Property Today by Blackpool Gazette

A Gazette supplement

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Beamed beauty

Cottage living â&#x20AC;&#x201C; page 15

property today

news

Thursday, February 5, 2009

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An agent’s New homes a third of target view Justin Allitt, of Allitt Estate Agency, answers readers’ property questions HELP! We are moving house - we have four kids and a dog and so much stuff. I have organised for the Salvation Army to collect our old furniture and for professional cleaners to come after we have cleared out of the house - but how do I pack all the stuff and sort it? What is a good way to do it? Where do I get all the boxes and stuff? You start collecting newspapers and boxes the moment you are thinking about it. Most removal companies will sell/hire you boxes to pack your stuff in. If you are moving yourself, you can buy boxes from movers, storage places and some couriers. Basically, you pack like with like. It is a good time to sort your things out, but do not pack too much into a box as someone has to lift it, usually 20kg max. Use items like pillows, cushions, towels to fill up the boxes with plates etc to keep the weight down. Crockery is generally wrapped in layers of paper individually, stuff cups with paper then wrap and plates stack from the bottom the up. We have usually done it horizontally, bowls, pad with scrunched up newspaper balls, cups on the side with lots of padding. Seal all boxes with packing tape. Make sure you seal the bottom first before you put anything in it and make sure you carry boxes underneath, not on their sides. Clearly label contents of each box, pack towels, sheets, loosely inside plastic shopping bags to help keep them clean inside boxes and start packing early with the things you use least. If necessary, plan the last week’s menu to require the least cooking so you can get 99 per cent of cookery related stuff packed. If your fridge or freezer is iced up, do not forget to turn it off a couple of days or more beforehand to allow it to de-ice. Pack everything by rooms; label all sides of the boxes as to what room it goes in.

What is Blackpool’s Care and Repair scheme? Blackpool Care & Repair provide a wide range of services to older and disabled residents in Blackpool, aimed at helping you to live independently in your own home in comfort, warmth and security. The Care & Repair Scheme can offer help to: ● Anyone over 60 living in their own home. Privately rented tenants and in some cases council tenants can also benefit from some of our services. ● Anyone under 60 years of age living in their own home who is getting income Support AND Disability Living Allowance Care & Repair may be able to help you access financial assistance in the form of a small grant or loan to help you to solve your home repair problems.

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

THE number of new homes to be completed in the coming 12 months could be around 80,000 – less than half the level of recent years. The estimated figure will be barely a third of the target set by Gordon Brown when he called for an extra three million new homes by 2020, says a new survey. The latest Housing Market Report (HMR) from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) which represents most developers, also warns it is no longer viable to build on many sites because so many regulations, including energy saving requirements, could push up costs beyond a level which buyers will pay. The HMR says: “By mid-2007, policy and regulatory demands were having such an onerous impact on land values that many sites were not viable.

“It is now clear that apartment building (in urban centres) in many locations were excessive,’’ says the HMR, “while the supply of family housing was inadequate. The housing mix and densities that evolved in the boom are unlikely to be appropriate in the next upswing. “Builders are going to be far more focussed on a product mix and densities which accurately meet local demand.’’ John Stewart says builders bounced back from the last big slump in 1992- partly because the regulatory framework was much lighter. This time, he suggests, local authorities might have a key role to play in breaking the deadlock - by adjusting agreements which compel builders to contribute towards public infrastructure projects in return for planning permission.

price of £250,000 requiring a £50,000 deposit. “Parents should use a solicitor to draw up a loan agreement with their child before lending this kind of money. “Whilst their family are unlikely to run away with the money, life can get more complicated when children look to set up home with their partners or

decide to get married. “If things go wrong and the couple decide to separate, the parents could lose out.” Paul Marsh adds: “There are several issues to consider in these circumstances. The position of the loan should be covered in the parents’ will, particularly if there are several children in the family. “There are important tax issues to bear in mind and in most cases it will be necessary to tell any bank or building society lending on the property about the loan.” Before handing over your life savings, it is crucial to obtain expert legal advice in order to avoid potential problems and to protect your best interests at every step. Solicitors are trained experts and are highly experienced in navigating the maze of paper work and dealings with house purchases. Not only will a solicitor offer the best advice and service, they will help to avoid some unforeseen hazards that my occur down the line.

Get legal advice on parent loans THE Law Society is warning benevolent parents to seek advice from a solicitor before stumping up tens of thousands of pounds to get their offspring on the property ladder. With first-time buyers finding it increasingly difficult to enter the property market, as banks are lending less and demanding 20 to 40 per cent deposits, parents are stepping in to help. Almost eight out of 10 firsttime buyers in London are being forced to ask their parents to step in and help with finance for deposits as loan options disappear, according to the latest research. The Law Society is warning that parents who are stumping up extra cash to help their family members to get their foot on the housing ladder must consider the legal aspects and seek advice from a solicitor to protect their own interests. Law Society President Paul Marsh said: “Despite the fact house prices have fallen almost 15 per cent in the past year, first time buyers are facing an average house

residential agents 3-18 housecall focus: Metcalf’s

Property team

“However, the escalating additional burden planned for the next eight years - zero carbon, Community Infrastructure Levy, Lifetime Homes, revisions to six Building Regulations – set against the sharp fall in land values in the slump, mean very few residential development sites will be viable. “A recovery in housebuilding will require the cumulative burden to be drastically reduced, either by finding alternative sources of funding for policy demands, or by delaying and scaling back many of these burdens.’’ The HMR, compiled by HBF Economic Director John Stewart, says net new home prices, allowing for perks and incentives have been falling for 15 months. It also admits many new homes built in the boom years are the wrong sort and in the wrong place!

Editorial: 01253 400888 EDITOR : Steve Singleton 2244

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INSIDE

19-29

lettings

focus: PDM lettings

focus: McDonalds

26 focus: place2Let new developments 30-31 focus: Baxter Homes 31 property focus 32

Advertising: 01253 361810 SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Michelle Disley 2735 TELEPHONE SALES: Darren Stacey 2748

COPY PROCESSOR: Tracy McCormaic 2759

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house call

Thursday, February 5, 2009

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Cottage has character By JULIA BENNETT BEAMED ceilings are a feature of this lovely two-bedroomed cottage of immense character. Situated close to Blackpoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stanley Park and close to bus routes and a main road, the white-fronted property comprises a large lounge which doubles as a dining room, double glazed conservatory, fitted kitchen, two bedrooms and a shower room. The spacious and comfortable lounge has a traditional cottage feel, with a wooden beamed ceiling. The room boasts a living flame fire in attractive surround. There is a TV plinth, central heating radiator, plus double glazed French doors which lead to the rear garden.

DETAILS Summary: Traditional two bedroomed cottage Address: Preston Old Road, Marton Price: ÂŁ159,950 Agent: Oystons, Clifton Street, Blackpool, (01253) 622225 The neat kitchen has a one and a half bowl sink unit. Fitted wall and base units, tiled floor and central heating radiator. There is plenty of storage space and room

for cooking, as well as space for a small table and appliances. Looking out onto the rear garden is a double glazed conservatory with a tiled floor.

Stairs and landing lead to two bedrooms. The main bedroom has built in wardrobes, dressing table, beamed ceilings, central heating radiator,and double glazed window. A second bedroom also has built in wardrobes, central heating radiator and double glazed window. There is a half tiled shower room with low flush toilet, pedestal wash hand basin, step in tiled shower, double glazed window. The conservatory gives the property additional downstairs living space and provides a contrast with the low beamed ceiling of the lounge diner. The extension features a tiled floor. The property has a garage opposite the Boars Head pub. It is fitted with gas central heating and double glazing and there are gardens, to the front, side and rear.

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MILESTONE: At the opening of new premises on Topping Street last year are sales negotiator Ashley Dribben, Mayoress Ms Julia Massey, Mayor Coun Mary Smith, director Hamze Ballout and principal John Metcalf

Auctions defy slump

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 Metcalfs 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:

Frequent questions about auction ● How much? Metcalf’s commission for selling at auction is two per cent + VAT (minimum £1,500) 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? They usually 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 our next auction for half price (£150 + VAT) ● How frequent are they? Metcalf’s is holding seven auctions this year and they take place approximately every two months. ● 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 Metcalf’s. ● 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. 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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www.propertytoday.co.uk PDM LETTINGS, the friendly and professional letting agent serving the Fylde coast and beyond from their modern St Annes and Freckleton offices, are pleased to announce special offers to assist landlords during the current financial crisis.

Offer 1 PDM Lettings fully-managed service is available to all properties with a PR postcode for only eight per cent per month.

Offer 2 Free Energy Performance Certificate and Bond Holding for all properties with an FY postcode.

Offer 3 Available for properties in all areas. Transfer your properties to PDM Lettings from any other agent and they will reduce your monthly commission payments.

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Thursday, February 5, 2009 property today

Helping landlords through recession

Offer 4 Guarantee your monthly rental payments with their low cost rent guarantee insurance from only £50 for six months. This guarantees that should your tenant not pay the rent, you will still get paid through the insurance company. ■ All offers are subject to terms and conditions and are available immediately. PDM Lettings have two modern, warm and inviting offices. The head office at 109 Headroomgate Road, St Annes offers ample off road parking, and is situated on a main road in a parade of shops leading into St Annes with plenty of passing traffic, and a bus stop located opposite the shop entrance. The Freckleton office is located on the main road running through

FRIENDLY SERVICE: Staff at the St Annes office and (inset) the office in Freckleton Freckleton, at a pedestrian crossing opposite the Co-op. It is ideally located for British

Aerospace employees to browse the PDM shop window and pop in for information.

So why pick PDM as your letting agent? There are several reasons.

Not only are they local with friendly, efficient staff, but they deal with lettings only on a daily basis therefore guaranteeing you the landlord that all legislations are being handled correctly and supplying you with up-to-date, accurate information. They also have client money protection insurance in place offering you and the tenants assurance in today’s climate that monies are safe. PDM are members of NALS (National Approved Letting Scheme), a government-backed governing body, to ensure that everything they do is correct. They advertise in all the local papers along with having their own bespoke website, and utilising other web portals such as Rightmove. PDM cover the whole of the Fylde coast from their St Annes office and all of Preston and the surrounding areas from the Freckleton office. So why pick another agent, when PDM have the lot? One call really will sort it all. Telephone 01253 788588 or 01773 635353.

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Letting agents you can trust MCDONALD Property Rentals is the Fylde’s leading letting agency, an independent company you can trust who have managed property on the Fylde Coast since 1973. McDonalds Property Rentals specialise in letting residential properties and are proud of the professional service offered to both landlords and tenants The company have three prominent letting centres, at Blackpool, Cleveleys and McDonalds offer a full property manageFleetwood. ment service or let only service. The staff of 12 receive ongoing professional The charge for each is very competitive. training from the Association of Residential It’s worth getting more than one quote to Letting Agents, now part of the National compare services and fees, as many letting Federation of Property Professionals, who are agents charge a number additional fees, committed to raising the standards within the which can be much more expensive. letting and property management profession. It’s important that the property is offered Additionally, in-house training is given on at the correct market rental value. customer service. If the rental asked is too high, it will take McDonalds offer one of the largest selection too long to let, and rental income will be lost. of rental properties on the Fylde coast, with If the rental is too low, then a landlord will even more properites becoming available. also lose income. They also manage properties in Preston and A good letting and managing agency Lancaster. should, when offering a property to let, spend It’s very important for landlords to investitime, energy and money in promoting your gate a company before they instruct an agent. property by taking prominent newspaper There are agents who don’t have any qualificaadvertisements, erecting a clear modern “To tions whatsoever. Let” sign, and providing an easily accessible These companies are not members of any web page where the properties on offer can professional organisation, and therefore be viewed. there’s no control over rents or bonds received. McDonalds invest in considerable advertisSome may only have a PO Box address, or no ing in Local Directories to encourage address visible address at all, in some cases enquiries. only an e–mail address. Over 100 prospective clients visit their web Anyone who wants to ensure that their proppage every day. erty, and their interests are looked after is well McDonalds advertise your property on advised to contact an established company, not RightMove and PropertyFinder, the two leadjust an individual who could be treating proping property portals in the UK and erty management as a part-time job. PropertyLive, a new portal developed by The

Blackpool

A truly professional renting service

Fleetwood

National Association of Estate Agents and The National Association of Letting Agents. When letting a property, it’s important to ensure it is presented to a standard that will attract and encourage a prospective tenant to proceed. Something quite small can make a difference. McDonalds carry out hundreds of accompanied viewings every month. Prospective tenants must complete a detailed application form and give formal photographic evidence of identification. A minimum of three qualifying references must be supplied. Details are given to the landlord for consideration, and if a landlord wants to meet the applicant, this is arranged. If the landlord accepts the applicant, McDonalds arrange for a full tenant reference check to be carried out. If a guarantor is recommended, a credit check is also required. Should either credit check show anything adverse, the landlord is advised, and decides if the application is to proceed. Before anyone moves in, a detailed inventory of the furnishings and condition of the property is prepared, photographs taken, and

Cleveleys

all defects noted. This is signed by both landlord and tenant. A comprehensive Assured Shorthold Tenancy Lease is prepared which will include clauses required by the landlord. The first month’s rent has to be paid in advance, and McDonald Property Rentals as stakeholder under the Tenancy Deposit Scheme hold a bond equal to one month’s rent. McDonalds take meter readings and inform all the services that the tenancy has started. Statements showing all income and expenditure are sent out on a monthly basis to all landlords. Quotations from reliable tradesmen will be obtained for any work required to a property. If a landlord wants his own tradesmen to do the work, this is not a problem. During the term of the tenancy, a property manager will call at the property on a regular basis and carry out an inspection. A report is then prepared and sent to the landlord. Any legal notices to terminate a tenancy will be prepared and served on the tenant. McDonald Property Rentals work on a No Let No Fee basis. Call one of their three offices and find out more about our friendly, professional service that you can trust. It’s the best move you’ll make. www.blackpoollettingagents.co.uk enquiries@blackpoollettingagents.co.uk

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PLACE2LET strongly believe that one of the ways to rent properties speedily and efficiently is through effective advertising. That is why the company has earmarked a substantial amount of expenditure for a high profile advertising campaign over the coming year in The Gazette with their two-page and sometimes three-page advertisements. Additionally, they have recently sponsored The Gazette Business Community Directory which went out to over 38,000 households, with Place2let prominently situated on the front and back covers and inside the publication. Place2let have also just recently launched their new state-of-the-art website www.place2let.co.uk which comprises all their properties with detailed descriptions and photographs. It also features maps, aerial views, landlordsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and tenantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; frequently asked questions, terms and conditions and the facility for prospective tenants to email and book viewings and landlords to download information packs and much more. The site took three months to construct and has become an instant success with both tenants and landlords alike because of its content and user friendly qualities. Place2let believe the key to a successful business is strongly linked with both imaginative and creative advertising which they will continue to do.

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The key to success

EFFECTIVE ADVERTISING: Place2Let staff are ready to help with property rental and (left) the office in Highfield Road, South Shore

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news

Extend flat leases now THE Law Society is advising flat owners with long leases to take advantage of lower property values and extend their leases. The society says that leases should be extended now, as the property value is a very significant factor in determining the cost of extending the lease or buying the freehold. Law Society President Paul Marsh, explained: “Flat owners could actually benefit from the lower prices in the market. “Most leases run for 99 years, but once they have less than 80 years left to run, the cost of buying a lease extension increases significantly. “However, it is possible to extend the lease and it is cheaper to do so when the market values are low, as the

cost of extending is partly determined by the value of the property. “Extending the lease could make it more saleable, so leaseholders should contact their solicitors and look into extending their term, even if they are not planning on selling straight away. “Delaying it could hit flat owners with a double whammy. When property prices go up and the length of time left on the lease has gone down, it will be more expensive to extend it.” Once a leaseholder has been in the property for two years they have a right to extend the term. However, there are circumstances whereby extending the leasehold might not be possible.

The Law Society says that a property solicitor will be able to advise on this. As banks and other lenders continue to restrict lending, anyone wishing to sell their leasehold will find buyers harder to come by. Extending the lease is likely to help their cause. Mr Marsh added: “Lenders are reluctant to lend to a buyer purchasing a short lease, as mortgages tend to require the lease to be at least two-and-a-half times the length of the loan. “A lender is unlikely to offer a 25-year loan on a lease that has 35 years to run. Sellers with longer leaseholds could see more interest from potential buyers who stand a much greater chance of obtaining a loan.”

interiors

www.propertytoday.co.uk TRUE romantics will argue that Valentine’s Day, while fun, is not the most romantic day of the year. They believe the real “aaah” moments are the spontaneous ones that make you realise you’re truly with your soul mate. It’s usually when the person you love has done something touching, quirky, sweet or funny, rather than handing over a predictable bunch of flowers and a soppy card. That said, there’s surely nothing wrong with making your home a place where – if love comes knocking – it’s welcomed by indulging in some heart-warming touches. You could add a heart-shaped cushion here or there, some pretty china decorated with pink hearts, or perhaps an attention grabbing LOVE wall print to send out the message loud and clear. Who knows, it might even encourage those adorable spur-of-the moment romantic gestures – from compliments through to declarations of affection or undying love. Even if you’re not celebrating “V” day, some romantically inclined home goodies will help to turn your rooms into the cosy, lift-your-spirits sanctuaries that they should be. Take your pick from our “set your heart fluttering” treats for the home.

Thursday, February 5, 2009 property today

Turn your home into a love nest SITTING PRETTY: Red Vitra heart-shaped chair, £1,551, or opt for the more affordable Kiss Chair. Its backrest is decorated with red lips and the word Kiss, £299 from Digetex

FUN & FLIRTY If you’re just taking your first steps into a relationship, be careful to use a light touch with those romantic home gestures – a room dripping with hearts could be too heavy at this stage! Drop tiny hints about your feelings by popping a cushion emblazoned with the word LOVE on your sofa. Next’s square red one with white letters is £10, while Coffee & Cream’s chic brown leather cushion with Love on it is £68. Or just let the heart shape do the talking with the red or cream Valentine cushion, £30 from Not On The High Street. If you’re planning the “why don’t you come in for coffee?” moment, set out a few sweet treats on a heart-shaped hammered silver dish, £32 from Debenhams. But they’re really not getting the message, designer Emma Bridgewater has come to the rescue. What could be more appropriate than her mug bearing the message I Had A Really Nice Dream Last Night? The punchline on the base of the mug reads: Of You. Don’t forget to turn the lights down low and woo by candlelight. Heart & Parcel has a selection of pretty tea-light holders, which start at around £6.50 each.

WOOING AND DATING Keep true love on track by surprising him with seductive surprises every now and then. He’ll know that you love his calls if you receive them on a super sexy telephone shaped like a pair of luscious red lips. The Lips phone is £34.25 from Graham & Green. (And it could also make sitting staring at the phone waiting for his calls a lot more appealing too!) You could spell out your feelings by arranging gorgeous gold ceramic LOVE letters on a mantelpiece, or if you’re confident love is here to stay, display a red LOVE wall sticker, £25. Both are from Next. Pretty heart-shaped features are perfect for a feminine bedroom. A gilded heart in gold or silver from Graham & Green is £7.83, while a wooden heart-shaped mirror is £179 from Barker & Stonehouse. Choose from a pink and white Hearts Teapot, £39.95 from Emma Bridgwater (matching cups and saucers available), or a Red Hearts set from T&G’s Dotty Designs collection at Amaroni (teapot, £14.95 and mugs, £8.99 for a set of two). Either could be ideal for those cosy breakfasts together. If you think it’s time for things to get a little more serious, a carved

walnut key bearing the words: “This is the key to my heart” won’t leave him in any doubt about your commitment. It’s by Rob Ryan and costs £29 at Liberty.

SERIOUS SEDUCING

LOOKING GLASS: Mirror £179, console £399 and chair £849, from Barker & Stone

If you’re totally head-overheels about him or her, or are simply in love with romance, you’ll find it hard to resist fabulous pieces that celebrate seduction. Set pulses racing – even if it does dent your bank balance – with a show-stopping red Vitra heartshaped chair, £1,551, or opt for the more affordable Kiss Chair. Its backrest is decorated with red lips and the word Kiss, £299 from Digetex. Hang up a red and white LOVE print, £45, from Bodie & Fou, and perch on a heart-shaped Berlin Tall Heart Pouf, £480 from mydeco. Get up close and personal and immortalise your lips on a KISS portrait. Simply use a lip-print collection kit, which includes a MAC lipstick and sheets of paper that you “kiss” and then send back to makers DNA 11. There’s a huge variety of colour combinations to choose from for a canvas that starts at £200 for 51x51cm size (20x20“).

TEA FOR TWO: Ceramic Red Hearts range from the T&G Woodware Dotty Designs collection at Amaroni

ROMANTIC SOURCES ■ Amaroni: 01285 260 384/www.amaroni.com ■ Barker & Stonehouse: 01642 230 988/www.barkerandstonehouse.co.u k ■ Bodie & Fou: 0117 971 4011/www.bodieandfou.com ■ Emma Bridgewater: 020 7371 5489/www.emmabridgewater.co.uk ■ Coffee & Cream: 08456 447 681/ www.coffeeandcream.co.uk ■ Debenhams: 08445 616 161/www.debenhams.com ■ Digetex: www.digetex.com ■ DNA 11: www.dna11.co.uk Graham & Green: 0845 130 6622/www.grahamandgreen.co.uk ■ Heart & Parcel: 01252 621 145/www.heartandparcel.co.uk ■ Liberty: 020 7734 123/www.liberty.co.uk ■ My Deco: www.mydeco.com Next: www.next.co.uk ■ Not On The High Street: www.notonthehighstreet.com

LOVE CANDY: Art print, £45 from Bodie & Fou

LIP SMACKER: Phone is £34.25 from Graham & Green

Thursday, February 5, 2009

diy

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Brush up on cheap paint GET HANDY We all like a bargain, especially in these economically tough times, and here’s one for DIYers. Homebase is offering three for two (buy any three tins and get the cheapest free) on all Dulux paints in store until 17 March this year. The offer excludes testers, Pure Brilliant White, discounted lines, paint mixing and PaintPod paint, but is still good value if you have decorating to do and your heart’s set on a Dulux shade. See www.homebase.co.uk for your nearest store.

ASK THE EXPERT...

I’m trying to put a clock up Q in my living room, but the wall’s too hard to bang a pic-

ture hook into. Any ideas? Try a reasonably sized nail, a more substantial alternative to the picture hook pins. If this doesn’t work, try a screw (and Rawlplug) and drive it in

with a good electric screwdriver, which should be powerful enough to penetrate the wall. Remember to use a cable and pipe detector on the wall first so you don’t accidentally bang or screw through any wires or pipes.

SEASONAL TASK... The weather’s gone Siberian, so check that your radiators are working properly and warm all over when turned on. If a radiator’s cold at the top, this usually means there’s air inside that needs expelling by bleeding the radiator with a small screwdriver or radiator key, depending on the type of bleed valve. If other parts of the radiator are cold, look up the problem online or in a good DIY book and if you can’t solve it yourself, get a reputable plumber in. TOP TIPS FOR... painting radiators ■ Most metal paints can be used on radiators, but you

should ideally use special heatproof radiator paint, otherwise you may have problems with the colour changing over time due to the heat, especially white and off-white, which tend to yellow. ■ Spray paints are a good idea because they dry quickly and make getting a good finish on conventional panel-style radiators relatively easy. They’re also good for touching up radiators (providing the colour is the same), but you could end up getting through a lot of cans if you’re painting radiators from scratch. ■ You should also paint the radiator pipes when the radiators are turned off. Again, use heatproof radiator paint to avoid discolouration. Remember to use masking tape around the holes in the floor or wall and be careful about the paint splattering as you work around the pipe with your paintbrush.

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property focus

property today Thursday, February 5, 2009

Superb first floor flat Stonemasons Court, Talbot Road, Blackpool

£61,950

This superbly presented first floor flat is being sold on a 50 per cent shared ownership. A communal entrance hall and staircase lead to a private entrance into the flat which benefits from Economy Seven heating and double glazing and has accomodation briefly comprising: hallway, lounge, dining kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. There is a private parking space and communal garden areas.

McDonald and Company (01253) 398498

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Detached with golf club views North Park Drive, Blackpool

£674,950

A well presented substantial detached house boasting views over Blackpool Golf Club. Approached through electric gates and a low maintenance front garden with a driveway to the a double garage, there is a vestibule, hallway, wc, lounge, dining room, kitchen with utility space, shower room and five bedrooms, two with en-suite facilities. To the side of the property there is a lawned garden and there is a flagged yard to the rear.

Entwistle Green (01253) 623511

Find your dream home

Five bedroom detached Kenilworth Gardens, South Shore

circa

£300,000

A substantial detached house in a convenient location, close to transport links, schools, shops and amenities. It has a lounge, dining room, third reception room/bedroom, wc, conservatory, hydrotherapy room, five further bedrooms and a family bathroom. There is ample off road parking space and a garage. The large rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with borders and a patio.

Broomheads (01253) 292222

Modern family home

Little Poulton Gardens, Poulton

£384,950

An imposing, modern detached family home situated on a sought-after development, within easy reach of Poulton centre. There is a hallway, wc, lounge, kitchen open to a conservatory, utility room, four bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room. There is an open plan front garden with a lawn and shrubs. The rear garden is landscaped and has a patio.

Allitt (01253) 890690