Life at Home Issue 5

David Boyden Managing Director, Boydens

Contact Us

Colchester Branch

Aston House, 57-59 Crouch Street, Colchester, CO3 3EY tel: 01206 762244 sales@boydens.co.uk

Sudbury Branch

64 North Street, Sudbury, Su olk, CO10 1RE tel: 01787 883700

sudbury@boydens.co.uk

Coastal Branch

73 Connaught Avenue, Frinton-On-Sea, Essex, CO13 9PP tel: 01255 851185 frinton@boydens.co.uk

West Essex Branch

121 High Street, Kelvedon, CO5 9AA tel: 01376 570335

kelvedon@boydens.co.uk

‘Trust is at the heart of everything we do’

I hope that this edition of Boydens’ Life at Home magazine finds you well. The performance of the property market is a subject of great interest to many people and when I am out and about, people invariably ask me about the state of affairs, and invite me to forecast the future. This, as you can probably imagine, is exceptionally difficult – especially given recent times.

The turn of the year did bring some much-needed stability in the financial markets, which resulted in a calmer, more measured state after the rapidly changing and, at times, chaotic economic climate of the final few months of 2022.

After such frenetic market conditions over the last few years, I believe this year will present us with a somewhat calmer market, which will benefit those measured movers who prefer to take their time to find the right property.

And because we’re likely to see these local markets at play, finding an expert local estate agent – one that knows your area and its trends inside out – will be important. You should choose an agent you feel you can trust to guide you through the process of selling or letting your home.

That is where an agent such as Boydens comes into its own. As a proud family business, trust is at the heart of everything we do, and so whether you are a landlord looking at reshaping your property portfolio or looking to make moving home a priority, we can help.

We look forward to hearing from you.

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18 If not now, when?

Senior Property Consultant Philip Boyden on why it’s a good time to start looking to buy.

22 ‘My home is my escape!’

We chat exclusively to TV presenter Jules Hudson on why he still loves East Anglia.

30 homesSuperior

Discover some of the most exceptional properties currently on the market with Boydens.

37 Get inspired

We take a look at some of the trends that will be shaping homes in 2023.

48 Being a Lettings Negotiator

From carrying out valuations to finding suitable tenants, our lettings team are always on the move.

50 Woven in time

Escape the hustle and bustle and head for the beautiful villages around Sudbury, Suffolk.

58 Trust the experts

Get the inside information on South Suffolk’s towns and villages from the people in the know.

62 Taking those first steps

Check out these five top tips for first-time buyers looking to get onto the property ladder.

66 A true personal service

Why Boydens remains the trusted, family-owned estate agency that truly cares.

HOMES WITH STYLE

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Summer Colour Pots, Dobbies, £39.99 dobbies.com

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Tackling damp and mould could boost property value by up to 20%

A recent study courtesy of energy supplier, Utilita Energy, has revealed that almost a fifth of UK adults have found mould in their property – while 21% were experiencing issues of damp.

During a cost-of-living squeeze which has seen energy bills soar, 42% of UK adults reduced the amount they heated their home over the winter – further exacerbating issues around damp and mould.

A study from social care, housing, and development company, Allerton, also highlighted that, on average, issues of damp and mould can knock 20% off the value of a property. In some extreme cases, the value of a property could be halved by up to 53%.

New data from property technology company iPlace Global (iplaceglobal.com) now reveals that more than one in four (27%) Brits ignore minor faults in their home because they do not consider them a priority.

With condensation being the leading cause of damp and mould in houses across the UK during colder weather, CEO and founder Simon Bath advises homeowners to take preventative steps to tackle it.

Some instances require simple and quick solutions, such as a moisture absorber or improving ventilation. However, damp proofing and effective insulation can be great cost-effective ways to preventing long-term condensation issues.

While larger structural issues such as damp proofing and improving insulation can seem costly up front, it is an investment worth making simply because dampness in a property is a huge deterrent to potential buyers.

“If you discover mould or damp in your home, it’s not just a cosmetic issue as it can also affect your health and decrease your home

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value significantly,” explains Simon. “This can deter buyers if you’re looking to sell and put further strain on finances, especially with the current economic landscape.

‘’Our data highlights that Brits are largely ignoring faults in their homes because they don’t consider them a priority. On average, households can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand pounds to fix dampness... depending on the severity of the problem and the solutions that are needed – so it’s important to nip these issues in the bud to save costs in the long run.

‘’Those looking to sell soon should tackle these problems as soon as they arise. This can add up to 20 per cent to the value of your home in a time when many are in need of a much-needed boost to their bank accounts,” he adds.

A fifth complain about noisy neighbours

Almost one in five (18%) homeowners have made a noise complaint about their neighbours, with 14% having done so in the last year.

According to the study by Confused.com, which polled 2,000 homeowners and renters, almost half of noise complaints (47%) made are about household noise and neighbours talking loudly.

Eighty per cent more households with four children complained for this reason (68%) than those without children (38%).

Loud music and TV (40%) and late night parties (39%) come in second and third place. Over half (53%) of those living in rented properties have complained about late night parties, compared to just over a third (35%) of those with a mortgage.

Almost two thirds (64%) of homeowners with mortgages consider themselves to be “fairly friendly” with their neighbours, in comparison to 46% of tenants. This could suggest why 51% more tenants complained about noise compared to homeowners.

More than a third (36%) of 18-24 year olds surveyed admitted to complaining about noise from their neighbours’ homes. Over a quarter (27%) have made a complaint in the last year, compared to just 6% of those aged 35-44.

Social housing residents also account for 17% of noise complaints. This is amid news that the Housing Ombudsman has released a report calling for social landlords to develop a stronger strategy for ‘handling noise seriously’.

In comparison, those aged between 45-64 are least likely to make noise complaints, with over two-thirds (67%) reporting they’ve never done so. However, the survey shows that noise complaints have become less frequent in the past year, with just 14% raising a complaint. This is compared to 22% in previous years. This could be due to noise complaints increasing by 50% during lockdowns in 2020 and 2021.

Over four-fifths (83%) of homeowners and renters reported being friendly with their neighbours. But, over half (56%) of residents surveyed have had to claim for large damage on their home insurance after their property was damaged by their neighbours.

Examples of large damage include footballs coming through windows, or water leaks coming from upstairs neighbours. Almost all respondents (98%) had to pay an additional sum themselves when making a claim, paying an average of £1,881.46.

Jessica Willock, home insurance expert at Confused.com, comments:

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“Living with noisy neighbours can be difficult to handle without creating tension. More often than not, a friendly conversation goes a long way. But when that fails, where to turn to next can be confusing.

“We’ve created a guide to understanding basic neighbour etiquette, including how best to handle noisy situations. Calling the police should only be used as a last resort, but you should also consider getting in touch with your local council.

“Accidental property damage can also be the cause of neighbour disputes. If your neighbour refuses to accept fault or pay for the damage, you might end up having to make a claim on your home insurance policy. You may have to pay the excess for the claim, even if you aren’t at fault, so resolving informally might be the best course of action.”

The results

THE MORTGAGE MARKET AHEAD

The back end of 2022 saw some fairly sharp interest rate rises, and with the Bank of England base rate increasing from 1.25% at the start of August to 3.5% in mid-December, it is easy to see why the mortgage market proved fairly volatile.

Clients have been keen to fix rates across the longer term amid fears that this increase could be set to continue, but lenders were forced to load a premium onto their mortgage rates as they anticipated increases to continue. Thankfully, since Christmas, we have started to see some of these mortgage interest rates come down as lenders have been keen to display an appetite to lend, which is good for the property market and, of course, good for our clients.

For those who already have a mortgage, the advice that we have been giving is to plan ahead. We will look to speak to our clients six months prior to their mortgage fixed rate end date in order to start looking at what the new payments are going to look like on the current market rates.

There is no doubt that most of our clients are going to see an increase at the moment, but there are things that can be adjusted, and that we can review together such as re-looking at the mortgage term, the schemes on offer through alternative lenders, and alternative rate types. We will go through a client’s income and outgoings at this stage, which although not directly linked to the mortgage, has helped highlight a few areas that clients can start looking at to save in certain areas, too.

It’s incredible how much the subscriptions start adding up when you throw in all of the on-demand TV and music services that we have grown accustomed to paying each month. An early review doesn’t tie you into a product if you feel that rates may decrease, and a new rate wouldn’t usually take effect until the end of the current fixed rate too.

The advice is the same for my purchase customers, and again the income and outgoings assessment is key as things like utility bills have increased in recent times.

As interest rate rises begin to settle down, mortgage consultant Chris Pargin, of Pargin Financial Solutions, looks at the options for borrowers.

So, that is another area that we need to think about and tackle head-on to ensure that the monthly mortgage payments that clients are looking to take on remain affordable.

What we are also seeing a bit more of are changes in client income, and how this can be used. We have seen a fair number of clients who are gaining pay rises, bonuses and also who have secondary income such as second jobs and benefit income. These are things that lenders all look at differently, but that can really alter the amount of mortgage that can be obtained.

A lot of people think that if they receive a pay rise or gain a new job, they can only look to start using this income for mortgage purposes once they have three months’ payslips showing this income. This isn’t usually the case, and sometimes clients won’t realise that a lot of lenders will take child benefit, maintenance and other income sources such as annual bonus payments into account.

This can be the difference between being able to purchase a property or not, so as soon as you are aware of any income changes, my advice would be to let your advisor know so that they can see what difference this can make and if/when it can be used.

A large part of our business is also in assisting our buy-to-let clients, who have been as keen as our residential clients to look to review their options early and secure a continued return from their investment.

Again, reviewing early is the advice and with rising interest rates has come rising stress rates, which

has meant that some of the rental properties in our clients’ portfolios are falling short on affordability for approving the same loan amount that they already have. A lot of the time, the current lender will offer a product transfer option, so a new rate can still be secured and we would always look at this against the schemes available through alternative lenders when assessing these for our clients, regardless.

It’s key to review the rental income regularly to ensure that market rate is being achieved, and we are lucky that we have a very good lettings team that we work alongside to help our clients here. Failing to review rents in the past has meant that our landlords might lose out on the difference between what they are charging tenants and the market rental valuation across a year.

However, in this new market, the increase in mortgage payments by not being able to move lenders also needs to be factored in if it prevents clients from being able to remortgage successfully, showing how important it is to keep on top of rental income.

Article by Chris Pargin, of Pargin Financial Solutions. You can contact Chris on chris@parginfs.com or 07398163663.

Pargin Financial Solutions Ltd and Boydens are separate entities. For estate agents, Pargin Financial Solutions Ltd acts as introducers only

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“There is no doubt that most of our clients are going to see an increase at the moment, but there are things that can be adjusted.”

IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

With rising inflation and the increased cost of living creating economic uncertainty, it’s no surprise that many people are thinking even more carefully about whether now is the right time to move home. Philip Boyden, Senior Property Consultant, weighs up the issues.

It is certainly the case that buyers are treading with caution and sellers are having to adjust their price expectations in line with this changing market, but our collective appetite as a nation for homeownership remains strong and we continue to see activity despite the wider challenges.

Regardless of the macro-economic climate, which can and will continue to change, some people will always need to move for a variety of reasons. Everyone’s personal circumstances are different, but if you are in a position where you have to move and can still afford to do so, this is still the right time for you to start looking.

Indeed, if you are a second-stepper or upsizing significantly, for example, markets like this can sometimes be a better time to move. While the property you are selling may have to be marketed more competitively than a few months ago, this will most likely also be the case for the home you are stepping up to.

Over the last couple of years, the imbalance of supply compared to demand has impacted movers, who faced limited stock and property choices. However, while there are now additional economic factors to consider, it is worth bearing in mind that throughout the second half of 2022, we witnessed an increase in new instructions coming to the market for sale, and as a result stock levels are higher than they were just a few months ago.

There is more choice now than there was previously if you are a buyer looking for a property, meaning it is likely you will be able to choose from a wider range of suitable properties when looking for your next purchase.

Given the current economic climate, it is understandable that doubt may start to creep in if you do decide to get the ball rolling on your search, which may make you question again the decision to go ahead. If this happens, one thing I would advise is this: once you’ve decided to buy a property and feel it is the right one for you, unless

“If you are in a position where you have to move and can still afford to do so, this is still the right time for you to start looking.”

20

you can no longer afford it, it will still be the right property for you regardless of external factors.

Buying a property is a long-term decision and, given that the average tenure of homeowners extends to several years, a home purchase is never a short-term scenario, but rather a long-term viewpoint. Wider economic headwinds have always (and will always) fluctuate during the average timeframe a person owns their property.

Home is where the heart is Most importantly, in any market you should remember the emotional aspect of moving home along with the convenience and lifestyle that it provides. In the long term, small fluctuations in a property’s value will be less significant and more than outweighed by the emotional value attached to it being your home. So, unless you can now no longer afford to move, if you find a property you love and your reason for moving hasn’t changed, your decision shouldn’t be affected by temporary market conditions. Keep in mind the long-term emotional, practical and personal value moving home will have.

Another thing to remember when starting the moving process is that now, more than ever, it is important to get the advice of a local agent who really knows the market and can price realistically to keep things moving.

That is where agents like Boydens come to the fore, and so if you would welcome some no-obligation advice, please do speak to us.

For more information, contact Philip on: T: 01206 773312 E: philip.boyden@boydens.co.uk

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SEE PHILIP AT WORK HERE

“Another thing to remember when starting the moving process is that now, more than ever, it is important to get the advice of a local agent who really knows the market and can price realistically to keep things moving.”

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‘My home is my escape!’

We chat exclusively with archaeologist and TV presenter, Jules Hudson,of Escape to the Country and Springtime on the Farm, about growing up in Colchester, why he loves East Anglia so much, and his top tips for relocating to the countryside.

You grew up in Colchester and went to school in Ipswich – what are your overriding memories of the area, and did you spend much time in the countryside?

When I was born, my parents bought a property in Lexden and ran it as a B&B for 40-odd years, so I grew up in a very eclectic house with different people from all over the world.

My dad was a keen sailor, and I spent a lot of my years at West Mersea. We had a wooden boat that needed constant care and attention, so many summers spent stripping varnish. I always loved art – my dad was an amateur artist – so we’d also often spend time in Constable country, on the River Stour in Dedham Vale.

I have huge romantic memories of the East Anglian countryside and I was very fortunate that I had a horse when I was 11 until the age of 23. She was stabled in Layer de la Haye, near Colchester, so my holidays and weekends were spent cycling through the countryside four times a day to take care of her.

Image courtesy of BBC/Naked West

What do you like about East Anglia as a place to live and the properties it offers?

I think one of the great things about East Anglia is the amount of historic housing stock that exists. We had no raw materials like stone in East Anglia, so most houses are timber framed. There is something quintessentially British – and particularly English –about a timber-framed house. That tradition is one that I’ve been very excited to see return in recent years.

I describe East Anglia in my book as ‘Lovejoy country’. There are places that just echo down the centuries with the quality of the property that’s available – from a modest farmworker or fisherman’s cottage all the way up to your grand, red brick pile. Economically, East Anglia has always been a very vibrant area, thanks to the wool trade going back to the 14th and 15th centuries. You also get this vestige of past economic glories in the guildhalls, public buildings and churches that have survived. The landscape offers rich pickings ‒ we’re blessed with a bit of everything.

What first triggered your interest in buildings and properties?

Growing up in Colchester as a kid in the 1970s and being surrounded by the Roman story and Boudicca, who famously destroyed it, was probably how it all started.

On my seventh birthday, I remember visiting Colchester Castle, which is built on the foundations

of the temple of Claudius and was destroyed by Boudicca. I was standing in the vaults with my father as the tour guide told the story when all of a sudden some sand from the roof, which had been there for 2,000 years, fell off and landed on my head. I scooped it up and I just couldn’t believe it was possible to touch a moment in history like that. I thought, I have to go and find the past – I want to be an archaeologist.

I started working for the Colchester Archaeology Trust when I was 18, and I studied archaeology and history at St David’s University College in Wales. After leaving in 1992, I did a Master’s degree in archaeological surveying at Durham University.

What was your first property investment, and what did you learn?

I always felt happier in the countryside than I ever did in any city. When I got the chance to do my own thing in 1997, I bought a house in the Welsh countryside, in the Cambrian Mountains, for £29,500. It was a tumble-down wreck – a two-up, two-down, built in the 1800s, with an attached stone barn. As an archaeology student, I’d fallen in love with this village, and I just kept going back. It was one of those places, like Hotel California – you could never leave it – and that mountainous landscape is something I’ve never lost the love for.

I spent the next 18 months doing it up and it gave me a love of renovation, which I still have today.

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Jules, right, with co-presenters, Springtime on the Farm, Channel 5

The landscape offers rich pickings ‒ we’re blessed with a bit of everything.”

“

Due to the fact that I had to apply for a renovation grant, which took nine months to get, it gave me the time to go through every single detail with the architect and builders. I was working in London at the time as a researcher/runner and trotting up and down every weekend, so I spent hours in the car planning it – I became a real geek.

What I took away from that was that you can’t over-plan it – you just need to be alive to reacting to what’s possible and make any changes as these things evolve. The reward was creating something of my own. It took a lot of hard work and taught me you need people to be on side to share your vision, so teamwork is essential.

Did you always dream of becoming a TV presenter?

No. I went to do my MA after joining the army at Sandhurst in 1993 – I’d wanted to join the Royal Armoured Corps and a regiment called the 3rd Royal Tank Regiment, but it had just ceased to exist. I did a couple of terms but became disheartened and went back into archaeology.

A great friend of mine, Dan Rivers, who is now a very well-known ITN war correspondent, introduced me to the media world. We had been roommates at university and he had gone off to do a postgrad in journalism. He’d come back with these fascinating stories, and I thought, wow, this

is really exciting. I didn’t know the first thing about it, but I luckily got a job working on a series about dinosaurs and then, in 1999, I went to ‘Horizon’ for the BBC.

Tell us a little about your home in the Wye Valley, Herefordshire... We bought the property 11 years ago – a 1580 timber-framed house that sits in a couple of acres, which used to be part of a 150-acre farm. I live there with my wife and son, and some chickens and dogs.

It wasn’t initially a project – we moved straight in, but we knew it needed a new roof, probably rewiring and plumbing at some point in the future, and there were a couple of structural issues that became apparent.

Over that time, we’ve had to do all those things. It is a black hole of money, to be honest, but we love it, and we bought it – not just because of the house – but the outbuildings and the garden. We’re very fortunate – it’s a lot of hard work, but what else would I be doing?

Ever since those early days in Wales, I think I need a project – it’s a bit of a handrail. We’ve just launched a shepherd’s hut holiday let, Mole Hill Hut, in the grounds, which has been an absolute joy to do, and we also run a holiday apartment in Woodbridge, Suffolk, on the River Deben, on behalf of my mother to help meet her care costs.

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Clockwise from top, the shepherd’s hut holiday let, Mole Hill Hut, Herefordshire, and Jules on the River Deben in Woodbridge, Suffolk.

What do you love most about your home?

We have the most fantastic views over Herefordshire and the Wye Valley, and there’s the garden that wraps around it. It’s my escape.

Do you see yourself living in the countryside for ever and why?

I do. I can imagine in my retirement being in a very small market town. I can admire and appreciate cities around the world. But it’s the sense of space and having something to do that I love. If I lived in a town, what would I do with myself?

What’s coming up for 2023 that excites you?

We’re looking forward to filming a new series of ‘Springtime on the Farm’ for Channel 5 in Yorkshire in April, and getting back on the road for ‘Escape to the Country’ on BBC2 – hopefully, helping more escapees to find their dream home, which is really rewarding and exciting. We also make another series, ‘I Escaped to the Country’, where we catch up with some of those that we’ve inspired to move.

I’m incredibly lucky because I get to see the UK in its entirety every year, and I never tire it.

What was the best ever piece of property advice you received?

Make it what you want it to be – within what’s possible and to a budget, so cut your cloth accordingly. Look after the building and it will look after you.

What’s your top tip for anyone considering moving to the countryside?

One of the key things is, where? It’s really important to develop an emotional connection to the region. You may not have been born or bred there, but it's important to have a real affinity to it because that’s the foundation of why you make it work as opposed to falling for the holiday romance.

Spend time in the area, get to know it and find out what’s available. Be sensible about it, but don’t be afraid to be ambitious. And don’t look for the ‘perfect’ house. Does the perfect house exist? My definition of the perfect house is the house that wants you to embrace its imperfections – just like the perfect partner.

GETTING TO KNOW JULES

What’s your favourite?

1. Countryside location to visit: Wales

2. Property style: Timber-framed cottage or Georgian

3. Architectural landmark: Telford’s bridge over the Menai Strait, Anglesey

4. Room at home: My workshop

5. Home gadget: Milwaukee drill set

6. Foreign holiday: Sailing in the Ionian sea

7. UK holiday destination: Anglesey

8. Style of cuisine: One-pot cooking –I love a sausage and chorizo casserole

9. Music: Big band and Thomas Tallis (Gregorian)

10. Desert island must-have: My Uggs (after a busy day, then the world is good)

If you’d like to take part in Escape to the Country, go to bbc.co.uk/takepart

Signed copies of Jules’s books, The Escape to the Country Handbook and Walled Gardens, can be ordered direct from JulesHudson.co.uk

Why not enjoy your own escape to the country with Jules by exploring the Welsh borders and the Wye valley from Mole Hill Hut? For bookings, go to sugarandloaf.com or holidaycottages.co.uk

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Superior Homes

BIRCH, ESSEX £950,000

Heathcote is a stunning, four bedroom extended Georgian residence that can be found on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Birch overlooking the green.

Dating back to the early 1800s, this beautifully symmetrical family home offers an abundance of period features and elegant interiors. The current owners undertook a renovation programme to sympathetically restore the house and extend the rear to provide a contemporary, bespoke kitchen/living space with French doors overlooking an established rear garden.

The garage has also been converted into a one-bedroom annex with vaulted ceilings and its own private entrance, as well as access from the extension. This versatile space could be used for elderly relatives, a nanny, or to provide an additional income.

Features in the main house include a snug, open fireplaces, utility/laundry room along with a useful pantry, and an inner lobby providing access to a shower room.

The master bedroom opens into an en suite with twin sinks and a double shower cubicle, while one of the bedrooms was converted into a bathroom during the renovation work.

Externally, there is a gravelled driveway with parking for a minimum of six cars. The sizable garden is mainly laid to lawn with features including a large patio, an ornate pond, fruit trees, and a kitchen garden.

The A12, Colchester and two mainline railway stations are a short drive away offering direct links to London Liverpool Street in under an hour.

*Prices correct at time of going to press

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We take a look at some of the most exceptional homes currently on the market with Boydens.

For more information about this exceptional property and other Superior Homes by Boydens, find your nearest branch at boydens.co.uk

TOLLESHUNT KNIGHTS, MALDON, ESSEX £2M

Having been occupied for nearly four decades by its current owners, the opportunity to acquire this stunning, multiple-dwelling site is a rare one.

Set on a private, established plot of just over two acres, six miles from Kelvedon village (offering London Liverpool Street in 50 minutes), the site comprises more than 8,500 sq ft of buildings in total, offering a vast amount of flexible and versatile accommodation – ideal for dual generation living/working or income producing through private rents.

It includes:

Barnhall House (5,018 sq ft) Accessed via its own sweeping, gravel driveway, this six/seven bedroom main residence features parts dating back 170 years, but with the benefit of not being listed. It features a newly completed, impressive wing (3,500 sq ft), that’s both finished sympathetically and to the highest of standards. The property includes eight bathrooms/WCs (including four en suites), four reception rooms, a kitchen/breakfast room, and laundry and utility rooms.

Rosemary Cottage (888 sq ft) Comprising two bedrooms and a first floor study, kitchen, lounge/dining room, and a bathroom and separate shower room.

Rosemary Cottage Annex (643 sq ft) Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, and separate lounge/dining area.

Long Barn, Studio & Cart lodges (2,169 sq ft) Registered as a holiday let, this accommodation features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, and separate lounge/dining area.

Outside Offering formal gardens, paddocks with a detached, oak-framed/weather-boarded barn, stables, an orchard and pond.

*Prices correct at time of going to press

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For more information about this exceptional property and other Superior Homes by Boydens, find your nearest branch at boydens.co.uk

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WEST BERGHOLT, ESSEX £1M

The Grays is a substantial period property, set in grounds of one and a third acres in the wonderful village of West Bergholt.

Just three miles from Colchester North Station, offering direct links to London Liverpool Street and excellent transport links to the A12, it offers commuters the best of both worlds.

The Grays’ original history is unknown, but the front, red-brick Georgian extension was built in the 1840s-1850s and creates an impressive frontage, with a shingle, circular driveway leading to the central front door. There is also a second driveway providing access to the site’s outbuildings.

Over the last century, there have been just four owners with the current residents purchasing the property in 1982.

Inside, the living space is adaptable with three/four reception rooms on the ground floor and five bedrooms and family bathroom on the first floor.

The property boasts a conservatory/orangery with listed building consent with French doors leading to a garden; a study/playroom; a rear lobby with stable door into the rear garden; a downstairs WC plus a generous utility room.

There is also a brick-built, triple open garage, stable barn/games room which could create a superb office space, and a workshop. *Prices correct at time of going to press

For more information about this exceptional property and other Superior Homes by Boydens, find your nearest branch at boydens.co.uk

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GET INSPIRED

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Colours

Spring – the season that bursts with colour and new beginnings – is the perfect time of year for a décor overhaul or a simple spruce-up.

But which hues are going to be getting us all colour-coordinated in 2023? Are we going to be feeling blue, in the pink, or green with envy? We take a look at some of the shades that will be making a splash this season and beyond.

From cocooning colours and textured surfaces to functional must-haves and comforting touches, we take a look at some of the top trends that will be shaping homes in 2023.

Benjamin Moore UK Colour of the Year 2023, Raspberry Blush

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Pastels

Spring colours are always popular in fashion circles this time of the year for obvious reasons, but there has been an early leaning to gelato greens and baby blues in 2023, and what usually is a trend on the catwalks quickly shimmies over to the home interiors market.

Dopamine décor

“We’ve already started to see bold and colourful interiors [last year], but they will be even more prevalent in 2023,” comments Ann Marie Cousins, Founder of interior design consultancy AMC Design (amcinteriordesign.co.uk).

“There has been more of a focus on creating surroundings that heavily influence our moods and wellness, so introducing a vibrant colour palette is a great place to start. Explore your more playful and nostalgic side and experiment with patterns and textures to create the ultimate uplifting atmosphere in your home.”

Powerful pinks

Pantone has revealed its Colour of The Year as ‘Viva Magenta’, a shade inspired by the deep crimson of cochineal, one of the world’s most vibrant natural dyes used to produce scarlet, red, pink and orange fabrics.

Regarded as the global colour bible, Pantone’s announcement will see striking hues of magenta-inspired pinks dominating interior moodboards. Cari Bateman, Senior Designer at fitted furniture expert Neville Johnson (nevillejohnson.co.uk) says: “Shades of pink have been popular in 2022 and it looks like the popularity is only going to increase. We can see this colour being used as a wonderful accent piece amongst more neutral designs in larger communal spaces within the home.”

Benjamin Moore’s (benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk)

colour of the year, Raspberry Blush, will also join the colour rush this year. A shade of coral tinged with pink, this hue makes no apologies for its boldness.

“People are ready to bring colour back into the home, taking a step outside their colour comfort zones,” says Andrea Magno, the paint brand’s Colour Marketing & Development Director.

Natural inspiration

After the lockdown era, this year will see many wanting to make an even deeper connection with nature that helps us feel better in our homes.

Entering the neutral palette must-haves for 2023 is the glowing and uplifting tone, Wild Wonder, a warm shade that blends soft green with mustard yellow which has been unveiled as Dulux’s (dulux.co.uk) Colour of the Year.

Earthy tones will also be popular in the drive to bring tranquillity to living spaces – from walls to worktop surfaces.

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AMC Design creates a burst of colour in this lounge

Kitchen

What’s cooking up for the heart of the home, the kitchen? We take a look at some of the biggest trends, according to the experts.

copper and gold, which pair perfectly due to their warm undertones, or cooler metals like nickel and chrome, which sit well against lighter colours and modern kitchen designs. However, a word of caution: “Using too much of the same metal can look one dimensional, so ensure the finish you choose suits its placement in the kitchen.”

Homely touches

After the pandemic, comfort is now more than ever at the forefront of people’s minds and kitchens, the heart of the home, are evolving to include nostalgic detailing and snug touches. Alex comments: “We’ve seen a rise in requests for bookcases displaying personal possessions and traditional large farmhouse sinks with quality sink skirts, which give kitchens so much personality and warmth.”

The (continued) rise of Japandi

Texture, texture, and more texture

“We’re seeing many homeowners experimenting with texture, in part due to the emergence of cottagecore, and the requirement for warmer and more tactile materials in the home,” explains Alex Main, Director of The Main Company, a bespoke kitchen brand (maincompany.com).

“Whether this is in the form of a reclaimed element such as a wooden worktop, or a crisp panel detail, clients are experimenting more and more, and are looking for individual touches in their kitchens. Reclaimed wood is increasingly popular thanks to its sustainable nature and visual appeal, with exquisite natural details which give a characterful, rustic aesthetic to a home.”

Natural stone is here to stay

A timeless choice for many homeowners, with quartz and marble worktops remaining firm favourites in 2023. “Manmade options aren’t as good as the real thing, however, the quartz equivalents are a respectable alternative and tend to be more hardwearing,” says Alex. “Renowned for its quality finish and incredible versatility, natural stone works across both traditional and modern kitchens alike. From worktops to splashbacks, there are a huge array of options out there to suit any style of kitchen.”

Mixed metals

“We’re noticing a shift with consumers looking to incorporate mixed metals into their kitchen designs,” he adds. Metals in similar tones offer a cohesive style, such as

According to trends experts at online interiors platform, Houzz, searches for ‘Japandi kitchens’ rose by 104% in 2022. Japandi is a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics with the emphasis on functional and minimalist design. “Defined by natural materials, mixing multiple textures and a focus on organisational elements, the Japandi style is easy to achieve and even easier to use day to day,” observes Dawn Filkins, Head of Creative at online kitchen retailer Smile Kitchens (smilekitchens.com). “Open shelving to display functional and aesthetic items is a great way to incorporate this trend into your existing kitchen or a new one.”

Statement lighting

“Customers are increasingly beginning to consider lighting as a part of their overall kitchen design,” adds Dawn.“We’ve seen many requests for statement pieces such as chandeliers or pendant lighting fixtures, offering a brilliant way to bring the homeowner’s personality and style into a space in a unique way. With the rise in broken plan living, lighting also offers an effective way to break up different zones of the home as the lighting changes between areas.”

Secret food storage

Can you keep a secret? In 2023 storage solutions are going to up their game. “Think huge, hidden pantries, floor to ceiling pull-out larders and even clever corner optimisers,” says Dawn. “The rise of ‘organisation’ inspiration on social media has sparked huge demand for an area dedicated to organising ingredients and providing a space where everything is accessible for quick meals, busy schedules, and impromptu hosting.”

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maincompany.com

Image by Chris Snook

Bedroom

Adam Black, Co-Founder of Button & Sprung (buttonandsprung.com) provides expert insight on the trends that will be making an impact in the bedroom.

Cocooning neutrals

“There has been a subtle move away from cold greys and traditional creams, towards warmer comforting colours of moss, clay, sand and wood. These neutral tones can be incorporated into the bedroom setting through low-key patterned linens and soft furnishings for a comforting aesthetic.”

#Newstalgia

Taking over the internet, Newstalgia is all about bringing the old and new together. Many homeowners are now mixing contemporary colour palettes with traditional or retro designs for a unique and distinctive appeal. “It’s all about combining vintage silhouettes with bright and refreshing colours and patterns, for a look that reinvents the past while adding a modern stylish stamp to the home,” says Adam.

Contrasting colour

Alongside the return of retro, we are also expecting to see a move towards contrasting, and sometimes clashing colour combinations. The brighter the better… pair emerald-green against fuchsia pink for a playful bedroom interior. “Choosing the right colour scheme is important when deciding how you want your bedroom space to make you feel. This may reflect a love of bright colours and opulent tones, or a more natural aesthetic.”

Naturally sustainable

Sustainability continues to be at the forefront of the interiors industry, particularly as consumers are increasingly aware of environmental concerns. “We believe that a natural, rather than a foam-filled mattress, is an essential ingredient for a good night’s sleep, and we firmly feel that mattresses should include only natural fillings such as silk, wool, hemp, cashmere and mohair. Every one of our mattresses can also be fully recycled at the end of its life, making it a perfect addition for the eco-conscious sleeper.”

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Imagery courtesy of buttonandsprung.com

Bathroom

What will bathrooms look like in 2023? The teams at experts Roca (uk.roca.com) and LAUFEN (laufen.co.uk) have drawn upon their expertise to make a few predictions.

Inevitably, some trends have been growing for a while –after all, we’re talking bathrooms, not fast fashion. But the market and public tastes are always shifting, so the next few months are likely to bring as much change as the year just gone.

and we’re seeing lots of people choosing them when reworking their current scheme. They relieve the pressure of the morning rush and what’s more, you can double up on storage underneath. With more people in the house, you can never have too much storage!”

Bathrooms that are easier to clean

“No-one wants to spend their precious downtime scrubbing the bathroom – and that will be as true in 2023 as always, especially with so many of us engaged in hybrid working,” says Emma. “The design of rimless WCs means that there are no nooks and crannies for dirt and bacteria to build up.”

Softer and more natural colours

Multifunctional bathrooms

“With family members of all ages increasingly living under the same room, there’s more need than ever for family bathrooms with a multifunctional approach to their design,” says Natalie. “For example, a good investment for a busy bathroom is a double basin,

“People want to strengthen their ties with nature, so we’ll see an abundance of natural textures as well as neutral shades in 2023,” explains Natalie. “Soft greys, deep greens and warm woods are likely to be popular, tying in with a complementary trend for spa-inspired bathrooms with strong links to nature.”

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Natalie Bird and Emma Mottram, brand marketing managers, talk us through six bathroom trends we’ll see in 2023...

laufen.co.uk

uk.roca.com

A touch of glamour

“Alongside the spa-like neutrality though, we will want a touch of bling in the bathroom,” reasons Emma. “People are stepping away from the standard chrome and embracing statement finishes such as rose gold, which adds a hint of warmth and glamour while accentuating natural materials in the bathroom. Alternatively, for a contemporary focal point, brassware in matt black or titanium black makes a stylish statement.”

Softer lines in the bathroom

“We’re finding that our customers are eschewing the sharp lines of cube-shaped brassware in favour of more forgiving cylindrical forms that soften the hard, cold

surfaces dominating the bathroom,” says Natalie. “Curves are also significantly less clinical than clean-cut lines and help the space feel more welcoming. I think we’re all looking to feel more cocooned against the outside world in 2023!”

Demand for sustainable solutions

“Often trends come from necessity, but that doesn’t make them any less true or important, which is why we’re talking about the trend for sustainability in the bathroom,” concludes Emma. Customers are increasingly asking about eco-tap features, which are not only better for the planet but also the pocket during a cost of living crisis.

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Day in the life of... a Lettings Negotiator

From carrying out valuations to finding suitable tenants and negotiating let offers, Boydens’ Lettings Negotiators are always on the move.

Nathan Hey: Lettings Negotiator, Colchester Branch

Like most days, yesterday was a busy day so I know today will also be busy, but to start with we have our morning meeting.

In this, we discuss the events of yesterday and what today holds. After, we have a clear plan of what we want to achieve today, followed

up with some high fives and motivational support from my boss. It’s time to crack on.

First things first, and that is to reply to my emails overnight, work the Rightmove and Zoopla leads, and reply to any messages.

The phones are ringing from the offset, so already we are filling up the diary with appointments.

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The office is buzzing with deals being struck from new property instructions to offers to let. I work within a team of three supported by our Admin Manager and, between us all, we survive the busy morning fuelled on tea and cake.

The afternoon is secured for viewings, valuations and revamps. I am out and about meeting prospective tenants, talking to them about their

requirements and matching them to properties that best meet their needs.

I personally love this part of the day as I get to meet and greet all types of people, from seasoned landlords to first time renters and put deals together, which I find very rewarding.

Late afternoon, it’s back to the o ce and on the phones providing viewing feedback to our landlord clients, as well as confirming values and services

from property valuations carried out earlier in the day. The afternoon flies by and before you know it, it is 5pm. Time for a quick co ee and a couple of biscuits, and back to it. For the remainder of the day, I am on the phones again speaking to my landlord clients, updating them on up-and-coming regulations and customer service calls.

At the end of the day, we all have a quick huddle to review the day’s

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A good lettings negotiator is someone who thrives on customer service and is able to naturally put people and property together. They are incredibly knowledgeable on all aspects of housing law and are able to interpret this to their clients in a manner that is easy to understand.

They are multirole in that they don’t just let properties, but will assist landlords with preparing their properties for let, best properties to purchase for the maximum return, and ensuring consistent compliance.

I am proud to say that all our letting agents in Boydens possess these skills and are ready and willing to assist landlords, new and old, with their portfolios.

Paul Buck, Director of Sales & Lettings, Boydens

events and spend a few minutes preparing for the following day, then o home for either a session down the gym or a game of football before I’m back in the o ce tomorrow to start all over again. I love connecting people and property, and this is why I am a letting agent.

Contact Nathan today 01206 773316

nathan.hey@boydens.co.uk

Time Woven in

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of town or city life, the beautiful villages around Sudbury, Suffolk, which built their success on the wool trade, offer a tranquil life that’s quintessentially English.

Location focus

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In medieval times, the fortunes of a handful of Suffolk towns and villages were changed forever by the wool trade.

Sudbury and surrounding villages such as Lavenham and Long Melford became known as the ‘Wool Towns’, renowned for producing cloth destined for Europe and Russia, where it was coveted.

Fine timber-framed houses were built, magnificent churches rose from the ground and families became wealthy as a result of industrial success.

Today, these villages are regarded as some of the prettiest England has to offer, their stunning, historic properties in idyllic settings – but close to modern day amenities and infrastructure –entice those looking for a way of life that has disappeared from many urban landscapes.

Lavenham

Regarded by many as Britain’s best preserved medieval village, Lavenham exudes charm at every turn.

Located approximately seven miles from Sudbury town centre, to the north east, Lavenham is thought to have been among the 14th wealthiest settlements in England during Tudor times, thanks to its prowess as one of Suffolk’s most important ‘Wool Towns’.

Granted its market charter in 1257, the village exported its famous blue broadcloth as far afield as Russia.

Today, Lavenham – with a population barely over 1,700 – is a thriving village with a strong community spirit that has retained its historic glory.

It boasts some 320 listed timber-framed buildings, many of which are protected by English Heritage. There’s the magnificent Grade I listed Church of St Peter and St Paul, regarded as one of the finest examples of Late Perpendicular Gothic architecture in England, along with the splendid Guidhall of Corpus Christi, housing a fascinating social history and National Trust Tea Room.

Fine art galleries and antique shops intertwine with traditional butchers, bakers, grocers and independently owned businesses selling clothes, gifts and designer homewares. There are myriad places to relax and refuel, with cafes, tea rooms, pubs and restaurants providing plenty of choice for all tastes and budgets.

If you can drag yourself away from the village centre, easily accessible countryside footpaths and circular walks beckon.

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Long Melford

Located slightly closer to Sudbury, directly north, is Long Melford, colloquially and historically also referred to as Melford.

With a population of around 4,000, the village also owes its rich legacy to the burgeoning wool trade of the medieval period, seen today in many of the timber-framed buildings that still exit today.

Its claims to fame include being used as a setting for the popular TV series, Lovejoy, which made the most of the many antique shops and art galleries lining the main street through this elongated village (hence the name).

Long Melford also boasts the longest parish church in

Suffolk – Holy Trinity, which dates back to the 15th century and is nearly 250ft in length.

For those who love the great outdoors, there’s plenty to explore – Melford Country Park, offering eight hectares of grassland, woodland and lakes, and Melford Walk, a 2km stroll that takes in wonderful views.

Acton

Head two miles east of Long Melford and you will arrive in the village of Acton, which has a population of around 1,800 people and includes the hamlets of Cuckoo Tye and Newman’s Green.

Despite its small stature, the village boasts a thriving community spirit with a number of local clubs and a wildlife reserve for nature lovers.

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Great Cornard & Little Cornard

Located to the south-east of Sudbury, just over one mile away, is the large village of Great Cornard, with a population of just under 9,000.

The village has sporting prowess, as home to a non-league football club, as well as hockey and rugby union teams for Sudbury along with a motorcycle club track.

On the outskirts is the stunning Cornard Country Park, a nature reserve boasting beautiful wildflower meadows and woodland.

Next to its larger sibling is Little Cornard with some 140 dwellings housing a population of less than 300 residents.

Image courtesy of Visit Suffolk

Long Melford

Getting around

The villages are all a stone’s throw away from the historic market town of Sudbury.

Set on the River Stour, Sudbury – which has a population of over 13,000 – is famous for being the birthplace of one of the most important British artists of the 18th century, Thomas Gainsborough.

Just over 60 miles from London and 20 miles from Ipswich, by road, Sudbury is the gateway to Suffolk from the south, with easy access to the M11, A14, A12 and Stansted Airport.

Just over 60 miles from London, 20 miles from Ipswich, and with its own train station on the Gainsborough branch line, you can even visit car free. Sudbury is easily accessible by road, rail – or even river!

By rail, from London, Ipswich or Colchester, you can take the train to Marks Tey and change for the branch line to Sudbury, which traverses the picturesque Stour Valley landscape.

Bus services run regularly to and from nearby historic towns and villages, including the other ‘Wool Towns’: Lavenham, Hadleigh, Clare

and Long Melford. Services also run from Bury St. Edmunds, Colchester and Ipswich.

Sudbury is also accessible by bike on National Cycle Network Route 13, which joins with the beautiful and traffic-free Valley Trail connecting Sudbury to Long Melford.

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Sudbury Water Meadows by Bill Hiskett

Gainsborough’s statue in Sudbury town centre

Image by Rachel Price

imagery courtesy of Visit Su olk

With over 25 years of experience in the building industry, here at Alpha Group, we pride ourselves on being builders that you can trust. We understand that having building work carried out on your home is a big investment, and one that you will want to be sure is in safe hands.

We can help you create the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams, whether you’re looking for a complete redesign or a more modest makeover. We have the knowledge, experience, and tradespeople to make it happen.

Trust the experts

Get the inside information on South Suffolk’s towns and villages from the people in the know – our very own Sudbury team!

Sudbury and the surrounding area is popular with tourists and residents alike. With its proximity to the coast, but still with access to the major towns and London, Suffolk remains a great place to live.

Our Sudbury team are experts in the area and all live locally, so they really know what they are talking about when it comes to where to buy or rent property here.

By Angela Jeffery, Branch Manager

Lavenham

This delightful village has seen average sale prices over the last 12 months outperform those of the East of England average, which is testament to its ongoing popularity. Lavenham is a popular draw for tourists and is typified by a great deal of listed properties and half-timbered cottages, which are typical of the area.

It is well connected to surrounding towns and

villages such as Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds, and Long Melford with a bus service and is an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding Suffolk countryside and coast.

Lavenham is a thriving village with a strong community spirit. It is a hub of independent boutique shops and galleries, fantastic restaurants, chic hotels, luxury holiday cottages, plenty of cafes and pubs, and has a full diary of events and activities for locals and visitors alike.

Long Melford

As a resident in the village, I can highly recommend it as a place to live. Here, average sale prices over the last 12 months have outperformed the East of England average.

Long Melford is a few miles from the main market town of Sudbury where a wider range of shopping and leisure facilities can be found. Long Melford has a wide range of shopping facilities, including galleries, boutique stores, a Co-operative store, doctor’s surgery, primary school and the two stately homes of Kentwell Hall and Melford Hall.

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It is impossible to live in Long Melford without being aware of its very special place in local history. The name Melford is derived from ‘mill’ and ‘ford’, and ‘Long’ refers to the 2.5-miles high street, which is reputed to be the longest in England.

By Alison Sparkes, Office Administrator Great Cornard

Great Cornard is a popular, large village within a short drive of the market town of Sudbury and where I just happen to live, so I know the village very well! The village offers a wide range of shopping and leisure facilities, including doctor’s surgery, primary and secondary schools, and a range of shops with new build developments underway in the area. Sudbury itself offers an excellent range of leisure and shopping facilities as well as a branch rail link to London’s Liverpool Street station via Marks Tey.

Are you moving house and need a survey?

Have you purchased a new build and need a snagging report?

Do you need an aerial drone survey for a roof?

Need help controlling your budget and Project Managing your extension/refurbishment or new build?

We offer the following services

Condition Survey – Level 1

Homebuyers Report – Level 3

Building Survey – Level 3

Drone Survey

New Build Snagging Inspection

New Build and Extension/Refurbishment Cost & Project Management

info@wright-surveys.co.uk

www.wright-surveys.co.uk

By Suzy Corder, Branch Co-ordinator

Acton

This quiet village just north of Sudbury is known for its airfield, which provides a great backdrop for country walks. Acton is well served with the nearby Sudbury train station providing regular services to Marks Tey, connecting you to Colchester in 30 minutes, and London Liverpool Street in just an hour and 15 minutes.

This peaceful village offers a local shop, village hall, church and the local public house. There’s a primary school, a small traditional village school, while the nearby Ormiston Academy in Sudbury and Thomas Gainsborough School in Great Cornard both offer secondary education and specialist sixth forms.

Sudbury

As I live in Sudbury, I know the area very well. A town market takes place twice per week and there is a wide variety of shops on offer in the town, and with the train station being so nearby, the average journey time between Sudbury and London Liverpool Street is just 1 hour 45 minutes. Trains to Sudbury traverse the River Stour before coming to rest

Team spotlight

a short walk from the water. Belle Vue Park is a lovely spot for kicking back and watching the world go by, there are beautiful lawns and floral displays. Sudbury has seen average growth in house prices of 17% over the last five years and a number of new build developments are underway in and around the town.

By Lucy Kingston, Sales/Lettings Negotiator

Newton

The main feature of the village, as you drive through on the A134, is the Village Green. The green is unusual in that it accommodates eight of the 18 holes of the Newton Green Golf Club, and on a bright day there can be few more picturesque views than can be seen from one of the many

benches on the green or from the beer garden at the Saracen’s Head. Newton boasts a varied housing stock from impressive new-build properties to listed homes close to the golf course.

Glemsford

The Suffolk village of Glemsford stands on a hill overlooking the rivers Stour and Glem, from which it takes its name. It is one of the largest villages in the county. The church is a wonderful flint Perpendicular building, with a 14th century west tower. Glemsford boast lots of charm and benefits from several small shops, a doctor’s surgery, local school and public houses. Glemsford is primarily rural in nature and offers an array of country walks. Here, terraced cottages form a typical part of the housing stock and property prices are still accessible for those starting out on the housing ladder.

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Kentwell Hall, Long Melford

TAKING THOSE FIRST STEPS

The property market remains a challenging environment to navigate, particularly for first-time buyers. Property expert David Hannah, Group Chairman of property tax specialists, Cornerstone Tax, provides his top five tips for those looking to step onto the property ladder.

1. Understand what you can afford

“You need to understand what you can afford; this is a very important tip. If you take on too much mortgage debt and put too much of a strain on your monthly or weekly budget, you’re going to run into trouble and that’s just going to lead to a load of stress. Every first-time buyer needs to make sure that the mortgage payment that you are committing yourself to is a reasonable fraction of your earnings. If you stretch it too far or don’t fix the rate, you could find yourself in trouble.”

2. Stamp Duty

“Make sure that your stamp duty calculation is correct. It’s little known that one-in-four stamp duty calculations on purchases are wrong, and with first-time buyers paying 5% on the amount of the purchase price on properties between £425,001 and £625,000, it’s an important cost to consider. If you have a particular property in mind or a particular type of property, it’s worth getting it calculated definitively. It’s important to do this before you go to your mortgage application because it could have a key impact on you not getting the right figure and walking away from a deal that you could actually afford.”

3. Understand your budgets

“Understand how you budget and how your budgets can run away with you. New-build homes tend to come with guarantees meaning that minor repairs and defects are covered out of the developer’s costs. If you buy a second-hand home, however, these costs can’t be claimed from anybody else. If you don’t have a proper survey and an understanding of the state of repair of the property before you buy it, you could be faced with substantial bills for such things as rewiring or a new roof if you didn’t have that anticipated before the purchase.”

4. Consider renting a room

“Realise that there are ways to make your homeownership more affordable. With the increase in house prices over the last 50 years and the shortfall in available rental properties, many homeowners are turning to renting a room. This is obviously an intrusion on your

Life hacks

family life, but if you vet the room renter carefully, then you can end up with an income of as much as £500 a month. You can earn up to £7,500 a year tax free using the rent a room allowance and this can help offset the cost of mortgaging even if you’re a first-time buyer.”

5. Location, location, location

“Buyers need to not just focus on the property but also get to know the area you’re moving to – don’t just look at the unit, look at the site. If you’re looking at a new building, work out where all the other properties are going to be – are you going to be overlooked or does your property back onto a major road?

It’s important to understand what the levels of noise are likely to be in your area. You need to look at where the local amenities are – if you’re a first-time buyer and you’re thinking of starting a family, you need to consider where shops and schools are located and if they are commutable or within walking distance.”

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boydens.co.uk

170 years of providing a true personal service

We are a family business that began five generations ago.

The Boydens story dates back to 1852 with George Boyden, a master builder and Quaker, who started his own business, later led by his son, Aston Boyden, until World War II broke out.

After Aston’s death in 1947, his son, Desmond Boyden, was too young to join the building business immediately, so studied engineering and worked for a commercial chartered surveyors firm in London and

then Colchester, specialising in residential property and farms.

In 1966, Desmond set up his own residential property business, initially at Blackheath, Colchester. and then at Balkerne House in Crouch Street. Following expansion, the business moved next door to Aston House in 1988, where it has been based ever since.

Desmond’s son, David Boyden, joined the family business in 1976. In partnership with his father, he built Boydens’ reputation, taking the best of the family

ethos – and blending it with a modern approach – to further expand the business.

After graduating from university with a degree in Rural Property Management, Philip Boyden joined the family business in 2014.

Today, David and Philip work alongside each other and the dedicated teams that make up Boydens’ branches across North Essex and South Suffolk: Coastal; Colchester; Sudbury; and West Essex.

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“True personal service has always been a Boydens priority. We have a great deal to be proud of and a lot to look forward to, as we continue to service our clients with the confidence and values that they have come to expect from us.”

David Boyden, Managing Director

“Being part of a family firm is a source of great pride to me. Dad and I share the same core values and continued commitment to ensuring that we remain the trusted, family-owned estate agency that truly cares.”

Philip Boyden, Director, Senior Property Consultant

With Christmas upon us and the children back at school, many families will be considering moving home now.

Attwells move their clients on average 3 weeks faster than other firms* which may mean you are in your new home for Christmas or the start of the new year.