Fine & Country Abode - Issue 2

CONTENTS

the property and lifestyle magazine COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE - Summer 2017 Top tips for first time property investors / 06 Properties for sale / 20 The benefits of adding a conservatory / 32

Brought to you by:

WELCOME

- welcome I’m delighted to welcome you to our summer edition of abode magazine following a successful launch in the spring. We have seen an increase in sales in the first quarter of 2017 and hope to see this continue in the coming months.

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t Fine & Country, we have over a decade of experience in providing the highest quality service to both prospective buyers and sellers and look forward to continuing to build upon our success in the future.

Adrienne Dobson Regional Sales Manager

We sell more than just bricks and mortar; we provide a bespoke and imaginative promotional approach to sell the story of a home, enhancing the lifestyle of a property and focusing on the seller’s favourite features to truly bring the home to life.

The first edition of abode magazine received some fantastic feedback and I hope you enjoy our summer edition just as much. We’d love to hear your thoughts.

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the property and lifestyle magazine COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE - Summer 2017 Top tips for first time property investors / 06 Properties for sale / 20 The benefits of adding a conservatory / 32

Brought to you by:

- what’s inside -

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First time property investors

Good food guide

What's on

Top tips on how to invest in property and generate additional income.

The Black Bull Inn at Moulton strives to deliver dining experiences of the highest quality.

Make the most of the fantastic selection of outdoor activities from across the North East.

Office Addresses

Editorial & Advertising

Partners

Fine & Country

Narrative Communications

136 The Stables, Wynyard Village Wynyard TS22 5QQ

For editorial please contact Kristy Harmer

Tel: +44 (0) 1740 645 444 Email: info@fineandcountry.com

Tel: 07969 849 129 Email: kristy@narrativecommunications.co.uk

www.fineandcountry.com

Design & Publishing Narrative Communications www.narrativecommunications.co.uk

For advertising please contact Alan Dickinson Tel: 07982 719 373 Email: alan@narrativecommunications.co.uk

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CONTENTS

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32

Properties for sale

Could your house double as a holiday home

The benefits of adding a conservatory

Your home could double as someone's perfect summer getaway.

Consider the benefits of a conservatory before you commit.

From investment properties to forever homes, we have something for everyone this season.

What's inside

the property and lifestyle magazine

Top tips for first time property investors

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Good food guide - The Black Bull, Moulton

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What's on - Summer 2017

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Brexit - How will it affect house prices?

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Properties for sale

20

Sold properties

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Could your house double as a holiday home

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The benefits of adding a conservatory

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COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE - Summer 2017 Top tips for first time property investors / 06 Properties for sale / 20 The benefits of adding a conservatory / 32

Brought to you by:

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- TOP TIPS -

First time property investors

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TOP TIPS

Despite Brexit, the housing market is bouncing back and if you are in a healthy financial position, property investment is a very attractive offer – especially when you compare this to low savings rates and stock market swings.

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ore and more people are turning to bricks and mortar, and investing in properties to let is a great way of generating additional income.

So if you’re thinking of investing, take a look at some of our top tips.

> Get the right area To make a good investment in property, you need to find a promising area in which people would actually like to live. Think about which areas have access to good transport links, where the best schools are and if there are important facilities nearby.

> Do the maths Before you start the property search, sit down and calculate what you can actually afford. Make sure you take into consideration how much you want to spend and how much you hope to charge in rent in order to make you some money back on your investment – there’s no point in just covering the mortgage. Don’t forget to factor in any maintenance costs.

> How are your skills?

Buying a property that needs a lot of work doing to it to realise its potential can be a cheap investment, but only if you have the skills to make it affordable. If you haven’t your costs could run up quickly buy hiring skilled tradesmen to do the work for you.

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> Think with your head, not with your heart You can’t purchase a buy to let property with the same mind-set that you would buy a home to live in. Put yourself in the mindset of your ideal tenant. Is your property going to be aimed at students, young professionals or families? All groups will be looking for different things in a property.

> How hands on do you want to be?

Agents will charge you a management fee, but will deal with all problems for you and have good connections with a range of tradesmen. Letting the property yourself will make you more money, but be prepared to give up your time to deal with advertising, viewings and arranging any necessary repairs.

> Know the negatives before you invest Rates are low at the moment, but what will you do when rates rise? Make sure you have a comfortable surplus to ensure you can cover the mortgage if this does occur. You should also bear in mind that homes often need repairing and things can quickly go wrong. If you don’t have enough in the bank to cover a major repair, such as a new boiler, do not invest yet.

SCOTT NUTTALL | Mobile: 07772 007 647 | Email: siberianstoves@outlook.com

THE FUTURE'S BRIGHT

THE FUTURE'S WARM At Siberian Stoves Showroom in Shildon we can provide over 600 types of stoves straight from the manufacturer, ensuring that you get the most from your guarantee. > Provide Rip out & Rebuilds

HETAS accredited in:

> Twin-wall Systems

> Hot Water Systems and Safety Course

> All aspects of Tiling, Hearth, Inserts, Oak Beams and bespoke surrounds undertaken > Free Survey to discuss your needs and what you envisage for the completed look > Knowledgeable and enthusiastic team

> Water Supply Regulations > Solid Biomass Heating Systems > Part L Energy Efficiency in Domestic Heating > H003 Dry Appliance > H004 Wet Appliance

Come and visit us at our showroom for excellent knowledge and exceptional professionalism.

> H006 System Chimney

SIBERIAN STOVES PROFESSIONAL STOVE INSTALLER SHOWROOM | Unit 25 South West Durham Business Park Dabble Duck Industrial Estate | Shildon | DL4 2QN | www. siberianstoves.co.uk

- GOOD FOOD GUIDE -

The Black Bull Inn, Moulton The Black Bull Inn has something for everyone.

Whether it’s a quick bite to eat or an evening with that special someone, they strive to deliver dining experiences of the highest quality.

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GOOD FOOD GUIDE

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dentified as one of the most iconic destination restaurants and dining pubs in North Yorkshire for decades, the Black Bull benefited from a renovation in 2014 and has since gone from strength to strength.

It is known for its seafood dishes, but also offers a wide range of traditional pub classics including a delicious Sunday roast, as well as innovative meals for those who like something a little different. All dishes are prepared daily and contain seasonal ingredients sourced within the local community.

The Black Bull’s decision to remain a dining pub rather than a restaurant has contributed to its success, providing a relaxed environment for all. Visitors are also welcome to bring their furry friends along to this dogfriendly pub.

So if you’re looking for a relaxed, friendly dining experience but don’t want to compromise on high quality food, we would recommend a visit to the Black Bull Inn. Book your table today by calling 01325 377556 or visit www.theblackbullmoulton.com to find out more.

Opening hours Mon to Thu: 12pm - 3pm and 5pm - 11pm Fri to Sun: 12pm - 11pm Food served Mon - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm and 5:30pm – 9:30pm Sun: 12pm – 3pm and 5:30pm – 8:30pm

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Black Bull Inn Moulton, Richmond, North Yorkshire DL10 6QJ

- WHAT'S ON -

Summer 2017 The long summer days have now arrived!

Why not make the most of them with this fantastic selection of outdoor activities from across the North East?

Durham Regatta > June 10 - 11 The Durham Regatta not only offers thrilling racing, but a variety of attractions for everyone. Attracting almost ten thousand spectators every year, the event boasts live music, a classic car rally, a climbing wall, and a selection of great-tasting local food and drink. www.durham-regatta.org.uk

Mouth of the Tyne Festival > July 6 - 9 Taking place in the stunning Tynemouth Priory and Castle overlooking the North Sea and River Tyne, the Mouth of the Tyne Festival this year welcomes Elbow, Tom Odell and Laura Marling. www.visitnorthtyneside.com

Sunderland Air Show > July 21 - 23 The unmistakeable roar of the RAF Typhoon Display Team will once again ring out at the Sunderland International Air Show this year. Starting with its traditional spectacular launch at Cliffe Park on Friday evening, the event will see a wide range of aircraft and display teams including The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team and The Red Arrows return to thrill the crowds. www.sunderland.gov.uk

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WHAT'S ON

Kynren > July - September Taking you on a captivating journey through 2,000 years of British history, 'Kynren - an epic tale of England' explores everything from Roman times to the Second World War, encompassing the Viking and Norman invasions, medieval feasts, the splendour of the Tudors, the Industrial Revolution and the Roaring Twenties.

Bowes Museum: Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Gibside Hall: Wind in the Willows

> August 16

> August 23

Bring along your favourite bear and take part in our teddy bears’ picnic! Children and parents will also have the opportunity to explore the Museum, make a ‘crafty’ creation, and enjoy play and song time.

What starts as a search for the best picnic spot rapidly turns into the most hilarious of escapades. Alive with music and song, this magical family show is presented in beautiful traditional costume and features a woodland parade during the interval for everyone to join in with.

www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

www.elevenarches.org

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside

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Design & Manufacture of bespoke furniture layouts for discerning individuals.

HG Bespoke Furniture - the Durham based company responsible for the design and creation of some of the North East’s most iconic house interiors. Designed and manufactured in our own purpose built premises, we can supply market leading luxury bedrooms at a surprisingly affordable cost. Customer driven interior solutions for modern living, personal to you.

The HG Building, Mercantile Road, Rainton Bridge Houghton le Spring, Tyne & Wear, DH4 5PH t: 0191 5849855 e: office@hgbespokefurniture.com www.hgbespokefurniture.com

- Brexit HOW WILL IT AFFECT HOUSE PRICES?

This is a question that, like so many others when it comes to Brexit, is met with some uncertainty.

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worst-case scenario of an 18 per cent crash in house prices was suggested in one Treasury report, but whilst the housing market did suffer some unrest following the referendum, there was no major disaster. That is, however, because there will be little to no material change until Article 50 is triggered by the UK Government.

As the EU attempts to balance the interests of the remaining member states, it is likely that the negotiations are going to be a complex process, particularly with the UK’s effort to keep open vital trading routes. When investment begins to stall, it is anticipated that the economy will weaken and therefore, may affect the residential housing market.

Mortgage lender Nationwide believes house prices will continue to rise, but at a modestly slower rate thanks to the current uncertain climate.

Robert Gardner, Nationwide's chief economist, said: "Looking forward, house price prospects will depend crucially on developments in the wider economy, around which there is a larger degree of uncertainty than usual.

"Like most forecasters, including the Bank of England, we expect the UK economy to slow modestly next year, which is likely to result in less robust labour market conditions and modestly slower house price growth.

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"But we continue to think a small gain (around 2 per cent) is more likely than a decline over 2017 as a whole, since low interest rates are expected to help underpin demand while a shortage of homes on the market will continue to provide support for house prices."

Unfortunately, no one really knows for certain how Brexit will affect property prices until the terms of any UK-EU agreement has been made, other than to say it is likely they will be affected due to an uncertain economy, so if you’re thinking of selling your home in the immediate future, our advice would be to act fast!

Vivre House Wynyard PRICE ON APPLICATION

- For Sale or To Let A palace of pleasure offering luxury on a vast scale, Vivre House is one of the North East’s most outstanding homes. This exclusive property in prestigious Wynyard Village ensures a glamorous lifestyle without end with the ultimate in leisure facilities as well as opulent interiors and splendid outside space. With few properties of this scale or magnificence available in the region, it represents a rare opportunity that will provide its new inhabitants with the chance to reside in secure surroundings with all the space and every lavish comfort to live life to the full. Decadence aside, it is also a supremely practical home with six beautiful bedrooms and outstanding family and entertaining space. An indoor swimming pool and jacuzzi, with a swim-up bar and wine fridge, is the height of luxury while a gym and a games room with home cinema and bar above the triple integrated garage provide for all leisure needs.

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FOR SALE PROPERTIES

Abbey View 6

Durham City ÂŁ950,000

- For Sale Occupying a prime position in one of the most prestigious streets in the North East, Abbey View is an exceptional property of historic importance with awe-inspiring views. With an outlook that takes in the World Heritage Site cathedral and castle, the grade II listed residence embodies the charm, character and uniqueness of its location in cobbled South Street. Abbey View stands out for its Jacobean revival exterior with leaded windows and blackened beams, and many attractive, heritage features continue inside the property including stone flagged floors, period fireplaces and oak beams and panelling.

These have all been retained and enhanced in the creation of a comfortable home, yet recent refurbishments have also taken place to ensure the property meets modern needs and expectations. The kitchen has undergone a sleek makeover with high gloss black units to complement the cream Aga and solid oak flooring, and a contemporary wood-burning stove with log store and black tile backdrop and hearth create a warm and cosy sitting area.

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NOW YOU’VE CHOSE YOUR DREAM HOME Let us help you choose your

DREAM SMILE Join our new exclusive luxury clinic in Wynyard Business Park We are now accepting new patients and are delighted to welcome you and your family into our state of the art Dental Suite for routine care & Cosmetic Dentistry.

Fully comprehensive Denplan Care packages available from ÂŁ14.50 per month.

Children under 16 receive free dental treatment with a Denplan registered parent.

Unit 1, Chapel Lane South, Wynyard Business Park, Billingham, TS22 5TB | Open 8am-8pm Tel: 01740 644044 | Email: Burgesshyderwynyard@gmail.com www.burgesshyderwynyard.co.uk

Welcome to the new luxurious Dental Clinic situated in Wynyard Business Park Burgess & Hyder Dental Group, a wellestablished group of 12 practices across the North East & Cumbria, now offer Dentistry at Wynyard Business Park. Wynyard Business Park offers the ideal location with great links from the A19 and A1. Access is so easy our patients visit us from all over the North East.

At Burgess & Hyder Wynyard we pride ourselves on the exceptional service that we offer to our patients and we aim to provide the best treatment possible. We offer a range of cosmetic treatments such as clear braces, dental implants, teeth whitening and facial aesthetics.

Start your new smile journey by arranging an appointment with our Treatment Coordinator to discuss how we can help you achieve your dream smile and start smiling with confidence.

Heart LipsTM Treatments - NORMALLY £950 -

Special Offer

£550

Be YOU-tiful...

Come and visit our state of the art clinic for a Facial Rejuvenation treatment.

Here at Burgess & Hyder Wynyard we offer a range of facial aesthetics such as - Anti-Wrinkle treatments, Lip Augmentation, Dermal fillers plus the exclusive treatment Heart LipsTM which is currently at a discounted rate.

• 0% Finance packages available • No obligation free consultation • Check our Facebook page for our latest offers

What’s smile? holding back your Ever thought of having your teeth straightened?

Here at Burgess & Hyder Wynyard we offer both types of Clear Braces – Invisalign & Quick Straight Teeth • Clear - affordable - barley noticeable • Book in for your free smile assessment today and get the smile you have always wanted • 0% Interest Free finance packages available

Unit 1, Chapel Lane South, Wynyard Business Park, Billingham, TS22 5TB | Open 8am-8pm Tel: 01740 644044 | Email: Burgesshyderwynyard@gmail.com @burgesshyderwynyard | www.burgesshyderwynyard.co.uk

Sherburn House Farm 4

Sherburn House ÂŁ785,000

- For Sale Sherburn House Farm is an exceptional example of what can be achieved in refurbishing and modernising a rustic building to create a modern home of character that also benefits from being close to the city. Full of style and individuality, the four-bedroom property combines high quality contemporary additions with features that ensure its charm has been retained.

Original period fireplaces and exposed ceiling trusses and beams have been enhanced and complemented by superb bathrooms, a fabulous country-style kitchen and even a hint of modern urban with reclaimed stripped floorboards and filament lighting. The overall effect is that of a super stylish home that’s also practical and offers a high degree of luxury living. Secure off a private road behind electric gates, the property is approximately 10 minutes from Durham city centre.

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FOR SALE PROPERTIES

Black Thatch Barn 4

Stanley Crook ÂŁ750,000

- For Sale For a family seeking the good life in the country, Black Thatch Barn in the Parish of Brancepeth could be the solution for a fulfilling future combining an outdoor lifestyle with the chance to run a rural business Surrounded by countryside, the property comes with a paddock of 4.71 acres, stabling, barns and stores, so is ideal for a family with horses or other livestock, together with a vegetable garden and chicken run to create a truly self-sufficient lifestyle. Located in an idyllic setting with uninterrupted views to the south, the main fourbedroom barn conversion has all the attributes of a rural home of charm and character, complete with external stone staircase and numerous beamed ceilings. The property advantages also include a two bedroomed selfcontained cottage.

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The Wynd Wynyard SOLD

selling some of the region's finest homes

LD SO

The Wynd is one of the most sought after locations in exclusive Wynyard Village so this is an unmissable opportunity to secure an outstanding five-bedroom family home with an address to match. The purchaser of number 14 will benefit from a fabulous owners’ suite with lounge and balcony overlooking the golf course, while the family and entertaining space downstairs is also excellent in this detached property. Set back off the road behind a gated entrance leading onto a block paved drive and parking area, the discreet frontage belies the space and opportunities within this substantial home on a large plot. A study, with access to the integral double garage, and a snug lie off the reception hallway which has a welcoming fire. From here, the layout opens out into magnificent family spaces - a 36ft long dining kitchen and family area, and a 25ft lounge leading into a conservatory, all with doors opening out to the private rear garden.

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SOLD PROPERTIES

Fulthorpe Grove Wynyard SOLD

selling some of the region's finest homes

LD SO

In some homes the impressive features aren’t apparent until you get deep inside; that’s not the case at 25 Fulthorpe Grove, in exclusive Wynyard Village, where the wow factor hits you the instant you walk through the front door. The entrance opens into a magnificent reception hallway that makes an immediate statement at the heart of the house. Stairways lead up from either side of the central staircase and on to a 360 degree walk-round galleried landing in a modern version of the internal architecture of a large country mansion. Perfect for welcoming guests into the home as well as for family tumbling in from the drive outside, it’s a stunning first impression. As well looking impressive, the layout is also practical with the kitchen and three principal reception rooms reached directly off the hallway on the ground floor, and likewise the five bedrooms upstairs lead off the landing. This property has a garden to the front with double garage, lawned garden to the rear overlooking the golf course.

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Could your house double as a holiday home Could your home double as someone’s perfect summer getaway?

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or many, there’s only one thing to consider as we move towards summer, and that’s where to venture on this year’s summer holiday. While travelling abroad will always have a certain appeal, more and more of us are now undertaking ‘staycations’ – making the most of what the UK has to offer.

While you might never have considered your home to be the ideal place for a holidaymaker, the rise in online platforms such as AirBnB and Cottages4you have revitalised the way we look at vacation destinations – meaning that your home could double as someone’s perfect summer getaway.

Your property may not be able to offer the services you’d expect to find in a boutique hotel or guest house, but it could become a ‘home-awayfrom-home’ - providing a comfortable, private setting to enjoy a break.

So what’s in it for you? Well, in addition to earning you extra money, you might also find that you pay more attention to the upkeep of your home – creating a more pleasant environment and even adding value to your property.

As well as paying less than they would in most hotels, visitors will also appreciate the flexibility that could come from staying at your home – whether that’s cooking their own food at any time, socialising with yourselves or other guests, or even negotiating their check-in time.

It might be difficult to consider letting strangers make use of your home, but be comforted in the knowledge that you can take as much or as little control as needed. If you’re happy to hand over the keys, great, if not, that’s okay too – creating separate areas for yourself and your guests is more than acceptable.

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SOLD PROPERTIES

Foxwood Court Lanchester SOLD

selling some of the region's finest homes

LD SO

A stone-built character property in an exclusive development, 2 Foxwood Court represents a fantastic and affordable opportunity to move straight into a lovely family home in highly desirable Lanchester. The four bedrooms, three reception room property was built in 2002 as part of a conversion and redevelopment of former farm buildings close to the centre of the village.

Secure behind a private gated entrance, there are gardens front and back as well as a private parking bay and car port. Inside, it offers the best of both worlds, combining the charm and character of a rustic-style property with a light and spacious interior thanks to generous height ceilings and deep window sills. The country feel is at best effect in the lounge which has a beamed ceiling and a wood burning stove in an inglenook fireplace. The orangery-style sun lounge offers total contrast with lots of large windows, a sky light and glazed door to the private rear garden.

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- The benefits OF ADDING A CONSERVATORY

Adding an extension is one of the most significant investments you can choose to make, but this comes at a high cost and so it is only natural to consider the benefits before you commit.

> Increase the value of your home One of the main advantages of adding a new room to your home is that it will automatically create additional value. While a glass conservatory would make a great addition in south facing gardens, an orangery might be a better option in grounds which receive less sun.

> Create more space Another substantial benefit is the creation of additional space. Whether you choose to use the addition as your main living room, a place to enjoy the summer, or even an escape from the kids, it will make your home feel so much larger.

> Open your doors to the outside As well supplying year-long light, a conservatory or sun room makes a perfect transition and can actually feel like a part of your garden; meaning you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors whatever the weather.

> Let the sun shine in

> A cheaper alternative

A living space that is flooded with natural light is a wonderful place to spend time. While your enjoyment of the warmth may be restricted to the spring and summer months, you’ll enjoy the light all year round.

Although it may sound costly, creating a conservatory is still cheaper than moving into a bigger property. Remember that the costs associated with moving house can quickly add up, and that’s without redecorating or carrying out any necessary building work once you move in.

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SOLD PROPERTIES

The Steadings Durham SOLD

selling some of the region's finest homes

LD SO

Paint a picture of family life in the 21st Century and it is a complex one, from different relatives to the variety of home-based leisure pursuits. Properties, typically, have not kept up with these increased demands either on space, privacy or versatility. Number 4 The Steadings, however, is more than ready to cope. Whether there is a new baby in the family, student-age sons and daughters, an elderly dependant or live-in help, the layout and amount of accommodation is fit for purpose. On the ground floor, the living room is big enough to fit the largest of families. With a built-in bar and wine cooler and direct access through to a generous sun lounge and on into the private and well-tended garden, it is the perfect entertaining space. There is additional dining space in the kitchen, where the smart fitted kitchen has been designed to make maximum use of the area.

Located within a sought after location within close proximity of Durham City.

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