Two Lismore men have launched an advisory book for the property market in which they replace the jargon of the real estate world with plain English. ‘PROPERTY: The 100 best ways to BUY AND SELL’ is a slim-sized, illustrated collection of wisdom and information garnered through experience by two Ken’s – Madden and Buggy. Report: Christy Parker

In their inaugural publication, estate agent Madden draws on his trade experience to impart his easy-to-follow advice. His partner-in-prose, ex-hotelier and restaurant owner Buggy brings a personal perspective from the other side of the counter and also provides humorous, hand-drawn illustrations to accompany each nugget of knowledge. “Most property books on market are very formal, in terms of layout and information, “ says Ken Madden. “We are presenting 100 tips and pieces of advice in a way that’s easy to understand and enjoyable to read. More importantly, I believe they can bring a good return to the reader.”

From a selling perspective, since entering the business in 2004, the Ken Madden -also a Lismore town councillor- has contemplated many simple, inexpensive initiatives that could enhance property or prove useful in negotiating terms with buyers. “For example, presentation is vital,” he says. “Its not always easy to present property in show house condition, especially if you have a young family or pets, but for a relatively small outlay you can make a huge difference by painting the front of the house, or putting down new carpet, or doing some landscaping. This will hasten a sale and increase the value simultaneously.”

Conversely, the book advises buyers that “ some sellers paint their homes in advance…..look out for paintwork that’s covering up damp patches.” Madden Ken considers the buyer’s perspective further: “There are many considerations. Know what you want –town or country, a modern or a ‘character’ dwelling, two or more bedrooms, etc, etc.” (One illustration in the book depicts a fox asking, pertinently, “Have you anything on a chicken estate?!”)

Furthermore, says the councillor-turned writer, “Look carefully at property and location and decide if it’s suitable for future needs, such as a home for a future family. Think of the running costs and ask if it is a modern, well-insulated house that perhaps has cost-saving features like pellet boilers or special glazing.”

He adds, “The administration aspect is important too. I’d advise securing the loan for a property from a bank in advance. You go up enormously in the seller’s mind if you can say definitely you have finance proven.”

Self-acclaimed, “the only property book of its type in the known world,” much of the direction given is purely common sense. Buying in an up-and-coming area, viewing property in various weather conditions, ventilating your house of cooking smells before potential buyers arrive, inquiring of local facilities and checking for quality finishes around baths and showers seems obvious enough. However, “people often forget the most obvious things when the emotions connected with buying or selling take over,” as Ken (Madden) observes.

Published by Book Republic, ‘PROPERTY: The 100 best ways to BUY AND SELL’ is an uplifting read even if one never has cause to flirt with the property market. Soon to be available nation wide, it is presently available locally in Lismore, from Eason’s in Dungarvan, on amazon.co.uk and at 100bestways.com. Price: €9.99