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Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
This property showcased courtesy of Hodsons. To view property details, see inside.
MOVING HOME? There are many things to think about when moving house. Don’t let choosing the wrong solicitor make buying or selling your home harder than it needs to be. Talk to Slade Legal about our specialist Conveyancing service. Abingdon 01235 521920
Didcot
• 01235 511211 •
Wallingford 01491 839346
www.slade-legal.co.uk
• enquiries@slade-legal.co.uk
56 Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
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Move or improve? You can do both
Front cover property
FREEHOLD
£500,000
Step back into history in a charming cottage LOCATED within the heart of Chilton village is this charming semidetached period property, dating back to the 17th century, and boasting a wealth of original features. The three bedroom family home is arranged over three floors and comprises a delightful sitting room with exposed brick and beams and inglenook fi replace, a farmhouse kitchen diner with separate utility room, and an additional garden room also with exposed timber wall on the
ground floor. The bedrooms are over the next two floors, with a fi replace in bedroom two and are serviced by a bathroom on each level, along with a study area on the landing. Outside there is a cottage style garden with ample off road parking. Chilton village offers easy access to excellent commuter links to both A34 and M4 while enjoying all the benefits of country living. For more information or to view call Hodsons on 01235 511406.
Will your property survive the energy test? Bill Cooper, co-author of The Oxford Property Blog and managing director of Martin and Co, Oxford
FOR landlords that are not aware it is now less than six months until the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards are introduced in April 2018, I have considered the possible effects on landlords and the private rented sector and some of the suggested methods to improve property that will fall under the minimum requirements. The 2015 Energy Efficiency Regulations set out new minimum energy efficiency standards for England and Wales. These regulations will make it unlawful for landlords to grant a new lease for properties that have an energy performance certificate (EPC)
rating below E, from 1 April 2018, unless the property is registered as an exemption. According to research around one in five landlords (21%) will expect to spend between £1,000 and £4,000 on energy efficiency improvements in their properties over the next five years, but in reality improving the energy efficiency of a property to meet the new legislation does not need to incur such high costs. For landlords who are worried about the potential costs of upgrading properties, financial support may also be available through the Energy Company Obligation if tenants meet certain qualifying criteria.
Here we list some of the markets top tips to improve your EPC ratings: 1. Don’t underestimate the importance of insulation in making a property more energy efficient. If the property was built before or around 1920, it most likely has solid walls. Solid wall insulation can be installed from either the inside or the outside. If the property was built after 1920 it’s likely to have cavity walls. These have a double external wall with a small gap between which can be filled with insulation. 2. Don’t just think of improving energy efficiency as something for meeting regulations, it’s a commercial decision too. Given most tenants are responsible for paying energy bills, some may be willing to pay more for properties that are energy efficient, so make sure you’re making the most of this as a selling point. 3. Without properly insulated windows, the property could be losing up to 10% of its heat. Double glazed windows make
AS property agents, we’re always looking for trends and patterns - it becomes something of an occupational hazard! However, being on top of what’s happening in the property market is a good thing as it allows us to advise our clients on their best next move which, in a competitive marketplace, is absolutely necessary. For a long time now, there’s been strong interest in properties for sale which require renovation. Period properties, those from the 1930s onwards and properties on corner plots prove particularly popular in this respect. Whilst this is the case across the whole of Oxfordshire, the closer in proximity to Oxford city centre these properties are, then the likely increased interest they’ll command. The type of purchaser that is particularly attracted to a property in need of some attention can vary depending on the exact task in hand and whilst professional developers tend to always be interested, we also see a lot of young professionals take on projects that aren’t overly complex. Doer uppers do, however, tend to be avoided by most fi rst-time buyers given the costs that these projects can involve. Demand for this type of property often means that we hold open days in order to maximise the value achieved for the seller and it’s not unusual for
a big difference when it comes to lowering energy bills as well as reducing condensation and noise. Instead of double glazing you could install secondary glazing which involves fitting a pane of plastic or glass inside the existing window recess to create an insulating layer of air. Though not as effective as double glazing, secondary glazing still saves a significant amount of energy and allows you to maintain good appeal by keeping original features such as sash windows. 4. EPC ratings look only at permanent improvements to the fabric of the building so think about long-term upgrades that will help to reduce heat and energy use. Simple things for example draught excluders will help keep heat in, but for the EPC you need to find permanent ways to fill the gaps to stop heat escaping through windows, doors, letterboxes and even keyholes. For those looking to bring their properties completely up to date, consider renewable
• We let properties and sell properties • No-one understands Oxford property better than we do • We aim to maximize landlord and home owner returns • We have a top-tier professional team
the property to sell for more than its asking price. And, of course, buying a property in need of work has a number of attractions for a buyer. When a property of this type is sold as ‘a bargain’, the reduced purchase price will offer the buyer some insulation in an uncertain market, whilst also allowing people who might normally have been priced out of an area a chance to secure something they’d previously not have considered. In many cases, this will free up funds which can consequently be used to refurbish the property to their own taste or, if they have stretched for the purchase, they can save over time and do the renovations in phases. In most cases too, planning won’t be an issue and even with an extension, if there are nearby completed projects of a similar scope, then you’re unlikely to meet too much objection. If you’re not afraid of rolling up your sleeves and you have a little vision; buying a property in need of refurbishment can be a great option, particularly in a more challenging market. Indeed, we’d anticipate that, on average, you can expect to achieve a return of at least 20% on a property that has been in need of some TLC. Andrews can help if you are interested in property renovation. Visit www.andrewsonline.co.uk
technologies such as solar panels with an at-home battery to store electricity for use even when the sun goes down. Be aware these will contribute to your rating only if they’re helping to heat the house, rather than providing electricity for other uses. Whilst some of the above mentioned suggestions will reduce costs for landlords to a certain degree it should not discourage landlords from investing in long term solutions for their properties. In the last few years energy efficiency for rented property has really started to take centre stage, with more and more tenants enquiring as to the properties energy performance prior to making commitment. It is now more important than ever that landlords embrace the changes that will be needed to ensure their properties meet the minimum standards necessary. In an already competitive market the changes you make to the properties EPC rating could be the difference between success or long term failure.
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Andrews
Abingdon
01235 888393
NEW INSTRUCTION
Abingdon
£174,950
Abingdon
£185,000
A modern one bedroom ground floor flat with allocated parking, situated 0.2 miles from Abingdon town centre. EPC Rating - C
A modern one bedroom flat situated just 0.4 miles to the ever popular Albert Park. EPC Rating D
Burcot £675,000
Detached Family Home, extended and upgraded to create generous and versatile accommodation in a prime South Oxfordshire Village. EPC Rating D
Abingdon
£300,000
Steventon
£345,000
A super three bedroom family home perfectly positioned within quarter of a mile of the River Thames. EPC Rating C
Abingdon £400,000
Grade II Listed four bedroom home situated in the heart of Abingdon-onThames, within 400 feet of the market place.
Open everyday 12 hours in-branch, 24 hours online at Andrewsonline.co.uk
A well-appointed, light, bright and cheery three bedroom property in this popular village location. EPC Rating C
To view more properties and other services available visit Andrewsonline.co.uk
58 Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
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by ber a l up em ive ncia gn v e a Si No rec fin s! th to on ee 30 17 ion ce f 20 uct rvi d se re
Sign up to Embrace Mortgage Services by th 30 November 2017 to receive a reduction on financial service fees! Contact one of our Embrace Mortgage Advisors to secure an appointment for this special offer. Full terms & conditions available on request Abingdon 01235 526907 Burghfield Common 0118 983 1201 Didcot 01235 818 371 Goring on Thames 01491 873456 Henley on Thames 01491 412345 Pangbourne 0118 984 5333 Reading 0118 958 7979 Shinfield 0118 988 5000 Sonning Common 0118 972 4242 Twyford 0118 934 4433 Wallingford 01491 833323 Wantage 01235 772670 Woodley 0118 969 3969
LSLi Ltd t/a Embrace Mor tgage Services charge a typical broker fee of between ÂŁ399 and ÂŁ699 on application. The amount we will charge is dependent on the amount of research and administration that is required. Davis Tate Ltd is an introducer appointed representative of First Complete Ltd for purpose of the provision of advice in relation to mor tgage and non investment insurance products. Mor tgage and Protection advice is provided by LSLi Ltd t/a Embrace Mor tgage Services, an appointed representative of First Complete Ltd. First Complete Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
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Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017 59
GOLD GOLD
south east estate south east agency estate agency
2016 2016
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HARWELL LAST PLOT REMAINING: Rutherford House is a superb, newly constructed five bedroom detached home approximately 2800 sq ft, and situated in an exclusive development of just 4 homes. EPC Rating B £935,000 Didcot office 01235 818371
EAST HENDRED An individual detached family residence of approximately 3000sq ft and set on a generous plot approaching 1/4 of an acre and abutting a vineyard. EPC Rating C £875,000 Didcot office 01235 818371
LOWER RADLEY An individual detached family residence set in a no through lane and on a generous corner plot approaching half an acre abutting fields to the rear. Awaiting EPC Rating £799,950 Abingdon office 01235 526907
NORTHMOOR A unique opportunity situated in a tranquil rural setting. Offering huge potential to extend and far reaching views across open countryside towards the River Thames. Generous off road parking plus a single garage. EPC rating C £650,000 Abingdon office 01235 526907
WANTAGE A rare opportunity to purchase an extremely well presented three bedroom house (constructed non traditionally of a BISF type construction) with a separate two bedroom detached bungalow. Awaiting EPC Rating £575,000 Wantage office 01235 772670
ABINGDON A detached family home situated c2.5 miles from Oxford and c2 miles to Radley train station. Living/dining, kitchen breakfast, four bedrooms and two bathrooms ,front and rear gardens, double garage and parking. EPC Rating D £525,000 Abingdon office 01235 526907
WANTAGE A rare opportunity to purchase an individual family home situated in this desirable and established residential location just a few minutes walk from Wantage Market Place. EPC Rating D £500,000 Wantage office 01235 772670
EAST CHALLOW A stunning executive four bedroom detached home situated in this desirable village location. In superb condition throughout, detached double garage and ample driveway parking. No onward chain. EPC Rating B £475,000 Wantage office 01235 772670
COMPTON A charming, extended 3 bedroom Victorian cottage on the edge of this popular downside village. Available with no onward chain and within catchment of The Downs School. EPC Rating E £385,000 Didcot office 01235 818371
ABINGDON A well presented and versatile family home, with an extended living room, open plan kitchen/dining room and useful garage conversion providing a fourth bedroom or additional reception room. Awaiting EPC rating. £350,000 Abingdon office 01235 526907
GROVE A substantial detached family home. Three reception rooms, four bedrooms, a large en-suite shower room and spacious family bathroom. Ample driveway parking, garage and a landscaped rear garden. EPC Rating C £350,000 Wantage office 01235 772670
DIDCOT A charming 3 bedroom period house dating back to the 1920s which has been thoughtfully upgraded and extended to create a practical family home. Overlooking the green and backing on to playing fields. EPC Rating D £285,000 Didcot office 01235 818371
Abingdon 01235 526907 Burghfield Common 0118 983 1201 Didcot 01235 818 371 Goring on Thames 01491 873456 Henley on Thames 01491 412345 Maidenhead 01628 566188 Pangbourne 0118 984 5333 Reading 0118 958 7979 Shinfield 0118 988 5000 Sonning Common 0118 972 4242 Twyford 0118 934 4433 Wallingford 01491 833323 Wantage 01235 772670 Woodley 0118 969 3969
60 Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
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Season independent living home welcomes first residents
OXFORDSHIRE’S newest senior living property – Season’s Millcroft – celebrated the arrival of its fi rst residents this autumn. Nancy was the fi rst to move in and she’s already enjoying the opportunities of this new and vibrant community. Making new friends was one of the main attractions of moving to Millcroft for 89-year-old Nancy and continues to be one of the most important factors for Season residents. Nancy had been struggling at home, but really did not relish the thought of a care home. She says: “Millcroft is the best of both worlds,
I have my independent, spacious flat and my own front door, but I have a package of care to support me - which will change as my needs change, that’s really reassuring.” “I especially like the wide corridors and doorways so that I can easily move round the flat and into the communal areas. “Where I previously lived was not nearly as spacious – there is no comparison in terms of space.” Moving to a care home can leave everyone involved feeling guilty and upset. Independent living – with 24/7 on-site care – offers a realistic alternative to residential care. Residents
maintain their independent lifestyle with the knowledge that support is there if and when they need it. Nancy was able to contribute to her care package so feels nothing has been imposed on her. She chooses when to get up or go to bed, when to eat, or go out to visit friends. Season is holding a Christmasthemed open afternoon tea on Wednesday 6 December from 2.30pm – 4.30pm with tours available. To book your visit email info@seasonhomes. co.uk or call 0300 123 7334. For more information on the services available please visit seasonhomes.co.uk.
Found your dream home?
Our experienced and outcome focused lawyers have helped hundreds of peoples property dreams come true. But don’t just take our word for it – here’s what some of our clients have said… “I would like to thank you for the excellent service you have given us in recent months. We were impressed with your service when we sold our property last year, which is why we returned to you for our next purchase. Again, we have been impressed.” “I have completed a number of property transactions in recent years and want to let you know that the service we have received from you by far exceeds that of others that I have dealt with. It is a pity that we didn’t discover you sooner!” Abingdon 01235 521920
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Didcot 01235 511211
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Wallingford 01491 839346
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www.slade-legal.co.uk
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Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017 61
GREAT WESTERN PARK COMING SOON Thinking of selling or renting your home? Ask Martin.
NEW OFFICE COMING SOON!
Martin & Co have an office close by in Abingdon, and already work with many property owners in your area. FREE VALUATION
We are opening our new office soon on the Great Western Park.
We will be pleased to assist you NOW by offering a free property valuation for the sale or for the rental of your property. If you have already instructed an agent to sell your property on a sole agency basis, you must consider your current agreement to ensure you do not pay more than one commission.
Martin & Co Abingdon 8-10 West St. Helen Street • Abingdon • Oxfordshire • OX14 5BL
Martin & Co Abingdon abingdon.martinco.com
8-10 West St. Helen Street • Abingdon • Oxfordshire • OX14 5BL abingdon@martinco.com
01235 524300
01235 524300 abingdon.martinco.com
62 Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
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a l c h E S t E R c h E S t E R t o N
•
P a R k
o X F o R D S h i R E
laSt two hoMES REMaiNiNG CALL 01869 244761 TO BOOK YOUR SHOW HOME VIEWING
This stunning development offers a superb collection of modern, high-specification 4 and 5 bedroom detached homes, with garages and private driveways, in an ideal location. Situated just 14 miles from Oxford city centre and a short distance from Bicester town centre, Alchester Park has access to a range of excellent local amenities, including a great choice of schools.
PRicES FRoM ÂŁ615,000 Green lane, chesterton, Bicester, oX26 1uu F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N O R T O R E G I S T E R YOUR INTEREST PLEASE CALL 01869 244761 OR EMAIL alchesterpark@hill.co.uk
www.hill.co.uk
External and internal photography is from the Show Home at Alchester Park. Prices correct at time of going to press.
Excited about autumn? We are!
If you are thinking of moving then contact Louise, Warren & the team for a wealth of experience in successfully valuing & selling property in Didcot & the surrounding villages on 01235 511406.
www.hodsons.co.uk
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Modern living for over 55s
* Apartment details available on our website www.grandunionhomes.co.uk Viewings available by appointment; to arrange a viewing please contact the Sales Team on 01525 844460
* Prices correct at time of printing. Rent + service charge payable on unowed share
64 Thursday, November 16 - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
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CALA H O ME S
BUY OFF-PLAN FOR THE BEST OF EVERYTHING JUST ASK CALA
Computer generated image of Edward Park
Edward Park, Manor Farm, Abingdon Road, Drayton, OX14 4HY
CUSTOMER INFORMATION CENTRE NOW OPEN THURSDAY TO MONDAY 11AM-5PM EARLY RESERVATIONS BEING TAKEN
01235 313 467
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A collection of 2, 3 and 4 bed family homes together with 4 beds with first floor study situated in the desirable village of Drayton.
C A L A . C O. U K
HS25OCT Telephone calls within the British Isles will be charged at local rate. Telephone calls may divert to a mobile service in which case call charges may vary. Prices are accurate at the time of going to print.