Liverpool Echo Big Property Guide - 21st January 2012

BIG

★★★★

ECHO

PROPERTY GUIDE

featuring properties in Liverpool, Wirral, Sefton, West Lancs and the North West

It’s got the lot

20

Six-bedroom home which is truly exceptional – Page 3

Sales manager Louise tells of her first home

Pages packed with homes for sale

Page 4

Kelly Hoppen’s style – at high street prices

Pages 4&5

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2 PROPERTY

Saturday, January 21, 2012

GUIDE

★★★★

... to buying

Around The Agents

Contents

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WIRRAL-BASED Karl Tatler Estate Agents & Lettings has won five top titles at the Estate Agency of the Year Awards.

One of the largest estate and lettings agents in Wirral, Karl Tatler was up against 5,000 other offices at the awards ceremony in London.

The company won three Gold awards for Best Small UK Agency, Best Small Northern Agency and Best Customer Service, Bronze for Best Training and Development, and Silver for Single Lettings Office Northern.

Judged by an independent panel of industry experts and overseen by the Property Ombudsman, these national awards are recognised as the benchmark for excellence throughout the estate agency industry.

Peter Knight, chairman of the event organisers Estate Agency Events, says: “At a time when the property market throughout much of the UK continues to struggle, choosing the right estate agent has never been more pertinent. The winners of these awards represent the top 10% of an industry where standards are hugely variable.

Consumers should have confidence that a firm displaying a winner’s medal from these awards is a cut above the rest.”

SUTTON Kersh was awarded ● silver as Best Small Estate Agency North England at The

Estate Agency of the Year Awards.

For the past nine years, the awards have become increasingly competitive with the standard of entries rising ever higher.

James Kersh, director at Sutton Kersh says: “We are absolutely delighted.

“Sutton Kersh started out as a family business with a single estate agency and chartered surveying practice in 1976 and has maintained its independence; something we take great pride in.”

●

WHAT a year it has been for Abode Crosby.

After opening its doors only nine months ago it has won an award as Best Property Newcomer.

Director Peter Foxcroft says: “We are all delighted; to win such a prestigious award after only nine months is amazing. The other agent up for the award had the full year!”

In its short first term Abode received more than 150 sales instructions, and now manages in

ON TOP: Karl Tatler Estate Agents branch managers Clare Goodwin (Moreton), Dave Seed (Lettings), Karl Tatler, Sue Dermott (Greasby), Shaun Carlton (West Kirby) and Rod Waldron (Heswall) excess of 200 rental properties.

Most customers cited the company’s modern approach, customer service, and experience in property as the reasons for choosing Abode.

Director Peter Foxcroft confirmed ‘the response from the local community has exceeded all expectations’.

Abode now employs a total of 15 staff and has already acquired second premises. The success in Crosby has brought forward their expansion plans and it hopes to be on every city high street within the next two years.

●

LIVERPOOL’S St Paul’s Square residential development has defied market conditions by completing the sale of its last unit in the city centre’s sought-after commercial district.

Launched by English Cities Fund, the residential scheme was one of the first phases of the larger St Paul’s Square development and features 50 high-specification one and two bedroom apartments.

Pauline Sangster, Sales and Marketing Manager for the development, says: “St Paul’s Square is an example of Muse Development’s commitment to

creating the very best developments in prime locations.

The development’s sales success shows that market conditions will not dictate how well a property sells if it’s a high quality product in a good location.”

Sale prices ranged from £95,950 for a one-bedroom apartment to £170,000 for a larger two-bedroom residence.

Martyn Green, director at marketing agent Jones Lang LaSalle, adds: “During the hardest economic years in recent history we have achieved what seemed like an impossible dream by selling the entire stock at St Paul’s Square at a time when many purchasers had deserted the housing market. It’s a real credit to the team.”

●

WARRINGTON’S Gemma Pownall has been named as the company’s top Sales Negotiator for the Autumn quarter of 2011 by North West house builder Jones Homes.

Jones Homes’ MD Gary Hardy, presented Gemma with the Personal Achievement trophy, a silver replica cup and a framed certificate for her overall sales performance and success at Newlands Grange, Newton-le-Willows.

Home of the Week

8

Wood Lane, Netherley, on the market for £170,950

Find A Home

9 Agents Choice Liverpool 10 Venmore 11 Loc8 12 Luxury Homes

4-5

13 Agents Choice Lettings 14-15 Classified 16-20 New Homes

6-7

WINNERS: Paul Sutton and Alex Dixon of Sutton Kersh receive their award from Ben Fogle at the Estate Agency of the Year event

BEST: Gemma Pownall with her company award, presented by Jones Homes MD Gary Hardy

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

GUIDE

PROPERTY 3

... to buying

Six-bedroom home really does have the lot!

by JANET TANSLEY

I

T looks fairly impressive from the outside... but that really is nothing compared with what’s hiding behind the door of this stunning six-bedroomed home in Cedar Close, Calderstones.

Cedar Close is a private gated development situated off Yew Tree Road and is up for sale with Sutton Kersh at £1,100,000.

The property is presented to an exceptional standard throughout.

Design features such as a sweeping curved staircase, cinema room, beautiful conservatory and quality kitchen all add to this property’s appeal and charm.

It is set over three floors and is surrounded by established gardens.

In brief the accommodation comprises reception hallway, spacious lounge, bar and games room and a TV and cinema room.

Over the first and second floor there are five/six bedrooms with the master bedroom having a stylish and modern en-suite.

But that is clearly a mere taster.

A spacious driveway leads up to the house which boasts an impressive entrance hall with a bespoke carved and glazed staircase leading to the upper floors and a lovely tiled floor.

The TV room has two double glazed windows, a laminate floor and a wall mounted, remote controlled stainless steel living flame gas fire. There are storage units and glazed display shelving with an inset cinema tv projection system.

The lounge, too, has a laminate floor and remote controlled living flame gas fire and opens into the conservatory and bar and games room.

A beautiful part of the property the floor is finished in quality tiling and is split levelled with a remote control living flame gas fire. The bar area has a wooden bar with drinks dispenser and chilled storage.

The kitchen has a comprehensive range of base, wall and drawer units with granite work surfaces with corresponding upstands and a central island of the same design.

There is a range of integrated

EXPANSIVE: Left, the home’s back garden; top, a bathroom appliances including a stainless steel range cooker with double oven, a seven burner hob, green glazed splash back and a stainless steel extractor hood over.

Added to this is a range of glazed display cabinets to the units and complementary work surface lighting. There is an incorporated stainless steel sink unit with drainer. The floor is tiled. The utility room has base and wall units with work surfaces incorporating a stainless steel sink unit, plumbing for a washing machine, part tiled walls and a tiled floor.

The ground floor WC has a close coupled wc, circular glazed wash

basin and mixer tap, fully tiled walls and a tiled floor.

The first floor landing is approached via the beautiful sweeping staircase.

The master bedroom has high quality laminate flooring, ample down lighting, stylish fitted wardrobes offering hanging space and storage and an incorporated TV unit.

The ensuite has a Jacuzzi bath unit, pedestal wash basin, close coupled wc, part-Travertine walls and marble tiling and a laminate floor. It also benefits from a dressing area.

Bedrooms two, three and four

LUXURIOUS: The property at Cedar Close, Calderstones

also have fitted furniture and laminate floors, and bedroom two has a stylish curved wall.

The family bathroom has a split level floor, a free standing bath unit with mixer tap and rinse shower attachment, a vanity unit with twin his and hers wash basins with corresponding mixer taps and a close coupled WC. There is also a glazed double shower enclosure with multi function shower and steam facility, attractive tiling to walls and floor and a chrome heated towel rail.

On the second floor a shower room serves the fifth and sixth bedrooms.

Bedroom five has a laminate floor and downlights and bedroom six has a sloping ceiling with Velux window to the rear, a laminate floor, down lighting and a walk-in storage cupboard.

The front garden is accessible via secure electronically controlled gates with a driveway providing off road parking for a number of vehicles. The rear garden has a decked terrace and areas of mature lawn surrounded by established and well stocked borders offering a variety of trees and shrubs. ● For more information contact Sutton Kersh on 0151 734 0666 or log onto www.suttonkersh.co.uk

4 PROPERTY

GUIDE

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

... to interiors

My First

HOME

Styles that you

by GABRIELLE FAGAN

W

Louise Craven, MD of New City Vision at Ellergreen, Norris Green Where was the family home you grew up in and what was it like?

The family home I grew up in was in a small village called Madeley just outside Crewe. It was a large barn conversion that my parents renovated over a period of six to eight years.

Every weekend we spent all our time there, helping and playing. It was surrounded by fields and a family run farm.

What is your clearest memory of the house?

My dad on a small JCB removing hay and muck out of what was going to be our hallway, and a bright yellow dumper truck that my parents had brought to help with the renovation.

Where was the first house you bought yourself and what did it cost?

My first home that I bought was in the same village (Madeley) and it cost £117,500. It was a small two bedroom end mews house with a garage.

What made you want to buy it?

The location and the potential. It needed modernising but it was amazing once it was all done.

What are the most important features you look for when buying a house?

Location, value for money, potential and the feel.

Are you a DIY trier or do you leave it to the experts?

Without question a DIY trier, but I’m also someone who still needs help sometimes.

What's the one thing you love most about your current house?

There is not one thing that I don’t love about it, but the main thing I do love is the wonderful memories as it was my nan and grandad’s house for 20 years before I bought it.

BY JANET TANSLEY

E CAN all suffer room envy at the sight of those glamorous settings in magazines or on television, but emulating their style in our homes seems ever more impossible in these cash-strapped times.

“We’ve all become so much more style aware these days.

There’s just so much inspiration all around us, from gorgeous film and TV locations through to those boutique hotels,” says Isobel McKenzie-Price, editorial director of Ideal Home magazine.

“But just because money’s a little tighter than before, it doesn’t mean we’re prepared to compromise when it comes to decorating our own homes.”

McKenzie-Price has interpreted the signature styles of interior designers Kelly Hoppen, Tricia Guild and Nicky Haslam in February’s issue using affordable high-street homeware and furnishings.

“The good news is that it doesn’t take a millionaire bank balance to achieve great style,” she says encouragingly.

“All you need to do is take inspiration from successful designers who use clever tricks that work just as well with high-street buys as they do with really high-end schemes.”

Together with some canny budget buys, she shows it’s not difficult to create a room that won’t just attract compliments but will also leave you feeling smug you haven’t bust the budget.

So take lessons from the designers and transform your home.

FOR HOPPEN’S CHIC LOOK...

KELLY Hoppen’s style is a fusion of east and west, combining simplicity with sumptuous textures and luxe finishes, and a colour palette of taupes, beiges and creams with black as a grounding, defining colour.

Creating symmetry is key to her streamlined, structured style and it helps create a calm, ordered interior for a living space.

She advises positioning furniture to line up neatly around an existing feature, such as a fireplace or window.

“Sofas should face one another and armchairs should be at a 45-degree angle to sofas,” she says.

When adding

SUBTLE: walls in Soft Taupe matt emulsion, £13.79 for 2.5 litre, Dulux; Ribba picture frames, £14.99 each, prints £6 each, Ikea; Triple Round Swivel coffee table, £249, Dwell; Steel Frame Gloss sideboard, £599, Dwell and nest of tables, £79.99, Argos shelves, pictures and smaller pieces of furniture, position them in exact symmetry with the larger pieces of furniture, Hoppen adds.

DESIGNER TIPS: Use the same paint colour on walls, woodwork and ceiling to create a seamless backdrop. Mix textures by teaming hard surfaces with soft fabrics, such as a lacquered table next to an upholstered sofa.

Accessorise boldly with oversized vases, big prints, huge arrangements of artificial flowers, and sculptural lighting.

LOVE THE LOOK: Start with taupe on all large areas, then add definition with lots of black, and finally lift the scheme with white STYLE: Kelly Hoppen’s is East meets West

accents. Paints such as Opulence “Go for all-out opulence, glitz and Emulsion paint, Dark Truffle, £21.98 glamour. Ornate fireplaces and for 2.5 litres from B&Q, and London delicate panelling will add to the Bridge, £19.50 for 2.5 litres from whimsical feel. This style should Graham & Brown would really get people suit this look. talking.”

Make a statement For a dining room, with an L-shaped sofa, use a classic such as a Kivik sofa bed combination of crisp with footstool, from white cotton for a £904 from Ikea. Black tablecloth and linen and white accessories upholstery, and then are essential: Spindle an injection of Table Lamp, £45, Tesco; shimmer using Kelly Hoppen framed silver-effect print, £64.50, and candelabra, crystal White Rose Cylinder SOFT: Tesco duck egg glassware and Glass vase, £39.84, basic faux silk cushion, £6 decanters. both from QVC. Add sensual

FOR HASLAM’S OPULENT GLAMOUR...

NICKY Haslam’s trademark style is all about charm and wit, combining classic elements with no-holds-barred modern glamour.

“Think theatre,” says Haslam.

luxury with soft silks for curtains and cushions, and the finishing touch – an over-the-top floral centrepiece.

DESIGNER TIPS: Over-scale or under-scale elements in a room make them a focal point. For example a large chandelier and a ceiling-high mirror will contrast with neat wall lights and tiny tea light holders.

Limit the number of accessories to avoid a cluttered effect, but choose

▼

chair, £79, cover £20, at Ikea; Tesco basic faux silk cushion in duck egg, £6.

FOR GUILD’S VIBRANT COLOUR...

TRICIA Guild, founder of Designers Guild, is known for her skilful colour combinations and innovative interpretations of style.

“No colour is too bold or too zingy,” she says. “Rev it up by choosing the brightest shades and

AT EASE: Kivik sofa bed with footstool from £904, Ikea

▼

▼ items that are luxurious-looking such as etched glassware and silver napkin rings.

LOVE THE LOOK: For a cream look try Cafe Au Lait from Le Petit Palais range by Crown, £17.98 for 2.5 litres, and Colours by B&Q Matt paint, Water, £13.98 for 2.5 litres. And add delicate colour with Duck Egg silk emulsion, £14.49, from the Home of Colour range at Homebase.

Make subtle statements with a Mia Long Drop Acrylic & Gloss Fitting chandelier, £55.24 from Dunelm Mill and Bombay Single wall light with pullstring, £16.98 from B&Q; Henriksdal

RIOT OF COLOUR: Beatrice wallpaper, £13.98 per roll, B&Q; Largo Light Rustic Oak Plank flooring, £28.49 per sq m, Quick Step; Monroe bedstead, from £475, Next; bedside tables, £59.99 each, Dunelm Mill; bedcover of Tatton Print Cerise fabric, £28 per metre, Laura Ashley; Plain Square shade, £3.99, from B&Q trimmed with Bobble Trim, £4.20 per metre, John Lewis

▼

can afford

LIGHT TOUCH: Bombay Single Wall light with pullstring, £16.98, B&Q

PROPERTY 5

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

HANGING AROUND: Mia Long Drop Acrylic & Gloss Fitting chandelier, £55.24, Dunelm Mill.

MASK: Kelly Hoppen framed print, £64.50, QVC

lampshades, trimming bed linen with lengths of satin ribbon or sewing a covered button on to the centre of a plain cushion.

Be creative in accessorising and go for statement lighting, colourful frames, unusual artwork and displays of garden flowers arranged in quirky containers from old jam jars DESIGNER TIPS: Customise to wine goblets. inexpensive high-street buys LOVE THE LOOK: LIGHTEN UP: to give them designer style, Choose from the Rock for instance try gluing bobble Spindle Table Candy palette of pinks by trim to the bottom edges of Lamp, £45, Tesco. Dulux, which comes in a

then balance them with a high percentage of black and white.”

Don’t be afraid to mix modern and antique furniture, as well as vintage and new accessories, and create maximum impact by combining patterns of varying sizes rather than playing it safe with co-ordinates.

range of finishes and starts from £21.69 for 2.5 litres.

Or go for a Just One Coat gloss paint in cream, Contemporary, £11.99 from Homebase and Beatrice Pink & Black Wallcovering, £13.98 per role, B&Q. Mix up furniture shades with a Linea 15 Pink Cotton Tapered drum shade, £11 from House of Fraser, and the ivory painted dressing table and chair Sophie Vanity set, £250 from Next.

Finally, dress a bed with a Medallion print bed set from £40 (Medallion printed pillows from £10, round medallion cushion £16) from Next.

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6 PROPERTY

Saturday, January 21, 2012

GUIDE HOT

★★★★

... to outside

It’s time to dust off

by HANNAH STEPHENSON

T

HE news that hundreds of twitchers have descended on a quiet, coastal village in Hampshire to catch a glimpse of an incredibly rare Spanish sparrow may prompt some of us to dust off our bins – binoculars – to look out for unusual birds in our own gardens.

And what better time? With the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch taking place on January 28 and 29, when people are invited to spend an hour recording the birds they see in their own gardens and surrounding area to help provide a snapshot of bird numbers and species in Britain, we may see something other than wood pigeons or magpies.

Indeed, the mild winter so far should have proved beneficial to birds in this country because there will have been more natural food available including insects and accessible berries, according to the RSPB. However, it is crucial that gardeners still top up their feeders and birdbaths because if it does turn cold, the birds will need sustenance, the charity warns.

Last year’s Big Garden Birdwatch results showed that some of the smaller birds which decreased in numbers the previous year bounced back.

Sightings of goldcrests, the UK’s smallest birds, doubled, long-tailed tits increased by a third and coal tits increased by a quarter.

But in the last 30 years many species have been in decline.

Sightings of house sparrows, robins, chaffinches and starlings have all declined since 1979, while wood pigeons and collared doves have shown big increases.

Indeed, wood pigeons have

DECLINING: Numbers of robins, along with such birds as chaffinches and starlings, have all declined since 1979; meanwhile wood pigeons, inset, continue to increase become a pest to gardeners who grow their own winter brassicas such as kale and purple sprouting broccoli, providing a veritable feast for these large birds.

Some gardeners say the pigeons can be deterred by hanging up red cloths. Others resort to covering crops using netting.

“Wood pigeons are happy in lots of different habitats, unlike other birds which aren’t so adaptable,” says Richard Bashford, of the RSPB. “Some birds avoid gardens

because they are so timid but wood pigeons and collared doves will do well in gardens. They will eat fruits, berries, grains and seeds and aren’t fussy.”

The problem is that the sheer size of the bigger birds can scare off small birds which venture into gardens. Plus, wood pigeon numbers continue to increase as they are not as susceptible to cold weather and have a longer nesting season, producing more chicks per year than other species. The young

are fed on crop milk, produced by their parents.

However, there are specific foods which smaller birds love and which you might consider when re-filling your bird feeders.

Small birds such as goldfinches love nyjer seeds and sunflower seeds. Peanuts are rich in fat and are popular with tits, greenfinches, house sparrows, nuthatches, great spotted woodpeckers and siskins.

Crushed or grated nuts attract robins, dunnocks and even wrens.

But never use salted or dry roasted peanuts and only buy from a reputable source.

Fat balls are great for many birds, especially in cold weather, but make sure you remove them from any nylon mesh before putting them out, as birds can catch their feet in the mesh.

Live food such as mealworms are relished by robins and blue tits, and may attract other insect-eating birds such as pied wagtails. Make sure the mealworms you buy are

Best Of The Bunch Snowdrop

Things to do this week

WHILE other plants might fail in particularly harsh or warm winters, the humble snowdrop can be relied upon to appear whatever the weather.

These pint-sized hardy perennial bulbs bloom in late winter or early spring, bearing nodding, sweet-scented white flowers with green markings on the inner petals.

They thrive in semi shade in a moist soil rich in organic matter and, given the right circumstances, will spread a white carpet which looks fantastic under trees in light shade.

They should be planted in early autumn

● Make sure that tender and half-hardy fuchsias, remaining dormant in their pots, do not become completely dry. Spray any early growth with tepid water in the light to soften the wood, but do this sparingly. ● Feed large fan-trained peach and nectarine trees with a balanced fertiliser or blood, fish and bone to encourage new shoots. ● Tidy borders, clearing them of weeds and debris, and avoid compacting the soil in wet weather by using short pieces of board to walk on. ● Use a heated propagator to sow half-hardy annuals and other bedding plants including antirrhinums, African marigolds, Begonia semperflorens,

as soon as you’ve bought them, as the bulbs dry out easily, and you’ll need to plant a lot to achieve an eye-catching effect quickly.

Even in a small garden, 100 bulbs won’t go very far. Good varieties include G. ’S. Arnott’, which is a tall and vigorous type, while G. nivalis, the common snowdrop, is among the best for naturalising, producing dainty white and green flowers on top of narrow green leaves.

There’s also the double snowdrop, G. nivalis ’Flore Pleno’, a strong plant which is slightly shorter than the single variety and is great as an edging plant or at the base of a wall.

HUMBLE: Yet the snowdrop can be relied upon whatever the weather

gazanias and lobelias. ● Order new summer-flowering bulbs and tubers from a reputable supplier. Store them in shallow boxes or trays and keep in a dry, frost-free place until ready to plant. ● Sow seeds of annual carnations, covering them with glass or plastic sheeting and keeping them at a constant temperature of 13-15C (55-60F). ● Check and secure plant ties before the plants start to grow actively. ● Cut back climbers such as Virginia creeper, ivy and climbing hydrangea growing on the house by at least 45cm (18in) from all windows and door frames.

the bins fresh. Any dead or discoloured ones shouldn’t be used as they can cause problems such as salmonella poisoning. Again, buy from a reputable source.

Of course, your own planting scheme can also go some way to making your garden a haven for birds.

A good hedgerow, with a mixture of deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers will provide birds with both shelter and food. Leave an area of your lawn to grow long, to encourage insects to it, and add some nectar-rich plants such as knapweed, red hot pokers, Michaelmas daisies, snapdragons, cornflowers and cosmos to your border.

Red and yellow flowers are said to be the most frequented by birds.

House sparrows can often be seen attacking red and yellow flowers in spring and autumn, eating buds and petals. Berried plants including the spindle bush, the rowan, holly and hawthorn are also a magnet to birds.

When buying bird food, avoid seed mixtures that have split peas, beans, dried rice or lentils as again only the large species can eat them dry. Consider also that kitchen scraps such as cut-up fruit, cake crumbs, grated cheese and uncooked porridge oats are likely to attract bigger birds.

If you select your bird food carefully, hopefully you’ll soon have a host of winged visitors and not only the large ones - to your garden. ● For more information, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

PROPERTY 7

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

Grow Your Own Chitting potatoes GIVE seed potatoes a head start by ’chitting’ them now. Buy seed potatoes from garden centres and lay them on trays or in egg cartons on a well-lit windowsill, but out of direct sunlight.

When the dark green shoots appear on the tubers in four to six weeks, plant them in well-prepared ground, enhanced with compost or well-rotted manure, and within a few months you’ll have crops of delicious spuds to last you throughout summer and well into autumn.

Don’t let the shoots on the seed potatoes become too long before you plant them out. If they get too long, say four inches, they start to become leggy and may break off when you plant them in the ground. This will slow the crop down as the tuber has already expended so much energy producing the shoots.

Prepare your soil in winter, before planting your potatoes. They are really hungry plants so add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil in January onwards and up to early

3 ways to ...

1

the top 30cm of soil where you haven’t grown potatoes for three or four years and plant the tubers four to six inches deep, keeping them well watered but not waterlogged.

By June or July you should be harvesting early varieties.

Make the most of plants in spring

Buy large pots of perennials as these can often be divided, making three small plants instead of one large one.

GREENFINCH: It loves nyjer seeds and sunflower seeds

spring, but don’t overdo it.

One wheelbarrow of compost for every 10 square metres is adequate. Too much compost will encourage lots of dark green foliage at the expense of the tubers underneath.

Dig organic matter into

2

Watch the weather.

Don’t start sowing or planting everything just because March heralds spring, no matter what it says on the seed packet.

Warm up the ground with cloches but remember not much grows above ground until temperatures reach 7C and above, and days grow longer.

3

When planting containers with hardy plants in spring, water well beforehand and add slow-release fertilisers and water-retaining crystals to the compost to save you work through the year.

Rivalry intensifies as bank ramps up lending MORTGAGE lending competition increased as HSBC pledged to make at least £15 billion available in mortgages this year, including £3billion ring-fenced for first-time buyers.

The cash will be used by around 150,000 home owners and more than 27,000 people taking their first step on the property ladder.

The lender said its commitment would represent a market share of more then 11%, in line with the biggest market share the bank has ever had.

The move follows predictions that house transactions could hit record lows this year and concerns that despite widening their ranges with more innovative deals, lenders will tighten their criteria against the weak economic backdrop, making it tougher for would-be buyers to borrow.

A spokesman for HSBC said there were no plans to alter the bank’s lending criteria this year, adding: “We have always had a relatively conservative lending criteria.”

The bank said the mortgage fund will be subject to its usual lending process to ensure that new lending is in the best interests of customers and shareholders.

The first-time buyer share of the market has shown signs of a slight pick-up after hitting its lowest level in nearly three years last autumn.

However, fears have been raised that those struggling to raise a deposit will be hit further when the current stamp duty holiday for first-time buyers ends this spring.

The HSBC spokesman said that the bank has been trying to help first-time buyers and that the maximum loan-to-value deal it offers of 90% has “proved very

HSBC: Stepping up lending popular with customers”.

Martijn van der Heijden, head of lending at HSBC, said: “In 2011 we offered UK borrowers some of the most competitive rates around and we plan to continue this in 2012.

“While some estimates suggest mortgage lending in the UK will fall

this year, HSBC has no intention of closing its doors to customers, nor will we compromise our reputation for responsible lending.”

Rachel Springall, spokeswoman for the comparison website Moneyfacts, said HSBC’s mortgages consistently appear in its weekly “best buy” tables.

She said: “It’s good to see HSBC are committed to helping those struggling to secure a mortgage deal.

“HSBC currently offer the lowest fixed-rate mortgage in the market at 2.28% for two years at 60% loan-to-value with a £1,999 fee.

“Customers with a 10% deposit can also benefit from one of its fee-free fixed-rate deals at 4.69% for two years.”

HSBC has yet to announce its results for the second half of 2011 but said that in the first half of the

year it lent £6.7billion in residential mortgages, 35% more than a year previously.

Recent research by Halifax has found that mortgage payments for new borrowers have reached their most affordable levels for 14 years.

Average mortgage payments for new borrowers, including first-time buyers and home movers, stood at 27% of disposable earnings in the fourth quarter of 2011, Halifax said.

Earlier this week, the Co-operative Bank’s broker lender promised to up its mortgage lending in the buy-to-let sector by a third.

Platform, the dedicated intermediary lender of the Co-operative Bank, said it would lend at least £600million in buy-to-let loans in 2012, as uncertainty in the wider housing market was fuelling rental demand.

8 PROPERTY

HOME Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

of the Week

Buyer interest boost for 2012

AN unexpected surge in interest from potential homebuyers in December bodes well for the house market this year, estate agents said today.

The typical number of househunters registered per branch in December was 294, 32 more than the average figure for November, with viewings continuing right up until the Christmas break, the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) found.

The percentage of first-time buyers also rose to 21%, continuing the rise since this section of the market hit its lowest propor-

RUSTIC: The exterior of the cottage in Wood Lane, Netherley

RISING: Interest is up tion in nearly three years last autumn, although first-time buyers made up a quarter of the market during the same period last year.

Mike Poole, NAEA regional executive for the north sector, said: “Many members were kept busy right up to the Christmas break which bodes well for 2012.

“Sales were being agreed and a limited number of viewings were still booked in right up until the festivities began.”

The greater interest from prospective buyers has yet to translate into purchases, with sales dropping off from six per branch in November to five in December, the lowest figure since December 2010 and in line with the expected seasonal slowdown.

Lenders are expected to tighten their credit criteria this year amid the weak economic backdrop, meaning borrowers could face a tougher time obtaining a mortgage, despite lenders recently expanding their ranges.

ROOMY: Top, the lounge; above, the kitchen

Semi-rural idyll of quiet and pastoral cottage

T

HEY say that good things come in little parcels – as do exceptional ones as well...

Like this delightful period cottage in Netherley.

This two bedroom sandstone dwelling occupies a semi-rural position on Wood Lane with farmland and pasture views.

It retains so much of its original character and charm, while still appealing to those who want the obvious comforts of modern living.

But don’t be fooled by its bijou appearance: it is still spacious and has a garden which would grace many pages of any horticultural magazine – and it’s up for sale at £170,950.

This lovely cottage has a tile entrance porch which leads into the lounge, which boasts the original fireplace

by JANET TANSLEY and hearth, the window and the original period radiator.

Laminate flooring gives the dining room and fresh up-todate feel while the window gives fabulous views of the wonderfully landscaped garden.

The kitchen has a range of matching base and wall units with complementary work surfaces, tiled flooring, an integrated hob and oven, and window and door to the rear.

It has a ground floor bathroom with a panel bath, pedestal wash hand basin, a low level wc and ceiling down lights.

The master bedroom has warm, stripped wooden flooring and a kadder radiator, and a good sized second bedroom.

SPACIOUS: The rear garden of the property The front of the house is paved with a driveway for off-road parking.

At the rear of the house is a lawned garden with decked

patio area, a water feature, ornamental waterfall, offstreet parking for two cars and a paved terrace area.

For more information on

this lovely property contact Farrell Heyworth on 0151 281 8181, or alternatively you can log onto the website at www.farrellheyworth.co.uk

CHOICE ★★★★

Agents’

Grassendale, £645,000 THIS impressive, grade II listed Victorian detached house is in a sought-after area.

The ground floor comprises a hall, two lounges, dining room, morning room and kitchen. There is also a basement with two rooms, one used as a utility room.

Upstairs, there is a bedroom and a bathroom to the first level; two bedrooms and dressing room to the second, plus a third bedroom, study and bathroom to the third level. On the loft level is a storage room and a bedroom.

A separate annexe has a wc, dining room, kitchen, lounge, bedroom and bathroom.

Outside are gardens and a driveway. ● Entwistle Green, 0151 734 2220

Saturday, January 21, 2012

West Derby, £139,999

Aigburth, £285,000

THIS modern-style three bedroom home is arranged over three storeys, and an internal viewing is highly recommended.

On the ground floor an entrance hall gives access to a wc, dining room and fitted kitchen which incorporates a range of appliances and a door opening to a conservatory.

Upstairs is a lounge, bedroom and family bathroom, plus there are two further bedrooms (one with an en-suite) to the second floor.

Outside is off-road parking for two cars, and the property also has double glazing and gas central heating. ● Farrell Heyworth, 0151 220 5020

THIS is a four bedroom detached property which benefits from two conservatories.

The property briefly comprises an entrance hallway, downstairs wc, through lounge/dining room, kitchen, utility room and conservatory.

To the first floor are four bedrooms, an en-suite shower room and a bathroom.

Outside there are gardens to the front and rear, with a driveway and garage providing off-road parking.

The property benefits from gas central heating and partial double glazing, and offers lovely river views from the upstairs front windows. ● Venmore, 0151 733 9000

Maghull, £224,995 THIS fully refurbished modern, four bedroom extended semi-detached home is situated in the popular ‘Avenues’ area of Maghull.

On the ground floor a hallway gives access to a lounge with bay window and an L-shaped dining room with bi-folding doors to a decking area.

There is also a contemporary kitchen fitted with a range of appliances, plus a utility room and a wc.

To the first floor there are four bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Outside is a paved area and garage, plus a sizeable rear garden.

Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the property’s standard of refurbishment. ● Loc8, 0151 526 0021

Allerton, £265,000 THIS extended, four bedroom semidetached house is located in a popular area and the spacious property is presented to a high standard.

On the ground floor a hall leads to a cloaks/wc and a lounge with a living flame gas fire in feature surround.

The rear lounge has patio doors to the rear garden, and there is a fitted kitchen open to a breakfast area.

Upstairs are four bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Outside, the driveway provides space for off-road parking and there is a garage and rear garden. ● Farrell Heyworth, 0151 281 8181

PROPERTY 9

Liverpool

City centre, £84,950 SITUATED on the fourth floor of a purpose-built block is this one bedroom apartment with balcony overlooking a communal decked terrace area.

The accommodation comprises an entrance hall, open-plan lounge/diner/ kitchen, one double bedroom and a bathroom with white suite.

The windows are double glazed and laminate flooring is laid throughout the apartment, with the exception of the bathroom.

There is no chain involved. ● Venmore, 0151 236 4400

Calderstones, £499,950

City centre, £59,995 HERE is an opportunity to live in the centre of Liverpool, close to the main shopping and entertainment districts.

This is a one bedroom apartment, with parking space included in the undercroft car park.

Situated on the third floor of the development, the apartment has accommodation comprising an entrance hall, open-plan lounge/diner/kitchen, one double bedroom and a bathroom.

The property is available for sale with no chain being involved. ● Venmore, 0151 236 4400

THIS four bedroom semi-detached house is located in a desirable residential area.

The property has been extended and improved and is beautifully presented.

On the ground floor, the hallway gives access to a lounge. The kitchen is fitted with a stylish range of appliances and has French doors onto a decked terrace.

There is also a sitting room, open to a conservatory/dining area. A utility area, office and wc complete downstairs.

Upstairs, the master bedroom boasts a modern en-suite shower room, plus there are two further bedrooms as well as a contemporary family bathroom.

To the second floor is a fourth bedroom with en-suite bathroom.

Outside is a drive, garage and gardens. ● Sutton Kersh, 0151 734 0666

10 PROPERTY

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

Imperial Buildings, 9 Dale Street, Liverpool L2 2SH

Waterloo Road, Liverpool L3

Colin Drive, Liverpool

Coningsby Road, Liverpool

Argyle Street, Liverpool

Gilmartin Grove, Liverpool

£175,000

£123,950

£119,950

Reduced to £114,995

£112,000

●

Fabulous duplex apartment

●

Three bedroom semi detached house

●

Stunning mid-terrace house

●

Views towards River Mersey

●

Pleasant residential cul-de-sac

●

Fabulous bathroom

●

Two large double bedrooms

●

Attractive gardens and driveway

●

Stylish fitted breakfast kitchen

●

Two bathrooms

●

Gas central heating and double glazing

●

3 double bedrooms

●

Barrel Vaulted ceilings

●

Less than 2 miles from city centre

●

UPVC double glazing

●

Parking space included

●

Stamp Duty Exempt

●

Gas central heating system

●

Concierge

●

Viewing highly recommended!

●

Available with NO CHAIN!

● ● ●

●

● ● ● ●

Duplex apartment One double bedroom Substantial Terrace overlooking Campbell Square Superb location for access to restaurants and city centre Spacious lounge/diner/fitted kitchen Double glazed windows Electric heating system Available with NO CHAIN!

●

Superb two bedroom apartment

●

Stylish Kitchen and Bathroom

●

Convenient location for Hospitals and Universities

●

UPVC double glazing and electric heating

●

Allocated and Visitor parking bays

Highfield Street, Liverpool

William Jessop Way, Liverpool

Commercial Road, Liverpool

Saxony Road, Kensington Fields

The Cable Yard, Cheapside

£105,000

Reduced to £99,950

£95,000

£90,000

£84,950

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Second floor apartment Two double bedrooms Available with NO CHAIN! Lounge/diner Seperate Kitchen Bathroom with electric shower Double glazed windows Electric heating Attractive communal gardens Allocated and visitor car spaces

●

Stylish 6th floor apartment

●

Ground floor apartment

●

City views

●

One double bedroom

●

24 hour Concierge

●

Tastefully presented throughout

●

One double bedroom

●

Open plan lounge/diner/fitted kitchen

●

Spacious Lounge/dining/fitted kitchen

●

Less than two miles from Liverpool City

●

Stylish Bathroom fittings and tiling

●

Video intercom entry system

●

●

●

●

Mid terrace house

●

Fourth floor apartment

Two bedrooms & Loft room

●

100% ownership

●

One double bedroom

●

Lounge/Diner/Kitchen

●

Balcony

Two reception rooms

●

Kitchen & Bathroom

centre

●

UPVC double glazing and GCH

●

Communal decked terrace

Council Tax Band A!

●

Versatile accommodation

●

Available with NO CHAIN!

Mater Close, Liverpool

Molyneux Road, Liverpool

Concert Street, Liverpool

Ling Street, Kensington

Cavern Court, Kensington

Reduced to £72,950

£64,950

£59,995

£55,000

£25,000

●

Two bedroom second floor apartment

●

Mid terrace house

●

Third floor apartment

●

Fitted kitchen with oven/hob/hood

●

Two bedrooms

●

One double bedroom

●

UPVC double glazing & GCH

●

Two reception rooms

●

● ●

En-suite Shower room

Gas central heating system

Open plan Lounge/Diner/Kitchen

●

PARKING SPACE INCLUDED

●

●

●

Partial UPVC double glazing

Allocated parking space

●

Bathroom with shower enclosure

●

Concert Square vicinity

Good letting potential

●

The property is presently tenanted

●

Available with NO CHAIN!

●

End of terrace house

●

●

Three bedrooms

●

●

Two reception rooms

● ● ● ●

Double glazed to the front

●

Gas central heating system

● ● ●

STUDIO apartment offering potential Gross rental yield of 13%!

Estimated ERV £4,000 p.a.

Ideal starter home or investment opportunity Modern Kitchen with oven and hob Modern bathroom with white suite UPVC double glazed windows Electric Storage heaters Available with NO CHAIN!

WALTON

STALMINE ROAD

● Investment Opportunity ● to Build Apartment Block ● Minimal Structural work required ● Private and Communal Gardens ● Secure Parking ● SCAN QR CODE FOR INFO!

£350,000

LYDIATE

COPPULL ROAD

● Detached Bungalow ● Two Bedrooms ● Lounge, Conservatory ● Bathroom, Kitchen ● Gardens front side and rear ● GCH, DG

£139,950

MAGHULL

BRENDALE AVENUE

● Semi Detached House ● Three Bedrooms ● Front and Rear Reception Rooms ● Dining Kitchen ● Bathroom and Downstairs WC ● Loft Room ● Gardens and Driveway, Garage

£249,950

KNOWSLEY VILLAGE

HOMER ROAD

● Semi Detached house ● Four Double Bedrooms ● Lounge, Dining Room ● Kitchen, Utility, WC ● Landscaped Garden ● GCH, DG

£139,500

MELLING

WADDICAR LANE

● Three Bedroom End Town House ● Gardens Front Side and Rear ● Open Plan Lounge and Diner ● Kitchen, Conservatory and Bathroom ● Garage ● GCH and DG

£129,950

NETHERTON

MORGAN MEWS

● Modern Semi Detached House. ● The property benefits from GCH and D/G Windows ● Hallway, Kitchen, Lounge, Conservatory ● Two Bedrooms and Bathroom. ● Front, Side and Rear Gardens. ● Driveway to front and space to rear providing Off

Road Parking.

LIVERPOOL

£124,950

LIVERPOOL

MAGHULL

HAYMANS GREEN

● Semi detached houses ● louge, dining room, conservatory ● fitted kitchen, utility rooms ● three bedrooms and family bathroom ● gardens front and rear, garage. ● gas central heating double glazing

£187,500

KIRKBY

YOXALL DRIVE

● Modern Three Bed Detached ● High Specification Finish ● Lounge, Dining Kitchen ● WC, En Suite, Family Bathroom ● Gardens Front and Rear, Driveway ● DG, GCH, NO CHAIN

£137,950

PROPERTY 11

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

LYDIATE

NURSERY ROAD

● Three Bed Semi ● Lounge/Diner ● Kitchen and Bathroom ● Gardens Front Side and Rear ● Offset Garage with Driveway ● DG and GCH

£149,950

STANSFIELD AVENUE

● Newly Refurbished Semi ● Three Bedrooms ● Open Plan Layout ● Modern kitchen and bathroom ● Gardens front and rear ● Garage and Driveway

£142,950

MELLING

OIRO £137,500

100% MORTGAGES NOW AVAILABLE The Family Guarantee Mortgage is designed for first or second time buyers who don’t have a big enough deposit, but have a parent, step parent or grandparent who is able and willing to provide a guarantee secured against their residential property.

MOSS LANE

● Three Bedroom Extended Semi ● Extended Dining Kitchen ● Open Plan Lounge and Dining Room ● Playroom/Morning room, Utility Room ● Upstairs bathroom and downstairs shower room ● Driveway and gardens to the front, side and

rear

£139,950

NETHERTON

WALTON

RAINBOW DRIVE

● Extended Four Bedroom Semi Detached ● Three Floors Accommodation ● Lounge/Dining Room ● Kitchen/Utility Room ● Gas Central Heating/Double Glazing ● Front/Rear Gardens

ORRELL PARK

MAGHULL

HORNBY PLACE

● Three Bed Semi Detached House ● Lounge, Conservatory ● Kitchen/Diner ● Bathroom and WC ● Detached Outbuilding, Gardens Front Side

and Rear

● GCH, DG, NO CHAIN

HARVESTER WAY

● Modern Semi Detached House ● Extended and Improved ● Two Bedrooms, Bathroom ● Lounge, Diner, Kitchen ● Gardens Front and Rear ● Driveway, GCH, DG

£129,995

Offers Over £130,000

ORRELL PARK

THORNFIELD ROAD

● Three Bedroom Terraced Property ● GCH and D/G Windows. ● Porch, Hallway, Lounge, Dining Room, ● Kitchen and Utility Room. Three First Floor

Bedrooms and Bathroom.

● Loft Room with Lighting and Power. Enclosed

Rear Courtyard Garden.

£117,500

AINTREE

RITCHIE AVENUE

● Semi Detached House ● Three Bedrooms ● Lounge, Dining Room ● Modern bathroom, Kitchen ● Gardens Front and Rear ● GCH and DG, NO CHAIN

£109,950

AINTREE

NETHERTON

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

PRINCES DOCK

● 8th Floor Apartment ● DG/EH ● Open Plan Lounge ● Kitchen/Bathroom ● Secure Parking ● 24hr Conceierge

£109,950

Offers in Excess of £100,000

FAZAKERLEY

MOSS PITS LANE

● Two Bedroom Terrace House ● Lounge ● Kitchen/Dining Room ● Gound Floor WC ● Family Bathroom

£84,950

FORMBY

WICKS LANE

● Executive Apartment ● Fully Furnished ● Two Bedrooms ● Two Bathrooms, Lounge/Diner/Kitchen ● Secure Allocated Parking, Communal

Gardens

● DG and Under Floor Heating

£1,200 pcm

RHODESIA ROAD

MARNELL CLOSE

● Modern House Built in 2009 ● Close Proximity to City Centre ● Three Bedrooms ● Lounge, Dining Kitchen ● Bathroom, Ground floor WC ● Garden, Three Parking Spaces ● GCH, DG, NO CHAIN

LIVERPOOL

TOBACCO WHARF

● Two Bedroom First Floor Apartment ● Open Plan Lounge/Diner and Kitchen ● Two Bedrooms and Bathroom. Communal

Gardens.

● Allocated Parking Space and Visitor Parking

with 24 Hour Security Access.

● NO CHAIN

£84,950

LIVERPOOL 1

CHANDLERS WHARF

● Brand Newly Refurbished Apartments ● Two Beds, Two Bath ● Fitted Kitchens with Appliances ● Secure Parking ● Views over City, Mersey and Cathedrals ● Can be Fully Furnished for £50PCM

£700 pcm

Terms and Conditions Apply A fee of a maximum of £500 or 1% of the loan is payable on completion.

Typically this will be £250. For more information contact us on 0113 3863595 HK Financial Services Limited is an appointed representative of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

AINTREE

LONG LANE

● Mid Town House ● Three Bedrooms ● Hallway, Lounge ● Kitchen Bathroom ● Driveway, Garden ● GCH & DG

£75,000

WAVERTREE

MABERLEY VIEW

● Modern Ground Floor Flat ● Fully Furnished ● Two Bedrooms ● Lounge/Kitchen, Bathroom ● Secure Parking, Communal Gardens ● GCH, DG Available NOW

£550 pcm

FAZAKERLEY

LYDIA WALK

● Mid Town House ● DG / GCH ● Lounge ● Kitchen ● 3 Beds ● Garage & Gardens

£74,950

WALTON

GREY ROAD

● First Floor Apartment ● Lounge ● Electric Storage Heaters ● Kitchen ● 2 Beds ● Bathroom

£500 pcm

● Mid Terrace ● Three Bedrooms ● Lounge, Kitchen ● Ground Floor Bathroom ● Gardens front and rear ● GCH and DG

HOWARD FLOREY AVENUE

● Three Bedroom Mid Town House ● GCH and D/G Windows ● Hallway, Lounge/Diner, BreakfastKitchen. ● Three Bedrooms and Bathroom. ● Front and Enclosed Rear Garden. ● Driveway to Front. Overlooking Canal to

Front.

£95,000

Offers in Excess of £89,950

BOOTLE

KIRKBY

OLIVIA STREET

● Mid Terrace house ● Three Bedrooms ● Lounge, Dining Room ● Kitchen, Bathroom ● Yard ● GCH and DG

£64,950

SOUTHPORT

THE COURTYARD

● The Courtyard one bedroom apartment ● lounge and kitchen fully fitted with appliances ● modern bathroom ● private secure parking ● ideal proximity to Lord Street and amenities.

£500 pcm

ROUGHWOOD DRIVE

● First Floor Apartment ● One Bedroom ● Open Plan Lounge and Kitchen ● Bathroom, Two Storage Rooms ● Allocated Parking, Communal Gardens ● GCH, DG, NO CHAIN

Offers in Excess of £55,000

FAZAKERLEY

DAWN WALK

● Mid Terraced House ● Two Bedrooms ● Newly Refurbished ● Lounge, Kitchen/Diner ● Garden front and rear ● GCH and DG

£500 pcm

Sales: 0151-526-0021 108 Liverpool Road South, Maghull. L31 7AG Lettings: 0151-531-1089 www.loc8estateagents.co.uk www.rightmove.co.uk www.propertyfinder.co.uk www.fish4homes.co.uk

12 PROPERTY

HOMES

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Luxury

by SARAH HOOLEY THIS modern but period-style detached residence overlooks Bowring Park Golf Course.

Inside, the property is presented to an extremely high standard and offers many quality and elegant features including a selection of architectural antiques.

On the ground floor an entrance hall leads to a reception hall and a lounge with bay windows, an antique fireplace with cast iron inset and a coved, panelled ceiling.

The sitting room has an antique fireplace and there is a superb kitchen boasting a bespoke range of units, wood blocked and black granite worktops, a twin bowl Belfast sink, island base and ornate panelled ceiling. A stylish dining room, beautiful conservatory with a pitched roof line, utility room and a cloakroom/wc complete downstairs.

A single span marble stairway leads to the first floor, where there is a galleried landing with seating area.

The master bedroom has a dressing area, an antique fireplace and an en-suite bathroom with a five piece suite. Bedroom two also has a dressing room and en-suite bathroom, plus there are two further bedrooms (one with an ensuite cloaks) and an impressive family bathroom comprising a freestanding bath, twin vanity wash

★★★★

basins and stands, a wc and bidet.

The property also has roof space providing storage rooms and walkin wardrobes.

Outside there are landscaped gardens to four sides and a sweeping driveway offering ample parking. The mature lawns include an astro turf play area and patio terrace, and there is a twin garage. ● Roby, £875,000; Sutton Kersh, 0151 734 0666

IMPRESSIVE: High Carrs, Roby has many beautiful features

COMING SOON to Formby...

FALLOWFIELDS MOSS SIDE, FORMBY

A small development of 7 stunning 4 bedroom family homes

r Ask about ou t un special disco incentives!

Open weekend coming soon!

For further information and a pricelist, please call our Sales Team on 07715 439 993

We make a house a home www.broadleydevelopments.co.uk

CHOICE Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

Agents’

Parkgate, £1,500pcm THIS is a rare opportunity to live in half of a magnificent grade II listed building.

The property is set in 300 acres of land, rolling down to the banks of the River Dee, with views over to North Wales.

This superior property offers many period features.

It briefly comprises three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a farmhouse kitchen with Aga, separate laundry room, downstairs toilet, large lounge, separate dining room and private entrance hall.

The property has the use of a communal large paved patio area to the rear and very large lawned gardens.

There is also a sweeping driveway and parking to the front and rear. Included in the monthly rental price is a gardener. ● Grosvenor Properties, 0151 342 3465

Princes Park, £1,100pcm HERE is a well presented and maintained unfurnished four/five bedroom ground and basement duplex apartment.

Modernised to a high standard, this apartment is situated in private grounds.

The property briefly comprises, to the ground floor a communal entrance hall, internal hall, spacious kitchen/diner, lounge, dining room, two good sized bedrooms, dressing room and a family bathroom with separate wc.

The basement comprises a hall, two bedrooms and a utility room and bathroom.

To the exterior there are communal gardens, parking and a private decked balcony. ● Venmore, 0151 733 9000

Sefton Park, £795pcm HERE is an absolutely stunning two bedroom apartment in a gated development on Aigburth Drive.

Overlooking the fabulous Sefton Park, this apartment has to be viewed to appreciate the accommodation on offer.

Finished to a great specification and offering a relaxing living area, two generous bedrooms, a superb kitchen and two immaculate bathrooms, this property cannot be recommended highly enough.

There is also a secure parking space available. ● Venmore, 0151 733 9000

Upton, £675pcm THIS extended and much-improved modern, semi-detached house has the benefit of gas central heating and double glazing.

The property is situated in a quiet established residential area convenient for amenities.

Inside the property comprises an entrance porch, entrance hall, quality ground floor shower room, lounge, extended dining room, fitted kitchen, three double bedrooms and a modern bathroom.

Externally, there is a garage, additional parking and good sized gardens. ● Northwood Wirral, 0151 348 4527

PROPERTY 13

Lettings

Docks, £650pcm THIS fabulous two bed, fully furnished first floor apartment is situated in Liverpool Marina, offering stunning views of Liverpool Cathedral.

The bright spacious apartment is gas central heated, fully double glazed and comprises in brief a lounge with double glazed patio doors to a balcony, a fully fitted modern kitchen including stainless steel oven/hob, fridge/freezer, washer/ dryer, two bedrooms, the master having an en-suite shower room and double glazed patio doors to a balcony, plus a modern family bathroom.

The property also has secure allocated parking and a door entry system. ● Sutton Kersh, 0151 207 5923

New Brighton, £450pcm THIS quirky and unusual two bedroom maisonette is situated close to the promenade in New Brighton.

The property benefits from central heating, double glazing and a good sized rear courtyard.

The flat has been refurbished and benefits from a newly fitted kitchen and bathroom plus new carpets.

Inside comprises an entrance hallway, lounge and steps to the kitchen, which has a range of units, rolled edge work surfaces, integrated dishwasher, oven, hob and extractor hood and tiled flooring.

Stairs lead to the bathroom and further stairs lead to the two bedrooms.

Externally, to the front there is a front garden and a courtyard to the rear. ● The Property Centre, 0151 639 7500

City centre, £625pcm SUTTON Kersh is pleased to offer this luxury two bedroom duplex apartment located within a popular development within close proximity to Liverpool city centre.

The apartment is to be let on a furnished basis.

It offers well laid-out accommodation on two floors, including a fully fitted kitchen, electric heating and parking.

There is easy access from here to all the usual amenities including Liverpool city centre shops, restaurants and nightlife. ● Sutton Kersh, 0151 207 5923

Parkgate, £535pcm THIS charming two bedroom character cottage is situated close to the parade in Parkgate.

The property has the benefit of views from the first floor over the Welsh hills.

Inside, the accommodation comprises a lounge through to a diner, the lounge having a feature fireplace, plus a fitted kitchen, shower room and two bedrooms, all presented to a high standard.

There is a shared rear patio area with storage, and the property is fully double glazed and is warmed by gas central heating. Parking is available directly outside the cottage. ● Clive Watkin Lettings, 0151 336 4141

14 HOMES

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Property Wanted

Accommodation To Let URBAN PROPERTIES properties to let in L9, L20, L21, L23, L30 and PR9. Guarantor/dep req. DSS OK. 0151 933 8888 or 07972 161123

Quick Q i k Decision D i i to Quick Completion

• Any Property, Any Area, Any Condition

• Probate And Inherited Property Specialists

A L L E R T O N Lovely 4 bed £850pcm, L11 3 bed, gardens, drive £520pcm, L4 2 bed, refurbed £115pw. Tel: 07973 143128

• Legal Fees Paid, No Hidden Charges • Calls Answered 24/7

AIGBURTH VALE 2 bed 2nd floor purpose built luxury flat, D/G, GCH, guarantor req, £550 pcm 639 7272 or 07947 148951

• Liverpool’s Longest Running Cashbuyer of Property FAST, FAIR AND PROFESSIONAL - CALL TODAY! HOME BUYERS

LIND STREET, WALTON 2 Bed Mid Terrace, £375pcm SHALDON RD, KIRKBY, 3 Bed Mid Terrace, £125pw. 0151 653 3340

0800 032 7033 0151 909 3759

Homes For Sale

WALLASEY

5 bed house, DG, CH, 5 minute walk to Liverpool Ferry, 5 minute drive to Wallasey Tunnel. Could be converted into flats NO CHAIN

£90,000 ono 07900 566682 After 2pm

CITY CENTRE APARTMENT

AIGBURTH Nr Cricket Club.

Large s/c 1 bed flat, GCH, DG. DSS ok with g’tor £115pw 07836 369919

Caravan Parks / Mobile Homes

CROWN STREET 2 bed furn flat, £550pcm, £550 deposit and references required. 07831 483089.

STATIC CARAVAN FOR S A L E FANTASTIC OFFER − ONLY £4995 3 bedrooms, 12ft, on beautiful North Wales family park with many facilities inc swimming pool. Redundancy forces sale.

Call Sarah 07747 806285

L 1 0 three−bed house fully refurb. Gch, dg. No DSS. Deposit required. £595 pcm.

Tel. 07967 180 353.

W O W ! ! Brilliant 8 berth caravan for sale. Due owners bad health. Sited on 10.5 month park. Only £3800. For more info call Andrew 07513 262030

WALTON 1 bed s/c flat. Nicely decorated, laminate floors, blinds, £80pw Dep/refs Tel: 07860 333466.

CARAVAN FOR SALE Absolute Bargain. Perfect condition. 3x bedrooms. Fully sited on a seafront location with no site fees to pay until 2013. Call Pam 07935 116190

Wanted To Rent WANTED 3 BED PROPERTY For company let, most areas.

Call Rebecca on 07794 289756.

Accommodation To Let LUXURY WATERSIDE APARTMENTS MARINERS WHARF 1 bed furn apt............. £500pcm 2 bed furn apt ............. £650pcm

CASH PAID FOR PROPERTIES IN LIVERPOOL No Fees to pay Any Property, any condition Call Today 0151 268 0164 or 0800 048 4829(24/7) www.yellowspringbok.co.uk

DO NOT SELL YOUR HOUSE TODAY Call me for a free chat about your options and to find out what you may be better off doing instead!

Call 07922 540921 NOW!

WE BUY LOCAL HOUSES in any condition 4 cash. Call Emma 07857 557248. Your Local Property Buyer

TRY US FIRST We buy any terrace houses 07976 693731 FAST CASH FOR PROPERTY Call us last 0151 428 1800

Homes For Sale

LIVERPOOL 27

4 bed family house, downstairs wc/cloaks, large sunny lounge, fitted kitchen, front and rear gardens, new dg and ch, off road parking

Reduced to £88,000 (ono) 07899 737558

Lovely apts, riverside/marina views.

Parking & landscaped gardens.

Popular bar & restaurant.

Homes For Sale

SOUTHPORT 1 BED FLAT Near Lord Street but could be converted to 2 bedrooms.

£67,950 01704 512708

2 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KENSINGTON

L 1 7 A M P T H I L L R D Exceptionally large 4 bed hse.

New pvc dg, ch, new carpets/ decor £675pcm. Dep/Ref’s, no Dss 07813 893828 CITY 2 bed luxury waterside flat, balcony, views, secure parking, suit professional, refs & dep req’d, from £150 pw. Tel: 07850 779046.

• Repossessions Stopped At Any Stage

MERSEY

WHISTON 1 bed apartment, f/f to high spec, gch, dg, parking space, £100 pw. Dep and guarantor req’d. 01244 571810 or 07702 430 622

2 bedroom city centre apartment near Liverpool One. 2 bathrooms including en-suite, large balcony, secure parking. £147,500 07903 322008

Caravan Parks / Mobile Homes

Newly refurbished to a high standard, currently tenanted at £500 pcm Offers over

STATIC CARAVAN FOR S A L E 35 X 12ft. 3 Beds. £6000 o.n.o. On premier 10.5 month North Wales Park with excellent facilities including show bars, sports bar. 2 indoor pools & jacuzzi. Also 1/2 Million Pound refurbishment to be ready by March, Only 3 minutes from the beach. Call 07551 714326

£50,000 only Contact Graham on 07516 233 917

FANTASTIC STATIC CARAVAN FOR SALE Perfect Condition. 3 Bedrooms. Fully sited. Direct access to beach, Along the beautiful North Wales Coast. Must be seen. Absolute Bargain £4950.. Call Matthew 07706 915173

RICE LANE 2 Bed upper floor flat, GCH, D/G, £395 pcm, dep & refs req. 01695 577939

OLD SWAN furnished room in shared accomm, £65pw, incl bills and cleaner. No DSS. 0151 286 0137.

L32 KIRKBY 3 Bed semi driveway, gardens gch u/furn DSS welcome. Dep & 4 weeks rent reqd. £130pw. 07540 131837 L15 STANDALE RD 2 bed house. DG. GCH. No Deposit.

DSS okay. G−TOR req. £450pcm. 07748 906692.

FAZAKERLEY 3 bed dorma semi, totally refurb, ready end Jan, £550 pcm + bond.

Employed prof. 07906 873999 VIEW 146 L5 Conway St, 1 bed, secure parking, unfurn, gym, £400 pcm. 015 932 9655 or 07883 080715 R O O M I N H O U S E by Fazakerley Hosp/Station £75wkly, no bills. Ring for details. Tel: 07841 018161 IMMACULATE fully furnished 2 bed terrace £475pm, no DSS, L6 area. 0151 4930935 or 07748 992833 L4 & L6 Rooms in lux shared house would suit mature person from £55pw all incl. No DSS. 07803 082999/ 260 7980

P E N T H O U S E A P T Hatton Garden 2 bd balcony & parking £640pcm 0151 260 4411

L15 lovely modern refurb 2 bed house, laminate fl, DG, GCH, alarm, quiet cul de sac, no DSS £450 pcm. 0151 722 9709.

ORRELL PARK 2 bed 1st floor purpose built flat. Dg & gch, parking Dss ok with g’tor £450pcm 07958 459416

SEAFORTH 3 & 4 bed house.

DG, GCH, fully modern LHA rates 07866 506642.

L4 Off County Rd 2 bed terrace dg ch £115pw. DSS ok with g’tor. 07836 369919 L15 OFF CHURCH RD Gch Bedsit, shared facitily, £50pw 0151 486 1997 WAVERTREE L15 1 bed flat.

Suit mature person. £300 pcm.

07901 593869 W A L T O N lux rooms new shared hse gch dep reqd £70− £85pw all bills 07740 178140 WALTON L9 2 bh, dg/gch, full refurb £425pcm 07500 871675 L17 NR ULLET RD S/contained 1 bed u/f flat, gch, £95pw 0151 486 1997 BINBAGGED? Bedsits L6, s/c flats L11. Deposits from £50 DSS ok. 07921 299984 OAKFIELD LANE L21. Mod 2 bed purpose built flat, dg, gch, gdn’s. DSS ok. 07851 227796 BROMPTON AVE L17 2 bed, furn mod apt. Secure parking, fr £475pcm 07801 531814 LEONARDS CLOSE L36. Mod 2 bed, dg, gch, gdn’s. DSS ok.

07851 227796 NR SEFTON PKlovely spacious 3 dble bed flat, new decor, £575 pcm. 07708 090990.

BORROWDALE RD L15 2 bed flat, CH, DG, £100pw 0151 734 1112 L6 3 bed house, 2 bed & 1 bed flat. L13 2 bed flat 07815 095503 L6 3rd person to share 3 bed house en suite, from £80pw 07803 082999/ 260 7980 CROSBY lge f/furn bedsit,own kitchen, quiet. 40+ £60pw No DSS. 0151 281 1422 KIRKBY 3/4 bed house, en− suite to master, £625 pcm.

07739 295 646 L14 3 bed modern house, dg/ gch, lge gdn, 2 wc’s. Dep & ref’s req’d £127pw 07767 247195 HUNTS CROSS VILLAGE spacious 3 bed apt, £475 pcm, no DSS. Tel. 07846 374 969.

L13 2/3 bed flats, new kitchen, DG, close to shops, £360/ 380pcm. 07956 189404.

L19 Lincoln St nice 3 bed hse, gch/dg, Dss ok £100 dep 07989 552614

BUCKINGHAM RD L13. 1 bed. DSS ok. 07894 540845 L21 1 bed s/c flat, 25+ 01704 830450 L9 W’ton A’tree 1&2 bed flats 3 bed hse 28+ 07743 601828 L4 1 bed Flat gch DSS welcome £325pcm. 07530 887326 L4 2 bed terrace, g.c.h. d.g; £400 pcm. 07775 856677 ESMOND ST L6 3 bed house ch dg £100pw 0151 734 1112 PRESCOT 2 bed flat. 07817 214010

Contact Laura: 0161 434 5225 or Mike: 07775 697796 www.wrenproperties.co.uk

NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED DSS OK with guarantor L4 Lind St ......... 1 & 2 bed flat L4 Pendleton Rd..............3 bed L6 July Rd........................2 bed L20 Antonio St.................3 bed L20 Benedict St.....2 bed furn’d L21 Hartwell St................2 bed L21 Hawarden Grove.......3 bed .MANY PROPERTIES ACROSS. ......LIVERPOOL AVAILABLE...... ............0151 928 9280............

RETIREMENT FLATS NEW BUILD, 1 Bedroom Walton/Aintree Area Lift, Intercom, Careline Laundry Room & Caretaker Over 55’s only. Fr £99pw Tel 0151 428 0226

SEAFORTH Modern three−bed apartment with two storerooms in quiet cul−de−sac with off− road parking. No pets; no smokers. £490 pcm. Tel. 07768 877 393.

WATERLOO, BOOTLE, ORRELL PARK, TUEBROOK Furnished studios & rooms from £57pw. All bills inc broadband.

N0 DEPOSIT REQ. No DSS. Over 25. 0151 928 9280

More people in the area turn to the Liverpool ECHO, in print and online, when looking for a property to rent or buy than anywhere else.

Source: Gfk NOP 2008, TM NW2 10% area

Saturday, January 21, 2012

ECHO Homes

homes-merseyside.co.uk

LIVERPOOL ECHO LIVERPOOL POST METRO QUIDS IN

Alternatively please call into you local office: Liverpool Post and Echo, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB

BLEND A CHOICE OF STYLISH FINISHES AND MODERN APPLIANCES Buy a new home and personalise it before you move in creating the perfect spaces for you to live, relax and unwind.

New homeowners don’t have to worry about DIY disasters, as everything will be ready for the day you move in.

Start searching for your new home on SmartNewHomes today.

smart new homes

HOMES 15

227 3030

16 PROPERTY

New

by EMMA THOMPSON

T

HIS year will see creditworthy homebuyers offered the best chance since the start of the credit crunch to buy a new home without a hefty deposit.

Leading housebuilder Barratt Manchester is hailing the return of 95% mortgages for buyers of new homes as a real boost for the local housing market and economy.

“The key thing about the return of 95% mortgages on new-build homes is that people will no longer need huge deposits of up to 20% of the price of the property,” said Jason Newton, sales director at Barratt Manchester.

“Even though house prices have fallen since 2007, not everyone has been able to take advantage because of the hefty deposits which lenders have been demanding ever since the credit crunch began.

“Now the banks have agreed to start lending again on new-build homes at 95% loan to value, so homebuyers will only need a deposit of five per cent. In practice that means you could buy a home from Barratt Manchester with a deposit of just £3,959.

“This is a game-changing moment for creditworthy buyers who have been frustrated for years about not owning a home of their own. Anyone who doesn’t have

New

by EMMA THOMPSON

A

HOMES

Saturday, January 21, 2012

LIVERPOOL couple’s house move had to be put on hold when their baby arrived ahead of the removal van.

Lee and Stephanie Smith’s second child, Sonny, clearly couldn’t wait to see his new home on Keepmoat Homes’ The Parks development in Anfield and promptly arrived as the packing boxes were being sealed up.

Said Stephanie: “We were meant to collect the keys on the Thursday, but as this was my due date we managed to bring the moving date forward to the Tuesday. It appears Sonny couldn’t wait to see his new bedroom!”

Lee and Stephanie were renting a two bedroom property down the road from The Parks when they discovered Sonny was on the way.

Already having one son, ‘little’ Lee, aged 16 months, and therefore in need of more space, the couple tentatively started looking to buy.

“It wasn’t until a relative of Lee’s bought at The Parks that things really picked up. We fell in love with the place as soon as we saw it and decided to have a look around the show home, after which we knew it was where we wanted to be and we settled on The Violet house type.”

Currently available at £71,995 when purchased through HomeBuy

★★★★

Guide AVAILABLE: Chandlers Walk development in Bromborough, left. Below, a typical show home

Low deposits

much equity in their current home but needs to take their next step on the housing ladder also stands to benefit.”

Barratt Manchester has set up a special portal for customers to register their interest online at http://www.barratthomes.co.uk/ Offers/Other-offers/95percent mortgage/.

Homes available from Barratt Manchester include a range at Tower Gardens in Liverpool 6 and Chandlers Walk in Bromborough, Wirral. Three bedroom homes at Tower Gardens start at £141,495, while a four bed detached property could be yours for £179,995.

Chandlers Walk is situated close to Port Sunlight and Eastham

Woods Country Park.

The development has a selection of three and four bedroom homes available with prices ranging from £147,995 to £182,495. ● For Chandlers Walk call 0151 644 1027 or Nikki Smith on 07707 207 002, and for Tower Gardens call Neil Bowden on 0151 260 1686 or 07825 762 481.

HOMES

Guide SURPRISE: Lee and Steph Smith had a shock when baby Sonny made an appearance on the day they were due to move into their new home Below, the development

A moving story Direct the Violet is a three bedroom home ideal for those with a growing family. “The house is perfect for us and has everything we need. We love the area and are excited to hear of the plans to build a new school close by in the coming years,”

added Stephanie.

“Keepmoat Homes’ shared equity offer made securing the mortgage easier, and it actually works out cheaper than renting. It’s nice to have the extra security, equity and stability that owning a property

gives you. We look at the house as a money box for our children, the mortgage payments are a kind of saving and much better than losing money to rent.” ● For details call 0151 260 4714 or see www.keepmoathomes.co.uk.

Saturday, January 21, 2012

HOMES 17

Why buy old when you can buy new?

It’s a decision that could be worth at least £50,000.

Buy a second-hand home and, on average, you’ll spend £22,000* on getting it just the way you want it.

You’ll also spend an average of £28,000** on a deposit, stamp duty and solicitor’s fees. That’s £50,000 you need to find at a time when finding any amount isn’t easy.

But buy a new home through smartnewhomes.com (we’ve got more than anyone else from builders across the country – and tons of deals too) and you could keep that money for yourself. A new home needs no maintenance – and because we have all the latest deals, you could have your deposit and fees paid too.

It’s all part of the service from the site with more new homes than anywhere else (and a whole lot of other smart stuff too).

Text SNH to 64446 to find your nearest developments and offers. *Source: RICS, Department of Communities and Local Government. **New Homes Marketing Board.

The smarter way to buy a new home.

Struggling to sell?

We’ve got all the deals that will get you moving.

exciting!

new prospects for 2012 at

Blueberry Park Ruscombe Road, Dovecot L14 4BB

Own your own 3 bed family home for per just month*

£312

NO INTEREST FOR THE FIRST 5 YEARS*

It’s the most frustrating thing in the world. You want to move, but you can’t sell. We know.

Luckily, we can also help. We’ve got ways to get you moving and exclusive deals from developers across the country that are designed to get you out of a home that won’t shift.

And because there’s no upward chain with a new home, getting you moving shouldn’t be a problem. With our Smart Text and email service, we can let you know the second a deal comes along – so you can be first in the queue.

It’s all part of the service from the site with more new homes than anywhere else (and a whole lot of other smart stuff too).

Text SNH to 64446 to find your nearest developments and offers.

MINIMAL DEPOSIT REQUIRED*

ON SELECTED PLOTS ONLY

The superb Shelley, 3 bedroom home normally from £126,950 but with a 25% loan interest free for the first 5 years, now you can afford that dream home.

But hurry! Available for a limited period only on this exciting development of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom family homes.

call

0151 220 5511 Sales centre open Thurs to Sun 10.00am to 5.00pm

www.prospectgb.com T 01925 822023 E info@prospectgb.com

The smarter way to buy a new home.

*Shared Equity from Prospect Homes is an easy way to get you moving and is only available on selected developments and selected plots under £200,000 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other deal. You could own 100% of the property but only pay an initial 75%. All plots require a 5% deposit and you pay just 75% of the purchase price. The remaining 25% of the purchase price is paid by Prospect Homes, interest free for 5 years. The offer is subject to status and Prospect Homes terms and conditions, including exchange of contracts within 28 days and legal completion by a specified date. Prospect Homes cannot offer any financial advice. This mortgage quotation has been supplied by RSC Financial Management LLP via an approved lender. Subject to Terms and Conditions and acceptance by an approved lender for mortgage finance. RSC Financial Management LLP is an Appointed Representative of Personal Touch Financial Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Consumer Credit Licence Number 633531. Registered office 45/49 Greek Street, Stockport, Cheshire SK3 8AX. Company Number 350527. Written details are available on request. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

18 PROPERTY

Saturday, January 21, 2012

★★★★

★★★★

Saturday, January 21, 2012

PROPERTY 19

20 HOMES

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Want to get on the property ladder?

With our huge range of exclusive deals, you can.

The average deposit, stamp duty and solicitors fees for a first-time buyer is a whopping £27,738*.

And that means most people are going to need some help to get on the property ladder. With smartnewhomes.com, you’ll get lots. We’ve got exclusive access to special deals from developers right across the country – all designed to help you get into your first home. Furthermore, if you log on and register your details, we’ll text or email you the minute a great deal comes along. We’ll even arrange site visits and get brochures delivered for you.

It’s all part of the service from the site with more new homes than anywhere else (and a whole lot of other smart stuff too).

Text SNH to 64446 to find your nearest developments and offers.

* Source: RICS, Department of Communities and Local Government.

The smarter way to buy a new home.