2016 SAW a record year for leading multi-disciplinary property business Humberts in Taunton. The Residential business saw an increase of 15 per cent on the previous year whilst the commercial business experienced a 19 per cent increase – an all-time record. As recognition of the commercial success, Stephen Richards has been promoted to Head of Commercial across the business.

Stephen Richards, Head of Commercial at Humberts says: “The Commercial property market within Somerset has been buoyant in 2016 - the only problem looking forward into 2017 is the lack of stock that is coming to the market which is leading to excess demand. The industrial sector in Somerset in particular is extremely energetic and the demand for commercial investment properties is at its highest for a decade which is relating through into yields.

Stephen Richards and his team also specialise in Leisure properties including holiday letting businesses such as holiday cottage complexes, lodge parks, caravan parks and campsites. Stephen continues: “This property type saw an upturn last year due to the popularity of the “staycation”. The majority of these properties being sold to purchasers from outside of the region especially London and the South East who are looking to move into the South West for a change in lifestyle, and the typical purchaser is 45-55 and a husband and wife team looking for a semi-retirement project.”

James Gray, Head of the Residential business in Taunton, is set to celebrate 25 years with the company this year. “Since joining the company in 1992 I have seen many changes in the town and the agency industry, but one thing remains a constant and that is the popularity of Taunton. With excellent State and Private schools it is a desirable location for young families relocating from the south-east and also those looking to retire and enjoy the wonderful scenery that the County has to offer. Taunton has recently been given Garden Town status and this combined with the influx of people working at Hinkley Point power station will ensure this popularity continues”.

To find out how Humberts can help you in 2017 from a residential perspective (including Farms and Estates), call James Gray on 01823-288484 or from a Commercial standpoint (Retail, Offices, Industrial, Investments, Residential Development Land and Businesses for Sales) call Stephen Richards on 01823-331234.