Property Today by Blackpool Gazette

A Gazette supplement

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Lap of luxury

Stunning detached home in a sought-after location â&#x20AC;&#x201C; page 20

Thursday, January 15, 2009

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An agent’s Teenage mess is a selling point view Justin Allitt, of Allitt Estate Agency, answers readers’ property questions I am moving house next week and haven’t informed utility companies yet. What shall do? A lot of people fail to do this. Tthe utility companies are used to it, and generally fairly good at sorting things out. The bad news is that it can take a while for them to get their act together. So the things to do are; 1: Go round on the day you leave and take meter readings. 2: Get copies of all your utility bills, and phone up the numbers on them, saying that you moved out on X date, that the meter reading you took when you moved out was Y, and that you would like final statements send to your new address Z. 3: It cash is tight, cancel any direct debits. Make sure you get the final bills, and then pay them by cheque, rather than running the risk of having your new and old bills hit your account in the same month. 4: Cancel any standing orders with your bank. If you have Internet banking, or phone banking, you'll probably be able to cancel these right now. If not, you'll have to face the horror that is the January bank queues. Remember it is far better to have the cash, and have the utility company chasing you for it, than to have them take too much, and be chasing them for a refund.

We recently moved house, and had a full building survey by a local surveyor. We did not have a signed agreement with the surveyor. Soon after we moved in, we discovered extensive woodworm in the garage. This was not pointed out in the survey, even though the surveyor did go into the garage and commented on areas where the woodworm is located. We wrote to the surveyor who wrote denying responsibility, without even revisiting the house. After numerous delays the surveyor wrote saying their insurance company denied responsibility. All we want to do is get the woodworm sorted out, what shall we do? Since you opted for a full building survey your surveyor owes you a high degree of care - so the failure to spot woodworm would appear to give you a cast-iron case against them. You are entitled to claim the difference between the price you paid for the property and the price you would have paid had you known about the defects. If your surveyor continues to deny responsibility, ask for details of the firm's complaints handling procedure. If they don't have such a procedure, contact the professional conduct team at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, who will ensure your complaint is handled correctly.

In association with Allitt Estate Agency Send your queries to Justin Allitt at 12 Wood Street, St Annes, or email stannes@allitt.co.uk

Don’t miss our great Lettings extra, pages 21-29

Property team

A TEENAGE boy’s bedroom is not normally considered a selling point for new homes. But one housebuilder says recreating the chaotic scene has helped it beat the property market downturn. Abel Homes, a family-run firm based near Thetford, Norfolk, decided to leave clothes, half-eaten food and rubbish strewn around one of its showhome bedrooms. While most developers opt for a minimalist approach, director Maggie Abel said the ploy had proved to be a hit with housebuyers. So far, six of the eight properties in their latest development, The

Dairy, in Old Catton, Norfolk, have been snapped up, a month after going on the market. “We thought if Tracey Emin could be shortlisted for the Turner Prize for an unmade bed, it could work for us as well,’’ said Mr Abel. “I’ve always found showhomes to be a bit bland and unreal so we wanted to add a bit of fun and realism. “It’s about making the houses more memorable, especially in the current market, and it seems to have worked.’’ She said a couple with a fivemonth-old daughter were due to move into the four-bedroom detached showhome tomorrow.

Market gets off to a good start THE property market has experienced a promising start to the New Year, which has seen a greatly increased number of potential buyers in the first two weeks of January. Reinforcing the findings of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors who report that “buying interest is now at levels not seen since 2006”, County Homesearch managing director Jonathan Haward said that UK residential housing was now seen as something of a bargain for anyone earning dollars or euros. “As well as indigenous interest, we have also witnessed a substantial increase in registrations from buyers across the world. With discounts of up to 40 per cent on some property due to last year’s price falls and some lenders offering best-buy mortgage rates of below four per cent, UK house prices currently look like a bargain to foreign buyers. “We have quite definitely seen an increase in buyer inquiries and as we are

residential focus: Entwistle Green focus: Farrell Heyworth housecall focus: place2let

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Editorial: 01253 400888 EDITOR : Steve Singleton 2244

right at the sharp end of any housing market transactions, we predict continued growth in buyer activity. “Buyers who have no need of a mortgage can rely on us to negotiate some very real bargains and even if house prices dip by another five to 10 per cent, we can see some excellent house price growth starting in 2010. In five years’ time, today’s buyer will be sitting on a substantial profit. “Potential buyers with cash in hand should be out to grab a property bargain,” continues Haward. The average number of transactions in the North West per surveyor fell by 17 per cent in December, yet new instructions rose significantly from one to 13 according to the RICS’ UK housing market survey, published this week. RICS NW spokesperson John Halman said: “During December the market reflected the gloomy reports which appeared on a daily basis with a general low level of activity and considerable apa-

thy with regard to housing purchase. “There has been a rise in the amount of traffic to property-related websites during December, with potential home buyers looking at the prices of property which are significantly lower than a year ago. “We have also detected an increase in activity from investors looking to buy into the market, with them feeling that a deposit of two or three per cent will give them a yield of around five per cent. “Whilst rising unemployment will inevitably continue to cause problems, we are hopeful that there are some signs of an increase in the number of transactions as we move into the spring. “We do however expect prices to continue to drift lower, albeit at a slower rate.” Jonathan Turpin, chief executive, Moveme.com: “With property prices falling faster at the bottom end of the market, this year will provide an ideal time for second time movers and those at the lower end of the ladder, to trade up.”

INSIDE focus: Headway focus: Letts Rent A Home auctions focus: Metcalfs focus: Duxburys

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commercial focus: Kenricks

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PROPERTY MANAGER: Alex Ioannou 2758 SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Michelle Disley 2735

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TELEPHONE SALES: Darren Stacey 2748 COPY PROCESSOR: Tracy McCormaic 2759

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Open for business

Agency opens a new office to give great Fylde coast coverage ENTWISTLE Green is delighted to announce the opening of their brand new office on Highfield Road, Blackpool, with an official open day on Saturday, January 31. This is the 25th office in the Entwistle Green network, which stretches all the way from Liverpool right across to Lancashire. The company which was first established in 1920 is already a well respected and leading name in estate agency on the Fylde Coast with branches in Cleveleys, Poulton, Lytham, St Annes and Topping Street, Blackpool. Branch manager of both the Blackpool offices, Darren Sellwood, says: “This is an exciting opening for Entwistle Green, and we feel this office provide the final piece of the jigsaw in being able to offer our clients the best and most extensive coverage of the Fylde coast. “No other local estate agent can offer homeowners and buyers this.” Working side by side with the sales team, are Entwistle Green Lettings (previously operating as SLM) led by Keren Martin and her team. “The office on Highfield Road now offers sales, lettings, surveying and professional services, conveyancing, homes abroad and mortgage advice all under one roof, making us

a one stop shop for ALL your property needs,” said Keren. “We offer a wealth of experience within the lettings industry and as part of Countrywide group, Entwistle Green Letting boasts a national network of over 200 offices.” Each and every branch within the Entwistle Green network is computer linked, which means that vendors have the opportunity to attract a greater number of potential buyers and purchasers have access to all of Entwistle Green properties that are available for sale. The new office in a prime location of South Shore, Blackpool, has easy access for both vendors and purchasers. Prominent window displays are the first thing you will notice when you enter the branch, followed by a friendly efficient service from the team who are eager to offer free advice on any aspect of buying, selling or lettings. Like every branch in the network, South Shore, Blackpool, will have a late night opening till 7pm on a Thursday, and feature on the Rightmove property website as well as their own website www.entwistlegreen.co.uk. With all this on offer you might suspect it comes at a cost, but Entwistle Green offer free market appraisals, and work

on a strictly no sale no fee basis. All the staff are commission paid, giving them a greater incentive to sell your home. As Entwistle Green is part of Countrywide plc, the largest estate agency in the UK with over 900 offices, they can also offer a range of other services such as exclusive mortgage deals through Countrywide Mortgage

Services, a conveyancing service and also overseas sales through Masa International. The open day starts at 11am, and the team invite everybody to come down and see the showroom, enjoy a drink and some food, view the properties available for sale and let, and get advice on how best to get you moving in the current market.

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Quality inside and out By JULIA BENNETT FROM the moment you drive up to this four bedroomed property youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be overwhelmed by the quality on offer. The stunning lounge, which features solid oak flooring, boasts a modern plasma flame effect fire, spotlights, LED lighting and pioneer plasma with KEF surround cinema system so you can enjoy the luxury of the latest technology at your fingertips. The beautiful dining room is ideal for entertaining guests, with a bay window to the front, corner window, solid oak flooring and log burner. Budding chefs will be happy perfecting their culinary skills in the kitchen which includes a range of wall and base units with complimentary worktops, sink and drainer with mixer tap. There is also a gas hob with

DETAILS Summary: Stunning detached home in sought-after location Address: Newton Drive, Blackpool Price: ÂŁ295,000 Agent: Entwistle Green, 32-36 Topping STreet, Blackpool (01253) 623511 extractor fan as well as an electric oven and space for a washing machine. A utility room also provides more space. Another room downstairs can be used as a study or a play room.

Now to upstairs where there are four bedrooms to suit all tastes. The master bedroom features wooden flooring and built in wardrobes. It also boasts ensuite facilities

including a bath, wc and wash basin. The main family bathroom is fully tiled and comprises a step in shower cubicle, wc and wash basin. There is also a heated towel rail. Storage space can be found in the loft area. Outside there are stunning gardens with plenty of space. The front garden features a stone paved driveway providing off street parking leading to a garage. There is a side garden which is part flagged and part stone chipped. The beautiful rear garden features a flagged patio which leads out to a wooden fence enclosed lawn. There is also a decked patio with LED lighting which would be a fabulous area to hold summer barbecues. Wildlife lovers will be in their element with a sunken pond and another pond with a water feature.

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Good year to rent out

Realistic rents and high quality properties are the way forward PLACE2LET would like to wish all their landlords and tenants a heartfelt happy and prosperous New Year. Last year saw a financial crisis never before seen in the banking history which affected the property market substantially especially with regards to selling property. Fortunately one of the few sectors in the property industry to ride through this financial upheaval was the rental market, which if anything became more stable and stronger through this uncertain period. Place2let acknowledges that at present there are slightly more properties available than there are tenants, but because of this landlords are becoming aware of the need to be competitive both in the quality of their houses and realistic in the rents they expect to receive. This kind of competition can only be good for tenants in that they have a greater choice and Place2let are seeing a vastly

improved standard of home. The New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s message therefore coming out of Place2let to landlords is that 2009 can be a very good year, regardless of all the negative opinions by financial and political commentators alike, as long as houses continue to be presented to a high standard and rents are kept at an realistic level. We are now in an extremely competitive market and with all such markets, it comes down to two basic principles which are quality and price of the product and in this particular case the Place2let product is houses. Place2let will always provide a honest opinion on what they feel a property will attain in rent and how it compares in standard to equivalent properties on the market. It is only then that they can achieve their aim of renting it out quickly and efficiently as possible for their landlords.

TOP TEAM: The property lettings staff at place2let on Highfield Road, Blackpool

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Flats for the modern era

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PLACE2LET have recently been given the unique rental opportunity of The Park, an award-winning building of new luxurious two/three bedroom apartments located on Hawes Side Lane, Blackpool, with prices starting from £120 per week. These apartments are what modern day living is all about, situated near to a local park, with the majority of the dwellings differing in design and all the properties affording that wonderful “never been lived in before” feeling. All come with new kitchens, bathrooms and carpets, an intercom system, sound proofing, car parking and in some cases the use of a lift. To launch this exciting rental opportunity of

such a prestigious development, Place2let is holding a special open day on Saturday and Sunday, January 17 and 18, between 11am and 3pm. There’s an open invitation to everyone to come down and visit the show apartments and enjoy some refreshments before taking a look at a selection of ground floor, first floor and second floor apartments available for rent. Anyone taking out the option to rent one of these fantastic apartments on this particular weekend will have the added incentive of a reduction in rent for the first six months of their tenancy. Telephone Place2let on 01253 408444.

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Now easier than ever to trade upmarket FALLING house prices have made it easier for people on the bottom rung of the property ladder to trade up. The price difference between the average onebedroom property and a two-bedroom house is now £31,000, the lowest level for five years and down from £41,500 12 months ago, says website propertyfinder.com. The group said the increased affordability had come about because the value of two-bedroom homes had fallen faster than any other property type, losing 11.92 per cent of their value during 2008, compared with a drop of eight per cent for one-bedroom homes. It is easier to trade up from a two-bedroom property to a three-bedroom one, with the cost of making the jump easing from £66,264 to £58,436, due to a 11.89 per cent reduction in the value of three-bedroom homes. But despite house price falls, it has become more

expensive to move up the property ladder to a fourbedroom home because larger properties have held their value better. The average cost of a four-bedroom home has dropped from £390,343 to £370,276 during the past year, but because the price of three-bedroom homes has fallen faster, the cost of trading up rose from £141,733 in 2007 to £151,235 last year. Nicholas Leeming, director of propertyfinder.com, said: “The real catalyst for house price falls has been a lack of mortgage availability, particularly for less credit-worthy borrowers. “This means the bottom end of the market has been more impacted by the slow down and prices there have fallen more rapidly. “People higher up the ladder find it easier to gain access to finance in order to move, but because of this the price of four bed properties has only fallen five per cent.’’

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Agents beef up their website IT’S estimated that at least four out of five people searching for property begin their search on the internet. There’s no question that online presentation of property has become more significant over the past five years. A property well-presented on-line can make the difference to the number of viewings, and thus the speed at which the property sells. Knowing this, Farrell Heyworth, the North West’s largest family-run estate agents with branches in Blackpool, Cleveleys, Garstang, Poulton and St Annes has significantly invested in their website. Using the same technology as BBC Online, Farrell Heyworth has created their own new property search tool to present properties in the best way possible. Farrell Heyworth group director Chris Heyworth. said: “In this difficult and challenging property market it is important to make sure your property stands out from all the others.

“The aim of the tool was to present our properties in a clear, consistent fashion so that the viewer can get to the key facts quickly. “We wanted to make it easy to search

sales and lettings properties listed with Farrell Heyworth, and provide easy to read information. This demonstrates Farrell Heyworth go the extra mile for our vendors and landlords." The site was developed by Farrell Heyworth's in-house development team, who provide a key role in keeping the group ahead of other estate agencies. “For instance, we offer a keyword search, something not available on property portals like Rightmove. So you are looking for a specific feature, like ‘Large Garden’, then you can quickly narrow down your search,” Chris added. Farrell Heyworth says this is the first step in a number of enhancements to the property search facility on their site. The aim is to create a “Locally Located” site, where information on property and its locality can be found in an easy to use and easy-to-read manner. The new search tool is due to be released this month; please visit www.farrellheyworth.co.uk

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Letting agents you can trust MOST landlords will know the benefits of using an agent who is a member of ARLA. The Association of Residential Letting Agents provides full client protection for their landlords and tenants alike. With so many new names appearing in local newspapers and “To Let” boards appearing almost daily, it’s important to be sure that your interests are looked after and that you have protection for your property and rental monies. Letting specialists HeadWay’s own managing director is a Fellow of ARLA who will ensure you will have the very best service an agent can provide along with the assurances of a professional company dealing with your rentals. As a company whose aim is to provide the highest standards in letting, HeadWay strive to continually improve both the service and standards that they offer. They advertise all their available properties on Propertyfinder.com – one of the largest property portals that the internet can offer, which inte-

grates with their own interactive web-site and software. Their website www.headway.uk.net contains information for landlords as well as an up-to-date list of properties. All new instructions are added to both sites within 24 hours with photographs, full information and location maps to make it easy to find properties. They also advertise in the local newspapers and magazines along with other relevant media. HeadWay are currently waiting to upload their property portfolio to propertylive. co.uk. This is ARLA’s own new internet portal which has been produced with the National Federation of Property Professionals and will no doubt prove to become one of the most extensive internet advertising sites and which will be available only to professional agents. Most landlords will be aware of the legal requirements regarding the letting of properties. Current regulations require many criteria to be fulfilled, some even before the property can be advertised.

HeadWay have produced the platinum service to provide landlords with the peace of mind to know that all the legal requirements and more are taken care of and that they have a rent guarantee and legal insurance cover in place. Please contact the office for further details. Why not contact HeadWay and discuss your requirements? They will do their utmost to provide both landlords and tenants with the very best possible service standards. They operate a no let – no fee policy and their commissions are deducted from rental income. That also means you pay nothing until a tenant is found for your property. Other benefits include no administration charges for applications, free Valuations, out of hours appointments, free management transfers Call HeadWay today to arrange an appointment. It is a letting specialists, not an estate agent Contacts: 01253 857001, 0845 257 5715 (local rate), 07812825250 (mobile), headwaypm@aol.com (e-mail), www.headway.uk.net

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Perfect for property

One of the Fylde Coast’s leading letting agents LETTS RENT-A-HOME have experienced an exciting growth over the past year and now see themselves as being one of the leading letting agents and property managers across the Fylde Coast. They pride themselves on providing a courteous and professional service for both landlords and tenants. The company markets properties all the way across the Fylde Coast (from Fleetwood to Lytham) and currently extends as far inland as Blackburn. Glenn Priestley, (main picture) the proprietor, has been involved in property letting since 1989. Assistant lettings manager Pauline Senior, joined Letts Rent-A-Home almost

two years with previous experience in lettings and sales and Paulina Zurakowska (below) has looked after the Polish lettings community for nearly a year. Landlords are urgently required by Letts Rent-AHome who have no shortage of tenants.

Key points for landlords include:

● No Let - No Fee ● Free no-obligation rental valuation ● Competitive rates ● Discounts available for landlords with multi properties ● Let-only service available ● Friendly and professional service ● 24-hour service, 365 days a year

● Rent guarantees available ● All tenants thoroughly vetted

Widespread advertising

All their properties are listed on the nationally acclaimed Rightmove, Propertyfinder.com and Thinkproperty.com websites and they feature prominently as the main sponsor of the Yell.com lettings website for the Preston Directory. Further advertising is to be found in BT –

The Phone Book, Yellow Pages and local property newspapers. They attribute much of their rising success to the production and airing of an “annoyingly memorable” jingle accompanying their advert on Radio Wave. For a no-obligation free valuation and to find out about their competitive rates, please call 08456 12 12 10 or e-mail letts-rent-ahome@blueyonder.co.uk Dedicated Polish line: 08456 25 06 06

interiors

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Furniture from Manchesterbased furnishing store, Housing Units

Banksia fabric £16, Nikki Snuggler £795, Retro Spot cushion £28, Shadow Flower cushion £25. from John Lewis HOME becomes an extra special place when we’re feeling battered and bruised by the outside world. There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, comfortable refuge where we can take comfort from our surroundings and instantly relax. So it’s no surprise that all the trends for 2009 focus on designs and styles that will turn rooms into calm, peaceful spaces that will restore our spirits. Designs for fabrics and furnishings are inspired by the countryside, using both its shape and its soft, rich colours and hues, which are well complemented by natural ‘touch me’ materials like wood, stone and leather, and beautiful fabrics such as silk, velvet and pure wool. If your New Year resolution was to create a ‘Home Sweet Home’, that means aiming for quality, craftsmanship and a ‘less is more’ approach. It’s preferable to take the time to choose one cushion you truly like and will cherish rather than splurging on six cheap ones on a whim, or saving for a hand-crafted piece that has ‘a story’ and brings personality to a room. Julie Miller-Sensini, head of home buying for House of Fraser, says the boutique look is going to be big in both interiors and fashion. “This means an emphasis on an individual look rather than following the crowd,’’ she says. “Luxury, femininity, and attention to detail will be the watchwords for 2009.’’ We’ve asked other experts for their top trends tips for the year.

OLD & NEW Variety is key, advises Fionnuala Johnston, design manager for B&Q. She says traditional and contemporary styles can sit beside each other in today’s rooms. “A modern sideboard, maybe from the 70s, could contrast well more period pieces or vice versa, an antique chest or table in a room that’s bright spanking modern. There are no hard and fast rules any more – it’s about creating rooms with pieces that you love,’’ she says. Colour’s back, but because we’re becoming more confident about using it, the trend is for sophisticated mixes. However, there’s still a place for a vibrant piece to inject surprise into a room. HER TIP: “Cool neutrals are overtaking traditional warm neutrals, to bring a safe colour option up to date. So tones of grey will be key. A room from The Vintage “Florals – from Wilson stylised graphic prints to handdrawn and 18th century etched prints – are big news in 2009, with subtle colour palettes of soft lilac, deep mauves and others such as pinks, aubergine and petrol blues.’’

ELEGANCE AND ROMANCE Cosy, romantic rooms with a dash of luxury will be the trendy mix for 2009, according to Judith Wilson, interiors writer and author of The Vintage Home (Jacqui Small, £12.99). “Aside from the vintage mixed look, there’s definitely a mood towards grown-up, elegant manicured interiors with eye catching details

Calmness is the key like a sparkling chandelier or a maybe a stainless steel cocktail cabinet,’’ she says. “This is a modern take on 1930s elegance, but to ensure it doesn’t look staid and dull it needs to include flashes of colour like yellow or hot pink, not just neutrals.’’ HER TIP: Don’t try too hard in rooms. It’s better to opt for slightly shabby retro pieces, like a G-plan sofa or dining set than a hugely expensive designer piece. Avoid mass-produced accessories - look for organic, Fairtrade or handmade products instead.

Home, by Judith influence on our homes, predicts Mockie Harrison, design manager of John Lewis’ home range. “As an incurable gardener, all the natural influences that go into this season’s hot trends are very

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN Nature will be a key

close to my heart,’’ she says. “Delicate silhouettes of branches, leaves and insect motifs will play a major role in designs, and embossed fabrics and applique are in for a revival. “But do also look out for soft rippling shapes reflecting the ocean – these will be seen in pattern, on wood grain and in sculptured items like bowls and vases.’’ HER TIP: Greens - so popular last year - will take on a fresh yellow hue for spring. Raspberry and mint green paired together is a winning combination, while grey is the all-important neutral.

FLY THE FLAG Celebrating British designers and products will be a marked trend, according to Nick Fox, director of Manchester-based furnishing store Housing Units. “There’s also a growing demand for homegrown design and styles – some people know they want to go for British-design, while others are just starting to recognise what fabulous talent we have in the interior market. “The finest quality hand-made furniture will be sought after and something like the Florence Sofa is a prime example of British quality and style.’’ HIS TIP: Watch for a definite move away from leather and into fabrics, and a look that’s “about understated luxury, relying on texture and quality to speak for itself’’.

Birch Silver Wallpaper, £18 per roll, Cream coatstand £99, Elton unit £275 from John Lewis

ECO-FRIENDLY HAVENS

Increasing awareness that the world’s natural resources are dwindling will trigger even more of a ● B&Q: 0845 850 0175/www.diy.com trend for eco sensi● British Interior Design Association: 020 7349 tive fabrics and 0800/www.bida.org materials, says ● Housing Units: www.housingunits.co.uk James Charles, a ● House of Fraser: 0870 160 7270/www.houseofmember of the fraser.co.uk British Interior Design Association. ● John Lewis: 0845 6049 049/www.johnlewis.com “This will tran● MyDeco: www.mydeco.com scend into furnish-

TREND SPOTS

ings that will exhibit a more natural look and feel. Raw materials will be mixed to create a contrast in texture and look, with stone, metal, wood and even concrete featuring heavily,’’ he says. “Glass will also be big, with ornate features inspired by classical design.’’ HIS TIP: Beige, white and grey will form a base palette, with hints of gold, pastels, brights and berry colours.

MIRROR & GLITTER

Mirrors and metallics such as gold wallpaper will make our rooms look luxurious, according to Annie Deakin, acting editor at MyDeco.com. “In these cash strapped times of ‘don’t move, improve’ mirrors are a fantastic way of adding another dimension to a room to add light and the illusion of space,’’ she says. “Last year mirrors were the most soughtafter home product, and we believe this trend will continue with a demand for mirrored furniture. Wallpaper in shiny, metallic finishes also adds dazzle to rooms.’’ HER TIP: Traditional craft will boom, with one-off products, limited editions and art becoming essential in stylish rooms.

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www.propertytoday.co.uk METCALF’S were established in the 1960s and during their long reign as one of Blackpool’s most popular independent estate agents they have witnessed many ups and downs in the property market. Through their years of experience they have found that during difficult times auction sales always come out on top. Director, Hamze Ballout says: “In the current climate we are finding that auctions are the way to sell property. “Due to the credit crunch a lot of estate agents are struggling but at Metcalf’s we are as busy as always, attracting a lot of clients who are ready and willing to buy at auction.” In 2008 Metcalf’s had a very successful year, selling over 50 per cent of their auction properties and are now looking forward to the year ahead. If you are thinking of selling by auction but are not sure if it is the right path for you, below are some answers to Metcalf’s most commonly asked questions: FAQs about auction: ■ How much? Metcalf’s commission for selling at auction is 2 per cent + VAT and they have a competitive auction entry fee of £300 + VAT. ■ Why auction? It offers maximum advertising for your property and a quick secure sale to a buyer who has the funds available and is ready to exchange. ■ How long? Once contracts have been signed it takes 28 days for completion. ■ What happens if the property doesn’t sell? Metcalf’s usually

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Auction success

■ What is the first step? You would need to book a valuation. They are free of charge and you are under no obligation to sell your property with them. ■ Can the buyer pull out of the sale? Once the buyer has signed the contract and paid the 10 per cent deposit they are committed to the sale. If they pull out for any reason they will forfeit their deposit and could face legal action from the seller. ■ Will there be a reserve on the property? Yes. However this is usually discussed nearer the auction. The property will be advertised with a guide price. The reserve is confidential between Metcalf’s and the seller. Entries are now being taken for the March auction so don’t miss the deadline, guarantee your property a place and enter before February 13.

BUSY TIMES: Metcalf’s director Hamze Ballout get post sale interest. However, if this isn’t the case then there are three options: 1. You can withdraw the property.

2. You can put the property for sale on the normal market. 3. You can put it into their next auction for half price (£150 + VAT)

■ How frequent are they? Metcalf’s are holding seven auctions this year and they take place approximately every two months.

If you want to book a free valuation or if you have any further questions regarding auction you can call Metcalf’s on 01253 624047, or pop in and see them at 73 Topping Street, Blackpool. There has never been a better time to consider auctioning your property and seeing it sold!

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Don’t fall foul of energy law DID you prepare for January 4, 2009? If not, contact Duxbury’s Commercial today for commercial (non-domestic) EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates) at competitive rates. As from January 4, 2009 ALL commercial properties being marketed for sale or lease require an EPC (excluding exempt buildings). Duxbury’s provide: ■ North West coverage ■ Fast turnaround ■ Expert Advice ■ BRE Government approved accreditation Duxbury’s Commercial is a member of the RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) and NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents). To arrange an EPC or for a quick

discussion on the legislation contact Adam Taylor, who is qualified to undertake the inspection and checks to issue an EPC or the agency department on 01253 316919. Why are energy performance certificates required? An Energy Performance Certificate is intended to inform potential tenants or purchasers about the energy performance of the building. This is so that the incoming occupier or owner can consider the energy efficiency as part of their business decision or investment. The EPC will provide an energy rating for a building which takes into account the fabric of the building itself and its services (for example lighting, heating and ventilation). The rating given to the building reflects the specific performance of the building compared with a

benchmark used to make comparisons. The EPC is accompanied with a recommendation report that suggests ways in which the energy performance of the building could be enhanced, aided with an indication of a payback period. Are there penalties for not having an EPC? The penalty for failing to make an EPC available to any prospective tenant or purchaser, when marketing a commercial building for lease or sale is in most cases 12.5 per cent of the rateable value of the building (there is a default penalty of £750 where this formula cannot be applied). The range of penalties is set with a minimum of £500 and maximum of £5,000. It is understood that an EPC will also be required and requested.

PROPERTY EXPERT: Adam Taylor is qualified to undertake energy inspections

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Thursday, January 15, 2009 property today

Selling your business is our business

KENRICK & CO of Church Street, Blackpool have been helping clients realise their needs for over 23 years. With a wide range of commercial properties on their register including hotels, flats, shops, cafes, restaurants, rest homes, offices and investment properties, the company advertises nationally every week of the year, as over 80 per cent of sales are still achieved through “out of town” buyers. Paul Crossley, managing director said: “2008 has been a difficult year for all estate agents up and down the country. “Since the start of the New Year there has been an increase in inquiries and although it is too early to predict, I am confident that the market will pick up in 2009.” Kenrick & Co are still getting visitors to their showroom. Internet and telephone inquiries represent a high proportion of all their inquiries. All commercial properties for sale are displayed in their showroom and Kenrick’s friendly and experienced staff are there to give as much help as possible. The company gives a service they consider second to none and

offer the following: ■ No sale – no fee: If Kenrick & Co don’t sell your property then you have nothing to pay ■ Free advertising both locally and nationally: Many commercial estate agents request an up front fee towards their costs – they don’t ■ They guarantee if you sell your commercial property through Kenrick & Co they will advertise your business nationally on Daltons Business.Com and on their Kenrick & Co website ■ Accompanied viewings where possible ■ Every property is inspected ■ Open six days a week ■ Help to arrange finance if required If you are considering selling your business then why not give Kenrick & Co a call for a free noobligation valuation. Nobody sells more commercial property in Blackpool than Kenrick & Co

MARKET CONFIDENCE: Paul Crossley, managing director of Kenrick’s

Thursday, January 15, 2009

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Thursday, January 15, 2009

property focus

property today Thursday, January 15, 2009

Beautiful gardens Clifton Avenue, Blackpool

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Character and charm

£219,950

A most charming detached family home with accomodation comprising: Hallway, lounge, dining room, breakfast kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a separate wc. There is off road parking, a double garage and beautiful garden areas. The property is also double glazed and has gas central heating.

Farrel Heyworth (01253) 341000

£239,950

West Drive, Cleveleys

A traditional semi detached house retaining many original features and offering character and charm throughout. Briefly comprising; hall, lounge, dining room with french doors to the garden, modern kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom and wc. A driveway leads to a garage and there is a superb mature rear garden offering a good degree of privacy.

Allitt (01253) 863030

Find your dream home

Extended and upgraded St Annes Road, South Shore

£242,950

This semi detached property has been extended and upgraded to a high standard. There is a porch, hallway, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility/study, five bedrooms and a bathroom. To the front there is a parking area and to the rear, a landscaped garden with a decked patio.

McDonald (01253) 403000

Six bedroom detached Hardhorn Road, Poulton

£999,995

A detached family residence offering flexible accomodation for the modern lifestyle. Set over three floors, the accomodation comprises: hallway with bespoke staircase and galleried landing, two reception rooms, kitchen, utility room, wc and six bedrooms, four with with en-suite facilities.

Royle (01253) 894895