ECHO
BIG
★★★★
PROPERTY GUIDE
featuring properties in Liverpool, Wirral, Sefton, West Lancs and the North West
12
Here comes the sun
Pages packed with homes and interiors
Light and luxury with a true architect’s touch in Prenton – Page 3
Style tips for a warmer winter in the bedroom
Pages 4&5
Hollyoaks star Karen on her first house
Page 4
2 PROPERTY
Saturday, December 11, 2010
GUIDE
★★★★
... to buying
Good year to step onto the ladder
Contents
A
LTHOUGH the number of first-time buyers plunged dramatically in 2010 – to 160,000, against possibly half a million in the boom years – many young people believe that 2011 could be a good year to buy their first home. That’s the surprise finding of a survey by the first-time buyer website FirstRungNow.com, which found 40% of its respondents could already pull together a 10% deposit – though at the moment this is not necessarily enough to secure a mortgage. It seems many potential buyers think prices are falling, as Nationwide BS’s latest survey showed, and are set to go lower in 2011. So long as interest rates remain low, this appears to suggest an opening for first timers. Many first-time buyers also seem to think that lenders could have more to lend in 2011. FirstRungNow director Helen Adams says: “We know lenders are building up capital reserves, which limits their lending now, but we believe that in 2011 they will want to revert to near normal business. “Almost three quarters of our respondents have already saved a 5% deposit. “It is time for lenders to see the sense of incentivising or subsidising financially challenged borrowers trying to get on the first rung of the property ladder by offering first-time buyer mortgages, possibly funded by those further up the property chain who have amassed significant property equity in the last 15 years or so. “This would breathe well-needed life into the currently oxygen-starved property industry.” Adams suggests that banks and building societies could make this subsidy by charging higher administrative charges and survey fees on better-off homebuyers higher up the ladder. If they did so, much lower charges and fees could be levied on first-time buyers. By lowering the costs of purchase, lenders would be enabling more first timers to go ahead. Since lenders brought in draconian new rules and targets in
Home of the Week Semi-detached in Knotty Ash, on the market for £112,500
8
6 Beat 4-5 Pull up
the chill the covers
FIRST STEPS: More couples could buy their first house in 2011, experts believe the wake of the credit crunch, first-time buyers – seen as a riskier proposition – often have to pay much more to borrow the same amount of money than borrowers holding a larger slice of equity in their homes. Critics claim that this risks
creating a generation of second-class homebuyers. The FirstRungNow survey found that two thirds of respondents believe that 2011 will be a better time to buy a first home than 2010, while 69% are also optimistic they will qualify for a loan.
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Why live in...
Agents warned over energy bill WEST DERBY-based letting agency LUV2LET is urging landlords to review their potentially energy-leaking properties and be prepared to make changes ahead of the forthcoming Energy Bill. The Bill could give local authorities the power to insist landlords improve the energy efficiency of the worst performing private rented homes. The Bill could also allow tenants to ask for reasonable energy efficiency improvements and receive them from 2015 onwards.
“We're advising our clients to be one step ahead of the legislation by considering energy efficient updates to their properties such as loft insulation and cavity wall insulation,” says Paul Massey, Director of LUV2LET. To coincide with the bill, the government is also launching its “Green Deal” scheme which aims to make energy efficiency available to all – whether people own or rent their
property. This may include financial assistance to update properties. The Green Deal, which is expected to be available from Autumn 2012, will be open to homes and businesses and will involve three stages: Step one: an independent energy survey of the property, giving clear advice on the best
ADVICE: Paul Massey of LUV2LET
energy efficiency options, such as loft or cavity wall insulation. Step two: Green Deal finance to be provided by a range of accredited providers, which will be repaid through savings on energy bills Step three: Homes and businesses will then receive their energy efficiency package. Only accredited measures will be installed by appropriately qualified installers, overseen by government. ◆ For more information, visit www.decc.gov.uk
The villages of 7 central Sefton
★★★★
GUIDE
Saturday, December 11, 2010
PROPERTY 3
... to buying
This home has been designed for life
OUTER SPACE: The well established, landscaped grounds
H
OUSES which boast the phrase “architect designed” can sometimes mean one of two things. Someone has been given free reign to exercise their imagination and creativity to design something so different few of us would want to live in it. Or it can mean the owners have sought professional help to see a dream through to reality and create a home so truly unique and special that it’s practically perfect. And, thankfully, this one is the latter. In a sought after area of Wirral, it’s a property with oodles of room, offering everything anyone could possibly want in their ideal des-res. I challenge anyone not to fall in love with the Prenton property, for sale at £1,399,950 with Davis Beyga Estates. Standing on a substantial, private plot, the house is surrounded by beautiful, landscaped gardens and has a triple garage offering additional office space/granny annex, and an extensive driveway providing ample off-road parking for a number of cars. But that’s nothing compared with the inside! Approaching the house, you are greeted by an imposing entrance which sets the tone for the grandeur of the rest of the property. A bright and spacious entrance hall
by JANET TANSLEY gives access to the main reception rooms which include a large lounge which is fully wired for sound; a delightful sun room more than 30ft in length (which also has underfloor heating so you can still use it at times like now) with stunning views over the gardens; a cosy family room and a formal dining room which has a feature contemporary fireplace and, again, underfloor heating. The luxurious kitchen has every mod con, French doors on two sides, tiled flooring and underfloor heating. And there is also a cloakroom and a downstairs wc. On the first floor, the master bedroom has a separate dressing room and a superb en-suite bathroom. And there are four additional bedrooms, two with en-suites and, to complete the accommodation, there is also a principal family bathroom with a feature freestanding bath. And if that’s not quite enough to impress you... In the basement, there is a cinema room, a gymnasium and sauna,. You could enjoy a workout before settling down to a nice family film. Don’t forget the popcorn! ● For details contact Davis Beyga
STEPS TO HEAVEN: The imposing entrance, above, and, below, the stylish family bathroom
Estates on 0845 834 0388.
With this keyring I thee wed
MOVING into a brand Having purchased a new home is always detached 4-bedroom exciting. “Fairhaven” home on But Stephen Smith Bellway’s Cressington had another proposal Grange development for his girlfriend on (they previously their first day in their shared a flat in new home – marriage! Aigburth) the couple Stephen, assistant reckon it will be a principal at William great place to start Hulmes Grammar married life. School, saved the big “I knew the area question until he and before Bellway started Sarah Godway were building,” says about to cross the Stephen. “We were threshold of their first looking for a quiet home in Cressington family neighbourhood Grange, Garston. and Cressington In a Grange carefully ticked all choreothe right graphed boxes.” move CressStephen ington got down Grange has on bended a choice of knee with house ring in styles and hand, and sizes as soon as including 2, Sarah 3 and 4 turned bedroom around homes after priced from I DO: Stephen goes opening £157,995. on bended knee the front ● For door for more the first time, he information on the popped the question. homes, visit “I was stunned,” www.bellway.co.uk or says Sarah. “It was call the Bellway sales such a special occasion centre on 0151 427 and so out of the blue. 4049. It will certainly be a The sales centre is day I remember.” open Monday & Friday Needless to say, – 10am to 5pm; Sarah accepted Thursday – 10am to Stephen’s proposal 7pm; Saturday & and plans are now Sunday – 11am to afoot with a wedding 5pm and it is closed on ceremony planned in Tuesdays & summer 2012. Wednesdays.
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4 PROPERTY
Saturday, December 11, 2010
GUIDE
★★★★
... to interiors
My First
HOME
Under cover
While the weather outside is frightful, it’s time to make your bedroom delightful, writes Gabrielle Fagan
S
Hollyoaks actress Karen Hassan Where was the family home where you grew up and what was it like? My earliest memories of my family home were from about the age of five. We were moving in to a newly built house at the end of a little cul-de-sac. I remember going to visit the house before it was even finished. It was in Chichester Close in north Belfast. It was one of those streets where all the neighbours were friends and all the kids played together. What is your clearest memory of the house? The sleeping arrangements ... there were three in one bedroom and two in the other. It was always a bit of a squeeze. One room was covered in Bros posters and the other was A-Ha. My two older sisters competed to see who could cover the most wall space. Where was the first house you bought yourself and what did it cost? I am still renting but I remember moving in to my own wee place with an old boyfriend. It wasn’t expensive as we rented it from his family but I loved making it my own home. What made you want to move there? At the moment I’m happy renting but if I do decide to buy it will be because I’m ready to start a family so it would be nice to have a home of our own. What are the important things you look for when buying a house? It would be a garden, something that’s homely and somewhere that has great neighbours. Are you a DIY trier or do you leave it to the experts? Yes, I am a trier; I always have a go – in my first place I installed the washing machine. I do like to decorate but I spend a long time deliberating on what to do. What is the one thing you love most about your current home? Having my own space. BY JANET TANSLEY
NOW, ice and the impending festivities might make you feel the safest place is in bed with the covers over your head! If that’s your inclination, at least make sure your bed is a superb sanctuary, by dressing it with bedding that’s designed to thrill as well as to warm. Getting into bed at the end of the day and facing thin cotton covers, limp duvets and faded throws will simply lower your spirits during this somewhat stressful season. But sinking into a soft bed, dressed with pure cotton or silk sheets and snuggling under thick quilts (yes, they’re back in fashion!) or faux fur throws, won’t just ward off the chills, it will make you feel like a pampered princess. There’s a selection of looks to choose from, but don’t be limited by trends. After all, your bedroom is your personal, private space, so you can experiment with whatever style pleases you, and create a room to guarantee sweet dreams. SKI LODGE SNUG Think cosy log cabins and beds dressed in the traditional colours of the season – cheery red and white – for this jolly look, which owes its inspiration to a Scandinavian influence sweeping through interiors. An Edelweiss bedding set, from La Redoute, is a delight with its slick mix of red and white spotted sheets and folk art patterns. It’s also a steal at £7 for a pillowcase, and a duvet cover from £19. Marks & Spencer’s interpretation of this look is just as good, with a red check pattern bed set, from £35, cuddly red Fair Isle knit throw, £35, and chunky knit cushion, £25. BOUDOIR BABES Those who swan around in slinky, silky nightwear will want a glamorous, statement bed, fit for posing. Kylie Minogue caters for divas with her exquisite Latina bedding, in a flock-patterned satin fabric embellished with diamante, from her Kylie At Home collection. Pillowcase, £20, and single duvet cover, £55, from home store Leekes. Dorma are masters of bed linen and the new Rivello range is a classic design with a modern twist. It’s ultra-luxe with textured jacquard and white soft-touch cotton velvet detailing, edged with a rope trim. Double duvet cover, £100, and there’s also a selection of matching
HEIDI AND CHIC: Get that Alpine effect with Edelweiss oblong pillowcase, £7, square pillowcase, £7, duvet cover, from £19, and Edelweiss fitted sheet, from £9, all from La Redoute pillowcases and boudoir cushions to layer up for cold, wintry nights. SANCTUARY STYLISTS They’re certainly not sleepyheads when it comes to style, and there’s nothing they like better than revamping the bedroom. Plumping for purple is a safe on-trend choice, because it’s predicted by all the experts to still feature strongly right through next year. Asda’s amethyst embroidered flower bedding in plum is excellent value at £15 for a single set, and £20 for a double. Just because the
landscape outside is barren, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy pretty blooms! But forget “mumsy” florals – the most fashionable designs have a painted, artistic feel, and House of Fraser’s Lex bed linen collection for Linea is one of the most attractive. Pillowcase, £10, and double duvet cover, £45. Alternatively, be inspired by the decorative style of Morocco and dress a bed with vividly coloured, highly decorative throws and cushions
IT’S A GEM: amethyst embroidered bedding in plum, £15 for a single set from Asda
from the Alegra bedding selection at John Lewis. Floral patchwork bedspread, £60, and pom pom cushions, £20 for two. SMART SPARE ROOM There’s nothing like an attractive bedroom to make guests feel welcome. Dress the bed or beds stylishly, and provide other home comforts such as a “hottie”, a TV and an electric kettle, which will allow visitors to use the room as a retreat. After all, everyone needs a little privacy, space and time out from the hurly burly of a long family break. Add a touch of luxury with Egyptian cotton white bed linen from The White Company. Their Single Row Cord Bed Linen – pillowcase, from £14, single duvet cover, £45, is rightly one of its best sellers. The Vienne velvet bedspread in natural or silver, from £140, would be the ideal finishing touch. And if you have an “open door” policy, encouraging a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, the smart Roxy sofa bed,
★★★★
Saturday, December 11, 2010
PROPERTY 5
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WESTERN WONDER: Cath Kidston Cowboy single duvet set, £34.99, The Gifted Penguin (www.gifted penguin.co.uk)
SPREAD THE WORD: Alegra pom pom cushion, £20 for a set of two, and Alegra bedspread, £60, John Lewis ROLL UP, ROLL UP: Bed in a Bag, £113.80, from Rice (www.rice.dk)
▼
for a winter warmer
FLOWER POWER: Lex double duvet cover, £45, and pillowcase, £10, from the Linea range at House of Fraser £750, from John Lewis, could be a wise buy. MINI SNOOZERS Encouraging the smallest members of the family to go to bed will probably be quite an achievement during the excitement of the holidays. But fun, new bedding could be a treat, if not sleep-inducing, and it’s an easy way to update a room. Cath Kidston’s prints never disappoint and her retro-inspired Cowboy design is my favourite. The single duvet set, which is reversible
with a red and white polka dot pattern on one side is £34.99, from The Gifted Penguin. Laura Ashley has pretty choices. The new heart-decorated pink and white Carrie bed linen, £50 for a single duvet cover, is charming and would team well with its pink Libby bedspread, £100. Sleepovers with pals are a must and interiors company Rice, which boasts a dazzlingly colourful range, has a Bed in a Bag, £113.80, that’s nifty to carry around and you simply unfold it to use.
COOL YULE: Rivello double duvet cover, left, £100, from Dorma. And, right, Kylie at Home’s Latina bedding set, from £14 for an Oxford pillowcase to £85 for super king quilt cover, from Leekes (www.leekes.co.uk)
BEAT THE VAT INCREASE, BOOK NOW FOR 2011 VISIT OUR FACTORY SHOWROOM AT: UNITS 1-2 HEYSHAM POINT, HEYSHAM RD, LIVERPOOL L30 6UR | TEL: 0151 525 5255 FAX: 0151 525 5254 EMAIL: fkbdirect@aol.co.uk | OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8.30AM - 5.00PM, SATURDAY 10.00AM - 3.00PM
6 PROPERTY
GUIDE
Saturday, December 11, 2010
★★★★
... to home improvement
DIY News
How to... keep winter’s chill out of your home
DIY chain B&Q is running ● two festive competitions, with prizes of a £500 gift card for
each winner and a £250 gift card for each runner-up. The first competition is to find the UK’s best and worst Christmas light displays, both indoor and out. You need to submit a photo, along with a few sentences about why the display’s so good or bad. For the second competition, B&Q wants to hear about your most memorable Christmas story or recipe (you should include a LIGHT CHRISTMAS: Have you put on a winning display? short description of what makes your recipe so special, as well as If the wood you’re planing is of the cut – the Xact can cut the recipe itself). pretty deep, which is really not deep enough, you can For more details and to enter, go remove the plate and use the handy when fitting a door. to the Social Hub section of There’s a large dustbag, Xact as a conventional www.diy.com. Closing date for both handheld plane. The handle which can be fitted to either competitions is January 6, 2011. the left or right side so it and knob you grip when doesn’t get in your way, which planing are both rubberised If you’ve ever fitted a is clever. Other well for comfort and the knob also door, you’ll know that thought-out features include allows you to alter the depth planing it to size is a pain. the two-button start and the Using an electric plane helps, base-plate stand, which folds but they have their away as you start planing to downsides too. Not so prevent damage to both the with the Xact from blade and the wood. Worx’s new Icon The 710W Worx Xact range, which has a Perpendicular Planer costs vertical metal plate £92.48 from B&Q and comes to guide you so with a three-year warranty. inadvertent angled or undulating PLANE AND SIMPLE: The Worx planing is no longer Xact a problem.
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● LOFT insulation doesn’t have to be nasty, itchy stuff – you can get lots of different kinds, including lagging covered in foil-like wrapping so it’s nicer to lay, and eco versions made of things such as wool and recycled paper. The recommended depth for loft insulation is 270mm, but this can depend on the type of material, so check the packet. If your loft’s already lagged, you can lay new insulation on top of what’s there until it’s the right depth. If everyone in the UK topped up their loft insulation to 270mm, we’d save about £520m a year, according to the Energy Saving Trust. ● One of the draughtiest types of flooring is sanded or painted period floorboards. One solution is to take up the boards – an ambitious job for a DIYer – or get underneath them, if you can, to lay insulation. This may be possible if you have a cellar underneath or if the space between the ground and floor is large enough for you to get in. ● Alternatively, you could try filling the gaps between the boards to stop draughts coming up from below. You can use a number of materials for this, including thin strips of cork or wood, and sawdust mixed with glue. ● You can get various DIY secondary glazing options, but probably the cheapest and easiest to fit is plastic film, which you can buy online or from DIY stores. Try Secondary Glazing Film, a pack of fixing tape, instructions and 5.93 square metres of film, £7.14, Wickes (www.wickes.co.uk). ● Another inexpensive measure is to apply weatherstripping to your doors and windows to reduce draughts. Weatherstripping is tape that seals the gaps between the moving parts of a window or door and is especially good for period ones. It comes in different shapes and materials – look for one with adhesive backing because this makes installation relatively quick and easy.
Seasonal Task WHEN any snow’s gone, check the exterior of your home for damage. Fix any problems (or get a professional in) and do what you can to protect your home from further damage, such as ensuring guttering and drains are clear of leaves and garden debris.
Ask The Expert Q Is there a way of making my radiators work more efficiently? A Make sure you’ve bled them to expel any trapped air. You’ll also get more out of them if you fit radiator foil behind
them to bounce heat back into the room. You can buy rolls of foil and foil panels made for the job, but you could use kitchen foil if you can’t get hold of any straight away.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
★★★★
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PROPERTY 7
GUIDE ... to neighbourhoods Why live in... Central Sefton Villages
VILLAGE LIFE: The day draws to an end on the beach at Hightown and, inset, the frost gives Little Crosby village a picture postcard appeal
T
HESE days, we find ourselves living in increasingly urbanised areas. Our towns and cities are a far cry from the traditional English villages with a green, a church and a shop. The suburban sprawl seems to go on forever but, in between the settlements that link Liverpool and Southport there are a number of smaller villages that offer a more relaxed pace and the hint of a return to that idyllic image of the past. Just a mile outside the popular area of Crosby, the criss-crossing of roads and houses gives way to fields and a quite different, more rural, landscape appears. Continue along the B1593 out of Crosby and you’ll soon reach the very pretty village of Little Crosby. Immediately, the place harks back to a bygone era, with a green space at its centre, a handful of houses
RUSHTONS
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Runnells Lane, Sefton L23 1TR
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Telephone 0151 924 2365 CHRISTMAS CLOSING TIMES CLOSED Christmas Eve At 2pm And RE-OPENS Wednesday 29 December
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and cottage industries around about and the village church watching over it all. Little Crosby is perhaps the oldest Roman Catholic village in England and was once the domain of the Blundell family, whose name still looms large in the area. There are around 50 houses in the hamlet, plus a cafe, museum, plus St Mary’s RC Church and its school. An even older settlement in the area is that of Ince Blundell. The village itself lies between the hamlets of Lady Green, where there is a large garden centre, and Carr Houses, which boasts a number of desirable homes, renovated from 17th century barns and cottages. Ince Blundell is thought to be the oldest settlement in Sefton and its name is said to mean ‘island in the marsh’. On a drive through Ince Blundell, and out into the
FAMILY TIES: Ince Blundell Hall, now a nursing home, was once the seat of the Blundell family
surrounding woods and fields, you can get an idea of where the name came from. The village itself has a number of modern houses and also Ince Blundell Hall, the family home of the Blundells, dating from 1720. A listed building, it is now a nursing home. North of Little Crosby and south of Formby is the coastal village of Hightown. Another old village, this has a genuine village green situated near the village pub and railway station which is on the Hunts Cross to Southport line. Hightown is much bigger than Ince Blundell or Little Crosby, with more typical suburban housing plus many larger, character houses too. Hightown has its own sports club, the Hightown Club, offering bowls, cricket, squash, tennis and football facilities. Blundellsands Sailing Club is also based here with its club house on the foreshore. On the beach nearby, are the remains of an ancient forest. The village is also close to the Territorial Army’s Altcar Rifle Range. Recently, in the L38 postcode which covers Hightown and Ince Blundell, detached houses have sold for between £172,000 and £437,000 so there’s quite a range available. Little Crosby’s properties come under Crosby’s L23 postcode. So, if you want to experience the joys of village living, with the benefits of being just a short drive from Crosby or Formby, you might find Little Crosby, Ince Blundell or Hightown are what you’ve been looking for.
8 PROPERTY
HOME Saturday, December 11, 2010
★★★★
of the Week
On the Market ●
PROPERTY incentives just keep getting better and better. With the help of Government funds, eligible customers have the chance to snap up a brand new home at Cressington Heath, near Garston, for just 70% of the price. Lesley Myers, area sales manager for Redrow Homes, says: “The average age of first time buyers purchasing without financial assistance from their parents is now 37. And only recently the Home Builders Federation (HBF) said the average first time buyer would need to save every penny of their earnings for over two years to get on the ladder. “All this makes depressing reading, but HomeBuy Direct could help them buy a home of their own sooner than they thought – and without the need for a hefty deposit.” HomeBuy Direct enables certain groups of purchasers, including first time buyers, families in need of extra space and those starting over after a change of circumstances, to take out an equity loan for up to 30% of the purchase price of selected properties. Jointly funded by Redrow and the Homes and Communities Agency, the loan is interest-free for the first five years and can be repaid when the customer has more funds available or they come to resell. HomeBuy Direct is currently available on selected contemporary homes at Cressington Heath. With the valuable assistance, a four-bedroom property on the market from £182,995 could be snapped up for an initial outlay of only £128,096. To find out more visit the sales office, open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5.30pm. Alternatively, call 0151 494 2575 or log on to www.redrow. co.uk/developments/ cressington-heath.
Answer to a knotty problem for families
W
HEN we saw this was one of Sutton Kersh’s properties of the week, we could see why they had chosen it. And we were so impressed at Big Property, we decided to make it ours too. This lovely semi-detached in Knotty Ash is a real gem and at £112,500, it’s an absolute bargain too! A well presented and maintained home with two reception rooms and kitchen, three bedrooms and a driveway, it will be a fantastic find for someone looking for a family home or even a couple looking for a bit more space. The entrance hall has a laminate floor and the stairs to the first floor lead from it. Also with laminated flooring is the lounge, which has a feature fire, and the
by JANET TANSLEY dining room, from which there are double glazed patio doors. An arch leads into the fully fitted and tiled monochrome kitchen – very on trend! – which also boasts a built-in oven, hob and hood. Three decent sized bedrooms lead from the landing, as does the bathroom which has a panelled bath with overhead shower, pedestal hand wash basin, low level wc, tiled floor and tiled walls. The rear garden has a paved area and is laid to lawn with planted borders. For more information contact Sutton Kersh on 0151 256 7837 or log on to www.suttonkersh.co.uk Just don’t get trampled in the rush!
ROOM TO LIVE: The modern living room and, inset, the light and airy main bedroom
CHOICE ★★★★
Agents’
Mossley Hill, £279,950 OFFERED for sale with the benefit of no ongoing chain, this delightful semidetached property provides good-sized accommodation ideal for a family. Outside there is off-road parking, a driveway and an integrated garage to the front plus attractive gardens to the rear. Inside, there is an entrance hall which gives access to the main reception rooms. These include a well-proportioned lounge with fireplace and an elegant dining room which has patio doors leading outside. To complete the ground floor there is a fully fitted kitchen comprising a good range of units and work surfaces. To the first floor are three bedrooms, all of a good size, and a bathroom. ● Venmores, 0151 733 9000
Woolton, £225,000 SET within a sought-after residential area close to a wealth of amenities, this attractive detached dormer bungalow occupies a substantial corner plot. Surrounded by gardens on three sides, the property also has a driveway and a detached garage. Inside, the accommodation is deceptively large and briefly comprises an entrance hall, a lounge with a feature fireplace, a dining room which has stripped wood flooring and a fully fitted dining kitchen complete with an excellent range of units, work tops, appliances and a separate dining area. There is also a ground floor bathroom and a double bedroom. Up on the first floor the master bedroom has a vaulted ceiling and an en-suite shower enclosure. There is also a third bedroom and a bathroom. ● Your Move Matthews, 0151 734 4911
Sefton Park, £190,000
Saturday, December 11, 2010
PROPERTY 9
Liverpool
SITUATED close to Sefton Park and Lark Lane, this duplex ground floor apartment benefits from being offered for sale with no ongoing chain. Inside, there is a communal entrance hall which leads to the apartment’s selfcontained reception hall. The apartment comprises a spacious open plan living, room which has a bay window, and a modern fully fitted kitchen. There are two good-sized bedrooms with a stunning spiral staircase leading up to the sumptuous master suite, which includes a well-proportioned bedroom, a walk-in wardrobe, a separate dressing area and an en-suite shower room. A family bathroom completes the property. Outside, there are private grounds and an allocated parking space. ● Venmores, 0151 733 9000
Princes Park, £65,000
Allerton, £235,000
ENJOYING a superb setting within a modern purpose-built development, this attractive studio apartment overlooks picturesque Princes Park. The development stands in delightful communal gardens and has allocated off-road parking. There is secure intercom entry into the development and the apartment has its own self-contained entrance. Inside, there is an entrance hall and a good sized, open plan living room and bedroom which has windows overlooking the gardens and Princes Park beyond. There is a modern bathroom and a new fully fitted kitchen which has a good range of contemporary units, matching work surfaces and integrated appliances. ● Davis Beyga Estates, 0845 834 0388
LOCATED in the popular area of Allerton Road, this traditional mid-terraced property offers surprisingly spacious accommodation. Inside, there is a reception hall, a front lounge with a feature fireplace and a bay window, a rear sitting room which has an original cast iron open fireplace, and an elegant dining room. To complete the ground floor, there is a stylish fully fitted kitchen which has a good range of units, matching work surfaces and integrated appliances. Upstairs, the master bedroom has a fireplace and there are a further three bedrooms and a family bathroom. Outside is a delightful quarry tiled yard to the rear. ● Your Move Matthews, 0151 734 4911
Huyton, £85,000
City centre, £89,995
Anfield, £67,500
OFFERED for sale with the benefit of no ongoing chain, this attractive semidetached property is situated in a wellknown residential area popular with families. Inside, the property provides good-sized living space, and on the ground floor there is a reception hall, a spacious living room with laminate flooring and a large kitchen/dining room which includes a comprehensive range of contemporary units, matching work surfaces and fully integrated appliances. To the first floor there are two wellproportioned bedrooms and a modern family bathroom. Outside, there is ample off-road parking and delightful gardens to the front and the rear of the property. ● Davis Beyga Estates, 0845 834 0388
SITUATED within walking distance of Liverpool city centre, this modern two bedroom apartment is located on the second floor of an attractive modern development. The apartment benefits from no ongoing chain as well as gas central heating and double glazing. Inside, there is a self-contained entrance hall which leads into the open plan living room, where there are patio doors leading onto a Juliet balcony. There is also a modern fully fitted kitchen and the master bedroom has an en-suite shower room. There is a second good-sized bedroom and a modern bathroom. Outside, there are communal grounds and an allocated parking space. ● Sutton Kersh, 0151 236 2332
CONVENIENTLY located within close proximity to a range of local amenities, this attractive three bedroom terraced property also benefits from gas central heating and double glazing. Inside, the accommodation has been maintained to a high standard. There is a vestibule, an elegant living room which has a feature fireplace and wood flooring and a formal dining room which also has wood flooring. A kitchen completes the ground floor and comes fully fitted. Upstairs, there are three wellproportioned bedrooms and a modern family bathroom. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the standard of accommodation this property offers. ● Entwistle Green, 0151 220 4443
10 HOMES
Saturday, December 11, 2010
ECHO Homes
homes-merseyside.co.uk
227 3030
Property Wanted Fast Sale Property Buyers
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QUICK DECISION TO QUICK COMPLETION
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Probate or inherited property Emigration or relocation Divorce or seperation Redundancy, ill health or loss of income Stuck on the market - and cannot wait forever • Repossesion or serious debts
ANY OF THE ABOVE APPLIES
WE CAN HELP YOU! Our Services Include
• Repossessions Stopped - its never too late • Best Cash Prices Paid
• Rent Back - rent and length of tenancy to suit your needs • Tenancy contracts and guarantees available in advance • Options for tenants to buy back
I WILL BUY YOUR HOUSE Local, friendly service. Call Chris: 08000 811 813 (24hrs)
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Unlike our Competitors • We Answer Calls 24/7 • Website for Further Info • No Legal Fees No Hidden Charges - guaranteed • All Areas Any Condition • Fast Fair and Professional
REPOSSESSIONS STOPPED 0151 259 0823 FAST CASH FOR PROPERTY 0151 428 1800
Visit us online
Accommodation To Let
kwiksaleproperty.com
FURNISHED ROOMS £70pw C/tax water, gas elec incl. I.D. req’d. No DSS 07852 575777
DON’T DEAL WITH AMATEURS, FOR A GUARANTEED QUICK SALE WITH NO NASTY SURPRISE - SPEAK TO THE PROFESSIONALS. FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION, NO PRESSURE CHAT - CALL FAST SALE PROPERTY BUYERS FREE NOW
TEL: 0800 032 7033 OR 0151 909 3759 Accommodation To Let
Northwood 0151 256 1035
FIRST MONTHS RENT HALF PRICE IF YOU MOVE IN BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Homes For Sale
Accommodation To Let
BEAUTIFUL 4 BEDROOM HOUSE
WALTON & AINTREE OVER 55’S ONLY 1 Bed Flats to let New build, C/heating Lift, Intercom Elec Gates, Gardens £99pw Tel: 0151 428 0226
Off Allerton Road, stripped floors, feature fireplaces, high ceilings, sash windows, new central heating, beautifully presented
£267,000 07976 546399 PUBLIC NOTICE Sutton Kersh are now in receipt of an offer for the sum of £65,000 for 12 Hardy Street L19. Anyone wishing to place an offer on the property should contact Sutton Kersh, 40−42 Allerton Road, L18 1LN, 0151 734 0666 before exchange of contracts.
Land For Sale / Let 6 ACRES OF LAND off Long Lane Aintree L9, (nr Taskers). All enquiries to Ryan & Son 0151 260 0222
Accommodation To Let LUXURY WATERSIDE APARTMENTS
MARINERS WHARF
2 bed apt unfurn ......£450pcm 1 bed apt unfurn ......£400pcm
Lovely apts, riverside/marina views. Parking & landscaped gardens. Popular bar & restaurant,
Contact Laura: 0161 434 5225 or Mike: 07775 697796
www.wrenproperties.co.uk WATERLOO, BOOTLE, SEAFORTH & ANFIELD Furn rms & studios fm £65pw. All bills inc bband. No Dep. No DSS. Over 25. 0151 928 9280
L24 FANTASTIC 3 BED HOUSE New Refurb New Kitchen & bathroom, Gardens, dg & gch. Dss welcome. 07968 529818
WALLASEY VILLAGE 3 Bed Semi with Gardens, Full Refurb, New GCH/PVC, Lounge, Dining Room, Fitted Kitchen, Off Rd Parking. DSS ok with Dep. 0151 652 5142 / 07711 823914 L18 Rooms to let, nr Penny Lane, Dbl bedrms, com Kitch, lounge, in fully refurbed prop £60pw exc bills, profs only, 25+ 0151 428 0226
BENTLEY RD TOXTETH6 bed semi, fully furn, CH, wood flooring, front and rear gdns, large spacious rooms, suit profs/ students/family £150pw. 07884 233362 LIVERPOOL ROYAL QUAY 2 Bed fully furnished flat with balcony & fantastic views, private secure parking, must be viewed. £650pcm. 0151 652 5142 / 07770 636332 L4 NEWARK ST 3 Bed CH 07801 065219
L9 WALTON PARK 1 Bed flat CH 07801 065219
L9 GREY RD 5 Bed CH 07801 065219
L9 BAKEWELL GROVE 3 Bed CH 07801 065219
HOUSE TO SHARE 3 bedroom house, good location, close to Stanley Road, L20 9BX, £45 pw. 07780 207207
L4 £395pcm 3 Bed Mid Terr, U/F, DG, GCH L15 £395pcm 2 Bed Mid Terr, U/F, DG, GCH L12 £450pcm 2 Bed Apt, U/F, EH, Parking L14 £495pcm 3 Bed End Terr, U/F, Parking, Garden L10 £495pcm 3 Bed Mid Terr, U/F, DG, GCH, Parking, Garden L6 £550pcm 4 Bed Mid Terr, FF, DG, GCH, Yard
FLANAGAN PROPERTY SERVICES APARTMENTS TO RENT IN L6, L13 & L20 1 & 2 Bedrooms For Mature People No Children or Pets Please Contact Maria Hill
0151 521 3080 ( Press option 3 ) to arrange viewing
NR SEFTON PARK Croxteth Rd. 1 bed fully furnished flat with wood flooring, gch, dg, off road parking, £360 pcm, no DSS. 07884 233362.
LANDLORDS flat rate management fees for all properties, £40pm. Call LUV2LET now for details 0151 228 2801 PRESTWOOD RD DOVECOT 3 bed unfurn house, GCH, gdns, DSS ok, £120 pw, £400 dep req’d. 07917 033536. CITY CENTRE Brand New 2 bed furn flats.Students or profs. Fr £550pcm 0151 264 0019 or 07712 622208 WEST DERBY Abbeyfield Dr. Newly refurbed 3 bed house, gch, dg, over 25’s, g’tors, Dss ok. £595pcm 07879 463042 L15, LANGDALE RD superior 1 bed unfurn flat for working prof only. £390pcm plus bills 0151 727 3153 HUYTON Kingsheath Avenue, recently refurbished 3 bed semi, front/back garDen, GCH, £500pcm. 07976 655980. S T O D D A R T R D L4, 2 bed terrace, ch, carpets, blinds. £325pcm. G’tor & refs req’d. 0151 298 1289 GLOUCESTER RD L20 3 bed terr, gch, alarm, new decor, g’tor reqd. £475pcm. 0151 298 1289
LITHERLAND & ANFIELD 2 & 3 bed terraced houses. Dss ok, no deposit req’d with g’tor 0151 928 9280 BOOTLE L20 3 bed house, DG, GCH, new carpets and kitchen £475pcm. Dave 07766 018767 L4 & L6 Rooms in lux shared house would suit mature person from £55pw all incl. No DSS. 07803 082999/ 260 7980 FAZAKERLEY 2 bed semi, cul− de−sac, off road pkg, gdns, GCH, DG, dep+g’tr needed £500pcm. 07732 672030 L6 0BU Lampeter Rd. Superb spacious 3 bed terr house, gch. dg £450pcm DSS accepted. Tel: 07729 175138 L8 Devonshire Rd 2 bed u/f flat, would suit 1 or 2 quiet working profs £390pcm plus bills 0151 727 3153 GARSTON 2 bed terr, ready Jan 2011, newly refurbed, £550pcm, DSS considered. 07703 399497.
AINTREE 2 bed house, lovely, dg, new decor, g’tor req’d £113pw 07917 227449 HOUSES & FLATS To rent L4, L5, L11, L15, L32. DSS OK. Call 0151 228 2801 T U E B R O O K 3/4 bed semi, gardens, drive, dg & gch 07814 033569
2 BED FLAT Sheil Rd. L6. Newly refurbished. £100pw. 079711 63065 STUDIO APT Off Walton Breck Rd. DSS welcome. 07762 483204. NORTHUMBERLAND GR L8 nr city centre refurbd 3 bed house dg ch 0151 291 0601 WHISTON 3 bed semi, front/ back gdns, new refurb. DSS ok. £575 pcm. 07710 815649.
WAVERTREE lovely 2 bed terr, GCH, DG, £490pcm, no DSS, dep/refs req. 07949 507140.
WALTON, BRECK ROAD 4 bed house, GCH DG, excellent order. 07850 912394
WALTON AREA 2 bed terr, £100pw, DSS accepted. 0151 281 7031 or 07717 873955.
BOOTLE 3 bed house. Nice clean. GCH/DG. 0790 5857232
L 1 1 Carr Lane 3 bed hse £110pw No DSS 07803 082999/ 260 7980 THE COLLEGIATE Shaw St. 1 bed fully furnished flat, £600pcm. 0151 260 4411 L13 Sark Rd. Fully mod, 3 bed, gch/dg, new kit/bath, £550 pcm, no DSS. 07877 754021. L21 LONGFIELD ROAD 2 bed house, lam floor, ch, dep req. £450pcm. Tel: 07810 851 334 CROSBY fully furnished bedsit, own kitchen. 40+ £55pw No DSS. 0151 281 1422 1 BED FLATS Walton & Orrell Lane, GCH, new decor. 07923 123046
L6 2 bed hse £110p. No DSS 07803 082999/ 260 7980 L20 2 bed, DHSS ok. £450. Call 0151 356 7551 L36 3 BED HSE Dg, gch, £525pcm. 07967 314 769 BUCKINGHAM ROAD L13. 1B Flat. 07894 540845 L5 3 bed end terr, DSS ok, £400 pcm. 07840 038298. L15 2 Bed, DHSS ok. £500. 0151 356 7551 L 1 3 3 bed terr, DG, GCH, £495pcm. 07917 446799. L I L L Y R D L7 1 bed flat. £75pw. 0151 734 1112
L6 August Rd 3 bed furn hse £430pcm suit 3 people sharing. No DSS. 0151 263 1774
W A L T O N 5 Bed, DHSS ok. £650. 0151 356 7551
BOOTLE 1 & 2 bed flats. DSS ok with guarantor, NO deposit required 0151 928 9280
NETHERTON modern 3 bed semi, gdns. 07809 548 346
L8 2 bed, modernised, gch, dg, deposit/ref’s req. £400 pcm. 07877 754021. L6 3rd person to share 3 bed house en suite, from £80pw 07803 082999/ 260 7980 ANFIELD 2 bed houses, gch & dg from £95pw Dss ok 07960 558124 ORRELL PK Nr Station 3 bed terrace fitted kit GCH £600pcm No DSS 07957 636549
H U Y T O N 2 bed house £450pcm 07863 179209 P R E S C O T 2 bed flat, fully refurb. 07817 214 010 CLAREMONT RDL21 1 bd flt refurb £75pw 0151 734 1112 BAGOT ST L15 1 bed flat. £90pw. 0151 734 1112 L7 4 bed, DHSS ok. 0151 356 7551
HOMES ★★★★
New by SUE KELBRICK
F
OR many older people the first ice and snow mark the beginning of a season of worry. Heating the house, leaking roofs, frozen pipes and leaves to clear from the gutters – the list of winter jobs goes on. If you are on your own, or are struggling to cope with the maintenance of your home, it can be daunting and costly to get through the winter, especially with energy bills expected to rise by as much as 10%. If the prospect of another grim winter is making you consider an easier way of life, then a purposebuilt retirement living apartment from McCarthy and Stone could be the answer. These developments offer low maintenance, energy efficient apartments, security and companionship with like-minded people. McCarthy and Stone’s regional sales and marketing director Fiona Brooks, explained: “Many of our prospective purchasers currently live in larger second-hand properties, which can be expensive to run. By moving to a new, purpose-built McCarthy and Stone retirement property, homeowners can benefit from a range of energy saving features as standard, such as double glazing, cavity wall insulation and low energy light
Saturday, December 11, 2010
PROPERTY 11
Guide
STAYING WARM: Residents of McCarthy and Stone’s retirement apartments enjoy a chat and a coffee without having to go out into the cold. Below, the developer’s Hoylake apartments
Avoid winter blues
fittings. These features make modern homes significantly more energy efficient than older properties.” She went on: “Our retirement living developments offer a choice of one and two bedroom apartments, communal gardens and managed exteriors – meaning no leaking roofs, fallen leaves or frozen
pipes to worry about. However, residents still retain ownership of their property, have their own front door and can continue life as independently as they did before.” For some, winter brings a different problem. No matter how sociable and confident you are, when the weather stops you from getting out of your home you can
become isolated. McCarthy and Stone’s retirement developments can help prevent this, too, by providing residents’ lounges. McCarthy and Stone is currently offering a range of one and two bedroom apartments across the North West. ● Call 0800 919132 or log on to www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk
Bridgewater Park, Brownbill Bank, Netherley, L27 7AE
SO86% LD
With Miller Homes you’ve got every incentive to move right now.
12 MONTHS’ FREE MORTGAGE PROTECTION. for reservations in December.††
PLUS
Pay from 75% NOW, OWN 100% with this Shared Equity Scheme.*
OR
Buy and sell in one easy move with our Home Exchange Scheme.**
OR
Whatever you save for your deposit we’ll match it with our Deposit Match Scheme.†
Homes with a great deal going for them. • The Kitchener: 3 bedroom home just £125,950 • Carpets and turf to rear garden included at no extra cost • No stamp duty payable for first time buyers Open Thursday to Monday, 10.30am to 5.30pm
Tel: 0800 840 8522
0800 840 8522 | www.millerhomes.co.uk YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP THE REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT
††Miller Homes will pay up to £600 towards the cost of mortgage payment protection insurance cover provided that cover is arranged through a Miller Homes recommended independent Mortgage Advisor. Payment will be made following legal completion direct to the insurance provider.These offers may be withdrawn at any time. No cash alternatives are available. *MiWAY is subject to status.Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply. Credit provided by Miller Homes Limited of Miller Homes, 2 Lochside View, Edinburgh Park EH12 9DH. Credit is subject to security over your new home. See www.millerhomes.co.uk/miway for full details. **MiSWAP is the name of Miller Homes’ standard Home Exchange scheme, consequently the swap could be a Home Exchange. MiSWAP does not guarantee a like for like exchange. †Miller homes will pay up to 5% of the purchase price of the selected plot, to match the customer’s deposit, as agreed at point of reservation.To be eligible for the deposit match the customer must be able to prove at point of settlement that they are in possession of the agreed deposit amount. Customer must pay the standard reservation charge on their selected plot. Deposit Match value will be deducted from total sale price on legal completion. *†**All offers are plot specific and subject to Miller Homes’ standard terms and conditions. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and prices and availability are correct at time of going to print. Photography represents a typical Miller Homes’ exterior and interior.
12 PROPERTY
Saturday, December 11, 2010
homezone
★★★★
Taylor Wimpey: Speakman Gardens
advertising feature
Go on, make the move
AFFORDABLE: The Speakman Gardens development in Prescot
F
OR many first-time buyers getting a foot on the property ladder may feel like an uphill struggle, with the deposit alone seemingly out of reach. But your rental days could soon be over, as Taylor Wimpey North West has the perfect solution at its Speakman Gardens development in Prescot. The leading housebuilder is offering its Easystart shared equity scheme to first-time buyers wanting to make the escape from the rental rut into home ownership. Under the scheme purchasers can buy 100% of the property for just 85% of the price; all they need is a 5% deposit.
This means a two bedroom apartment, on the market for £84,958, can be snapped up for as little as £79,500! With prices this low the deposit you need is far more achievable than the tens of thousands of pounds many firsttime buyers face having to save – you need less than £4,000! And if snapping up a new home isn’t a big enough present this Christmas, anyone reserving before December 25 will receive a home entertainment system worth £1,500!
Live life on another level
If you’re looking for plenty of house for your hard-earned money, the development’s townhouses
could be right up your street. With living space over three floors, the three bedroom Hemsworth, priced from £157,950 (£134,258 through Easystart), provides complete flexibility. The ground floor comprises an open plan living/dining room with French door to the back garden, a contemporary kitchen, cloakroom and understairs cupboard. On the first floor is a bedroom, main bathroom and a further room which could be a study or a nursery. The master bedroom, which enjoys its own en-suite bathroom, is nestled in the eaves of the second floor. Two private parking spaces
A new home for Christmas ...entertainment included!
M A DREA OR HOME FHAN LESS T 00! £80,0
You could buy an apartment at this stunning development for less than £80,000 with our easystart shared equity scheme.* You’ll own 100% of your home for 85% of the price now, with a 10 year interest free loan for the outstanding amount. Reserve before Christmas and we’ll include a fabulous home entertainment package worth around £1,500.**
Less than £4,000 deposit needed! *Offers available on selected plots and developments only, visit our website taylorwimpey.co.uk/easystart for full details of the terms and conditions of the offers, or request full details from your local Taylor Wimpey office. **Home entertainment package included upon legal completion, subject to availability. Prices correct at time of going to press. Image shows typical Taylor Wimpey homes.
complete this property. In addition to the apartments and townhouses there is also a collection of four bedroom detached homes available from £209,950.
An easier way to move
If you’re keen to move now but are struggling to sell your current home, Taylor Wimpey’s Part Exchange scheme may provide the solution. Under the scheme, Taylor Wimpey acts as the cash buyer, meaning you can move without the worry of a buyer’s chain collapsing. ● The development is open Thurs-Mon, 10am-5.30pm, call 0845 0718832 or logo onto www. taylorwimpey.co.uk/northwest.
THE FACTS DEVELOPMENT: Speakman Gardens LOCATION: Prescot DEVELOPER: Taylor Wimpey HOUSE TYPES: Various CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 0845 0718832 WEBSITE: www.taylorwimpey.co.uk
Prescott
Speakman Gardens, Merseyside, L34 5NQ to 5 bedroom 2 bedroom1 apartments from from homes £79,500* (easystart price) £139,950 Other 3 & 4 bedroom homes £129,158* (easystart price) Marketing Suite now open daily 9.30am – 5.00pm Sales centre visit and Forinformation more information Show Apartment open our website or call Thursday – Monday 10am – 5.30pm
0845 8829 071 8382 0845 672
taylorwimpey.co.uk taylorwimpey.co.uk