l r, or ca e o lo ap r d ur y p ou Yo ert to y op d pr ere liv de
London & Southern Edition
February 2016
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH P9 INVESTMENT P15 MORTGAGES P23 INTERIORS P42 GARDENING P46
Sweet 16?
Take a break –
our favourite holiday homes for sale P6-7
– the property industry’s predictions for the year ahead P3
One of the most exclusive addresses in Mill Hill.
Computer generated illustration indicative only.
Final elegantly appointed apartments now released
Completions from March 2016
Available to view
Information Centre and Showhomes open daily 10am - 5pm
2 and 3 bedroom apartments from £875,000 - £1,850,000 For further information telephone 01753 336594, email sales.oxford@berkeleyhomes.co.uk or visit www.stjosephsgate.co.uk St Joseph’s Gate, Lawrence Street, Mill Hill, London, NW7 4JZ
London, Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Isle of Wight – Find your new home at Whathouse.com
Meridian Waterside, Southampton
Inland Homes. Bringing land to life.
Inland Homes are currently regenerating areas across the South providing quality homes with an emphasis on design and sustainability. Visit our fabulous range of Showhomes to discover more.
The Comptons,Wooburn Green
St Johns, Chelmsford
DEVELOPMENTS INCLUDE: Carter’s Quay, Poole 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses
COMING SOON:
St John’s, Chelmsford 2 & 4 bedroom houses
Meridian Waterside, Southampton 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses
The Comptons, Wooburn Green 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses Park House, Loudwater Studio & 1 bedroom apartments
Alexandra Gardens, Iver
Alexandra Gardens, Iver 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses
Boreham, Essex 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses Basingstoke, Hampshire Collection of apartments
Carter’s Quay, Poole
For further details call 01494 762 450 or email sales@inlandhomes.co.uk
Showhome open at this development
Please check website for current availability. Computer generated illustrations are indicative only and subject to change.
www.inlandhomes.co.uk
Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes
predictions 3
Property market A predictions
Welcome!
We look at what some of the property industry’s experts believe is in store for the housing market in 2016, with topics such as new homes supply, interest rates and stamp duty changes affect first-time buyers, families, downsizers and investors. certainly a boost for the housing sector and a positive step towards increasing housing supply. The need for more homes is very real and the sector needs to adapt to ensure it plays its greatest role in addressing the housing shortage. This will lead to housing associations becoming even more innovative in the way they approach development of new homes.”
Weston Homes founder and chairman Bob Weston: “I see the market under a million pounds being stable. We’ve had our post-recession bubble so I think house prices will move marginally above inflation. The top end – two million pounds plus – will be different. It’s not just higher stamp duty; low oil prices and a strong pound will continue to have an effect. The new stamp duty rates for second homes, coming through in April, will only add to this. In terms of its impact on buy-to-let, it’s bound to make some think twice.” James Wyatt, partner of prime Surrey estate agency, Barton Wyatt: “The top end of the market (over £5m) is in the slaughterhouse. Another government stab in the back for those investing for their retirement. Watch very strong sales up to £300,000 in Q1 then listen to the tumbleweed. We are likely to see our [Bank of England] base rate shift up in Q3 or Q4. Despite its inevitability, the increase will spook just about everyone with mortgages.” Maud Rousseau, group marketing and communications director of SearchFlow: “Our conveyancing sentiment tracker reveals that 27% of conveyancers believe transaction levels will increase by up to 20% this year. The government has outlined its
commitment to encourage first-time buyers to the market. The entry of this important group will be vital to ensure the fluidity of the market. The conveyancing industry is very likely to see a rush to complete [buy-tolet] property purchases prior to April, followed by a sharp drop in transaction levels. However, this is likely to settle later in the year.” Property expert Kate Faulkner: “The main game changer moving forward is that both Chancellor George Osborne and governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney are keen to stop the huge hikes we’ve seen in property prices in the past and their efforts appear to be gaining momentum. My main fear for 2016 is that it may end up in a real ‘freezing’ of the property market from a stock perspective, with little to sell and little to rent, leading to fewer people being able or wanting to risk moving if there isn’t much choice.” Dave Bexon, group sales and marketing director of Redrow Homes: “We’re confident of making significant progress and launching further new developments. Our offering to customers will widen in line with plans to open more developments featuring our Regent and Abode product, alongside our traditional Heritage Collection. We look forward to receiving more
details on government plans to assist housebuilders to improve supply and we’ll continue to tackle the skills shortage so we’re geared up to build the number of homes needed.” Glen Wilson, head of property, SME banking, at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking: “To further support the drive to tackle the housing shortage, we have launched a £100m Housing Growth Fund for small and medium-sized housebuilders to back nationwide housing construction projects, with our £50m of equity backed by the government with an additional £50m investment.” Jason Rishover, chief executive Heronslea Group: “A lot of our customers are downsizers, taking advantage of the price rises over recent years and swapping their family home for modern lateral apartment living, which has become the new bungalow for retirees. The market is still strong due to high demand outweighing supply; however, an increase in interest rates or a sudden surge of property on to the market will impact sales and values.” Clare Crawford, commercial director at Aster Homes: “The chancellor’s announcement in his Autumn Statement of a doubling of the national housing budget is
Andrew Ellinas, director of Sandfords: “We have seen many potential vendors choosing to stay put and spend the money that would have been expended as stamp duty on a purchase in refurbishing or extending their present home. This is currently particularly evident with family properties. I predict that price increases in the prime central London market in 2016 will be modest with some areas experiencing growth and others seeing prices remaining fairly static.” Financial services director at Waterfords, Sean Wickes: “It would appear that the flavour for an increase in interest rates is beginning to wane again as inflation remains low, suggesting the market does not look poised for a rise just yet. There has never been a cheaper time to borrow and the public are taking full advantage of the great low cost mortgage deals available, which we anticipate will continue through much of 2016.” Paul Smith, CEO at haart: “The top end of the property m a r k e t , particularly in London, will see a price correction in 2016 because of the impact of stamp duty, consisting of a 10% drop in value for homes over £1m. However, this will have no bearing on the core property market, which will experience further average price increases in 2016 of up to 10% across the UK.”
elated Happy New Year b to all, in our first issue of 2016. The festive lull in the housing industry is well and truly over. Indeed, we hit the ground running from our first day back in the office, with the Prime Minister’s announcement of the first five sites the government is targeting to get its Starter Home Initiative under way. A government press release out of the blue is nothing new but it certainly stirred the WhatHouse? editorial team out of any remaining slumber. The 13,000 homes proposed for these sites – spread from Hampshire to East Anglia – is only a small proportion of what is needed across the whole country of course. This was followed a couple of weeks later with a Ministry of Defence announcement of the disposal of 13 redundant sites in England and Wales that will be sold off to housebuilders. This would provide space for around 55,000 new homes from Portsmouth to Edinburgh and generate a rather handy £1bn for the budget-stricken MoD. More recently, Redrow has announced the initial phase of homes for Britain’s first Garden City in Ebbsfleet, Kent, where some 15,000 new properties will be built over the coming years. Great news for this area, but it will only deliver a fraction of the million new homes that the government has committed itself to in this parliament. While we still seem uncertain about exactly how all the homes we need might get built – with developers, councils and others still arguing about whether landbanking, planning constraints or materials/labour shortages are at the root of the problem – recent forecasts suggest the Bank of England might wait even longer to raise interest rates from their record low. While these big issues unfold around us, we’re very busy here making our website (www. whathouse.com) and newspaper even better this year. We completely redesigned the website last year and have continued with some major changes, including a revamped new homes search function and an expanded ‘KnowHow’ page, which combines our tips and advice with daily news and features. Visit the website to sign up to our daily newsletter for the very latest about new homes across Britain. We’re back monthly from our March issue – until then, happy house-hunting!
Keith Keith Osborne, editor. ko@whathouse.com @keithosborne69
VIRIDIUM
PRICES FROM £280,950
Camberley, Surrey Luxury collection of 1 and 2 bed apartments & 2 and 3 bed penthouses
To book an appointment
* New show apartment available to view * Award winning development 2015 FTB awards
call: 01276 66693
* Gated entrance with parking * Stunning spacious apartments with balcony or terrace * Individually designed kitchens and bathrooms
HODSON
* Help to Buy available*
DE VELOPMENTS
*Help to buy available subject to T&Cs. Please note that external image is CGI of development and internal image is of show apartment.
Rupert Bates, editorial director of WhatHouse? has been a property journalist for 25 years. He is an award-winning writer who started on local newspapers before becoming a columnist on The Daily Telegraph. He presents the annual WhatHouse? Awards, edits leading housebuilding magazine Show House and is property correspondent of The Field magazine.
A chance to win £50 It couldn’t be simpler – just ‘follow’ us on Twitter (@What_House) One of our new followers from 1 to 29 February 2016 will win £50 in Marks and Spencer vouchers
Keith Osborne started writing about property 14 years ago and has been editor of Whathouse. com since 2010. He is currently a columnist in housebuilding trade magazine Show House and has previously written for Homes Overseas magazine. He has also been a part of the WhatHouse? Awards judging panel for a number of years.
Managing director Daniel Hill Editorial director Rupert Bates Editor Keith Osborne ko@whathouse.com Assistant editor Stephen Maunder sm@whathouse.com Chief sub-editor Suzanne Frost Designer Sarah Davies Contributors Nick Parkhouse Richenda Oldham Fiona Brandhorst Helen Christie Sales director Adrian Talbot at@globespanmedia.com Sales manager Murad Paloba mp@whathouse.com Sales Ian Richardson ir@whathouse.com Sales Bob Faulkner bf@whathouse.com Sales Charles Spiteri cs@whathouse.com Advertsing sales David Wright dw@whathouse.com Cover photo: Dunmow Hill in Fleet, Hampshire, from Hamptons International; 01252 360590
Published by: Globespan Media Limited, 291-299 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JG T: 020 7940 1070 E: info@globespanmedia.com W: www.whathouse.com Printed by 39zero / Distributed by Royal Mail © 2015 Globespan Media Limited WhatHouse?, ISSN: 02691310
What House?
@What_House
No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publishers. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors and omissions.
NHBC – the mark of a quality home Before you buy a new home, make sure it has Buildmark, which provides you with 10 years’ warranty and insurance. Then you’ll know it’s good quality and that your investment is protected.
0844 633 1000 www.nhbcnewhomes.co.uk
NHBC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. NHBC is registered in England and Wales under company number 00320784. NHBC’s registered address is NHBC House, Davy Avenue, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, Bucks, MK5 8FP. J441 09/15
6 six appeal
Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes
One Lusty Glaze, Newquay, Cornwall From £180,000 to £720,000 This development, located just minutes from Lusty Glaze Beach, offers 36 contemporary one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, a four-bedroom penthouse with views across Newquay Bay and three three-bedroom houses. There is easy access to Newquay’s 11 beaches, the South West Coast Path and the town centre, with all its amenities within walking distance of these new homes. Designed to take advantage of Cornwall’s temperate climes and the setting sun, each apartment has a terrace or balcony extending from the open-plan living area. The floorto-ceiling windows bask the apartments in natural light, creating bright and spacious interiors. Apartments are fitted with the latest kitchens and bathrooms creating a
contemporary coastal lifestyle. Each apartment has an allocated parking space along with an individual surf store, ideal if you wish to enjoy North Cornwall’s Atlantic swell or the many outdoor pursuits the county is famous for. One Lusty Glaze is due for completion in the summer of 2016, with 50% of units already sold.
From: Acorn Blue Contact: 01637 876000
Six appeal Our pick of UK holiday homes currently on the market The Meadows, Lazonby, Cumbria From £273,950
Set in countryside between the Lake District National Park and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the village of Lazonby is perfectly placed for anyone who loves the landscapes of the north of England, and The Meadows would make the perfect base. Set in the heart of the village, The Meadows is a collection of two-, three- and four-bedroom properties. Inspired by the established homes of the area, red ‘Lazonby’ sandstone provides the façades of these homes, complemented by brick and render to offer a unique look to every home. The ‘Arundel’ show home demonstrates
the way these traditionally inspired exteriors are matched by an equally appealing interior, with a layout and specification that today’s homebuyers expect. Despite its idyllic setting, the village is by no means isolated, with the M6 motorway only 10 minutes away, the pretty market town of Penrith eight miles away and Carlisle 17 miles distant. There’s also a station, situated on the much-admired Settle-Carlisle route, one of the UK’s most scenic railway lines
From: Story Homes Contact: 07811 985889
The Kilns, Edinburgh • From £136,500
In the suburb of Burdiehouse, Barratt Homes is building two-, three- and four-bedroom homes starting at £126,000 at The Kilns. Just inside the City of Edinburgh Bypass, the location offers easy access to the scenic Pentland Hills, situated on the doorstep of this development. The properties themselves are landscaped around the historic lime kilns that give the scheme its name. Edinburgh has wealth of other places of interest to visit at every time of the year, from the tranquil bliss of its countryside
and numerous galleries to great shopping, superb cuisine and nightlife, and the colour and bustle of its annual Fringe Festival. One walk through its streets shows the diversity of people who enjoy their holidays in the Scottish capital. Over 50 homes already accommodate their residents and the current phase of homes is due for completion in spring/summer 2016.
From: Barratt Homes Contact: 0844 811 6633
For the latest on the property market
six appeal 7
@What_House
Freshford Mill, Freshford, Somerset • From £522,000 At the south of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the development provides a rare opportunity to buy a new home in such a sought-after location. There will be 21 properties, some created from the renovation of longneglected historic buildings, others sympathetically created alongside. The homes vary from a twobedroom apartment to a fivebedroom house. All properties will have access to their own private outdoor space, in the form of balconies over the river or lake, or beautifully landscaped gardens, designed by award-winning landscape designer Julie Johnson.
The development seeks to bring the old buildings back to former glories and improve the site as a whole, with natural materials such as stone and rough-sawn timber being used externally and internally to coordinate the scheme and help it fit into its surroundings. Some of the new homes will come complete with underfloor heating and statement fireplaces, and a high-tech feature which will allow large wall-mounted televisions to be converted into mirrors when not in use.
From: Environ Communities Contact:01225 864429
‘Cago Cottage’, Sway, Lymington, Hampshire • Guide price £925,000 ‘Honeysuckle Cottage’, Newquay, Cornwall Guide price £600,000 This immaculately finished threebedroom detached coastal home enjoys views over the golden sands of Porth Beach. This property is being offered for sale for the first time since its construction in the 1993 and its remains presented and finished to the highest standards throughout, providing a comfortable family home as well as being perfectly suited for those seeking a holiday home.
The property has a spacious hallway which leads either into the open-plan kitchen/dining area or the more formal sitting room opposite. The kitchen is fitted with bespoke oak base and wall-mounted units, complemented by granite work surfaces and high end appliances. The sitting room has been decorated in neutral colours and provides a light, airy and spacious room with feature multi-fuel stove. The three
bedrooms are spacious and the bathroom has both freestanding bath and double shower cubicle. The property has a single garage, ample outdoor parking, an attractive front garden and mainly decked back garden, with space for water sports equipment.
From: Country & Waterside Prestige Contact: 01730 817979
A fun and delightful character holiday home retreat, comprising a range of exterior entertainment areas together with a refurbished thatched period home, set in grounds of just under 1.6 acres, within close proximity to the coastline and forest villages of nearby Sway and Brockenhurst. Reputed to have been derived from a woodman’s cottage, the property has been enlarged and remodelled over the years, retaining much of its traditional charm with open fires and beamwork. The garden houses a diverse array of outbuildings in the form of a games room (being sold with a
full-size snooker table and cinema screen), stables with extensive areas of covered storage to the rear and a heated Wendy house which can sleep four youngsters. There is also a treehouse, barbeque area, tennis court, boule pitch, small football pitch and fenced paddock with karting track. The main property has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, a sitting room and generous farmhouse-style kitchen/ breakfast room.
From: John D Wood Contact: 01590 677233
8 property of the month
Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes
Follow the Meridian line
For the latest on the property market
@What_House
property of the month 9
A brand new home on the exclusive Dormans Park estate exemplifies the work of Tkei Homes
D
rmans Park is a o private residential park with its origins in the 19th century. The Park nestles on the West Sussex and Surrey borders. This tranquil environment is surprisingly close to London with excellent transport links, Dormans Park having its own train station. Given its proximity to London, you still benefit from easy access to the countryside and the south coast. Lingfield is a few miles away with its well-renowned racecourse and local facilities. Meridian House is the latest home from Tkei Homes, covering just over 3,000 sq ft including five double bedrooms, three en suites, one family bathroom, a large open-plan kitchen and family room and three further reception rooms. The garden is beautifully landscaped and overall the property has mature screening to offer plenty of privacy. As you approach the property via the electronic wooden gates, there is plenty of parking outside the double garage. The block paving sweeps round to the steps with built-in lighting, taking you to an attractive tile-covered porch. As you enter through the front door, you are greeted with a generous hallway with beautiful Porcelanosa tiling that stretches through to the kitchen and family room. The large picture window over the staircase adds to the feel of this impressive entrance. The hallway panelling is a lovely addition together with the underfloor heating. The kitchen is a contemporary take on a shaker-style kitchen with hand-painted doors in charcoal grey. The two ovens, a microwave, coffee machine, dishwasher, five-ring gas
hob, in-built counter-top lighting and other details make this a great place to cook, and the breakfast bar keeps the whole environment social. The breakfast area leads through to a bright family room, helped by the dual-aspect views of the garden and the glass lantern above. The living room is generous in size enhanced by the attractive stone fireplace and wood-burner with French doors leading to the garden. There are two further reception rooms with large attractive bay windows, both of which can offer multiple uses. A dressing area adjoins the master bedroom, complete with ample builtin wardrobes and drawers, while a beautiful en suite features Porcelanosa tiling, integrated storage and underfloor heating. The remaining double bedrooms are all generous rooms, two of which have their own ensuites. Tkei Homes has successfully built many homes across Surrey, Sussex and Kent, from single-home to multipleunit developments, ranging in price from £500,000 to £2m. All properties usually include designer kitchen, underfloor heating, Villerory and Boch bathrooms and in-built music systems. Forthcoming developments will include four detached family houses in Cuckfield, West Sussex and three detached five-bedroom properties in Beckenham, London. Details will be launched later in the year and will be available in 2017. Meridian House in Dormans Park is available now for £1.25m. Find out more at info@tkei.co.uk; 01932 837690
FEATURES OF MERIDIAN HOUSE: • Large entrance hall and WC • Living room • Kitchen/dining family room • Utility room • Two further reception rooms • Master bedroom with en suite and dressing area • Two bedrooms with en suites • Two further double bedroom • Family bathroom • Double garage • Parking • Electric gates
Traditional style. Contemporary design.
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Show home open, 10am-4pm, 7 days a week Now complete and ready for occupation, an exclusive development of brand new townhouses. Set in 275 acres of Kentish parkland between two renowned golf courses, yet under 30 minutes to Canary Wharf.** Sundridge Park is truly unique.
To arrange a viewing, please call:
020 8313 9163
www.sundridge-park.co.uk
Prices from ÂŁ1,175,000 *Terms and Conditions Apply **From Sundridge Park train station (Source: National Rail)
Willoughby Lane off Plaistow Lane, Bromley, Kent BR1 3TP
london
Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes
Agent insight Is there a point during the buying, selling or letting process that is particularly vulnerable to cyber-crime? It is generally at the later stages of a transaction that involve the exchange of sensitive details culminating with an electronic transfer of funds. However, cyber-criminals are aware of the timelines so it’s best to remain alert throughout the entire process.
We speak to Richard Davies, executive director and head of residential at Chestertons, about how to guard against cyber-crime during a property transaction
Should I be worried about cybercrime when searching for properties online? It’s unlikely; however, as soon as you start registering to receive details from websites and estate agents, you should be careful. Give just enough details for companies to get in touch with you as required. Do not give any bank details at this point. When should I take conversations “offline”? Treat all communications via email, online forms or social media as potentially visible to hackers and fraudsters. If you want to give sensitive details including names, addresses, bank details, etc, then it’s
probably best to pick up the phone or go into a branch so there will be no electronic trail. What does a fraudulent email look like? It will look exactly the same as an email that you would expect to receive, complete with official-looking headers or footers, long chunks of small-print or compliance statements about FSA regulation, etc. Check the actual address the email is from by hovering over the “reply to” address with your mouse. Be aware of ‘urgent’ headings like “Important account update” or “transaction suspended”. NEVER click a link asking you to “reset your password”, “update your details” or “check your account”; your bank or solicitor will not send an email like this. Spelling errors, unusual or incorrect grammar, poor punctuation and missing/incorrect information should ring alarm bells. If you are worried your email or bank account has been hacked, log out of the email and open a new browser window to log into your account independently. Better still, pick up the phone.
What makes a cybercriminal or fraudulent email seem credible? Some email scams are very sophisticated and rely on using a few pieces of relevant information such as your name, address or financial details (many of which may be in the public domain) to win your confidence and to prevent your suspicion. How do I know whom to trust? Get to know the names of everyone involved in your transaction and preferably meet them in person and at their place of work. If someone calls or emails on behalf of your solicitor, bank, estate agent or surveyor, don’t inadvertently give away relevant information, such as the name of the person you have dealt with. Don’t reply to emails you don’t recognise; contact the relevant person or firm to verify they are trying to get in touch.
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use the same login details across multiple accounts. Use a strong password with a mixture of letters, cases, numbers and special characters. Never share them or write them down, and be careful whom you copy in to your emails as you are potentially widening the exposure if your or their email account is compromised. Treat a property sale as a confidential business transaction never share relevant or sensitive data – including addresses and exchange dates via social media. A reputable business they should have their own dedicated and secure mail server such as firstname.lastname@ companyname.com webmail address not @gmail.com or @yahoo.co.uk; if not, ask why not!
How can I minimise risk when choosing which professionals to instruct? Always check professional credentials and ask for personal recommendations. Many professional membership bodies will have listings or an online checker you can use to verify that your agent, lawyer, lender or surveyor really is accredited and hasn’t been disbarred or suspended.
What should I do if I suspect fraud? Report it directly to the company using a name or contact that you know to be correct. If you think your account has been hacked, reset the password and delete non-essential correspondence, particularly from your sent folder. Most email providers allow you to report suspect emails as junk or phishing scams easily online, check their website to find the exact address. If it doesn’t sound quite right, then it probably isn’t.
What IT measures can help keep me safe? Change passwords regularly and don’t
Find out more at www.sandfords.com; 020 7723 9988
A collection of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom homes across London with flexible buying options available.
PRICES FROM
£255,000 DISCOVER MORE AT NETWORKLIVING.CO.UK Speak to Sales Advisor regarding flexible buying options. Terms and Conditions apply. Prices are correct at time of going to press.
St Joseph’s Gate Showhome
Individual style in a unique setting. With the last few remaining and Stamp Duty paid on selected plots* do not miss the last opportunity to buy at St Joseph’s Gate.
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or homebuyers seeking something a little different, and with only a handful of stunning properties remaining, now is the time to visit St Joseph's Gate to ensure you do not miss the opportunity to secure one of these exciting new and refurbished 2 and 3 bedroom apartments by Berkeley. St Joseph’s Gate parkland
With the added attraction of Stamp Duty paid on selected
homes* visitor interest on these magnificent properties is high. Call today to book your appointment to walk the available plots and experience the space, style and superior finishes of these exquisite apartments. Discover for yourself what life at St Joseph’s Gate could be like, before it’s too late.
Berkeley look forward to welcoming more discerning purchasers into this unique environment, where the skilful blending of modern and historic has created homes of superlative quality, a factor that has been highly influential in the remarkable sales success achieved.
With completions from March and the impressive circa 8,500 sq ft Chapel still to be launched,
This select collection of apartments, ranging in size from 1,200 to 2,500 sq ft, presents the
St Joseph’s Gate Showhome
rare opportunity to acquire a home of unique individuality and style in a historic 7 acre setting, thoughtfully landscaped to create a tranquil oasis of calm and serenity. Establishing new levels of luxury living in Mill Hill, St Joseph's Gate has been expertly restored by Berkeley, combining modern, high specification interiors with the charm and uniqueness of this renowned landmark. Specifications throughout are to Berkeley’s unmatched standards of excellence, with state-ofthe-art kitchens, luxuriously appointed bathrooms and advanced technology systems. Grade II listed, the scheme retains many characterful and ornate features of the original structure, while new build elements faithfully reflect the architectural
heritage of the past. Accessed via remotely controlled gates, residents also enjoy the benefit of a concierge service. Berkeley is renowned for providing the very best in customer service and one recent purchaser who appreciated Berkeley’s commitment to this is Michael Rosenberg, who downsized from a detached 6 bedroom house in Hertfordshire. After looking at a number of other properties in the area Mr Rosenberg visited the Information Centre and Showhome, met the Berkeley sales team and decided that an apartment at St Joseph’s Gate suited him perfectly. He wanted a home that offered a high quality living environment both inside and out, was conveniently close to central London, yet had a rural feel to it. The magnificent grounds were a major plus point, providing him with the opportunity to enjoy the open ‘garden’ space while someone else took care of all the maintenance! Mr Rosenberg commented – ‘The Berkeley support team were more than helpful in assisting with the
Computer generated illustration indicative only
buying process and guiding me through the technical aspects of the apartment such as lighting, heating, sound system etc. The concierge support was extremely helpful and continues to be so. I have had a number of questions inevitably as I settled in and all have been dealt with quickly and efficiently by the post move team that was allocated to me. I have had a number of friends and family visiting since the move
St Joseph’s Gate Showhome
and without exception they have all been hugely impressed by the standard of finish and quality of the apartment and its position. I had expected to suffer withdrawal symptoms as a result of such a major move but the process was so smooth that this has not been the case and I am extremely happy with my decision.’ Discover the appeal of St Joseph’s Gate for yourself by visiting soon. To book your appointment and for the opportunity to view the Showhome, open daily 10am-5pm, please contact the Information Centre on 01753 336594. 2 and 3 bedroom apartments from £875,000 - £1,850,000 Coming soon - The Chapel - a unique luxuriously refurbished 4 bedroom character home offering spacious open-plan living of approximately 8,500 sq ft. Price guide £5,500,000
St Joseph’s Gate Showhome
Information Centre and Showhomes open daily from 10am - 5pm, Lawrence Street, Mill Hill, London NW7 4JZ. Telephone 01753 336594 www.stjosephsgate.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies
*Subject to terms and conditions and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Please speak to a Sales Consultant for further details. Prices and details correct at time of going to print.
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LUXURY LIVING FOR THE OVER 55S NEAR BATH A collection of fourteen, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2 & 3 bedroom cottages located in the beautiful heritage village of Norton St Philip, 6 miles south of Bath. Designed and finished exclusively for the over 55s and positioned in a unique setting and part of a multi-award winning development.
OPEN TO VIEW FRIDAY TO SUNDAY 10 A M - 4 PM Apartments priced from £250,000 - £347,500
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Houses priced from £500,000 - £539,500
t: 0203 468 4933 | e: cgleed@savills.com For more information please visit www.churchview-nsp.co.uk
Prices correct at time of going to print
Winner
Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes
investment
15
Beat the clock With a stamp duty surcharge on buy-to-let property being introduced on 1 April, we speak to Jerald Solis, business development and acquisitions director for specialists Experience Invest
Please tell us a little about yourself and Experience Invest. I’ve enjoyed a career in the real estate sales, marketing, development and investment industry that spans 20 years. I now head the business development and acquisitions departments where I take each and every project from acquisition to concept, design and then launch. Trading since 2004, Experience Invest is a London-based independent property specialist which offers opportunities to property investors in the UK and overseas, through providing exclusive investments across a variety of asset classes.
may shift attention to alternative opportunities such as student accommodation, which is typically available at a lower entry level. Our team also expects that investors will look for opportunities in the north – where property prices are much lower than London and the south-east of England. Although the higher rate of stamp duty may put some investors off, property will still offer higher returns than many investment options and will remain popular. New changes may be “the end of BTL as we know it”; however, money can be and will still be made from the market.
The stamp duty surcharge on buy-to-let (BTL) property has led some to consider “the end of BTL as we know it” - what are your thoughts on its consequences this year? The additional 3% stamp duty tax on buy-to-let property and second homes will come into play from April 2016. This is a step the government has taken to reduce buy-to-let demand and to give everyday people the chance to become a homeowner. The increased rate will make it difficult for investors to achieve a higher yield in the short-term. This may initially put some investors off. However, a lot of professional investors and landlords view property as a longterm investment and as a source of a regular, passive income. They may even think of it as an alternative pension. These people will look to recoup the higher initial cash outlay through holding on to their asset. Investors could still make money developing or repositioning property, home extensions, loft or basement or converting houses into flats or building purpose-built developments. These options come with a price tag which will leave many landlords with no other option than to pass on some of the cost to renters by putting prices up. At Experience Invest we have seen a slight rush of sales from clients who wish to invest in buy-to-let property before the new stamp duty rates are introduced. It is yet to be seen what the higher rates will do to the market; however, our team expects changes will have a greater impact on properties at the higher end of the market. Investors may seek opportunities towards the bottom of the scale to avoid facing a higher tax bill; this
Do you have a ‘typical’ investor client? We do not have a typical investor. Many of our clients are from all walks of life and from different countries around the world. Their requirements vary, which makes some investments more suitable than others. For example, some of our clients are looking for a retirement income. This type of investor looks for a fully managed opportunity which provides a long-term income stream. We are also contacted by professionals who are looking for a way to generate a passive income but don’t have quite enough time to research the market and manage their property themselves. This type of client generally has a good knowledge of the market and is looking for a trusted agent to provide them with investment opportunities. Experience Invest also has a large overseas client base. Overseas investors typically want to diversify their investment portfolio, move money to a secure country, generate passive income or are looking for opportunities with capital growth prospects. Our dedicated property consultants are able to provide information to suit the needs of our investors. This is why our team is always keen to touch base with new clients to establish their requirements and what they hope to achieve through their property investment. Are there any common misunderstandings about investment that new clients bring, which you have to dispel? Looking for the cheapest property with the highest-possible yield and longest-assured return may seem easy, but for many novice investors it can
lead to impulsive and bad decisions. A cheap property is cheap for a reason. Other factors, such as the location, the rental demand, the rental amount and the potential for capital growth also need to be considered. The property must tick all the boxes based on the investors’ criteria, so it is important that they understand exactly what it is they are looking to achieve from their investment. There is also no such thing as a quick fix and investors need to be prepared to consider a medium-to long-term strategy when investing in property. Another misconception we face is that buying locally is better. Many people think that the place they live in is the best place to invest because they know the area. If you are looking for a more hands-on investment then this may be the case; however, it is sometimes wise to use a property specialist. Clients who enquire about a property through Experience Invest will receive a tailor-made brochure, which will include a financial breakdown, a location overview, market research and more. Research has been conducted on the behalf of the investor so they can learn about other markets which they may have previously ruled out. The properties we offer often perform better in an investment portfolio than the house next door. What makes new build a great option for investors over other types of property? Generally, new build properties come with a warranty that covers any defects and damages during the first seven to ten years. This warranty could save investors a lot of money as opposed to an old property. Some new build developments also offer a discount off the price during the build stage, so there is the benefit of capital gain over construction, and a better rental yield in future. They usually also offer a full turnkey management and letting option for investors. They also can be convenient for investors looking for a split payment plan over construction.
that have a strong demand from their respective markets. Our current residential opportunities boast town or city centre locations and our student developments are located just a short walk from main university campuses. All of our developments provide investors with a rental assurance, which is fixed for a pre-determined amount of time. One Wolstenholme Square is our latest residential opportunity in Liverpool’s city centre. Apartments within this development will generate 8% net per annum and will be assured for the first three years of the investment. Our latest student development, London Spring Place is located in the heart of Luton and is only a few minutes’ walk from the University of Bedfordshire. En suite and selfcontained studios within this development will provide investors a three-year assured income of 8% net per annum. Experience Invest has a selection of opportunities which have been designed to provide a low entry-level way for investors to expand their property portfolio. Each opportunity is fully managed and will generate a passive rental income.
What does new student accommodation offer investors? UK student accommodation is a progressive asset class which has gone from strength to strength. In 2015, there was around £5.7bn of investment in the sector – this is more than double what we have seen in previous years. Year after year we have seen the amount of money pumped into the sector rise, which is a clear indication of the increasing popularity of the sector. Most purpose-built opportunities are fully managed. This attracts people who are looking for an armchair or ‘hands-off’ investment. Again, this type of new build property comes with a warranty and, as students are required to pay a deposit, any damages can be deducted before their money is returned to them via the relevant deposit protection scheme. All student property investments available through Experience Invest have been created to attract a wide pool of tenants. Most developments have a selection of onsite facilities such as a gym, games room, meeting and cinema rooms, which are free for students to use.
What developments are you currently offering to investors?
Are there any areas bubbling under to become an investment hotspot?
We have a selection of exclusive residential buy-to-let apartments and purpose-build student rooms. Our team takes great pride in only sourcing opportunities in areas
Yes. Our opportunities in the student property market receive the most amount of interest from investors. Many people wish to find out more about the asset class as a whole.
In recent years we have also witnessed a shift in investor attention towards the north of England. Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds have all emerged as key areas for investment. What’s in your pipeline for later on this year? Without giving away all of our secrets, we have some very exciting opportunities coming up in 2016. We have just launched phase two of our only student development in the south of England. Phase One of London Spring Place, which is in Luton, was one of our most popular options for investors last year. We are incredibly excited to bring phase two to the market and offer our investors some of the highest returns on the market. The Experience Invest team is also gearing up to launch some incredible developments across the country. Despite the rise in stamp duty taxes, which will come into play very soon, the whole team is incredibly confident about our upcoming property investments, which will deliver high and assured rental returns.
A life changing move It is now a year since Steve and June Bradley moved into their new home in Durrants Village in Faygate, near Horsham – exclusively for the over 55s* and one of the latest being built by award-winning retirement lifestyle specialist Renaissance Villages.
H
aving witnessed parents leaving it too late to cope well with downsizing in their advancing years, Steve and June were keen to make their own move in good time, while they were still well able to manage the process themselves and deal with the inevitable accompanying upheaval. “We had never been to Horsham and found we really liked what we saw, plus we loved the show home. We investigated and found a great church nearby too – which is very important to us – and so, with all those things in place, we put down a deposit very quickly!”
EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY The Bradleys chose a two/three bedroom home at Durrants Village and were very pleased with the size of not only the bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, but also the living areas. “Most of the houses we had seen with a similar number of rooms were small starter homes and, whilst we wanted to downsize, we definitely did not want to downgrade. The rooms are not only a good size but are all exquisitely fitted. The finish is of a very high standard, which is important to us.” Steve is still working parttime as a business consultant and says his new lifestyle lends itself well to those who still have a job. He says, “The fact that we no longer have to do the gardening and general maintenance is such a plus point. Now we can enjoy our leisure days knowing that
We simply love life at Durrants Village. We feel as though we are on holiday all the time!
mornings, wine tastings and parties – ideal for those living on their own, as well as couples, looking for company and friendship.
everything is taken care of. We simply love it. We feel as though we are on holiday all the time!” Durrants Village is a gated development and as the couple plan to go away for extended periods of time, knowing that they can simply ‘lock up and leave’ is something that greatly appealed to them when they first considered such a move. STUNNING CLUBHOUSE The recently opened clubhouse is a focus of social activities with fitness centre, pool, library, medical centre, games room, meeting room, bar and restaurant. A wide range of clubs and societies will be organised by the residents themselves such as art, table tennis, dancing, bridge, coffee
For more information:
01293 851 935
WWW.DURRANTSVILLAGE.CO.UK *Subject to conditions. Prices correct at time of going to press.
Steve and June Bradley: Whilst we wanted to downsize, we definitely did not want to downgrade.
PERFECTLY LOCATED Horsham, with its beautiful surroundings, historic buildings and modern facilities has also been a pleasant discovery for the couple – In a recent survey Horsham was voted the second happiest town in the UK. Steve and June have made new friends too – not only at
Durrants Village but also through their church, which has given them a new social life and one which is close by. “We would highly recommend Durrants Village for anybody who is looking to downsize and enjoy a good lifestyle. Taking that first step is often the most difficult and we would strongly advise not putting it off for years and years. We have seen too many people who have left it too late and then it becomes stressful and overwhelming. We are so glad we moved when we did.” The development enjoys an idyllic setting in 30 acres of parkland with beautifully maintained grounds and Faygate’s semi-rural location is ideal for those wishing to take walks in the nearby countryside, yet only a short drive away from all the facilities in the nearby pretty market town of Horsham. • www.durrantsvillage.co.uk
NEW SHOW HOMES OPEN SOON. PRICES STARTING FROM £249,950 PART EXCHANGE SCHEMES
COUNTRYSIDE LOCATION
PET FRIENDLY
Voted Best Holiday Accommodation Provider for Customer Service at the 2015 British Travel Awards.
5|
2|
4
Northam - North Devon
£649,950
• Stunning Detached Home
• Renovated Throughout
• Large South Facing Garden • Garage and Parking • State of the Art Media Room • Highly Sought After Location • Recently Double Glazed
• Early Viewing Advised
For full details, or to view more of our portfolio, visit our website
morrisandbott.co.uk 01237 459 998 | Grenville Wharf, 6a The Quay, Bideford EX39 2HW
What House - bazeley.indd 1
02/02/2016 14:22:30
18 london
For the latest on the property market
London new homes roundup – our pick of current new builds in the capital
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i th headlines reporting a slowdown in the London property market, it may surprise some to see the capital leading the way in the latest figures from the Land Registry, reporting sold prices on transactions up to December 2015. The Land Registry data shows London prices rising 2.1% in a month and 12.4% year-on-year, some way clear of the next region, the East of England, at 10.6% for the year and almost double the national average for England and Wales at 6.4%. The report continues with data on property sales transactions, which were lower at every month in 2015 compared to the year previous, with the exception of July. Richard Sexton, director of chartered surveyor e.surv, reacted to the new figures: “It’s a vicious circle
– the lack of listings is dissuading many homeowners from moving, so instead some families may be choosing to renovate and extend properties to suit their changing needs. This further diminishes the choice on offer. “A shortage of homes for sale is particularly difficult for those looking to get onto the ladder for the first time, as the stock of affordable homes shrinks. Incentives to encourage last-time buyers to downsize and free-up family homes, to create more movement in property chains and allow families the options they need may help – for example, reducing stamp duty fees for those choosing to downsize – would be one way to encourage this.” London is, however, seeing a great deal of housebuilding activity and here are some of our favourite new homes now for sale or coming soon to market:
Hogarth Views in Chiswick (Haus Properties) This boutique development of just 19 apartments overlooks local landmark Hogarth House and is located only a short walk to Chiswick High Road. The studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments have been designed by Geoff Beardsley & Partners Architects for Prime City Developments, converting a building dated from 1879, and the development officially launches on 6 February. The properties range in size from 470 sq ft to 1,216 sq ft, with an open-plan kitchen and living area, Rako mood-lighting pads in all rooms, Control4 integrated home system controlling the heating, curtains, lights, and sound system from a smartphone or tablet device, such as the complimentary iPad provided with each apartment. There is also a top-line security system,
Carlton Gate in Putney (Henley Homes)
with cutting-edge facial recognition cameras, and every home comes with off-street parking. Jamie Lester, head of Haus Properties, says: “Hogarth Views brings with it a unique opportunity to live in a development that beautifully blends the personality of the original building with the same range of modern finishes that you would expect to find in the most luxurious new build apartments. As well as its impeccable design, the views are one of a kind, with Hogarth House on one side and Chiswick House and Gardens on the other. There really is nothing else like this in this part of London.” Price: From £450,000 Find out more at hellochiswick@ hausproperties.co.uk; 020 8742 7577
The Avenue in Queen’s Park (Regal Homes) Regal Homes has received planning permission for this development of 74 new build residential units at 3-7 The Avenue, Queens Park, in the London Borough of Brent. The scheme will deliver 33 one-bedroom apartments, 23 two-bedroom apartments and 18 three-bedroom apartments, six of which will be allocated to Shared Ownership. Basement parking on the site will provide 57 parking spaces reserved for the exclusive use of residents. Residents will be in walking distance of Brondesbury Park and Brondesbury rail stations and Queen’s Park underground station, in addition to a wide range of local
A new show home has been unveiled at this collection of 24 two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom penthouses in Putney Hill. Ready to move into, these new homes are set behind an art deco-style façade. Katy Mazen, sales and marketing manager for Henley Homes, say: “With the stamp duty surcharge on buy-to-let and second homes due to come in in April, we are seeing considerable interest in the properties at Carlton Gate. The apartments and penthouses are ready for occupation, meaning completion is absolutely achievable before this crucial deadline.” House-hunters can expect an open-plan kitchen/living/dining
amenities. Work on The Avenue will commence in Q3 2016, when the new homes will be officially launched, with the first completions in 2018. Paul Eden, joint CEO of Regal Homes, says: “The Avenue is a very welcome addition to our property portfolio and we look forward to delivering yet another high-quality scheme for London. As an expert London developer, The Avenue will benefit from our expert knowledge of developing prime sites in the capital.” Price: £TBA
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Florian House in New Southgate (Fruition Properties) Launched on 30 January, Florian House is a gated scheme offering a range of properties within the London Help to Buy price limit, with the apartments due for completion in spring 2016. There are seven one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and two four-bedroom houses, with a specification which includes contemporary kitchens with integrated Bosch appliances, underfloor heating, recessed ceiling speakers and LED feature lighting. The development features landscaped gardens and secure parking, while a number of the apartments have private terraces and balconies. Mani Khiroya, managing director of Fruition Properties, says: “High specification new build homes are rare in this area and as a result, we expect interest to be high among potential purchasers. Our previous development in N11, The Observatory, saw an average 16% increase in unit value over the course of 18 months, meaning that Florian House is likely to be a prudent investment for the future.” Price: From £350,000 Find out more at 020 8222 7200 (KFH)
Harrow
Brent
Hillingdon
Ealing
Find out more at 020 7328 7171
space, bespoke kitchens, fully integrated Miele and AEG appliances, glass splashbacks, carpeted bedrooms and contemporary-styled bathrooms and each apartment comes with a private terrace or balcony, as well as the option of audio visual packages, mood lighting and automated blinds. The development is just a short walk from both East Putney station (District Line) and Putney station (National Rail).
Price: From £765,000 Find out more about Carlton Gate from Henley Homes [http://www.whathouse. com/housebuilders/henley-homes/]
Hounslow Richmond upon Thames
Kingsto upon Thames
The W Collection in Walthamstow (Network Living)
The City Mills in Haggerston (L&Q) Phase three of this popular scheme in fashionable Haggerston has just been launched, with a range of one- and two-bedroom apartments available through the Shared Ownership scheme. Located on Laburnum Street, the 23 new apartments at The Great Mill and Canal Mill buildings will give the young professionals aspiring to live in this creative hub an opportunity to get onto the ladder with a Shared Ownership arrangement that allows them to buy as little as 25% of the home initially, with the balance paid for with a subsidised rent. Offering Symphony kitchens with dark-ash worktops and ceramic Conran design tiles as well as
Electrolux integrated appliances, every apartment boasts a good specification as well as its own private balcony or terrace. Parking will be available to purchase with selected plots. Cathy Lloyd, sales and marketing director at L&Q, remarks “As the largest new build development in the area, The City Mills is helping hundreds of Londoners onto the property through Shared Ownership. It’s a fantastic development right at the heart of a London’s ‘hipster triangle’ so we’re expecting it to appeal particularly to young professionals and starting families.” Price: From £108,750 (25% share) Find out more at www.lqpricedin.co.uk
The W Collection is a range of houses set across six addresses in Walthamstow, available to purchase through Shared Ownership. The 14 homes includes seven two-bedroom houses and seven three-bedroom houses: Knebworth House (five three-bedroom houses on Cecil Road); Grosvenor Park Road (three two-bedroom houses); Lancaster Road (one two-bedroom house); Farnan Avenue (two three-bedroom houses); Jewel Road (one twobedroom house); and York Road (two two-bedroom houses). These homes optimise the available light and space and feature a modern specification including high-gloss fitted kitchens and tiled flooring across the kitchen and living area. Walthamstow boasts an extensive range of outstanding schools and exceptional transport links from Walthamstow Central station, with the West End just 20 minutes away. Price: From £152,250 (35% share) Find out more at 020 8520 6731 (spicerhaart)
Enfield
Barnet Haringey
Isl
Redbridge
Waltham Forest
Havering
Hackney
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Tower Hamlets
Newham
Barking & Dagenham
Following a successful extra onsite planning application, the developer has added four new apartments to Riverdale house, a group of 550 sq ft one-bedroom residences that sit within the main Riverdale House block; with three being west-facing and one facing east. David Galman, sales director for Galliard Homes, commented: “Riverdale House has been extremely popular thanks to its individual architecture, roof garden and external manicured green space with pond, as well as its value and easy access to the centre of London. The development
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Merton
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Croydon
has been very popular with first-time buyers, young couples and investors; we expect the new offering at Riverdale House to be equally so.” Riverdale House was designed in 1981 by Sir Frank Gibberd (19081984), one of Britain’s foremost modernist architects. Stretching up to seven floors, the impressive building was originally offices, but has been skillfully refurbished into modern residences. Price: From £340,000 Find out more on www.galliardhomes. com; 020 7620 1500
Cane Hill Park in Coulsdon (David Wilson Homes) Just launched is this new development of three-, four- and five-bedroom homes on the site of the former Cane Hill psychiatric hospital – which incidentally featured on the US cover of the late David Bowie’s The Man Who Sold The World album. A number of these executive homes have already been reserved off-plan, underlining local demand for these high-quality, energyefficient new properties. A threebedroom ‘Keats’ show house now gives house-hunters the chance to check out the standard of these new homes for themselves, as well
as absorb some interiors inspiration from the professionally decorated property. Pam Reardon, sales and marketing director at David Wilson Homes, says: “It seems the combination of this fantastic location, the design of our homes and the overall concept of the development is proving a real draw for homebuyers.” Nearby Coulsdon South railway station offers services into London Victoria in just 26 minutes. Price: From £619,995 Find out more on www.dwh.co.uk
Corio in Bermondsey (Linden Homes)
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Riverdale House in Lewisham (Galliard Homes)
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Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes
Launched in late January, this scheme, just a stroll from Zone 1’s Borough and Zone 2’s Bermondsey tube stations, offering homebuyers and investors in south-east London the chance to secure an apartment off-plan. ‘Early bird’ property watchers have a choice from a collection of 167 one-, twoand three-bedroom properties. From here, residents will be able to travel to the City in 21 minutes by tube (17-minute walk to Borough station and four-minute train to Bank), 13 minutes by bike and 33 minutes on foot. Dylan May, land, sales and marketing director at Linden Homes South East, says: “Although within
striking distance of the heart of London, Corio enjoys the special vibe of Bermondsey – which is a soughtafter pocket-community with its own identity, like an urban village. The apartments offer the opportunity to unlock a fantastic lifestyle at the centre of the capital – for work, play and easy travelling. And at the end of the day residents have a high quality new home to return to.” The converted tannery is entered via a double-height atrium and have a concierge and landscaped courtyard garden. Price: From £450,000 Find out more at www.lindenhomes.co.uk; 020 3811 6272
Coming Soon: Taplow Riverside REGISTER YOUR INTEREST TODAY The highly anticipated first release of three, four and five bedroom luxury houses will soon be launching at Taplow Riverside. These beautiful homes are set amid landscaped parkland between the Thames and Jubilee rivers, with a number of moorings available*. Please contact us to register your interest and to find out more about this extraordinary opportunity for luxurious riverside living.
CALL: 01753 336552 | EMAIL: SALES.OXFORD@BERKELEYHOMES.CO.UK VISIT: WWW.TAPLOWRIVERSIDE.CO.UK
Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies
* Subject to availabilty. Computer generated image is indicative only and subject to change. Showhome photography is indicative only of a previous Berkeley showhome. Lifestyle photography is indicative only.
KnightFrank.co.uk
Wentworth, Surrey
Guide price: ÂŁ3,500,000
Beautifully presented, recently refurbished detached character home in a south facing half acre plot, situated on the Wentworth Estate. 5 bedroom suites, fabulous entrance hall, 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room with family area, snug area, utility, cloakroom, summer house, garaging, delightful private south facing gardens. KnightFrank.co.uk Office: 01344 840020 virginiawater@knightfrank.com
KnightFrank.co.uk
Wentworth, Surrey
Guide price: ÂŁ3,650,000
Stunning brand new house with the accommodation arranged over three levels extending to just under 6,500 sq ft. Spacious reception hall, 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast area, utility, 2 cloakrooms, 5 bedroom suites, leisure/bedroom 6, au-pair suite, south facing landscaped gardens. In all about 0.5 acres. EPC rating B. KnightFrank.co.uk Office: 01344 840020 virginiawater@knightfrank.com
For the latest on the property market
@What_House
mortgages 23
Child maintenance issues lead to mortgage woes for divorced parents Divorce brings its own financial problems, and one of the main issues is the difficulty single people can have in finding a lender that will agree a mortgage for them, says Nick Parkhouse
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a rly January is historically a time where there is a huge increase in the number of married couples filing for divorce. Many lenders don’t take child maintenance payments into account as income, meaning it can be tough for single parents to get the home loan that they need. For many people, child maintenance is one of their vital sources of income. However, many lenders won’t take this money into account when deciding how big a mortgage they will agree. For example, the Daily Telegraph reports that the Coventry Building Society will not take maintenance income into account even when it is backed up by a court order. Santander and Accord, part of Yorkshire Building Society, will only count 50% of the maintenance payments towards total income. Other lenders are more generous, with Halifax, Barclays
and Metro Bank taking 100% of confirmed maintenance payments into account. Now, a leading mutual has announced that it will offer “more favourable” affordability checks for newly single people who are in receipt of child maintenance payments. Ipswich Building Society has announced that it will take 100% of child maintenance payments into account under its ‘Divorce Mortgage Programme’ as long as they are supported by a court order or by the Child Support Agency (CSA) and have more than five years to run. Mortgage expert David Hollingworth says that said single parents can run into problems if the mortgage term is longer than the scheduled maintenance payments. He says: “These payments are to help look after children, so they usually run until a child turns 18. If the payments are due to stop before the mortgage ends, lenders could ask
for evidence of additional income to support the loan.” If you are paying child maintenance then you might also find it hard to get the mortgage that you need. Most lenders will deduct the cost of the maintenance payments from your annual income when assessing affordability, meaning the amount you can borrow may be less than you think.
KEEPING UP REPAYMENTS ON A JOINT MORTGAGE IS VITAL TO YOUR CREDIT RATING If you are separating and you have a joint mortgage it is vitally important for your credit rating that you ensure that the mortgage payments are being made even if you are not living at the property.
Keith Osborne, editor of Whathouse. com, says: “If your mortgage is in joint names then both parties are responsible for the repayments irrespective of who is living in the house. A missed payment will have an impact on both of your credit ratings. Keeping up the repayments is crucial otherwise you could find it impossible to get a mortgage when you want to buy a property in your own name.”
Mortgage deals get cheaper after Bank of England postpones rate rise Homeowners looking for a mortgage in 2016 could benefit from the decision by the Bank of England to postpone a rise in interest rates.
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fi nancial analyst has revealed that the cost of mortgage deals in the UK has continued to fall, with a leading newspaper also reporting that some major lenders have cut the cost of their best products in recent weeks. Last year, many experts predicted that the Bank of England (BoE) would raise interest rates this year from their current record low of 0.5%. Many mortgage holders had
prepared themselves for an increase in payments but recent comments from the BoE suggest that the earliest rate rise may now not be seen until mid-2017. With rates expecting to remain at their record low for an eighth year, a leading financial analyst has reported that the cost of borrowing in the UK continues to fall. Moneyfacts say that the average two-year fixed-rate deal at 75% loanto-value (LTV) has fallen by 0.69% in just one year, while the average
five-year fixed deal at 75% LTV has dropped from 3.25% to 2.94% over the same period. Charlotte Nelson, finance expert at Moneyfacts, says: “Rumours flourished throughout the latter part of 2015 regarding an imminent rate rise, but now that governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney has said that it isn’t quite the right time to raise base rate, many borrowers can breathe a sigh of relief – at least for the time being. “However, it is still a question
of when the Bank of England will raise interest rates rather than if, so borrowers need to take advantage of current low mortgage rates before they disappear.” The statistics come after a number of UK lenders cut the cost of their mortgage deals in response to the Bank of England’s comments. This Is Money reports that the Yorkshire Building Society has cut the rates on its two- and fiveyear fixed rates by up to 0.5% while the Co-operative Bank and
Principality Building Society have cut their rates on some deals by up to 0.2%. Keith Osborne, editor of Whathouse. com, says: “With the Bank of England suggesting that interest rate hikes may now be over a year away, a number of high profile lenders have once again cut the cost of borrowing. I expect other lenders to follow suit and so this spring could be an ideal time for anyone looking to lock into a cheap fixed-rate deal.”
VERY EXCITING
Redrow homes have undeniable kerb appeal with distinctive, detailed architectural touches that set them apart from the competition. Very Inviting, Very Inspiring, Very Redrow.
NEW SHOWHOMES
COMING SOON TO
Hinckley and Tamworth We are pleased to announce that we will be opening the doors to our beautiful showhomes at Park View, Hinckley and Pennine Grange, Tamworth in July. Come along to Park View, Hinckley, today where the Marketing Suite is now open and we have a selection of 3 and 4 bedroom homes available from £224,995
Park View
Pennine Grange
Coventry Road, Hinckley LE10 0NU Visit: redrow.co.uk/parkview Call: 01455 698336
Pennine Way, Tamworth B77 4JF Visit: redrow.co.uk/pennine Call: 01827 902025
Image typical of Redrow homes. Price correct at time of going to press.
Make your move in 2016 2, 3 and 4 bedroom contemporary homes built to a high specification near Plymouth, South Devon
Current prices from
£229,995* *as of 02.11.15
View from ‘The Clipper’ properties
The Boatyard, The Old Wharf Oreston, Plymouth PL9 7NP
01752 408091
theboatyard@cavannahomes.co.uk Open Thursday to Monday, 10am–5pm
LET US HELP YOU TO SELL
Move Assist available. Please ask for details.
www.cavannahomes.co.uk
Available on this site
GR L E O Jus t o CAT AT ff t IO he N A3
A new development of 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes in Dartington Prices from £219,000* at time of print *as of 02.11.15
The Westcombe Show Home
Marketing Suite open Thursday to Monday 10am-5pm
origins@cavannahomes.co.uk | 01803 868911
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Sat Nav TQ9 6JY
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Site and sound
Housebuilder Crest Nicholson welcomes Ashford College students to the construction of its Finberry development
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w ard-winning national housebuilder Crest Nicholson hosted a team of students from Ashford College at its at its Green Oaks development in Finberry recently, to give the Level One BTEC plumbing students an insight into operations on a large-scale housing development. Site managers Neil Johnson and Steve Saunders gave the guests a detailed tour of the building site, just south of Ashford, where the new village of Finberry is taking shape. Build manager Irwyn Evans also attended the visit and provided an
in-depth Q&A session with the students after the tour. The 10 young guests were also shown around a number of properties onsite in various stages of the construction process, helping them to understand the technical plumbing process. One of the visitors, Devran Yalcin, said: “The visit to Finberry has been a good opportunity to experience the construction process on large-scale developments first-hand. It’s been great to see the practical application of our course content. I plan to apply for an apprenticeship here once I’ve completed my Level 2 diploma.”
Annette Cole, sales and marketing director at Crest Nicholson’s Eastern division, was delighted to welcome this team of apprentices to the development: “The visit was a fantastic opportunity for them to see first-hand the vital role plumbing plays in a large-scale residential project such as Finberry. “At Crest Nicholson, we recognise the importance of supporting the education of young industry professionals, and providing handson experience to further their development.” Chris Tyler, work placement coordinator for Ashford College, added: “This was a great opportunity for our students to gain first-hand experience, meet employers face-to-face, and to find out about career opportunities and how to access them.” Homes are still available at Green Oaks, which offers a range of two-, three- and four-bedroom properties priced from £184,000. Help to Buy is available at this site. Find out more at www.crestnicholson.com
WhatHouse? nominated in First Time Buyer Readers Awards 2016 WhatHouse? newspaper has been nominated in the Best Property Supplement category at the First Time Buyer Readers Awards 2016. Voting is carried out by you, the reader, so if you’d like to offer your support for WhatHouse? please do take a minute to vote at www.ftbawards.com/vote-now-2016.html We’d really appreciate your vote if you think we deserve it. Remember you can also get daily news and articles on our website, www.whathouse.com, where you can also sign up for our newsletter.
ELEGANCE & ARTISTRY CR AF TED RESIDENCES IN HISTORIC SMITHFIELD, EC1 PRICES FROM £815,000* 020 7726 8995 | BARTSSQUARE.COM
*Price correct at time of going to press. Computer generated image of Barts Square.
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HOW SMALL CHANGE COULD MAKE YOU BIG RETURNS There aren’t many investment opportunities with a 2,000 year old heritage. But this is a coin with the seal of approval from the first Emperor of Rome. It is a gold ‘Aureus’ struck in 15-13 BC, featuring both Augustus, the Emperor and a butting bull. This Augustan Aureus is priced at £32,000. In 2013 an Aureus from 15-13 BC was auctioned for US $425,500, 227% up on its $130,000 estimate. Another, with a unique heifer design, sold for £300,000 in 2014. Uncorrelated with other asset classes, rare coins and stamps provide several thousand Stanley Gibbons Investment clients with strong portfolio diversification and the potential for capital growth.
To find out more call 0845 026 7170 or visit sginvest.co.uk/whathouse The value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back what you put in. Stamps and certain other collectibles are not designated investments for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Regulated Activities) Order 2001 and as such are not subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or otherwise. Stanley Gibbons Investment does not provide valuations.
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Resale home of the month with Hamptons International
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h is imposing doublefronted late Victorian residence in Dunmow Hill, Fleet, is believed to date back to 1890 and is set behind electric gates in one of he town’s most sought-after roads. A canopied entrance with ornate tiled floor leads directly to an original
front door with stained glass panels. The open-plan kitchen/dining room and has a solid fuel-burning stove and large bay window to the front. The kitchen has bespoke units, a Belfast sink and a dual-fuel Aga. To the rear, a hallway with a glazed ceiling leads to the well-proportioned dual-aspect family room. The drawing
room is also situated at the rear of the property featuring attractive herringbone wooden flooring, an open fireplace, ornate ceiling roses and glazed doors to the rear terrace. The first floor comprises four double bedrooms with an en suite to the master bedroom. A large roof terrace overlooking the rear garden is accessed from bedroom
four. On the second floor there is another family bathroom, two further bedrooms and a walk-in loft room. The rear garden is enclosed with trees and shrubs, revealing a 28ft swimming pool and summerhouse screened with mature hedging. The property is ideal for commuting, being a short walk to Fleet’s mainline
It must be love F The course of true love never did run smooth, said the Bard, and that’s as true for property as it is for people
inding the ideal new home isn’t always easy, and in the case of Hampshire homebuyer Polly Hughes it took 12 months and no fewer than 28 viewings before finding her perfect home at Froyle Park. “I am pretty difficult to please,” says Polly about her marathon effort to find somewhere that would persuade her to say goodbye to her beloved old house in the Hampshire village of Crondall. She was looking to downsize from the large property with a big garden to somewhere suitable, with plenty of character, lots of space and with good amenities on hand. The three-bedroom property constructed at Froyle Park by Linden Homes, in the grounds of the refurbished Burnham House, met all those requirements, drawing from traditional local house designs to match the character of the area. However, her decision to buy it came a little unexpectedly to Polly. “I never dreamed I would buy a new build property; I have always lived in older properties,” she says. “But this new one at Froyle Park blew my mind. I saw it before it was finished, but I have quite an imagination and I could see what the potential was and what I could do with it. “It’s beautifully set out for me. It’s about 1,500 sq ft and it has a feeling of much more space than that. It’s light and airy – it’s just a lovely, lovely feel. I felt like that even when the concrete was wet.” Polly, who shares her ‘Franklin’ house with her Tonkinese cat Louis, loves the area’s community spirit and
station with a journey time to London Waterloo in less than an hour. Fleet town centre is approximately half a mile and offers a good range of national and independent retailers. Good schools include Calthorpe Park, Yateley Manor, St Nicholas’ and Farnborough Hill. Find out more at www.hamptons.co.uk; 01252 360590
excellent array of shops and facilities. “I know the area very well,” she says, “so I just didn’t want to leave. There’s everything here: Upper Froyle is slap bang in the middle of two very nice market towns – Farnham on one side and Alton on the other.” Polly still volunteers for a neighbour support group in the area and enjoys a great social life with her friends. Shortly after moving in, she went on holiday, which led to one major glitch: on the way back, she “went into autopilot” and drove from the airport straight to her old house instead of her new one! But she was delighted to arrive back at Froyle Park eventually. “It was so nice coming to somewhere new. The house is of the highest specification and has a wonderful finish; I can’t fault it. The layout is a big bonus – whoever designed this property got it perfect for me and, really, any family could live here.” Susan Whiting, marketing manager at Linden Homes South, said: “It’s great to hear that Polly is enjoying her new home at Froyle Park. The development has so much to offer and we hope she will be very happy here for many years to come.” Froyle Park is within easy reach of the A31 and Alton railway station, from where direct services reach London Waterloo in around 70 minutes. Prices range from £435,000 for a threebedroom semi-detached house, to £1.65m for a five-bedroom detached house. Visit the show home (pictured) daily, from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Find out more at www.lindenhomes.co.uk; 01420 384394
We’re open for business, whatever the climate.
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S S N AL ALN SO N! ECSiO N! ECi EA O ’S SEpA O ’S Sp F S W Fr S W r O O GOE O GE D E N ANDA E N ANA EN L MEN L M SA ur SA Our O r FO LL CA
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A brand new development of luxury holiday homes in the Surrey Hills from just £150,000 A brand new development of luxury holiday Located just over hour from London and Gatwick,from luxurious just lodges, 26-acres of landscaped homes inanthe Surrey Hills £150,000 Edgeley Country Park is your idyllic destination for endless holidays and weekend escapes.
woodland and first class onsite leisure facilities make for a perfectly accessible rural escape.
Edgeley Country Park is your idyllic destination for endless holidays and weekend escapes. Our latest development of 9 luxuriously appointed holiday lodges has been released for sale. Located just over an hour from London and Gatwick, luxurious lodges, 26-acres of landscaped With sensational interior design schemes and the benefit of Haulfryn’s 5-star sublet scheme, woodland and first class onsite leisure facilities make for a perfectly accessible rural escape. not only will you enjoy endless holidays but earn income to offset your running costs. Our latest development of 9 luxuriously appointed holiday lodges has been released for sale. With sensational interior design schemes and the benefit of Haulfryn’s 5-star sublet scheme, For more information not only will you enjoy endless holidays but earn income to offset your running costs. call 01483 315149
or visit www.edgeley-country.co.uk For more information
call 01483 315149
Edgeley Country Park, Farley Green, Albury, Guildford, Surrey GU5 9DW
or visit www.edgeley-country.co.uk Edgeley Country Park, Farley Green, Albury, Guildford, Surrey GU5 9DW
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✓ Only minutes from Guildford & just over an hour from London ✓ Free Wi-Fi throughout the park ✓ sited and ready ✓ Fully Only furnished, minutes from Guildford & to enjoy immediately just over an hour from London ✓ in throughout a safe & ✓ Located Free Wi-Fi the park secure environment ✓ Fully furnished, sited and ready ✓ Full access to to enjoy immediately pool, sauna ✓ & Located a safe & fitnessinroom secure environment ✓ Parking available ✓ Full access to pool, sauna & fitness room ✓ Parking available
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CROYDON 020 8681 0700
For the latest on the property market
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Monkey business A brand new six-bedroom home in Virginia Water could be the perfect buy at the start of the Chinese New Year
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h e start of the Year of the Monkey on 8 February comes at a tumultuous time for the Chinese owners of the prestigious Wentworth golf club in Surrey, at the centre of one of the most desirable private residential estates in the country. Very few of the luxury homes at Wentworth were owned by Chinese before Reignwood (owners of drinks company Red Bull) purchase the
Club in 2014 but the purchase is bound to influence wealthy buyers from China who can afford the new club fees proposed by Reignwood – as much as £100,000 to join. A new Chinese school proposed for the area could also persuade south-east Asian homebuyers to choose Virginia Water as their UK base. James Wyatt, of local estate agency Barton Wyatt, says: “It’s been interesting to see who has been
enticed to look at homes in the area off the back of the Chinese company buying The Wentworth Club. So far they are not buyers but observers and it is apparent from the viewings that the Chinese are not looking to buy the showiest homes on Wentworth. Chinese interest seems to be focused on new build properties with compact beauty. “Houses that have proven popular are packed with high tech gadgets
and gizmos and those with the correct feng shui. Chinese investors have also been keen on hearing about our Private Office - our concierge service, which allows owners complete peace of mind.” A brand new property which could capture the interest of a Chinese buyer is the elegant Merells, which sits on a modest half-acre plot and comes with six bedroom-and-bathroom suites. The home also has a second
floor cinema room and gymnasium, a drawing room, dining room, study, a very generous kitchen/breakfast/family room, a double garage and landscaped gardens. This new build home, priced at £3.65m, has been luxuriously equipped by award-winning interior design specialists AJI.
Find out more at www.bartonwyatt.co.uk; 01344 843000
Why buy in... Guildford? ABOUT GUILDFORD Guildford is the county town of Surrey. Its castle dates back to 1066 and is a dominant feature of the town with a 360-degree panoramic view of Guildford and the beautiful surrounding countryside. The cathedral is a resource for the local and wider community and its status is about to become even more significant following the submitting of proposals to build 134 homes its slopes. A number of affordable properties will also become available providing first-time buyers with a great opportunity to now consider Guildford whereas they may not have before.
SCHOOLS
This month we find out why Guildford is the place to be from Guy Hodge, a local director at Townends. Hodge has an expert local knowledge of the area having worked in Surrey for over 30 years and is a fellow of the National Association of Estate Agents
There are some great state and independent schools in Guildford, particularly the Royal Grammar School which lies towards the top of the high street, George Abbot School and Guildford County School, a specialist music college. For higher education, Guildford boasts the University of Surrey, which attracts thousands of students and their families to the area.
COMMUTER LINKS A main benefit for potential buyers
and tenants includes Guildford’s excellent rail services and superb road infrastructure, particularly the A3. Positioned halfway between London and Portsmouth, buyers are very much attracted to the town for its accessibility and transport links. A direct train into London’s Waterloo takes just over half an hour.
SHOPS AND EMPLOYMENT Guildford’s busy farmers’ market takes place on the high street on the first Tuesday of every month selling a variety of food, crafts and plants. Guildford also has a thriving town centre combining the very best shopping and dining facilities. The Friary Centre and the famous cobbled High Street boast many different retail outlets, restaurants and cafés. In addition to the shops and offices in the town centre, there are several retail, commercial and science business parks as well as a large county hospital and the university, all of which are large employers.
HOUSING STOCK There is a wide variety of property reflecting different periods of building and development across the town. Much of central Guildford
has Victorian houses with a range of period villas and cottages. A phase of building in the 1930s saw the construction of typical threebedroom semis and the development of areas like Onslow Village. In the 1950s an extensive phase of post-war council housing created many family homes in Park Barn. The 1970s and 1980s saw considerable development on the outskirts of Guilford, including Burpham and Merrow with a variety of property styles from two- to five-bedroom houses and apartments. Areas like Queen Elizabeth Park became increasingly established and modern town houses were built.
WHO BUYS? Guildford has a diverse group of homeowners ranging from young professionals, commuters and families who are keen to get good school places for their children. There is also a huge amount of local wealth so we also see many local investment buyers who purchase with cash and own multiple homes and property portfolios.
Find out more at www.townends.co.uk; 01483 300 700
The Townhouse Collection BATTERSEA PARK ROAD, SW11 4NB
The City
The Shard
Green Park
Chelsea Embankment
Battersea Park
FINAL TWO HOMES NOW REMAINING
THE TO WNHO USE C OLLECTI O N ST U N N I N G 4 & 5 BED R O O M TOW N H O U S E S IN BATTERSEA PARK ROAD
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PRICES FROM £1,795,000 TO £1,995,000
The Townhouse Collection is an exclusive selection of elegant 4 and 5 bedroom homes perfectly located moments from Battersea Park with excellent transport links into the city.
CALL: 0207 228 0174 OR FIND OUT MORE ONLINE AT SHANLYHOMES.COM
These impressive townhouses have been built to the highest standard featuring a luxury specification, flexible layouts as well as private gardens, terraces and secure underground parking accessible via a car lift.
Location photography of Battersea and surrounding areas. Prices correct at time of press.
Land & New Homes
HOMEISWHERE THEHEARTIS...
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01252 356000 your property, our business
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Why choose ELM Group? • Higher sales & rental values achieved with our outstanding property management service • We advise & assist with RTM & self-enfranchisement setup for our clients • We offer bespoke leasehold property management to our clients • Advisory head-lease setup service for developers
• ELM Group are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Homes & Communities Agency • Two months FREE property management fees on a minimum fixed one year contract We are proud to present our partner for sales & lettings in the South East of England www.elmgroup.org.uk enquiries@elmgroup.org.uk
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Residents at St George’s Park retirement village in Ditchling enjoy one of the UK’s most popular recreational sports
E
A bowled plan
joyed by over a third n of a million players in the UK, bowls is up there with swimming and golf in its popularity with people of all ages. It is hard to think of another sport where it is not uncommon to see players in their 70s or 80s compete against opponents in their teens or 20s, and still be able to win. With an onsite bowling green and indoor short mat bowls, St George’s Park in Ditchling, East Sussex, offers its residents the chance to play all year round, whatever the weather Philip Smith, sales and marketing director of St George’s Park, says: “Bowls is one of our countries quintessential sports but many bowling greens are now under threat from developers, meaning that it is becoming harder for active bowlers to play their beloved sport. At St George’s, resident need not worry about where their local bowling green is as they will always have access to the indoors and outdoors bowls areas.” When completed, St George’s Park retirement village will provide 240 apartments for over-60s, set in 250 acres of parkland and landscaped grounds. The final phase now on offer has some of the most impressive homes in the scheme so far, with the
Thinking of selling your home? Do you know how much your home is really worth? Find out with our FREE valuation service. It’s a quick and easy process that you can carry out online or over the phone. Visit www.whathouse.com/value-my-house
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two-bedroom apartments in Purchace Manor occupying the footprint of the site’s original nursing home. Due to open later this year, Rafael Court offers new one-bedroom apartments in a building that also houses the village’s leisure centre and health club, which will boast an indoor heated swimming pool, gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, games room, therapy room, café and hairdressing salon. There is also table tennis, snooker, line dancing and short tennis on offer, ensuring a very active social life! There are even more pastimes to enjoy outdoors, including fishing in the lake, croquet and an allotment club, along with a host of activities organised by the residents association, from and art club to a local history group. The specially designed apartments accommodate the latest standards for access and mobility and, for peace of mind, all apartments will be fitted with integral monitored security, video entry and fire alarm systems. The latest phase of properties at St Georges Park start from £460,000 for a two-bedroom apartment in Purchace Manor and from £310,000 for a onebedroom apartment in Rafael Court. Find out more at www.stgeorgespark. co.uk; 01444 259732
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PADSTOW CORNWALL From £237,950
01626 369300
www.poltairhomes.com 10 Year Warranty
Prices correct at time of going to press, but subject to review at any time.
PEA BANDING: B
42 interiors
Find a great mortage deal at whathouse.com/mortgages
Some like it frothy
With her choice of the hottest coffee machines, Richenda Oldham proves that the ultimate coffee experience can take place at home and not in a cafe 1 The KitchenAid Artisan Espresso Maker features two independent boilers that will brew, froth and warm cups in order to provide you with the perfect coffee. You can use ground coffee or pods to make the ultimate espresso or creamy cappuccino; £615, qvcuk.com; 2 The Nescafe Dolce Gusto Drop Automatic hot drinks machine is a stunningly designed device that uses touch technology to deliver coffee shop-style drinks via a pod system in as little as 20 seconds; around £149.99, available from www.amazon.co.uk www.argos.co.uk www.very.co.uk; 3 Fancy a hot or cold coffee? The Lavazza A Modo Mio Fantasia has a choice of 36 settings that will make you anything from the creamiest cappuccino to an ice-cold shake. Available in white, red or black, it costs around £179.99, www.lavazzamodomio.co.uk; 4 You can remotely brew coffee from anywhere in your home with the Smarter coffee machine, as long as you are connected to WiFi. Just a few swipes from your smartphone will give you the ability to control every detail from coffee bean settings to an alarm setting; £179.99, www.findmeagift.co.uk; 5 For coffee on demand, the Swan SK32020N Bean to Cup coffee machine will do everything from grinding your coffee beans to brewing you up to 10 cups of coffee in its glass carafe. Digital controls mean you can programme your coffee to be as mild or strong as you wish; around £99.99, www.amazon.co.uk
Sunny side up
Banish winter blues with an injection of sunshine into your home. Richenda Oldham shows how even a little yellow in your home can go a long way to adding happiness and warmth 2
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1 Ochre gold is THE colour for 2016, so what better way to use it in your home than with a smart table lamp. Raj lamp in ochre, £46, www.zurleys.co.uk; 2 A combination of grey and yellow will bring depth and elegance to a room. Serenity grey fabric, £39 per metre, Charlbury double plain, yellow, £61 per metre, www.barkerandbarker.co.uk; 3 A simple yellow blind against a neutral backdrop is all you need to create a glowing ambience. Splash Sunflower roller blind with eyelets, from £50 for a 61cm x 61cm blind, www.thefabricbox. co.uk; 4 Make a striking but slimline standalone statement in yellow with this retro design Wesco Baseboy 20-litre pedal bin; £139.96, www.binopolis.com; 5 A block of rich gold in a neutral room gives the impression of colour without being overpowering. Monte Carlo rug in yellow, from £27.99, www.landofrugs.com
interiors
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Smart solutions for small spaces Richenda Oldham thinks out of the box and presents workable design solutions to maximise the shrinking footprint of the modern home
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t ’s a sad but true fact that the average modern British home is shrinking and, according to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), some of the smallest three-bedroom homes are missing space that is the equivalent of a double bedroom. While it is hoped that minimum sizes for new homes will be reviewed, so that ‘rabbit hutch’ new builds will be “a thing of the past” (according to RIBA president Jane Duncan), in the meantime, if you are the owner of a space-constrained new home, just how can you tackle the lack of internal amenity? Without a doubt, the key to finding successful solutions is to plan, plan, plan. Look at your existing pieces of furniture and be ruthless in choosing what will work and what won’t. It will pay dividends to invest in new multipurpose furniture that will suit your new, restricted spaces. Draw up a scale floorplan and start plotting in scale furniture measurements to see what layouts fit the bill. Don’t restrict to your vision to the footprint of each room. Instead, look upwards and think about overall volume of space. Maximising storage space in a small home is critical and you need to make the most of every square centimetre both vertically and horizontally. Overhead storage, space beneath a bed, corner space, behind
or above doors, space beneath stairs, all can be exploited successfully, either by using bespoke solutions or off-the peg designs from specialist storage retailers. Keep the space flowing and try to avoid breaking up rooms into different areas. Some of the most successful interior designs for small spaces feature open-plan living. Use of neutral background colours and flooring throughout your home, whether it’s an apartment or a family house, will help create a feeling of space, but don’t be afraid to use a bold colour in a small area, such as the kitchen, to create impact and inject personality. Mirrors, too, can really help to bounce light around and boost the feeling of space. When choosing furniture, go for multipurpose designs such as corner sofas with storage within and a foldout bed to boot (www.furniturechoice. co.uk’s Maddox corner sofa). Or coffee tables that can convert to dining tables; keep folding chairs hung on pegs at the side of the room, ready to be used when you are entertaining. Pullout or fold-down work surfaces or desks are excellent when you don’t have enough rooms for a designated study/home office. But above all, the right kind of positive attitude will transform a small space into an attractive vibrant home, which works for you and not against you. Small can be beautiful.
1. At the heart of this 785 sq ft apartment, designed by Neha Sha of Boscolo, is a cleverly designed open-plan kitchen/dining/ living space, which features accessories and fittings that perform dual roles, such as cork side tables that can be used for seating, and a drawer that pulls out as additional worktop space; www.boscolo.co.uk
of a London flat, is packed with spacingsaving storage ideas, providing a workable solution that meets the challenges of the ceiling restrictions perfectly; www.roundhousedesign.com
2. Even if space is tight, you don’t need to sacrifice style for the sake of layout. There are plenty of reduced-depth sanitaryware products, which come in modular designs that retain the drama of stand-alone products. YOU modular furniture in Black Linear: basin £395, toilet unit (including cistern) £649, soft close seat back to wall pan, £410, www.utopiagroup.com 3. This tiny kitchen, tucked beneath the eaves
4. This sleek, chic coffee table is actually a versatile, multi-extending design that grows to become a dining table that can seat 8-10 people and is height adjustable, Multi coffee table, 120cm (L) x 75cm (W) x 25cm (H) (unextended), 220cm long (fully extended), £1,695; www.furl.co.uk 5. A bed that doubles up as an ottoman is just the answer for small bedroom spaces with no room for other furniture. The bed base can be easily raised thanks to a gas lift. Arran Oak ottoman storage bed, £474 for a double; www.time4sleep
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Find a great mortage deal at whathouse.com/mortgages
Euroheat Nestor-Martin Harmony 13 multi-fuel stove, £1,242, www.hetas.co.uk Modern Robeys Rina 4kw wood-burning stove, available with either glass-framed door, £1,897 or steel framed door, £1,749, www.hetas.co.uk
Traditional Bellingham 8kw steel bodied multi-fuel stove, £1,099, www.dimplex.co.uk
The heat is on Wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves have environmental as well as economic benefits. Richenda Oldham explores the reasons for investing in one
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icture this: A freezing cold night, with the rain lashing down outside, and there you are, all cosy and warm (indoors), snuggled up in front of a stove, sipping your cocoa. Sound good doesn’t it? This heartwarming image is no adman’s dream. Stoves – and let’s be clear here, these are the wood-burning or multi-fuel varieties we’re talking about, not gas or electric versions – offer a practical and economically efficient way to heat a room by using a renewable resource: wood. Locally sourced wood is not only one of the cheapest forms of energy, it is also a carbon neutral fuel, as the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere is the same as that absorbed by a tree while it is growing. Investing in a wood-burning or multi-fuel stove that can burn both wood, coal or smokeless fuel, will set
you back between £500 to £2,000, depending on the make and model you choose. You will need to decide what style you want - traditional (cast iron) or contemporary (steel) - and finish/colour. Where are you intending to put your stove? In a fireplace, an open hearth or will it be freestanding? You will also need to consider which room you are going to heat and whether you want the stove to supply domestic hot water or central heating as well. Next on the list is fuel choice. If you are intending to burn only wood, then a dedicated wood-burning stove is best, which burns logs on a flat bed of ash, with air for combustion coming from above. A multi-fuel stove will give you more fuel options, as you can choose to burn either logs, smokeless fuels or peat/turf briquettes. But it is wise to check first whether you live in a smoke controlled area, which means you will need to get a stove approved
by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) if you want to burn wood. If you choose not to buy a Defra-approved stove, then you can burn smokeless fuels, such as anthracite, but not wood. You will also need to check that you are able to comply with building regulations, as there are specifications about how a flue is fitted, as well as the size of the hearth and the distance of the stove from combustibles. All of which could affect your choice of stove, so it’s a good idea to speak to a HETAS-registered installer first and to have them carry out a site survey first. They will recommend any changes that will need to be made to ensure compliance with building regulations For further information about stoves and approved installers, contact HETAS, the official body for solid fuel, wood and biomass heating systems, fuels and services, or visit www.hetas.co.uk; 01684 278170
Sleek, contemporary Lawley wood-burning stove, £1,675 from AGA, www.agaliving.com
Huntingdon 30 wood-burning stove in ivory enamel finish, £1,975, www.stovax.com
46 armchair gardener
The winter and spring flowering camellia provides a beautiful splash of colour when not much else is in bloom
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The evergreen ceanothus, or Californian lilac, produces a mass of stunning blue flowers between late spring and early May
Cotoneasters are versatile evergreen shrubs that make excellent ground covering plants
Magnolias produce beautiful goblet or star-shaped flowers that flower in the spring and summer
Hydrangeas have delicate heads of flowers in shades of pink, white and blue
Daylight shrubbery Richenda Oldham chooses her favourite shrubs for all year-round interest and colour
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f you are looking to create a garden bursting with colour and interest all year round, then without doubt your planting list should have the heading “shrubs” right at the top. Shrubs are a garden essential, providing both structure and decorative impact: they are an important foundation ingredient in beds and borders, creating shape and context for other plants. When it comes to choosing shrubs, there’s a huge variety out there and you are sure to find plants that will suit your garden situation and soil type.
There are both deciduous and evergreen varieties, which will produce flowers throughout the summer, and others that will remain in flower or produce colourful berries throughout the autumn and winter months. Or you could choose aromatic, scented shrubs to help make your garden more sensory. Varieties such as lemon verbena, buddleja, daphne, hebe, lavandula, and mahonia, can be planted next to paths and entrances, so their wonderful smells can be appreciated on a daily basis.
POPULAR SHRUBS Viburnum - this handsome and versatile shrub is easy to grow and there are between 150 and175 species to choose from. There are plenty of excellent summer examples as well as winter flowering species to suit your taste, whether you want standalone plants or ones to integrate into a border. Viburnum farreri has stunning sweetly scented winter flowers, while the handsome summer flowering viburnum x hillieri ‘Winton’ was given the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. Camellia – hardy and disease resistant, it is not surprising that camelias are rated as one of the world’s best flowering plants. Glossy green foliage provides an attractive backdrop for a wide range of flowers in all hues of red, pink, white and a combination of
all three. The size of the flower ranges from small (just a few centimetres) to over 15 cm.
watch out, it can be invasive and will colonise open dry ground.
Cotoneaster – this popular garden shrub, which hails originally from Asia, comes in both evergreen and deciduous species. It produces white/ creamy white/light pink/dark pink/red flowers in late spring through to early summer and in winter it has bright red/orange or pink berries that are attractive to birds.
Berberis – this unappreciated shrub is actually a spectacular and useful plant of over 500 species. It’s tough, grows well in most soils and produces longlasting berries in shades of red, blues, blacks, coral and amber. Berberis will tolerate extremes of weather and temperature and is a must for wildlife gardens, providing food for both birds and small mammals.
Buddleja – rich in nectar and honey scented, buddlejas are sometimes known as ‘butterfly bushes’ as they are attractive to butterflies, as well as bees and moths, with flowers ranging in colour from pastel pinks to vibrant yellows and reds. The best known species is buddleja davidii, but
Hydrangea – this popular garden shrub thrives in a well-drained yet moist soil and likes semi-shade. It is well known for its mophead and lacecap species, which have the ability to change colour in different soils. Its delicate flower heads come in shades of pink, white and blue.
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