Ben Siggins Estate Agents Magazine Issue 1

www.bensiggins.co.uk

Lindsey

01622 524110

Ilze

ben@bensiggins.co.uk

Daniel

Ben

Matthew

Power of photography: Get the best price for your property!

+ Hot properties:

MARKET ANALYSIS:

LANDLORD FOCUS:

INVESTING IN BUY-TO-LET:

5 places where houses cost less to buy than rent

Our tips on how to deal with problem tenants

Still an attractive proposition for investors?

Why y Why you should use our conv conveyancing service

Conveyancing is

Conveyancing is what we do, it’s our specialist subject.

Last year we complete Last year we completed approximately 8,000 property transactions of all types. of all types.

We are con We are the largest conveyancing companythe in our arealargest and one of the largest the country. largest in the country.

Plus we have a veryin good working relationship with estate agent with your estate agent to progressyour your sale or purchase to a successful completion. completion.

Our service is fast and efficient whilst still maintaining the quality of our and Our service is fast customer service tocustomer you at all times. service to yo

We offer all our clients a dedicated personal conveyancer to handleclients your We offer all our transaction from start to finish and keep you informed from 24 hours a day, start transaction 7 days a week through our case tracking facility on the internet.

7 days a week through

For a quotation please either email us at quotes@ctwsolicitors.co.uk For plea or call the CTW New Businessa teamquotation on 020 8859 9297 or call the CT or visit our website www.ctwsolicitors.co.uk

or visit o

Our offices in Eltham, Dartford, Bromley and Maidstone Our offices in will be happy to help you move into your new home so call us today.

will be happy to help

CTW The Conveyancing Specialists !

CTW The

Welcome

Welcome...

to our bi-monthly brochure ere at Ben Siggins Estate Agents (Sales & Lettings), our aim is to provide you with the

H highest level of customer service. As a way of offering added value to our customers In this issue...

NEWS: Stay one step ahead with our bi-monthly round up of essential news and stories affecting the housing market today. Page 4 LANDLORD FOCUS: Know your rights and responsibilities when it comes to dealing with problem tenants. Page 6 VENDOR FOCUS: Ensure your property stands out amongst the rest by teaming up with an agent that knows the importance of good photography. Page 11 QUESTION TIME: Ben Siggins, Company Director, shares his secrets to success and outlines what sets his company apart from competitors. Page 14

– whether they be vendors, buyers, tenants or landlords – we are proud to launch our new bi-monthly magazine that brings to the fore some of the housing market’s most pressing issues and talking points. Also included in each edition will be a round up of essential market news, a quick Q&A with one of Kent’s most esteemed housing figures and an up-to-date preview of property listings.

In our inaugural issue, we discuss the importance of photography in property listings. They are the ultimate selling tool and can essentially make or break a sale. Here we highlight the dos and don’ts when it comes to marketing your property through imagery. Turn to page 11 for more information.

Elsewhere in this edition, we report on the issue of problem tenants. Sub-letting, anti-social behaviour and non-payment of rent – these can all cause sleepless nights for landlords.

Unfortunately, when it comes to the law, the landlord has very few rights, but there are ways to resolve these situations efficiently and professionally. Here, we share some top tips on how to conduct yourself and protect your asset. Turn to page 6 to learn more.

For more information on any of the issues featured within the magazine, or would like to discuss a listed property, please don’t hesitate to contact the office where a member of the team will be happy to help.

Ben Siggins Managing Director

RIGHT MOVE'S

No.1

LIVE LISTINGS: A glance at some of the hottest properties currently available through Ben Siggins Estate Agents (Sales & Lettings). Page 16

MAIDSTONE ESTATE AGENT BY LISTINGS FEB. 2016

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Designed to take the strain out of house hunting, bensiggins.co.uk is the go-to site for buying, selling and renting properties in Maidstone and the South East.  Property search with advanced filtering  Valuation request form  Local information  News, interviews & more

Don't forget, you can also follow us online, and see the latest properties first.

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Market Insight

NEWS

Stay one step ahead of the game with our bi-monthly round up of all the need-to-know stories affecting the housing market today, because knowledge is power!

Buy-to-let still an attractive proposition for investors ollowing an analysis of the market, Private Finance believes that buy-to-let remains an attractive investment in the immediate future. However, the broker has also warned that accessing finance will now be the biggest challenge for amateur landlords in the new market landscape.

Private Finance’s analysis takes several key factors into account including the reduction in higher rate tax relief, the stamp duty increase and the outlook for house prices and yields. The broker has also considered the impact of the European Mortgage Credit Derivative (MCD) and concluded that whilst these factors may have a negative impact, they are unlikely to dampen the market altogether.

Private Finance has applied its model to a typical buy-to-let situation in a typical commuter town. Its findings demonstrate that a potential 62% return on capital could be achievable, if the investment is held for a term

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of at least five years utilising a fixed rate mortgage at 3.6% for the duration which is currently available in today’s market.

Whilst a number of commentators have suggested that annual capital appreciation of as much as 5% is achievable in areas such as this, Simon Checkley, Managing Director of Private Finance has said that a buy-to-let still remains viable at a lower rate of appreciation.

Checkley says: “Of course, these figures assume the full extent of the tax relief reduction and stamp duty hike so the short term returns could look more attractive if you are able to take immediate action and complete a purchase before 1st April 2016 when the increased stamp duty will apply.”

Checkley continues: “We are not underestimating the impact of the loss of higher rate tax relief or the increase in stamp duty on the market. What we are saying is that they are not necessarily 'deal breakers'. Of course, there have been many protestations in recent

weeks from concerned landlords as a result of the planned tax changes.

“What is less commonly recognised is that there are still opportunities in this market if an investor makes a sound purchase subject to other underlying economic factors. Understandably, many landlords are claiming they will lose considerable sums of money as a result of these changes. However, this does beg the question of the true viability of their original investment.”

Checkley adds: “With regards to house prices versus yields, it can be difficult to make things work in London because house prices are such that yields remain relatively low. This obviously affects the amount of mortgage you can obtain and therefore the attractiveness of buy to let as a whole. However, a number of commuter towns by contrast are offering both the potential for capital growth as well as decent yields.”

Says: “If you can complete before 1st April, then property investment is still one of the best investments to be had, with rental yields in Maidstone achieving 5-6%. It's definitely more attractive than a savings account. If the stamp duty changes come in to play property investment won’t be as attractive, but it will still be better than most options you have with regards to investing your hard-earned.”

House price growth remains steady in January According to Nationwide house prices increased by 0.3% in January. Commenting on the figures, Robert Gardner, Nationwide's Chief Economist, said: “The pace of UK house price growth remained broadly stable during January. Indeed, annual house price growth has remained in a fairly narrow range between 3% and 5% since the summer of 2015. This trend was maintained in January, with house prices up 4.4% over the year, broadly in line with the 4.5% increase recorded in December.

As we look ahead, the risks are skewed towards a modest acceleration in house price growth, at least at the national level. The labour market appears to have significant forward momentum. Employment has continued to rise at a robust rate in recent months and, while the pace of earnings growth has slowed somewhat, in inflationadjusted terms regular wages continue to rise at a healthy pace.”

Available housing supply halves in 10 years The supply of available housing has almost halved in 10 years, according to the latest National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) December Housing Market report. The average number of properties available per member branch in December 2015 fell to 37 properties.

This is almost half the number available in December 2005 when there were an average of 72 houses per branch.

5 places where houses cost less to buy than rent The dream of home ownership remains alive for tens of thousands of first-time buyers, according to research that pinpoints 5 UK locations where average rent is at least £54 more than the cost of monthly mortgage payments.

An infographic produced by Property Division, an online property investment news hub, shows that first-time buyers in Glasgow could save £149 every month when compared with tenants in Scotland’s largest city. The analysis is based on asking prices and average rents of two-bedroom properties in each of the 5 locations: Glasgow, Dundee, Birmingham, Hull and Manchester. The calculations by property portal Zoopla assume purchasers are repaying a 90% mortgage over 25 years at 4.5%. Property Division CEO Nelly Berova comments: “It is significant that with the exception of Birmingham every location this research identifies is in the north of England or Scotland.”

Right to Rent checks come into force New rules that came into force last month will force landlords across the country to carry out Right to Rent checks on all prospective tenants. In a bid to tackle illegal immigration, Section

Finance in focus In a constantly-shifting market, we're here to help you stay abreast of the financial implications of new legislation, trends and opportunities...

Market Insight

22 of the Immigration Act 2014 states private landlords must ensure potential occupiers have the right to live in the UK. The new regulations state that landlords or letting agents who fail to carry out Right to Rent checks could face a fine up to £3000 or even a jail term. The rules do not just apply to landlords and letting agents.

Tenants in private accommodation will be expected to conduct Right to Rent checks themselves if they’re sub-letting part of the property. The good news, however, is the legislation is not retrospective. Existing occupiers who moved into a property before February do not need to have their immigration status examined.

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Says: “Fortunately, this forms part of every new tenant check that we carry out, so our landlords have nothing to worry about.”

Half of tenant subletting occurs behind landlords’ backs Almost half of tenants who sublet their property do so without their landlord’s consent, according to new findings from the National Landlord Association. Of the 11% of tenants who say they have sublet all or part of their property before, just 5% did so with their landlord’s permission. A quarter (26%) of tenants say they have approached their landlord about subletting but have had the request declined, and 63% say they have never asked their landlord about subletting their property.

Lack of stock causing unrealistic housing market Up to £530m available for landlords who let tenants decorate 43% of tenants would be happy to fork out an additional £149.52 a year, on average, according to a new survey of 1000 tenants by insurance provider Endsleigh. With two million private landlords letting out five million homes in the UK, that means there’s potentially an extra £530m in revenue out there for landlords who explicitly say they are happy for tenants to decorate.

Only 29% of tenants surveyed have the freedom to decorate their property as they wish; but with a quarter (25%) living in a rental property for more than three years, and one in five saying they would be ‘likely’ or ‘very likely’ to avoid inviting relatives round their home if they were embarrassed about the decor, it’s understandable that tenants want to decorate their homes.

House prices continue to rise across the UK, driven by an ongoing shortage of new properties coming on to the market, according to the latest RICS UK Residential Market Survey.

In November, 49% more chartered surveyors across the UK saw house prices rise, with prices increasing in all parts of the UK. Prices are rising at the fastest pace in East Anglia, the South East and the East Midlands.

Buy-to-let investors look to beat stamp duty hike The UK housing market has seen a rise in demand following the Government’s recent announcement that stamp duty is set to increase for buy-to-let investors, the latest survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has revealed.

From April, buy-to-let investors will be required to pay 3% more in stamp duty charges than residential buyers looking to purchase the same home.

Funding to tackle rogue landlords Councils in the UK are to get a £5m cash boost to tackle rogue landlords in their area, including raiding premises, it has been announced. Some 48 councils will share the funding so they can take on the irresponsible landlords that force tenants to live in squalid and dangerous properties, making their lives a misery. The cash will also allow councils to root out more ‘beds in sheds’.

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Landlord Focus

Dealing with problem tenants Becoming a landlord is financially rewarding, but it is not without its challenges.

Here, we give some top tips on how you should deal with problem tenants.

ll landlord experiences are different, as are the tenants. While some renters will treat your property as if it was their own, you will no doubt at some point encounter tenants who are not respectful of your property, their neighbours or the tenancy agreement itself. This brings us to our first tip – avoid having problem tenants in the first place.

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that you get a reference from their place of work as well as from a past landlord.

And finally, go with your gut. You will instinctively know whether a tenant is likely to respect your asset, but it’s good

to be sure by going through the correct screening procedures.

Professional conduct However stressed you may be feeling, remember that you are running a business so it is

Prevention is better than cure The best way to ensure a trouble-free letting is to thoroughly vet all prospective tenants beforehand. You may be anxious to let your property quickly, however it will pay in the long run to carry out all the necessary checks. In addition to the newly-enforced Right to Rent checks, it is worth getting an accurate record of their credit rating as well as up to date references. It is normally advised

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important to stay professional.

Keep communication honest and open, and avoid confrontation by being polite and courteous.

In the circumstance of problem tenants, it is advantageous to act quickly. Delaying correspondence could worsen the problem or antagonise a tenant further.

If your tenant is not adhering to the tenancy agreement, you will need to communicate clearly and firmly that it is a legal document and further action will be taken if they do not abide by it. With regard to payment of rent, try to get your tenant to pay their rent into your account by standing order from the offset. That way you have evidence of which payments you receive, and more importantly, which payments you don’t.

Keep records Avoid confrontation by being polite and courteous

Keep detailed records of all your communication with your tenants over the matter in question.

Crime in the rented sector

You will no doubt encounter tenants who are not respectful of your property

Privately-rented homes across the UK are being used as a smokescreen to grow cannabis in homemade ‘factories’ and produce the harmful drug crystal meth.

Prostitution is also found across the private-rented sector, with homes being used as brothels. Criminals are attracted to rented properties, often in quiet residential areas, as a base to operate without the fear of being disturbed.

Unfortunately, when such crimes take place, it is you as the landlord who ends up with the bill. Many insurance policies are rendered invalid when criminal activity takes place in a property and the damage caused can run into thousands of pounds irrespective of whether you knew what was taking place in the property.

Further, you can be criminally liable if you are aware that illegal activity is taking place and you do not report it to the police.

Landlords must remain vigilant of what is taking place in their properties and notify the relevant authorities should they suspect (or become aware of) illegal activity.

In a bid to beat criminal gangs, The National Landlords Association recommends that you don’t take rent up front.

Often criminals offer this as a way to ensure they are left alone. Check on the property regularly. This can be done at least quarterly and more regularly if there is cause for concerns.

However, you must ensure that you provide your tenants with sufficient notice (i.e 24 hours).

You may also want to contact the property’s neighbours as they can alert you to any suspicious activity. Finally, if you have a suspicion that criminal activity is taking place you should not confront your tenant. Go straight to the police.

Landlord Focus

Any requests, negotiations and agreements must be put in writing and be sure to keep dated copies. Should the matter remain unsettled and further legal action is needed, you will have evidence of your professional conduct and a record of your attempts to solve the problem quickly and efficiently.

Anti-social behaviour The prospect of being saddled with anti-social tenants is a daunting one for even the most experienced landlord.

It is important that you know what your rights are in respect of problem tenants and your responsibilities.

You should bear in mind that anti-social behaviour can cause damage to the property, impact on its value and damage relations with neighbours. It is therefore 

Keep detailed records of all your communication with your tenants

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Landlord Focus

Authority Environmental Health Departments, Local Authority Anti-Social Behaviour Teams, or the Police.

You, as the landlord, should be held responsible for the actions or behaviour of your tenants.

However, you have limited powers to tackle anti-social behaviour and therefore must rely on public bodies for enforcement action.

Leave it to the professionals

Anti-social behaviour can damage relations with neighbours

in every landlord’s best interest to address these issues if they arise.

The most common incidences of anti-social behaviour include loud music, shouting and other aggressive behaviour as well as property damage such as pulling doors off hinges or putting holes in walls.

There are a number of approaches you can take when faced with anti-social behaviour.

Preliminary measures can include addressing the matter with the tenant, in person or by letter, setting out the antisocial behaviour in question and asking them to remedy it. If the

behaviour persists, you should write to your tenant informing them that they are considering evicting them because of their behaviour.

If these measures fail, landlords can either evict the tenant or contact one of the following agencies: Local

It is extremely frustrating to experience problem tenants, and it can be difficult to not take their behaviour personally – after all, it is your investment at stake.

However, don’t let your frustration force you to overstep the mark. As a landlord, you don’t legally have the right to expel your tenants yourself, change the property’s locks or remove tenants or their possessions from your property.

If eviction is the only solution, seek advice from the National Landlords Association. They can offer guidance on the next steps to take. 

Story: Hannah Frackiewicz www.bensiggins.co.uk

Anti-social behaviour can cause damage to the property

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www.bensiggins.co.uk ben@bensiggins.co.uk

Y L T N E G R U ES PROPERTI

D E R I R E QU for sales & lettings

Contact us today quoting 'Reach Out Creative' to receive a 25% discount on selling or renting your property.

Offices in Maidstone (01622 ) 524110 and Gillingham (01634) 757070

Vendor Focus

The power of photography They say first impressions count – and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to the property market. Once your property is published online, it is available to thousands of potential buyers or tenants searching for their dream home. In such a competitive market, it is imperative that your property stands out.

The rear garden is a huge selling point so must be captured in the best light

Your advertisement needs to take prospective buyers on a virtual journey through your home

hotography doesn't just serve to showcase the features of the property – a floorplan and written details alone could serve that purpose – it takes viewers on a journey, allowing them to visualise themselves in your home.

To some extent, not only are prospective buyers or tenants buying into your home, they're also buying into the lifestyle portrayed by you as the existing occupants.

Most traditional high street estate agents will take photos of properties, unlike many online agents who tend to use the owners' photography. There is never a charge for taking standard photos, however some agents will charge for professional photography – this is usually paid upfront by the homeowner and will range from £199 to £499 plus VAT. Depending on the agent, the photographer may be outsourced. Alternatively, an inhouse employee from the agency will be sent to photograph the home. Remember, it is in the agent's best interest to sell/let your home and it is their job to do what it takes to present your

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property in the best possible light.

To portray your home's worth and to give it the greatest chance of attracting potential viewers, ensure that you are satisfied with the following:

Quality Blurry images, inadequate lighting, obstructions, dirty lenses; these are just some of the common factors that could detract potential buyers from 'clicking though' onto your advertised property. Both inside and out, your property's photographs need to advertise the essential unique selling points such as space and light.

If the photographs cannot portray these clearly because the person assigned to shoot your home cannot navigate a camera, does not have the right equipment such as lenses, Photoshop, Lightroom etc then you – and the agent – have an issue.

The photographer also has the responsibility to make your home appear marketable.

Neutral tones and a minimalist, tidy appearance can significantly enhance the viewer's 

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Vendor Focus

impressions of your property.

Reputable agents will take the time to stage your home to maximise its potential – so don't be alarmed if they start shuffling items around!

Quantity A recent report conducted by rightmove.co.uk found that, on average, properties with 2-4 images compared to one receive a 35% higher click through rate.

Bathrooms and kitchens are essential rooms to capture, as is the rear garden. 'Less is more' certainly does not apply in this instance. While plenty of images greatly enhance interest, be sure to also include a floorplan. Wide angle lenses, although beneficial to capture the full aspect of the room, can be deceptive to viewers. A floor layout with dimensions will give an accurate representation of the interior structure.

One final note is never allow your property to be listed without images. With hundreds of properties being listed every month, a property that has images pending is destined to be cast aside and will cost you a sale. Your property's description, location and price alone will not sell it for you, and it would be bad practice for your agent to

publish the listing without the full marketing package.

Order Interestingly, the order of your images can have a huge impact on the level of enquiries. As mentioned previously, viewers want to visualise themselves in your home. Therefore your advertisement needs to take prospective buyers on a virtual journey through your home, starting with the exterior then stepping inside into the main ground floor spaces, finishing upstairs.

A portfolio that lacks order can leave browsers feeling disorientated. An experienced agent will be aware of the importance of order and will ensure your listing tells a story.

Part of the service Understandably, many vendors would prefer a quick sale but it is worth noting that haste could compromise you attracting potential viewers. Take the time to speak with your agent about how best to proceed with photography and what you will be prepared to do to make your home appear more marketable.

At Ben Siggins Sales & Lettings, the company takes pride in the quality of images it publishes

Bathrooms and kitchens are essential rooms to capture

with each and every one of its listed properties. Professional photography is carried out at no extra charge by owner Ben Siggins, where he has been trained especially in this area. The company's hands-on approach to photography is testament to the service it offers its customers.

Neutral tones and a minimalist, tidy appearance can significantly enhance the viewer's impressions of your property

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Meticulous attention to detail complemented by a wealth of expertise is proving to generate great results, time and time again.

Visit www.bensiggins.co.uk to see for yourself. 

Story: Hannah Frackiewicz www.bensiggins.co.uk

Hartlip, Kent

For the full range of properties to buy or rent, visit bensiggins.co.uk

£950,000

The plot boasts an impressive five acres separated in to garden with two separate raised and sunken decks, with enclosed paddock and barn with its own power, light and water supply (potential to convert subject to relevant planning). This is a truly stunning 5 bedroom property with so much to offer and plenty of space for any family.

Fairview Avenue, Gillingham

£500,000

£800,000

This beautiful, luxurious, 5 bedroom family home is situated in a sought after location in close proximity to good schools and easy access to motorway links. This is a truly stunning property which rarely comes on to the market, with a viewing highly recommended to truly appreciate everything it has to offer.

Ref. 105506_25655880

Hatherall Road, Maidstone

Properties

Live Listings

Ref. 105506_25814773

Bearsted, Maidstone

£425,000

This fabulous, 4 bedroom home has been excellently extended to provide a spacious home for any couple or family. The garden is beautifully landscaped with a large grass and patio area, with no overlooking properties and the benefit of an over ground pool. It is a truly wonderful property and viewing is highly recommended to fully appreciate what it has to offer.

A very impressive, 4 bedroom, detached house in a quiet cul-de-sac in the sought after area of Bearsted. The separate lounge and dining room are light and airy and feel very spacious. The kitchen is beautifully fitted with a range of modern wall and base units. There are four double bedrooms, en suite to master, separate bathroom, gardens and garage.

Ref. 105506_25778454

Ref. 105506_26063244

Carisbrooke Drive, Maidstone

£400,000

This is a stunning detached 4 bedroom property which is perfect for the growing family or a couple particularly with its large range of storage areas. It boasts a bright, spacious lounge with sliding patio doors to the beautifully presented, enclosed rear garden. Within the lounge there is a dining area with an attractive, feature gas fireplace.

Ref. 105506_25798129

Hedley Street, Maidstone

£375,000

A beautiful, semi-detached, 4-bedroom family home in the centre of Maidstone within easy walking distance of the town centre and all its amenities, that has been renovated to a very high standard by the current owners. Offering accommodation over 3 floors, there is still the further option to create more accommodation in the basement.

Ref. 105506_25899598

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Q&A with Ben

Q&A with Ben After 12 years of successfully working for large estate agents, Ben Siggins decided to start his own independent branch in Maidstone.

Here, he shares his passion for the industry and describes what sets his business apart from competitors in the region.

Please provide some information on your professional background B: I started off in Macdonalds, where I got my 5 stars in record time for the South East! This gave me a passion for working with a team of people and with customers. From there I went into banking as a cashier for Halifax.

There I was promoted quickly to the Maidstone office for showing exceptional sales ability. I was then promoted again to become a mortgage advisor. I went on to become an independent broker for Bradford & Bingley. I then got a job as the youngest area manager for a subsidiary of Countrywide (the UK’s largest estate agent). It was here that I decided to start up on my own.

How did you come about starting up Ben Siggins Sales & Lettings?

B: After getting frustrated of selling houses for a large estate agent and seeing how I could make improvements to the business I decided to start up on my own. I did this because throughout my career, I was one of the highest performers. I knew I would be able to succeed in any sales environment but wanted to put clients as the top priority rather than my managers.

What is the secret to the company's success?

B: At Ben Siggins Sales & Lettings, we provide a top service, fantastic quality, fantastic sales people and offer it at the cheapest price possible.

The results are speaking for themselves. Overall the success of the business is down to the staff I employ. If you employ the very best people, you get the very best result, and they will always put the customer first which gets results.

What do you love most about working in the property sector?

B: I enjoy seeing lots of different types of properties and meeting lots of different people. The competitiveness of the industry also excites me and being able to achieve a better result than anyone else could for your client.

What would be your dream home?

B: My dream home would be rural, as I love the countryside.

A big kitchen diner with an inglenook fireplace in it and a real fire – I’ve always thought if you can have a real fire place in your kitchen then you’ve made it. Ideally I’d have no neighbours, so I can listen to music without bothering anyone. I would also

The property market in Kent is like nothing I have ever known.

Prices are strong and still increasing... The job market is good here, and confidence is high.

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love to have a play room for my daughter, so the toys would be confined to one room!

What has been your greatest sale?

B: The sale that sticks with me the most was one that I sold for a guy that lived in Chatham. He had hit bad times. He had lost his wife and daughter in a serious accident, started drinking which led to him losing his job, got

badly attacked and lost his sight and the drinking had caused problems psychologically. He was selling with another agent.

They had totally undersold his property to a well known investor.

The price achieved was easily £40k under what the property was worth. He was desperate for a quick sale as he was about to be repossessed. I took the property on and sold it for £40k more than what he would have

got through the other agent and dealt with the lender on his behalf to avoid the repossession. He came in about two months after we completed and said that he was really grateful and since helping him with that he had gained a bit more confidence and had started working again. When it comes to things like that, for me, it’s not about money. That really did make me feel good about myself.

What is your favourite area in Kent and why?

B: For the coast it would have to be Whistable with its array of restaurants and beaches.

Although, the countryside is more my thing, which is why I love Maidstone. We have some great little villages dotted around, access to East Sussex and some wonderful areas of countryside. Leeds Castle is on our doorstep, and Maidstone offers so much diversity in terms of wealth, houses, areas and most importantly, people.

What piece of advice would you give to a first time buyer, vendor and landlord?

B: I would advise first time buyers to remember your first home isn’t forever, it’s a start.

Don’t set your sights too high and be realistic. Vendors, I would advise that choosing your estate agent is the single most important part when achieving the best price for your property.

With regard to online estate agents, I would always ask if a computer can sell your home as well as the very best sales

person! Landlords, I would say invest in the right properties in the right areas and keep your houses in good order and clean.

Tenants are the most important part of your investment. Look after them and your investment will look after itself.

How would you summarise the property market in Kent?

B: The property market in Kent is like nothing I have ever known. Prices are strong and still increasing. There is still a shortage of stock which is leading to this.

The job market is good here and confidence is high. Along with record low interest rates and mortgages being approved at a good rate, Kent is hot property.

Do you have any forecasts for the property sector throughout 2016?

B: Since 1st Jan 2016 we are averaging 20 to 40 viewings per property. Properties are selling within weeks and we have taken offers on properties over the asking price from buyers that haven’t even viewed. To say it has gone crazy is an understatement. As an agent you have to be careful to try and not disappoint buyers, get the best price for vendors and make sure deals that are tied up stay together. Selling property in this market is not difficult, but achieving the very best price is where the skill comes in, along with making sure chains are strong and progression is carried out every single day. 

www.bensiggins.co.uk

We have some great little villages dotted around, access to East Sussex and wonderful countryside. Leeds Castle is on our doorstep, and Maidstone offers so much diversity in terms of wealth, houses, areas and most importantly, people.

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Properties

Live Listings

Lancet Lane, Maidstone

For the full range of properties to buy or rent, visit bensiggins.co.uk

£775,000

This stunning, 5 bedroom, detached property is a must for your viewing list. It has 5 large, double bedrooms, 4 bathrooms plus cloakroom, a spacious kitchen/diner, lounge and snug all in first class decorative order and is ready to move into. The annex, beautiful gardens and garage make this house a wonderful home for all the family.

Ditton, Aylesford

Ref. 105506_26086944

Chichester Mews, London

£600,000

Ben Siggins are delighted to offer to the market this stunning 3 bedroom home in a quite and secure Mews in a gated development in the sought after location of Norwood, London. This home consists of three bedrooms, the master with an en suite, a garden and conservatory and off road parking for one vehicle. The property also benefits from a modern fitted kitchen.

Ref. 105506_26049647

Bower Mount Road, Maidstone

£460,000

This substantial, detached 4 bedroom home is outstanding and has space for all members of the family to enjoy. The beautiful interior has been thoughtfully decorated and is ready to move into. Situated in a very sought after, cul de sac location close to a mainline station and the County town of Maidstone, with double garage and private front and rear gardens.

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£550,000

Are you looking for that perfect detached family home bursting with character and charm? This substantial period detached 4 bedroom home is outstanding, boasting character features throughout and has space for all members of the family to enjoy. Situated in a very sought after location close to a mainline station and the County town of Maidstone.

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Loose, Maidstone

£750,000

This substantial, detached, tudor style, 6 bedroom home is outstanding and has space for all the family to enjoy. The beautiful interior has been thoughtfully decorated and is ready to move into. Situated in a very sought after, cul de sac location close to a mainline station and the County town of Maidstone, with double garage and private front and rear gardens.

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Manor Lane, Rochester

£450,000

A Great opportunity for an investor or someone looking for a change in lifestyle. The boat is currently divided into four apartments which combined are achieving approximately £3300 PCM. The boat comprises of 4 accommodations with the potential to create 2 more apartments within the Bridge room and engine room Ref. 105506_26083456

Upper Fant Road, Maidstone

£325,000

DON'T MISS OUT!!! This substantial CHAIN FREE property which is being luxuriously refurbished will boast stunning and modern dcor. Offering accommodation over four floors, there are 3 double bedrooms, 1 with en suite. The renovations will be completed in time for the open day.

Live Listings

Fordwich Close, Maidstone

£290,000

£300,000

Ben Siggins is delighted to offer this impressive, 3 bedroom, semi detached house in a quiet location in the sought after area of Fordwich Close. This home has everything you could ask for including off road parking, garage and large rear garden and the open plan layout lends itself perfectly for family living.

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Chiddingstone Close, Maidstone

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Barming, Maidstone

£280,000

Ben Siggins is delighted to offer this impressive, 3 bedroom, semi detached house in a quiet location in the sought after area of Chiddingstone Close.

This home has everything you could ask for including off road parking, garage and large rear garden and the open plan layout lends itself perfectly for family living. Please call today to avoid disappointment.

This beautiful, 3 bedroom property is available to the over 55's and is complete with resident management staff, community alarm service and stair lift making it ideal for continued independent living. The house has been nicely decorated, with a modern fitted kitchen and bathroom and car parking close by. An early viewing is recommended.

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Tennison Way, Maidstone

£240,000

This immaculate, mid-terrace, three bedroom home is situated in a sought after development in Maidstone just 3.2 miles from Maidstone East station and the High Street, and is all ready to move into. It offers a fantastic living space for a family – with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, garden and off road parking.

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Properties

For the full range of properties to buy or rent, visit bensiggins.co.uk

St Andrews Park, Maidstone

£235,000

This exclusive, two bedroom apartment is situated in a stunning 1830s building and offers a spacious, modern home in an excellent location.

The apartment comprises of lounge, kitchen/diner, two bedrooms (master with ensuite) and bathroom. The lounge is extremely well sized and naturally well lit from the wonderful large, west facing windows.

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Properties

Live Listings

Portsdown Close, Maidstone

For the full range of properties to buy or rent, visit bensiggins.co.uk

£200,000

This 2 bedroom, semi-detached home is close to Maidstone town centre and train stations. With a spacious lounge/diner that has ample space for a large seating area and table and chairs, two good sized bedrooms and front and rear gardens it is a definite property for your viewing list.

Morrison Road, Folkestone

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Harrietsham, Maidstone

£200,000

Ben Siggins is delighted to offer this stunning 2 bedroom park home in a popular development in the Kent Countryside of Harrietsham, Maidstone. The property is presented to a high standard and needs to be at the top of your list. Please call for more details and book your viewing today to avoid disappointment!!

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Tovil, Maidstone

£190,000

This 4 bedroom, terraced house in an excellent location is a 1.1 mile walk from Chatham Train Station. Chatham offers a diverse range of properties and a comprehensive range of shops and amenities in and around the bustling town center. One of Chatham's standout features is the travel links, including mainline railway station, bus station and motorway links.

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£190,000

An extremely well-presented two bedroom duplex apartment, situated in the popular area of Rockwell Court, Maidstone. The accommodation comprises an entrance hallway with private front door, lounge/diner, modern fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms a cloakroom and a family bathroom. The property also benefits from an allocated parking space.

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Grove Road, Chatham

£200,000

Ben Siggins is delighted to offer to the market this beautiful newly renovated 4 bedroom home in the heart of Folkestone. The property has been recently refurbished and has been brought to the market in advance due to popular demand before completion. The property is set over three floors with four spacious rooms and a newly fitted bathroom area.

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Week Street, Maidstone

£180,000

This stunning development of 14 luxury apartments in Maidstone town centre are being sold off plan due to the high level of interest anticipated.

This two bedroom second floor spacious property has been developed to a luxury standard with beautifully fitted kitchen and bathrooms, large bedrooms, one with en suite and sizeable storage cupboards.

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Clifford Way, Maidstone

£168,000

This modern apartment is found in a popular riverside development and is offered with no onward chain. The property is within walking distance of Maidstone town centre. This is spacious accommodation with a superb large master bedroom, modern fitted kitchen and a lounge/ dining area which leads out to a large balcony overlooking the river.

Live Listings

Week Street, Maidstone

£160,000

This stunning development of 14 luxury apartments in Maidstone town centre are being sold off plan due to the high level of interest anticipated.

This two bedroom second floor spacious property has been developed to a luxury standard with beautifully fitted kitchen and bathrooms, large bedrooms, one with en suite and sizeable storage cupboards.

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Week Street, Maidstone

£150,000

This attractive, ground floor maisonette within easy reach of Maidstone town centre has become available for investment or as a home through Ben Siggins Estate Agent. It boasts 2 bedrooms, fitted kitchen, shower room, spacious lounge, garden and parking. Don't miss out, book a viewing today.

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£160,000

This stunning development of 14 luxury apartments in Maidstone town centre are being sold off plan due to the high level of interest anticipated.

This two bedroom second floor spacious property has been developed to a luxury standard with beautifully fitted kitchen and bathrooms, large bedrooms, one with en suite and sizeable storage cupboards.

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Roseholme, Maidstone

£165,000

This stunning development of 14 luxury apartments in Maidstone town centre are being sold off plan due to the high level of interest anticipated.

This two bedroom first floor spacious property has been developed to a luxury standard with beautifully fitted kitchen and bathrooms, large bedrooms, one with en suite and sizeable storage cupboards.

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Week Street, Maidstone

Properties

For the full range of properties to buy or rent, visit bensiggins.co.uk

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Week Street, Maidstone

£132,000

This stunning development of 14 luxury apartments in Maidstone town centre are being sold off plan due to the high level of interest anticipated. This 1 bedroom apartment has been developed to a luxury standard with beautifully fitted kitchen and bathrooms, large bedrooms, one with en suite and sizeable storage cupboards.

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Live Listings

Tonbridge Road, Maidstone

For the full range of properties to buy or rent, visit bensiggins.co.uk

£350,000

This traditional 1930's built, 4 bedroom, semi detached house in Maidstone is very well presented and boasts a spacious lounge with separate dining room, three bedrooms to the first floor and a master suite to the third floor. It also features a large, attractive rear garden and a garage with off road parking.

Trevor Drive, Maidstone

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Weavering, Maidstone

£340,000

This semi detached, 3 bedroom property with beautiful south facing garden and a variety of high standard 'extras' throughout would be perfect for any couple or family seeking an immaculately presented, modern home. The property also boasts a new kitchen with underfloor heating, and a large driveway with ample parking and garage.

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St. Catherines Road, Maidstone

£300,000

This extended semi-detached five bedroom home is delightfully presented to a high standard and is in the sought after Loose area of Maidstone. It is perfect for the larger family or for an extended family to live together. With its off road parking for three cars and good sized, long private garden, it is ready for a priority viewing.

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£340,000

This beautiful, semi detached house is in immaculate condition and is situated in a desirable development of Maidstone. The stunning kitchen/diner and 4 charming bedrooms with the amazing master on the second floor, 2 bathrooms, gardens and a garage make this home a very sought after property.

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Sutton Road, Maidstone

£350,000

Ben Siggins is delighted to offer this stunning 2 bedroom semidetached chalet bungalow to the market. The extensively renovated home with a large garden and garage is located in the sought after location of Trevor Drive and needs to be at the top of your list! Call today to avoid disappointment.

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Willington Street, Maidstone

£280,000

This stunning, newly refurbished family home with three bedrooms and modern fitted bathroom and kitchen has just been brought to the market. With its large front and back gardens and spacious interior this will make a fabulous family home for the discerning buyer and an internal viewing is highly recommended.

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