Moor to Sea Summer 2015

Edition No. 18 2015

PROPERTIES IN

DEVON AND CORNWALL

ECO

The Best Independent Property Advice from Local Experts

EFFICIENCY

BENEFITS OF

FOREIGN

INTERIOR DESIGN

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN

moortosea

Eco technology at its best

PROPERTIES Should you invest your pension?

TAVISTOCK LAUNCESTON . YELVERTON . OKEHAMPTON . KINGSBRIDGE TAVISTOCK OFFICE: 01822 .612345

email: tavistock@mansbridgebalment.co.uk PLYMOUTH . BERE PENINSULA . NORTH PLYMOUTH

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We supply Farrow & Ball paints and wallpapers.

These finest quality paints and beautiful hand crafted wallpapers come together to create exquisite interiors.

Tavistock kitchen showroom 10 inspirational kitchen scenarios to view with working integrated appliances.

Full kitchen design service using the latest software to create your bespoke 3D design proposal.

Free home visit - with no obligation.

Range of appliances available separately or as part of your design.

We offer full project management and can handle any internal alterations, plumbing and electrical work.

Kitchens

Appliances

Showroom Unit 2 Pixon Court Crelake Industrial Estate Tavistock Devon PL19 9AZ

01822 617240

Opening times 9-5 Monday - Friday 9-3 Saturday

charlesgraykitchens.co.uk 2

info@charlesgraykitchens.co.uk

Welcome to the world of Mansbridge Balment.

Over the following pages you will find a wonderful selection of some of the finest properties across our region. From the rolling countryside of the South Hams, through the bustling streets of Plymouth and the delights of the Barbican, to the tumbling moorland streams and meandering Tamar Valley, from the rugged peaks of Dartmoor to the equally rugged north Cornish coast, the Mansbridge Balment staff are dedicated to helping you with your requirements.

Last year we introduced the new and distinctive branding that has proved an instant success. Many of our offices underwent a transformation to maximise the effectiveness of this new look, and new ‘for sale’ and ‘to let’ boards arrived on the scene.

Based in Tavistock we have opened a new lettings business, already proving to be highly successful allowing us to offer a more complete service to our residential clients, many of whom will need both lettings and sales services at one point or another.

The launch of our ‘Country & Equestrian’ brand has been extremely successful and our portfolio has grown significantly.

Headed by Michael Jones MRICS, this

distinctive addition to our branding offers a specialised service to owners of country property with a focus on those suited to equine pursuits. Michael has a detailed knowledge and understanding of this aspect of the property market, working alongside his colleagues in the branches to ensure that we achieve the best possible coverage, whether that be national or London-based marketing and advertising.

The rise of ‘internet only’ estate agency offerings, will only scratch the surface of what a genuine estate agency practice can offer. A lack of local knowledge and experience will often result in the difference between selling a property or not selling, letting or not letting, achieving or not achieving. There is a perception that estate agents are ‘all the same, offering the same service’, something that simply isn’t true as people are increasingly discovering. At the time of publication Mansbridge Balment are rated within the top 50 firms across the country (www.allagents.co.uk) from more than 13,000. Surely a good place to start when considering who you entrust to sell, probably, your most valuable asset. Who is looking after yours?

Contents

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60

60 Gardening

21 Aerial Photography

70 Eco House

30 Interior Design 50 Charity - A Helping Hand

PLYMOUTH CITY

OKEHAMPTON

YELVERTON

NORTH PLYMOUTH

LAUNCESTON

BERE PENINSULA

KINGSBRIDGE

LETTINGS

01822 840606

Nick Henderson MANAGING DIRECTOR

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TAVISTOCK

01822 855055

We also recognise the need to proactively offer our properties and services, which is why we have increased the printing and distribution of this ever-popular magazine.

You may be surprised where you can find Moor to Sea with Mansbridge Balment!

One of the reasons for the success of Mansbridge Balment, and our present ranking amongst our peers, is that we

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01822 612345

continue to innovate and look at ways to improve our service. This service now includes the ability to provide a bespoke HD film of the property using the latest steady cam and aerial drone technology. High level photography has been available for some time, but the freedom that this equipment brings when used by experts, gives a truly three dimensional view of the property and its surroundings, bringing it to life in a unique way to prospective buyers. As the use of tablets, smart phones, internet televisions and the like continues to increase, so this form of presenting and viewing property becomes increasingly important.

WELCOME

Welcome...

01752 229292 01752 791333 01548 857879

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81 Property Taxes & Pension Advice

01837 52371

01566 770888 01822 617171

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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PR

PR

plymouth removers

Removals • storage • shipping

STORAGE FACILITIES GLOBAL SHIPPING SECURE TRUSTED QUALITY PROFESSIONAL

At Plymouth Removers, we aim to provide you with a relaxing, helpful and dedicated removals service, across the UK, into Europe and internationally. We make sure that all of our staff are insured, trained to the highest standards, and are friendly and professional at all times.

01752 600447

67-69 St Modwen Road Plymouth PL6 8LH

www.plymouthremovers.co.uk

STORAGE OF FURNITURE AND PERSONAL EFFECTS

BS EN 14873

HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE REMOVALS

BS EN 12522

Pl y m o u t h • K ingsbridge • Exe t e r • Ba rn s t a p l e • Ok e h a m p t o n • L a u n c e s t o n • Tr u ro

Mansbridge Balment have been at the forefront of innovative independent estate agency in the region for nearly 45 years and we pride ourselves on providing the best quality professional support and advice to our clients.

During that time, the company has learned where the business is likely to develop and grow through constant re-assessment of local, regional and national market conditions. The increasing importance of the country property market, with the individual nature of each property, requires dedicated skills and expertise which has resulted in our Country & Equestrian property service overseen by Michael Jones our specialist, as the most successful and largest independent sales teams in the area.

Properties included in our Country Equestrian portfolio:

Farmland and Woodland Pony Paddocks Rural Retreats One of a small number of rural chartered surveyors in the south west actively specialising in the valuation and sale of all types of country property, Michael has over 12 years’ experience dealing solely with this market being a rural chartered surveyor and having previously managed extensive rural estates. Michael is also a registered RICS valuer and can provide formal property valuations for taxation and other purposes.

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN

Country & Equestrian

For a free property appraisal contact your local office or Michael directly on 07799 327171 or mjones@mansbridgebalment.co.uk

Country Houses

MICHAEL JONES

Homes With Equestrian Facilities Farms and Estates Smallholdings Farm Holiday Cottage Complexes Livery Yards

Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN 9 Brook Street Tavistock, Devon PL19 0HD

01822 612345 www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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WHITCHURCH, TAVISTOCK Guide £850,000 A pair of detached barn conversions in the Dartmoor National Park with a four bedroom main residence and further two bedroom annexe/office set in extensive grounds of about 18.7 acres including a modern farm building, reached by a long private drive and just half a mile from open moorland.

Features • Stunning Kitchen/Dining Room • Vaulted Ceilings • Impressive Living Room • Four Garden Areas • Five Pasture Fields • Suited for Equestrian Use • Also for a Possible Smallholding • Available with Less Land • EPC Rating 47 Band E

Tavistock Office 01822 612345

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN

HIGHAMPTON £1,500,000

Features • Five Bedrooms • Private Drive

A substantial contemporary country house set within grounds of approximately 24 acres including lake, paddocks, stables, and woodland. The extensive accommodation includes a guest apartment and leisure suite with indoor pool, Jacuzzi, gym, and sauna. The principal Living Room is almost 47 feet in length, and a Tower Room has 360 degree views over the grounds

• Detached Residential Lodge

Okehampton Office 01837 52371

• EPC Rating 51 Band E

• Leisure Suite with Swimming Pool • Hot Tub, Gym and Sauna • Tower Room with Spectacular Views • Delightful Informal Gardens • Stables, Paddocks, Woodland and Lake

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN: 01822 612345

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SCRUBTOR, NR. TAVISTOCK £725,000 With stunning views over the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and set in a peaceful rural location, this appealing modern country home is set in just under 5 acres in an elevated position surrounded by its grounds with paddocks and stables. It has contemporary-style kitchen and bathrooms and a spectacular extensive wrap-around garden room/living room.

Features • Four Bedrooms • Pasture Field with Small Copse • Hot Tub Room • Terrace Overlooking Garden • Ideal Equestrian Property • Electric Gates at End of Drive • Garage and Large Timber Shed • Lean-to Greenhouse and Two Stables • EPC Rating 62 Band D

Tavistock Office 01822 612345

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN

INWARDLEIGH, NR. OKEHAMPTON O.I.E.O. £675,000 A period farmhouse set in a delightful rural location and run as a highly successful and growing business providing high quality country house bed & breakfast accommodation from the three main en-suite bedrooms in the farmhouse. Included is a one bedroom holiday let which has the best of the views.

Okehampton Office 01837 52371

Features • Four/Five Bedrooms • Set in 6.5 Acres • Stable Yard with Five Stables • 40m x 20m Manege • Three Pasture Fields • Field Shelter • Woodland of About a Third of an Acre • Views over Surrounding Countryside • EPC Rating 53 Band E

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN: 01822 612345

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DAVID CHARTERED BALMENT SURVEYORS DAVID BALMENT

David Balment, FRICS, has 40 years’ professional experience as a Chartered Surveyor, and is a founder partner of Mansbridge & Balment

Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS) with 40 years’ ● Strawberry Hill, Whitchurch Road professional experience within Tavistock, West Devon & East Cornwall Tavistock, Devon, PL19 9BD Provides in-depth Survey Reports with digital photographs ● and same day feedback Fees from £250 (no VAT charged) ● Does the agreed purchase price of your new home reflect the correct ● value and current market conditions? Valuations are included in all surveys, together with a Fire Insurance reinstatement figure.

Professional, independent and impartial advice ●

T: 01822 615200 M: 07836 681703

Our longest established office is located in the centre of the ancient stannary and market town of Tavistock, home to a fine and eclectic range of independent shops of various trades, as well as the ever popular Pannier Market and the fortnightly Farmers’ Market which takes place in Bedford Square.

Always attractive to tourists, Tavistock lies on the south west edge of the Dartmoor National Park, and since the turn of the 21st century it has been voted both “Best Market Town” in England and “Best Food Town”, further raising its profile and increasing its popularity.

The Tavistock office covers a wide area of this beautiful part of the South West, taking in many of the outlying villages and hamlets of both West Devon and South East Cornwall, and meeting the boundaries of our offices in Okehampton to the north, Launceston to the west and Yelverton and Bere Alston to the south. With the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the border of Cornwall just 5 miles to its west, and the rugged landscape of Dartmoor National Park to its east, Tavistock has long been described as one of England’s finest market towns, very much the focus of the community and cultural activity in the area.

The housing stock in and around Tavistock is wide and varied in style and size, ranging from 19th century Duke of Bedford cottages and larger Victorian detached and semi-detached residences to more modern developments such as the ever popular Bishopsmead, as well as sensitively constructed new builds, townhouses, bungalows and apartments.

In addition, there is a strong stock of rural housing, including farms, smallholdings and equestrian properties with land, and given the stunning nature of much of the outlying countryside a wide range of homes with income potential, including B & B’s, holiday complexes and cottages, as well as small hotels.

TAVISTOCK

Tavistock

Please feel free to drop in to our offices at 9 Brook Street, Tavistock to discuss your property requirements with any of our experienced, knowledgeable and friendly members of staff.

ADAM CROTON

Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

TAVISTOCK 9 Brook Street Tavistock, Devon PL19 0HD

01822 612345

tavistock@mansbridgebalment.co.uk www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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LAMERTON £479,950 Located at the end of a tree lined no-through lane adjacent to the attractive Church of St Peter on the edge of the village and enjoying peaceful rural views, this beautifully refurbished 18th Century cottage is set in beautiful mature partly walled private gardens with a pitched roof barn style double garage and workshop space above which has planning permission for a one bedroom annexe. It enjoys a rural outlook back towards the village and a pleasant view of the nearby church tower.

Tavistock Office 01822 612345

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Features

• Parking to Front of Garage

• Four Bedrooms – Master En-suite

• Workshop with Power and Light

• Triple Aspect Farmhouse Style Kitchen

• EPC Rating 64 Band D

• Master Bedroom with En-suite Shower • Feature Cottage Garden • Slate Patio and Raised Seating Area • Greenhouse • Pitched Roof Barn Style Double Garage • Workshop with Power and Light • EPC Rating 61 Band D

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

TAVISTOCK

SYDENHAM £595,000 Formerly part of the Sydenham estate, this attractive detached country cottage is nestled in a delightful rural setting close to the wild beauty of Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The property has been sympathetically extended and reconfigured by the current owners and now provides spacious and flexible accommodation.

Tavistock Office 01822 612345

Features • Four Bedrooms • Four Reception Rooms • Many Character Features • Approximately 4.5 Acres of Grounds • Areas of Woodland • Summerhouse • Stone Outhouse • Stunning Views • EPC Rating 33 Band F

TAVISTOCK OFFICE: 01822 612345

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Harrowbarrow £379,950 A well presented and versatile semi-detached country house with one bedroom annexe and self contained studio apartment providing a useful income through letting.

• Delightful Views • Attractive Rear Gardens • Barn with Potential • EPC Rating 11 Band G

St. Dominick £445,000 Built to a high specification, this spacious detached bungalow is luxuriously appointed throughout with double garage and parking.

• Four Bedrooms • Large South Facing Garden • Timber Built Lined Studio • EPC Rating 61 Band D

Tavistock £475,000 Detached family home in one of Tavistock’s most prestigious locations within walking distance of the town.

• Four Bedrooms • South Facing Garden • Double Garage • EPC Rating 68 Band D

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

Modern family home in a quiet, pedestrianised location within easy level walking distance of the town centre.

• Four Bedrooms • Enclosed Courtyard • Two Parking Spaces

TAVISTOCK

Tavistock £245,000

• EPC Rating 78 Band C

Tamar Valley £525,000 An impressive detached barn presented to a particularly high standard with open plan living enjoying stunning views over the Tamar Valley.

• Three/Four Bedrooms • Professionally Landscaped Gardens • Detached Studio/Workshop • EPC Band 21 Band F

Chilsworthy £499,950 Delightful detached country house in a peaceful rural setting benefiting from attractive grounds in excess of one acre and superb views.

• Four Bedrooms • Workshop • Open Fronted Garage • EPC Rating 45 Band E

TAVISTOCK OFFICE: 01822 612345

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Tamar Valley £725,000 A magnificent Grade II* Listed country house providing a unique and spacious family home of exceptional quality throughout with a private plot of approximately two acres.

• Six Bedrooms • Luxury Fittings • Peaceful and Tranquil Location • Double Garage and Driveway

Milton Abbot £490,000 Extensively restored detached barn creating a distinctive family home located in a peaceful rural hamlet.

• 4/5 Bedrooms • Landscaped Walled Garden • Triple Detached Garage • EPC Rating 57 Band D

Whitchurch £650,000 A substantial Victorian semi-detached family residence in a highly desirable location on the edge of Whitchurch Down, with superb views.

• Five Bedrooms • Extensive Landscaped Gardens • Garage and Parking • EPC Rating 31 Band F

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

Detached country home which is beautifully appointed, with versatile accommodation, in a rural but not isolated setting in the Tamar Valley.

• Four Bedrooms • Large Secluded Gardens

TAVISTOCK

Sydenham Damerel £499,995

• Annexe Potential • EPC Rating 40 Band E

Milton Abbot £875,000 Grade II Listed substantial detached Victorian vicarage with a host of original features and further detached dwelling situated in grounds of approximately one acre and enjoying far reaching views.

• Six Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms, Study, Garden Room • Cellars and Attic Rooms • Elegant Period Features

Brentor £430,000 Period detached family home in large gardens with superb views over surrounding countryside.

• Four Bedrooms • Double Garage and Parking • Spacious and Comfortable • EPC Rating 69 Band C

TAVISTOCK OFFICE: 01822 612345

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Mansbridge Balment Lettings Locally and nationally, the private rental sector is growing at a very fast pace with many buy-to-let landlords looking to capitalise on some excellent investment opportunities. Mansbridge Balment can now offer a similar high quality service to that of the sales teams. Opened last year Mansbridge Balment Lettings team is headed by Leisa Copper. Leisa and her team will provide a bespoke service for landlords and tenants ranging from a ‘finder’ service to a fully managed operation.

If you have recently invested in property as a buy-to-let landlord, or are thinking of doing so, you will inevitably want to start covering your costs as soon as possible. So getting it occupied promptly is essential.

However, one of the most difficult tasks for a landlord can be sourcing the right tenants for their property. Qualifying tenants and ensuring that occupancy rates are maintained is essential for a successful residential investment to work. This is where the experience and marketing knowledge

of a good agent comes to the fore.

Landlords have a number of responsibilities, which can prove to be time consuming and stressful if not handled correctly. As some have discovered, managing your own investment property can be more than just a headache. Collection of rent, maintaining the upkeep and maintenance of the property, ensuring the property meets all legal safety standards and finding new tenants when the existing ones decide to move on – the list grows. Hence the need for a knowledgeable letting agent able to take care of all these issues on your behalf.

With such a valuable investment, there is sense in engaging a professional agent to handle it for you.

Here at Mansbridge Balment Lettings we like to take the stress away from landlords and help prospective tenants find the best property to suit them and their needs. Everyone is different, therefore an individual approach is needed to best serve the needs of landlords and tenants. Mansbridge Balment Lettings work alongside our residential sales teams to provide a high quality service to all.

LEISA COPPER

MANSBRIDGE BALMENT LETTINGS 5 Brook Street Tavistock, Devon PL19 0HD

01822 617171

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

Below a selection of our recently let properties....

LETTINGS OFFICE: 01822 617171

LETTINGS

If you have a property to let or would just like some advice – please call in to the office at any time, we’d be very happy to help.

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Old dog Mansbridge Balment

New tricks...

Contact us today mansbridgebalment.co.uk

The adage ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ is particularly true within the world of Estate Agency. We at Mansbridge Balment are always looking at ways to improve the quality and method of our photography for clients in order to best display their property to potential buyers.

With this in mind Mansbridge Balment has recently joined forces with Cornwall based company Kite Vision to take a unique and often breathtakingly stunning approach to property photography. With their cutting edge drone technology, Kite Vision are able to film both internally, on the ground and from the sky – giving our clients images worthy of any Hollywood film company!

ADVANTAGES TO DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY Unlike previous static 360° videos created from ‘stitching’ still photographs together - Drone technology gives a fluid and completely realistic filming between rooms, around the garden and from the air.

Any potential buyer can instantly see all aspects of a property and gain a similar feeling to that of a real life ‘viewing’.

These films can be uploaded to our own website and all online property portals used by Mansbridge Balment - alongside the more traditional still property images.

ABOVE and BEYOND

DRONE TECHNOLOGY

Bringing you the very latest in aerial photography

WHO, WHERE, WHEN?

Drone technology is available to all our Mansbridge Balment clients who would like to take advantage of this technology. Although this technology will not be suitable for all properties, we do feel that detached properties, or those in more rural locations would particularly benefit.

The drone can fly up to 122 metres (400ft) vertically and within a radius of 500 metres from the ground-based pilot.

As long as Kite Vision has a suitable space from which to launch the drone (a medium sized garden or a local field) they can fly over any property and even over water. Each battery within the drone lasts approximately 15-20 minutes but Kite Vision come equipped with several batteries, to ensure full coverage of a property is obtained.

Kite Vision advises that the best results are taken on still, dry and preferably sunny days.

Kite Vision is BNUC-S qualified through EuroUSC. With this qualification they have obtained permission for aerial work (PFAW) from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) enabling them to fly commercially.

Charlotte and Adam, who both studied Television Production and Media at Brighton and Bournemouth Universities, run Kite Vision. Charlotte has many years experience of photographing and filming promotional videos and Adam provides a wealth of technical knowhow and freelance editing. All this experience ensures that Kite Vision provide us and our clients with a highly polished end product.

If you would like to know more or would like your own property to benefit from this incredible new technology, then please get in touch with your local office of Mansbridge Balment. To see an example visit our website: www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk.

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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...we can now offer aerial filming of your property

Contact us today mansbridgebalment.co.uk

The Yelverton office stands proudly at the entrance to the parade of shops in the bustling village with plenty of parking to enable potential purchasers and vendors alike to visit us, to browse through our large selection of properties on offer or to discuss marketing their home. Our enviable location within the Dartmoor National Park provides easy access to both Tavistock and Plymouth and is within a few minutes of the wide open spaces that Dartmoor offers. Our net spreads far and wide covering a large rural area including lovely villages such as Meavy, Clearbrook, Dousland, Horrabridge, Walkhampton, Crapstone, Milton Combe and Buckland Monachorum meeting up with our North Plymouth office boundary to the South and the Tavistock and Bere Peninsula boundaries to the North and West.

Properties in this area offer a great range from first time buyer and retirement apartments to exclusive detached residences with land. As well as the many local and South East purchasers seeking a quieter life, interest is drawn from far and wide including Hong Kong and the Far East.

Having myself, lived and worked in Yelverton for a good many years, for me it would be hard to imagine living anywhere else! It is the ideal location for all ages, offering a lifestyle envied by many.

Excellent schools, clubs and activities are all on hand for those bringing up a family or looking to take full advantage of the outdoor lifestyle that Dartmoor offers. For those seeking a less hectic life, Yelverton and its surrounding area offers great peace and tranquillity too. Dartmoor National Park offers a myriad of wonderful walks and places to explore yet the beautiful coast and sandy beaches of Devon and Cornwall are all within easy reach.

YELVERTON

Yelverton

LYNN WHITE

Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

YELVERTON The Roundabout, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6DT

01822 855055

yelverton@mansbridgebalment.co.uk www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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YELVERTON £700,000 This beautifully presented residence is situated a short distance from the centre of Yelverton and has direct access on to moorland. Set in well tended grounds of 1.35 acres with a south westerly aspect. The property is approached via a private gated entrance which offers seclusion.

Yelverton Office 01822 855055

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Features • Four/Five Bedrooms • 35ft Sitting/Dining Room opening to Conservatory • Set within Woodlands • Landscaped Gardens • Double Garage and Workshop • Four Stables • Trap House – Potential for Conversion (STP) • Greenhouse • EPC Rating 63 Band D

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

YELVERTON

YELVERTON Guide £750,000 A versatile and spacious 1920’s detached family home offering annexe potential and connected outbuildings amidst beautiful established private lawned gardens (in excess of an acre) with many mature trees, a decked area with access from a covered courtyard and a direct private access onto Yelverton golf course.

Features • Five Bedrooms • Four Reception Rooms • Conservatory • Potential to create an Annexe with Separate Entrance • South Westerly View over Open Countryside • Pedestrian Gate to Golf Course • Garage and Carport

Yelverton Office 01822 855055

• Workshop and Two Storerooms • EPC Rating 48 Band E

YELVERTON OFFICE: 01822 855055

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HORRABRIDGE Guide £1,350,000 An imposing Georgian manor house, which has undergone considerable renovation works, set in spectacular grounds of about 20 acres on the western slopes of Dartmoor just half a mile from open moorland and once formed the centre of an extensive country estate thought to date back to at least 1309.

Yelverton Office 01822 855055

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Features • Over 10,000 sq.ft • Eleven Bedrooms • Four Reception Rooms • Further Ancillary Rooms • Indoor Swimming Pool • Recently Used as Residential Training Centre • Suitable for Conversion to Boutique Hotel (STP) • Parkland Grounds • EPC Rating 38 Band F

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A beautifully presented house set in gardens of 0.35 of an acre mainly laid to lawn with a driveway leading to the detached double garage.

• Five Bedrooms • Heated Swimming Pool

YELVERTON

Crapstone £597,500

• Short Walk to Open Moorland • EPC Rating 64 Band D

Yelverton £450,000 An enviably located detached family home set in 0.44 of an acre of secluded gardens a short walk from Yelverton Golf Club and open moorland.

• Three Double Bedrooms • Secluded Location • Attractive Gardens • EPC Rating 43 Band E

Milton Combe £250,000 Situated in the heart of the village this cottage has been lovingly cared for and offers the opportunity to buy a property with character and charm.

• Three Bedrooms • Pretty Courtyard • Outbuilding and Parking • EPC Rating 34 Band F

YELVERTON OFFICE: 01822 855055

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YELVERTON Guide £735,000

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Features • Four Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms

A delightful detached family home built, we understand, in the late 1950’s and extended in the 1980’s. The beauty of this family home is its location with glorious westerly views and having direct access onto moorland known as Roborough Down.

• Beautifully Presented

Yelverton Office 01822 855055

• Double Garage

• Stunning Countryside Views • Landscaped Gardens of Approximately One Acre • Stone Paved Seating Terrace • Views towards the Cornish Hills • EPC Rating 50 Band E

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

YELVERTON

DOUSLAND £500,000 A versatile, light and comfortable family home with the addition of a one bedroom annexe situated in this popular village with the beautiful scenery of Burrator reservoir and Dartmoor just a short walk away. The gardens are a particular feature of the property with the plot totalling approximately a quarter of an acre.

Yelverton Office 01822 855055

Features • Built in 1920’s • Four Bedrooms • Four Reception Rooms • One Bedroom Annexe • Approximately ¼ Acre Gardens • Westerly Aspect • Potting Shed • Garage and Parking • EPC Rating 50 Band E

YELVERTON OFFICE: 01822 855055

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THE BENEFITS OF USING AN

INTERIOR DESIGNER Many of us spend hours looking at gorgeous house magazines or dedicated websites, desperately trying to get some inspiration on how to create the perfect look for our homes. However, the daunting row upon row of paint tins in our DIY shops means we often fall at the very first hurdle. Who knew there were quite so many shades of ‘white’!

Mansbridge Balment has been in touch with Holly Keeling a local Devon based interior designer who recently won ‘Period Living’ magazine’s award, to find out why it might be easier if we just enlisted the help of a professional.

Why use an Interior Designer?

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Many clichéd impressions of exactly what an Interior Designer does may distract you from taking advantage of what is not only professional and expert advice, but also exposure to numerous products and alternatives that you may not even have thought of and of course personal advice that is hard to glean from the best of magazines.

With invaluable contacts and supplier discounts available, Interior Designers can often save clients a great deal of money, will help your home work and flow best for you and your family and of course they will get it right the first time!

Holly explains: “You need to get your choices right - furnishing and decorating a home is a costly exercise. Many of us will have wandered around the DIY shops only to be faced with an enormous check-out bill for a basket overflowing with spontaneous buys; a gilt mirror, retro pink wallpaper and a super cool lampshade, none of which resembles that beautiful picture we saw in a magazine and quite frankly does little to enhance the room on return home!

An Interior Designer will help steer you away from the mundane and predictable and introduce you to a world of beautiful design. We have access to vast selections of wallpapers and fabrics and know how to combine these to work best in any particular setting. A designer will work with you, your personality and your attitude to create a

room scheme that is not only aesthetically pleasing and practical but will inspire you and hopefully impresses your friends too – always a nice thing to achieve!

The high street, auction houses, junk shops and charity shops can all be wonderful places to find hidden gems. A good Interior Designer will use an eclectic mix of items found in any number of these places and combine them to great effect – a skill and an eye which can take years to accomplish.

Personally I try never to miss local auctions or many of our local markets, (Totnes on a Friday is a particular favourite). They are always inspirational and full of wonderful finds. I never know what I’m going to see, but there is inevitably something that catches my eye. Most of my clients room schemes not only use beautiful wallpapers and paint but combine all manner of items I could never necessarily have planned for but make each room just that little bit more interesting and unique to them.”

Holly recently helped Bryony and Bertie Hancock with the renovations to the Cider

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

INTERIORS

Few things can be more daunting than taking the decision to decorate your home, whether it is just one room in need of a transformation or the whole house.

The Cider House, Buckland Monachorum House at Buckland Abbey, so they could encourage more people to visit their beautiful B&B. Bertie and Bryony are eternally grateful to Holly for working with them and in particular for helping them have the confidence to try new ideas, layouts and colours they were initially unsure of.

Bertie explains the initial dilemma when they first moved to the Cider House. “We are fortunate to live in the most beautiful property in a stunning location and so we knew we had to do it justice. We had a great deal of renovation and redecoration to do on a fairly limited budget, knowing that it all had to be right from our very first visitors to ensure the best feedback from the word go.”

Bryony explains “without Holly’s help we would probably have spent a good 40 -50% more on the house and would never have achieved such stunning results. Holly was fantastic to work with and encouraged us to follow our own ideas and style, helping

us select furnishings, fabrics and wallpapers that reflected our own personalities as well as the property. She knew exactly what size piece of furniture should go where and would often be able to source it for us from one of her many auction house ‘finds’. Holly also has fantastic contacts and so we were able to save a great deal on many of the simple items such as paint, tiles and flooring, which we were able to source at trade prices.

We now have a property that all our visitors find relaxing and stylish but also homely, which has certainly helped towards giving us our excellent rating with TripAdvisor! We have never used an Interior Designer before but would now whole-heartedly recommend it. Holly has been a tremendous support throughout the project and even though we finished several months ago, she still calls round with another ‘find’ that will go just in the right place – and she’s always right!”

If you would like to find a BIID (British Institute of Interior Designers) accredited interior designer in your area, go to the BIID website: www. biId.org.uk Holly Keeling: www.hollykeeling.co.uk email: holly.keeling@tiscali.co.uk The Cider House, Buckland Abbey, Buckland Monachorum: www.cider-house.co.uk or email: indulge@cider-house.co.uk 01822 259062

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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Bring something exceptional to your home with our vast selection of carpet and flooring

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01822 614 537

tavistockcarpets.co.uk West Devon Business Park Tavistock PL19 9DP

Our busy Peninsula Office is located in the heart of the thriving village of Bere Alston and covers an extensive area that includes the lovely waterside village of Bere Ferrers, Weir Quay - perfect for boating enthusiasts - and many surrounding hamlets. Set in lush green countryside this area affords a milder climate and fertile soil bringing with it a rich history of market gardening, with produce of flowers, fruit and vegetables being sent off by train to London in days gone by.

Fortunately, the railway line still exists and a regular train service runs from Gunnislake through the villages of Bere Alston and Bere Ferrers to Plymouth, linking up with the main Paddington to Penzance line. Beautiful views can be enjoyed over the gentle rolling hills and across the Tamar and Tavy rivers into Cornwall.

The villages of Bere Alston and Bere Ferrers both afford a good sense of community and although closely connected in many ways they are quite different, offering the best of both worlds.

Bere Ferrers is the smaller and quieter of the two with many cottages and detached family homes running down to the waters edge, a pretty Inn and a church. Bere Alston has expanded greatly over the years and affords a selection of shops including a small

supermarket, a doctors surgery, chemist, popular village school, churches and a pub.

The wide range of properties includes lovely cottages ideal for first time buyers , bungalows set on small developments and houses large and small.

A regular bus service links the villages with Tavistock and the train takes the strain for many for their daily commute to Plymouth.

BERE PENINSULA

Bere Peninsula

Mansbridge Balment is very proud of our office within the village and is always delighted to support the local community in any way we can. This has included for many years, the office being transformed into Father Christmas’s Grotto for the annual Victorian Fair, sponsorship of the Bowling Club and Bere Ferrers Water Sports Day to name but a few. Trisha Milne, sales consultant in the office has lived in the area for many years and is very well known. She is always busy regularly carrying out the many viewings locally on the large selection of properties on offer through this office.

TRISH MILNE Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

BERE PENINSULA 19 Fore Street, Bere Alston, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 7AA

01822 840606

berealston@mansbridgebalment.co.uk www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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Tuckermarsh £350,000 This charming barn conversion has recently undergone improvement works which have resulted in a wonderful property located within a beautiful rural landscape.

• Four Bedrooms • Ground Floor Guest Suite with Separate Access • Grounds of Approximately One Acre • EPC Rating 26 Band F

Collytown Guide £799,950 A Grade II historic country manor house situated in a tranquil setting in an area of outstanding natural beauty with southerly views over the Tavy Estuary.

• Five Bedrooms • Approximately 20 Acres • Well Tended Walled Garden • Useful Outbuildings

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

BERE PENINSULA

Tuckermarsh £365,000 Formerly two properties, this property has been sympathetically extended to provide a delightful 18th century detached cottage nestling in the picturesque Tamar Valley.

• Three Bedrooms • Gardens/Paddock of Approximately One Acre • Detached Workshop and Garage • Greenhouse and Log Cabin

Bere Ferrers Guide £795,000 A sympathetically and imaginatively renovated period farmhouse with river views set in the grounds of about 9.6 acres including greenhouses, pond and covered reservoir.

• Six Bedrooms • Period Stone Barn with Conversion Potential • Stone Workshop with Potential for Alternative Use • Modern Farm Buildings BERE PENINSULA OFFICE: 01822 840606

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Moving Home?

Finding your dream home can be really exciting.

But, let’s be honest, dealing with solicitors isn’t always quite so much fun!

That’s why, here at Thompson and Jackson, we promise to make your move as easy and stress-free as possible.

Choose us and we promise you’ll get regular contact in plain English - that’s right, absolutely no legal jargon ever!

And we’re Fastmove lawyers, so you could save up to £1,000 on your legal fees*.

Contact us for a FREE initial discussion.

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01752 665037 4 & 5 St Lawrence Road Plymouth PL4 6HR Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (00056428). *based on the average charges made by a sample of five Fastmove conveyancing firms for a couple selling and buying freehold properties at £175,000 and £249,000 respectively compared with a leading national conveyancing organisation (figures accurate as at August 2010 and reviewed at June 2011).

Client

Hype

Artworker

-

File Name

7375 T&J Re-size Ads x 2 Finished Size

245x295mm

PLYMOUTH CITY OFFICE – AT THE HEART OF A BUOYANT LOCAL PROPERTY MARKET

Whether you are buying or selling, when it comes to taking advantage of a strong property market in Plymouth, you need a strong and reputable ally.

Since 1971 Mansbridge Balment has built an enviable track record for making it easier for people to move home and prides itself on having established a proven heritage for delivering exceptional levels of professionalism and customer service.

Its modern, contemporary designed Plymouth City Office is conveniently situated in Mutley Plain and staffed by a team of highly experienced professionals who have both the local knowledge and expertise to ensure a first class client experience.

Little wonder then, that Mansbridge Balment sells more properties in Plymouth than any other estate agent in the city and is one of the few agents in Britain’s Ocean City to be fully licensed by the National Association of Estate Agents.

It’s about going the extra mile. The office offers seven days a week opening, which is proving a real winner with clients. It is consistently fully booked for viewings as house hunters take advantage of extended weekend hours, including 10am to 3pm every Sunday.

Staff have been inundated with enquiries from people keen to use capital built up in their pension pots to invest in property. In the first three months of this year investment property purchases were up 30 per cent and that upward trend is expected to continue across 2015.

PLYMOUTH CITY

Plymouth City

From April 6th, anyone at the age of 55 or over with a contribution pension scheme will be able to get access to their entire pension pot without the need to buy an annuity, as had been the case.

The changes are seen as yet another major boost to the housing market, already buoyed by the Government’s Help to Buy scheme and the equally radical overhaul of Stamp Duty, which has enabled some buyers to make big savings on house purchases.

Mansbridge Balment has also been active this year in helping sellers in key property hotspots across the city find out how much their homes are currently worth through a series of free valuation days, putting valuers in particular areas on given dates – another example of the agency going above and beyond to deliver a high quality customer service.

BEN DREHER

Currently, the office is seeing good levels of stock selling across all price ranges in the Plymouth area, but there is particular interest in the Buy-to-let sector following radical changes to pension rules that came into force in early April this year.

PLYMOUTH CITY 6 Mannamead Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 7AA

01752 229292

plymouthcity@mansbridgeandbalment.com www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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SUTTON HARBOUR £300,000 A beautifully appointed second floor apartment offering outstanding harbour views and positioned to provide ease of access to Plymouth’s Barbican Quarter, historic Hoe and the city centre. With its second floor position you are offered the privacy from passers-by yet you are not too high and can enjoy the atmosphere and activity of the Marina.

Plymouth City Office 01752 229292

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Features • Two Double Bedrooms • Lounge/Dining Room with Floor to Ceiling Windows • Kitchen/Breakfast Room Fitted to High Standard • Private Balcony • Uninterrupted Views of Sutton Harbour • Lift Service • Secure Car Park to Rear with One Space Allocated • EPC Rating 81 Band C

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A unique architect designed, immaculately presented, residence set within the beautifully landscaped grounds of The Millfields.

• Two Double Bedrooms • Landscaped Rear Garden • Two Allocated Parking Spaces • EPC Rating 69 Band C

PLYMOUTH CITY

The Millfields £265,000

Wembury £360,000 A recently renovated and extended dormer bungalow in a highly sought after beachside residential suburb and set within a large south facing garden.

• Four Double Bedrooms • Sea Views from First Floor • Integral Garage and Driveway • EPC Rating 69 Band C

Mannamead £280,000 A substantial mid terrace Victorian family home retaining many original features and set in a much sought after location.

• Five Double Bedrooms • Enclosed Courtyard Garden • Parking • EPC Rating 52 Band E

PLYMOUTH CITY OFFICE: 01752 229292

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Seaton £95,000 A ground floor purpose built maisonette in an exclusive development of holiday cottages.

• One Large Double Bedroom • Sea Views • Allocated Parking • EPC Rating 78 Band C

Peverell £249,999 Deceptively versatile and well presented mid terraced period home offering spacious and bright accommodation set across three levels.

• Five Bedrooms • Separate Annexe Potential • Above Average Sized Rear Garden • EPC Rating 60 Band D

Stoke £235,000 Situated on the first floor of this beautiful detached residence is this spacious well presented and decorated apartment.

• Three Double Bedrooms • Well Maintained Grounds • Allocated Off Road Parking • EPC Rating 55 Band D

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A fantastic Grade II Listed detached family home enjoying a good degree of privacy with grounds of approximately one third of an acre.

• Four Double Bedrooms • Recently Renovated • Private Driveway and Parking • River Frontage

PLYMOUTH CITY

Ivybridge £450,000

Stoke £395,000 A detached characterful coach house set in private and landscaped enclosed south facing gardens with beautifully presented accommodation.

• Three Bedrooms • Garage • Central Location • EPC Rating 63 Band D

Landulph £525,000 A delightful detached family residence set in a desirable semi rural location with attractively laid out gardens and grounds extending to more than one acre.

• Four/Five Bedrooms • Summerhouse and Potting Shed • Car Port and Storage • EPC Rating 42 Band E

PLYMOUTH CITY OFFICE: 01752 229292

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THE HOE £395,000 The Azure is one of Plymouth’s most sought after and highly regarded waterside developments of luxury apartments in an elevated position with enviable views over Plymouth Sound and The Hoe. The property, presented to a high standard throughout, is located on the sixth floor.

Plymouth City Office 01752 229292

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Features • Leasehold with Approximately 991 Years Remaining • Two Double Bedrooms • Entrance Vestibule with Concierge • Lift Access • Commanding Sea Views • One Allocated Parking Space • Large South Facing Terrace with Decking • Communal Front Gardens • EPC Rating 80 Band C

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

PLYMOUTH NORTH OFFICE – UNRIVALLED PROPERTY EXPOSURE AND LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

For more than a decade, the team at Mansbridge Balment’s Plymouth North Office has been helping customers to buy and sell homes in this extremely popular suburb of Plymouth.

Situated at the gateway to the moors, the office offers free onsite parking and is open seven days a week with even Sunday viewings available between 10am and 3pm, a service that is always fully booked.

But perhaps its greatest asset is its proximity to the nearby Tesco superstore benefiting from 40,000 visitors a week. What better shop window for marketing a property for sale!

Staff have unrivalled local knowledge of the area and the many different styles of properties it offers, all supported by Mansbridge Balment’s proven track record for delivering exceptional levels of customer service for more than 40 years.

The team takes pride in going above and beyond for clients and this has helped Mansbridge Balment to achieve an enviable record of selling more properties in Plymouth than any other estate agent. It is also one of the few estate agents in the city fully licensed by the National Association of Estate Agents.

the city’s biggest employers, including Derriford Hospital.

Like its sister office in the city, staff at Plymouth North office have also seen increasing interest in the Buy-to-Let sector following the radical changes to pensions by the Government which came into effect in early April this year.

NORTH PLYMOUTH

North Plymouth

Investment property purchases were up 30 per cent over the first three months of the year and as the market is anticipated to remain strong across 2015 with sensible mortgage lending criteria still in place, people are expected to carry on taking advantage of the new regulations.

The changes - enabling anyone at the age of 55 or over with a contribution pension scheme to access their entire pension pot without the need to buy an annuity – have been seen as yet another major boost to the housing market, already buoyed by the Government’s Help to Buy scheme and the equally radical overhaul of Stamp Duty, which has enabled some buyers to make big savings on house purchases.

KEVIN BUCKINGHAM

The suburbs surrounding the Plymouth North office offer a vast range of property types, from large semi-rural homes, given the office’s proximity to Dartmoor, to more suburban apartment schemes and many choices for first time buyers.

The North Plymouth area also offers a wide variety of local amenities as well as some of

NORTH PLYMOUTH Woolwell Crescent, Plymouth, Devon, PL6 7RB

01752 791333

plymouth@mansbridgeandbalment.com www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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DERRIFORD £575,000 A rare opportunity to purchase a unique Grade II Listed Georgian residence set in its own secluded plot with further extensions into the attached cottages, formerly the old converted stables (not listed), creating a versatile and beautiful sized property.

Features • Six Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • Host of Period Features • Potential for Further Extension (STP) • Rear Garden of Approximately One Third of an Acre • Cellar with Power and Light • Two Garages and Driveway

North Plymouth Office 01752 791333

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• EPC Rating 39 Band E (cottages)

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

An extended detached residence which includes a hydrotherapy pool, gymnasium and physiotherapy area with garaging, parking and an enclosed garden.

• Five Bedrooms • Electrically Gated Entrance • Bar and Games Room • EPC Rating 70 Band C

NORTH PLYMOUTH

Glenholt £675,000

Derriford £415,000 An exceptionally well presented family home located in a prestigious cul-de-sac and enjoying far reaching views.

• Five Bedrooms • Well Maintained Gardens • Double Garage and Driveway • EPC Rating 80 Band C

Glenholt £539,000 A substantial detached property arranged as two separate dwellings and ideal for multi-generational use offering independent living for an older relative.

• Six Bedrooms • Superb Landscaped Gardens • No. 5 - EPC Rating 43 Band E • No. 7 – EPC Rating 54 Band E

NORTH PLYMOUTH OFFICE: 01752 791333

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Roborough £299,950 A fabulous family home situated in a highly sought after cul-de-sac within this quiet location.

• Four Bedrooms • Private South Facing Rear Garden • Garage and Driveway • EPC Rating 67 Band D

Roborough £280,000 A individually designed detached residence with lawned gardens and located within a highly sought after residential district.

• Four Double Bedrooms • Two Cellar Storage Rooms • Garage and Driveway • EPC Rating 48 Band E

Glenholt £410,000 A spacious detached family home occupying a wonderful private and mature plot within this sought after North Plymouth location.

• Four/Five Bedrooms • Direct Parkland Access • Large Single Integral Garage • EPC Rating 53 Band E

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

NORTH PLYMOUTH

RIVERFORD £669,000 Nestled in this historic Devon hamlet, enjoying a wonderful open outlook across the Plym Valley is this spacious detached property set on a beautifully maintained plot of approximately 2.7 acres including extensive gardens, parking forecourt with double garage and a large paddock complete with stables and a hay barn.

Features • Original Building Dates Back to 1857 • Planning Permission Granted to Erect Two Detached Properties • Four Bedrooms • Elevated Patio Area • Extensive Network of Cellars • Conveniently Close to Amenities • Beautiful Countryside Setting • Tree Lined Gravelled Driveway

North Plymouth Office 01752 791333

• EPC Rating 36 Band E

NORTH PLYMOUTH OFFICE: 01752 791333

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Photos: Neil Adams photography and Tavistock House Hotel

Beautiful Bathrooms in Beautiful Homes

All aspects of heating and plumbing from a dripping tap to full installations of heating systems, wet rooms, solar and underfloor heating.

Great links with local bathroom suppliers 2 Year Guarantee on all workmanship

The Store, Taylor Square, Tavistock PL19 0DG Tavistock 01822 610222 • Plymouth 01752 869074 info@chamings.plumbing

www.chamings.plumbing.co.uk

A conservation award winning holiday park that offers high specification lodges, a cottage and luxury caravan holiday homes; we can even offer you a Shepherd’s Hut for ‘comfortable camping’.

ff O e % ot nt 10 qu lme e ial u a us ec yo e B ho Sp en idg r a wh nsbr g fo a in M ook l

Stay with us and relax while you look for your new home...

Bouquets as unique as you are Amanda Randell MDPF: Master Florist m: 07973 226710 t: 01822 870888 www.amandarandell.co.uk Floral designs for life’s events

Self-catering accommodation available all year round; camping and touring available March to November.

With the River Tavy forming a natural boundary, this beautiful and relaxing park is set within Dartmoor National Park and within easy reach of Tavistock (2.5 miles), the Tamar Valley AONB, and much of Devon and Cornwall.

Peter Tavy • Tavistock • Devon • PL19 9LS T.01822 810349 F.01822 810028 stay@harfordbridge.co.uk

harfordbridge.co.uk

RHS Chelsea Gold Medalist 2014

An immaculate detached family home situated in a highly sought after location and finished to an excellent standard throughout.

• Four Bedrooms • Beautiful and Spacious Modern Fitted Kitchen/Diner • Large Single Integral Garage • EPC Rating 53 Band E

NORTH PLYMOUTH

Derriford £369,950

Tamerton Foliot £430,000 A fantastic family home situated at the end of a private drive offering extremely versatile living accommodation over a single storey.

• Four Bedrooms • Garden Cabin with Kitchenette and Shower • Level Gardens • EPC Rating 62 Band D

Tamerton Foliot £499,950 A fabulous detached dormer bungalow situated to the end of a gated private drive and set in extensive gardens of approximately two thirds of an acre.

• Five Bedrooms • Secluded Woodland Setting • Double Garage with Studio above • EPC Rating 71 Band C

NORTH PLYMOUTH OFFICE: 01752 791333

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Helping where we can...

POLZEATH SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

For over 40 years Mansbridge Balment has taken great pride in being a strong community member within our local area.

We have nine offices in Devon and Cornwall all of whom are involved in supporting charitable, cultural or sporting events in their locality. Here is just a small sample of some of the activities our offices have been able to support:

POLZEATH SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB Each year the Tavistock office team get dressed up for the local Dickensian evening in late November to supply the locals with mulled wine and mince pies and encourage participation in a raffle prize draw. The monies raised from the evening are then donated to the Polzeath Surf Life Saving Club in memory of David Balment’s son, who tragically died in a surf accident in 1996.

Each year the office has managed to raise in excess of £1500, helping towards buying vital equipment for the club, including a rescue boat. The club offers coaching, activities and competitions for children and adults of all ages in and around the sea.

Polzeath Surf Life Saving Club is affiliated to Surf Life Saving Great Britain. In 50 years, SLSGB members have rescued from drowning more than 20,000 people who might not otherwise be alive today were it not for the dedication of the volunteer members of Surf Life Saving Clubs.

mental health issues. MIND is committed to helping others lead independent lives within the community, and where possible to undertake volunteering or training, and in some cases to return to paid employment.

With the support of sponsorship from Mansbridge Balment, charity cyclists James Manthorp and Alice Murray-Gourlay raised £700 for Meningitis Now after completing an epic ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End. Mansbridge Balment helped pay for accommodation and provided the riders with company branded cycle clothing.

Also in aid of Meningitis Now, Valuation and Brand Manager at Plymouth City Office Chris Mervyn and his wife Claire recently raised over £2,000 for the charity by taking part in the Paris Marathon in April this year.

The Launceston office this year, as previously in 2014, were pleased to support several local sporting teams including the Launceston Cricket Club and sponsoring the ‘Treggy 7’ Road Race.

SPORTING SPONSORSHIP For the past two years Mansbridge Balment has been a title sponsor for the Plymouth 10K road race and is again the main sponsor for the event this year.

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Kristabel Cooper, Senior Sales Negotiator at Plymouth North Office completed a very daunting skydive, raising £550 for Plymouth MIND. This is a centre of mental health and wellbeing for Plymouth with professional staff and volunteers dedicated to the personal care of vulnerable people with

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

CHARITY

PEOPLE LIKE US Nick Henderson, Managing Director of Mansbridge Balment has recently been fundamental in the start up of a new charity ‘People Like Us’.

People Like Us comprises a group of like-minded local businesses, individuals and organisations supporting charities and aiming to change the lives of deserving people, young and old, in the Tavistock area. By combining their skills and resources, members of People Like Us are able to make a real contribution to the lives of others in their community. Each year, funds raised are donated to charities and worthy causes. Efforts are mostly focused on charities and other causes that are less publicised and therefore often overlooked.

GET ME OUT OF HERE! Plymouth’s Director, Darren Lawson was locked up in a cell for several hours and finally bailed out by friends and family who raised £1,000 in aid of The Battens Disease Family Foundation, a charity dedicated to raising awareness of a rare genetic condition in children.

If you are People Like Us please get involved.

To register an interest please email info@people-like-us.net www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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Considering investing in a holiday Home?

Speak to your local holiday letting specialist...

We know our local area and property market inside out. Our experts can advise you on which locations and which types of property would make the most of your investment as well as giving advice on how to prepare your property for holiday letting.

For special offers and a free copy of our brochure call us on 01548 202020 or check out our website

www.toadhallcottages.co.uk

Coming into the Spring market in the South Hams is always an exciting time.

With winter long forgotten and warm breezes buzzing through the daffodils, many sellers choose this moment to start marketing their home. With this, and particularly after Easter, visitors and holiday makers re-appear bringing a wave of second home buyers and those seeking a lifestyle change often looking to retire to the South West.

Kingsbridge is at the centre of that market place, a vibrant and year round busy town full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants and beautifully located surrounded by stunning countryside and lying at the head of the Kingsbridge Estuary. The town has its own seasonal floating marina, and throughout the year hosts many outdoor events and festivals. The town has received many coveted Gold medals from The South West In Bloom Awards, achieved only by the huge volunteer work of local residents and financial support from local businesses. The town also has an ‘outstanding’ secondary

KINGSBRIDGE

Kingsbridge school and primary school, and health club, hospital and medical centre.

Much of the South Hams is an ‘Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, and those who have explored the region will know that it is abundant with sandy beaches, rugged coastal footpaths, idyllic picturesque and historic villages.

The market towns of Kingsbridge, Totnes, Modbury and Ivybridge are all busy and vibrant towns, Salcombe and Dartmouth are world renowned sailing harbour towns hosting annual regattas and many sailing events. The South Hams is simply a unique part of the English countryside, offering a genuine lifestyle for anyone who loves the outdoors whether it be adventures on land or water.

MARK KEANE Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

KINGSBRIDGE 1 The Promenade, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 1JD

01548 857879

kingsbridge@mansbridgebalment.co.uk KINGSBRIDGE OFFICE: 01548 857879

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BANTHAM, NR. KINGSBRIDGE O.I.E.O. £1,100,000 A substantial detached residence with five bedrooms, three bathrooms and four spacious receptions located close to the stunning beach and coastline at Bantham. Set within some 1.1 acres of parkland style gardens with various outbuildings, ample parking and garaging. The property has stunning rural and coastal views and offers huge scope for further adaption or annexe potential if required.

Features • Lovely Farmhouse Style Kitchen • Dual Aspect Living Room • Gardens of Over One Acre • Greenhouse and Timber Shed • Summerhouse • Fruit and Vegetable Garden • Chicken Run • Fabulous Distant Views • EPC Rating 32 Band F

Kingsbridge Office 01548 857879

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

KINGSBRIDGE

TORCROSS, SOUTH DEVON Prices from £265,000 to £450,000 A beautiful beachside development of holiday homes in the pretty coastal village of Torcross, located along the stunning coastline of Start Bay. With availability of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments within the development, many with direct sea views and balconies overlooking the beach, parking and modern fittings throughout.

Kingsbridge Office 01548 857879

Features • Beachside Development • Stunning Coastal Views • Contemporary Fittings Throughout • Fantastic and Proven Income Potentials • Choice of 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom Apartments • Parking • Central Heating and Double Glazed • Village Location with Pub, Cafés and Shop • Perfect ‘lock up and leave’ Holiday Home

KINGSBRIDGE OFFICE: 01548 857879

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Hallsands, Nr. Kingsbridge £399,995 A ‘New England’ style contemporary home located on the stunning coastline of Start Bay and finished to the highest standard.

• Two Double Bedrooms • Private Leisure Facilities including Heated Swimming Pool and Tennis Courts • Open Plan Living Space with Atrium Window • EPC Rating 81 Band B

Kingsbridge £460,000 A waterside ground floor apartment within Kingsbridge’s most exclusive gated complex with stunning estuary views from all the principal rooms and communal gardens.

• Two Bedrooms • Covered Parking • Life Access • Awaiting EPC

Kingsbridge £650,000 A fabulous waterside home with separate one bedroom ancillary accommodation presented to an exceptionally high standard enjoying stunning views of the estuary.

• Five Bedrooms • Garden and Outbuilding • Double Garage and Parking • EPC Rating 48 Band E

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A beautifully appointed four bedroom detached property set within idyllic South Hams countryside, a separate two double bedroomed cottage providing substantial income potential, plus further annexe studio.

• Set within Stunning Landscaped Gardens • Additional One Acre Paddock

KINGSBRIDGE

Nr. Kingsbridge £795,000

• Stone Barn, Greenhouse and Kitchen Garden • EPC Rating 34 Band F

East Charleton, Nr. Kingsbridge £575,000 A superb period property, set in a delightful walled garden, offering well-proportioned accommodation.

• Four Bedrooms • Many Original Features • Two Garages and Parking • EPC Rating 42 Band E

Frogmore, Nr. Kingsbridge £295,000 Delightful mid terrace south facing cottage, full of character and charm, within a level walk of the Creek.

• Three Bedrooms • Enclosed Front Garden • Rear Courtyard for Parking • EPC Rating 42 Band

KINGSBRIDGE OFFICE: 01548 857879

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NR. KINGSBRIDGE From £230,000 The Fallapit Estate comprises a range of luxuriously appointed properties centred around a magnificent Grade II Listed mansion, tastefully restored and now being a collection of fine new build and converted homes all set within a most stunning and private estate.

Kingsbridge Office 01548 857879

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Features • Perfect Family Sized Holiday Homes • Two or Three Bedroom Properties Available • Beautifully Appointed • Private Parking and Storage • 18 Acres of Private Parkland • Grounds Abundant with Wildlife • Woodland Walks • Established Lake • Surrounded By Peaceful South Hams Countryside

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

KINGSBRIDGE

WIDEWELL, NR. KINGSBRIDGE £560,000 A most attractive double fronted detached cottage with generous grounds set within stunning South Hams countryside, and located just half a mile inland from the coast and beaches of Start Bay lies the peaceful hamlet of Widewell.

Kingsbridge Office 01548 857879

Features • Three Double Bedrooms • Three Receptions • Stunning Coastal and Country Views • Generous Gardens and Paddock • Double Garage and Parking • Paved Sun Terrace and Summerhouse • Central Heating • Conservatory with Views

KINGSBRIDGE OFFICE: 01548 857879

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PLANNING YOUR

garden

1

Whether you’re moving house and taking on a new garden or giving your existing one a makeover, some advance planning always pays dividends.

Local Landscape Designer, Sue Fisher gives us all some useful guidance.

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A garden needs to be a multipurpose space for everyone in the household: for relaxing, entertaining, growing flowers or food, a play space for children or grandchildren, storage for bins, bikes and more, somewhere to hang out the washing – the list goes on.

So, making a list of all your requirements is a good place to start, and then move on to developing a plan of where everything will go.

(PIC 1) Flower shows such as Chelsea and Hampton Court are crammed with inspirational ideas: if you’re lucky enough to visit, take a camera and notebook. If not, the TV coverage is superb. Even big-budget Show gardens have lots of features to inspire – this one has a pleached hedge ‘on legs’ that gives screening and privacy up high where it’s usually needed most in ordinary gardens.

Resist the temptation to get landscaping at once, and instead take the time to get familiar with your plot. See where the sun falls at different times of day and in each season, find out the sheltered suntraps or where winds whips round corners, in order to establish the most favourable spots - for patios, seating areas, scented blooms or early crops. Investigate the soil – is it light and free-draining or heavy and moisture retentive? There’s still plenty to do whilst assessing a new garden, such as clearing weeds and plants that are definitely unwanted, plus you can create a blaze of short-term colour with hardy annuals, and plants that can grow in containers whilst awaiting their permanent home.

(PIC 3) Think about future maintenance when planning your garden. Drought and sun-loving plants interspersed with gravel is just one alternative to a lawn. Or, reduce the amount of mowing by having a wildlifefriendly meadow lawn – just cut a path through the middle and have a crisp mown edge to show it off at its best. After all, naturalistic gardening is all the rage.

Check out what grows well in neighbouring plots and visit gardens open to the public for ideas: we’re lucky to have loads of wonderful places to visit in Devon, and gardening shouldn’t be all work and no play.

(PIC 5) Many Devon gardens are on sloping ground. Terracing a slope into beds (here using reclaimed railway sleepers) looks really good and is easy to manage.

(PIC 4) Make your money go further by creating features out of recycled material, like this driftwood fence. Another good budget-friendly idea is transforming throwaway items into plant containers – anything that holds compost and can have drainage holes made in it can grow plants.

2 www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

GARDENING

3

5 Seasonal jobs n

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(PIC 2) Grow your own five-a-day with regular sowings of quick-growing salad veg and herbs. There’s lots of leaf salad mixes; cut-and-come again lettuce; coriander and different types of cress. Even a few window boxes or containers will yield a good harvest.

Sow fast-growing hardy annual flowers for a blaze of summer blooms, to fill bare spots or colour new borders.

Nasturtiums, sunflowers, love-in-a-mist, pot marigold or calendula are ideal starter flowers. A patch of cornfield annuals looks gorgeous and entices lots of friendly insects too.

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Plant fragrant summer flowers near patios and seating areas for some home-grown aromatherapy, like roses, summer jasmine, mock orange or philadelphus, lilies and chocolate cosmos.

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Container grown shrubs, roses etc can be planted through the growing season but must be kept watered for several months until established. Ensure efficient watering by sinking an empty plastic pot next to the roots when planting, then fill this at each watering to ensure it goes deep down to the roots.

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Wildlife needs our help right through the year. Keep feeding birds with good quality food, in feeders so that fledglings don’t choke on large pieces. Put out fresh water in shallow dishes for birds and other creatures: refresh and clean containers regularly. Make gardens hedgehog-friendly by creating little gaps at the base of gates and fences, so they can freely roam around their territory.

4 Get to know your new garden for a full year if possible in order to discover all the existing plants. There may be drifts of beautiful bulbs like these Narcissus ‘Actea’ that won’t be visible in summer and autumn.

Choose carefully when planting trees and shrubs that will ultimately occupy a lot of space. Flowering plants like magnolias look sensational for just a month or so, whilst trees with decorative bark like this birch are attractive all year. Whatever you plant, make sure it likes your soil, and match its preferences for sun or shade.

Sue Fisher is a garden designer and writer based near Tavistock in Devon. Tel 01822 841895.

Email: suefisher@talktalk.net www.suefishergardens.co.uk

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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A friendly and ‘no nonsense’ Law Firm

A modern approach underpinned by traditional values

Fixed prices for most property work not based on the property value

‘No Move, No Fee’ Guarantee Free initial advice from a Solicitor Your case will always be handled by a Solicitor accessible by text, mobile & email

Please contact us for more information

www.sampson-solicitors.co.uk info@sampson-solicitors.co.uk 18 Burn View, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8BZ

01288 35 35 42

The Launceston office of Mansbridge Balment is situated in one of the town’s oldest buildings, possibly the oldest in the town square. Built in 1555, this Grade II* listed landmark building is one of the town’s most recognisable properties, famous for its lean and unusual down pipe. The pretty town square boasts a range of independent shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels.

The town’s church, St Mary Magdalene, is one of a handful of carved churches in the country and is part of the rooftop landscape along with the town’s 11th Century castle, which was built by Brian De Bretagne, the first Norman Earl of Cornwall, step-brother of William the Conqueror.

This area sees a variety of housing, with many hidden gems, making it a most interesting place to live and work. From modern housing estates to multiple listed buildings with their fine architecture, the Launceston office of Mansbridge Balment is able to offer a wide selection of properties to our clients.

commented on its diversity.

Launceston is surrounded by rolling English countryside and is yet a stone’s throw from the beautiful North Cornish beaches near Bude, all of which attract buyers from all over the country.

LAUNCESTON

Launceston

The peace and quiet of the location, married with its convenience to the A30 and on to Exeter and the M5, makes for an excellent choice for those seeking to relocate or live a more rural lifestyle with easy access to larger towns and cities.

JAMES DE CAUX

Many who have visited the town, including the former poet laureate Sir John Betjeman, who fell in love with the town, have all Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

LAUNCESTON 13 High Street, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 8ER

01566 770888

launceston@mansbridgebalment.co.uk www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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ASHWATER £1,400,000 An impressive rambling Grade II listed former Manor House with detached barn conversion set within approximately 21 acres.

Six en-suite bedrooms and five reception rooms, together with four further bedrooms within the barn conversion. Currently operating as a luxury restaurant with rooms, but equally suited as a family home with annexe.

Launceston Office 01566 770888

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Features • Grade II Listed • Available as Going Concern • Six En-suite Bedrooms • Five Reception Rooms • Conservatory/Dining Room • Grounds of Approximately 21 Acres • Outbuildings • Peaceful Rural Location • EPC Rating 76 Band C

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

Immaculately presented detached bungalow set within an exclusive cul-de-sac on the edge of town with integral garage and parking.

• Three Bedrooms • Private Garden and Summerhouse • Fine Views Towards the Castle

LAUNCESTON

Launceston £280,000

• EPC Rating 62 Band D

Lifton £400,000 A beautiful four bedroom thatched cottage with a two bedroom annexe set in this popular West Devon village.

• Wooden Greenhouse, Stone and Brick Outbuilding • Private Enclosed Gardens • Tandem Garage • EPC Rating 35 Band F

Maxworthy, Nr. Launceston £320,000 An attractive Victorian cottage set in approximately half an acre, located within the extremely attractive North Cornwall countryside

• Three Bedrooms • Sheltered Rear Patio • Garden Shed, Store and Polytunnel • EPC Rating 41 Band E

LAUNCESTON OFFICE: 01566 770888

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MARHAMCHURCH, NR. BUDE £495,000 A south facing, detached, Georgian (but not listed) country house of great character, set in partly walled gardens of just over 0.5 acre, a mile from the coast and 2 miles from the centre of Bude, offering annexe potential and with open views

Launceston Office 01566 770888

Features • Five Bedrooms • Accommodation Over 2,400 sq.ft.

• Incorporating a Converted Barn Housing the Kitchen/ Breakfast Room • Many Original Features • Garage/Store and Off Road Parking • Delightful Gardens • Garden Store • South Facing Aspect • EPC Rating 39 Band E

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A detached Victorian villa located close to the local amenities and with views towards the castle in Launceston.

• Five Bedrooms • Courtyard Style Rear Garden • Off Road Parking

LAUNCESTON

Launceston £260,000

• EPC Rating 37 Band F

Launceston £325,000 A detached barn conversion recently converted to offer a comfortable family home enjoying far reaching views and located on the outskirts of the town.

• Three Bedrooms • Summerhouse, Greenhouse and Workshop/Store • Landscaped Gardens • EPC Rating 61 Band D

Tremaine, Nr. Launceston £325,000 A charming character property which has undergone many improvement in recent years and is located within this small, rural village.

• Three Bedrooms • Half an Acre of Gardens • Garage and Off Road Parking • EPC Rating 52 Band E

LAUNCESTON OFFICE: 01566 770888

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Lifton £475,000 A detached period property with parts believed to date back to the early 18th Century having undergone vast improvements.

• Nine Bedrooms • One Bedroom Annexe • Garden, Garage and Large Outbuilding • EPC Rating 23 Band F

Broadwoodwidger £425,000 A traditional cob/stone farmhouse set in grounds of approximately 0.83 acres with uninterrupted southerly views.

• Five Bedrooms • Six Stables and Range of Outbuildings • Orchard and Polytunnel • EPC Rating 53 Band E

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

LAUNCESTON

Lewannick £295,000 The former Post Office and now a fabulous family home, this end of terrace house is presented to an extremely high standard.

• Three Bedrooms • Gardens and Stone Barn • Garage and Off Road Parking • EPC Rating 52 Band E

Yeolmbridge £300,000

• Three Bedrooms

A stone built detached gate house with stunning views from the fantastic veranda to both front and side of the property which provides all year round seating areas.

• Garage and Off Road Parking

• Gardens • EPC Rating 22 Band F LAUNCESTON OFFICE: 01566 770888

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ECO

EFFICIENCY With its low-rise green roof and large wooden entrance gates, Rumour is aptly named. Tucked away down a quiet country lane, anyone passing would see little evidence of the ‘grand design’ and stunning setting of this astonishing eco home.

Helen and Peter Silcock were fortunate enough to be able to gain planning permission on land opposite their original home for a single storey three bedroom new build home. After being inspired by a visit

to the Centre for Alternative Technologies in Wales many years ago, Peter set about designing a home which would give them self-sufficiency from all future utility bills.

With uninterrupted views down the Tamar River, to the Saltash bridge and out to sea, Peter has ensured he has fully utilised the properties south facing position.

Rumour has been built using alternative but not uncommon building materials, making the most of insulation both to the floor, walls

and ceiling to ensure that any heat that is generated within the house, stays in the house. Nudura ICF wall blocks were used to build the walls of the house and the inner gaps between the insulated blocks were then filled with concrete. Once the walls and roof were up (a relatively quick and easy process) a specialist breathable and waterproof render was applied to the outside walls.

Peter designed the house with a full length conservatory room running across the

SHEBBEAR COLLEGE

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south elevation – giving an outer and then a further inner wall of glass. As Peter explains, contrary to the popular belief that large areas of glass mean a loss of heat once the sun has gone – if double glazed and coated, or even triple glazed and Argon filled, glass windows can act as an extremely efficient way of gaining and holding heat. ‘Coating’ glass changes the wave lengths, letting heat in but not letting it back out. If new windows are needed in a property, ensuring the new glass is ‘coated’ is just one simple yet effective eco change anyone can make.

The house has also had several more obvious eco installations included in its design; photovoltaic panels (angled to take maximum advantage of the sun even during the winter) and 120 solar vacuum tubes - heat the water and give enough electricity to run the household appliances during the day.

Heat is stored in three volumes of water, 500 litre hot store and 2, 1000 litre warm stores.

Interseasonal heat is stored in a ‘rock store’ insulated stone with half a kilometre of pipework to transfer the heat. This ensures that Helen and Peter have sufficient hot water even during prolonged periods of bad weather and low sunlight or days when they have a house full of visitors. The hot water supply can also be supplemented if needed by their log burner with its integral ‘back boiler’. This is used in the winter when several grey days follow each other and when the ambience of a fire is wanted, £150 of logs used in the year.

Peter has also been clever with some more everyday items. For example, he has put a ‘Sun Tube’ into the windowless bathroom, giving a full wash of light during the day, negating the need for electrical lighting to be used. He has also removed the heat exchange mechanism that can be found on the back of all fridges and freezers that

ECO TECHNOLOGY

With an annual utilities bill of just £2.04 - a newly built house on the Bere Peninsula shows just what can be achieved with some eco pre-planning and the latest technologies.

generates its own small amount of heat and placed it inside the airing cupboard to act as a radiator. (The cable from the fridge has been extended and buried under the floor to enable this to reach from the kitchen to the airing cupboard). All the lighting in the house uses new LED technology instead of expensive halogens and a rainwater harvest system is also in place, to supplement their water supply (from their own well) to be used for the washing machine and toilet cisterns.

Although some of the eco technologies that Peter and Helen have used may not be an option for your own home, take a look at the Transition Tavistock website – where they list practical steps and measures that can be taken in any house to help save energy and cut the cost of bills. www.transitiontavistock.org.uk

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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C ar F w ith pe R us any Ca t C EE in p re le g ur K an th ch it in is a g ad se ve m a rt d e

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www.abeointeriors.co.uk

With its central location in the heart of the Westcountry and bordering the Dartmoor National Park and all it has to offer for the outdoor and active type, Okehampton is a perfect base for anyone considering a move to Devon.

The Okehampton office of Mansbridge Balment offers a complete range of properties for sale, from period cottages and Victorian town houses, recently built new luxury estates to large rural country houses, farms and estates, all set within the beautiful landscapes of genuine Mid-Devon countryside or within the dramatic scenery of the National Park.

Property prices in Okehampton represent exceptional value for money compared to many other regions in the Westcountry and we are seeing more and more home movers choosing to upgrade or relocate to this beautiful part of Devon.

Villages and communities surrounding Okehampton benefit from an excellent range of facilities both in and around the town. These include a large range of locally owned shops, several supermarkets (including Waitrose), a large recreational park and its leisure centre, as well as many sports clubs offering a range of activities including golf, rugby, football and many more. With the stunning north Cornwall surfing beaches less than 30 minutes away,

OKEHAMPTON

Okehampton there really is something for everyone!

Several of the local primary schools and also the secondary school, Okehampton College, have all recently received ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted results, giving families living in our area even greater benefits.

All the staff here at Mansbridge Balment Okehampton are highly experienced agents, locally based and therefore extremely knowledgeable about our area.

We are all more than happy to help with any enquiries and pride ourselves on our excellent client feedback.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch.

JONATHAN MANSELL & MARTYN COX Barnstaple

Okehampton Launceston Tavistock Bere Peninsula

Exeter

Yelverton North Plymouth Plymouth City

Truro Kingsbridge

OKEHAMPTON Bridge House, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 1DL

01837 52371

okehampton@mansbridgebalment.co.uk www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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BELSTONE, NR. OKEHAMPTON O.I.R.O. £600,000 A fine detached late Victorian property of granite construction situated on the edge of this much sought after Dartmoor Village and set in grounds of just under one acre including a half acre paddock, large gardens and an extensive range of outbuildings, offering a multitude of potential uses.

Features • Fine Detached Residence • Five Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • High Degree of Privacy • Paddock and Large Garden • Stable Block • Garage and Workshop • Excellent Views of Dartmoor • EPC Rating 35 Band F

Okehampton Office 01837 52371

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A beautifully appointed detached coach house style residence with large private garden in an exclusive gated development with resident’s grounds of 18 acres.

• Lovely Gated Residence • Sitting Room with Balcony • Breathtaking Countryside Views • EPC Rating 75 Band C

OKEHAMPTON

Chagford £475,000

Sticklepath £210,000 A delightful character cottage situated in the heart of the sought after Dartmoor village offering excellent access to the village amenities and the Dartmoor National Park.

• Two Double Bedrooms • Garden with Leat • Off Road Parking • EPC Rating 45 Band E

Caute, Nr. Shebbear Guide £475,000 A superb detached dormer bungalow set in level grounds of two acres with far reaching views and no immediate neighbours.

• Four Bedrooms • Stables, Workshop and Two Acres • Suitable for Dual Occupancy • EPC Rating 61 Band D

OKEHAMPTON OFFICE: 01837 52371

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Sourton £188,500 A very well presented converted chapel situated in a quiet yet accessible rural hamlet within close proximity to Dartmoor.

• Two Bedrooms • Two Reception Rooms • Many Original Features • EPC Rating 51 Band E

Whiddon Down O.I.R.O £305,000 A spacious and well presented Victorian property situated in the heart of this popular Devon village with excellent access to the Dartmoor National Park.

• Four Bedrooms • Enclosed Level Gardens • Off Road Parking for Four Vehicles • EPC Rating 41 Band E

Throwleigh £380,000 A superb detached cottage situated on the edge of Dartmoor and highly sought-after village with private garden and excellent views to Dartmoor.

• Two Large Double Bedrooms • Driveway for Four Vehicles • Workshop/Store • EPC Rating 60 Band D

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www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

A superb former Corn Mill and smallholding with six acres and outbuildings in peaceful rural location with Dartmoor views

• Four Bedrooms • Many Period Features • South Facing Six Acre Paddock with Timber Barn

OKEHAMPTON

South Tawton £499,500

• EPC Rating 56 Band D

Sourton £310,000 A detached bungalow with a range of outbuildings including kennels, open barn and building with three stalls and a good size garden, situated in this popular moorland village.

• Three Bedrooms • Moorland Views • Optional Rental of 3.18 Acres • EPC Rating 29 Band F

Northlew £625,000 A beautiful detached country home set in large gardens of 0.8 of an acre comprising a renovated and extended period house.

• Six Bedrooms • Outbuildings • Stunning View of Dartmoor • EPC Rating 59 Band D

OKEHAMPTON OFFICE: 01837 52371

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Hatherleigh £625,000

• Five Bedrooms

A beautifully presented spacious and renovated Grade II Listed Georgian house with many original features and of local historic importance.

• Large Garden and Outbuilding

• Currently Bed and Breakfast Business • Southerly Views

Sampford Courtenay £475,000

• Four Bedrooms

A delightful detached Grade II Listed character cottage in a quiet rural setting with mature garden and paddock measuring in total 1.5 acres.

• 1.5 Acres Paddock and Woodland

• Large Workshop • Field Shelter www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

OKEHAMPTON

BRATTON CLOVELLY £725,000 A very impressive detached rural cottage with a useful range of outbuildings including stables with pastureland and paddocks totalling 14 acres. Approached via its own private driveway the delightful south facing garden and the property’s seclusion are immediately apparent.

Okehampton Office 01837 52371

Features • Grade II Listed • Believed to Date from the Early 18th Century • Four Bedrooms with Two En-suites • Beautifully Restored and Presented • 14 Acres • Stables and Outbuildings • Double Garage and Parking • Peaceful and Private Location • EPC Rating 35 Band F

OKEHAMPTON OFFICE: 01837 52371

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Places to relax and recharge

Welcoming cottages throughout the West Country

WINNER

The Sunday Times Editor's Award

01647 434315 www.helpfulholidays.co.uk

...because it’s your perfect home

The feeling when you find your perfect home is something to be treasured and we understand that you’ll want your solicitors to do things in a particular way. Which is absolutely fine with us because we recognise that one size doesn’t fit all.

If you’ve found the perfect home, call us on 01392 666 800 or visit www.stones-solicitors.co.uk/property

taxes Each stage of property ownership leads to a potential tax charge from Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) on the purchase of a property, to on-going income tax on the rental profits, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on the disposal or gift of a property, to inheritance tax on the holding of a property on death.

The tax rules are forever changing and this can lead to potential traps. With a government election this year further changes are expected. Here we consider some that have been put into place recently as well as other opportunities for property investors.

Changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax Welcome changes to the SDLT regime were introduced from 4th December 2014, with the sudden jumps in thresholds being replaced with smooth bandings. The new sliding scale has removed the cliff edges that SDLT has long been associated with.

The new rates are 0% on the first £125,000, 2% on the next £125,000, 5% on the next £675,000, 10% on the next £575,000 and 12% on the amount falling above this.

The changes mean that SDLT has fallen on property worth up to £937,500, benefiting purchasers but also helping the market for vendors. At the other end of the spectrum it has meant an increase in the SDLT levels on property falling above this value.

These changes only apply to residential property and do not extend to commercial properties or mixed use properties, which remain under the old regime. The new rates do not extend to residential property being purchased by a company, which can have penal SDLT rates of up to 15% and on-going Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED) implications. The ATED thresholds have been lowered to catch company residential property worth over £1m from April 2015 and over £500,000 from April 2016. Francis Clark can provide tax planning advice to guide you through the purchase and ownership of property.

Profit planning When considering the income tax being paid on rental profits there are now other points to be aware of, aside from the actual rates in place. For example, child benefit starts to be removed where an individual

has income falling above £50,000 and completely disappears on income over £60,000 and the tax-free personal allowance is reduced for those earning over £100,000 and completely disappears at £121,200.

Planning with pensions or profit sharing splits can help to reduce these high effective tax bands.

Reducing taxable profits without suffering a real cost is also an option, by claiming capital allowances for example. Reviews on capital allowances on fixtures in commercial buildings remain an important area and should be looked at before a sale or purchase; otherwise the ability to claim can be lost and gone forever.

Non-Resident Landlords A reminder to all non-resident landlords, the UK CGT regime has been extended to nonresident landlords of UK residential property from 6 April 2015. Any disposals made will now need to be reported to H M Revenue & Customs and may result in a UK tax liability, which should be taken into account before a sale.

Property succession The inheritance tax nil threshold has remained frozen at £325,000 and with no reliefs available investment property can be wholly exposed to tax at 40%. Lifetime gifts to children or grandchildren can be the answer but must be carried out with care to prevent an immediate tax liability and to achieve the desired effect for inheritance tax. In many cases the continued income stream is needed and this can be a catch-22 situation when looking at succession planning. With the right advice there are ways of achieving this.

PENSIONS

OPPORTUNITIES AND RISKS Flexibility The new flexibility made available by the change to pension rules will mean there are massive opportunities to make pension saving part of your core financial planning strategy. Pensions now provide tax relief on the way in, tax free lump sum (within limits) on the way out, tax advantaged investment growth and now flexibility in drawing income or lump sums as and when you choose

ADVICE

PROPERTY

Francis Clark Chartered Accountants and Financial Planners has put together some useful advice regarding changes to Stamp Duty levels and the opportunities and risks associated with the new pension rules. in retirement. With punitive tax charges removed there is also the ability to pass on any unused fund to your heirs in a tax efficient way.

Change and flexibility bring many opportunities but also dangers. The simple fact that you are no longer compelled to purchase an Annuity with your pension fund means that the risk of ensuring that your pension provides an income for as long as you live now rests with you. This places a huge emphasis on you, the individual, to ensure that your pension assets are invested and managed in the most appropriate way.

Options for investments within pensions are hugely varied and can include collective investment funds, shares, cash and for those using SIPPs (Self Invested Personal Pensions) even Commercial Property such as offices and industrial units can be held within the advantageous Pension tax wrapper.

Managing Risk Understanding the impact of drawing an income from your pension whilst ensuring that the investment of the remaining fund is managed successfully is a technically complex operation and high quality financial planning advice is essential to ensure a good outcome.

Rethinking retirement income If you have other investments such as buy to let property that do or could produce an income, it is also important to consider how these interact with your pension savings. The flexible nature of pensions with favourable tax outcomes means that you need to look at your overall asset base when considering retirement income to ensure the optimum balance is reached regarding where you draw your income from.

Francis Clark Financial Planning have specialist pension advisers who can guide you to ensure you make optimum use of the new found pension freedoms and avoid the potential pitfalls.

Richard Wright is a financial advisor with Francis Clark Financial Planning Ltd Richard.Wright@francisclark.co.uk Jemima Fox is a tax consultant with Francis Clark LLP Jemima.Fox@francisclark.co.uk

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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Foreign Investment?

FOLEUX-Brittany, France £470,000

If you are looking to buy or have a property to sell overseas, Mansbridge Balment are pleased to offer a selection of properties throughout Europe.

This beautifully restored stone farmhouse has stunning views over the spectacular Vilaine river valley and is set within approximately two acres of grounds including an 8m swimming pool.

The farmhouse itself has four bedrooms, two of which are en-suite, and there is an additional self-contained barn conversion, which could generate income of around £15,000 a year. Further to this, we understand, there is a potential building plot for a detached house.

There are four terraces: one large covered terrace for games and shade, a breakfast terrace, a south-facing sun terrace with gazebo, and a west-facing evening terrace with awning and barbeque.

There is a garage and additional parking for a number of vehicles.

The property is on the market for £470,000 but could be split into two lots, with the farmhouse complex and one acre for £375,000, and the building plot and just under one acre at £115,000.

SANLUCAR de GUARDIANA – Spain/Portugal border £99,500

CATRAL-Alicante District, Spain £285,000 A luxurious detached villa, set on a 2500sqm plot with olive, orange, pomegranate and lemon trees. The enclosed gardens are walled and gated and include sun terraces, a beautiful swimming pool, and roof terrace.

The accommodation has air conditioning and includes three bedrooms, two of which are en-suite, together with a further bathroom. There is a large lounge, dining room and kitchen.

The villa is situated almost midway between Alicante and Murcia airports, both of which have a number of daily flights from all over the UK. The nearby mountains and El Hondo nature reserve are a haven for walkers and cyclists, whilst golf courses are extremely popular and accessible. A twenty minute drive away are the sandy beaches of Guardamar and La Marina. Both are backed by bars and restaurants or further along by quiet pine forests and dunes.

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Set within this delightful riverside village on the Spanish border with Portugal, an attractive three bedroomed modern house.

Accommodation incorporates the lounge with wood-burning stove, fully equipped kitchen, dining room, utility room, two bathrooms and the three bedrooms, one of which has a small balcony. Additionally is a small terrace, ideal for al fresco dining and barbeques.

Sanlucar de Guardiana, situated in an unspoiled area of Andalucía, lies on the banks of the River Guadiana, the natural border between Spain and Portugal. The village has a number of shops and restaurants, and the surrounding countryside provides a rich base for walking, cycling, sailing, and nature lovers. A small speedboat ferry to Alcoutim, the Portuguese village opposite, takes just two minutes.

With long, sandy, empty beaches within thirty minutes drive, the location has good road links from both Faro (1 hour) and Seville (1 hour 20 minutes) airports.

For more information about any of these stunning properties email nickhenderson@mansbridgebalment.co.uk with your details.

www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk