London Homes & Property (East) May 2011 by Runwild Media Group

LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area

C o v e r i n g CANARY WHARF, D OC K L AN D S , WA P P ING & T h e C i t y

LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Editor

Emma Mills

Editorial Assistant Gabrielle Lane

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Senior Designer Dalton Butler

Designer

Ashley Lewis

Production Manager

may

Welcome note...

s the seasons turn from wintery cold to blustery showers and finally fresh, warm days now is the time to embrace everything spring has to offer, shake off winter colours in both your wardrobe and your home.

This is a great season for new purchases, especially with the positivity that comes with longer days and endless sunshine, so take a look at our Development Focus on p.156, which showcases one of the most exciting new City developments, perfect for a central London pad or a great rental investment. In addition we look at how the housing market is slowly starting to consistently improve (p.154), and consider some alternative ways for first time buyers to make it onto the property ladder (p.148). In our Living Local section we look at some of the exciting new developments in Canary Wharf, including an eco project at Royal Docks, as well as a boutique development in Laughton and a new DLR station at Star Lane in Canning Town (p.126). May is a wonderful time of the year, as summer holidays beckon and the days finally get longer and hotter. So enjoy these precious weeks, with long bank holidays, warm evenings and a sense of happiness in the air. Happy hunting...!

Fiona Fenwick

Production Daniel Harris

Senior Property Manager Samantha Ratcliffe

Finance Manager Elton Hopkins

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

RUNWILD M

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London E14 4JB T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 info@londonhomesandproperty.com www.londonhomesandproperty.com Runwild Media Group cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Group take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

LONDON HOmes&

PROPERTY ShowcaSing the fineSt homeS in your area

c o v e r i n g c a n a ry w h a r f, D o c K L a n D S , wa P P i n g & t h e c i t y

Osborne & Little Wilde Carnation Wallpaper www.osborneandlittle.com

contents 126

154 living local

126 Area News 148 Mortgage Update

new homes

154 Property Latest 156 Development Focus 162 State of the Market

living local

areanews By Ben West

Landmark London residential eco tower greenlighted Silvertree, a landmark 24-storey ‘green’ apartment tower located in London’s Royal Docks, has been granted planning approval. The £80m development will commence construction in this summer, and will be completed in late 2012. The eye-catching eco tower will be home to 161 high quality, state-of-the-art one, two and three-bedroom apartments, retail, office and commercial units, as well as a café located on the ground floor. The tower will be the most significant new residential development yet in the London Borough of Newham. Apartment prices start from £250,000. The striking building will be wrapped with curved aluminium bands on two sides that will provide solar shading and electrical power from embedded photovoltaic panels and solar water heating, “The tower is a super cool, post-crunch design that raises the benchmark for living and eco friendly architecture in Docklands,” says Richard Hywel Evans of award-winning architects Studio RHE, which designed

Transport latest… When the new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station is completed at Star Lane in the summer, the Canning Town area will have an even more enviable transport network whisking residents all over London and beyond. Several DLR stations terminating at Bank in the City pepper the area. One, Canning Town, is also on the Jubilee Line with services to Bond Street and other central London destinations taking minutes. Canning Town’s overground trains spread to east, north, west and southwest London. London City Airport is also nearby.

the tower. “Silvertree’s solar PV panels, use of ground source and biomass to generate heat combined with high levels of thermal insulation mean not only will it feel comfortable to live in but it will also cost residents very little to run. It takes contemporary apartment living in London to new heights.” Silvertree is situated just half a mile from the Olympic Stadium, and has excellent travel connectivity due to the implementation of several new transport projects. Located near to the point where the new

Exclusive Boutique Development To Be Launched in Loughton Higgins Homes is launching a boutique development of eight two-bedroom properties in Loughton, Essex. The Pavilions will feature six apartments and two semidetached villas starting from £399,950. The villas have been designed to replicate a pair of Victorian houses complete with an original weathervane. www.higginshomes.co.uk

Did you know? Canary Wharf station is longer, at 265 metres, than the Canary Wharf tower, One Canada Square, is tall (244 metres).

Thames crossing cable car - which links Greenwich with the Royal Docks - and the new Crossrail Custom House station is being built, Silvertree is directly connected with the City of London and beyond to Heathrow. The existing Royal Victoria DLR station connects Silvertree to Canary Wharf, with Stratford main line station within 15 minutes by rail. London City Airport is two stops away on the DLR. Set on the waterfront overlooking the Royal Victoria Docks, adjacent to the £35m Siemens Expo building,

Silvertree will have a large roof terrace and communal gardens opening on to the dockside. To ensure residents will enjoy a high quality of life, Silvertree will be built to Design for Life standards, as well as to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4, well in advance of statutory requirements to do so. John East, director of planning and development services for the London Borough of Newham, says: “It has the potential to set a new standard for residential design in the Royal Docks, which we welcome.”

Olympics to generate £250m for IT sector The 2012 Olympics in London is set to create more jobs than were generated in Olympic host cities Barcelona, Athens and Sydney. More than £250m is set to be generated for the IT and telecoms job sector alone, according to research from IT recruiter Greythorn. The report estimates that 5,000 new IT and telecoms jobs will be created in the wake of the Olympics, as London 2012 requires an unprecedented level of technology services. In addition to the traditional sectors impacted by the Olympics, like construction, hospitality and retail, the Games will need a vast high-tech infrastructure to support the media presence, as well as putting into place cyber security measures and coping with the IT demands of those sectors. “The IT and telecoms infrastructure required to host the Olympics will leave a significant high-tech footprint on the UK labour market,” says Paul Winchester, managing director of Greythorn. “Five per cent of the UK’s workforce work in IT and telecoms, and government forecasts suggest 103,000 permanent jobs will be created by the Games.”

127

KnightFrank

Oriana House, London E14

Stunning three bedroom apartment in Limehouse A beautifully presented three double bedroom apartment situated in Victory Place in Limehouse. The property has two balconies offering stunning views to Canary Wharf. Leasehold ÂŁ665,000

Canary Wharf Sales KnightFrank.co.uk cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966

KnightFrank

Gooodhart Place, London E14

A beautifully refurbished townhouse in gated development A well proportioned three double bedroom house located in a popular portered Limehouse development. The house has been refurbished to an extremely high level and offers a wealth of internal living space as well as generous terrace. Leasehold ÂŁ850,000

Canary Wharf Sales KnightFrank.co.uk cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966

KnightFrank

The Forge, Forge Square, London E14

Landmark East Tower, London E14

Knight Frank are delighted to offer a brand new two bedroom apartment within The Forge. This two bedroom, two bathroom apartment offers contemporary accommodation at a reasonable price, with easy access into Canary Wharf and Bank; the commute into work is transformed into a matter of minutes. Wood floors are found throughout the living area, luxury kitchens and bathrooms complete this property.

We are pleased to offer this amazing one double bedroom apartment found within the brand new Landmark Tower. With unique features that are hardly found elsewhere in Canary Wharf, this apartment features floor to ceiling windows with excellent views from the 23rd floor. The apartment is furnished to a high standard. Viewings are highly recommended.

£375 per week

£385 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Discovery Dock East, South Quay Square, E14

Westcombe Park Rd, Greenwich, London SE3

This apartment is approximately 800sqft and is extremely bright and airy. In brief the accommodation comprises of a spacious reception area with room for dining and entertaining and offers views of Canary Wharf and The o2 via a wrap around terrace. There are two double bedrooms with excellent storage, two bathrooms, one is en suite with a walk in power shower.

We are delighted to offer this lower ground floor apartment close to Greenwich Park. Tastefully refurbished throughout, benefitting from solid oak flooring, a contemporary kitchen, a large living room and two immaculate bathrooms. Providing great storage throughout, this charming property also has access to a landscaped front garden. Available furnished or unfurnished.

£550 per week

£675 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank

Arran House, Raleana Road, London E14

Bridgehouse Quay, London E14

Superbly presented split level 3 double bedroom apartment. There is a large light and bright living/dining room with added storage area as well as fully fitted modern kitchen. There are three double bedrooms split over two floors each with storage space and two bathrooms. A large garage is included as well as parking outside the garage offering a rare chance to park two cars. Available furnished.

Arranged over three floors and extending to over 1400 sq ft, a well proportioned and spacious four bedroom townhouse with a wealth of outside space facing south over the inlet leading to Blackwall Basin. Presented in excellent condition throughout, the property boasts a large reception room with a well appointed kitchen as well as three double bedrooms and a fourth single.

£550 per week

£595 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Landons Close, Jamestown Harbour, E14

New Atlas Wharf, 3 Arnhem Place, London E14

This beautiful interior designed furnished apartment situated on the edge of Poplar Dock provides tranquil views from the balconies. Accommodation is large and spread over two floors, with the open plan kitchen/dining room/living room taking the whole top floor of approximately 704 sq ft. On the lower floor there are three double bedrooms, one of which is currently used as a study. Off street parking is also available. £750 per week

Located on the top two floors of a well maintained portered development, this spacious and well proportioned two bedroom duplex apartment benefits from two separate areas of outside space and wonderful river and Canary Wharf views.

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

£795 per week

KnightFrank

Mauretania Building, Wapping E1W

Prusoms Island, Wapping E1W

A light and bright 3 bedroom penthouse close to Canary Wharf and Wapping, with fabulous far reaching views of the river, a large separate kitchen two bathrooms and plenty of terrace space, a daytime porter and residents parking. 109 sq m (1179 sq ft)

Charming 2 bedroom flat on the third floor of a warehouse conversion, with roof top views. A spacious flat which has been comprehensively refurbished. Good sized reception room, kitchen, 2 bathrooms (one en suite), lift, weekday caretaker, garage parking space. 95 sq m (1031 sq ft)

Leasehold 982 years

Leashold 101 Years

Guide Price: £695,000

Guide Price: £569,995

KnightFrank.co.uk/Wapping 020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

China Court, Wapping E1W 1 bedroom second floor flat in west Wapping with a balcony and views over gardens. An attractive flat in good order with refurbished kitchen and bathroom. Gas CH, lift, resident estate manager, parking space. 47 sq m (511 sq ft) Share of Freehold

Spice Court, Wapping E1W 1 bedroom apartment in gated development in west Wapping. With a pleasant outlook on to pretty communal gardens. The flat has wooden floors, a smart new kitchen and bathroom and an unusually spacious reception room and 1 allocated parking space. 50 sq m (543 sq ft) Share of Freehold

Guide Price: £359,999

Guide Price: £355,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Wapping 020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank

Cinnabar Wharf, Wapping High Street E1W Stylish riverside penthouse apartment

Stunning penthouse apartment with incredible views of the River Thames and Tower Bridge, which can either be enjoyed from the apartment, or from one of the multiple balconies. The spacious two bedroom two bathroom apartment is set over three levels with a stunning main reception room with wooden floors and double height windows. ÂŁ1400 per week

knightfrank.co.uk/lettings wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7480 6848

KnightFrank

Shearwater Court, St Katharine’s Dock E1W Two bedroom apartment with dock views

Beautifully presented two double bedroom two bathroom apartment in the highly sought after City Quay development in St Katharine’s Dock. The apartment boasts a good size reception room leading on to a balcony with wonderful views over St Katharine’s Dock, separate fully fitted kitchen and good storage. £775 per week

knightfrank.co.uk/lettings wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7480 6848

KnightFrank

Gainsborough House, Limehouse Basin E14 Split level 3 bedroom penthouse

Beautiful bright 3 bedroom apartment in Limehouse boasting lovely views of Limehouse basin. The apartment benefits from a good size reception room with oak floors leading out on to a balcony and with spiral staircase leading to a further reception room on the mezzanine floor with the addition of a very large storage room. Wonderful spacious master bedroom with en suite bathroom and access on to the balcony. The property also benefits from a semi open plan modern fitted kitchen, additional bathroom, secure parking, porter and gym. ÂŁ995 per week

knightfrank.co.uk/lettings wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7480 6848

savills.co.uk

Eaton House, E14

City Tower, e14

Reception room  kitchen  2 double bedrooms (1 en suite)  family bathroom  2 balconies  parking  concierge  gym and leisure facilities

Reception room  kitchen  3 bedrooms  2 bathrooms  terrace  balcony  w.c  parking  concierge

£650,000 Leasehold

£750,000 Leasehold Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

New Providence Wharf, e14

Ontario Tower, e14

Reception room  fitted kitchen  gym  2 double bedrooms (1 with en suite)  family bathroom  balcony  concierge  parking

Reception/kitchen  bedroom  bathroom  concierge  gym and leisure facilities

£565,000 Leasehold

£285,000 Leasehold

Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

savills.co.uk

Cormorant Lodge, e1w

Icon Apartments, se1

Reception room  kitchen  bedroom  bathroom  balcony  24 hr concierge  dock views  protected parking

Reception room  open plan kitchen  3 bedrooms  3 bathrooms  protected parking

£750,000 Leasehold

£650,000 Leasehold Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

Luna House, se16

Lith Hall, e9

Reception/dining room  kitchen  3 bedrooms (master bedroom with en suite shower room)  bedroom 3 with en suite bathroom  guest w.c  study/office area  balcony  2 parking spaces

Reception room  open plan kitchen  dining room  6 bedrooms  6 bathrooms  cinema room  study  gym/playroom  patio  balcony

£1.9 million Leasehold

£6 million Freehold

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

savills.co.uk

Waterman Building, e14

CINNABAR WHARF, e1W

2 double bedrooms  2 bathrooms (1 en suite)  private parking  communal gardens  24hr security  residential gym and leisure facilities

2 bedrooms  2 bathrooms (1 en suite)  reception room  terrace  balcony  parking  24hr porterage  river views

£795 per week Furnished

£495 per week Unfurnished Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

Great Jubilee Wharf, e1W

Gainsborough House, e14

2 bedrooms  2 en suite bathrooms  exposed brickwork  original beams  balcony with river views  porterage

3 bedrooms  2 bathrooms (1 en suite)  covered parking space  private terrace  residence gym  porterage

£950 per week Furnished

£1,000 per week Furnished

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

Quick Response from Savills

QR tags are the little square graphic codes you’re starting to see everywhere. Our ads now carry them to provide you with our property information on your smartphone in an instant. Download a QR reader from your app store and you’ll be able to scan our QR tags. It’s a whole new way to look at Savills property. To learn more, visit savills.co.uk/tags

Savills Canary Wharf 4 Westferry Circus London E14 4HD 020 7531 2500 canarywharf@savills.com

Savills Wapping 80 Wapping High Street London E1W 2NE 020 7456 6800 docklands@savills.com

savills.co.uk

3474 Canary Wharf | Wapping QR Ad.indd 1

15/04/2011 16:06

Sales

Ontario Tower, London, E14

£245,000

Neutron Tower, London, E14

£315,000

A luxurious, bright and spacious 14th floor studio apartment featuring floor to ceiling windows and state of the art on-site facilities including: concierge, gym, pool & spa. This studio suite in Ballymore’s prestigious Ontario tower faces west and boasts luxury specification.

Situated adjacent to East India DLR station this two bedroom two bathroom river facing apartment is ideal for investors or first time buyers. Open plan kitchen/lounge with access to direct river facing balcony. Concierge and gym. Earliest viewings recommended.

The Oxygen E16

New Providence Wharf, E14

£419,995

A two bedroom immaculate apartment with well-proportioned rooms and a private balcony, Bosch kitchen appliances, wooden floors and floor-to-ceiling windows. Located adjacent to Royal Victoria DLR station, the Oxygen is a high specification development with a concierge and close to the Excel exhibition centre, home to many of the London Olympic events.

Pan Peninsula, London, E14

£650,000

A highly desirable 29th floor luxury two bed presented in immaculate condition with parking. The development has 24hr concierge, gym and spa facilities and is regarded as the the premier block in the area. Situated next to South Quay DLR station and only a short walk to the extensive amenities of Canary Wharf.

£475,000

Stunning large, 2nd floor two bedroom apartment in a peaceful, riverside setting offering on site, state of the art gym and waterside pool. The apartment boasts a high specification, luxury bathrooms and a contemporary style kitchen, as well as a secure parking space.

Ability Place, London, E14

£349,950

A lofty 15th floor one bedroom apartment offers stunning views and two sunny balconies accessible from both the living area and the bedroom. Finished to a high standard benefits include full leisure facilities and 24hr concierge.

Ontario Tower, London, E14

£510,000

An 11th floor spacious 2 bed luxury apartment offering river views from full floor to ceiling glazing. Includes state of the art leisure facilities, pool and spa and 24hr concierge service. Easy walking distance of Canary Wharf and it’s transport links, shops, bar and restaurants.

Langbourne Place, London, E14 £795,000

Waterman Building, E14

Stunning three bedroom, two bathroom duplex penthouse with an abundance of outside space, luxury bespoke finishes and spectacular river views. Secure parking / located close to Mudchute DLR.

A spectacular four bed, three bath duplex penthouse boasting over 2220sqft of internal space, with unparalleled views from four stunning terraces. Bespoke finishes throughout provide unique living accommodation quite unlike any other. Superb location. Viewing highly recommended.

£1,799,950

www.kingsturge.co.uk

Canary Wharf Office - 020 7715 9700 dockland.sales@kingsturge.com With London offices in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath and Greenwich

Lettings

Ontario Tower, E14

£300pw

Landmark West, E14

£380pw

Constable House, E14

£395pw

This stunning studio apartment is situated on the 13th floor of the prestigious Ontario Tower building and features solid wood flooring, comfort cooling, on-site leisure facilities, lift and concierge services. Blackwall DLR. Available 27th May 2011.

Stunning one bedroom 27th floor north facing apartment offers views towards Canary Wharf. 24hr concierge, and gym. Close to Heron Quay DLR and Canary Wharf Jubilee Line. Available now fully furnished to the highest standard.

Beautifully furnished, spacious two bedroom, two bathroom apartment available to rent on the 2nd floor of Canary Central. Situated close to South Quay DLR station and Canary Wharf. Available June 2011 fully furnished with secure parking.

Eaton House, E14

Ability Place, E14

Arran House, E14

£425pw

A bright and spacious 6th floor one bedroom apartment with partial river views and ample built in storage. Luxury fixtures and fittings and Juliet balcony. Available fully furnished with secure parking, May 2011. Early viewing recommended.

O SH

£500pw

£550pw

Bright and spacious 13th floor two double bedroom, two bath apartment with luxury fixtures and fully furnished to the highest standard. Secure parking, 24hr and gym. Close to South Quay DLR and Canary Wharf. Early viewing recommended.

Stunning and spacious three bedroom apartment located on the third floor of this contemporary development with large balcony. The apartment boasts dock, river and Canary Wharf views and has allocated parking and a garage.

Keepier Wharf, E14

Landmark East, E14

Pierpoint Building, E14

£750pw

Fantastic two double bedroom apartment available from 10th April 2011 to 20th June in the sought after Millenium Harbour development. Spacious living area with full river views. Fully furnished, 24hr concierge and residents gym.

£1300pw

Stunning apartment, offering three double bedrooms, three bathrooms and amazing dual aspect views of Canary Wharf and the Thames. Presented fully furnished in excellent condition with secure parking. Easy access to Limehouse DLR and Canary Wharf.

£1,400pw

Stunning three bedroom 37th floor apartment with breathtaking views towards the River Thames and London skyline. Luxury finishes, 24hr concierge and gym. Close to Heron Quay DLR and Canary Wharf Jubilee Line. Available immediately.

www.kingsturge.co.uk

Canary Wharf Office - 020 7715 9700 dockland.lettings@kingsturge.com With London offices in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath and Greenwich

www.alanselby.co.uk Sales

Lanterns Court, E14

£284,995

Frans Hal Court, E14

£329,995

A selection of brand new one bedroom apartments set within this stunning new development, approximately 300 metres from South Quay DLR station and within 500 metres of the Canary Wharf business complex. Lanterns Court also boasts fantastic leisure facilities of its own and a 24 hour porter. Completion due for May 2011.

Offering stunning views over the River Thames this 2 bedroom 3rd floor apartment with accommodation comprising reception room with balcony, separate kitchen, master bedroom with cloak room/utility room (formerly en-suite shower room) and Shower room. The development itself offers a security guard, parking and is situated approximately 650 metres from Crossharbour DLR station.

020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk

Arran House, E14

£429,995

Lothbury, EC2R

£1,100,000

Nestled on the north bank of the River Thames directly opposite the o2 arena this spacious two bedroom 1st floor apartment offers reception room with balcony giving spectacular views straight down and across the river towards Greenwich, separate kitchen, en-suite shower room to the master bedroom and bathroom. The development itself is situated 500 metres from The Canary Wharf business complex.

A rare opportunity to own a luxury home in one of the most exclusive addresses in Europe. This unique 2 bedroom Grade II * Listed apartment is located opposite the bank of England in the City. Arranged over 3 floors, with mezzanine sitting room and open plan living/dining area that leads to a state of the art kitchen. The fabulous master bedroom boasting a stylish en suite bathroom, this really would make an idyllic residence within our financial capital.

020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk

Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants

www.alanselby.co.uk Lettings

Switch House, E14

£320PW

Schooner Close, E14

£385PW

A spacious two bedroom, two bathroom apartment with separate fitted kitchen and access to a balcony, the apartment is offered fully furnished and is available immediately, the development offers concierge and is close to East India DLR station.

A spacious 2 bedroom ground and 1st floor duplex apartment offering reception/diner, modern separate kitchen, en-suite to the master bedroom, bathroom, garage with additional parking space and low maintenance rear garden. Located within 650 metres of Crossharbour DLR station, 680 metres of Island Gardens DLR and approximately 0.85 miles of the Canary Wharf business complex.

020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk

Balearic Apartments, E14

£395PW

Pilgrims Mews, E14

£550PW

Situated in the popular Custom House area is this spacious two bedroom apartment. With stunning views through floor to ceiling windows of the o2 and Canary Wharf skyline. The apartment also comes with a balcony, furnished and is available immediately.

A superb townhouse offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 being en-suite, fully fitted kitchen with French doors leading onto a decked garden overlooking a bird sanctuary, 2 parking spaces and a single car garage, Offered furnished.

020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk

Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants

Dundee Court, Limehouse, E14

£275,000 • Marina views £399,950

£339,950 • Balcony £349,950

House, Limehouse, E14 •Fleet One double bedroom ••Balcony Two double bedrooms ••River Twoviews bathrooms ••24Parking hour concierge

Two bedrooms • £339,950 • Two bathrooms • Balcony

£335,000

• Three double bedrooms • Two reception rooms • Two bathrooms • Two balconies

Contact our sales team today for a free, no £499,950 obligation valuation.

£525,000

020 7538 9250

• Large balcony £549,950 • River views • 11th floor £375,000

LD SO

Two bedrooms • £564,950 • Two bathrooms • Direct river views • Balcony

• Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms Neutron Tower, Virginia Quay, E14 • Direct river views double bedrooms • Two • Secure underground car parking

• Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Large reception Chinnocks Wharf, Narrow Street, E14 • Secure underground parking

Chinnocks Wharf, Narrow Street, E14

LD SO Dundee Wharf, Limehouse, E14

Dogs, E14

Hutchings Wharf, Isle of Dogs, E14

Court, Narrow Street, E14 • TwoLamb bedrooms • Recently double bedrooms • Tworefurbished • Fully• fitted Two kitchen bathrooms • Garage and secure parking space underground parking • Secure

Actions speak louder than words.

LD • Two double bedrooms • New kitchen Shackleton Court, Isle Of • Front and rear gardens • •Direct Close toriver DLR views

Proton Tower, Virginia Quay, E14

SO Manchester Grove, Isle of Dogs, E14

L SO

£629,950

L SO

L SO Malting House, Limehouse, E14

Medland • Two doubleHouse, bedrooms Limehouse, E14 Stunning Views apartment • •Penthouse Close to DLR station terrace • •Large Large reception underground parking • •Secure Marina views • £227,500

Neutron Tower, Virginia Quay, E14

New Providence Wharf, E14

• Two bathrooms £650,000

• One double bedroom £994,999

• Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Penthouse apartment •Millennium Secure parking Harbour, South Quay, E14

• Two bedrooms • River views • Balcony £449,950

020 7538 9250

• Premier apartment • Two double bedrooms • Wrap-around terrace Millennium Drive, Isle Of • Parking space

Dogs, E14

• Secure car parking • River views • Refurbished throughout £275,000

www.lourdes-estates.com

Lourdes Estate Agents, 94-96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP

L SO

New Providence Wharf, E14

£330 per week views • Marina

£375 per week • Balcony

£629,950

Fleet House, Limehouse, E14 • One bedroom • River views double bedrooms • Two • Leisure bathrooms • Twofacilities • Fully furnished • Parking £399,950

Dogs, E14

• Two £395 perbedrooms week

• Two bathrooms • Balcony £335,000

• Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Marina views • Secure parking

Contact our sales team today for a free, no £450 per week obligation valuation.

• Two bedrooms • Shackleton Two bathrooms Court, Isle Of • Secure parking Direct river views • •24 hour concierge

Medland House, Limehouse, E14

The Watergardens, SE16

Lamb Court, Narrow Street, E14 • One bedroom • River •views Two double bedrooms • Leisure facilities bathrooms • Two • Fully furnished • Secure underground parking £349,950

Actions speak louder than words.

The Watergardens, E14

• Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms Neutron Tower, Virginia Quay, E14 • Two balconies Two double bedrooms • Secure• parking

• Large £475 per weekbalcony • River views • 11th floor £375,000

LD SO

Seacon Tower, Westferry Road, E14

• Medland One bedroom House, Limehouse, E14 • •Fully furnished apartment Penthouse • •24Large hour concierge terrace • •Close to Canary Wharf Secure underground parking

E14

L SO

Lanterns Court, South Quay, E14

Phoenix Wharf, Narrow Street, E14

Basin Approach, Limehouse, E14

Ocean Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

• Two £600 perbedrooms week

• Two £1000 perbathrooms week

One double bedroom £1100•per week

• Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms • River views • Chinnocks Fully furnished Wharf, Narrow Street, E14

• Two bathrooms • Direct river views • Balcony £525,000

020 7538 9250

• Three/four bedroom house • Three bathrooms • Three balconies Millennium Harbour, South Quay, E14 • Marina views

• Two bedrooms • River views • Balcony £449,950

020 7538 9250

• Duplex penthouse • Three bedrooms • Three bathrooms Drive, Isle Of • River Millennium views

Dogs, E14

• Secure car parking • River views • Refurbished throughout £275,000

www.lourdes-estates.com

Lourdes Estate Agents, 94-96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP

2011-04-19 17:06:58

94.126.43.186

TOWER BRIDGE

Offers in the region of ÂŁ12,000,000 freehold

cluttons.com

020 7407 3669

towerbridge@cluttons.com

2011-04-19 12:56:13

94.126.43.186

WAPPING

Cormorant Lodge St Katharine Docks E1W A stunning penthouse apartment (approx. 2,839 sq ft) with panoramic views over St. Katharine Docks and Tower Bridge. This luxury apartment has excellent living and entertaining space, complete with a fully integrated audio, visual, surround sound and home cinema. Cormorant Lodge is ideally located for access to the City, West End, Canary Wharf and London City Airport entrance hall | reception room | cinema room | 3 double bedrooms (2 en suite bathrooms) | shower room | kitchen/breakfast room | utility room 24hr concierge | 2 secure underground parking space | 4 terraces | balcony

Guide price ÂŁ3,750,000 share of freehold

cluttons.com

020 7488 4858 wapping@cluttons.com

newhomes

getting on the ladder Ron Radway discusses some of the problems, and solutions, facing first time buyers

he basic issue for new buyers is how to raise the deposit to purchase your first home, and it’s not easy. Minimum deposit required by lenders is ten per cent, which means, typically, finding between £10-25,000 depending on area and expectations. According to the Council of Mortgage lenders, 80 per cent of all under-30s now need help from family to buy their first property. So, if you can’t save quickly enough, what are the options? Well, first port of call is ‘The Bank of Mum and Dad’ who might be in a position to gift a deposit, either through their own wherewithal, or raising funds from the equity of their own property. Grandparents can also prove willing to help by utilising an equity release scheme from their homes, which is proving increasingly popular (especially with the grandchildren), but also with the older generation who tend to regard the gift as a ‘living will’. They themselves will require expert advice if they wish to help in this manner. Some lenders have started to introduce guarantor schemes, supported by a close family member, again criteria is tight, but will work for the right case. The government has also introduced various shared equity schemes via housing associations, the details of which can be found on www.direct. gov.uk. Not all lenders support all the schemes and there seems to be an issue with consistency of government funding as it is not always available. Most lenders will allow up to four applicants for a single mortgage, so friends, relatives or colleagues could get together. However, lenders are, understandably, wary of such arrangements, as circumstances can change rapidly, leading to the commitment being compromised. There is no disguising the fact that buying your 148

first property is very difficult, in fact, it always has been, it’s not just a modern phenomena, but at least the above ideas may give a glimmer of hope. As does the news that the chancellor has raised the stamp duty threshold to £250,000 for first time buyers, which can only prove helpful. See below for some frequently asked questions from first time buyers. Q: I am a First Time Buyer, and have been rejected for a mortgage on the grounds of poor credit score, however, I have never borrowed from anywhere before, so could not possibly have any payment problems. Is this right? A: Unfortunately, yes! You are yet another unwitting victim of credit scoring. The lender’s issue is not that your payment profile is poor, you simply don’t have one at all, so they can’t make a judgment. The solution is to open a credit card, and re-apply for a mortgage in a few months. I’m not advocating you run up a debt, but use the card and ensure you clear the balance monthly and promptly, and that will raise your score immeasurably. Q: I am about to retire, the term of my mortgage ends at the same time, but I still have capital owing on it. Will the lender extend the Term? A: Quite probably, although they might not. In the first instance you should consult with your lender, and if they should prove unhelpful, there are others who offer plans that run after retirement. If depleted income in retirement is an issue, you might want to consider equity release, for which you will need specialised advice. n Ron Radway is a mortgage consultant for OneCall Financial Advice Centre. For further information, visit www.onecallonline.co.uk or call 0203 174 0422

London's Finest Properties

LETTINGS

SALES

Idaho Building, Deals Gateway, SE13

Mulberry Court, Cable Street, E1

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Gainsborough House, Canary Wharf, E14

• One Bedroom/One Bathroom • Highly Prestigious Development • Quality Fixtures And Fittings • 24 Hour Concierge • Gym & Swimming Pool

• 5th Floor One Bedroom/One Bathroom • Popular Development • Moments From South Quay DLR And Canada Square • Residents Only Leisure Facilities • 24hr Porterage

£300.00 per week

Starting from £315 per week

£269,950

Lanterns Court, Canary Wharf, E14

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

New Providence Wharf, E14

• Brand New Luxury Apartments • A Selection of 2 and 3 Bedroom Apartments • Walking Distance to Canary Wharf • Concierge Service • www.lanterns-court.co.uk

• One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 8th Floor • 24hr Concierge Service • Onsite Gymnasium • Nr. Blackwall DLR

Galaxy Building, Isle Of Dogs, E14

• 2nd Floor • Extremely Large And Spacious Apartment • Balcony With River Views • Close Proximity To Canary Wharf And Transport Links • Secure Underground Parking

• 4th Floor • Stunning Riverside Development • Two Bedroom/One Bathroom • Balcony • Valet Parking • Moments From Dlr And Jubilee Line

Starting from £350 per week

£355 per week

£309,950

£410,000

Westgate Apartments, Excel, E16

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E16

No 1 Pepys St,Tower Hill, EC1

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

£355 per week

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 11th Floor • Balcony • Including Parking • 24hr Concierge Service

• 4th Floor • S pacious One Bedroom/One Bathroom • Exceptional Order Throughout • Secure Allocated Parking • Fully Furnished • Porterage

£495.00 per week

£435,000

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Available Unfurnished • 6th Floor • Balcony • Allocated Parking • Nr. Deptford Bridge DLR

• Two Bedroom Apartment • F ully Furnished • 11th Floor • Onsite Gymnasium • Concierge Service • Nr Custom House DLR

• A Selection of 1,2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments • Furnishing Available • Short Walk from the City of London • Parking Available • Nr Shadwell St.

• Stunning 10th Floor Apartment • Uninterrupted River Views, Front & Rear • Excellent Condition Throughout • Secure Underground Parking • 24hr Concierge And Exceptional Leisure Facilities

£570,000

Sales | Lettings | Corporate Services | Property Management www.liferesidential.co.uk

Central London 020 7582 7989

West London 020 8896 9990

Finchley 020 8446 9524

Docklands 020 7476 0125

Deptford & Greenwich 020 8692 2244

REDINGTON ROAD NW3 A striking newly constructed four/five bedroom detached house (6,002 sq ft) of contemporary design. The house is arranged over four floors and provides extensive reception space over both the ground and garden levels with an open plan living/kitchen/ family area of some 2,500 sq ft leading directly out on to the patio and garden as well as an indoor swimming pool. ÂŁ7,650,000 | freehold REsIDENTIAl sAlEs REsIDENTIAl lETTINGs PROPERTY mANAGEmENT

DPS RIGHT 262002_CWharf_TK_MAY11.indd 1

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DPS

Hampstead VILLaGe NW3 A five bedroom mid terraced Victorian house (2,321 sq ft), which has recently been sympathetically restored and refurbished with flair and is located in this desirable road in the centre of Hampstead Village. The house is further enhanced by a landscaped tiered patio garden and is superbly located off Hampstead High Street.

ÂŁ2,950,000 | freehold 20 HeatH stReet Hampstead VILLaGe LoNdoN NW3 6te

14:59

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River Habitat RiverHabitat.co.uk

Belgrave Court, E14 Two bedroom apartment with stunning river views and terrace

WESTCOMBE PARK RD, BLACKHEATH, SE3 A fantastic four double bedroom house close to Greenwich Park

n Outside Terrace n Second bedroom ideally a single or use as a study n Balcony overlooking the river n Furnished n Circa 930 Sq. Ft.

n Four Double Bedroom Semi-Detached House n Large Open-Plan Kitchen to Lounge/Dine n Long Rear Garden of Circa. 80 Ft. n Front Driveway with Parking for 2 Cars n Heart of Blackheath. Available 14th of July.

£600 pw

£2,800 pcm

BELGRAVE CT, CANARY RIVERSIDE, E14 A superb unfurnished three double bedroom flat

EATON HOUSE, CANARY RIVERSIDE, E14 A Beautiful One Double Bedroom Flat

n 1,843 Sq. Ft, Wooden Floors Throughout n South and West Facing Reception n 3 Double Bedrooms, 3 En-Suite Bathrooms and Cloakroom n Portered Building, 24 Hour Security. n Available Unfurnished n Underground Car Parking Space

n 859 Sq. Ft. with Balcony n South Facing n Double Bedroom, Good Sized Reception, Bathroom, Cloakroom n One Underground Car Parking Space n High Spec including Coil Fan Heating and Cooling System n Portered Building, 24 Hour Security

£1,050 pw

£480,000 LEASEHOLD

• info@RiverHabitat.co.uk • T: 020 7791 9830 • F: 020 7791 9831 • The Suite LG. 655 Commercial Road, Limehouse, London E14 7LW

newHOMES

Your essential guide to new local developments. Read up to the minute information about star apartments, good investments, yet to be launched to the market properties, and the best in innovative design, architectural excellence and chic, city style. This dedicated section covers luxury projects throughout Blackheath, Camberwell, Dulwich and other select areas of South East London.

Development Focus

Penthouse Living, city style

Property Latest

Cool neighbourhoods on the rise

newhomes

Property Latest By Ben West

Neighbourhood on trend Discover the next uber-trendy neighbourhood and, as well as being ahead of the pack, buy early enough and you can really cash in. However, tread carefully, the next big thing can become so last year in about the time it takes a model to walk down the catwalk during Fashion Week. Or it may never live up to the early hype that surrounded it. It can be difficult to spot the next up-and-coming area: London is such a large, sprawling metropolis that several neighbourhoods are always going in and out of fashion simultaneously. However, by doing a bit of research, you can use the ever-changing property market to your advantage. Peckham is currently a contender. It has come a long way from ‘Only Fools and Horses’ and is set to really benefit from transport extension work linking it to the new East London Line in the next few years. However, at the moment is still relatively cheap and full of

Licensed estate agents helping customers win Estate agent Barton Wyatt is one of the first UK agencies to receive its license from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA). A licensed estate agency guarantees that at least one person within each office is qualified in residential property sales, either through a formal qualification or through length of membership through the NAEA. This qualification requirement is unique to NAEA licensed estate agents - the only license of its kind in the UK property industry. Barton Wyatt have five qualified members of staff. At its launch in the House of Commons in November 2010, the licensing scheme was given the backing by Grant Shapps, Housing Minister and Alison Seabeck, shadow housing minister. “We are focused on providing a high calibre service to our sellers and buyers, and being a founder licensed estate agent shows our commitment to remaining one of the best estate agents in the country,” says James Wyatt, partner of Barton Wyatt.

independent shops and restaurants, and some funky little bars too. Public relations consultant Lana Wrightman opts for Bethnal Green and London Fields: “Although I’m in danger of sounding like Kevin the Teenager, Hoxton and Shoreditch are so over! Hoxton and Shoreditch are so expensive now. The truly trendy types are leaving and moving to Bethnal Green and London Fields. “Alexa Chung and her Arctic Monkey boyfriend have a place in Bethnal Green and the area around Columbia Road, known as the Jesus Green estate, is seriously hip. Bethnal Green has just got its first boutique hotel, Town Hall Hotel in the former town hall, appropriately enough. London Fields is arguably even cooler and slightly more established.” Says Kevin Green, lettings manager at agent Keatons branch in Hackney: “There’s currently massive demand for rental flats in London Fields. If I had a flat today I’d rent it out immediately.”

Rental market recovery Firm evidence of the ongoing strength of London’s prime rental market was in evidence recently, as Knight Frank in Canary Wharf reported that rents rose by more than 20 per cent in the 18 months to March this year. This reflects a huge improvement since mid-2009, when the market was suffering from massive oversupply and weak tenant demand. Partner at the Canary Wharf Lettings office, Vanessa Evett-Beesley, says: “Aiding this growth is the fact that the volume of available rental properties has fallen considerably, by almost 20 per cent over the 12 months to March this year, compared to the previous year. Demand from tenants has held relatively firm, set against this weakening of supply.” The reason for this resilience in tenant demand relates to the fact that employment conditions in central London are much healthier than they were 18 or even 12 months ago. Morgan McKinley, the City recruiter, reports job vacancies have increased by 27 per cent over the past year. “Limited stock means that there are a large number of prospective buyers who are still locked out of owner-occupation and renting is their only alternative. While central London sales are outperforming the UK market, even here sales volumes over the past 12 months have been a third lower than they were in 2007,” adds Vanessa.

Two stunning penthouses with a large and spectacular communal roof terrace, views over the Olympic stadium, and across to the City and Canary Wharf, are currently on the market for £795,000. The development by Thornsett Group is situated in the heart of Stratford, only minutes from Stratford’s tube station. Currell 020 7226 6611 www.currell.com

Indescon Court This development is a set of studio, one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments in the heart of Canary Wharf. Each apartment is finished with premier fixtures and fittings, fully integrated kitchens and luxurious bathrooms and benefits from 24-hour porterage, underground parking, a communal plaza and garden roof terrace, gymnasium, health club and a great array of shops and restaurants nearby. Foxtons 020 7973 202 www.foxtons.co.uk

Property shortage Improvements in the lettings market have led to a serious shortage of properties to rent and agents are finding that they can only offer a handful of properties to as many as hundreds of applicants. “The rental market is very strong, possibly the strongest ever with interest rates low, rents high and a massive shortage of properties,” says Andrew Dillon of Midas Lettings, part of Midas Estates. “It’s a great

Lett Road

time to be a buy-to-let landlord.” Properties in the right areas suitable for students are especially doing well. Agents are finding that students are looking earlier and earlier and it is not unusual for them to start viewing properties in November or December to let properties for September the following year. Student rental rates are increasingly getting near to rates for the professional market.

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newhomes

DEVELOPMENT FOCUS City Central Bézier is one of London’s most important new apartment developments, offering a high standard of design and specification in an area close to cultural Shoreditch and the heart of the City

esidents of the newly completed Bezier development are completely connected to everything London has to offer - just five minutes’ walk from Finsbury Square, Bézier is next-door to Old Street Underground station, with car club access in the surrounding streets. The curved Bézier building has been designed to contrast to and compliment the red-brick buildings surrounding it, and the architecture echoes its name. ‘Bézier’ derives from a mathematical equation used to engineer smooth curves, and so the figure-eight of the tower has a sweeping curved frontage with full height glazing and balconies on almost every floor. Inside the lobby, with its stylised lamps and smokedglass mirrors, the concierge greets residents and acts as a porter, guide and first port of call for any queries, at residents’ service 24 hours a day. Two lifts are available to take you up to your apartment, or right up to the roof with its large landscaped terrace. This garden, one of two communal open spaces within Bézier (the other is a secluded courtyard), has spectacular views across the City and towards many of London’s other landmark buildings - and is the perfect place to spend time on summer evenings. The private gym, sauna and steam room complex are on the lower ground floor, where you can work out or relax; the leisure space is equipped with cross trainers, bikes, treadmills and weights, and there are male and female showers and changing rooms. The development’s attention to detail is apparent in the apartments themselves, which give the feeling of the city’s buzz while also being light, peaceful and comfortable spaces. All have strikingly curved floorto-ceiling windows, and the majority have glass doors which glide back to join the balcony outside. Inside, the contemporary open-plan kitchens have microrib surface units concealing a range of high quality appliances, with white gloss and subtle aubergine stone work surfaces. The bathrooms have sleek black gloss cabinets, illuminated glass shelves, limestone ledges and contrasting black ceramic basins and wide waterfall taps. Reception areas have Italian porcelain tiled floors,

Star apartment This spring, The Bézier Collection is launching a selection of two-bedroom apartments which includes premier units on the higher floors of the building. The two-bedroom apartments in Bézier are ideal for couples working in the City, who want to be close to the neighbourhood’s bars and restaurants and also to their work. The star of The Bézier Collection is a two-bedroom, premier apartment, number 109, which offers the height of city living. Both bedrooms are en-suite and have large dressing areas. The centrepiece of the home is the large open-plan kitchen leading onto a reception space which would suit the city professional who likes to entertain. From the balcony there are fantastic views of the new Olympic stadium and of the City, making Bézier the place to live in 2011. Apartment 109 is available for £1.7m; other twobedroom apartments start at £715,000 which are warmed by under-floor heating throughout. This level of luxury however, is also environmentally friendly - developer Tudorvale has achieved a Code Level 3 in sustainable design, with energy-saving biomass boilers as the primary source of warmth, reducing emissions by an estimated 15 per cent.

020 7490 1603 www.bezierlondon.com

EC1

Bézier’s location is a big part of its appeal. The Old Street hub - dubbed ‘the Silicon Roundabout’ for the creative businesses choosing it as their base - is a pivotal gateway to the City of London. Head north for Islington, east for Shoreditch and Hoxton, south towards the City and west toward the West End. It is convenient for the bars, cafes and restaurants of Shoreditch, Clerkenwell, Hoxton and the City. Brick Lane, Smithfields market, Hoxton Square, Upper Street in Angel and Columbia Road, with their antiques shops and flower market, are all close by. Restaurants within a mile radius of Bézier include Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen, The Princess of Shoreditch, and the Eyre Brothers, while the area’s nightlife ranges from cocktails and DJs at bars like Zigfrid, Shoreditch House, and the Big Chill, to live music at Cargo and the Queen of Hoxton. EC1 is also well-connected for jetsetters, with City Airport and London’s international rail terminus, St Pancras, a 15-minute taxi ride away. n 157

M ar N ket ow in O gS pe u n ite

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Finally released Our best waterside apartments At the number one address in London’s docklands we’ve saved our best until last – Prime waterside apartments overlooking Canary Wharf Waterside 2 beds starting from £555,000 Boulevard 2 beds starting from £370,000 Boulevard Studios starting from £265,000*

• • • •

World-class architecture Waterside restaurant Health and fitness club 24 hour concierge

• Captivating views over the Canary Wharf skyline • A collection of properties to suit all lifestyles from the ultimate pied-a-terre to extraordinary penthouses

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST NOW BY CALLING 0808 118 3567 Baltimore Marketing Suite, 6 Baltimore Wharf, London, E14 9AQ www.baltimorewharf.com

*Prices and availability correct at time of going to press

A Ballymore Development

se ou th ng en ini e p ma On re Built on the historic Lovell’s Wharf site and designed to maximise light and magnificent views along the river, Lovell’s offers a collection of bright, spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses with extensive terraces, all finished to an exceptionally high standard and ready to move into now. Penthouse £835,000*

A development by

Photograph taken from Lovell’s at 6.30am

val

l Na

oya

R Old

ege

Coll

Call now to book an appointment to view the show apartments 020 8090 0276 www.liveatlovells.com * Price correct at time of going to print

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Studio suites and 1 bedroom apartments available from £350,000

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Situated in Zone 1 within the silicon roundabout regeneration zone

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Minutes from King’s Cross/St Pancras/ Eurostar and walking distance from Finsbury Square

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Apartments ready to occupy

■ ■

Only 5 stops to Canary Wharf from Hoxton Overground station Within a 20 mins walk or 10 mins tube ride to many of London’s major universities 24 hour concierge, gym, sauna and steam room Rooftop gardens with panoramic city views Strong rental demand and attractive yields

T 020 7490 1603

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

E sales@ bezierlondon.com www.bezierlondon.com

THE BÉZIER MARKETING SUITE Bézier Apartments, 91 City Road, London

Prices correct at time of going to press. Subject to change. Map is shown only for illustration purposes and is not to scale.

TON HOX

Hoxton

SHOREDITCH HIGH ST

2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS CITY LIVING FROM £715,000

HOXTON STREET

THE BÉZIER Collection

living local

State of the market Alasdair Carpenter, Company Director of Lourdes estate agents, comments on the state of the residential property market

residential sales on the road to recovery

he last few weeks have ushered in a brighter outlook not only in the weather but also in the residential sales market. While market data for the wider UK housing economy does not present encouraging statistics, many parts of London and the South East seem to be bucking the trend. Docklands, for instance, has seen more transactions and a general increase in appetite from prospective purchasers in the last few months. Seasonality has, and always will be, a major factor in the housing market. For many in Canary Wharf and the City this is the time of year bonuses get paid. It is therefore reasonable to expect an increase in demand for localised property. However, not only are we seeing an increase in demand but, after a long period of restricted supply, we are now noticing more properties coming to the market. Vendors that have been concerned about the state of the market seem more confident in their ability to secure a buyer. The agents in Docklands that I communicate with all seem to be reporting a marked increase in the number of transactions they are completing. This happy experience of demand being met by supply is unlikely to continue forever. Ultimately there is still an air of caution amongst property buyers caused by the still vivid memories of the downturn in late 2007. Any major upward surge in prices could cause a sudden cooling in demand in what is still a highly price sensitive arena. The recent stabilisation in inflation might ease the pressure on the Bank of England to increase the base rate. This will further benefit those with tracker mortgages and those whose mortgage is currently set at the lenders standard variable rate. For the time being let us just enjoy the welcome change in both the weather and the London property market. n Lourdes Estate Agents 020 7538 9254 www.lourdes-estates.com

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OPPORTUNITY IS RARE. ELEVATE YOUR VIEW.

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PIETER VAN NAELTWIJCK - Real Estate Investments - Tel: +377 97 70 70 20 - pvnrealestate@monaco.mc KNIGHT FRANK LLP - Paddy Dring - Tel: +44 20 7629 8171 - paddy.dring@knightfrank.com Visualisation & Branding by SeventhArt

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