buyers and achieving the best price. Effective home staging can make all the difference. Let Smeaton Sales guide you through the essential dos and don'ts.

This is a good time for buyers to focus on readiness rather than guesswork. In a market where choice has improved but confidence remains mixed, being organised can make all the difference when the right home comes along.