Mockford & Hunt Estate Agency
Properties we think you'll love
Mockford & Hunt
Having worked in the industry for a combined period of over 50 years we know how important trust is and as an agent, reputation is paramount. We strive to provide the level of service which we would expect to receive ourselves. If we say that we are going to do something, we do it.
At Mockford & Hunt we understand that buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in your life. That’s why we take our role as a leading estate agency in the Ashford area very seriously.
Latest Articles
Jun 17, 2025
How do I go about getting an EV Charger to my allocated parking space?
How do I go about getting an EV Charger to my allocated parking space? In today's world where we are encouraged to go green and embrace electric vehicles, there is still a way to go to make it accessible for everyone. Whilst more and more EV charging points are being installed all the time, it's not always an easy option to charge up overnight if you live in a flat or a house with allocated parking away from the house, let alone street parking. How do you get an EV charger to your designated parking area and just how viable is it? Here's a bit of guidance to see if this could be an option for you: 1. Check Land Ownership If your parking space is on your own land, or directly adjacent to your property, it's simpler. If your space is part of a communal area (common in new builds, flats, or estates), you'll likely need: Permission from the freeholder or management company. A wayleave agreement if cables need to cross land you don't own. 2. Contact the Managing Agent or Landowner If it’s a new-build estate, find out who the managing company is. You’ll need written permission to install and run cabling across any communal or third-party areas. Ashford Borough Council may be involved only if the land is council-owned or crosses public footpaths. 3. Speak to a Certified EV Charger Installer Ask for a site survey to check: Distance from your consumer unit (fuse box) to the parking space. Feasibility of cable routing. Cost for armoured cabling and trenching. Choose an OZEV-approved installer, as you may qualify for the EV Chargepoint Grant (especially if you're in a flat or rental). 4. Wayleave or Easement (if needed) If cable crosses land you don't own, you need a wayleave. This is a legal agreement giving you permission to install and maintain a cable. Your installer or solicitor can help draft this. It can take several weeks to months to arrange, depending on the landowner. 5. Planning Permission (Rarely Needed) You usually don’t need planning permission if: You’re not changing the external appearance of your home significantly. The work is within permitted development rights. (Do check this though with Ashford Borough Council) But you might need it if: The charger is going in a conservation area or near a listed building. You're running above-ground cabling across communal or visible areas. Ashford Borough Council's planning portal:? https://www.ashford.gov.uk/planning Cost Estimate (for remote parking installs) £1,500 – £4,000+ is typical if trenching and long-distance cabling is involved. Costs increase with: Distance Ground type (e.g. paving vs grass) Need for barriers, trenching permits, or reinstatement Alternative Solutions If permission is denied or impractical, consider: Using a heavy-duty removable cable protector to run across paths temporarily (council may still need to approve this). Lobbying your landlord or residents’ group to install communal EV chargers. Installing a solar/battery-powered remote charger (early-stage but improving). Local Resources Ashford Borough Council Planning Department: 01233 331111 UK Power Networks (DNO): https://www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/ – For new connections OZEV Grant Info: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/government-grants-for-low-emission-vehicles ...
Apr 15, 2025
Spring - Home Preparation Checklist
Marketing your home in the spring is a great idea and in Ashford, the housing marketing is seeing a surge in activity. The weather’s better, flowers are blooming, and buyers are typically more active so why not make the most of this prime selling season... Here’s the best advice for preparing your home: Clean & Refresh ☐ Deep clean entire home (floors, windows, skirting boards, etc.) ☐ Shampoo carpets or clean rugs ☐ Wash windows (inside & out) ☐ Air out the home — open windows if weather permits ☐ Replace air filters Curb Appeal ☐ Mow the lawn and edge borders ☐ Trim shrubs and trees ☐ Plant fresh flowers or add potted plants ☐ Power wash exterior, pathway and driveway ☐ Paint or clean the front door ☐ Replace worn-out doormat Minor Repairs & Updates ☐ Fix squeaky doors, leaky faucets, and loose handles ☐ Patch holes and touch up paint ☐ Replace burned-out light bulbs ☐ Refresh caulking in kitchen and bathrooms Declutter & Depersonalise ☐ Clear countertops and shelves ☐ Remove personal photos and items ☐ Organise fitted wardrobes and storage spaces ☐ Donate or store unnecessary furniture Light & Bright ☐ Use light-coloured linens and decor ☐ Open curtains/blinds to let in natural light ☐ Add fresh flowers or greenery indoors ☐ Use mirrors to enhance light and space Stage to Sell ☐ Define each room’s purpose (guest room, office, etc.) ☐ Create inviting and cosy living areas ☐ Add seasonal touches (e.g., spring wreath, fresh scent) Final Touches ☐ Keep home tidy and “show-ready” ☐ Prepare a folder with appliance manuals, warranties, etc. ☐ Hide pet items and ensure the home smells fresh ☐ Instruct an agent such as Mockford & Hunt to ensure you have the best professional marketing in place, ready to showcase your home to attract the right buyer for your property. Download your print friendly checklist here: Spring - Home Preparation Checklist...
Apr 7, 2025
Should I buy a property with knotweed?
Japanese knotweed was first identified in the UK in the early 19th century after being introduced as an ornamental plant and societal awareness of its impact grew in the late 20th century. Formal treatment methods began developing significantly in the 1990s, as the invasive nature of the plant became more widely recognised. Having worked within estate agency since 2001, I remember when knotweed was talked about and even then, due to the fact that treatments were still not as successful, it was generally thought that you wouldn't get a mortgage if the plot had knotweed which naturally would make people shy away from these properties. The same cannot be said for today however. Whilst knotweed is still as invasive as it ever was, the treatments plans now on offer have been refined and are often based on years of research and practical experience. Today, many licensed professionals and firms specialise in knotweed treatment, offering comprehensive plans that comply with environmental regulations. These plans and methods of eradicating new growth have proven far more effective and subsequently many mortgage lenders will lend on a property so long as there is proof of a professional treatment prevention plan in place. That in itself should be that much more reassuring as ultimately, if the banks had concerns over protecting their asset, they simply would loan the finance. That being said, you will need to do your due diligence and check that any knotweed has a comprehensive plan in place and so it is important to ask the selling agent of any home that you are considering purchasing, to have a copy of the report so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not you pursue the property. If the owners haven't got anything to hide, they should offer this up quite freely. The reports will likely provide reassurance assuming that the treatment plan has been undertaken by a reputable company after reviewing the site as to the best means of dealing with the infestation. For me, gone are the days when I would rule out a property just because of the site having knotweed. I would certainly ask more questions and would want to know that the site is under a treatment plan but I wouldn't walk away from a property just because of scaremongering when in reality, in 2025, there are so many established specialists that can now deal with this successfully. Frances Hunt - Mockford & Hunt A few pointers to bare in mind: When buying a home with a knotweed treatment plan in place, you can often be given reassurances, provided you take certain steps to ensure due diligence: Professional Management: A verified treatment plan, executed by a licensed and experienced specialist, can ensure that the knotweed is being managed effectively. Ask to see the report to verify the credentials and reviews of the treatment provider. Documented Treatment History: A comprehensive treatment plan should include documentation of past treatments, monitoring results, and future maintenance schedules. Ask to review this documentation to understand the extent and success of the treatment. Guaranteed Outcomes: Some treatment plans may come with guarantees or warranties for a specified period, assuring you that if the knotweed returns, the treatment company will address it at no additional cost. Regular Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring and maintenance are critical components of effective knotweed management. Knowing that there will be follow-up assessments can provide reassurance that the situation is being actively managed. Assessments from Specialists: You can request that an independent specialist conduct their own assessment of the knotweed treatment plan and its effectiveness. This should provide you with an additional layer of comfort and confidence. Impact on Property Value: Properly managed knotweed may not significantly affect property value. Many lenders and insurers now have policies in place regarding properties with knotweed treatment plans, making financing more feasible. Knowledge of Legal Obligations: You can be assured that sellers are legally obligated to disclose any known issues, including knotweed. A transparent history can reduce the risk of hidden issues. Home Insurance: You can inquire about how the treatment plan may affect home insurance policies. Many insurers provide coverage for properties with an active treatment plan. For an idea on coverage, ask your agent who the current sellers home insurance is with for a good idea of who would provide cover. By actively seeking information, verifying treatment plans, and engaging professionals in the process, you as a buyer can feel more confident when considering a property with a knotweed treatment plan in place meaning you may not have to let go of that dream home after all. If you have any questions relating to this topic, feel free to reach out on enquiries@mockfordandhunt.co.uk ...
Mar 5, 2025
Will my mortgage broker check I'm on the best rates up until exchange?
When buying a home, many buyers focus on negotiating the best purchase price but overlook the potential savings in their mortgage rate. One of the most effective ways to save money, sometimes thousands of pounds, is to ensure you have the best mortgage rate possible right up until the exchange of contracts. Even a small reduction in your mortgage interest rate can lead to significant savings over the life of the loan. The impact of a small rate reduction Mortgage rates fluctuate constantly, and lenders frequently update their offers. If you secure a mortgage rate early in the home-buying process but fail to check for better deals before exchange, you could miss out on savings. A mere 0.02% decrease in your mortgage interest rate can make a difference, especially on large loan amounts. For every £100,000 borrowed, a reduction of 0.02% in the interest rate can lead to substantial savings. Let’s break it down: On a typical 25-year repayment mortgage, a 0.02% lower interest rate equates to approximately £120 in savings over the term of the loan per £100,000 borrowed. If you are borrowing £300,000, that translates to about £360 in savings. If you have a larger mortgage of £500,000, the savings can reach around £600. While this may not seem like a huge amount, it’s important to remember that mortgage rates can change by much more than 0.02%, meaning the potential savings could be far greater. Why check my mortgage rate during the sales process? Before you exchange contracts, your mortgage offer is not legally binding. This means you still have the flexibility to switch to a better deal if you find one. Here are some key reasons to check your rate: Market Fluctuations – Interest rates move regularly based on economic factors. What seemed like a good deal when you applied may no longer be the best option. New Lender Offers – Lenders frequently introduce new mortgage products that might offer a lower rate or better terms. Improved Credit Profile – If your financial situation has improved (e.g., a higher credit score or a lower debt-to-income ratio), you may qualify for a better rate. Compounded Savings – Even a slight reduction in your interest rate results in lower monthly repayments, reducing your financial burden over time. How to ensure I get the best rate Consult a trusted mortgage broker – A broker can compare deals across multiple lenders and help you find the most competitive rate. It's worth knowing that not all brokers will look to see if that rate has improved throughout the process of the conveyancing running it's course so you'll need to ask the question to find out if your broker will do this for you. With Mockford & Hunt, we work with two local trusted mortgage brokers that will ensure that they look out for your best interests by checking rates along the way, right up to exchange of contracts. That way, you'll be able to secure the best rate at the time that your offer is agreed whilst tracking the mortgage market for better deals along the way so that you can ditch and switch if a better deal comes up. Final Thoughts A home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make, and ensuring you secure the lowest possible mortgage rate is crucial. By working with a broker who will be checking for better mortgage deals right up to exchanging contracts, you could save hundreds or even thousands of pounds over the life of your loan. If you're in the process of buying a home, feel free to talk to one of our brokers to ensure you get the best advice right up until exchange of contracts. Just contact us now to arrange free mortgage appointment. Tel 01233 367606 or email us at enquiries@mockfordandhunt.co.uk * Please bare in mind that if you do change your mortgage product just before exchange, it may delay the timeline in which you will be in a position to exchange contracts so should you change product this late into the transaction, it may be worth discussing this first with your solicitor and estate agent involved in the purchase to ensure that any delay will not hinder your chance of securing the property. ...
Jun 17, 2025
How do I go about getting an EV Charger to my allocated parking space?
How do I go about getting an EV Charger to my allocated parking space? In today's world where we are encouraged to go green and embrace electric vehicles, there is still a way to go to make it accessible for everyone. Whilst more and more EV charging points are being installed all the time, it's not always an easy option to charge up overnight if you live in a flat or a house with allocated parking away from the house, let alone street parking. How do you get an EV charger to your designated parking area and just how viable is it? Here's a bit of guidance to see if this could be an option for you: 1. Check Land Ownership If your parking space is on your own land, or directly adjacent to your property, it's simpler. If your space is part of a communal area (common in new builds, flats, or estates), you'll likely need: Permission from the freeholder or management company. A wayleave agreement if cables need to cross land you don't own. 2. Contact the Managing Agent or Landowner If it’s a new-build estate, find out who the managing company is. You’ll need written permission to install and run cabling across any communal or third-party areas. Ashford Borough Council may be involved only if the land is council-owned or crosses public footpaths. 3. Speak to a Certified EV Charger Installer Ask for a site survey to check: Distance from your consumer unit (fuse box) to the parking space. Feasibility of cable routing. Cost for armoured cabling and trenching. Choose an OZEV-approved installer, as you may qualify for the EV Chargepoint Grant (especially if you're in a flat or rental). 4. Wayleave or Easement (if needed) If cable crosses land you don't own, you need a wayleave. This is a legal agreement giving you permission to install and maintain a cable. Your installer or solicitor can help draft this. It can take several weeks to months to arrange, depending on the landowner. 5. Planning Permission (Rarely Needed) You usually don’t need planning permission if: You’re not changing the external appearance of your home significantly. The work is within permitted development rights. (Do check this though with Ashford Borough Council) But you might need it if: The charger is going in a conservation area or near a listed building. You're running above-ground cabling across communal or visible areas. Ashford Borough Council's planning portal:? https://www.ashford.gov.uk/planning Cost Estimate (for remote parking installs) £1,500 – £4,000+ is typical if trenching and long-distance cabling is involved. Costs increase with: Distance Ground type (e.g. paving vs grass) Need for barriers, trenching permits, or reinstatement Alternative Solutions If permission is denied or impractical, consider: Using a heavy-duty removable cable protector to run across paths temporarily (council may still need to approve this). Lobbying your landlord or residents’ group to install communal EV chargers. Installing a solar/battery-powered remote charger (early-stage but improving). Local Resources Ashford Borough Council Planning Department: 01233 331111 UK Power Networks (DNO): https://www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/ – For new connections OZEV Grant Info: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/government-grants-for-low-emission-vehicles ...
Apr 15, 2025
Spring - Home Preparation Checklist
Marketing your home in the spring is a great idea and in Ashford, the housing marketing is seeing a surge in activity. The weather’s better, flowers are blooming, and buyers are typically more active so why not make the most of this prime selling season... Here’s the best advice for preparing your home: Clean & Refresh ☐ Deep clean entire home (floors, windows, skirting boards, etc.) ☐ Shampoo carpets or clean rugs ☐ Wash windows (inside & out) ☐ Air out the home — open windows if weather permits ☐ Replace air filters Curb Appeal ☐ Mow the lawn and edge borders ☐ Trim shrubs and trees ☐ Plant fresh flowers or add potted plants ☐ Power wash exterior, pathway and driveway ☐ Paint or clean the front door ☐ Replace worn-out doormat Minor Repairs & Updates ☐ Fix squeaky doors, leaky faucets, and loose handles ☐ Patch holes and touch up paint ☐ Replace burned-out light bulbs ☐ Refresh caulking in kitchen and bathrooms Declutter & Depersonalise ☐ Clear countertops and shelves ☐ Remove personal photos and items ☐ Organise fitted wardrobes and storage spaces ☐ Donate or store unnecessary furniture Light & Bright ☐ Use light-coloured linens and decor ☐ Open curtains/blinds to let in natural light ☐ Add fresh flowers or greenery indoors ☐ Use mirrors to enhance light and space Stage to Sell ☐ Define each room’s purpose (guest room, office, etc.) ☐ Create inviting and cosy living areas ☐ Add seasonal touches (e.g., spring wreath, fresh scent) Final Touches ☐ Keep home tidy and “show-ready” ☐ Prepare a folder with appliance manuals, warranties, etc. ☐ Hide pet items and ensure the home smells fresh ☐ Instruct an agent such as Mockford & Hunt to ensure you have the best professional marketing in place, ready to showcase your home to attract the right buyer for your property. Download your print friendly checklist here: Spring - Home Preparation Checklist...
Apr 7, 2025
Should I buy a property with knotweed?
Japanese knotweed was first identified in the UK in the early 19th century after being introduced as an ornamental plant and societal awareness of its impact grew in the late 20th century. Formal treatment methods began developing significantly in the 1990s, as the invasive nature of the plant became more widely recognised. Having worked within estate agency since 2001, I remember when knotweed was talked about and even then, due to the fact that treatments were still not as successful, it was generally thought that you wouldn't get a mortgage if the plot had knotweed which naturally would make people shy away from these properties. The same cannot be said for today however. Whilst knotweed is still as invasive as it ever was, the treatments plans now on offer have been refined and are often based on years of research and practical experience. Today, many licensed professionals and firms specialise in knotweed treatment, offering comprehensive plans that comply with environmental regulations. These plans and methods of eradicating new growth have proven far more effective and subsequently many mortgage lenders will lend on a property so long as there is proof of a professional treatment prevention plan in place. That in itself should be that much more reassuring as ultimately, if the banks had concerns over protecting their asset, they simply would loan the finance. That being said, you will need to do your due diligence and check that any knotweed has a comprehensive plan in place and so it is important to ask the selling agent of any home that you are considering purchasing, to have a copy of the report so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not you pursue the property. If the owners haven't got anything to hide, they should offer this up quite freely. The reports will likely provide reassurance assuming that the treatment plan has been undertaken by a reputable company after reviewing the site as to the best means of dealing with the infestation. For me, gone are the days when I would rule out a property just because of the site having knotweed. I would certainly ask more questions and would want to know that the site is under a treatment plan but I wouldn't walk away from a property just because of scaremongering when in reality, in 2025, there are so many established specialists that can now deal with this successfully. Frances Hunt - Mockford & Hunt A few pointers to bare in mind: When buying a home with a knotweed treatment plan in place, you can often be given reassurances, provided you take certain steps to ensure due diligence: Professional Management: A verified treatment plan, executed by a licensed and experienced specialist, can ensure that the knotweed is being managed effectively. Ask to see the report to verify the credentials and reviews of the treatment provider. Documented Treatment History: A comprehensive treatment plan should include documentation of past treatments, monitoring results, and future maintenance schedules. Ask to review this documentation to understand the extent and success of the treatment. Guaranteed Outcomes: Some treatment plans may come with guarantees or warranties for a specified period, assuring you that if the knotweed returns, the treatment company will address it at no additional cost. Regular Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring and maintenance are critical components of effective knotweed management. Knowing that there will be follow-up assessments can provide reassurance that the situation is being actively managed. Assessments from Specialists: You can request that an independent specialist conduct their own assessment of the knotweed treatment plan and its effectiveness. This should provide you with an additional layer of comfort and confidence. Impact on Property Value: Properly managed knotweed may not significantly affect property value. Many lenders and insurers now have policies in place regarding properties with knotweed treatment plans, making financing more feasible. Knowledge of Legal Obligations: You can be assured that sellers are legally obligated to disclose any known issues, including knotweed. A transparent history can reduce the risk of hidden issues. Home Insurance: You can inquire about how the treatment plan may affect home insurance policies. Many insurers provide coverage for properties with an active treatment plan. For an idea on coverage, ask your agent who the current sellers home insurance is with for a good idea of who would provide cover. By actively seeking information, verifying treatment plans, and engaging professionals in the process, you as a buyer can feel more confident when considering a property with a knotweed treatment plan in place meaning you may not have to let go of that dream home after all. If you have any questions relating to this topic, feel free to reach out on enquiries@mockfordandhunt.co.uk ...
Mar 5, 2025
Will my mortgage broker check I'm on the best rates up until exchange?
When buying a home, many buyers focus on negotiating the best purchase price but overlook the potential savings in their mortgage rate. One of the most effective ways to save money, sometimes thousands of pounds, is to ensure you have the best mortgage rate possible right up until the exchange of contracts. Even a small reduction in your mortgage interest rate can lead to significant savings over the life of the loan. The impact of a small rate reduction Mortgage rates fluctuate constantly, and lenders frequently update their offers. If you secure a mortgage rate early in the home-buying process but fail to check for better deals before exchange, you could miss out on savings. A mere 0.02% decrease in your mortgage interest rate can make a difference, especially on large loan amounts. For every £100,000 borrowed, a reduction of 0.02% in the interest rate can lead to substantial savings. Let’s break it down: On a typical 25-year repayment mortgage, a 0.02% lower interest rate equates to approximately £120 in savings over the term of the loan per £100,000 borrowed. If you are borrowing £300,000, that translates to about £360 in savings. If you have a larger mortgage of £500,000, the savings can reach around £600. While this may not seem like a huge amount, it’s important to remember that mortgage rates can change by much more than 0.02%, meaning the potential savings could be far greater. Why check my mortgage rate during the sales process? Before you exchange contracts, your mortgage offer is not legally binding. This means you still have the flexibility to switch to a better deal if you find one. Here are some key reasons to check your rate: Market Fluctuations – Interest rates move regularly based on economic factors. What seemed like a good deal when you applied may no longer be the best option. New Lender Offers – Lenders frequently introduce new mortgage products that might offer a lower rate or better terms. Improved Credit Profile – If your financial situation has improved (e.g., a higher credit score or a lower debt-to-income ratio), you may qualify for a better rate. Compounded Savings – Even a slight reduction in your interest rate results in lower monthly repayments, reducing your financial burden over time. How to ensure I get the best rate Consult a trusted mortgage broker – A broker can compare deals across multiple lenders and help you find the most competitive rate. It's worth knowing that not all brokers will look to see if that rate has improved throughout the process of the conveyancing running it's course so you'll need to ask the question to find out if your broker will do this for you. With Mockford & Hunt, we work with two local trusted mortgage brokers that will ensure that they look out for your best interests by checking rates along the way, right up to exchange of contracts. That way, you'll be able to secure the best rate at the time that your offer is agreed whilst tracking the mortgage market for better deals along the way so that you can ditch and switch if a better deal comes up. Final Thoughts A home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make, and ensuring you secure the lowest possible mortgage rate is crucial. By working with a broker who will be checking for better mortgage deals right up to exchanging contracts, you could save hundreds or even thousands of pounds over the life of your loan. If you're in the process of buying a home, feel free to talk to one of our brokers to ensure you get the best advice right up until exchange of contracts. Just contact us now to arrange free mortgage appointment. Tel 01233 367606 or email us at enquiries@mockfordandhunt.co.uk * Please bare in mind that if you do change your mortgage product just before exchange, it may delay the timeline in which you will be in a position to exchange contracts so should you change product this late into the transaction, it may be worth discussing this first with your solicitor and estate agent involved in the purchase to ensure that any delay will not hinder your chance of securing the property. ...
Our Client Testimonials
These guys are brilliant!
Well it has been an experience. Tim and Frances have been exceptional. From the moment we met the approach felt different and after being on the market for 8 months with no hope of success, Tim changed the approach and we are just about to complete. The level of of contact has been brilliant. Setting up a WhatsApp group and including the solicitor is genius. If required the mortgage broker is included as well. At all times Tim and Frances were contactable and responsive. Queries were answered quickly, it felt like we had a friend guiding us through the process. I’m not sure anyone likes the process of moving so it’s about making it as sensible as possible. Mockford and Hunt have achieved this and made us feel valued as clients. They pushed the other side when needed and supported us even when the questions from the other side were constant. An excellent partnership and would trust no one else with selling a house. Brilliant service with excellent people.
A first time buyers dream
Myself and my partner are first time buyers, we had little to no idea what to do going into our first purchase. I can honestly say I could not have asked better from both Frances and Tim. Tim was brilliant in the first stages of the purchase putting us at ease and giving up genuine advice, looking out for myself and my partner through every step. Frances has been a dream to deal with. Our purchase hasn’t been a smooth one but without Frances working her magic and keeping pressure on all the right people it just would not have happened. I cannot thank this team enough for the hard work and dedication they have to their field. They have been a pleasure to deal with the entire time. To any first time buyers these are people to be trusted and appreciated. Once again. Thank you Tim and Frances you’ve been fantastic
They actually care about people
Tim and Frances at Mockford & Hunt are a dream team. They actually care about people rather than only getting the sale. I would never use anyone else in this area. Thank you so much for seeing us through a stressful year and constantly keeping us optimistic. Thank you so very much.
Meet our Team
With over 40 years experience in the industry combined, our team are experts in their field
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