SOURCE
WINTER 2024
Ideal Interiors see page 6
Garden trends see page 38
Repton, Derbyshire see page 14
Welcome
to o ur winter edition of Source
Alasdair Dunne Head of Residential & Rural Department
alasdair.dunne@fishergerman.co.uk
In the run up to the Autumn Statement, it was generally felt that the positive effects that lower mortgage rates usually have on the property market were being offset by budgetary uncertainty. The budget has been delivered and it was broadly in line with most people’s expectations of a tax and spend policy. We will all undoubtedly be impacted, directly or indirectly, but I would suggest that it was a budget that won’t cause most to significantly change their plans, unless you’re a farmer. Our farmers undoubtedly have some very difficult decisions to make and careful planning will be required for many. Whilst this magazine focuses on residentially orientated property, we have a specialist farms department and our National Country Agency Team are a good place to turn to if you want help to consider your options. You can find their details on page 27.
If you are one of the many people who have paused your home moving plans but are now feeling sufficiently confident to take positive steps towards your move, we have put together this edition of Source with a carefully curated selection of some of the fantastic properties we are
currently offering for sale. The magazine is organised around the sort of lifestyle that you want to live . If you’re after a new home, head to pages 18 to 21. If interior design is your thing, then look to pages 6 to 13. If your home isn’t home without a beautiful garden, then it’s pages 38 to 42.
As part of our drive to service all of your housing and property needs, I would draw your attention to Cherry Street Finance who are featured on pages 44 and 45. Cherry Street Finance are a really good team of financial advisors based in Birmingham, just over Cathedral Square, from our new office on Colmore Row. The Cherry Street Finance team offer independent financial advice, and the people we have introduced to them have been very positive about their ability to assist. It’s always worth checking if the offer you have is the best one for you; their contact details are on page 44.
I really hope you enjoy looking through our magazine, and if you would like to speak to us about any of the contents, or if you are ready to buy or sell, we will always be pleased to hear from you. The team and their contact details are on page 4.
Your key contacts...
Thomas Blake Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire
07917 220967
thomas.blake@fishergerman.co.uk
Christian Sanders Worcestershire, Herefordshire
07799 697791
christian.sanders@fishergerman.co.uk
Emily McPheat
Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire
07977 066741
emily.mcpheat@fishergerman.co.uk
Daniel Hayhurst
Cheshire, South Manchester
07810 378187
daniel.hayhurst@fishergerman.co.uk
Toby Gale-Hasleham North Wales
07929 742091
toby.gale-hasleham@fishergerman.co.uk
Stuart Flint
National Country Agency Team
07501 720422
stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk
Joy Brankin-Frisby Leicestershire, Rutland, Northamptonshire
07918 677574
joy.brankin-frisby@fishergerman.co.uk
Molly Skinner Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire
07741 264143
molly.skinner@fishergerman.co.uk
Matthew Davis Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire
07880 385037
matthew.davis@fishergerman.co.uk
Toby Harris Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire
07975 980745
toby.harris@fishergerman.co.uk
Joanne McElevey Worcestershire
07976 493671
joanne.mcelevey@fishergerman.co.uk
Richard Gadd National Country Agency Team
07966 481487
richard.gadd@fishergerman.co.uk
Michael Harris Cheshire, North Wales
07870 961711
michael.harris@fishergerman.co.uk
Tom Parker Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire
07738 981255
thomas.parker@fishergerman.co.uk
Ben Charsley Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire
07816 264582
ben.charsley@fishergerman.co.uk
James Cardon Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire
07967 876982
james.cardon@fishergerman.co.uk
Ella Pearson New Homes Agency ella.pearson@fishergerman.co.uk
07580 323827
Matthew Allen National Country Agency Team
07810 378190
matthew.allen@fishergerman.co.uk
1 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840 centralagency@fishergerman.co.uk
2 Ashford
/company/fisher-german-llp
3 Banbury 01295 271555 banburyagency@fishergerman.co.uk
@fishergerman_newhomes
@fishergerman_homes
4 Bedford 01234 823661 bedfordagency@fishergerman.co.uk
/FisherGerman.Homes/
5 Birmingham
6 Bury St Edmunds
7 Chester 01244 409660 chesteragency@fishergerman.co.uk
8 Cwmbran
9 Doncaster 01302 243930 doncasteragency@fishergerman.co.uk
01636 642500 newarkagency@fishergerman.co.uk
01785 257011 staffordagency@fishergerman.co.uk 25 Thame 01844 212004 thameagency@fishergerman.co.uk
Worcester 01905 726220 worcesteragency@fishergerman.co.uk
Country Agency Team 020 7870 7799 ncat@fishergerman.co.uk 1
I deal interiors
The latest trends in home design
Looking for home inspiration? Joy Brankin-Frisby looks at the latest trends in interior design and how to create functional yet beautiful spaces in your home.
Our home is so much more than bricks and mortar: it offers us sanctuary and a place full of memories. Creating the perfect home that looks and feels exactly how you want it is no mean feat; not only does it require a great deal of imagination but also a keen eye and an open mind. It is one thing to have an idea of how your dream home might look, but what about its functionality? The best interior design doesn’t just look aesthetically beautiful but is also functional, actively complementing your way of life.
Newton Solney, Derbyshire
Functional and yet beautiful
The kitchen is the hub and main focal point in our homes and has become so much more than a space for simply preparing meals. The trend for multifunctional rooms with carefully zoned areas, to include cosy seating and dining spaces, is highly popular and now comes with the often-added requirement for a study space within the kitchen. Life revolves around this open plan living kitchen as the heart of the home, being both functional and yet warm and inviting.
The kitchen island remains an integral part of the modern-day kitchen, but we are seeing a growing trend for freestanding pieces. Whilst these feel more like a piece of furniture, they still have the benefits of the usual island with deep drawers and a social breakfast bar seating area.
Our hectic lives mean that homeowners are looking for a sense of calm and tranquillity when they walk into a space, with lots of natural light. This year, we have seen a trend towards more calming colours and natural textures helping to create a serene space in your home. The Scandi style kitchens have become increasingly popular with a minimalist approach, and clean lines. Unlike the pure minimalist look, these kitchens have softer, warmer edges with textiles, warm woods and light colour schemes. There is a real focus on natural materials and earthy tones.
Bathrooms are also places for blending both functionality with aesthetics, creating spaces that offer sanctuary and wellbeing. There is a surge in popularity for bathrooms that focus on health and wellness, with spa-like amenities including steam showers.
Freestanding baths are a key, timeless feature. These sculpturally beautiful tubs can serve as a striking focal point to the bathroom. In addition, there is increasing demand for the double sink which not only offers great functionality but also creates a sophisticated and luxurious feel.
In terms of décor, the bathroom is a space where homeowners can be a little braver, using bold paint colours and fabulous wallpaper. There is an increasing trend towards flooring and wall tiles that use geometric patterns such as chevron, basket weave and herringbone layouts.
An immaculately presented and extended period property
Newton Solney, Derbyshire
• An impressive living-dining kitchen
• 5 reception rooms
• 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
• An excellent master suite
• A former two storey coach house
• Garaging, gym, games room
• Extensive landscaped gardens
• In all about 3.49 acres
Guide price – £2,500,000
01530 410840
Biophilic design
Biophilic is all about connecting us to the natural world, with a focus on bringing elements of nature into our spaces. It is said to improve health, productivity and happiness. Biophilic design aims to minimise the barrier between the outside and inside world, creating rooms that not only have lots of natural light but also a nature-inspired colour palette, with plenty of organic tactile finishes including wood, rattan and jute.
The modern garden room is a great way to achieve the aim of bringing the outdoors indoors and vice versa, enabling the garden to be an extension of our living space. Modern garden rooms, often with underfloor heating and energy-efficient windows, are designed to be used all year round, unlike the more old-fashioned conservatory that could only be occupied for a few months of the year. This space enables us to still be a part of the outside without having to suffer the elements.
Charming and extensive home, full of character, in popular village
East
Langton, Leicestershire
• Beautifully presented
• Retaining many of the original features
• 4 reception rooms, garden room
• Extensive kitchen, laundry room
• Principal suite, 5 further bedrooms
• Enclosed garden, garage, stores
• In all about 0.22 acres
• EPC rating - D
Blending old with new
Modern, minimalistic fittings and fresh colours can perfectly complement the period home whilst ensuring that the character and history are not lost. Carefully used contemporary colours and styling can highlight and celebrate the original architecture and character of a period property without losing the integrity of its heritage.
Tall and grand ceilings can be accentuated with statement lighting. For example, a top tip would be to choose lighting that is bigger than your ceiling rose.
A meticulously restored country residence
Knutsford, Cheshire
• Open plan country kitchen with dining area
• 3 reception rooms, home gym
• Master bedroom suite, 3 double bedrooms
• Mature wrap around gardens
• Stable block, tack room, barn
• 50m x 20m floodlit manège
• In all about 4.99 acres
• EPC rating - D Guide price – £2,500,000 01565 757970 Click to
Flooring choices
Hardwood flooring together with sustainable rugs and carpets remain a popular choice. Celebrating the texture of natural materials and ensuring those materials are presented in their natural hues is key.
Expect to see sophisticated oaks and walnuts in wide planks or classic herringbone patterns. Where natural
materials aren’t practical, luxury vinyl tiles provide an excellent durable alternative. Stone tiling will tend to be larger and, where possible, will run from inside and seamlessly into the garden. To be really on trend, your hard flooring should be complemented with sustainable rugs, perhaps made from reclaimed wool or jute, or even recycled bottles!
A grand and wonderfully unique 1980s Art Deco style
Knutsford, Cheshire
• Private landscaped driveway, electronic gate
• Formal sitting room, york stone terrace
• Dining room, second sitting room
• Dining kitchen, further lower ground kitchen
• 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
• 2 bedroom annexe, garage for 10 cars
• In all about 1.19 acres
• EPC rating - D
Lighting
Paying careful attention to the way you illuminate the spaces in your home can have a massive impact on both overall appearance and ambiance. Good lighting is more than just brightening a space. It is important to take into consideration the way we use the spaces in our home and how this might change throughout the day, as well as considering the seasons. For example, a ceiling light might be the practical solution to lighting a room, but to create a low-lit ambiance instead consider using soft floor or table lights working together. A dimmable switch or smart light that can change colour are also options for creating a softer, gentler atmosphere.
A contemporary, energy efficient 4 bedroom property
Whitbourne, Herefordshire
• Stunning kitchen/family room
• Utility room, cloakroom
• Sitting room, study, wet room
• Master bedroom, en suite
• 3 further bedrooms, bathroom
• Outbuilding with 2 garages, 1 bed annexe
• Terracing, sheds, kitchen garden
• EPC rating - B
Tactile textures
To complement the natural and calming home styles, homeowners will be looking to include comforting textures using tactile fabrics and natural materials to bring depth, warmth and character to spaces. Touch plays a strong role in how we feel about our homes. We are likely to see a return of bouclé-upholstered furniture and chunky knitted throws to create a stylish and cosy interior. Original natural materials like timber and stone can be revealed and highlighted to enhance a natural and tactile effect, often using upcycled items to maintain that organic feel. Again, we see a trend for the Scandi style where simple but textured items offer a depth of
feeling, appealing to multiple senses. Even in bathrooms and kitchens, textured tiles are replacing the smooth glossy finish to create a more warming and characterful feel to the home.
A charming character home with an impressive high quality kitchen
Welford, Northamptonshire
• Grade II listed period property
• Full of character and charm
• Recently developed kitchen
• Private gardens
• Parking, garage
• Separate one bedroom annexe
• Popular village with local amenities
• Surrounded by rolling countryside
Guide
– £695,000 01858 410200
Multifunctional dining spaces
The dining room, whether a separate space or part of an open plan kitchen, is one of the most used areas in the home, acting as a social gathering space where families and friends come together. The traditional dining room was a formal space but has since evolved into a multifunctional area, used for eating, socialising, and even working. It is therefore apt that we see dining room furniture and style adapt and redefine to reflect the modern trends, for this blend of functionality and aesthetics. In line with the desire to create warm and comforting spaces, we are seeing a return of darker woods to include walnut and teak.
Upholstered dining chairs create a textured look but also provide a comfortable and cosy place to sit, replacing the formal and possibly stuffy hare back chairs. Soft lighting and warm but natural colours help to complete the effect.
Tarporley, Cheshire A stunning, recently built, contemporary property
• An immaculate home built in 2023
• 5 double bedrooms, 3 en suite
• 2 reception rooms, study
• Wonderful open plan family kitchen
• Extensive driveway, twin garage
• Landscaped front and rear gardens
• Southerly views over adjoining country
• EPC rating - B
An excellent period property with secondary accommodation
Repton, Derbyshire
• Grade II listed
• A dining-kitchen with garden access
• Drawing room, dining room, media room
• Wonderful master suite, 5 further bedrooms
• A detached former Engine House
• Circa 1.18 acres of grazing land
• Tennis court, formal gardens
• In all about 4.63 acres
Guide price – £3,500,000 01530 410840
Wonderful character property with beautifully retained features
Husbands Bosworth, Leicestershire
• Grade II listed
• Wonderful retained character features
• Formal reception room, sitting room
• Farmhouse style kitchen
• 4/5 bedrooms
• Large first floor study area
• Enclosed rear garden, parking
• Workshop/garage, planning potential
Offers IEO £700,000
01858 410200
Spacious 4 bedroom Grade II listed property
Worcester, Worcestershire
• Spacious kitchen/dining/family room
• Sitting room, TV/games room, piano room
• Utility room, ground floor shower room
• 3 bedrooms on first floor, family bathroom
• Top floor bedroom, study
• Detached double garage, gardens
• Within walking distance of City
• Much sought after location, no onward chain
Guide price – £875,000 01905 726220 Click
A small family estate with farmhouse and large entertaining barn
Great Kimble, Buckinghamshire
• Main House - Drawing room, kitchen
• Principal bathroom, en suite
• 5 further en suite bedrooms
• Manor Farm Cottage
• Grade II listed Tithe Barn
• Manor Farm Flats (1&2)
• Land and equestrian facilities available
• In all about 7.77 acres
Guide price – £2,950,000 01844 212004
Beautifully presented Grade II listed village home
Ashley, Leicestershire
• Charming features throughout
• Carefully designed, well presented
• High quality finish
• 2 reception rooms, reception hall
• Kitchen, breakfast bar
• 4 bedrooms, master with en suite
• Garden, terrace, parking
• In all about 0.10 acres
rural property close to the Peak District National Park
Rivelin
Valley, Sheffield
• Beautiful Grade II listed stone house
• Farm cottage
• A range of modern farm buildings
• Development potential (STP)
• Permanent pasture and woodland
• Conveniently placed to commute to city
• Prominent location, edge of Peak Park
• In all about 27.01 acres
Butlers Marston, Warwickshire
• Grade II listed, rarely available country estate
• Principal house, cottages, stables
• 98.58 acres of arable land
• 50.56 acres of arable land
• Lobbington Hall Farm, 110 acres
• Q class barn, residential permission
• For sale as a whole or in lots
• In all about 318.51 acres
Guide price – £7,225,000 01295 271555
A handsome Grade II listed Georgian farmhouse and converted barn
Brailsford, Derbyshire
• Combined family kitchen and garden room
• 3 reception rooms, study, utility room
• 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
• Spacious annexe with 2 bedrooms
• Triple garage and a sweeping driveway
• Domestic outbuildings
• Traditional two storey barn
• In all about 3.48 acres
Guide price – £2,200,000 01332 416790
A complete country estate extending to 318 acres
Buyers’wish list revealed
Our New Homes team have surveyed new homes buyers to identify their ideal ‘wish list’ and the results found that...
of buyers want a smaller house in a dream location 80%
Our survey confirmed that the mantra ‘location, location, location’ has never been truer. Interestingly, respondents said that they were willing to sacrifice the size of their property to get a prime location.
Most choose a new home for ease, not only in terms of swift access to transport links, schools and local amenities (which new builds are typically tactically positioned to be) but also as they’re low maintenance and in most cases, are more energy efficient.
64%
...of buyers want a home offering open plan living
Gone are the days of compartmentalised rooms and closed-off spaces. Today’s homebuyers are looking for open floor plans that allow for better flow and communication between rooms. An open floor plan makes it easier to entertain guests and keep an eye on children, and sits high on the agenda with buyers continuing to seek multipurpose space which can be multifunctional.
69% would prefer a smaller house finished to an exceptionally high standard
People just don’t settle for second best any more – purchasers like knowing that everything is brand new and untouched. New build homes tend to be built with the latest heating systems, insulation, and double glazing, your home is built using top-notch new technology and materials. Bathrooms and kitchens are fitted with high-spec modern appliances and sanitaryware.
...wanted a property in a prime position with a large garden
Outdoor living spaces are more important than ever; homebuyers are looking for properties that offer a private outdoor patio. This is a place to relax, entertain guests, and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
‘The survey results highlight that buyers aren’t just looking for a property any more; there is a clear focus on lifestyle too, with location and amenities being at the top of most buyers’ checklists along with social spaces for entertaining.’
87% want bigger bedrooms and fewer bathrooms
Nowadays purchasers are looking for larger bedrooms to accommodate walk-in wardrobes to house their collections of clothes and shoes. Often, space for a dressing table or a seating area appears on the ‘must have’ list too. The demand for an en suite bathroom seems to have reduced and those looking for a new home would rather opt for larger bedroom space and a luxurious, high-specification main bathroom to pamper themselves in.
36% want an eco-home with lower energy bills
Homebuyers are increasingly concerned with energy efficiency and sustainability, so they’re looking for properties that offer energy-efficient appliances, windows and insulation, as well as other sustainable features like solar panels. These features can help reduce not only energy bills but also a property’s carbon footprint.
25% are looking for a new home with a garage
This figure is much lower than it would have been several years ago. People don’t park their cars in garages any more and, in reality, modern cars don’t fit anyway! Garages tend to take on the role of additional storage space, so often a large shed or a reasonable amount of internal storage space will suffice in most cases.
Ella Pearson Head of New Homes
07580 323827
ella.pearson@fishergerman.co.uk
A boost to buying
Assisted move/Help to Sell/ Easymove/Smooth Move
Assisted move schemes are offered by new-house builders or developers. They are intended for those who want to buy a new-build home from the builder/developer but have an existing house they need to sell first.
Part exchange
A part exchange scheme is where you trade your existing house against a new-build property, in much the same way as you would trade your old car in for a new one. Ultimately, your property serves as part payment for a new-build home. One of the reasons some sellers like part exchange is that the sale of their property is more likely to be guaranteed and it helps them avoid being part of a lengthy and complex property chain.
Shared ownership
This scheme enables you to buy a share of a new home from the ‘landlord’, who is typically the council or a housing association; you then pay rent on the remaining share. You need a mortgage to pay for your share, which can be between a quarter and three-quarters of the home’s full value. You then pay a reduced rent on the share you don’t own. Later, you can choose to buy a bigger share in the property, and ‘staircase’ up to 100% of its value.
Armed forces discount
In January 2023, the Forces Help to Buy Scheme was introduced offering an enduring policy, ensuring its availability to all service personnel. The scheme enables service personnel to borrow up to 50% of their salary, up to a maximum of £25,000 interest free towards the purchase of a property.
Finally many developers offer incentives including deposit contributions and discount off the sale price.
Deanfield Row
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
Deanfield Homes
Deanfield Row is an exquisite collection of just 7 premium homes situated halfway between Thame and Aylesbury.
01844 212004
PLEASE NOTE: images are CGI and are for illustrative purposes only
Park Attwood
£ Prices from £975,000
Bewdley, Worcestershire
Park Attwood comprises seven outstanding homes with striking contemporary facades add fantastic panoramic countryside views in a private gated development.
01905 726220
Christopher Charles Properties Ltd £ Prices from
The Old School House
Claydon, Oxfordshire Tibbetts Developments Ltd
Formerly the local village primary school, the 4 bedroom property has been sympathetically and meticulously renovated, refurbished and extended to a very high specification throughout.
01295 271555
PLEASE NOTE: images are CGI and are for illustrative purposes only
Casita
£ Guide price – £1,250,000
Beaumaris, Isle of Anglesey Britannia Projects Ltd
A striking development of exceptional apartments offering an unparalleled lifestyle of luxury and comfort.
01244 409660
PLEASE NOTE: images are CGI and are for illustrative purposes only
£ Prices from £335,000
Potters Reach
Leigh Sinton, Worcestershire Cotswold Oak Ltd
Potters Reach offers an exceptional collection of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom new homes nestled on the edge of this sough after village.
01905 726220
PLEASE NOTE: top image is CGI and for illustrative purposes only
Maple Barn
£ Prices from £449,950
Barton-Under-Needwood, Derbyshire Howard Homes
A high specification 2 bedroom barn conversion set amidst delightful countryside, on the edge of the much-sought after village of Barton-underNeedwood.
01332 416790
A charmingand characterful property in a superb elevated position
Barrow Hill, Staffordshire
• 5 bedroom farmhouse
• An adjoining office/annexe
• Traditional farm buildings
• Former cattery
• Formal gardens
• Extensive yard areas, grazing land
• In all about 23.88 acres
• EPC rating - D
A characterful renovated cottage with far reaching views
Ombersley, Worcestershire
• Characterful detached cottage
• 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom
• Curtilage listed, renovated to high standard
• 3 reception rooms
• Beautiful landscaped garden
• Detached double garage
• Electric gated drive to gravel parking
• EPC rating - D
726220
Period family home with ancillary accommodation
Thame, Oxfordshire
• 4 spacious bedrooms
• 3 reception rooms
• Kitchen/breakfast room
• Utility, cellar
• 1 bedroom ground floor annexe
• 2 bedroom ground floor annexe
• 1 bedroom coach house
• EPC rating - E
Guide price – £2,000,000 01844 212004
A rare opportunity to purchase one of Knutsford’s historical buildings
Knutsford, Cheshire
• Grade II listed
• Built by Richard Harding-Watt, late 1890s
• Imposing Italianate Grade II tower house
• Period features throughout, exposed timbers
• 2 sitting rooms, hobby room
• 4 double bedrooms over four floors
• Feature brick spiral staircase
• 3 bathrooms, one en suite
Offers IEO £580,000
01565 757970
• 4 bed farmhouse recently modernised
• Spacious reception rooms
• 2 letting cottages with a healthy income
• Attached stone barn, conversion potential STP
• Stable with 6 boxes, feed, tack & store rooms
• Further 2 stables with tack room
• Sand and rubber olympic size manège
• EPC rating - D
Salwarpe, Worcestershire A handsome, spacious and characterful Grade II listed house
• Formerly part of The Old Rectory
• Attached accommodation over 3 floors
• 4 impressive reception rooms
• Master bedroom with dressing room & en suite
• 7-8 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms
• Decked roof terrace with fabulous views
• Positioned in the heart of a popular village
• In all about 1 acre
Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire
• Kitchen/breakfast room
• 3 reception rooms
• 2 feature log burners
• 4 bedrooms, en suite
• Mature gardens
• 3 sun terraces, summerhouse
• Sought after village location
• EPC rating - D
A beautiful period family home with original features
Alkerton, Oxfordshire
• Grade II listed
• Kitchen/Breakfast room
• Dining room, drawing room, snug
• Principal bedroom, 3 further bedrooms
• Family bathroom, 2 en suites
• Stable block with tack room
• Gardens, grounds, paddocks
• In all about 3.5 acres
Guide price – £1,800,000 01295 271555
Guide price – £975,000 01844 212004 A beautiful 19th century detached character cottage
National Country Agency Team
The knowledge and expertise provided by your local office is complemented and enhanced by our National Country Agency Team. Specialising in the sale of complex and higher value property, the National Country Agency Team can provide additional market insight, technical expertise and guidance to chart a clear path through the myriad and often complex factors that could be influential in a sale. The team are focused on unlocking additional value by formulating, and then implementing, the best strategy to create the highest possible sale price for country houses, farms and estates.
Local and regional buyers are the largest group of potential purchasers for most properties and our regional offices will cover this group comprehensively. However, where properties are unique and in short supply, experience demonstrates that buyers often have much wider search areas. Our ability to promote and market your property to reach a national and international market and throughout our extensive network of regional offices, can add a valuable advantage to your sale.
The National Country Agency Team will be responsible for coordinating the London exposure of your property, from our relocated and expanded London city office, which is augmented utilising LonRes, recognised as the premier network and data source for over 6,000 leading agents working in London. By instructing Fisher German, you are connecting your property to the best possible network of London buyers who are relocating out of the capital, and at no extra cost to you. We also have a strong number of overseas buyers who are registered looking to invest in prime property across the UK.
Finally, in addition to delivering the very best job, we want you to enjoy working with the National Country Agency Team; a personal and collaborative approach is at the heart of what we do.
“With the ever changing property market conditions it is important to provide proactive, well reasoned, professional advice to our clients. Excellent customer service is at the heart of what we do and Fisher German will always strive to deliver this.”
Matthew Allen
07810 378190
matthew.allen@fishergerman.co.uk
Richard Gadd
07966 481487
richard.gadd@fishergerman.co.uk
Patrick Ellicott
07816 189992
patrick.ellicott@fishergerman.co.uk
Flint
07501 720422
stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk
Alasdair Dunne
07501 720412
alasdair.dunne@fishergerman.co.uk
Selling success
Whitchurch, Shropshire
Stockport, Greater Manchester
Droitwich, Worcestershire
Near Eydon, South Northamptonshire
Malpas, Cheshire
Radbourne, Derbyshire
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
Welford, Northamptonshire
Burford, Oxfordshire
A selection of recently sold properties
Cheadle, Stockport
Lulsley, Worcestershire
Pistern Hills, Derbyshire
South Newington, Oxfordshire
Haddenham, Buckinghamshire
Barton-Under-Needwood, Staffordshire
Stoke Bliss, Worcestershire
Mold, Flintshire
Haddenham, Buckinghamshire
Selling success
Wilbarston, Market Harborough
Great Longstone, Derbyshire
Ruthin, Denbighshire
Cuddington, Cheshire
Compton Verney, Warwickshire
Sulgrave, Oxfordshire
Welland, Worcestershire
Haddenham, Buckinghamshire
Hoar Cross, Staffordshire
A selection of recently sold properties
Dwyran, Anglesey
Abergele, Conwy
Tarporley, Cheshire
Kings Sutton, Oxfordshire
Lacey Green. Buckinghamshire
Hollington, Staffordshire
Rowsley, Derbyshire
Worcester, Worcestershire
Cuddington, Cheshire
Online Auctions go from strength to strength
...and are the ideal means of selling for a multitude of clients
For many people, selling a property asset is done by default through a traditional private treaty sale and this is appropriate for most. Online auctions however can provide a quick and certain sale, and sometimes an exceptional result.
Ratley, Oxfordshire
Selling by online auction can provide certainty of sale with an exchange of contracts in a fixed timescale and completion 20 working days later.
Each sale is an individual sale, not part of a mass auction day. Fisher German prides itself on service delivery, and by holding individual sales we are able to tailor to suit the client’s needs, with flexibility to adjust timing and pricing during the sale to ensure a successful outcome. A typical sale will run for four weeks from the time the full legal pack is ready, meaning that a client could exchange and complete in as little as eight weeks.
The stats are compelling with the average sale price 20% over guide price
The secret to a successful sale is to set an appealing guide price from which competitive bidding will result, and our property experts across our national network of 26 offices are ready to advise you.
Is it for you?
Well, in short, yes, it could well be. The range of clients we have acted for recently is very diverse, including commercial businesses, utilities companies, public bodies, private clients, property companies, charities and landowners. This is not an exhaustive list, but all have benefited from the transparency of the platform allowing all bidders to see the offers being placed. Once the reserve has been met, any bid placed during the last five minutes of the auction will reset the clock for five minutes, allowing bidders to continue bidding, without being sniped at the last moment. Online auctions can sometimes continue 20 to 30 minutes beyond their allocated end time, so all buyers have a fair chance and the vendor secures the very best price.
Buyers have to be able to complete their purchase in 20 working days, so they must have cash or borrowings in place to enable them to go ahead. Traditional forms of
lending are not generally available, potentially restricting chances to buy for many. However, Fisher German have a trusted advisor in Cherry Street Finance who can provide quick decisions enabling buyers to borrow and still proceed to purchase by online auction. To find out more about their no obligation, fee-free financial advice available, see pages 44 to 45.
What sort of things are selling?
Online auctions aren’t all about run down barns and structurally unsound houses. Increasingly we are offering ‘normal’ properties for sale, one such example being the recent sale of Hill View in Ratley, Oxfordshire. This attractive period cottage failed to sell with another agent, yet with a fresh marketing approach on our online auction platform it attracted plenty of interest and sold for £516,000 (guide £495,000).
Acting on behalf of the Diocese of Wrexham, Fisher German advised a sale by online auction after a sale to a neighbour failed to proceed. A full open market campaign generated considerable interest resulting in a sale at £466,000, 43% over the £325,000 guide with 56 bids . The private sale was at £365,000, so the online auction delivered £101,000 more with competition!
Online auction could be a very appealing means of selling for many people. Do get in touch and we can explain the process in more detail – we’d be delighted to make you another one of our success stories.
For further information... If you are interested in finding out more about selling by online auction, please contact Tom Dennes, Head of Auctions on 01295 226290 or tom.dennes@fishergerman.co.uk
Impressive and immaculately presented 19th century farmhouse
Brailsford, Derbyshire
• 19th century former farmhouse
• Original features, contemporary design
• Entertaining spaces inside and out
• Large garage, outbuildings
• Barn, stable range, manège
• Landscaped private gardens, paddock
• In all about 2.44 acres
• EPC rating - D
Guide
01332 416790
Malpas, Cheshire
• Located in a private setting
• Extended Georgian residence
• A wealth of period charm
• 5 beautiful bedrooms
• 3 elegant reception rooms
• Kitchen with Aga, wine cellar
• Mature private gardens
• EPC rating - D
Guide price – £1,100,000
01244 409660
A handsome Grade II listed former rectory
Earls Croome, Worcestershire
• Queen Anne former rectory
• Planning consent for an orangery extension
• 3 reception rooms, 7 bedrooms
• Separate annexe, garaging
• Landscaped gardens, peaceful village location
• Tennis court
• Orchard, two fields, countryside views
• In all about 10.56 acres
Guide price – £2,000,000 01905 726220
A beautifullyconverted character property with adjoining equestrian facilities
Antrobus, Cheshire
• Oak-framed bungalow with a modern finish
• Gated driveway with ample parking
• Large contemporary kitchen, 2 reception rooms
• 3 double bedrooms, en suite shower room
• Master suite, walk-in wardrobe, en suite
• Landscaped garden, large entertaining space
• In all about 7.37 acres
• EPC rating - E
Guide price – £1,250,000 01565 757970
An exquisite barn conversion enjoying an elevated position
Barrow Hill, Staffordshire
• Grand reception hallway
• Spacious open plan living-dining kitchen
• Games room, bar, snug
• Spacious master bedroom suite
• 3 further bedrooms, en suite
• Triple garage with electric doors
• Sweeping driveway, landscaped gardens
• EPC rating - C
Well designedmodern home in rural setting with far reaching views
Goadby, Leicestershire
• 7 bedrooms, 3 family bathrooms
• Entrance hall, high quality kitchen
• Open plan dining room and garden room
• Utility, pantry
• Sitting room, family room
• Triple garage and parking area
• Beautiful garden with rural views
• EPC Rating - C
Guide price – £1,250,000 01858 410200
Three bedroom Grade II listed Georgian country house
Croome D’Abitot, Worcestershire
• Detached Grade II listed 3 bedroom house
• Beautifully presented living space
• Double garage, generous residents parking
• Leafy south facing garden
• Positioned within the exclusive Croome Court
• Electric gated entrance
• Landscaped parkland grounds
• Wonderful views to the Malvern Hills
Guide
Colwyn Bay, Conwy
• Substantial family home
• Abundance of living accommodation
• Finished to an exceptional standard
• 6 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms
• Landscaped gardens and grounds
• Sea views
• In all about 1.03 acres
• EPC rating - C
Gardentrends
With colder weather upon us, many gardeners are now more focused on enjoying their garden from inside their homes or perhaps considering changes and developments for next year. Alasdair Dunne explores the trends emerging across the everevolving landscape of country gardens.
Whether you embrace sustainable gardening, edible landscaping or are looking to redesign your outdoor space, trends are emerging that not only focus on aesthetics and functionality, but an increased awareness of environmental priorities. With 30 million gardeners in the UK and more people choosing to spend time in their gardens year on year, our gardens have become an important extension to our indoor living space.
The importance of the interconnectedness of internal and external living spaces is one of the clear changes to emerge over the last few years in the residential property market. Houses that naturally connect with their
Over Alderley, Cheshire
gardens and allow a seamless living experience between inside and outside are in vogue. With a great garden high on homebuyers’ wish lists, it’s clear that more and more people place significant emotional and monetary value on their private outdoor spaces. So , whilst some clear internal trends are present, for example the importance and desirability of a kitchen/breakfast/family room, see pages 7 & 13, what we require from our gardens has been less clear. During the winter months, we explore a few of the trends that have emerged over the last year and consider the best way to utilise our outdoor spaces for the coming seasons.
Environmentalresponsibility
It would be fair to say that many people are developing their sense of environmental consciousness and responsibility. Our understanding of the fragility and importance of our outdoor environment is becoming more developed, creating a greater appreciation of the world we live in and what we might do to enhance our little part of it. We are told that as gardeners we can have a significant impact on the wider landscape and that our carefully tended plots can play an important part in an improved local ecosystem.
Perhaps the most important point to make is that developing an environmentally sustainable garden, capable of enhancing flora and fauna, can be achieved without sacrificing any aesthetic considerations. Improving biodiversity does not necessarily mean creating an untamed wilderness. With some care and research, we can create a space that is not only one we enjoy looking at, but somewhere that nourishes our general well-being whilst supporting the health of its environment.
The RHS are invested in a Sustainability Strategy and a Planet-Friendly Gardening Campaign to demonstrate their commitment to improving environmental sustainability. This year, as part of their selection criteria for inclusion in the Chelsea Flower Show, designers had to satisfy a range of environmental criteria developed to ensure sustainability. Chelsea is always at the forefront of design; where it goes, we do our best to follow.
Over Alderley, Cheshire apartment providing luxury living
• Two storey apartment within Birtles Hall
• Grand architectural features
• Large open plan living kitchen and utility
• 2 large store rooms, perfect for conversion
• Drawing room/sitting room
• 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
• Private parking, extensive communal gardens
• EPC exempt Offers IEO £795,000 01565 757970
Design with productivity in mind...
I’m not sure that many people would have been familiar with the word “edimentals” a few years ago, but it is undoubtedly creeping into more conversations. Edimentals neatly refers to plants which are both edible and ornamental. You can have a beautiful ornamental garden, but that garden can also include some great-looking plants which you can harvest and eat! Fruit trees are of course very familiar, but now gardeners are tucking edimentals alongside their herbaceous perennials to great effect. It’s not unusual to see the amazing multicoloured stems of rainbow chard (great in salads or stir fries), or salsify with its wonderfully spiky purple flowers (fantastic parsnippy taste when roasted), sitting beside geraniums or alliums; perhaps those alliums might even be substituted for their little cousin, the humble chive. For a little more drama, statuesque artichokes can easily take pride of place in a mixed border. And don’t forget the tomato. A well-trained tomato with its tempting fruits can be both an aesthetic beauty and a culinary sensation – what’s not to like? Dig in, and well, dig in…!
A significant village property with mature gardens and grounds
East Haddon, Northamptonshire
• Great character property, 6 bedrooms
• Outbuildings, annexe
• Potential to refurbish and develop
• Mature landscaped gardens and grounds
• Well-positioned outdoor seating areas
• Located in popular rural village
• In all about 0.45 acres
• EPC rating
E
Garden resilience
This is perhaps a guiding principle affecting the choices you make as you develop your garden. Garden resilience refers to the need for plants to withstand both drought and flooding, frosts, and prolonged heatwaves. Whilst undoubtedly a challenge, gardeners can mulch with organic matter to improve their soil, retain moisture, and protect from frost. A well mulched garden will undoubtedly foster healthier plants, naturally more capable of dealing with weather extremes. A compost heap will provide a great wildlife environment while dealing with grass clippings and general garden cuttings
as well as cardboard and paper. In return, you can have all the mulch you need. A water butt will allow you to collect and retain precious rainwater, ready for the dry days. Creating log piles and allowing fallen leaves and cuttings (chop and drop) to remain in the borders will provide great habitat for a variety of natural pest controllers and detritivores who will steadily clean up your garden for you, and yes, the much-maligned slug is one of those – as well as being a feast for your resident blackbird! Finally, as Beth Chatto put it, “right plant, right place” is essential.
A spectacular Grade II listed country residence
Denbigh, Denbighshire
• Exquisitely presented country property
• A wealth of historical features
• 3 impressive reception rooms
• 8 beautiful bedrooms
• 7 bathrooms
• Large gravel driveway
• Private gardens and woodland
• In all about 4.56 acres
Guide price – £1,250,000 01244 409660
Click to find out more
And what about design?
Open-air sitting rooms, dining rooms and kitchens are all highly desirable and underline our commitment to outdoor living. Many are now making decisions about how they use their garden space in the same way as they make decisions about how they use the rooms inside their house. For example, some people require both a formal drawing room and a relaxed playroom, and in the same way they might create an outdoor space to quietly read a book after lunch but also a mini football field! In this way, garden design can be seen as mirroring interior design, creating sophisticated extensions of our homes.
Finding the right sort of garden for your home will naturally flow from these considerations; whether it be a space for relaxation, entertainment or to connect with nature, a well-designed garden space considers functionality and style. A family house will probably need a familyorientated garden with space to play. A pied-à-terre may require a low-maintenance terrace. Yet some things are universally popular: an outdoor dining area is a must for most homes, shielded from winds and shaded from too much sun, with comfortable seating and ambient lighting.
Design materials that seem particularly favoured by garden designers lean towards the use of rustic and textured elements. Recycled or upcycled is “in”, which reflects a general growing commitment to sustainability and improving our environment. In a move away from hard landscaping and excessive use of cement,
expect to see reclaimed timber and permeable materials like gravel which will help to avoid flooding. Where hardscaping is required, reclaimed stone paving and bricks offer great character and are very desirable. Corten, or weathering steel, is becoming increasingly popular and seems to blend very well with modern designs. The steel contains up to 60% recycled content, is recyclable and its durability and long lifespan reduce its environmental impact.
It is always difficult to predict colour trends. Ask two designers where trends will go next and one will tell you it’s about colour, that subtle is out and joyful and warm is in. The other will almost certainly contradict this view.
Perhaps colour is all about what you love, so confidently choose the colours you wish to see as you develop your perfect garden.
Substantial former farmhouse with an excellent leisure wing and generous gardens
Hoar Cross, Staffordshire
• Substantial former farmhouse
• A range of formal and entertaining spaces
• Excellent leisure wing with swimming pool
• Generous gardens and terraces
• Detached one bedroom cottage
• Paddock land of around 4.10 acres
• An idyllic elevated position
• In all about 6.21 acres
Stamp Duty
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is payable to HMRC when buying property or land over a certain value. SDLT is payable to HMRC in the UK with the exception of Scotland where they have their own Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) and Wales have Land Transaction Tax (LTT).
Stamp Duty Land Tax is levied progressively, in a similar way to income tax. Calculating your liability to this progressive tax can be complex. It can depend on the type of property you are buying, and whether it is your principal private home, a second or third home or a commercial or mixed-use property. Below we break down what Stamp Duty you would be charged depending on a variety of factors.
Purchasing a Sole Residential Property
If you are purchasing a residential property, are not a first-time buyer, are a UK resident and this will be the only property you will own and (whether you live in it or not), then you will pay Stamp Duty if the transaction price is above £250,000. Thereafter, you pay tax as follows:
• The next £675,000 (the portion from £250,001 to £925,000) – 5%
• The next £575,000 (the portion from £925,001 to £1.5 million) – 10%
• The remaining amount (the portion above £1.5 million) – 12%
Purchasing as a First-Time Buyer
There is a discount for first-time buyers. A first purchase of up to £425,000 no longer attracts the tax, and the existing rate of 5% applies on the portion from £425,001 to £625,000. The relief does not apply to properties above £625,000.
Second Home, Buy-to-let Property or Holiday Home
Anyone purchasing a second home or buy-to-let property above £40,000 (unless this is the only property you own) will have to pay an additional 5% on top of the amounts detailed on the left.
If you are purchasing a new property which you intend to use as your only home, but haven’t yet sold your previous house, you would have to pay the higher rates detailed on the left – however, if you sell your old house within 36 months you could get a refund.
Non-Residential or Mixed Use Property
Purchasing a property with significant land holdings can attract a different stamp duty calculation. If the property is classified as nonresidential or mixed-use land and property there is a stepped regime as follows:
• Up to £150,000 – 0%
• Above £150,000 and up to £250,000 – 2%
• Above £250,000 – 5%
Our agency teams are highly knowledgeable and are often asked to provide advice about SDLT so please do get in touch with any questions you may have. To make life a little easier, our website has an online Stamp Duty calculator to cut through the often confusing world of SDLT and save you time – you can find it here:
Helping you to navigate the mortgage maze
To support you in navigating the mortgage market, we are really pleased to introduce you to our preferred property finance partners, Cherry Street Finance. We talked to Rhiannon Tandy about the importance of using a trusted adviser.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a buyto-let guru or simply looking for a better deal, navigating through the wide range of mortgage providers can be confusing and time-consuming. It can be difficult to know where to start. When it comes to buying property, for many a mortgage is inevitable and going to the right mortgage broker, rather than straight to your bank, can pay dividends. If you don’t get the right advice early, you could end up with the wrong mortgage for your situation, which would be a costly mistake in the long run if more competitive or relevant options were available.
It’s important to speak with us early in your buying or selling process, as the sooner you speak to us, the more prepared you’ll be when entering any negotiations as you’ll be fully aware of your options. We can advise you on how to get your finances mortgageready and offer tips on how to improve your chances of getting a mortgage. Going direct to a bank or building society means you will only have access to the mortgage deals it offers. By contrast, we will scour all corners of the market to uncover the deals that are best suited to your circumstances.
Along with advising you on the mortgage itself, we can also handle the application process and keep you informed of its progress with the lender. This can be invaluable at such a busy time of your life,
leaving you free to focus on other matters. Quite often, we have long-established relationships with lenders so we will, for example, have regular conversations about criteria updates and policy changes. This can really put you at an advantage when it comes to getting the all-important green light for your mortgage. It’s important to remember when you’re calculating how much you can afford to borrow, you’ll need to think about other costs involved in buying a home.
We all know the housing market has been unpredictable and rates can change with lenders quickly. Whether they go up or down we are notified of these changes early so we can make sure that our clients are still getting the best deal even if things do change along the way.
One in six people are refused a mortgage and 54% of those people then find it takes three months longer, on average, to get approved for a new mortgage. You need to be going to the right lender the first time to avoid any unnecessary delays in the process.
No matter how complex, we can advise on bespoke lending for bespoke properties –not all lenders will offer a mortgage, but as brokers, we understand lender criteria and can make sure you’re matched with the right lender in the first instance.
We can also help those who are selling with an onward purchase or move in mind. If you need funds to make this happen, we’re here to assist. We have access to lenders who provide short-term lending solutions
to meet tight timescales, keep chains together or fund refurbishments of properties that would otherwise be deemed ‘unmortgageable’ on the high street.
Your borrowing power is based on a range of factors such as your income and expenses, your dependents, and any assets or outstanding debts you might have. Some lenders will offer more borrowing based on certain professions such as nurses or solicitors for example, while others look at the source of income in the case of business owners and contractors.
It is important to understand that credit rating does not always mean you are mortgage ready; some lenders can and will take a view on your credit history but there are many more factors that can come into play when getting approved for a mortgage. These can be how complex is the income, how long has someone
been self employed for, if they are self employed how are they paying themselves. The property itself can also play a big part in if you are approved for a mortgage as well. Our advice will direct you to the right bank or building society to match your circumstances.
Just because a mortgage doesn’t have a fee payable doesn’t mean that it is going to be the most cost-effective option for you. Often no or low mortgage fees may not always be the best option and we will explore and explain the differences for you.
There are an increasing number of lenders offering better rates for energy-efficient mortgages. These are for properties with an EPC rating between A and B to stimulate and finance investment in energy-efficient buildings and energysaving renovations to secure a greener and more sustainable future.
Residential housing transactions were 10% higher in August 2024 than August 2023 according to HMRC data. This increase has come from lower mortgage rates. The market is still unpredictable, but it is certainly a lot more positive than it has been in the last couple of years.
There are some lenders changing their criteria to help first time buyers, one lender offering up to 6 times income whereas a lot of lenders offer 4.5 times income as standard.”
Rhiannon Tandy from Cherry Street Finance
Scope of service
Fisher German LLP is a leading national firm of specialist property consultants, chartered surveyors and planners, adding value to our clients through understanding, creativity and excellence. There are over 800 of us and we work out of 26 offices throughout the UK. We work for a broad range of clients in 12 core market sectors. A selection of the heads of these sectors are listed on this page together with contact numbers that you might find useful if you need advice about any topic relating to property and land.
Alasdair Dunne Residential & Rural 07501 720412
George Simpson Utilities & Infrastructure 07810 378185
David Merton Rural 07770 333331
Ben Marshalsay Development 07771 974322
Mike Price Commercial 07909 596051
Darren Edwards Green Energy & Sustainability 07918 677571
Thinking of buying or selling?
Fisher German has an extensive network offering exceptional national coverage. If you are looking to buy or sell residential or agricultural property we will be delighted to help you.
Please call us or email: property@fishergerman.co.uk if you would like a free market appraisal or if you would like us to help you with your property search.
Source magazine is intended to be informative but further advice should be taken before decisions are finalised. Prices are correct at time of launch. Fisher German LLP has tried to ensure accuracy and cannot accept liability for any errors, fact or opinion. Date of production November 2024
