Whathouse? Southern June 2015

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

June 2015

INTERIORS P26 GARDENS P37 INVESTMENT P51 MORTGAGES P52 AUCTIONS P53

London calling –

the regeneration of Wandsworth P11

Starting over –

retirement property focus P29

Post-election reaction P3 JUST 5% DEPOSIT*

VIRIDIUM

Prices from

Camberley, Surrey

£279,950

Luxury collection of 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments.

• Award winning development 2015 FTB awards

• Carpets included

• Gated entrance with parking

• Luxury fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms

• Stunning spacious apartments with Balcony or terrace

• Help to Buy available

To book an appointment call: 01276 66693 *Available with Help to Buy subject to terms and conditions

HODSON

DE VELOPMENTS

London, Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Isle of Wight – Find your new home at Whathouse.com

You can keep in the picture with Veyo Chain View Launching in Spring 2015, Veyo is a comprehensive conveyancing portal that will enable Estate Agents and their clients to view the status of other transactions in the housing chain.

Find out more at www.veyo.co.uk

“The portal will offer greater transparency to everyone involved in the sale and transaction of a property�

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

post-election round up 3

Post-election W property focus

Welcome!

W

ith election fever beginning to die down and a Conservative government now in place, attentions are turning towards which pre-election pledges will now be implemented. A Conservative government certainly means an end to the Labour-

pledged mansion tax, but what will it mean for the housebuilding industry?

Here, we take a look at the reforms promised by the Conservatives in their pre-election manifesto, and take in the reactions of key players in the housebuilding and estate agency industries.

IN THE MANIFESTO

THE HOUSING MINISTER

• A £1bn fund to build 400,000 new homes on brownfield sites • A Help to Buy ISA to provide a 25% savings boost for first-time buyers • An extension of the Right to Buy policy to help 1.3m housing association tenants purchase their homes • 15,000 new homes in Garden Cities • No mansion tax • No rent controls

Brandon Lewis has retained his position as minister for housing and planning, after a brief period of confusion when he was erroneously replaced by Mark Francois on the website of the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

Lewis has held the position since

last July, and was congratulated by the Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA), who described him as a “highly effective minister”. ARLA is also leading the argument to elevate the position of housing minister to cabinet level, amid concerns that the position has long been undervalued in government, especially with housing having played a key role in this year’s general election.

THE INDUSTRY REACTS Housebuilders Steve Errington, chief executive of Story Homes “Story Homes welcomes the election of a majority Conservative government, which has already made a commitment to deliver muchneeded new housing throughout the country.

“We would like the new government to look at supporting affordable mortgages and a return to high loan-to-value mortgage products. A normalisation of a 5% to 10% deposit for customers would help to stimulate housebuilding.

With the National Planning Policy Framework embedded in most local authorities, government support to ensure that planning departments are resourced to prevent a bottleneck would be a prudent move.”

Andrew Richards, group managing director of Linden Homes “What the housebuilding industry now needs from the new government is stability. Stability translates into certainty around planning reform, ‘homebuyer enablers’ on offer and the wider economy to help keep Britain building. We hope that this government will command that level of guarantee and solidarity in the planning process to spur the delivery of much-needed homes across the country.

“We recently issued ‘Housing our Nation – a Manifesto’ in a bid to inform the debate with our suggested actions to help ease the housing crisis...[and] we look forward to discussing [these] ideas with the newly elected government.”

Ian Dyke, managing director of Rippon Homes “The government and the locally elected council members now need to address the housing shortage, which is driving up home prices for both first- and second-time buyers.

“The market is driven by supply and demand - if the supply is increased then the market price will stabilise. Housing is not an industry that can be switched on and off like other commodities - it takes up to 12 months to bring a new housing site to fruition to provide new homes, so all stakeholders must look at the process and the planning of developments to take this into account.”

Estate Agents Nick Leeming, chairman of Jackson-Stops & Staff “The clouds that have hung over the London property market have now dispersed. Having seen the number of property transactions slow down sharply over the last six months as the prospect of mansion tax loomed on the horizon, we expect to see

greater activity in the London market from now on.

“High valued properties, while still affected by some of the more recent tax changes, should see more stable demand and the resurgence of international interest. Now that London is open for business again we expect the wider markets to respond accordingly.”

Lucian Cook, head of research at Savills “We expect much of the deferred demand from the pre-election period to flow back into the prime market over the remainder of 2015 and 2016, particularly given that the spectre of a mansion tax is now removed from the market.”

Adam Day, founder of Hatched “I believe this to be great news for the housing market, particularly in the short term, evading the potential surprises and uncertainty that a Labour majority or hung parliament would have created.

“If we were faced with a Labour government today, they would have enforced rent cap rises and banned tenants’ fees. Both of these proposed policies would have interfered with market forces, something that should never be controlled. With a Conservative government, it is ‘business as usual’ and I predict that the market will continue to grow.”

Russell Quirk, founder of eMoov.co.uk “Those at the top end of the UK property market will be breathing a sigh of relief having avoided a hefty Labour-led mansion tax.

“I don’t think there will be huge implications at the other end of the market. The Conservatives introduced the new Help to Buy ISA to encourage first-time buyer votes and plan to extend it. I can’t see them making a U-turn on their stamp duty amendments either so the lower end of the market should benefit to some extent.”

Private Rented Sector Matt Hutchinson, director of SpareRoom.co.uk “A Tory majority is a worry for UK renters. The Conservatives’ pledges all but ignore the 11 million people in rented accommodation – in particular their concerns around rising rents and letting agents’ fees - with a tunnelvision focus on home ownership.

“Trying to get people on to the property ladder is the only box ticked. A supply shortage has led to unbelievable strain on the rental market over the past five years. The Tories need to act fast to ensure renters have access to affordable housing and are better protected from rent rises, particularly when interest rates rise and landlords see their mortgage repayments go up.”

hatever your political persuasion, the outcome of the general election was, from a property industry perspective, a positive one.

The machinations of creating a working partnership from a hung parliament may well have set back what has become a largely stable property market across the country.

Regions outside London and the South East have been recovering determinedly over the past few months after a destructive few years.

It was disappointing to hear some agents – unsurprisingly, those dealing with the headline-hogging “prime Central London” market – crowing about the likely surge in property prices in some parts of the capital when the prospect of a ‘Mansion Tax’ disappeared. While such rises are beneficial to some homeowners – and, of course, the agents they employ to sell their expensive homes – it hardly assists those already struggling at the foot of the property ladder in those areas.

It is widely recognised that modest year-on-year growth in property prices is the best position for everyone, though with the caveat, of course, that there’s an affordability factor in all this; that would-be buyers are able to borrow enough to buy the property they need in the area they would like to live in, without overstretching themselves now or risking such a scenario in the future.

We are so used to our record-low base rate, and consequently some of the record-low mortgage rates on offer, that it would be easy to forget (accidentally or otherwise) the certainty that from here, there’s only one way they are going to go. The Bank of England has been putting back its likely date for starting to raise the base rate until sometime in 2016, which will provide further leeway to increase their income by the time their currently low mortgage rate inevitably rises.

But we all have to remember that whether we’re on variable or fixed rates, there will come a day when that 0.5% base rate will be closer to 5% and the mortgage rates hovering just over 1% will be a dim and distant memory.

Government-supported schemes in the new homes industry in particular might also start to disappear and buyers will be back at a market-led “sink or swim” position. We all have to be careful that we know where the other lifebelts are kept before we fall in.

Keith Keith Osborne, editor. ko@whathouse.com @keithosborne69

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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 3rd June to 1st July 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 Marc Da Silva Nick Parkhouse Richenda Oldham Tilly Rubens Sales director Adrian Talbot at@globespanmedia.com Head of sales Andy Lunn al@whathouse.com Sales manager Jay Ali ja@whathouse.com Business development manager Steve Coyle sc@whathouse.com Account manager Ann Chaloner ac@whathouse.com

Stephen Maunder is assistant editor of Whathouse.com, having previously spent 18 months there as a freelance special correspondent. He has a background in academic research and has worked at Sky News as a picture researcher. He has also written for BBC News, Huffington Post UK and the Shropshire Star newspaper.

What House?

@What_House

Head of digital Simon Phillips simon@whathouse.com Cover photo: Barts Square in Smithfield, London, courtesy of Helical Bar, 020 7726 8995

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

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

...Buying a new home is a big decision, so you’ll want to know that your property is of good quality and your investment well protected.

Only builders approved and registered by NHBC can offer Buildmark, and they must build to the detailed technical standards we have been developing and updating for more than 75 years.

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6 six appeal

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

Viridium, Camberley, Surrey From £295,000

Viridium, an exclusive collection of apartments located on Frimley Road in Camberley, has scooped the Best Medium Development prize at the Awards.

Alan Hodson, managing director of Hodson Developments, says: “It was our aim to bring a unique development of very attractive apartments to the Camberley market that would appeal to a wide range of homebuyers, including first-time buyers. We are delighted with the result and we are very proud that Viridium has been awarded this fantastic accolade.”

Lynda Clark, editor of First Time Buyer Magazine, says: “Our panel of judges were particularly impressed with the very high quality of finish available with every

apartment at Viridium. It was clear to see that no corners have been cut and that every homebuyer would receive the same level of exceptional care.”

The attractive one-, two- and threebedroom apartments at Viridium are available with Help to Buy. With prices starting from £295,000, homebuyers only require a deposit of £14,750 to buy one of the stylish apartments if they take advantage of the government-backed Help to Buy.

From: Hodson Developments Contact: 01276 66693 (Romans Land & New Homes)

Six appeal

1

Our pick of the winners from the First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards 2015 Stonechat Mews, Dartford, Kent From £270,000

Regeneration specialists Countryside won the Private Developer of the Year category at the Awards and Stonechat Mews is a great example of the work they do.

This Kent development currently offers a range of two- and three-bedroom renovated apartments now available with the government-backed Help to Buy scheme.

Andrew Loveday, sales and marketing director at Countryside, says: “The refurbished apartments at Stonechat Mews present first-time buyers with a brilliant opportunity to get onto the property ladder. The Help to Buy scheme means that only a minimum of a 5% deposit is needed to secure their first home here at Stonechat Mews, which equates to £13,500 for a two-bedroom apartment costing £270,000.”

The apartments are located on part of

the Old Stone House Hospital site, part of what used to be the old nurses’ home, Martin House, originally built in 1909.

The development has been a special project for Countryside, refurbishing and renovating the existing building, mixing the history and character of the location with modern architecture and design.

The external shell and structure of the building have been retained and the inside completely renovated, with a quality specification, flooring fitted throughout and neutral contemporary decor. The stylish fitted kitchens have fully integrated appliances while bathrooms and en suites feature a light, natural palette contrasted with stylish chrome accessories.

From: Countryside Contact: 01322 277705

Kidbrooke Village, London SE3 From £255,000

Berkeley East Thames and Viridian were the winners in the Best Housing Alliance category, which has put the spotlight on their work together at the huge Kidbrooke Village regeneration project in southeast London, which will provide over 4,000 social and open-market new homes to a long-neglected corner of the capital.

Civil servant Peter White is delighted to be one of those who has finally found a home that he can call his own at the scheme, with the benefit of a shared ownership arrangement. “I am very pleased, it is not very easy to get on the property ladder and due to my circumstances I have been paying what you would call ‘dead rent’ for the last 15 years,” he says.

“I already lived in Kidbrooke through Southern Housing and have been here since 2011.

Without a partnership such as this then I would not have been able to purchase my own home.

In addition to that I must say it has been well designed and the amount of green space around the village has made a massive improvement.”

Over 88 hectares of Kidbrooke Village’s total area will be open space, including the new Cator Park.

White concludes: “Berkeley Homes and Viridian have been very thorough with their work and I am delighted to have finally moved in. I look forward to seeing the future facilities in the village centre in the coming years.”

From: B erkeley Homes/ Viridian Group Contact: B erkeley 020 8150 5151/ Viridian 0800 012 1442

8 six appeal

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

Six appeal The Schoolyard, Wandsworth, London SW18 £POA

2 The First Time Buyer report for the Best Show Home category says: “For the shared ownership show home at the exceptional new development, The Schoolyard, L&Q briefed Catherine Wilman Interiors to create a look that would be aspirational, yet affordable, combining modern elegance and practicality.

“Offering 139 outstanding apartments, including 20 shared ownership homes, priced from £93,750 for a 25% share, the superb development is ideal for first-time buyers. The topquality show home incorporates a mix of high street and luxury brands, blended with a range of contemporary fixtures and fittings and a colour palette of soft off-white and muted anthracite,

enlivened with accents of orange and bold artworks.”

The Schoolyard is located in the heart of Wandsworth and comprises a range of high-specification one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. It is close to the vibrant heart of Wandsworth and moments away from open spaces and the River Thames. Excellent transport links bring central within easy reach.

In addition to the low running costs associated with quality newbuild, Wandsworth also benefits from the lowest council tax in UK – another plus for those hoping to minimise the outlay at their very first home.

From: L&Q Contact: 0844 406 9288

Green Dragon House, Croydon From £206,250 Kings Park, Harold Wood, London RM3 From £110,250 Leading the Best Large Development category is East Thames Group with this development in Havering on the eastern fringes of Greater London.

The new build homes at the development are set in the grounds of the 19th-century, Grade II listed The Grange, which will be restored to its former glory as a centrepiece of the scheme. They have been sensitively designed to respect the regal history of the Great Gubbins site, which dates back to medieval times, combining contemporary

architecture and sustainable design.

Only three-bedroom houses now remain for sale under a shared ownership arrangement, with buyers able to purchase a home for as little as a 30% initial share.

One of the most appealing qualities of Kings Park is its location, particularly for travel into central London. Harold Wood station is reachable with an Oyster card (Zone 6) and provides a frequent train service to London Liverpool Street, with a journey time

of around 35 minutes. In addition, by 2018 Crossrail will provide extensive, fast links from Harold Wood station into central London and onwards to Heathrow and Maidenhead.

Harold Wood also has easy access to the nearby A12, A127 and M25 motorway.

From: East Thames Group Contact: 0300 303 7333

Designed in the 1960s as an office building for Croydon’s growing economy, Green Dragon House has been home to a number of wellknown companies over the years.

Today, however, with a change to residential use, the building is receiving an extensive programme of upgrading, refurbishment and development to create a new era of stylish, urban living.

Green Dragon House is centrally located in the area popularly known as Croydon’s Cultural Quarter. Here you’ll find numerous bars, quality restaurants, modern arts and shops, all just a stone’s throw away.

Croydon’s three stations are also nearby, with buses stopping right

outside and trams just a twominute walk away. So when you’re off exploring the surrounding areas, you won’t have far to walk.

Now transformed into a landmark setting for contemporary apartments, this Inspired Homes development offers high specifications throughout. Every home incorporates efficient heating and lighting, the UK’s fastest broadband, high quality fixtures and fittings and an open-plan interior designed for modern, luxurious, urban living.

From: Inspired Homes Contact: 020 7495 0523

Luxury homes in the highly desirable Blackheath Quarter Kidbrooke Village a new village for London

Merlin Court offers an outstanding choice of 2 and 3 bedroom apartments located at the contemporary Blackheath Quarter. Resident’s will benefit from a range of facilities including a bespoke swimming pool, cinema room, gym, treatment room and 24 hour Concierge.

Delivered in proud partnership with:

Only 15 minutes from London Bridge.* Starting price £490,000. Call a member of the sales team on 020 8003 2884.

Sales & Marketing Suite and Show Home now open daily 10am to 6pm (Thursdays until 8pm). Wallace Court, 40 Tizzard Grove, London SE3 9FD Computer generated Image depicts Merlin Court at Blackheath Quarter and is indicative only. Prices and details correct at time of going to press. *Source: www.tfl.gov.uk

www.kidbrookevillage.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Waterfront II - Now launched The ultimate riverside living with forthcoming on-site Crossrail station

1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available from £395,000. Call 020 8003 3661.

Sales & Marketing Suite open daily 10am to 6pm (Thursdays until 8pm).

No.1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich, London SE18 6FB Approximate travel times for Crossrail taken from Royal Arsenal Woolwich. Source: www.crossrail.co.uk Computer generated image of Waterfront is indicative only. Price and information correct at time of going to press.

www.royalarsenalriverside.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

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Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

In the spotlight: Wandsworth This month we take a look at the London borough that is home to one of the biggest regeneration projects in Europe

WHERE IS IT? The London borough of Wandsworth is located in South West London, bordering with Hammersmith and Fulham to the north, Lambeth to the east, Merton to the south and Richmond to the west. Towns here include Putney, Earlsfield, Clapham, Balham, Tooting and Battersea.

WHO LIVES THERE? The 2011 census found that 307,000 people live here, although that number is likely to have increased significantly in the last four years. There has been a notable increase in young families moving to the borough, with 44% of residents aged 25 to 44 (up from 36% in 2000) and the proportion of children aged under five up by 33% in the same period.

council tax. The average yearly council tax for a Band D property here is £687, just £9 a year behind tabletopping Westminster and more that £250 cheaper than third-placed City of London (£941.79). Watch out for the car parking charges, though – they were worth £29m to Wandsworth council last year.

WHAT IS THE POLITICAL LANDSCAPE LIKE? Of the 60 council seats here, 40 are held by the Conservatives and 19 by Labour (one seat is held by an independent candidate), and the borough has been a Conservative stronghold in council elections since 1978. Of the three constituency seats here, Putney and Battersea are held by the Conservatives and Tooting is held by Labour.

WHAT IS IT FAMOUS FOR?

WHAT DO HOUSES COST?

Wandsworth is dotted with iconic sites, including Battersea Power Station, HM Wandsworth Prison and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

The arts are well represented by the historic Battersea Arts Centre (BAC).

Tooting Bec Lido – England’s biggest open-air swimming pool - is exceptionally popular, while the green space of Battersea Park stretches for 200 acres and is connected to the Thames Path.

According to research from the property group CBRE, Wandsworth is the sixth most unaffordable borough in London. On average, flats here are priced at £668,806, semi-detached homes £838,887 and detached homes £1.41m.

DID YOU KNOW? Wandsworth is known for its cheap

ARE THERE ANY REGENERATION PROJECTS UNDERWAY? Nine Elms The borough is set to see more new homes built in the next decade than

anywhere else in London. Nine Elms, a district in the north-eastern corner of the borough, is home to one of Europe’s biggest regeneration areas, with 18,000 new homes in the works (at least 5,000 of which will be low-cost).

The project, which also aims to create 25,000 new jobs, stretches across 195 hectares and includes more than 20 interconnected development sites. There will also be an extension to the Northern Line, with two new tube stations at Nine Elms and Battersea expected to open by 2020.

The regenerated area will benefit from three iconic attractions – the newly developed Battersea Power Station, the new United States Embassy and New Covent Garden Market.

11

NEW HOMES

Carlton Gate by Henley Homes Putney Hill, SW15 Located on Putney Hill, Carlton Gate is a collection of 24 two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom penthouses, set behind a faithfully reimagined art deco style façade.

Homes at Carlton Gate are finished to the highest standard, with all properties here featuring an openplan kitchen/living/dining space.

Each apartment also comes with a private terrace or balcony, as well as the option of audio-visual packages, mood lighting and automated blinds.

Carlton Gate is just a short walk from both East Putney underground station (District Line) and Putney national rail station. Newly released apartments start from £875,000.

Find out more at www.carltongatesw15. co.uk; or by contacting joint appointed agents Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward (020 8222 7200) or Douglas and Gordon (020 8788 3000)

The Ram Quarter by Greenland Group Wandsworth, SW18 The Ram Quarter will offer a collection of 661 new homes on the site of the former Ram Brewery (most recently run by Young’s until the brewery’s closure in 2006) in the centre of Wandsworth. When completed, this development will provide everything from studio apartments to four-bedroom properties across its four buildings.

In addition to a landmark residential tower and over 9,500 sq m

of space dedicated to new shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, the development by will preserve many of the site’s historic buildings, which will be restored and refurbished.

The River Wandle, which runs through the site, will be rejuvenated as a central feature. Prices start from £435,000.

Find out more at www.theramquarter.com; 0800 886 777

Wandsworth Town Work has commenced on a £1bn project in Wandsworth town centre to transform the high street and improve its transport links, cutting down on congestion, noise and pollution. The long-awaited development of the sixacre Ram Brewery site will bring a host of new homes, bars and restaurants in a new waterfront quarter.

Winstanley and York Road Estates After two years of consultations, plans are afoot to redevelop two of Battersea’s most famous council estates, demolishing 700 homes and building 2,000 new ones in their place, in addition to a new park, community centre, library and leisure centre.

Radius by Taylor Wimpey Wandsworth, SW18 Taylor Wimpey’s Radius development consists of a collection of luxury apartments in Osiers Road, Point Pleasant.

Located between Putney Bridge and Wandsworth Bridge, this collection of one-, two- and threebedroom homes is located in a highly desirable location close to the banks of the River Thames and within easy reach of central London.

Each two-bedroom property features an open-plan kitchen/dining/ living room opening through sliding

doors to a private balcony or terrace, with a well-proportioned master bedroom, a double guest bedroom, a bathroom and a storage closet off the internal entrance hallway. Selected plots offer en suite facilities to master bedrooms.

Prices here range from £650,000 for a two-bedroom apartment up to £875,000 for a three-bedroom property.

Find out more at www.taylorwimpey.co.uk; 0203 674 1403

12 london

For the latest on the property market

@What_House

Hip to be square Barts Square is bringing new homes to an historic but long-neglected part of the Square Mile

S

tep into the shops, pubs and bars of Smithfield and you’re likely to see a real mix of clientele, from bushy-bearded hipsters to suited-and-booted City professionals.

The district’s location, neighbouring the historic creative quarter of Clerkenwell and the commercial HQs of the Square Mile, attracts a truly diverse spectrum of people to work and play, but it’s not really known as a residential quarter.

Developer Helical Bar is certainly hoping to change that with its Barts Square mixed-use scheme, transforming an area right on the edge of Smithfield Market and opposite St Bart’s Hospital. While retaining a number of interesting buildings and

facades, the development will also replace some mundane post-war architecture with some high-quality new office space and over 200 stylish new homes.

“Whenever a new central London development site comes to market, there is invariably considerable hype about ‘unique locations’ and ‘once in a lifetime development opportunities’,” says Nikki Gibbard, development executive for Helical Bar, who has been preparing the scheme for release for over four years.

“While these sweeping statements need to be taken with a healthy pinch of salt, it would not be hyperbolic to say that Barts has presented us with a truly fantastic opportunity to create a place like no other. There are currently

around 7,500 residences in the City of London and it is unlikely that more than 12,000 will ever be permitted, for several reasons.

“These include the need for the Square Mile to retain its business focus as a centre of global commerce, coupled with a lack of large-scale residential infrastructure resulting from its historic business dominance.

“Therefore to be able to develop 236 high quality and carefully designed residences on a 3.2-acre site steeped in historical charm is, for us, an unrivalled opportunity.”

Barts Square will feature apartments and penthouses in a number of discrete buildings, creating some new garden areas and a large piazza, where a new range of shops and restaurants

will provide a focal point for the new community living there. There’s a considerable choice of size and layout of property, giving each an individual feel, particularly in those behind the retained historic frontages.

Gibbard and the Helical Bar team have deliberated at length about the interior design, formulating a range of muted, textured materials and finishes that are contemporary without sacrificing a more traditional, homely quality. The attention to detail inside and out has certainly struck a chord with buyers since the scheme launched in autumn 2014, with over 70% of the available units selling out and current interest remaining strong.

“There will be a further phase of 52 units released in due course and

interest in these buildings, which contain a number of smaller units, is already building,” adds Gibbard.

“Barts Square has become more than just a development scheme for us, it is a labour of love, in which we have been given the opportunity to create a new quarter of the City, and a privilege which we certainly do not take lightly.”

The current selection of two- and three-bedroom apartments and warehouses is available from £1.2m to £4.5m. A further release of one-bedroom apartments later this year is likely to start from around £750,000.

Find out more at www.bartssquare.com; 020 7726 8995

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.

0661 BartsResi_ad_WH_FP_01June_ART.indd 1

27/05/2015 17:55

Vista, Drayton Garden Village

Creating new communities across the South

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.

Charterhouse Mews, Chelmsford

DEVELOPMENTS INCLUDE: Carter’s Quay, Poole 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

Abbeywood Park, Markyate 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom houses

Vista, Drayton Garden Village, West Drayton 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

COMING SOON: The Comptons, Wooburn Green 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses

St John’s, Chelmsford 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses Charterhouse Mews, Chelmsford 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2 bedroom houses

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The Comptons,Wooburn Green

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.

Alexandra Gardens, Iver 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses Rutherford Park, Stanbridge 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

St John’s, Chelmsford

www.inlandhomes.co.uk

london

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

15

A day in the life of a London estate agent

Simon Hedley of Druce in Marylebone tells us about his working day as a London estate agent

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g enerally start the day with a quick catch-up meeting with the team, during which we talk about any properties which may be sticking, or alternatively, any homes which are attracting multiple bids. In this instance we need to make sure we have a full understanding of the type of buyer bidding – for example, are they involved in a chain, will they be able to get a mortgage etc – as well as the highest bid.

I usually spend a couple of hours a day giving valuations with my team.

We will never give a figure on-site, but will return to the office first to research comparables, discuss saleability and ensure we have some distance from the owner to avoid emotional evaluations.

The key in valuing is not just to consider the previous sales of similar properties but also to consider the untapped potential of the property.

Marketing is a key part of my job and any agent’s day. Search engine optimisation is something we spend a lot of time on, as the internet has become such a key source of marketing for us in the last decade. Newspapers

and magazines still have their place though, so some time is given to analysing which properties we should place in which magazines.

I spend a lot of time working with developers. This process can start when a client pre-inspects a site before bidding and can run until every last unit is sold. This is probably the part of the job I love the most, as I really relish looking at the space with the developer and ensuring we all work together to create the most positive product while maximising the return – a process which can last decades.

This is a holistic process which involves design, architecture, lighting, finishes, landscaping, dressing and art and finally marketing. My longest development involvement was with Fitzrovia Apartments – this lasted over 10 years from start to finish.

Clients pop in each day, some of whom I have known for many of my 25 years in Marylebone. I smile sometimes when I remember young boys to whom I have sold flats, before helping them move up the ladder with their fiancés some years later and, more years later,

helping to sell and re-buy when they get divorced or (more positively) have two or three children and need a bigger home.

Marylebone attracts a fair few celebrity buyers and sellers, some from stage and screen and some from sport, design and business. I remember taking one very young attractive singer famous for her witty lyrics and having to literally fight paparazzi off as we exited each flat. I sold her a lovely flat in the end with a fabulous terrace, which we went on to sell for her a few years later after she had had a baby. We have taken many minor, medium and A-list celebrities out on the streets of Marylebone and I always feel amused watching the passers by turning in shock, giggling to their mates and then walking on with their necks craned round like rubber chickens.

No day is the same really, some are quiet and some are frantic but most are at a nice steady pace. My role involves a bit of chat, a bit of advice and the delivery of both good and (sadly) occasionally bad news. All in all, it’s a great job, made by the people I work with… although the properties do help too.

Find out more at www.druce.com; 020 7935 6535

LIME WALK WEMBLEY

SHOW HOME NOW OPEN LIME WALK COMPRISES A CONTEMPORARY COLLECTION OF 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS • Intelligently designed layouts offering a fantastic specification

• A 5 min walk from Wembley Park Station with links to the West End within 30 mins on the Jubilee line*

• Moments from Wembley Stadium, the SSE Arena and the London Designer Outlet

• Less than a mile from Fryent Country Park offering 254 acres of open space*

Prices from £280,000† Flexible buying options available Marketing Suite & Show Home open Thursday to Monday, 10am to 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm Viewings by appointment only

networkliving.co.uk

0203 667 1516

LIME-WALK.CO.UK

Computer generated image of Lime Walk. Internal images of previous Network Living developments. *Travel times and distances approximate only taken from Google maps and TFL. †Prices correct at time of press.

More news and interviews at whathouse.com/news

advertorial 17

Weston Homes announce 60% of phase one sold at Preston Hall

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e ading Home Counties housebuilder, Weston Homes has announced that 60% of the first phase of apartments at Preston Hall have sold to a range of buyers including first time buyers, couples and professionals looking to own a home at the prestigious development.

Weston Homes has received over 400 enquiries from those interested in owning a piece of history, many of which are from London, the home counties and the local area.

Bob Weston, CEO of Weston Homes commented “Preston Hall is one of a kind and we are not surprised at the overwhelming level of interest received for the scheme since its launch in February. The majority of purchasers have been from London and its surrounding areas but we did have one couple who flew in especially from America to be first in line to purchase an apartment in the opening weekend.“ The successful launch event, which took place in February 2015, saw the arrival of over 200 attendees to see the newly restored entrance hall and two bedroom show apartment, which opened with a glittering firework display.

Situated in Aylesford, Kent, Preston Hall comprises of 36 luxurious one, two, three and four bedroom

residences, which consists of the restoration of a historic 53,686 sq ft Grade II listed mansion into a new residential address.

Each of 36 residences have individual marketing names, unique layouts and features and include apartments, mews houses and villas.

They range up to 2,255 sq ft in size, some with mezzanine levels open to spectacular double height living areas.

Weston Homes have skillfully combined period details including wall paneling, fireplaces, ceiling coving and moldings with state-of-the-art specification including designer fully fitted Oakwood kitchens with quartz stone tops and Fascino sink and instant boiling water tap. Spacious stone paneled bathroom suites and generous living rooms and luxurious bedrooms result in new homes that combine history with all the facilities required for modern living.

Located off London Road (A20) and dating back to 1102, Preston Hall was for over 400 years the country residence of the Culpeper family, relatives of the Dukes of Norfolk, whose descendants included Joyce Culpeper (mother of Queen Catherine Howard, fifth wife of Henry VIII); Catherine Howard and Sir Thomas Culpeper, courtier to Henry VIII and

Preston Hall in 1904

Catherine’s secret lover, a liaison for which they were both executed.

In 1848 Preston Hall was purchased

by Edward Ladd Betts, a railroad baron, who sold Preston Hall in 1867 to rival railway baron Thomas Brassey. In 1914 the final family to own Preston Hall, the Sauber family, gifted the hall to the Red Cross, enabling it to serve as a hospital during WWI. In 1925 Preston Hall became a hospital for the Royal British Legion and finally between 1945 to 2012 it served as headquarters for the local health authority.

Prices at Preston Hall start from £340,000 for the final remaining apartments in phase one. The second phase of homes is set to launch in Summer 2015.

For further information, please visit the Sales and Marketing suite which is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Alternatively please contact Weston Homes on 01279 873 300 or visit www.weston-homes.com

18 london

For the latest on the property market

@What_House

An irresistible fourth

The growth of Harrods Estates in prime central London continues with the launch of an office in Kensington Church Street

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i th established offices in Knightsbridge, Mayfair and Chelsea, the new Harrods Estates branch, which has just opened on Kensington Church Street, is part of an ambitious expansion plan for the real estate arm of the famous Harrods department store.

A warm spring evening was the perfect backdrop to a lively launch event, attended by Harrods staff, investors and some of the local network of estate agents. It was a chance for the brand new team of eight, headed up by Nicholas Shaw, to familiarise themselves with the offices and meet many of the people they will be dealing with regularly in the everpopular Kensington area.

Shirley Humphrey, a director at Harrods Estates, says: “We are delighted to launch our new office on Kensington Church Street. This new office opening forms an integral part of the Harrods Estates expansion plan to open further offices in prime London locations over

Nicholas Shaw heads up the new Harrods Estates office in Kensington

the next five years.”

Shaw, who has worked for Harrods Estates for five years, added: “As a local resident, I know and love the area, which is popular with families, professionals and those seeking to be near the range of excellent UK and international schools, particularly the British, French and Americans.”

Harrods Estates opened within the world famous Knightsbridge department store in 1897 and was originally operated from within the Harrods department store. A second office opened in Mayfair at the height of the property boom in 2005 and a third followed in Chelsea in 2013.

The new office will incorporate

POPULAR LOCATION

Rosendale Road SE24

Countess Spencer (centre) joins the Harrods Estates team at the launch event

services in sales, letting and acquisition of some of Kensington’s most soughtafter properties, along with asset management, property management and new development services. The Harrods name is highly regarded around the world, and around 89% of the company’s lettings and sales originate from an overseas client base, particularly

from the Middle East and Russia.

You can see a full-length interview about the new Harrods Estates office and the Kensington property market with Nicholas Shaw at https://youtu. be/AkWLYuq37i4 Find out more at www.harrodsestates.com; 020 7225 6506

EXCELLENT TRANSPORT LINKS

Merchants Walk E3

2 bed apartments and cottages Prices from £490,000

Studio,1,2 & 3 bed apartments Prices from £310,000

Call: 020 3369 8725

Call: 020 3369 8684

LAST REMAINING HOUSE AND APARTMENT

The Peltons SE10 2 bed apartment and 3 bed house Prices from £478,500

Call: 020 3369 8677 Computer generated images are indicative only and subject to change. Prices correct at time of going to press.

FINAL PHASE JUST RELEASED

More West W10

1 & 2 bed apartments & duplexes Prices from £433,000

Call: 020 3369 8782

Artist’s impression. For illustrative purposes only

Prices from

£575,000 Sat Nav: W7 3ST

BentleyCourt UXBRIDGE ROAD

Bentley Court is a new development of nine, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes tucked away in a gated court located off Uxbridge Road in Hanwell, Ealing. All the properties have private gardens and parking making this a fabulous environment for London living.

For more information please contact Lea Valley Homes

The development is located next to St Mellitus Church, an imposing Gothic style building of the Edwardian period situated in the heart of Hanwell.

E | sales@leavalleyhomes.co.uk W | leavalleyhomes.co.uk

Specification includes Paula Rosa Manhattan kitchens with granite worktop, integrated AEG appliances, flooring throughout, contemporary fully tiled bathrooms and en-suites.

T | 01923 251799

COMING SOON

Eight unique Grade II listed 2, 3 and 4 bedroom barns converted to a high specification, retaining many original features.

London has been our home for over 150 years.

Make it yours.

All properties have private gardens with plots 1, 2 and 8 having the added benefit of a paddock.

Prices from £650,000

‘The Barns’ Merton Grange is situated in an idyllic rural location on the edge of Gamlingay in South Cambridgeshire. The approach is via a private drive with far reaching views either side across fields.

Specification includes:

St John’s Way SW11 A new way of life is emerging in the heart of Battersea 1, 2 & 3 bed apartments and 3 & 4 bed triplexes Prices coming soon

Call to register: 020 3369 8728

 Fully fitted kitchens with integrated appliances including range cooker and wine cooler  Flooring throughout  Contemporary fully tiled bathrooms & en-suites, including vanity units and heated towel rails  Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished handles.

Tel : 01923 251799

peabodysales.co.uk

Email: sales@leavalleyhomes.co.uk www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk

20 kent

For the latest on the property market

@What_House

Show home of the month: Ashlin Quarter, Aylesford Michael Shwartz Group’s Kent show home benefits from the personal touch

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o rk at Ashlin Quarter, located just a few minutes from the centre of Aylesford, to the northwest of Maidstone, is already well underway, the first phase of eight homes is now complete and ready for occupation. Following a well-attended homebuyer event just a few weeks ago, interest from house-hunters in

and around this popular Kent village is already strong.

One of the key factors in the development’s success to date has been its show home – a three-storey, fourbedroom ‘Blackwell’ house type, with distinctive pastel weatherboarding and a traditional Kentish-style roof.

The eye-catching exterior is only half the story, however. Inside, visitors will see a professionally designed

interior, which has been created by Mandi Boydell of JSP Interiors, in close collaboration with the Michael Shwartz marketing team, led by Ameeta Sharma and Shahleena Khan.

The team has complemented elegant, modern factors, such as the Symphony kitchen, Porcelanosa tiles, a full range of AEG appliances and Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware with interesting floor and wall coverings,

soft furnishings and decoration. The result is a bold and individual house that stands out in the crowded new homes marketplace.

The team has carefully considered every detail in every room, to create a home that is welcoming and inspiring.

While, as the photographs show, there are plenty of stylish, contemporary touches, there is an underlying ‘homeliness’ to the property. It is

difficult to imagine everyday life in some show homes, but at this one, the mix of practical, comfortable furniture and accessories with on-trend details makes it easy for any family to imagine themselves moving in straight away.

We’ll let the pictures do the talking, but you can find out more at ashlinquarter.com (01622 790 090) and arrange to go along and see this exceptional show home for yourself.

22 kent

More news and interviews at whathouse.com/news

Rural living

River Cottage, Elham• £2.25m River Cottage is a picturesque Grade II listed property, idyllically set in the Elham Valley. The house has been extensively remodelled and enlarged during the vendors‘ 40-year ownership, always with complete sensitivity to the original architecture, and the result is an exquisite and impeccably presented home.

The gardens are a particular feature of the house, having been expertly landscaped, with a stunning walled kitchen garden, tennis court and views up and down the valley.

Our favourite countryside properties in Kent

T

h is month, we take a look at three of the best rural homes currently on the market in Kent, with Bright & Bright in Deal and Strutt & Parker in Canterbury.

The Old Stables, Lydden • £350,000

Find out more by calling Strutt & Parker in Canterbury on 01227 806308

The Cottage, Belmont Paddock • £725,000

An attractive three-bedroom period property formed from an old cottage, stables and coach house to the neighbouring property, Waters End House.

This intriguing home offers great value and significant potential for modernisation and improvement, and boasts it own private drive and wooded grounds. Period features

here include exposed brickwork, panelling, beams and sash windows.

The Old Stables is located in a partially wooded valley northwest of Temple Ewell, while Kearsney, Dover and the A2 are all easily accessible.

Find out more by calling Bright & Bright in Deal on 01304 374071

Reaching new heights in selling and letting every type of property.

Your property is probably one of your most valuable asset, when it comes to selling or renting your property, an agent with considerable knowledge and experience is essential. As such, we are fully committed to providing you with a top quality service and ensuring that things move along as swiftly and smoothly as possible. We provide our service at competitive commission rates, and on a no sale no fee basis.

tel: 0203 743 0333 | email: info@canaryproperties.co.uk

The Cottage dates from the 19th century and has been extended and renovated throughout to provide a beautifully presented living space in delightful rural location where it is secluded but not isolated.

Situated just to the south of Painters Forstal, The Cottage is within easy reach of local amenities including the village inn and preparatory school together with generous shopping facilities and further schooling in Faversham.

Find out more by calling Bright & Bright in Deal on 01304 374071

o o

Oakwood FARM

Fairseat WROTHAM • KENT • TN15 7LT

Just eight luxury 4 and 5 bedroom homes

Marketing Suite

NOW OPEN

Mill House

Prices from

£965,000 Featuring - luxury fitted kitchens and bathrooms, integrated appliances, large gardens & surrounded by farmland Viewings by appointment only

01622 822505

Farmstead

marketing@hillreed.co.uk

Also at Iwade, Sevenoaks and Kings Hill

Ask us about Part Exchange or our Home Change scheme

www.hillreed.co.uk

24 buying agents

@What_House

For the latest on the property market

On the road with a buying agent In a competitive market, the popularity of buying agents is on the rise.

Stephen Maunder spends a day with The Buying Solution in the Cotswolds to find out why.

Newtown Farm

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t ’s a busy time to be a buying agent, as Claire Owen quickly informs me as she bounds into The Buying Solution’s Kingham office. Claire is the senior buying consultant for TBS in the Cotswolds area, and she’s prepared an itinerary of local properties for us to take a look at.

Buying agents have to keep their ears firmly pressed to the ground to avoid missing out, but TBS are confident that they can outstrip their competitors. “There are other companies that provide similar services” she says, “but they lack some of the precise local knowledge that we demonstrate, and of course the vast range of estate agency contacts we have”.

The backing of Knight Frank is, of course, crucial, but it’s the local knowledge that is of the gretest interest. Consultants for TBS live in

The Stables

the areas they cover, meaning they are able to tell you everything from the issues with the one-way system on a Saturday afternoon to which pub serves the best range of ales. In a world of online shopping for houses, is local knowledge really so crucial?

“It’s extremely important to our clients”, Owen says. “We see buyers coming from London, perhaps looking for a place in the country or a weekend retreat, and they want to feel assured that they are buying a home in the right place and that there will be no nasty surprises when they move in”.

Our first port of call is Newtown Farm*, in the picturesque village of Guiting Power. The farm is an intriguing proposition, and comes with a hefty guide price of £5.65m. The plot here stretches to an intimidating 347 acres, and it is only on a jeep ride around the sprawling land that one can really appreciate the challenge that

this mixed-use property entails. Detail is everything, as Owen scribbles away at the plans, taking note of how fields could be partitioned and what effect the bridle path might have on a sale.

Such versatile land brings a range of opportunities. Interested buyers have already been circling, and propositions range from selling the farmhouse and its immediate surrounds separately from the main plot, to knocking the farmhouse down and building a new property, or simply purchasing the whole plot.

Once the notes have been taken, a gentle drive to Evenlode follows to visit The Stables, a delightful secluded property with exceptional outdoor space, on the market with a guide price of £1.45m. The property has an immediate appeal that suggests it won’t be hanging around for too long.

The most notable moment of our tour comes as we wait for the hourly train

to pass along a track in the middledistance. “It’s not too loud” Owen says, carefully examining for any noise pollution, “but I might need to come back at a different time of day to assess it properly”.

After visiting The Stables, we retire to a local pub, where Owen goes through an example of the comprehensive homebuyer report that TBS provides to all buyers upon agreeing to make an offer for a property. All of the usual elements one would expect from a survey are here, but it’s the fine details that tip the balance. A special section is dedicated to local shops, for those times when a buyer might need to find the nearest dry cleaner or butcher. This personal service continues after completion – with a full property inspection taking place and a completion management specialist enlisted to deal with the transfer of utilities.

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BUYING SOLUTION

THE PROCESS

The Buying Solution is the independent buying consultancy of Knight Frank, one of the world’s most well-known property agents.

TBS finds and secures residential properties around the UK for its retained clients. Local

1) Searching and shortlisting

specialists meet with clients and discuss their exact requirements, before using their extensive local knowledge and contacts to locate and secure the best properties.

PROFILE: CLAIRE OWEN Claire is the senior buying consultant for the Cotswolds area, covering the South Cotswolds, Cheltenham, Bath and Worcestershire. From an estate agency background in both residential sales and as a negotiator for Knight Frank’s country department, she now works closely with Jonathan Bramwell from the TBS office in Kingham.

Each search begins with an initial consultation with the client, where a bespoke plan of action is drawn up so that the consultant can target specific areas and property types.

The consultant visits and assesses properties and creates a shortlist before recommending personal accompanied viewings of those that meet all requirements.

2) Negotiation The consultant is both tactical and creative when negotiating on the client’s behalf and aims to secure ‘preferred buyer’ status on a property.

3) Due diligence and acquisition Working with lawyers, surveyors, architects, planning advisors and financers, the consultant undertakes comprehensive due diligence to ensure the quality of the property.

The ribbons and bows of the service are certainly attractive, but again, the most important aspect of the service comes from the grapevine. As we drive into a relatively innocuous cul-desac, Owen slows down and points to a property. “We’ve heard one of these houses might come on to the market in the next year or so” she says coyly.

Is demand really so high that agents need to be that far ahead of the game? “Yes” she responds. “You might find a buyer who wants a property in a specific village or even on a specific road. Some will be prepared to pay above market value to secure a home that might not yet be on the market, while others will sit tight and wait for the opportunity to knock.” The impression is that once the opportunity does knock, TBS will be first in line. *In the time that has passed since visiting the property, Newtown Farm has been sold and is no longer on the market.

This process can cover everything from price analysis to planning issues, rental yields and noise blight investigation.

4) Purchase Once the purchase is agreed, the consultant works closely with the client’s solicitor to assist with any other issues that might affect the purchase.

5) Post Completion Management TBS provides a bespoke service to cover the client’s needs. This continues beyond the exchange of contracts, starting with a Post Completion Management service, which helps clients settle in to their new property.

Find out more at www.thebuyingsolution.co.uk; 01608 690780

If you are in the construction industry, then we can help with all your insurance needs. Whether you want to cover the computers in your office, your onsite equipment, your tools or your motor fleet, we can help.

KL’s reputation has been built on our expertise in providing cover to all the trades within the construction industry.

From sole traders through to multinationals, we can provide the right cover to remove the risks that can harm your business.

To find out more and discuss your particular circumstances contact info@kerrylondon.co.uk

Construction. Covered.

26 interiors

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

Grout expectations Current wall tile trends are all about bold colour, pattern and texture. Richenda Oldham asks, are you feeling brave?

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3

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5

1 Moody blue: these dramatic mosaic tiles have a hint of the Medina about them and are a mixture of stone, glass and metal; Raipur mosaics, £199.95 per 300 x 300mm sheet, www.originalstyle.com; 2 Black is back: Black is the new grey and is ideal for making an impact in a small space such as a cloakroom; Underground black ceramic wall tiles, £18 per square metre, B&Q www.diy.com; 3 Patchwork pretty: mix textured and plain tiles in delicious complementary colours, with gold tiles for a shimmery highlight, to create an eye-catching visual feast; Picasso Natural Patchwork tiles, www.alhambrahome.co.uk; 4 Tin city: it’s hard to believe that these detailed tiles are actually a vintage-effect wallpaper and not the real deal; Brooklyn Tin Tiles wallpaper, £219 per 10-metre roll, www.housejunkie.co.uk; 5 Plum choice: brick-shaped tiles with a bevelled edge are perfect for injecting an industrial feel into a contemporary kitchen - the spicy Marsala colourway is bang on trend, too. Metro tiles, £16 per square metre, www.tilemountain.co.uk

Now on Sale:

an exciting range of 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes in Brierley Hill. Choose from 10 different designs!

Artisan’s Walk is a whole new community, perfectly placed almost equidistant from Wolverhampton and Birmingham, just off Brettell Lane, with views towards the Clent Hills.

Beautifully built to an exacting specification using energy saving technology, all the homes at Artisan’s Walk will be economic to run.

The careful design and well thought out interiors will make them practical and comfortable to live in too.

Ask about our launch incentives 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes from £155,000

Showhome open daily 10.00am - 5.30pm

Artisan’s Walk, off Delph Road, Brierley Hill, DY5 2RP Call: 0845 873 2887 or visit: www.lioncourthomes.co.uk

Help to Buy

For the latest on the property market

@What_House

interiors 27

In the dog house Richenda Oldham goes in search of canine comfort and finds there are some seriously luxurious beds out there for discerning dogs (and their owners)

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f you were to spend around 12-14 hours each day sleeping, you’d make sure you chose a comfortable bed, wouldn’t you?

Well, that’s how long dogs spend actually asleep. For 30% of the day they are awake, but inactive, which leaves just 20% to run around and exercise.

So it makes sense to improve the quality of a dog’s life by providing them with the best possible bed, based on the simple (but commonsense) principles of warmth and softness.

There are an unbelievable number of different types of dog bed on the market, from pads and mattresses to solid foam ‘nest’-style beds or even sofas, so it’s a good idea to evaluate your dog and his needs first before going shopping. Even if your dog is allowed to share your chairs and bed, there will be times when you won’t want him to, but if he has a great bed of his own, he might actually prefer to sleep there...

A simple checklist could be: • Breed • Size • Age • Habits

Furry friend: what dog could resist snuggling up on this luxurious faux Silver Fox fur dog bed? Fofo bed by Sasha & Me, £129.99, thepetbusiness.co.uk

Country classic: Harris Tweed and leather basket on wooden bun feet, available in a choice of colours, £295, www.pinkwhiskers.co.uk

Lady in red: beechwood frame dog lounger, ideal for smaller breeds such as terriers, spaniels, pugs or poodles, £229, www.inspaces.com

Cover story: use this Molly Mutt dog bed duvet to cover an old dog bed or fill it with redundant pillows to make a smart new bed for your pooch, £16.99, www.easyanimal.co.uk

CLEANLINESS Unless you are prepared to buy a new dog bed every time your pet’s bed becomes too dirty and smelly to bear, then washability has to be top of a list of must-have dog bed features.

It’s also important to control fleas by keeping the bed clean.

Check to see whether a dog bed is machine washable, or at the very least if its cover can be washed.

DESIGN It’s important that you choose a style that suits your dog. It’s not just a simple case of big bed for big dog and small bed for small dog. Some dogs like to curl up tight in round beds with raised ‘doughnut’ sides, which makes them feel secure, while others like to stretch out, in which case a mattress or pillow design is a better choice. Other dogs like to sleep under a blanket, in which case a ‘cave’ bed (with a cover that is already attached) is ideal as it allows the dog to burrow beneath the cover.

For old dogs with stiff joints, a well-padded bed that is easy to climb in and out of is essential, while for a dog that feels the cold, a raised bed (off the floor and out of draughts) with high sides, will help keep it warm.

For anyone tempted by a ‘designer’ sofa style bed, which will generally have a solid frame, covered in either leather, or fabric, make sure that your dog isn’t a serial chewer. The same applies to rattan beds, which are irresistible to some dogs.

Basketweave: this smart Charley Chau raised dog bed is hand made in greywashed rattan and demonstrates that it’s possible to combine canine comfort with trend setting design, £210, www.charleychau.com

Snug as a bug: for dogs who love to sleep under a cover then a bed with a cosy pocket to burrow under is ideal, Charley Chau snuggle bed, £65, www.charleychau.com

NEW IS GETTING YOUR NEXT HOME WITH HELP TO BUY With the Government-backed Help to Buy scheme you could take your next step up the property ladder sooner than you think. Buy any new Barratt home in England worth up to £600,000 and you could be eligible. Here’s how it works: you provide a 5% deposit and the Government gives you an equity loan of up to 20% of the property’s value. That means you only need a 75% mortgage and you’ll still own 100% of your new home.

St Mary’s Park, Dilly Lane, Hartley Wintney RG27 8EG The exclusive Rowling design is now released from £419,995 Marketing Suite open Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 10am - 4pm

barratthomes.co.uk 01252 842 867

Help to Buy

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. Limited availability, selected plots only. Subject to status, terms and conditions apply. See www.barratthomes.co.uk for full details. BDW Trading Limited (number 03018173) whose registered office is at Barratt House, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon Hill, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 1UF (“BDW”) BDW is a subsidiary of Barratt Developments PLC. The Homes and Communities Agency (“HCA”) provides an equity loan for 20% of the purchase price of the property. The equity loan provided by the HCA is secured as second charge on your property. The amount you have to repay to the HCA may be more than the amount of the equity loan provided. Help to Buy England Scheme is available in England only and on properties up to £600k. Prices correct at time of going to press.

Advertising images may include upgrades as home spec can vary.

For the latest on the property market

@What_House

retirement 29

Fit for a princess HRH Princess Alexandra unveils plaque at Anchor’s Bishopstoke Park retirement village

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h e development team of Anchor Trust’s Bishopstoke Park recently welcomed HRH Princess Alexandra to the award-winning retirement village to unveil a plaque in the village square.

Her Royal Highness was given a tour of the development and met the people working on the new ageexclusive properties under construction at the site, which is located on the outskirts of Eastleigh, just outside Southampton.

Exclusively available to over-55s, Bishopstoke Park will provide over 170 independent and assisted living apartments, set in beautiful woodland with state-of-the art facilities. The development has been designed to give older people the opportunity to live independently and receive care by highly trained professionals should they need it. There will also be a 48room integrated care home on the site.

At the heart of Bishopstoke Park is the sensitively restored 19th-century Mount, a unique centrepiece that houses a luxurious swimming pool, spa and state-of-the-art wellness

centre. Alongside the striking Mount building is the contemporary village bistro, juice bar, delicatessen, general store and craft room.

Howard Nankivell, sales and marketing director for Anchor, said: “We are committed to providing the very best in independent luxury living for people who are a vital part of the UK’s growing silver economy and who are looking to enjoy later life.

“By blending charming restoration with cutting-edge architecture, we’ve created a retirement village that is inspired by its past and perfect for our residents’ future needs. Princess Alexandra’s visit marks an important milestone for us: the delivery of our first retirement village in 10 years and our first that has had such demand for luxurious hotel-style facilities.

“We are due to launch another retirement village in Yateley later this year, which will deliver another 110 homes for an increasingly discerning ageing population.”

Bishopstoke Park has a range of one- and two-bedroom apartments available, which have been rated both ‘Excellent’ in the BREEAM system and

level four in the Code for Sustainable Homes – providing a level of energy efficiency that will drastically reduce utility bills.

Apartments have fitted kitchens, master bedroom with direct access to the bathroom and rooms pre-wired for telephone, internet access and satellite television. Special features include walkin showers, easy-open windows, easyto-turn taps and power sockets set at an easy-to-reach height. Security includes smoke detectors, intruder alarms and CCTV monitoring of communal areas, and for additional peace of mind, there is a 24-hour call system.

The properties are set in extensive grounds at Bishopstoke Park, a mix of gardens, open spaces, barbeque and picnic areas as well as a woodland area complete with Trim Trail for keen joggers and walkers.

A two-bedroom show apartment is available to view. Current availability sees prices start at £258,000 for onebedroom apartments, and at £392,000 for two-bedroom apartments.

Find more at www.anchor.org.uk; 0808 274 1623

HRH Princess Alexandra unveils the plaque at Bishopstoke Park

The development combines heritage with luxury contemporary design

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The way ahead Clive Fenton of McCarthy & Stone explains how the retirement sector’s leading name continues to innovate on-site support that our traditional developments are known for, but they will be built to future-proof later living and are perfectly suited for those who wish to buy them. They will also be bigger than usual, around 1,000 sq ft or more, and have two bedrooms, more storage and car parking.

McCarthy & Stone chief, Clive Fenton

H

a ving sold some 1,677 homes last year, McCarthy & Stone qualifies as one of the UK’s top housebuilders.

That it specialises in just one sector– properties aimed at retirees – is testament to its dominance of this part of the housing market.

The company has the largest share of the owner-occupied retirement market, having built almost 50,000 apartments since it was founded in 1977, and currently has more than 160 developments under construction or for sale.

And since Clive Fenton joined as chief executive in February 2014, the company has not sat on its laurels. It has launched its Platinum Range for its Retirement Living (for the over-60s) and Assisted Living developments (for the over-70s), which includes enhanced internal and external specifications, together with a completely new brand, Ortus Homes, which will bring a new type of age-exclusive development to sought-after locations around the country for the 55+ market.

Furthermore, McCarthy & Stone has announced plans to invest £2bn over the next few years, which will see the company double in size and confirm its place as one the nation’s biggest housebuilders.

Following the launch of the company’s first two Ortus Homes schemes, in Solihull and Swanage, WhatHouse? met with Clive Fenton to find out more about McCarthy & Stone’s new product range and what homebuyers can expect to find at one of its new developments.

Hi, Clive. How does Ortus Homes differ from McCarthy & Stone’s traditional products?

Our Ortus Homes range will provide age-exclusive and high-quality contemporary apartments that are intelligently designed with stylish, modern interiors exclusively for the over 55s. They are designed to appeal to those people who want to downsize but perhaps aren’t quite ready for our core products. Apartments won’t give residents the communal areas or

What does the Ortus brand stand for in terms of lifestyle, location and specification?

The interest we’ve had already in Ortus has generally been from people in the 65 to 75 age range, though anyone 55 or over can buy one. Customers will typically still be very active and some will have other properties, perhaps overseas, and appreciate that they can ‘lock up and leave’ their Ortus property when they head elsewhere.

We’ve deliberately chosen to build them in sought-after, ‘feel-good’ locations where local amenities are within easy reach. McCarthy & Stone developments are usually within halfa-mile of amenities because many buyers need to walk or use public transport. With Ortus, purchasers will typically still have cars, so they don’t need to be quite so close to those amenities, so we’ve been able to choose from more locations and have provided more car parking.

Most properties will have private outdoor spaces or balconies and we will extend our in-house management service to Ortus, so it can look after the maintenance of the grounds and provide added peace of mind for our customers. It’s this management service that has helped us to retain the HBF’s five-star customer service rating for the last 10 years, and we’re delighted to be the only UK housebuilder to have achieved this.

How has research from the USA and Australia affected your choices for Ortus Homes?

The retirement property market in these two countries is quite different from the UK. In the USA, around 17% of people move to a retirement community, in Australia and New Zealand, around 12%. In the UK, that figure is just 1%. Most other developed countries have a much wider range of retirement housing than is offered in the UK. Our management team has travelled to the US to look at their developments and undertook three years of extensive research here in the UK. Attitudes are quite different here – people prefer a more intimate feel to where they live, as opposed to the extensive ‘village’ concept that exists in America.

We’re also seeing that the new generation of people reaching retirement age has a very different attitude to previous generations. They don’t feel old when they retire; they don’t want to be located away from the larger community; and they still want to travel and pursue a wealth of

interests. Some have benefited from a working lifetime that’s seen property prices soaring and generous pensions and they are able to enjoy a high quality of life now they are retired.

Have you found any distinctive trends in the retirement market?

In respect of the properties themselves, we’ve tried to reflect some of these trends by providing an impressive sense of arrival and upgrading the quality and specification of our developments across our product range, including larger apartments, new kitchens and bathrooms and more security, as well as offering utility rooms to de-clutter the kitchen, providing more living space and private outdoor space, and installing features such as underfloor heating. Home technology is also something we are looking at.

We’re already aware that the buying process for homes in later life can be longer than other parts of the property market and there’s a lot of family involvement in the decision. McCarthy & Stone’s popular Smart Move and removals service is also available to all Ortus customers.

Pension constraints have meant some people are forced to downsize in order to release equity, but of course they are sometimes reluctant to have to dispose of excess furniture and possessions so they need homes that still have plenty of places to store them.

It’s an ever-evolving market but with around 4.6 million people over 60 in Britain looking to make one more house move in their lifetime, we believe it’s one where Ortus Homes will thrive.

Find out more at ortushomes.co.uk; 0800 201 4847

Scarlet Oak in Solihull, West Midlands

Interior at Scarlet Oak

Shore House in Swanage, Dorset

Bewick Grange in Harrogate, North Yorkshire

32 retirement

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The future’s Green for Mrs Grant

First owner moves into her new home at Wiltshire 60+ scheme

D

e veloper Rangeford Holdings has announced the completion of the first homes at Wadswick Green, a new retirement village in Wiltshire, where the first residents are starting to move in.

Mrs Alison Grant is the first owner to move in, to a two-bedroom ‘Courtyard Apartment’ on Rowan Lane. Alison is joint owner of the brand new property with her three daughters and she is moving from a five-bedroom family home in Chippenham.

Her new home is located just five miles from her daughter Kate, who lives in Melksham. She plans to visit her mother often and make use of the development’s pool and spa during her visits.

“We love the vast open space with over 11,000 sq ft of beautiful gardens, ponds and spacious apartments with ultra-stylish design,” says Kate Grant. “The modern open-plan kitchens are ideal for entertaining and have particularly surpassed our expectations. My mother’s apartment is light and airy as it has 33ft of glass, with three floor-to-ceiling windows, and the smell of the new cedar wood

is gorgeous.”

For many older buyers, the move from a cherished family home can be an emotional one. But one of the most important benefits of a purpose-built retirement development is that residents have easy access to neighbours and friends, something the Grants considered very highly.

“Finding a home for mum where she can be actively involved in the village community has been of utmost importance to us as a family,” says Kate Grant. “She is already on friendly terms with her neighbours following a recent afternoon tea organised at nearby Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, and plans to take part in many of the events planned on-site, especially if they are related to food or cooking.

Despite the proximity of neighbours and plethora of activities on offer, residents can still maintain their privacy and independence, with many features specially included to make day-to-day life straightforward even for those with mobility issues.

“Motorised wheelchair access is a key requirement to provide my mother with her independence since

she suffered a stroke in 2012. We have shopped around and there is nothing else like Wadswick Green; the assisted living facility has thought of every detail and there is someone on call throughout the day and night should it be required.”

Wadswick Green will comprise of 248 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments (priced from £294,000, £375,000 and £520,000 respectively) set over 25 acres. The site has a village pavilion, pool, gym, holistic spa, salon, bar and a restaurant/gastro-pub – facilities one might expect from a five-star hotel.

Find out more at www.wadswickgreen.co.uk; 0800 092 9030

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It’s a quick and easy process that you can carry out online or over the phone.

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A new lease of life

Owning your property is not the only way to benefit from developments dedicated to later living, as Peter Girling of Girlings Retirement Rentals explains independent customer. For those who are seeking a sense of community, the residents’ lounge and communal gardens provide ideal opportunities to meet other residents in a social setting.

Your ‘Diamond Collection’ properties sound more like luxury hotels. Are they a niche, or becoming the standard of choice for more retirees? minded people helps to alleviate feelings of loneliness and gives the resident a new lease of life.

Do you think people generally have misconceptions about ‘retirement property’?

It is true to say that there remains a misconception surrounding ‘retirement property’ with many people still thinking that it is more akin to a care home with no privacy for the residents. Purpose-built retirement developments offer an independent lifestyle: the apartments are all selfcontained with their own front door so lend themselves to the active,

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What are the main priorities of your customers?

Our customers have many and varied requirements. We are seeing an increase in people downsizing and selling their property outright, taking the capital and investing it to fund their retirement. The ‘younger’ end of the retirement market is attracted by the ‘lock-up-and-leave’ element and the security this delivers, particularly when taking holidays abroad, whereas the ‘older’ end is attracted by the idea of a ready-made community, of particular importance for those who are living alone. The companionship that comes from living amongst like-

ng retire tti

What kind of customers do you get at Girlings Retirement Rentals?

We receive enquiries from a wide range of customers who have different requirements: those who are looking to downsize to free up capital to fund their retirement; those who are renting already but wish to benefit from the security of tenure that we can offer through the assured tenancy and those whose family have moved away and they wish to move nearer to them without the aggravation that comes from purchasing a property in later life. We also receive enquiries from people who live overseas and are wishing to relocate to the UK.

The ‘hotel’ style of retirement living is not new – such models are in existence overseas, in the USA for instance. They are now also more widespread in the UK, with several developments across the south of England offering a hotelstyle service to their residents. In the past, developers of high-end retirement property have focused primarily on sales to fulfil their requirement for short-term capital return; however we are seeing some developers who recognise that demand for rentals is increasing among the older market and they are looking to fulfil this potential by offering properties for rent as well as sale, with rents commensurate with capital value.

It can be an emotional time, so how do you help people deciding to move to one of your properties?

Moving home at any age can be a stressful and emotional time and this is why we treat each enquiry as if it is our first. We have a team who are highly experienced and are trained to deal with the older market and the different nature of problems which may occur. The security which comes from renting on an assured tenancy gives comfort to our customers and the peace of mind that this brings for the family is incalculable. The message we like to give to our customers is that you are never too old to consider a move and that renting in retirement can and does bring with it a new lease of life, free from the worries of home-ownership and its associated maintenance. We hear regularly from tenants who have rented a retirement property with us and wish that they had taken the decision to do so much earlier on.

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armchair gardener

37

Coco cabana: Rattan domed roof gazebo with removable beds and table, £5,355, www.whitestores.co.uk Citric acid: Lime green retro garden chair, £45, www.rigbyandmac.com

In the black: Polyethylene Raviolo armchair designed by Ron Arad in collaboration with Magis, £396, www.S design55online.co.uk

Swing low...: Aluminium and copper outdoor swing with ‘floating’ sofa, £5,500, www.touchedinteriors.co.uk

All-rounder: Luxurious outdoor seat finished in Gmelina wood, £13,800, www.touchedinteriors.co.uk

Sunny side up: Ergonomic metal sunbed designed by Karim Rashid, £930, www.furnish.co.uk

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M

...then Richenda Oldham will begin, as she checks out the latest outdoor seating designs to suit every budget

ake no mistake, outdoor seating just gets more and more cutting edge, with top industrial designers such as Ron Arad and Karim Rashid creating striking pieces that are functional yet highly collectible in their own right. Their designs demonstrate that it is possible to fuse efficiency and appeal in a single item.

The days of plastic chairs and

wooden “pub” benches are longsince gone – replaced instead with a sophisticated choice of materials and eye-catching designs. Sofas and loungers, capacious armchairs with deep seats and wide arms, pouffes, mini gazebos and swinging chairs all help bring interior living space into the garden.

Fruit-shaped or dome-topped wicker gazebos, offer a cosy retreat either as a day bed, with plenty of scatter cushions, or as a mini outdoor

‘bedroom’, complete with curtains, to create a shady boudoir.

Hanging seats offer a casual, but distinctive form of fun seating that will add to the variety of the look being created. They can be hung from trees or come with their own hanging frame, which means they can be placed anywhere – from the lawn to the terrace.

This explosion of style is a result of industrial design and art becoming synonymous with each other, which has opened up many exciting and sometimes provocative possibilities, with furniture acquiring a sculptural identity.

An assortment of materials and textures are being used, with the emphasis on hardwearing, weather-resistant textiles that look like interior fabrics.

WICKER Wicker is a hugely popular choice and refers to the technique of weaving materials such as rattan, willow, bamboo, straw, rush and synthetic resin. Rattan is a type of vine, which is very durable, eco-friendly, lightweight and easy to maintain – perfect for outdoor use. Synthetic wicker furniture is weatherproof and exceptionally hardwearing. Make sure that furniture is UV stabilised, which protects it from cracking or snapping.

METAL A number of different metals are used to make garden furniture. Aluminium is a favourite, as it is light, but strong and durable. Patinated zinc has

industrial appeal and ages well, but is also long lasting. Wrought iron furniture is a heavyweight option, so it’s unlikely to blow away, which means it can be safely left out.

However, it can rust if not treated with a preventative coating. Steel furniture can also rust, but is not as heavy as wrought iron.

WOOD The perfect wood for outdoor use, and therefore a top choice, is teak. It contains natural oils and chemicals that prevent it from rotting. Other choices include keruing and eucalyptus. All these woods are easy to maintain – they can either be allowed to acquire a silvery patina or sanded and re-oiled.

38 sussex

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

Save £000s in stamp duty on new homes in Brighton Taylor Wimpey paying up to £21,500 on behalf of buyers at Royal Alexandra Quarter

S

a ving up for a deposit and the legal and removals costs of buying a home is enough of a burden for many house-hunters – paying the government thousands of pounds in stamp duty on top is rubbing salt into the wound! But Taylor Wimpey is offering to pay the stamp duty on selected plots at its Royal Alexandra Quarter development in Brighton for a limited time – a boost of up to £21,500 for some lucky homebuyers.

The generous offer applies to selected apartments at the scheme, all of which have easy access to the landscaped communal gardens of the former hospital site.

Sarah Pasco, regional sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey, says: “When it comes to choosing a new home, the high price of stamp duty can add a huge chunk to the overall

cost of moving. But here at Royal Alexandra Quarter we’re lightening the load significantly by paying the stamp duty on selected luxury apartments, with easy communal garden access.

“Our amazing stamp duty incentive gives would-be purchasers yet another reason to choose a beautiful apartment at this in-demand development. But if house-hunters want a glorious garden access apartment – that’s plots 76, 84 and 92 – they will have to move quickly to snap up this deal, before someone else beats them to it!”

One of the properties open to this special offer is the two-bedroom Plot 76 apartment, priced at £630,000. This refurbished ground-floor apartment offers a superb space for entertaining, with its open-plan living/kitchen/ dining area and private terrace. It comes with two double bedrooms, one of which has an en suite shower room.

Allocated parking is also provided in the price. Elsewhere on the development, two-bedroom apartments are available from £525,000.

Part of the development has involved the careful restoration of the historic hospital building’s front facade, together with a collection of brand new apartments, which have been designed to reflect the surrounding area.

The development is just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s main shopping district and less than a mile from the seafront. Brighton railway station is just over half a mile away, offering frequent commuter services to London Bridge and London Victoria.

House-hunters can organise a visit to Royal Alexandra Quarter from Thursday to Monday, 10.00am to 5.00pm.

Find out more at www.taylorwimpey.co.uk; 01273 964268

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The Science Behind our Heaters Sunflow heaters are built from the very best coldrolled steel and have a 10 year guarantee.

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40 sussex

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A life of luxury

Coopersfield, West Ashling, Chichester • £1.75m Coopersfield is a substantial four-bedroom detached house which has undergone a comprehensive program of refurbishment and modernisation. The result of this is a stunning property of great character combined with state-of-the-art equipment and the latest contemporary features.

Set in 1.5 acres of grounds, Coopersfield is located between popular Bosham and the South Downs. The magnificent Reception Hall is one of the highlights here, with superb large floor tiles that extend throughout the ground floor and high ceilings and tall windows that provide a light and airy ambiance.

with Humberts T

his month, Michael Cornish of Humberts talks us through his three favourite luxury properties currently on the market in Sussex.

Contact Humberts on 01243 531010 (Chichester) and 01342 326326 (East Grinstead); www.humberts.com

The Cottage, West Ashling, Chichester • £1.25m The Cottage is a beautifully presented three-bedroom detached Grade II listed home in the heart of West Ashling, set within attractive gardens of about 0.42 of an acre. Understood to date back to the 16th century, the property retains great character combined with modern improvements, such as its stylish bespoke fitted kitchen.

The living room here is of a generous size for a property of this age and features an open fireplace and exposed timber beams. The kitchen has been fully renovated and boasts bespoke wooden fitted units with polished granite worktops, an electric range-style cooker and a walk-in larder cupboard. The property also includes a good sized cellar, ideal for providing additional storage.

Forest Row, East Grinstead • £2.55m

This Grade II listed five-bedroom farmhouse is L-shaped, with a red brick southern elevation with grey headers and ‘diamond’ tile hanging. The northern elevation, meanwhile, features exposed timbers with white-painted brick and plaster infill. Inside, the property has many fine period features including oak plank doors, oak floors, exposed timbers and unusually high ceilings

for a house of this age.

The main part of the property is to the west of the spacious entrance hall, where there is an elegant and spacious drawing room, which boasts a handsome inglenook fireplace with a woodburning stove. This is a fantastic equestrian property with 10 loose boxes, an outdoor school and groom’s accommodation in a converted granary.

42 surrey

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Living the life of Riley in Surrey If living the high life is your style, what about a move to a new luxury development on the Surrey Downs, asks Tilly Rubens…

D

e veloper Millgate has launched a new collection of seven stylish apartments and a fivebedroom executive house in the Surrey village of Kingswood.

“The area surrounding Kingsworthy has lifestyle attractions in abundance, making it a highly sought after place to live,” says sales and marketing director Jonathon Cranley. “We know our buyers are discerning individuals who appreciate quality, style and good living.”

Strong security features are an integral part of the scheme, with electronic gates at the main entrance, a video-entry system, intruder

alarm and external lighting. Each apartment has its own underground garage with electronically operated doors.

The development is set in secluded private grounds up a peaceful treelined avenue. The area is characterised by green belt woodland and farmland.

The gardens at Kingsworthy have been designed by an award-winning Chelsea Flower Show landscape designer and include extensive lawns, low-maintenance planting and mature trees and shrubs.

Bathrooms are equipped with white Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware with contemporary fittings and bespoke vanity units. Each property has a

dressing room with good storage and hanging space. There is underfloor heating throughout the ground and first-floor properties.

The kitchens feature island units and bespoke hand-painted cabinets fitted with granite worktops.

They come complete with a full range of Siemens kitchen appliances including larder fridge and wine cooler, if you fancy a bit of home entertaining.

Alternatively, you could sample the fine wines at local vineyard Denbies or check out the popular local watering hole at the Kingswood Arms, situated in Kingswood.

The local village has a number

of independent shops for everyday shopping but you will need to travel to the town of Banstead, a few miles away, for a more extensive range of shops, including Waitrose.

If you fancy a flutter on the horses, the new development is close to the world famous racecourse at Epsom Downs. Or you could tee off for a round of golf at one of three local courses including Surrey Downs and Kingswood.

Transport-wise, the nearest train station is at Kingswood, which is within walking distance of the new development. The journey into central London takes 40 minutes with regular services into London Bridge, making

the properties commuter friendly. By car, Kingsworthy is a few minutes from junction 8 of the M25, and Gatwick Airport is just ten miles away.

Kingsworthy comprises seven two- and three-bedroom apartments with one five-bedroom family home, presently doubling as the show house.

Visitors can visit this show house seven days a week from 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Prices at Kingsworthy start from £700,000 for a two-bedroom apartment rising to £1.9million for the five-bedroom luxury house.

Find out more at www.millgatehomes.co.uk; 0118 934 3344

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WE CAN GET YOU MOVING Mastermove helps you buy at Kingston Riverside while we take the hard work out of selling your existing property, by arranging valuations, appointing an estate agent, taking care of all the paperwork and even paying the agents’ fees.

Mastermove helps you move into your brand new Redrow home in three simple steps: Step 1 - Choose your Redrow home at Kingston Riverside and register on Mastermove.

Step 2 - We’ll appoint an estate agent to market your property.

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44 surrey

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Camberley – a buyer’s guide with Waterfords INTRODUCTION

Darren Walter, director of Waterfords in Camberley, tells us about the growing demand to live in the town.

Camberley is a medium-sized town located close to the borders of Hampshire and Berkshire. The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where Princes William and Harry trained, is situated nearby and is one of the main reasons Camberley came to exist as it does today. Good schools, leisure facilities and strong commuter links continue to attract purchasers looking for a home with a prestigious Home Counties address among relaxed unspoiled surrounds with plenty of green space, parks and woodland. This is the solid foundation on which the Camberley property market will always have the luxury of retaining, and with Surrey Heath Borough Council unveiling a £310m investment plan for the town at the end of 2013, Camberley is a key investment area within Surrey right now.

LEISURE Camberley has a strong retail base at The Mall Shopping Centre, which has approximately 90 units. In 2008, a

new development called The Atrium was also completed, comprising apartments, a cinema, gym, bowling alley, shops, restaurants and cafes.

The town is also ideal for the avid golfer, with Pine Ridge and Camberley Heath only a few minutes’ drive from the town centre, and the A30 leading straight to Sunningdale and Wentworth golf courses, approximately six miles away.

The prestigious five-star Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa, training ground to the England Rugby team, is also located in Camberley, and boasts two award-winning restaurants.

SCHOOLS Camberley has a very strong family housing market with a good supply of typical four-bedroom, threebathroom properties on large plots with generous-sized gardens. These properties are in great demand due to the abundance of top ranking schools here, and many buyers move to the area and remain local for this very reason.

Popular infant schools include:

Crawley Ridge, Heather Ridge, Prior Heath. Then there is Ravenscote Junior School and Watchetts Junior School, following on to Collingwood, Tomlinscote and Kings International College secondary schools.

ACCESS Being located just off the M3 with easy access to the M4, M25, and A3 makes Camberley perfectly situated for London and several major business hubs. In fact, 28% of buyers in the area are now London overflow, and we anticipate this growing as the town develops. Currently, the train link here does not go direct to London Waterloo but nearby Farnborough and Brookwood have regular services in just over 30 minutes.

LOCAL HOUSING MARKET Much of the area within walking distance of the town centre is characterised by large late 19th- and 20th-century properties, and while some have been converted into

Search thousands of brand new homes on the UK’s leading new homes portal.

No.1 whathouse.com/new-homes The UK’s leading new homes portal

apartments, others remain as beautiful detached Victorian/Edwardian mansions. However, Camberley as a whole appeals to a wide audience due to its diverse range of properties; from oneand two-bedroom luxury apartments in Elmhurst Court and small Victorian terraced homes right up to five-bedroom executive houses on the most sought after and prestigious roads such as Park Avenue, Crawley Hill, Tekels Avenue and Brackendale.

HOUSE PRICES A typical three-bedroom semidetached property in Camberley would currently be valued at approximately £350,000, with a four-bedroom detached house achieving anything from £450,000 to £650,000. The average sold price for a house in Camberley is £422,000 and the average rent is £1,465 per month.

Find out more at www.waterfords.co.uk; 01276 66566

46 hampshire

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

Jump to it!

Plots 1,2 and 3 at Steeplechase Rise

The launch of Foreman Homes’ Steeplechase Rise is sure to have homebuyers champing at the bit

L

a unched at the end of May and comprising just 23 new homes, the Steeplechase Rise development is located at the southeastern edge of

the bustling, historic market town of Andover. These family homes are bordered by mature properties and paddock land in an area known locally as Picket Twenty.

These three- and four-bedroom homes are situated on generous plots with a patio and shed, off-street parking or an integrated/attached garage. They combine traditional

features and materials with a modern twist, central heating and double glazing as standard and the kind of flexible, open-plan layouts that modern family life requires.

Inside, house-hunters will find luxury fitted kitchens with a range of integrated appliances (including a microwave and dishwasher on selected plots), contemporary bathrooms and en suites and a number of stylish details, such as recessed spotlights and chrome door furniture.

Andover’s central location in the south of England, reflected in its colourful heritage as a major staging post on the London/Exeter route, still makes it wellconnected town for local businesses and its citizens. The M3 is only a quarter of

an hour away and Andover train station is just three miles from Steeplechase Rise, with regular services to Basingstoke (under 20 minutes), Southampton (under an hour) and London Waterloo (under 75 minutes).

The town has an excellent mix of high street brands and independent stores alongside pubs, restaurants and galleries.

Picket Twenty has great local community facilities and leisure activities, with a new school, shops, a nursery and a community centre. An ‘urban park’ is planned that would provide seven football pitches, a cricket pitch, tennis court and public open spaces.

Find out more about the latest availability and prices at www.foremanhomes.co.uk; 0845 180 1282

★★★★★

From a five star builder

K

– OK RO B S ER

OOM HOME 4 BEDR – FR OM

34

5

4 bedroom homes from

£ 424,995! at time of print

in partnership with

Off Greenway Lane, Budleigh Salterton, Devon EX9 6SL Open Thursday to Monday, 10am – 5pm For more information: 01395 444434 horizon@cavannahomes.co.uk

www.cavannahomes.co.uk

£4

9 ,9

3 & 4 bedroom new homes Greenway Lane EX9 6SL

TH E

Plots 22 and 23 at the development

Available on this site

AUCTION

Five Day Sale - 149 Lots 15 June - Essex and North & East London 16 June - Kent & SE London 17 June - West Country 18 June - Sussex & Surrey 19 June - Hampshire & Isle of Wight

Sussex & Surrey Lots - Thursday, 18 June at the The Hilton Brighton Metropole - commencing 11am

A range of Sussex & Surrey Lots including:Rattle Road

Ordnance Survey©Crown Copyright (2014). All Rights Reserved.

25m 50m 75m Licence Number LIG1016. Plans are for location purposes only.

0m

Ordnance Survey © Crown Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Licence number 100022432. Plotted Scale - 1:1428

Semi-detached cottage in 5 acres Guide: £600,000+ epc:d

Two bedroom flat for investment or occupation Guide: £190-200,000 epc:d

Guides are provided as an indication of each Seller’s minimum expectation. They are not necessarily figures which a property will sell for and may change at any time prior to Auction.

Unless stated otherwise, each Lot will be offered subject to a reserve (a figure below which the Auctioneer cannot sell the Lot during the Auction).

We expect the reserve will be set within the guide range or no more than 10% above a single figure guide. Please check our website regularly at cliveemson.co.uk, or call 01273 571853, in order to stay fully informed.

HURSTPIERPOINT

Guides: £70-75,000 £30-35,000 epc:c/tbc

Land Between 27-31 Rattle Road, Westham, Pevensey, East Sussex

STORRINGTON

Two flats in seafront location to be sold separately

Paddock with planning for barn Guide: £50-55,000

Residential Investment Guide: £300,000+ epc:tbc

Brown Loaf Farm N Drove Road

Dowland Road

0m

50m

100m

150m

Ordnance Survey©Crown Copyright (2014). All Rights Reserved.

Licence Number LIG1016. Plans are for location purposes only.

Ordnance Survey © Crown Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Licence number 100022432. Plotted Scale - 1:2922

Land and yard with potential Guide: £130-150,000

BEXHILL-ON-SEA

WESTHAM

27

BRIGHTON

BRIGHTON

ST LEONARDS

WARLINGHAM

N

BOGNOR REGIS

31

Leasehold block with ground floor commercial premises Guide: £90-110,000 epc:tbc

Commercial block with planning for conversion of upper parts Guide: £550,000+ epc:f

Vacant commercial premises with potential Guide: £90-95,000 epc:tbc

Catalogue Hotline LAND & PROPERTY AUCTIONEERS

View Lots and download catalogues via our website cliveemson.co.uk

(60p per minute at all times)

09068 517744 Follow us on:

48 hampshire

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

BentleyCourt

Property of the month with Strutt & Parker in Chichester Prices from Artist’s impression. For illustrative purposes only

£575,000 Sat Nav: W7 3ST

UXBRIDGE ROAD

Bentley Court is a new development of nine, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes tucked away in a gated court located off Uxbridge Road in Hanwell, Ealing. All the properties have private gardens and parking making this a fabulous environment for London living.

The development is located next to St Mellitus Church, an imposing Gothic style building of the The beautifully crafted bespoke kitchen, meanwhile, boasts Edwardian a Corian period situated in the heart of Hanwell. central island unit, a range of quality

For more information please contact Lea Valley Homes

S

T | 01923 251799

p innakers is an exceptional bedrooms have sea views, access detached two-storey to decking and en suite facilities, property on Hayling Island, while one has a beach shower. Set to boasting stunning views of the side of the property, a staircase appliances and a substantial dining Chichester Harbour and the provides access toWcantilevered first- area.

E | sales@leavalleyhomes.co.uk | leavalleyhomes.co.uk South Downs. floor accommodation, which is centred Wittering Road is situated at the On the market with a guide price of upon a large open-plan entertaining south-eastern end of Hayling Island, at £1.5m, this property received the RIBA area designed to take advantage of the the mouth of Chichester Harbour and South/South East Downland Award stunning views. close to Hayling Island Sailing Club in 2012 for its stunning design and The sitting area features full-height and Sparkes Marina. construction. glazing to the south and east, an Find out more at On the ground floor, all three open fireplace and a covered balcony. www.struttandparker.com; 01243 832600

Specification includes Paula Rosa Manhattan kitchens with granite worktop, integrated AEG appliances, flooring throughout, contemporary fully tiled bathrooms and en-suites.

Eight unique Grade II listed 2, 3 and 4 bedroom barns converted to a high specification, retaining many original features.

All properties have private gardens with plots 1, 2 and 8 having the added benefit of a paddock.

Prices from £650,000

‘The Barns’ Merton Grange is situated in an idyllic rural location on the edge of Gamlingay in South Cambridgeshire. The approach is via a private drive with far reaching views either side across fields.

Specification includes:  Fully fitted kitchens with integrated appliances including range cooker and wine cooler  Flooring throughout  Contemporary fully tiled bathrooms & en-suites, including vanity units and heated towel rails  Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished handles.

Tel : 01923 251799

Email: sales@leavalleyhomes.co.uk www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk

1 NG E VI N I L ZO RY

XU U L

THE FINEST OF THE FINEST

EXCLUSIVE

PARLIAMENT

reach

FINAL PHASE

APARTMENTS

southside

THE ARC TOWER BRIDGE SE1

LONDON BRIDGE SE1

Authentic penthouse view

BLACK PRINCE ROAD • LAMBETH SE11

TANNER STREET • BERMONDSEY SE1

Few 2 bedroom luxury apartments and a single 3 bedroom duplex remaining at this highly successful development, located within Vauxhall Gardens Conservation Area.

This dynamic development is located around 60 metres from Tower Bridge and a stone’s throw from London Bridge, its transport hub and The Shard.

• Exclusive specifications including kitchens by Manhattan.

• Each with balcony or terrace.

• Concierge, CCTV security and coomunal gardens.

• 10 minutes walk from Northern and Victoria tube connections.

IMMEDIATE OCCUPATION WITH PRICES FROM

£625,000

The best has been saved for last at this highly acclaimed South Bank development, 5 minutes walk from both Southwark and London Bridge tube connections.

• One singularly stunning 2 bedroom apartment remaining.

• Over 1140 sqft of luxurious living space.

• Large terrace overlooking podium garden.

• Exclusively finished and equipped including Smeg integrated kitchen appliances.

COMPLETION MID 2015

£850,000

VIEWING STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT

PRESENTED BY

UNION STREET • SOUTH BANK SE1

• A fabulous 2 bedroom duplex penthouse.

• 1493 sqft of high end living space with 10th floor balcony and 11th floor terrace.

• Extended void ceiling over dining area.

• Superb views across City skyline.

A UNIQUE ACQUISITION AVAILABLE NOW

020 7781 7781 sales@london-residences.com

£1,650,000

We’re open for business, whatever the climate.

For the last 40 years, through all market conditions, we’ve consistently lent to residential property developers. So if you’re looking for funds, you won’t find a more experienced, flexible and reliable business partner.

To find out how we can help your development, please call Close Brothers Property Finance on 020 7655 3655 or visit closepropertyfinance.com

I

Close Brothers Modern Merchant Banking

investment 51

More news and interviews at whathouse.com/news

Rental income: beware of false profits Finance expert Lawrence Watts looks at how to maximise your profits from your buy-to-let portfolio

T

h is is an interesting time to be a landlord. Rents have increased; the South East has enjoyed a property boom over the last couple of years, which is now spreading north. However, given the growth of rented property in the private sector, it’s no surprise there are rumours of restrictions on mortgage interest relief for landlords. These restrictions, on top of possible rent caps, could punch a hole in the profitability of any portfolio.

It’s also no coincidence that Panorama aired a story of the billions in housing benefits paid to (bad) private landlords. Knocking landlords

is not new. There is also an argument that property prices are inflated by favourable tax treatment and you have to ask yourself, where is the fairness that allows a landlord tax relief on mortgage interest, but not a first-time buyer? I don’t wish to be the harbinger of bad news, but something’s got to give and landlords are easy targets.

Landlords have done well (by and large), but what I think we see in the UK is a chimera of increasing wealth, often via property, on the back of quantitative easing and very low interest rates. At present, property is a good investment, but if any government actually frees up planning to build more homes, or decides that further regulation is appropriate, both yield and capital appreciation could be affected.

So, it’s worth reviewing your property portfolio and considering how it can be made more productive. Are there properties that you should dump and move on? Could you convert a property into, say, a short-let property, not unlike a hotel, and increase what you are earning per night?

BACK TO BASICS Buy-to-let income is investment income, not earned income, and tax is paid on rental income, less expenses.

Allowable expenses are things you need to spend money on in the dayto-day running of the property, like: • Letting agents’ fees

any costs that you pay, that a tenant would usually pay, e.g. Council Tax. If you are letting more than one property, you will need to consolidate income and expenses for a final profit figure.

• Legal fees for lets of a year or less, or for renewing a lease for less than 50 years

LONG-TERM IMPROVEMENTS

• Accountants’ fees • Buildings and contents insurance • Interest on property loans • Maintenance and repairs to the property (but not improvements) • Utility bills, like gas, water and electricity that you pay • Rent, ground rent, service charges • Council Tax • Services you pay for, like cleaning or gardening • Other direct costs of letting the property, such as phone calls, stationery and advertising

FURNISHED RESIDENTIALS LETTINGS You can claim 10% of the net rent as a ‘wear and tear allowance’ for furniture and equipment you provide with a furnished residential letting.

Net rent is the rent received, less

Improvements (apart from decorating for wear and tear) are not claimable.

So, for instance, a broken window pane could be claimed, but not double glazing, because it is a fixed and permanent part of the property.

When you come to sell your property, those costs can be offset, before you work out any capital gains.

Other costs that can be used to offset capital gains are estate agent fees, improvements that you made to the property, such as an extension, legal expenses etc.

When selling, a married couple can also use both capital gains allowances.

It’s probably best to use an accountant at outset and, after a few years, you could complete the selfassessment forms yourself. HMRC website has all the major points that you need to consider.

STRATEGIES You can also use tax-reducing strategies, such as pension payments.

(Remember, if you are under 75 and even if you have no income, you can contribute £3,600 gross per annum and receive a tax break of £720 – it’s a great way for parents and grandparents to gift money to under18s). If you have a mixture of earned income and investment income, you can make pension payments to the level of your earned income, subject to a £40,000 gross limit per annum (there are some carry forward provisions, but you should take advice). So, it’s possible to write down a fair bit of tax.

You can also invest in Venture Capital Trusts and Enterprise Investment Schemes and receive a 30% tax break, even on investment income. So, for instance, if your net profit from buy-to-let rent is £30,000, by investing £100,000 in the above schemes, you can reclaim your tax, in full.

As ever, take professional advice, but the most important point to make is that a property portfolio is like any other business – it requires constant review.

Lawrence Watts is a chartered financial planner with HBB. Contact 07982 235543, 01727 862477

52 mortgages

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Mortgages now the hardest financial product to switch Consumers find switching insurance and even mobile phone provider much more straightforward than switching their mortgage, says Nick Parkhouse

C

hanges to the way that home loans are underwritten introduced in 2014 have resulted in mortgages becoming the hardest financial product to switch. That is the outcome of new research by a leading internet financial comparison site, which has found that only just over half of borrowers said that the remortgage process was ‘easy’.

A new survey from price comparison website Gocompare.com has found that mortgages are the hardest financial product to switch. Just 59% of people described the remortgage process as ‘easy’, a fall from 70% in July 2014 when the survey was last carried out.

The research found that 90% of consumers who switched home insurance providers in the last

12 months found the process easy, followed by 88% for car insurance and 82% for credit cards.

Meanwhile, 72% of people found changing broadband provider easy while 70% said the same about switching their mobile phone company.

The research suggests that the Mortgage Market Review (MMR), introduced in April 2014, is continuing to make it difficult for consumers to switch their mortgage provider.

Changes to the way that home loans are underwritten have made it tougher to get a new mortgage and the survey suggests that borrowers are finding the remortgage process increasingly difficult.

“It is clear from our research that consumers have taken issue with the changes to the mortgage application process introduced 12

months ago. To put it into context, the recent improvements in bank account and energy switching have failed to register at all on this survey, yet mortgages have slipped 11 percentage points,” said Matt Sanders from Gocompare.com. “It would be fair to say that mortgages were never the most straightforward product to switch, but MMR has added an extra layer of complexity and in many cases led to delays in the process, which just frustrates people further.

“Even though applying for a mortgage is more complicated, there has never been a better time to shop around and with record low interest rates, the hassle of going through the checks and balances might be worth it to save some cash every month.”

Found a house you love?

We’ll find you the perfect mortgage to match.

We specialise in all types of mortgages including: • New Home purchases • First time buyers • Remortgaging • House Moves

• Self employed • Landlords • Buy to Let • Specialised bespoke options

whathouse.com/mortgages Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is a registered company in England & Wales under company number 06334944. Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Home Counties Mortgage Protection and Finance Ltd who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. There may be occasions where we may charge a fee which will depend on your circumstances. In these situations we will inform you at an early stage, the fee typically being no more that 1% of the total loan amount.YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED UPON IT. The actual premium for protection products will depend upon individual circumstances. Please ask us for a specific customer illustration be contacting us by completing our enquiry form or telephone the office directly. *The above mentioned products are not regulated by the FCA and accordingly the protection normally afforded does not apply.

auctions 53

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Allsop launches online-only auction for new build homes in West Drayton Leading auctioneer hails its “revolutionary” way of buying a brand new home

A

uction specialist Allsop is launching the country’s first ever online-only auction for new build homes. The company describes its new system as “revolutionary” and says it is “set to change the landscape of off-plan and new build purchasing across the globe”.

The system will be launched at the auction of Phase 2 of Clearview Homes’ West Drayton Waterside development on Thursday 11 June.

Bidding will open at 10.00am on Wednesday 10 June with bids starting to close from 10.05am on Thursday 11th June. All bidders will participate in the auction in an identical way, can watch live as bids are placed and will enter an entirely fair market place.

According to Gary Murphy, residential auction partner at Allsop, this new service “provides a superior route of sale for new properties and will co-exist harmoniously alongside our traditional ballroom auctions. We identified a niche specifically in the

new build market and felt strongly that there should be a simpler, more transparent, fair, convenient and certain way of investing in new homes.”

A crucial feature of this new concept is the transparency of the process, which allows investors, wherever they are in the world, to watch the entire selling process evolve in front of their eyes, with absolutely zero risk of gazumping or gazundering.

Buyers will see the prices being set for the properties and will be party to the exact incremental increases in bidding, which are usually withheld in the traditional buying process.

West Drayton Waterside is a canalside development from Clearview Homes. Aside from the pleasant location by the Grand Union Canal, many investors will be attracted by the potential of West Drayton to benefit from the Crossrail effect, in terms of both demand for homes there and possible capital growth.

The properties are within a five-

minute walk of West Drayton rail station, where Crossrail services will begin from 2019, providing highspeed access to locations including Paddington, the West End, Liverpool Street, Canary Wharf and Heathrow.

Phase 1 of West Drayton Waterside sold out over a single weekend, so expectations are high that the 36 leasehold apartments available in Phase 2 at the auction will be in strong demand. The properties are set within a private gated community, with allocated parking, and most of them have a private garden or balcony.

As with traditional property auctions, all sales are legally binding at the fall of the gavel and solicitor details, bidder identities and bidder security payments are gathered prior to auction at the registration stage.

Minimum bidding increments and the reserve price will be preset and regulated by the auctioneer, and contracts will be signed on the behalf of investors by Allsop representatives.

All participants must complete

registration in advance of bidding and should allow ample time for verification of their ID by their UK solicitors before the auction.

Clearview Homes’ chief executive Stephen Murphy is delighted that his company are the first in the UK to sell a new build development this way. He says: “When presented with the opportunity to be the first developers, we didn’t hesitate. It is the perfect platform for our product, which we believe will appeal to investors not just locally but nationally and even internationally.

“We know for sure that we will make sales on the day and achieve the best possible price and have absolute trust in the Allsop team and expertise to execute the auction in a fair and efficient manner. We feel sure that this will be the future and are excited to be a part of it.”

Find out more about the auction at https://onlineauction.allsop.co.uk and more about West Drayton Riverside at www.westdraytonwaterside.co.uk; 020 7344 2665

54 buy-to-let

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12 things you need to know as a first-time landlord

Don’t jump into property investment without reading Tilly Rubens’s top tips what is included in their management agreement.

5 THINK THROUGH WHAT YOU WILL ALLOW YOUR TENANT TO DO (OR NOT DO) IN THE PROPERTY Some tenants may want to bring a pet with them to the property or run a small business from home. If you are worried about a pet causing damage to the property, then you need to put a clause into the agreement prohibiting animals or stating one named animal will be allowed. If you do not want the tenant smoking inside the property, your tenancy agreement must clearly say so.

6 TENANCY DEPOSIT LEGISLATION If you take a deposit from a tenant, you must ensure that it complies with the tenancy deposit legislation.

Otherwise, you could end up being ordered by a court to pay the tenant compensation and have difficulty evicting them at the end of the tenancy. As a landlord, you must ensure that you put the tenant’s deposit into a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receiving the deposit. You must also ensure you provide the tenant with specified information about the scheme (called prescribed information).

7 INVENTORY CHECK-IN

T

a king the first steps into the world of rented property can be a daunting task for the novice landlord. There seems to be so much bureaucracy and regulations to comply with and that is before you have even found a tenant. Our no-nonsense guide to renting out a property should ease you over the first hurdle and take away some of the stresses of starting out as a landlord.

1 HOW WILL I FIND MY TENANTS? You can either find tenants yourself by advertising in the local paper or by word of mouth. Alternatively, you can pay a fee to an estate or letting agent to find the tenants, carry out reference and financial checks, and deal with the deposit and other tenancy-related issues. The first option is obviously cheaper but you may prefer to rely on the experience of a letting agency if you are a first-time landlord.

2 WHAT TYPE OF TENANCY? Nearly all new tenancies in the private rented sector will be what are called Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements, which are often for an initial fixed term of six or 12 months.

Once the first six or 12 months have expired, the tenant can remain in occupation in the property on a month-by-month basis, under the same tenancy agreement, but it is now called a periodic agreement.

3 DO I NEED A SOLICITOR TO DRAW UP MY TENANCY AGGREEMENT? This depends on the complexity of the agreement and whether or not you use a letting agency. There are several websites that allow you to download a pro-forma agreement, or you can ask a solicitor to draw one up to cover your specific requirements. Check if the solicitor will be charging a fixed-fee

for the agreement or charging on an hourly basis. If you are using a letting agent to find tenants and manage the property for you, they will have their own standard agreement.

4 DO I WANT TO MANAGE THE PROPERTY MYSELF OR ASK AN ESTATE AGENT/LETTING AGENCY TO DO IT? You need to carefully consider whether you have the time to manage the property yourself and deal with issues such as the boiler breaking down or a tenant losing his key. If you live nearby, or are retired, you may prefer to deal with these day-to-day issues yourself, as it will certainly be cheaper. However, remember that dealing with maintenance issues can be time-consuming. The alternative is to pay an estate agent or letting company to manage the property for you. Check the level of their fees and

The condition that a property is left in at the end of the tenancy can be one of the main areas of contention between landlords and tenants.

Compile a detailed inventory list and report on the state of the property before the tenancy starts, which is agreed and signed by both landlord and tenant. This can save some of the headache further down the line.

Also take photographs showing the condition of the property before your tenant moves in. Most letting agents offer an inventory check-in service.

8 GAS SAFETY/OTHER REGULATIONS Remember that you are responsible for ensuring a gas safety check is carried out on all appliances and installations in the property, by a Corgi-registered gas engineer, once a year. A copy of the gas safety certificate needs to be given to the tenant. Your property will also need to comply with all other relevant standards, for example for furniture and fittings, and regulations/ licensing if it is let as a house in multiple-occupation (HMO).

9 REPAIRS OBLIGATIONS Also remember that you will be responsible for keeping the property in a good state of repair. There will be obligations about this contained in your tenancy agreement and also implied by law. If you fail to keep the property in a good state, your tenant can take you to court and the court can order you to carry out these repairs and also pay your tenant compensation.

10 RENT ISSUES Most rent is paid monthly in advance by standing order on a specific date and many landlords will in addition ask for a couple of months rent to be paid before the tenancy starts. You may also want to consider having a guarantor for the tenant, especially if they are a student or cannot provide good financial references. This is a person (often a parent if the tenant is young) who will agree to pay the rent in the event that the tenant defaults.

11 CHECK-OUT The check-out procedure at the end of the tenancy is a very important part of the process. Make sure you have clearly agreed a time and date for your tenant to move out. You will then need to carry out a comprehensive inventory check-out report. If you intend to make deductions from the tenant’s deposit, you must follow the procedure as set down in your particular tenancy deposit scheme and the relevant legislation.

12 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THINGS GO WRONG? Unfortunately, even with the best planning in the world, things still go wrong. Your tenant may stop paying the rent or a neighbour may complain they are holding noisy parties. Make sure all communications between you and your tenant are in writing, be it by email or letter, and keep copies. You may be able to ask your tenant to leave the property in certain circumstances, e.g. if he has broken the terms of the agreement or you have given him the correct notice. You will only be entitled to bring court proceedings to evict your tenant if you have served the proper possession notice first.

Do remember that landlord and tenant law can be complicated and each case is different. If you have specific queries about a landlord and tenant matter you may need to consult a specialist solicitor.

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