Brik Property Magazine - Q4 2021 by Ben Littlewood

Q4 21 LONDON PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

2021

KNOCK-ON

The world is changing. So is the market.

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CONTENTS £ £

Brexit, Coronavirus, the markets, a new president... It seems now, more than ever, there are more major factors at play at the same time. How will they affect the market and subsequently our own property market here in leafy Fulham?

Ruxton Rise Residence is based on a clients’ three key values for life; family, health, and integrity. The home isn’t just a physical structure, but a structure of the family’s beliefs.

Despite the somewhat villainous stereotype, there are alot of landlords out there with good intentions, both for themselves, and their tenants. Can you be a good landlord? That’s easy, of course you can.

26 TAPPING-IN

32 SELLER’S GUIDE

Make a bold statement with these highend taps and showerheads.

The London exodus. Is leaving a smart play?

KNOCK ON

RUXTON RESIDENCE

PLAYING THE VILLAIN

Highlighting recent renovations and refurbishments carried out by London's finest developers and designers.

10 BRIKOLAGE

16 INTERIOR DESIGN Whether you are planning small or large projects, there are ways to achieve some feel-good factors with a nod to the protection of our loving planet.

20 PRETTY LITTLE THINGS Made in Britain, Built to Last www.roundhousedesign.com

22 BUYER’S GUIDE

29 HOME 2.0

Commonhold; already the norm in other parts of the world, and is now gaining popularity in the UK.

Staying fit this Winter. Don't train hard, train smart.

36 PROPERTY GALLERY

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34 SHOWCASE

CONTRIBUTORS

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JOSH WOODFIN Property Journalist

MARC DA SILVA Property Journalist

ROSS MURPHY Capricorn Financial

Josh Woodfin is a writer and editor with nearly 10 years' experience including credits with the Guardian, House, Esquire, and numerous other high-profile magazines and websites. His interests include antique maps, cooking with fish, and post-apocalyptic thrillers. He once beat Usain Bolt in a race... with an 80-metre head start.

Property journalist, Marc Da Silva, has an encyclopedic knowledge of all things property having written for a range of publications, including the Daily Mail, Daily Express, Sunday Business Post and A Place in the Sun, amongst others.

Ross is one of the Senior Advisers & Team Leaders with CFC, where he has worked since graduating from University of Manchester in 2010. Since 2014, Ross has been consistently ranked in the Top-2 Advisers in the UK by volume of lending PA.

TRACEY ANDREWS Tracey Andrews Interiors

MIKE HORNE Brik Co-Founder

Tracey is an accomplished interior designer and has been in the industry for over 20 years. She creates beautifully crafted interiors with a keen interest in well-being within them. Formerly expertise in curtain design, and renovated furniture.

Having over 18 years experience in agency, working for some of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big names, Mike co-founded Brik in 2008. He now works alongside his co-founders in achieving their goal of reinventing estate agency from the ground up.

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PROPERTY MARKET

KNOCK-ON What to expect from 2021

WORDS

MARC DA SILVA Property Journalist

That, of course, is something of an understatement when placed in the context of the global untethering brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, a feral US election and our own domestic problems in the form of Brexit (because regardless of your views on the EU, it’s hard to deny that Brexit has been an undeniably tough nut to crack).

HELLO, MR. PRESIDENT After four long years, the Trump presidency is over. This is potentially a good thing for not only America, but the entire planet. The most powerful job in the world is now back in the hands of someone more, predictable. Phew. But what does this mean for the UK, and even more specifically, the UK housing market? A lot has been said of the US/UK ‘special relationship’ but the UK government may have some

making up to do, with some reports saying President Elect Biden and his inner circle are not fans of some of the government’s decisions. Biden's made strong commitments

A lot has been said of the US/UK ‘special relationship’ but the UK government may have some making up to do, with some reports saying President Elect Biden and his inner circle are not fans of some of the government’s decisions. to tackling climate change, boosting access to health care, addressing the lack of affordable housing and confronting racial inequality. All good things. This will partly be paid for by large tax hikes, mostly on the wealthy, reversing some of

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ewind to this time last year and, post-Christmas blues aside, you might have been excited about the coming year. You probably had some big plans on the table… maybe you were looking to make a big career move, do some serious travelling, or get a series of nice city breaks in. Or maybe you were planning a big home move. Well, if 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that plans can change.

But we have adapted, endured and got very proficient at checking we’re muted during Zoom calls. So, with vaccines shining a cautious light at the end of the tunnel, the news that the White House will have Democrats in charge again, and Brexit, for better or worse, reaching a conclusion of sorts, it seems that we can return to that favoured January past-time of making plans. With that in mind, here’s our shortlist of the ongoing events shaping our lives and how they might affect property prices throughout the year and beyond.

KNOCK-ON INCOMING Like a bad film, the virus swept onto the world stage, catching each country and every economy with their faces uncovered and their hands dirty. Like it or not, a new order had begun.

OUT WITH THE OLD IN WITH NEW Airborne problems aside, the UK is still in a sticky situation with the EU and with President Biden's pro-EU positioning it's not likely to get any easier for the island. More force may be needed to plough through but that may result in even more chaos.

8 brik.co.uk KNOCK-ON The vaccine and the Stamp Duty Holiday pumped the property market since August 2020. With fall-out from the virus yet to properly hit, property prices are predicted by some to drop by 14% this year as investors take profits from inflated financial markets and uncertainty returns.

BIG SPENDER The new President will change geo-politics and with the worlds largest economy looking like it will go on a spending spree of $4Tn dollars in the next three years (according to Moodys), it looks like the theme of spending our way out of trouble will continue... This will be good news in the short term at least. Though no guarantees long term!

PROPERTY MARKET

Trump's $1.5 trillion in tax cuts and will offset almost two-thirds of his spending commitments. Biden is pro-Europe, but substantial issues still remain, with the Financial Times stating in November: ‘Trade tensions with Beijing, too, are likely to persist. Experts expect trade wars to continue — but ones that will be waged in back rooms and not over Twitter.’ Nevertheless with Biden expected to spend an additional $4tn in the three years to 2024 (according to the credit rating agency Moody’s) this is only a good for the short term.

How will this affect the housing market? Well, a return to normality would obviously be a positive, but it will be competing with some negatives. Property in 2020, and more specifically the summer months, bucked the trend and led to a mini boom. Helped by pent up

demand from the first lockdown in Spring, and the Stamp Duty holiday, the Bank of England reported the number of mortgage approvals for house purchase continued increasing sharply in September to 91,500 from 85,500 in August. This was the highest number of approvals since September 2007, and is 24% higher than approvals in February 2020. Approvals in September were around 10 times higher than the 9,300 approvals in May. Households also borrowed an additional £4.8bn secured on their homes, following borrowing of £3bn in August. MORE UPHEAVAL ON THE HORIZON Some economists argue that this is because the property market has been largely insulated from the crisis due to many of the redundancies affecting young people who tend to be renters, rather than owners. But this could all change in 2021. “The housing market has remained robust,” said Robert Gardner, Nationwide’s chief economist. “However, activity is likely to slow in the coming quarters, perhaps sharply, if the labour market weakens as most analysts expect, especially once the stamp duty holiday expires in March.”

This combination of factors – growing unemployment at the end of the furlough schemes, Brexit uncertainty, the continuing pandemic around the world – have contributed to the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) predicting that house prices could fall by 14% in 2021. If this becomes a reality, it’s not good news for sellers, but it could present an opportunity for buyers who have a healthy deposit in place – the number of which will be affected by the bank’s rollback of low interest rate mortgages.

Approvals in September were around 10 times higher than the 9,300 approvals in May. Households also borrowed an additional £4.8bn secured on their homes Combine the above with the UK's national debt rising above £2trillion for the first time in August, and tax increases are all but inevitable. Increases in capital gains tax, and even a 5% tax on those working from home have all been proposed, but the cancellation of the Autumn budget left many experts guessing at what may happen in 2021. But one thing’s for sure, we’re not out of the woods yet, and there are still a lot of unanswered questions. Let's hope the raging 20s which started out so angry settle down to the relaxed 20s as soon as scientifically possible.

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A TRULY MARVELLOUS MEDICINE Forget Nike, Supreme and Dior, the most coveted brands of 2021 are going to be Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZenica. In a victory for the power of science, it was these companies – along with partnerships with other educational and research institutions – that have provided the best, real hope of an end to the pandemic. How, when and who will get the vaccines first was still unclear at the time of writing, but the sharp rise in the stock markets following each successful announcement indicates confidence and ambition for as swift a return to normal life as possible. But tiered restrictions will still be in place until at least March.

The housing market has remained robust, said Robert Gardner, Nationwide’s chief economist.

NEWS & INTERESTS

BRIKOLAGE WHISKEY BAR ARCHITECTURE Sichuan, China

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Unlike so many bar designers, Wooton Designers took the typical manly whiskey bar ethos and morphed it when they designed Inns Whiskey Bar. The bar is located in Chengdu, the 7.8 million-inhabitant capital of Sichuan Province where bars of every kind can be found. To stand out, you must do a bit more than just the minimum. For more than four months, Wooton Designers and the construction team worked at transforming the simple, nearly rectangular 150 square metre (10.7 sq.ft) space into something where the patrons could actually feel whiskey, not just drink it.

OAK TRAIL

KNOCK-ON

ADVENTURE

ON THE COVER

Epping Forest District

Last century the 20s were referred to as the Roaring Twenties because it was a decade of economic growth and widespread prosperity, driven by recovery from World War 1. The world is at war again with a Corona Virus, this time around although the death rate is ten times less (so far) the economic effect is likely to be just as devastating. With 2020 in the rear view let us all hope we will also enjoy our own version of The Roaring Twenties albeit with more booze!

Set right on the fringes of the city, making it an ideal day trip from London, Epping Forest is one of the capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest green spaces spanning an area of 6,000 acres. Within its ancient woods wanderers will stumble across lakes, ponds, fallow and Muntjac deer, bats, toads and English Longhorn cows that graze and maintain the land.

NEWS & INTERESTS

COFFEE TABLE FURNITURE

FULHAM SCHOOL LOCAL NEWS

Good news! Fulham Boys School, a school pioneered by members of the local area, moves to its flagship site on Fulham Road in Spring 2021. Mirroring this, two local parents have set up Inspire Fulham – a company dedicated to managing the out of hours lettings of this site, for use as a venue to the community for holiday clubs, sports activities, markets and pop-ups. For enquiries contact info@inspirefulham.co.uk

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It looks like a normal coffee table – one that you can use to hold your pocket dumps or put your feet up while watching TV. Except, the Coolest Coffee Table’s thick wooden façade hides a bevy of functions that allow it do so much more. The Coolest Coffee Table actually comes with a miniature pop-up table in the middle, giving you a flat surface at a height that’s more in line with the dining table in the kitchen. This makes that minitable ideal for setting down food and drinks, so you can actually have dinner in front of the TV without having to hunch over uncomfortably. Fold down a panel on one side of the coffee table to reveal a power hub with two AC sockets and two USB ports, so you can charge everything from phones and game controllers to laptops and even a microwave, in case you want to make the popcorn without having to walk to the kitchen.

INTERIOR & DESIGN

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INTERIOR & DESIGN

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INSPIRATION TRANSMISSION Ruxton Residence STUDIOFOUR

uxton Rise Residence is based on the clients’ three key values for life; family, health, and integrity. The home isn’t just a physical structure, but a structure of the family’s beliefs. The objective was to create a little bit of something precious rather than a lot of something mediocre. At its core, the design for this home was based on an exploration the client's desired way of living and providing the physical

framework necessary for this ideal, and for the families’ beliefs to be realized. The brief for this home was to celebrate the beauty in the ordinary things of everyday life and the design was led by the fundamental principle that simplicity enables idleness, and the time spend idle makes for a healthier state of mind. When idle, we tend to want less and are more at peace when we get it.

LANDLORD’S GUIDE

PLAYING THE VILLAIN Do landlords really deserve their bad reputation?

WORDS

JOSH WOODFIN Property Journalist

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n every medium, be it on screen, on stage, in a book or as part of a piece of music, landlords get a bad rep. They’re evil, greedy and have nothing but disrespect for their tenants. Unfortunately, there are countless instances where this is absolutely the case. But what about those who got into the game with good intentions, both for themselves, and their tenants. Can you be a good landlord? That’s easy, of course you can.

Along with the rest of the world, landlords had a difficult 2020. Many were faced with tenants who were unable to pay rent, resulting in horrible conversations, diminishing yields and even personal financial difficulties, if the margins were fine. Government support was offered to landlords during the crisis, but as with all programmes, these were

not one size fits all. With that in mind, what does it take to become a landlord? And, perhaps more importantly, is now the right time? BECOMING A LANDLORD First things first, you need a property to rent. You may already have a property, or you may be looking for a buy to let. If it’s the former, you need to make sure you can legally rent your property. If it’s a leasehold, you’ll need to check the terms regarding subletting. And even if you own the property, you will need to make sure that renting the property out is compatible with your mortgage, insurance and other commitments.

94% of landlords in England operated as private individuals rather than as part of a company and on average earn £15,000 a year before tax and other deductions.

HOW INVOLVED DO YOU WANT TO BE? So, you’ve got a property, you have all the relevant legal and safety documents in place. Now you need to think about how involved you want to be. Becoming a landlord comes with its own set of responsibilities to your tenants. Your options are you advertise and manage your property, or you work with an agency. HOW MUCH MONEY WILL YOU MAKE? The idea that landlords are universally wealthy and living in mansions in the country is incorrect. Those landlords absolutely exist, but a majority earn a modest income from buy-to-let property that supplements other earnings. The findings from a 2019 Private Landlords Survey, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), showed that 94% of landlords in England operated as private individuals rather than as part of a company and on average earn £15,000 a year before tax and other

COMMON ASSUMPTIONS

JUST IN IT FOR THE MONEY

NO HOME IMPROVEMENTS

GOODBYE DEPOSIT!

In Fulham, it’s a rarity to come across a particularly

A big fear of most tenants; the landlord keeps

battered and bruised rental simply because the

the deposit and there’s nothing you can do

in the last few years things have changed

standards are that much higher, but that doesn’t

about it. Not true, especially if the property

drastically, especially in Fulham. Tax and

mean you still don’t get them. The landlords that

is respected whilst being lived in. A certain

regulatory changes, along with the very

do invest in renovating their properties between

amount of wear and tear is unavoidable in rental properties. Over time as tenants live in homes,

recent tenant fee ban have meant a smaller

tenancies are easily able to achieve higher rental

and smaller piece of the pie for landlords. The

values. In a previous issue, we correlated the

some damage will occur, however this won’t

typical reason people buy-to-let nowadays

rental value of over fifty, two bed flats based on

and shouldn’t be taken from the deposit and

isn't for the rental profit but for the capital

their condition vs rental value. On average, the

inventory clerks know this. Deposits must be

appriciation; obviously this is the real world and

ones that presented better achieved £85 more

placed in tenancy deposit protection schemes

it makes no sense to leave a property vaccent

per week, amounting to £4,500 over the course of

and if at the end of the tenancy there are any

for 10 years, so they're rented-out. Just because

the year. It's definately worth a fresh coat of paint

disputes about the amount to be returned, it’ll

prices are at an all-time high doesn't mean it

though some landlords still struggle to make the

be handed to an adjudicator who typically sides

always converts directly into profit.

connection.

with the tenants. Fear not, your money is safe.

deductions. How much you make depends on your situation, the type of property and its quality and location. CAN YOU BE AN ETHICAL LANDLORD? Short answer: absolutely, but it does take work. Understanding your tenant’s situation is key. For example, how long you offer the tenancy will be a big factor,

especially for young families or anyone in higher education. Property Investor Today cites research from Shelter that shows over two thirds of tenants would like to stay longer than the six or 12 month Assured Shorthold Tenancy (ASTs) agreement usually offered to them. And as a landlord, rent increases will be one of the most difficult situations to navigate. It’s bad business not to follow market

changes, but there’s a right and wrong way to increase rent. Give your tenants as much warning as possible, and increase the rent a reasonable amount that’s in line with the changing market. Basically, don’t get greedy. Maybe it is time the perception of the draconian private Landlord should be consigned to the history books. Help make it a reality.

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Sure, maybe back in the day when properties were cheaper and had a higher yield, however

Meaningful interiors - Comforting and welcoming

INTERIOR & DESIGN

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WELL-BEING INTERIORS WORDS

TRACEY ANDREWS Tracey Andrews Interiors

here is no doubt that 2020 was an enduring year for us all. With a worldwide pandemic at our feet and an ever more challenge to combat climate change, it was no wonder we were left shaken. Our daily life was turned upside down a pivotal year for questioning of values, shifted our perspectives beyond belief. The message and lesson learnt - that we should not take for granted what we have.

2021 IS A NEW BEGINNING Commonplace, interior designers are accelerating their use of environmentally safe products and materials, forging ahead to address the issues. Furthermore, the importance of well-being within the spaces created come into more focus. Whether you are planning small or large projects, there are ways to achieve some feel-good factors with a nod to the protection of our loving planet. NEW YEAR’S PLANNING The new year is always a perfect time for a fresh start, and metaphorically speaking - ‘put our

‘green’ houses in order’. As a nation, we are devoted to the interior design of our homes, particularly now as we spend more and more time in them. We have always been proud of making spaces individual to ourselves and reflecting how we feel. CHOOSE NATURAL PRODUCTS. Choose natural and recyclable materials. Paint is one of the most widely used material in any project. You may be surprised to learn that Dulux use 35 % recycled paint, and The Little Greene Company have always been committed to protecting the environment with

Photo credit: Arreditalia, Bespoke Furniture for kitchens and bathrooms, London

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Photo credit: Arreditalia, Bespoke Furniture for kitchens and bathrooms, London

THE PALACE GARDENER

INTERIOR & DESIGN

Photo Credit. Andrew Martin, Walton St ,London,Walton St, London,SW3 2JL

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water and vegetable oil-based paints, wallpapers sourced from FSC and PETC certified sustainable forests. Find sustainable wallpaper from Eco Deco with some natural textures that fit with so many schemes. Be cautious about throwing away wallpaper - most are non-recyclable due to a coated layer of vinyl or polythene. KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS Kitchens are hubs of the home, a place to cook, eat and socialise, a showpiece for the overall value and feel of your house. According to a recent Houzz survey, nearly 60% of us are opening up our kitchens to other rooms, and 35% are knocking walls down to create more space. January and February are notoriously a time to start rethinking not only the design and function but what sustainable materials you could use. Steam showers and saunas favoured in Bathrooms, a place to reboot and feel revitalised.

MORE MEANINGFUL INTERIORS. Meaningful interiors are ones that contain the philosophy that they influence us every day in many ways. What we place in them will create memories forever and will influence choices in the future. It is important how you feel within a space. Think boutique hotels – how they draw you into an envelope of comfort and revitalise you. Consider recycling a used kitchen or use recycled materials from scratch. These create a back story or talking point. CREATURES OF HABIT We are such creatures of habit that we naturally reach out for the ready available rather than the traditional and individualistic approach, usually due to lack of time. By collaborating with artisans and local business will not only gain bespoke items but also help keep alive diminishing crafts and boost the economy. Recycle where you can and dismiss

the throughway society, we have become accustomed. REINVENTION As well as being mindful of that we care there is always a license to escape! There’s nothing quite like a bit of escapism. Create spaces that leave your cares behind you, gathering inspiration from places you have travelled to and visit inspiring shops to fill them! One of my favourite haunts for furniture and accessories a little on the wild side is Andrew Martin on Walton St, London. Here you will discover unique designs of ancient travellers’ pieces and a vibrant blend of global furniture and lighting to transport you. BIOPHILIA DESIGN A subject I will touch on more in the spring. Biophilia concerns nature, our association with it and how it can benefit well-being. Next time!

INTERIOR & DESIGN

Responsive & Reliable Property Management

Ms E.E

What our 5-star service can do for you: One point of contact throughout | Direct contact with your property manager until 9pm Monday-Friday | Deal directly with your tenants Arrange all relevant safety certificates | Excellent relationships with contractors | Regular property visits | Vacant management and secure key holding | 24 hour emergency out of hours maintenance company

4.8

(185)

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Hollie has been doing a great job in managing our property for us. She always responds very quickly and efficiently to emails and work on the property

INTERIOR & DESIGN

PRETTY LITTLE THINGS

INTERIOR & DESIGN

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BUYER’S GUIDE

HOUSE OF COMMONS Commonhold: A new type of property ownership

WORDS

Josh Woodfin Property Journalist

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ny homeowner will know the difference between freehold and leasehold properties, but how much do you know about the third option: commonhold? This type of ownership is already the norm in other parts of the world, and is now gaining popularity in the UK. Read on for a simple explainer about what it is and how you might benefit from it.

The Leasehold Advisory Service describes commonhold as: ‘a new type of property ownership. It is an alternative to the long leasehold system. It allows you to own the freehold of individual flats, houses and non-residential units in a building or on an estate. Unlike leasehold, there is no limit on how long you can own the property for.’

As of last year, there were only around 20 properties under commonhold in the UK, but the discussions are gaining traction. A commonhold property can only be created out of freehold land, or a freehold building, and comes into effect when the land is registered at the Land Registry. This type of property is appealing for many reasons, not least because buying (and selling) a commonhold property should be simpler than a leasehold property. There is no reducing term (the length of time left on a lease) or ground rent, for example. The unit-holder of commonhold property also owns the freehold interest to its unit, rather than a diminishing leasehold interest. This means commonhold properties

may attract a premium if, and when you do come to sell. But probably the biggest difference between leasehold and commonhold is the absence of a landlord in the latter agreement. No landlord means no ground rent, which will be extremely appealing to anyone who’s experienced soaring ground rent throughout their leasehold. In a commonhold, there is a company to which any commonhold owners are added as members. Everyone in the company works together for the common good of all their properties. That’s the idea, at least, the agreement cannot factor in the nuances of human behaviour, unfortunately. As of last year, there were only around 20 properties under commonhold in the UK, but the discussions are gaining traction. Some more general positives when comparing commonhold to leasehold are.

NO LEASE TO EXTEND The 1993 Leasehold Reform Act ensures most leasehold owners have 90-year lease, but if there is less time on the lease, extending it can be costly. In commonhold there’s no lease, so no lease to extend.

COLLABORATION (HOPEFULLY) When you’re a leasehold owner, you’re effectively still in a landlord / tenant situation. Commonhold provides real agency for you and your fellow commonhold owners. However, this obviously doesn’t come without risks. You may have heard horror stories from people with the share of a freehold encountering difficulties with fellow freehold owners when making repairs or big changes. There would be similar potential problems with commonhold.

A E S 23

? ?

FREEDOM TO CHOOSE Many leaseholds have restrictions on everything from pet ownership to scale of renovations. Often these can be historic which are dropped into a lease with little scrutiny, but with commonhold there are no such problems.

? ?

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Lower costs

REDUCED CONVEYANCING COSTS According to the Law Commission, a system of commonhold ownership would help make conveyancing more straightforward, potentially reduce costs and remove a third party (the landlord) from the equation, further simplifying the process.

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LUXU RY O UT D O O R F U R N ITU R E

TANDEM BY EGO PARIS

L E I S U R E P LA N .CO.U K SH OWROOM LEISURE PLAN, STANSTED MOUNTFITCHET, ESSEX, CM24 8HD

FINANCE

PICKING UP Ross Murphy offers his expert advice on 2021's financial landscape

WORDS

ROSS MURPHY

Capricorn Financial

What impact has the news of vaccines had on the mortgage market? Have lenders reintroduced products/options at 90% LTV? Will lenders now accept bonus income towards affordability? Will interest rates start to fall for lending options above 75% LTV? At this stage, patience is very much the order of the day. The mortgage marketplace is made-up of a number ‘supertankers’ and getting them to adjust

UK GDP 2017 - 2021 2%

2017

1.5%

2018

2019

-10%

2020

2021

What options exist for clients looking to purchase £1m+ property at 80% + LTV? Whilst the highstreet banks and building societies

have shied away from this ‘riskier’ business, a number Private Banks have stepped into the breach. At present, it is not uncommon to find Private Banks offering more competitive products/structures than the high-street, especially for clients looking to borrow more than £1m at 80%+ LTV. Furthermore, Private Banks are still willing and able to accept a large proportion of annual bonus towards mortgage ‘affordability’. For borrowers that meet the ‘minimum’ criteria for approaching Private Banks – £300k+ PA Income or £3m+ Net Assets – this is likely to remain a reliable alternative to securing finance versus High Street for the foreseeable. For borrowers that can put down large deposits of at least 40% of purchase price, rates/products have never been cheaper! Finance is readily available on a five-year fixed-rate basis at approx. 1.5% PA, giving borrowers peace of mind and certainty in the long-term. Despite all the wider-concerns over COVID-19, lending at these LTV’s is still deemed a safe bet by the UK’s Banks & Building Societies.

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f the headlines are to be believed, the world’s leading pharmaceutical firms are on the cusp of releasing a variety of vaccines to help in the fight against COVID-19. Finally, it seems, we are on the brink of a credible alternative to Lockdowns, Restrictions, and general disruption to our daily lives – hallelujah! Stock markets have rejoiced at the results from AstraZenecaOxford University, Moderna & Pfizer-BioNTech, and the world has breathed a sigh of relief that ‘normal life’ will be very much back on the menu for 2021.

their lending policy and criteria is by no means an overnight fix; lenders will be keen to understand what impact COVID-19 will have on unemployment before they make any adjustments to their current heading. In reality, it is unlikely there will be any radical changes to the current market ‘equilibrium’ until Q2/Q3 2021 i.e. higher rates at 75% + LTV and a distinct lack of options/ products at 90% + LTV will remain for the time-being.

INTERIOR & DESIGN

TAPPING-IN Give your bathroom & kitchen that twist of originality

KALANDULA MODERN

MILANO AMARA

FOHËN FLEX

£260 | andrewmartin.com

£139 | bigbathroomshop.com

£700 | fohen.co.uk

Make a bold statement with the Kalandula modern bathroom taps. This fiendishly sleek bathroom mixer tap is silky smooth to the touch and has the most satisfying on/off action.

Perfect for use with countertop basins with no tap-holes, this high rise mixer tap is the perfect combination of modern design and superb functionality.

Standard hot and cold water dispensed effortlessly to your desired temperature and flow rate through the easy to use swivel mixer lever.

MPRO TAP

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CROSSWATER REVIVE

BASIN MIXER TAP

£246 | victoriaplumbing.co.uk

£450 | drench.co.uk

£75 | homary.com

The MPRO collection delivers on function, style and quality for a look that encapsulates a modern elegance that’s second to none.

Mounted on your wall, this sleek and stylish shower head will deliver not only an overhead rainfall stream of water but also a relaxing, spa-like waterfall.

With a creative and fashionable design, this single hole deck mounted waterfall spout bathroom sink faucet brings an angular, modern and bold look.

RAINFALL SHOWER

AREZZO ROUN

UNION

£200 | manomano.co.uk

£100 | victorianplumbing.co.uk

£416 | sanctuarybathrooms.co.uk

This stunning matt black slim square concealed thermostatic mixer valve shower set is a perfect addition to any modern designer bathroom.

The Arezzo round matt brushed brass fixed shower head with arm, it's chic minimalist design will bring a touch of sophistication to any bathroom.

Add distinctive styling to your bathroom with the Union 1 tap hole basin mixer, featuring an inspired industrial look with knurled detail and a classic brushed brass finish.

VELLAMO TOUCH

LUSSO ELEGANCE

RUBEZA EMERY

£150 | tapwarehouse.com

£185 | lussostone.com

A kitchen mixer tap with touch technology - touch any part of the tap spout to turn it on effortlessly.

The Lusso Elegance Brushed Gold Pull Out Kitchen Mixer Tap is a sophisticated addition to any kitchen.

£300 | rubeza.com White and gold basin mixer tap with anti-fingerprint material, brass body and brass handles.

INTERIOR & DESIGN

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Template and fit of bespoke stone solutions

Featured Bathroom: Calcatta Oro slab 20mm Tel: 020 8871 1191 | www.marble-city.co.uk

GADGETS

HOME 2.0 A round up of the latest home exercise equipment to keep you fit this winter

WORDS

JOSH WOODFIN Property Journalist

PELOTON Available as a spin bike or treadmill, Peloton lets you join a community of fitness fanatics and some of the best trainers and coaches in the world. For a monthly fee, you get access to new live workouts streaming every day and thousands of pre-recorded on-demand classes, including yoga, weight training, and more. The bike and running machine, while not small, are very stylish and have been designed to be as compact as possible.

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£1750 | onepeloton.co.uk

TEMP STUDIO Similarly to Peloton, Temp Studio gives you access to top trainers at home, except this time the focus is on weightlifting. Along with the large easel shaped screen, where you’ll follow classes, you get a 25-pound barbell, 16 weight plates, two dumbbells, six collars (for securing plates on the barbell or dumbbells), a heart-rate monitor, workout mat, and foam roller. £1995 | tempo.fit

GADGETS

MIRROR Arguably the most stylish and futuristic item on the list, Mirror is like something straight out of science fiction. When not in use, Mirror is just that – a large, chic wall-mounted mirror. But with the flick of an app you’ll get live and on-demand workouts including cardio, kettlebell and resistance band training, yoga, boxing, pilates, and more, with up to 50 new classes added every week. £1495 | mirror.co

FIGHTCAMP For all the aspiring Rocky’s out there, FightCamp lets you access training classes through your smart TV. Your training will be tracked by sensors in your hand wraps, capturing every jab you throw at the free-standing punch bag that comes as part of the package. You also get floor mats and gloves. Ding ding, round one!

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£1350 | joinfightcamp.com

ERGATTA Another striking piece of design, this is something that will take pride of place in your home gym. Ostensibly a rowing machine, this cherry wood WaterRower has an added arm with a visual display for interactive workouts. Those with a competitive leaning can race other Ergatta owners from around the world, or just stick to solo training. The machine also folds away neatly, so it’s as dominating as you might think. £1050 | ergatta.com

Hey Tracey... I just read your Interior Design article on page 16... 31 brik.co.uk

Beautifully Crafted Interiors 01992 414649 tracey@traceyandrewsinteriors.co.uk www.traceyandrewsinteriors.co.uk

SELLER’S GUIDE

GETTING OUT OF DODGE The London exodus. Is leaving a smart play?

WORDS

JOSH WOODFIN Property Journalist s soon as the scale and severity of the pandemic become apparent, the rumours followed soon after. Whispers of a London exodus as people got out of the city and disappeared into the country – second homes for the wealthiest, extended family homes for the rest. And it’s easy to sympathise. In the early frantic months, with the news dominated by enormous queues at supermarkets and vast temporary hospitals, who wouldn’t seek some space. But as our understanding of Covid became clearer, and our collective attempts to stop the spread evolved into ‘the new normal’, another type of movement began to be discussed.

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With the government advising those who could to work from home to do so, some Londoners found their fantasies of rural or coastal living moving closer to a potential reality. After all, London is expensive, there’s no denying that. So if

you don’t need to be here, well, maybe, it’d be great to not by that season ticket…but should you leave London?

In June and July, the number of buyer inquiries made to Rightmove from people living in 10 cities increased by 78% compared with the same period last year. In June and July, the number of buyer inquiries made to Rightmove from people living in 10 cities increased by 78% compared with the same period last year. And there was a 126% increase in people considering properties in village locations, compared with a 68% rise in people searching for towns. While data provided to the Guardian by Hamptons International showed 63% of new properties in Tandridge in Surrey were bought by Londoners. You can see it reflected in the prices of other

popular commuter areas, too, with many people assuming a return to the 9-5, five days a week is unlikely. Property Investor Today reported in November, ‘homeowners in Bracknell are likely to have seen the price of their property increase on average by just under £10,000 in the three months from March to June.’ House prices in Sevenoaks increased by 2.29%, and properties in the ever-desirable St Albans rise by £12,800 on average during lockdown. Compelling figures that indicate if you have eyes on moving out of the capital, now is a good time to do it, especially with the stamp duty holiday being extended to March 2021. But that still doesn’t answer the question of whether you should leave. As with anything, it is very individual choice dependent on your own situation, but if you’re on the fence, there are some things to consider. The idea that London will become a ghost town is a nonsense. When lockdown is lifted and a semblance

FULHAM VS OUT OF LONDON What does the same Fulham budget get you outside of London.

YORK, Y01

£500,000 Studio | 1 Bathroom 320 sq ft | 30 sq m Ground floor flat

£500,000 3 Beds | 2 Bathrooms 1,632 sq ft | 152 sq m Detached house

WHITTINGSTALL ROAD

CHICHESTER, PO18

£999,950 3 Beds | 1 Bathroom 984 sq ft | 92 sq m Maisonette flat

£995,000 5 Beds | 3 Bathrooms 2,379 sq ft | 221 sq m Detached house

BISHOPS ROAD

MARLOW, SL7

£1,595,000 5 Beds | 3 Bathrooms 1,562 sq ft | 146 sq m Terraced house

£1,595,000 5 Beds | 4 Bathrooms 3,968 sq ft | 369 sq m Detached house

PURSERS CROSS ROAD

BATH, BA1

£2,500,000 5 Beds | 3 Bathrooms 2,277 sq ft | 212 sq m Terraced house

£2,500,000 5 Beds | 3 Bathrooms 7,745 sq ft | 719 sq m Terraced house

*All properties outside of London were sourced from Rightmove.com

of reality returns, so will the energy of the city we all call home. The markets will thrive again, you’ll go back to fighting for the best table at your favourite restaurants, and as an extra bonus, the tube will probably never be quite as crowded as it used to be, as businesses adjust to new ways of working.

London is still be one of the greatest cities in the world, with stunning green spaces, incredible schools, and unrivalled culture, food and, yes, community. And from a more mercenary point of view, if some people do leave London, the city may become the most affordable it’s been for years.

We can’t tell you not to take the valuation of your 3-bed Fulham terrace and compare it with what you could get in Yorkshire (a lot, is the answer), but we can tell you that London is far from over. It’s just beginning a new era, as it has done for thousands of years.

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QUARRENDON STREET

SHOWCASE

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WINCHENDON ROAD Full Refurbishments / Hand Built Staircase / Prewired Cinema Room A comprehensive â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;back to bricksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; reconstruction completed in a painstaking year long restoration. Hand finished parquet floors, hand built staircases and joinery are included with prewiring for speakers and a Dolby Atmos cinema room. High quality tiling and finishing throughout, this home has been executed with great skill & attention to detail.

BUILDGURU

buildguru.co.uk

SHOWCASE

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SANDS END Conversion Into Flats / Crittal Detail Throughout / Parquet Flooring A high-spec residential development comprising the conversion of a single dwelling into two spacious flats. Both properties feature considered and effective use of crittal throughout, high quality tiling and parquet flooring.

RG BUILD LTD

rgbuild.uk

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STUDDRIDGE STREET Arranged over four floors, this impressive house comprises a ground floor entrance to a light and spacious double reception room, cloakroom, extended kitchen/breakfast room

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fitted with contemporary units, space for dinning and access to the 52ft south facing garden The basement floor has excellent ceiling height, great natural light and is configured with a large family room to the rear, utility room, separate W.C and a double bedroom with a modern ensuite shower room. The first floor has the large principle bedroom with ensuite and built-in wardrobes, a second double bedroom and family bathroom, the top floor has three more bedrooms and a modern bathroom.

6 Bed

2,885

ÂŁ3,100,000

HOUSE

SQ FT

FOR SALE

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WINCHENDON ROAD This property has been subject to a comprehensive ‘back to bricks’ reconstruction over a year in the making. Arranged over four floors and extending to almost 2,800 sq ft (258 sq m), both the living space and bedrooms have been well implemented and balanced in a sublime way. On the basement level there is a large, prewired family/media room with a Dolby Atmos cinema system.

5 Bed

2,776

£2,895,000

HOUSE

SQ FT

UNDER OFFER

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CONIGER ROAD The property offers 2,766 sq ft (257 sq m) of living space set over four floors. On the ground floor is a bright double reception room, open plan kitchen dining room with bifold doors onto the garden and a W.C. On the basement level is an open plan reception space with built in storage.

5 Bed

2,766

ÂŁ2,750,000

HOUSE

SQ FT

UNDER OFFER

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TYRAWLEY ROAD Currently arranged over three floors, extending to just under 1,700 sq ft (156 sq m) of living space. The ground floor has a large double reception room at the front of the house, with doors leading out onto the garden and a stylish kitchen breakfast room to the rear, with further access leading out onto a 34’5 ft private rear garden.

3 Bed

1,677

£1,795,000

HOUSE

SQ FT

OFFERS IN EXCESS OF

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GOWAN AVENUE

4 Bed HOUSE

The house is arranged over three floors, extending to almost 2,000 sq ft. The ground floor features a bright, open plan double reception room, separate W.C and an extended modern kitchen breakfast room complete with island and bi folding doors leading onto a 29 ft private garden. On the first floor there are three double bedrooms (one en suite) with excellent built-in storage and a modern bathroom.

1,922 SQ FT

ÂŁ1,650,000 FOR SALE

G I L E S - G A S . CO. U K

BESPOKE BATHROOMS

BOILER CARE

PLUMBING & HEATING

At Giles Gas & Plumbing we pride ourselves on our high customer satisfaction ratings. We work hard to communicate with our customers from start to finish on all jobs.

Lewis was fantastic throughout. Couldn’t recommend him highly enough. Clean, efficient and work was completed to a high standard. “ Mr R. Bell

Kingston upon Thames KT2, UK

brik.co.uk

020 3814 0270 | info@giles-gas.co.uk

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BISHOPS ROAD

5 Bed HOUSE

This freehold house is arranged over three floors and extends to just over 1,550 sq ft (144 sq m). The property has an impressive entertaining space with a family friendly open plan layout spanning the ground floor, featuring a modern and stylish kitchen, dining area, and reception area with large bi-folding doors that lead out to a well maintained private garden.

1,562 SQ FT

ÂŁ1,595,000 FOR SALE

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HARBELDOWN ROAD

3 Bed FLAT

This beautifully presented property comprises a large kitchen/breakfast on the first floor with recently fitted units and space for dining, a separate WC, 3rd bedroom/study and a light reception room with high ceilings to the front and a small balcony, the second floor has the master bedroom with ample storage and eaves storage, family bathroom and the second double bedroom.

1,363 SQ FT

ÂŁ1,095,000 FOR SALE

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WARDO AVENUE Arranged over the first and second floors and offering close to 1,200 sq. ft of living space. This superb property has been recently refurbished and finished to a very high standard throughout. On the first floor there is excellent entertaining space with a large open plan reception room and bespoke De Vol kitchen, with a composite worktop, integrated appliances, and a large gas range cooker.

3 Bed

1,175

ÂŁ1,095,000

FLAT

SQ FT

UNDER OFFER

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LILYVILLE ROAD

2 Bed FLAT

This flat offers almost 850 sq ft of living space and features a superb open-plan kitchen reception room with bi-folding doors that lead onto a private South West facing garden. There are two double bedrooms (one with an en-suite shower room) and plenty of built-in storage in both rooms. The cellar has also been converted, comprising a modern family bathroom and a useful utility space.

845 SQ FT

ÂŁ899,500 FOR SALE

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QUARRENDON STREET

Studio FLAT

This stunning studio apartment has a private entrance on the raised ground has carefully planned use of space and finished to the highest of standards as the apartment has recently been subject to complete refurbishment program including underfloor central heating, air conditioning, new bathroom and kitchen with integrated Siemens dishwasher, oven with microwave and space for washer and a dryer.

320 SQ FT

ÂŁ500,000 FOR SALE

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NARBOROUGH STREET Two houses knocked into one and arranged over three floors offering generous living and entertainment space, which includes a fantastic dining room and a generous garden extending approximately 30ft. The property further comprises a spacious double reception room, bright kitchen with breakfast area and an AGA, study, utility room, five double bedrooms all en suite, separate cloakroom and large family room.

6 Bed

3,378

LET

HOUSE

SQ FT

2020

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ST. DIONIS ROAD

4 Bed HOUSE

A fantastic four bedroom, three bathroom family house, located in one of the most sought after streets in Parsons Green. This house offers excellent entertaining space on the ground floor with a double reception room with kitchen breakfast room, leading out onto a private south facing garden. The first floor has two double bedrooms and a family bathroom, one of which is the master with en-suite.

2,047 SQ FT

TO LET PRICE ON REQUEST

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NOVELLO STREET

4 Bed HOUSE

A beautifully presented four bedroom Victorian town house located on this ultra popular street between the green spaces of Parsons Green and Eel Brook Common. The ground floor has an open plan layout with a reception room which leads through to a modern kitchen fitted. There are bi-folding doors which open out onto a secluded low maintenance garden. On the first floor there is an elegant master bedroom with ample storage, and a stunning en-suite bathroom, a further double bedroom and a family bathroom.

1,426 SQ FT

TO LET ÂŁ1,038 PER WEEK

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CONIGER ROAD A beautiful, three bedroom, three bathroom ground floor maisonette in a prime location in the heart of Parsons Green, Fulham. The property has been fully refurbished by the current owner to an incredibly high standard throughout and extends to nearly 1,300 square feet (121 sq m). There is a large open plan kitchen and reception room on the ground floor to the rear with plenty of natural light which leads onto the low maintenance patio garden.

3 Bed

1,519

LET

FLAT

SQ FT

2020

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WHITTINGSTALL ROAD

2 Bed FLAT

A superb two bedroom, one bathroom furnished ground floor flat with outside space. Accessed by a communal hallway the front door opens on to the good sized living room which leads onto the open plan kitchen with double doors onto the courtyard garden. Off the kitchen is the bathroom with shower and bath which then leads down a corridor to the main bedroom with plenty of built in storage and light.

969 SQ FT

TO LET ÂŁ600 PER WEEK

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HIGHAM HOUSE WEST

2 Bed FLAT

A well-presented two bedroom one bathroom ground floor apartment which benefits from a large private terrace. This apartment is located on the ground floor and features a living room with an open plan kitchen with access onto its own private terrace via the double doors. It has two double bedrooms with plenty of built in storage and one family bathroom.

726 SQ FT

LET 2020

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KILKIE STREET

2 Bed FLAT

A beautiful two bedroom, one bathroom, garden flat located in the Sands End area of Fulham. This garden flat has been finished to a high standard with two double bedrooms to the front of the property, bathroom off the hallway and a open plan kitchen/living room with bi-folding doors to the patio garden.

825 SQ FT

TO LET ÂŁ575 PER WEEK

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BROOMHOUSE ROAD

2 Bed FLAT

A first floor two bedroom flat, in a period conversion, located just off Parsons Green. There are two double bedrooms and there's a neutrally decorated shower room, a good size open plan living area and a fully fitted kitchen. The living area is bright and spacious offering lots of light with large windows and doors.

549 SQ FT

TO LET ÂŁ425 PER WEEK

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FULHAM HIGH STREET

1 Bed FLAT

A brand new one bedroom house on the Fulham High Street close to Putney Bridge tube station. This house comprises of a large open plan living space, with a kitchen featuring a Siemens multi function oven, microwave combination oven and induction hob. Upstairs there is a double bedroom with fitted wardrobe and separate bathroom.

558 SQ FT

TO LET ÂŁ450 PER WEEK

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NEW KINGS ROAD

1 Bed FLAT

A newly refurbished one bedroom flat with impressive reception room space ideally located in Parsons Green. Situated on the first floor with a large window in the reception room making the space particularly light. The bedroom is quietly situated to the rear of the property with views over the private patio area.

635 SQ FT

LET 2020

DIRECTORY Looking for something? Look no further with our recommended suppliers directory, just mention where you found them.

ARCHITECTS DBLO dblo.co.uk 020 7610 9333 227a Stephendale Road London SW6 2PR Emergent Design Studios ed-studios.com 020 7713 0056 51 Calthorpe Street London WC1X 0HH Hogarth hogartharchitects.co.uk 020 7381 3409 186 Dawes Road London SW6 7RQ

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Icon icon-architects.com 020 7731 0400 The Glass House 11 Lettice Street London SW6 4EH Simon Gill simongillarchitects.co.uk 020 7610 9344 Riverbank House 1 Putney Bridge Approach London SW6 3JD

BUILDERS Blaze & Co. blazeandco.co.uk 020 7373 2214 Flat 2 111 Drayton Gardens London SW10 9QU Design 2 Finish design2finish.co.uk 07968 821 1667 54 Chipstead Street London SW6 3SS

Giles Gas & Plumbing giles-gas.co.uk 020 3814 0270

Tracey Andrews traceyandrewsinteriors.co.uk 07951 203525

NU Builds nubuilds.com 0207 7316841 10 Fulham High Street London SW6 4LZ

SURVEYORS

Nuspace I-want-nuspace.co.uk 0203 405 3480 965 Fulham Road London SW6 5JJ

Capital Chartered capitalchartered.co.uk 020 8875 0035 Argyll House All Saints Passage London SW18 1EP

RGBuild rgbuild.uk 07737104151 49 Milton Road London SW14 8JP

Mactaggart Speir & Watson Surveyors mswsurveyors.co.uk 020 7183 3415 Centenary House The Queen’s Club Palliser Road West Kensington London W14 9EQ

Paterson Wood patersonwood.co.uk 0207 371 7327

LEASEHOLD ADVICE

Roxburgh Construction roxburghconstruction.co.uk 020 7731 7480 74 The Arches Ranelagh Gardens London SW6 3UB

Capital Leasehold capitalchartered.co.uk 020 7112 5169 64 Knightsbridge London SW1X 7JF

Uber Contracts ubercontracts.co.uk 020 3151 5034

MORTGAGE BROKERS

INTERIOR DESIGN Magenta Pink magentapinkinteriors.co.uk 07956 884 437 RJV Designs rjvdesigns.co.uk 020 7385 6009 126 Harbord St London SW6 6PH

SOLICITORS Healys (Jane Baker) healys.com 020 7822 4120 15-17 Jockey’s Fields London WC1R 4QR Healys Solicitors (Jane Baker) healys.com 020 7822 4000 Atrium Court 15-17 Jockey’s Fields London WC1R 4QR Judge Sykes Frixou (Belinda Frixou) jsf-law.co.uk 020 7395 3355 23 Kingsway London WC2B 6YF David Tagg (David Tagg) morrlaw.com 020 7736 0999 119 Harwood Road London SW6 4QL

Ross Murphy capricornfinancial.co.uk 0203 1110 942 1 Queen Caroline Sreet Hammersmith, London W6 9YN

ADDITIONS Please contact us if you would like to add your business to this directory. Email hello@brik.co.uk

GET IN TOUCH We believe We started Brik to challenge the status quo. Our reputation over the years has continued to grow by delivering record-breaking prices alongside quick sales and lets with minimum fuss. Our formula is simple; sound advice plus a friendly approach equals great results.

Meet our Fulham team

67 CHRIS Co-founder chris@brik.co.uk

BEN Co-founder ben@brik.co.uk

JAMES Director james@brik.co.uk

NICK Lettings Manager nick@brik.co.uk

SAMIA Lettings Associate samia@brik.co.uk

RONJA Lettings Associate ronja@brik.co.uk

CHRIS Brand Manager cwatts@brik.co.uk

MATHEW Senior Sales Associate mathew@brik.co.uk

HOLLIE Property Manager hollie@brik.co.uk

CHRIS Sales Associate chrish@brik.co.uk

DIANA Accounts Administrator diana@brik.co.uk

SALES: 020 7384 6790 | LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT: 020 7384 6791 EMAIL: hello@brik.co.uk | FACEBOOK: Brik | TWITTER: @BrikLondon | INSTAGRAM: brik_london ADDRESS: 77 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham, London SW6 4JA

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MIKE Co-founder mike@brik.co.uk

brik.co.uk