Whathouse Property section - Issue 45 MIE

THE LOCAL

PROPERTY PAPER

FROM

whathouse.com

Attention!Heritage garrison home for sale, P29

EDITIO

N A

UG

UST 28 2015

Changes to mortgage rules

in 2014 have made it more

difficult to get a home loan.

Lenders are now asking

more questions as part of

your mortgage interview

and are analysing your

spending habits more closely than they have

ever done before in order to ensure your

new mortgage is affordable to you.

A report in the Daily Mirror has also

revealed that lenders are turning to social

media to check that applicants are telling

the truth in their applications. So, how

could your LinkedIn profile or Instagram

account sabotage your mortgage application

– or even send you to jail.

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO IDENTIFY MORTGAGE FRAUDSpecialist trade magazine Mortgage

Solutions has revealed that lenders are

increasingly turning to social media to

establish that mortgage applicants are

telling the truth. Underwriters at banks

and building societies are browsing your

Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and other

social media accounts to make sure that the

information you give to them is correct.

The Daily Mirror recently reported a case

where a lender found an applicant claiming

to be a UK resident only ever posted photos

of Dubai on their Instagram account.

Mortgage broker Dominik Lipnicki says:

“Whether you’re applying for a job or you

are applying for finance, especially a big

commitment like a mortgage, what you put

on the internet can be available to everyone.

Take your job history on LinkedIn. Lenders

can see if you’ve just recently resigned after

saying you’re in full employment, or even

if you have ill health. Or if you’re posting

about a messy separation on Facebook, but

you told the lender you’re applying on a

joint income.”

HIDING INFORMATION COULD LAND YOU A TERM IN PRISONWhile it may make sense for you to be

discreet with your private life, Lipnicki

stresses that the answer is not to hide

important facts from the lender. He adds:

“Clients should be aware that lying on an

application form is committing mortgage

fraud. It’s not just a case of being turned

down, it could be much more serious.”

Keith Osborne, editor of new homes

website Whathouse.com agrees. He says:

“Tweaking your application to make it look

more favourable to a lender might seem

innocent enough but it could land you in

big trouble. Pretending you have fewer

children to meet affordability

rules or exaggerating your job is

considered mortgage fraud and if

you are caught you could end up in

prison.”

He adds: “Trying to pull the wool over a

lender’s eyes often won’t work, especially

if they can access information about you

through social media. A better idea is to

change your spending habits before you

apply for a mortgage and to keep your

current account in good order.”

Why your mortgage lender might be checking you out on social mediaIf you’re applying for a mortgage, make sure your social media revelations don’t scupper your chances, warns Nick Parkhouse

40 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM MORTGAGES

VIRIDIUMCamberley, Surrey

Luxury collection of 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments.

To book an appointment

call: 01276 66693

*Available with Help to Buy subject to terms and conditions

• Award winning development 2015 FTB awards

• Gated entrance with parking

• Stunning spacious apartments with Balcony or terrace

• Carpets included

• Luxury fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms

• Help to Buy available

JUST 5%DEPOSIT*

HODSONDEVELOPMENTS

Prices from

£285,000

Changes to mortgage rules

in 2014 have made it more

difficult to get a home loan.

Lenders are now asking

more questions as part of

your mortgage interview

and are analysing your

spending habits more closely than they have

ever done before in order to ensure your

new mortgage is affordable to you.

A report in the Daily Mirror has also

revealed that lenders are turning to social

media to check that applicants are telling

the truth in their applications. So, how

could your LinkedIn profile or Instagram

account sabotage your mortgage application

– or even send you to jail.

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO IDENTIFY MORTGAGE FRAUDSpecialist trade magazine Mortgage

Solutions has revealed that lenders are

increasingly turning to social media to

establish that mortgage applicants are

telling the truth. Underwriters at banks

and building societies are browsing your

Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and other

social media accounts to make sure that the

information you give to them is correct.

The Daily Mirror recently reported a case

where a lender found an applicant claiming

to be a UK resident only ever posted photos

of Dubai on their Instagram account.

Mortgage broker Dominik Lipnicki says:

“Whether you’re applying for a job or you

are applying for finance, especially a big

commitment like a mortgage, what you put

on the internet can be available to everyone.

Take your job history on LinkedIn. Lenders

can see if you’ve just recently resigned after

saying you’re in full employment, or even

if you have ill health. Or if you’re posting

about a messy separation on Facebook, but

you told the lender you’re applying on a

joint income.”

HIDING INFORMATION COULD LAND YOU A TERM IN PRISONWhile it may make sense for you to be

discreet with your private life, Lipnicki

stresses that the answer is not to hide

important facts from the lender. He adds:

“Clients should be aware that lying on an

application form is committing mortgage

fraud. It’s not just a case of being turned

down, it could be much more serious.”

Keith Osborne, editor of new homes

website Whathouse.com agrees. He says:

“Tweaking your application to make it look

more favourable to a lender might seem

innocent enough but it could land you in

big trouble. Pretending you have fewer

children to meet affordability

rules or exaggerating your job is

considered mortgage fraud and if

you are caught you could end up in

prison.”

He adds: “Trying to pull the wool over a

lender’s eyes often won’t work, especially

if they can access information about you

through social media. A better idea is to

change your spending habits before you

apply for a mortgage and to keep your

current account in good order.”

Why your mortgage lender might be checking you out on social mediaIf you’re applying for a mortgage, make sure your social media revelations don’t scupper your chances, warns Nick Parkhouse

40 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM MORTGAGES

VIRIDIUMCamberley, Surrey

Luxury collection of 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments.

To book an appointment

call: 01276 66693

*Available with Help to Buy subject to terms and conditions

• Award winning development 2015 FTB awards

• Gated entrance with parking

• Stunning spacious apartments with Balcony or terrace

• Carpets included

• Luxury fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms

• Help to Buy available

JUST 5%DEPOSIT*

HODSONDEVELOPMENTS

Prices from

£285,000

20 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM

AREA FOCUS WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 21

Long before the wannabes

of TOWIE brought

the town to national

fame, Brentwood has

regularly been the home

of celebrities from the

worlds of television, sport

and music. It remains a

sought-after area to live

but as our ‘picks’ below prove, you don’t have

to be rich and famous to realistically aspire

to a new home in and around Brentwood.

The town’s appeal is surely its ‘best of

all worlds’ qualities – set in pleasant

countryside, only a short commute by

rail into London, close to the M25, and

with superb local amenities and excellent

schooling.

Land Registry figures showed capital

appreciation rising 13% on average in

Brentwood in 2014, and many property

industry professionals predicts further

significant increases as the launch of

Crossrail approaches in 2018. Real estate

experts JLL reported at the beginning of

this year that property calues in Brentwood

are likely to increase by 43% over the next

five years, partly due to these improved rail

services to and through London.

With the property market in the area

dominated by family detached and semi-

detached homes, this is likely to benefit

homeowners more than traditional buy-to-let

investors who target flats. While Brentwood

Borough Council recognises that the private

rented sector is small, there will certainly be

increased demand for rented property if the

predicted effects of Crossrail come true.

The council’s Objectively Assessed Housing

Needs report from December 2014 indicates

that Brentwood needs around 350 new

homes a year to keep up with demand,

mostly from ‘migrating’ residents attracted

to the area. As with many other satellite

towns around London, Brentwood will be a

target for families finding themselves priced

out of suitable homes in the capital and

wanting the kind of work/life balance that

Brentwood provides.

If you aspire to buy a new home in

Brentwood, now could be exactly the right

time to consider your options and make the

move.

WhatHouse? picks...

1. Hatch Road, Pilgrims Hatch (Country Places)

Pilgrims Hatch is a sought-after area, not

least due to its proximity to two country

parks (Weald and Bishop�s Hall) and two golf

courses, Brentwood Golf Club and Bentley.

These new homes have an appealing,

traditional weatherboarded exterior. The

three-bedroom semi-detached property

(priced at £450,000) opens from the side to a

hallway with cloakroom; off one side is the

lounge and the other is the kitchen, with an

L-shaped worktop arrangement. Upstairs

are two double bedrooms, with built-in

wardrobes to the master bedroom, a single

bedroom and family bathroom.

Find out more at www.countryplaces.co.uk

01277 204768

2. The Galleries (City & Country Group)

The Galleries has won numerous awards

– including those from WhatHouse? – but

availability is now low at this collection of

one-, two- and three-bedroom conversion

and new build apartments on the site

of the former Warley Hospital, on the

outskirts of the town. Each conversion

apartment offers a wealth of period features

coupled with contemporary living, while

the new build apartments are designed

to sit inconspicuously alongside. All

homeowners can enjoy the beautiful

landscaped grounds, with open lawns and

enclosed, formal planted gardens. The

station and shops are under a mile away.

Prices start at £420,000.

Find out more at

www.cityandcountry.co.uk; 01279 817 882

3. Brindles Close, Hutton (Hilbery Chaplin)

This new development of just three high-

quality four-bedroom detached executive

homes is due for completion this winter.

These new homes are situated in a cul-de-

sac off Hanging Hill Lane. Among them

is ‘Vine Cottage’ which comprises hallway,

bay-fronted living room, open-plan kitchen/

family room, utility room, ground floor

cloakroom and integral garage, four well-

proportioned bedrooms, en suite to the

master and a family bathroom. With the

properties within the catchment area for the

popular St. Martins School and only a short

distance from Shenfield mainline railway

station there’s great appeal to commuters

and families. Guide price is around

£650,000.

Find out more at

www.hilberychaplin.co.uk; 01277 218387

You don’t have to be a star...Famed for its celebrity connections, Brentwood has some great options for every fan of new build property

Managing director: Daniel HillEditorial director: Rupert BatesEditor: Keith Osborne [email protected] editor: Stephen Maunder [email protected]: Peter Rogers [email protected]: Fiona Brandhorst, Nick ParkhouseSales director: Adrian Talbot [email protected] manager: Murad Paloda [email protected] supplement published by: What House Digital Limited, 291-299 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JG; 020 7940 1070 [email protected] www.whathouse.comPrinted by 39zero© 2015 What House Digital Limited

THE LOCAL

PROPERTY PAPER

FROM

whathouse.com

Attention!Heritage garrison home for sale, P29

EDITIO

N A

UG

UST 28 2015

Cover picture: Cover picture: Military Road, Colchester from William H Brown, £700,000 01279 755400

What House? @What_House

1 2

3

...Buying a new home is a big decision, so you’ll want to know that your property is of good quality and your investment well protected.

Only builders approved and registered by NHBC can offer Buildmark, and they must build to the detailed technical standards we have

been developing and updating for more than 75 years.

It will give you peace of mind to know that all new homes with NHBC’s Buildmark have been independently inspected at key stages

during construction, and come with 10 years’ warranty and insurance.

This gives you the reassurance that, on the rare occasion when something does go wrong, we’re here to help you.

So, before you buy a new home, make sure it has Buildmark.

NHBC – the mark of a quality home

H82 02/14

Talk to us... Call us now on 0844 633 1000 and ask for ‘Customer Services’. Or visit www.nhbc.co.uk/myhome

H82_What House? advert_v1.indd 1 19/02/2014 12:15

URBAN HOMES WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 23

Witham

BRIDGE STREETCroft House is a beautiful Grade II listed property built in the

18th century, set on a large plot with many historic features

throughout including original doors and fireplaces, exposed

beams and sash windows. There are five bedrooms in the

former dairy, three reception rooms and an Aga in the kitchen.

The garden has a superb array of mature trees, shrubs and

borders, including vegetable patches and a natural spring that

runs through. There is off-street parking for several cars and a

workshop.

Included in the sale is Little Newmans, a detached bungalow

situated to the rear of the main house, providing handy

accommodation for relatives or to rent out. It has its own

driveway and parking and a section of garden. Croft House is

a stone's throw from Witham town centre as well as walking

distance to the mainline station.

Price: £595,000

Selling agent: Haart 01376 510710

NEWLAND STREETThis attractive four-bedroom detached Victorian property

offers a great deal of charm and character, set back from the

road behind ornate gates, approximately 0.5 miles to Witham

mainline railway station. Packed with period features, this

convenient townhouse has an impressive entrance hall that

retains the original tiling. The white wooden kitchen has a

Rayburn cooker and butler’s sink. Adjacent to the kitchen is

the family room, with French doors leading out to the rear

garden.

Upstairs there are four double bedrooms and the master

and guest bedroom have en suite shower rooms. The family

bathroom features a Thomas Crapper high-level cistern WC

and Victorian-style roll-top claw-foot bath. To the front, there

is off-street parking for two vehicles and access to the well-

established rear garden enclosed by red brick walls.

Price £550,000

Selling agent: Fenn Wright 01245 292100

Saffron Walden

MYDDYLTON PLACEFormerly two cottages, this quaint Grade II listed period

townhouse is of timber-frame construction with rendered and

pargetted elevations under a peg-tiled roof. The accommodation

comprises a large dining hall with inglenook fireplace and

oak beam. The kitchen/breakfast room has a vaulted ceiling

with exposed timbers and a door to the courtyard garden. The

sitting room has a central open fireplace. The family bathroom

is located on the ground floor with the master bedroom and

adjacent shower room on the first floor. Stairs lead up again

to the two top floor bedrooms. The rear courtyard garden is a

delightful retreat with walled with raised beds, a brick-built

garden shed and log store. There is parking for two cars.

Price: £550,000

Selling agent: Mullucks Wells: 01799 520520

Chelmsford

MILDMAY ROADLocated in the favoured Old Moulsham city-centre location,

this substantial Victorian detached home was completely

refurbished by the current owner. It now offers five en suite

bedrooms, three large reception rooms, a bespoke kitchen/

breakfast room and custom made conservatory. Packed with

original features this family house has ample parking, a double

garage with electric door and a well-stocked and bespoke-

designed rear garden that includes a Second World War air-

raid shelter.

Price: £985,000

Selling agent: William H Brown 01245 262266

NEW LONDON ROAD

This high-end apartment is situated centrally in Chelmsford

with access to both the city centre and station. Finished in

2006, the property was built to blend in with the surrounding

period properties. The apartment boasts period style features

such as high ceilings and sash windows. A modern, well-

equipped kitchen is complemented by two equally impressive

bathrooms, one en suite, and living room. Outside there is

residents’ parking and communal gardens.

Price £275,000

Selling agent: William H Brown 01245 262266

Colchester

HENRY LAVER COURTAn immaculately presented two-bedroom, ground-floor

apartment in a very central location, ideal for a first-time buyer

or investor. The spacious lounge opens out onto the fully fitted

kitchen with integrated appliances. There are two double

bedrooms, one of which has an en suite, as well as a family

bathroom. Secure, gated underground parking is included and

there is no onward chain.

Price £160,000

Selling agent: William H Brown 01206 577772

Talk of the townLiving in the centre of the action has its advantages. Fiona Brandhorst shows committed townies the door

COMMUTER TIMES• Witham to Liverpool Street,

just over 40 minutes• Whittlesford (Saffron Walden) to Liverpool

Street, fast trains from 60 minutes• Chelmsford to Liverpool Street,

around 36 minutes• Colchester to Liverpool Street,

fast trains in just over 50 minutes

www.inlandhomes.co.uk

The Comptons, Wooburn GreenCharterhouse Mews, Chelmsford Vista, Drayton Garden Village St John’s, Chelmsford

Carter’s Quay, Poole

Showhome open at this development Please check website for current availability. Computer generated illustrations are indicative only and subject to change.

For further details call 01494 762 450 or email [email protected]

Inland Homes are currently regenerating areas acrossthe South providing quality homes with an emphasison design and sustainability. Visit our fabulous rangeof Showhomes to discover more.

DEVELOPMENTS INCLUDE:

Carter’s Quay, Poole1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

Vista, Drayton Garden Village,West Drayton2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

St John’s, Chelmsford2 & 4 bedroom houses

Charterhouse Mews,Chelmsford1& 2 bedroom apartments and 2 bedroom houses

COMING SOON:The Comptons, Wooburn Green1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses

Alexandra Gardens, Iver2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

Park House, LoudwaterStudio & 1 bedroom apartments

Creating newcommunitiesacross the South

26 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM SPEND OR SAVE

Kitchens and bathrooms

are two of the most

important selling

points of a property,

and are also among

the most popular

update and extension

projects. Just how

much value an extra

bathroom will add depends on the number

already in the property, their current

condition and whether they are conveniently

located, but it can be as much as 6%.

Whether you want to add a new bathroom

to maximise value, ease pressure on the

existing facilities in the peak morning rush,

or simply to indulge in a touch of luxury,

it makes sense to ensure the project is cost

effective, says Michael Holmes, spokesperson

for The London Homebuilding & Renovating

Show. Here Michael shares his top tips on

where to spend and where to save...

1. Is it necessary to spend a large amount

of money on plumbing?

Getting the layout right is vital for a well

functioning bathroom and this will usually

mean altering the plumbing unless starting

from scratch, even though this will usually

add to the cost. If you want to fit oversize

showerheads, power showers and mixer taps

successfully, you will require good water

pressure (at least 3 bar) and a plentiful

supply of hot water, so discuss this with your

plumber as you may need to upgrade your

current heating and hot water system.

Solutions include fitting a high-output

combi-boiler providing high-pressure hot

water on demand, a large pressurised

‘unvented’ hot water cylinder, or at least

adding booster pumps to the flow from your

existing hot water cylinder.

VERDICT: SPEND – It will be more

expensive if you have to replace plumbing

due to poor quality fixtures or installation

problems.

2. Is there a difference between top range

bathroom ceramics and discount pieces?

When it comes to ceramic plumbing fixtures,

it’s hard to tell the quality of simple white

sanitaryware simply by looking at it. Most

sinks, lavatories and toilet bowls appear to be

manufactured in the same way and just the

design counts.

Even if you don’t opt for expensive pieces,

if you mix and match your ceramics with

high quality taps and fittings from different

suppliers, you can successfully enhance the

aesthetics of your bathroom.

VERDICT: SAVE – Evaluate the deals that

each supplier provides and then select the

items to suit your budget and taste.

3. Can I conceal the plumbing in my

bathroom?

If you are looking for a clean, uncluttered

look in your bathroom that will maximise

the sense of space, then concealing the

plumbing runs, WC cisterns, and the body of

shower and tap mixers will all help, as will

using wall mounted sanitaryware, frameless

shower screens and large mirrors.

A false wall with a 100mm clear void behind

it in which plumbing can be concealed is

a simple tidy solution, built using either

timber or metal studwork covered in tile

backing board, or plasterboard.

Steel frame modules for wall mounted basins,

WCs and bidets are a worthwhile investment,

reducing costs through ease and speed of

installation. Modules for a WC or basin cost

from £150-£400 when you use ranges from

Geberit Duofix, Grohe Rapid or Screwfix.

VERDICT: SPEND – To ensure the best

possible use out of your space, house

plumbing in a service void behind a false

wall.

4. Is flooring important?

Flooring can be relatively inexpensive with

vinyl and ceramic tiles costing as little as £6

to £8 per square metre. These surfaces can be

installed on a DIY basis providing you take

your time and practice first and ensure the

substrate is well prepared. Ceramic tiling is

a DIY skill you can master, buy ensure you

buy the correct adhesive, grout, tile spacers

and tools, including hiring a good quality

tile cutter.

VERDICT: SAVE – Tiles are a hardwearing

finish and you don’t need to spend a fortune

to get a great look.

5. Are expensive showers worth it?

Shower trays and enclosures, if not installed

correctly, can leak around the seals which

can damage floor finishes and structure and

the ceiling, decoration and furniture in any

rooms below. It’s worth buying quality and

making sure the installation is exactly in

accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

(especially for wet room trays, which can

leak easily if the timber floor structure

around it moves at all).

VERDICT: SPEND – Investing in a high

quality shower tray and enclosure or door

will be beneficial in the long term, as they

will be less susceptible to wear and tear.

6. Mirror, mirror on the wall, does it pay

to invest?

A cleverly sized and positioned mirror is a

great way to make a bathroom appear more

spacious. This inexpensive feature is also a

necessity. The best way to create the illusion

of space is to have mirrors cut to fit wall to

wall and or floor to ceiling.

Some fit a mirror under the vanity unit,

or to the side of a bath too. Mirrors are not

expensive but having them template and

predrilled for mixer taps or light fittings will

add to the cost. Where a bathroom has no

windows, a large mirror and good lighting

will compensate.

VERDICT: SAVE – Mirrors are not an

expensive feature, although having a fitted

mirror templated and predrilled for mixer

taps or light fittings will add to the cost.

7. What’s the fuss about underfloor

heating?

There’s nothing like stepping out of the bath

or shower onto a lovely warm floor, especially

in the winter months when a tiled floor could

be chilly, which is why underfloor heating

is a must-have luxury in a bathroom update

project.

Electric tile warming systems range from

around £25 to £45 per square metre, and

as they are only 3-6mm deep they can be

installed beneath ceramic tiles or engineered

wooden flooring without significantly

increasing the finished floor height. Another

form of heating such as a radiator or

heated radiator towel rail is still likely to be

necessary in a smaller room without much

floor area.

VERDICT: SPEND – An inexpensive luxury

that you can’t afford not to install.

8. Is panelling the be-all and end-all for

your wet room?

Panelling can be cheaper than laying ceramic

tiles on your wall to achieve a watertight

decorative finish. Traditional wainscot

tongue-and-groove boards or Georgian

raised panelling are currently popular as is

v-grooved moisture resistant MDF that looks

like wainscot panelling. Any timber material

must be painted to seal it from moisture if it

is to last in wet conditions.

VERDICT: SAVE – A designer look for less

than the cost of ceramic tiles, and easy for

the DIYer to install.

9. Is stylish brassware worth it?

Poor quality taps wear out incredibly quickly

and inferior metal castings can sheer in no

time requiring replacement of the whole

fitting and the result can be a messy leak

and expensive repairs. It’s worth paying for

quality brassware with ceramic disk valves.

VERDICT: SPEND – Focus your budget on

the things you will use most.

10. Should there be light?

Bright lighting can help a bathroom feel

fresh and hygienic and it needn’t cost much

money to upgrade from the typical single

central pendant light fitting to a multi-

directional spotlight fitting with four or five

bulbs.

Make sure your new light fitting is fitting is

IP-Rated (waterproof) for use in bathrooms.

A dimmer switch fitted outside can allow

you to change the atmosphere from wake-up

bright, to relaxing twilight and is a simple

and inexpensive (£25-30) replacement for a

conventional switch.

VERDICT: SAVE – You can upgrade a single

pendant to a multiple spotlight fitting and

dimmer for well under £100.

Spend or save...ON BATHROOMS

Specification includes: A range of contemporary and traditional kitchens Stoves Richmond 900EI Stainless Steel Range Cooker* Stainless Steel Cooker Hood Integrated Neff appliances Integrated Prima wine cooler Utility rooms (not applicable to plot 3) come with either a washer/dryer

or washing machine and tumble dryer Bathroom and En-Suites have contemporary bathrooms with Ideal

Standard Sanitaryware and are fully tiled with Porcelanosa tiles

Floors are finished with Porcelanosa floor tiles to Kitchen, Utility, Bathroom, En-suite, Cloakrooms and Carpets to all other areas*

Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished door handles Built in wardrobes to most bedrooms – please refer to sales layouts –

with oak panelled doors and pewter finished door handles Air Source Heating, offering reduced running costs, with under floor heating

to all ground floor areas and radiators to upper floor rooms with 5 year service and warranty package.

Eight unique Grade II listed 2, 3 and 4 bedroom barns converted to a high specification, retaining many original features.All properties have private gardens with plots 1, 2 and 8 having the added benefit of a paddock.‘The Barns’ Merton Grange is situated in an idyllic rural location on the edge of Gamlingay in South Cambridgeshire. The approach is via a private drive with far reaching views either side across fields.

Tel : 01923 251799Email: [email protected]

www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk

*Where possible we will be able to offer buyers variations and choices on the internal finishes, although the availability of this will depend upon the stage of construction that each property has reached when a reservation is made. For full specification details please see the brochure.

ShowhomEopEn

wEEkEndS onlyfrom

march 7th-29th between

11am-3pm

prices from £610,000

The current WhatHouse? Housebuilder of

the Year, City & Country Group, is set to

launch a new development in Colchester,

Angel’s Courtyard, based on a collection

of historic buildings in the heart of the

town.

The developer specialises in the

high-quality conversion of period (often

listed) buildings into high-quality new

homes, retaining their heritage and character while re-

purposing them as desirable residential developments.

Angel’s Courtyard comprises a selection of one-, two-

and three-bedroom apartments which are located just off

the High Street and concentrated around a landscaped

courtyard. Most of the homes offer a balcony or terrace

overlooking this tranquil open space, which also features a

bespoke sculpture and water feature.

The development is taking shape within a collection of

seven historic buildings, some of them Grade II listed. City

& Country is restoring and redeveloping the site in addition

to the former council offices located behind the High Street.

Two commercial spaces on the site are already being leased

to The Royal British Legion and Bill’s restaurant.

These new homes will boast a luxurious interior

specification including Hacker kitchens, integrated Neff

and Smeg appliances and stone worktops. Bathrooms are

fitted with Laufen sanitaryware, Crosswater brassware

and porcelain tiles. In keeping with modern expectations,

the homes are based around open-plan living, kitchen and

dining areas, which feature whitewashed oak-style flooring

and 100% wool carpets, making them excellent entertaining

spaces.

“With their town centre location and stylish interior

specifications, we expect these properties will appeal to

young professionals and downsizers,” says Suzanne Aplin,

sales and marketing director at City & Country. “The

tranquil central courtyard has been attractively landscaped

providing residents with a delightful, private outside space,

yet it is moments from the shops, restaurants and indeed the

train station.”

The properties at Angel’s Courtyard are expected to cost

from £150,000 to 500,000. The sales suite at the site will

open in September 2015, but you can already register your

interest in being one of the first to view this unique scheme.

Find out more at www.cityandcountry.co.uk;

01279 817882

28 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

Angel delightHigh-quality conversion properties are just about to hit the market in central Colchester

Now on Sale:an exciting range of 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homesin Brierley Hill. Choose from 10 different designs!

Artisan’s Walk is a whole new community, perfectly placed almostequidistant from Wolverhampton and Birmingham, just off BrettellLane, with views towards the Clent Hills.

Beautifully built to an exacting specification using energy savingtechnology, all the homes at Artisan’s Walk will be economic to run.The careful design and well thought out interiors will make thempractical and comfortable to live in too.

Ask about our launch incentives

Showhome open daily 10.00am - 5.30pmArtisan’s Walk, off Delph Road, Brierley Hill, DY5 2RPCall: 0845 873 2887 or visit: www.lioncourthomes.co.uk

Help to Buy

2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homesfrom £155,000

Located proudly on Military

Road, this property is one of a

row of Victorian houses built

in the 1860s for the Ministry of

Defence for serving Garrison

Offi cers, and it overlooked

Colchester’s tented garrison, stretching

unbroken down to the River Colne.

Originally built for the Colonel, the property

was built as an "upstairs/downstairs" house

with the servants quarters to the right hand

side of the house with a separate entrance

where a back staircase ran up to the

quarters and down to the cellar.

The house was initially without deeds,

as these were not required for government-

owned properties at the time. Enjoying

accommodation across several levels, this

expertly renovated six-bedroom home has an

impressive 4,600 sq feet of fl oor space. The

basement alone has nine rooms including a

butler's room and the original slate bin wine

cellar, still in use, viewed through a window

from the butler's room. The old servants'

bells are still there although no longer

working, positioned outside the butler's

room, for his attention. One of the bells was

connected to the stair post at the bottom of

the stairs. There was a revolving wooden top

to this stair post, which, when turned rang

the "sherry bell" outside the butler's room. It

indicated to the butler that the Colonel had

descended the stairs and was ready for his

glass of sherry.

Many original features still exist in

this splendid period home with stunning

fi replaces, some original working window

shutters and wide plank wooden fl oors to

many rooms. The bedrooms are arranged

over the fi rst and second fl oors and a shower

room is located in the tower room at the very

top of the house.

A garage is to the rear, originally the

coach house, and attached to it, accessed

by a heavy

wooden door, was the tack room

with its wooden pegs still lining the wall.

The present kitchen was the original stable.

Beneath the courtyard is a cistern, still in

original condition except for the pump,

which is long gone. The enclosed rear

garden is mainly laid to lawn with raised

fl owerbeds. To the front of the house there is

ample off-road parking and a car port with

roller door.

The property is on the market for £700,000

with William H Brown: 01279 755400.

HERITAGE HOMES WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 29

Standing to attentionA former Colonel’s home retains the grandeur of yesteryear,

discovers Fiona Brandhorst

by a heavy

WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM |

Right up your street?Properties situated on “Lanes” are worth

over £100,000 more than those on a ‘Street’

according to new research by Barclays

Mortgages. The data, generated by findings

provided by property specialists Hometrack,

shows that the first line of your address

really can say something about the value of

your home.

Homes on “Lanes” come in with a

resounding victory at an average property

value of £245,906 (22% higher than the

national average), homes on “Streets”

come towards the bottom of the list, with

properties averaging £142,374 (29% under

the national average – and a whole 42% lower

than “Lanes”) across the UK.

Just behind “Lanes” are the “Ways” and

“Roads”, with average values of £218,742

and £212,717, followed by “Closes” and

“Avenues” at £204,964 and £192,344.

Regionally, the biggest divide between

street name prices occurs in the South East

where properties on “Lanes” are an average

of £137,145 more expensive than those on

“Streets”. In the East of England, which also

includes parts of Essex, “Ways” are the most

expensive at £309,415 followed by “Drives” at

£246,517. Which just goes to prove that the

only “way” really is Essex!

Go east and commuteLondoners spend over a year of their lives

on the Tube, suggests a new survey from

OnePoll and The WatchHut, which also

reveals that commuters from the east of the

capital have the second shortest commute at

27 minutes beaten only by commuters from

the south at 24 minutes. The poll also showed

that 64% of Londoners use the Tube to get to

work; over a lifetime, Londoners will spend

a whopping 417 days travelling to and from

work. Other data from the Greater London

Authority shows that Liverpool Street and

Stratford were the 6th and 7th busiest

tube stations in 2014 with 73.6million and

59.3million passengers, up 14% and 49%

respectively. However, the quietest station

was positively peaceful Roding Valley in

Zone 4 on the Central Line which had only

260,000 people pass through it during 2014.

And breathe.

Happy in HaveringRightmove’s Happy At Home Index for 2015

has placed Havering as the fifth happiest

place to live in the UK. Nearly 25,000 people

were asked to rank 12 distinct factors about

where they live including safety, contentment

and décor with Havering voted in as the

fifth happiest London borough out of 33.

People were also asked to rate the following

statement: “Generally, the people who live in

my area are friendly and polite”. Havering

came in third place in London behind the

City of London and Richmond upon Thames.

SECRET ESSEX

SECRET ESSEX WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 29 HERITAGE HOME WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 33

True to a rock-star lifestyle, this historic

property, owned since the 1980s by

Steve Harris, the bassist of Iron Maiden,

offers a fantastic variety of facilities

for entertaining on a grand scale –

including its own pub!

As well as a bespoke indoor heated

swimming pool with unique hand-

painted tiles and wall murals, there’s

a split-level galleried recording studio, cinema room

and private and fully equipped pub, The Horse and Cart,

complete with ale on tap! In the grounds you’ll find a flood-

lit tennis court and football pitch.

Sheering Hall is an eight-bedroom medieval country house

of around 11,000 sq ft full of character and period features.

It’s Grade II listed: there has been a house on the site since

the Domesday Book and parts of the house date back to

1427.

Surrounding the entrance hall with its exposed beams

and open fireplace are the three main reception rooms. The

sitting room and drawing room both have fine detail and

character with floor-to-ceiling, oak-panelled walls and high

ceilings with ornate cornicing. The drawing room boasts

a grand wooden carved fireplace with wood burner. The

kitchen benefits from a four-oven Aga and raised breakfast

area, and from the kitchen there is access to the playroom,

boot room and utility area.

From the entrance hall, the main wood-panelled staircase

leads up to the first floor to the principal bedroom, dressing

room and en suite bathroom. There are seven further

bedrooms, a family bathroom and three shower rooms as

well as staff accommodation. Additionally there is a separate

three-bedroom coach house,

extensive garaging and workshop.

Sheering Hall is in a highly

sought-after area and occupies

a secluded and rural position,

approximately 35 miles from

London and 11.6 miles from

Stansted Airport. Nearby

Sawbridgeworth station has

direct trains to London Liverpool

Street taking 41 minutes. Bishop’s

Stortford is six miles away,

Hertford 13 miles and Cambridge

39 miles.

The area offers a wide selection

of state and private schools

including St Nicholas School,

Felsted School, Haileybury College,

Bishops Stortford College and

Heath Mount Prep School. There are also a number of good

golf courses within driving distance, including the Royal

Worlington and Hanbury Manor.

Sheering Hall has a guide price of £3.95million through

Hamptons International, www.hamptons.co.uk;

01483 572864

Rock legend Steve Harris of Iron Maiden calls time on his Essex mansion, Sheering Hall

Maiden over38 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

COVER STORY: use this Molly Mutt dog bed duvet to cover an old dog bed or fill it with redundant pillows to make a smart new bed for your pooch, £16.99, www.easyanimal.co.uk

King’sTime is running out to buy a high-quality new Redrow home in Lexden

Since its offi cial launch in

January, sales have been brisk

at Redrow’s King’s Park, a

development of 31 homes in

the village of Lexden, just west

of Colchester. Now, just seven

homes remain for sale – fi ve houses and two

apartments – so opportunities to buy a peach

of a home at the site are now limited.

With prices ranging from £278,995 to

£674,995, there’s plenty of variety, however,

which is bound to interest a diverse range of

buyers, says Kerry Jenkins, sales director

for Redrow Homes (Eastern).

“King’s Park continues to attract a good

mix of purchasers ranging from fi rst-time

buyers to growing families, downsizers and

everything in between,” she says. “They

all recognise that the development offers a

winning combination of high-specifi cation

homes in a sought-after village location with

good local amenities and strong commuter

links. These factors have helped make King’s

Park a success and now that availability

is limited we’re encouraging would-be

homeowners to contact us without delay.”

With everything from a two-bedroom

apartment to three- and four-bedroom

homes available, there are also two crucial

assistance schemes on offer from Redrow.

The Help to Buy scheme is open to all

buyers on properties under £600,000,

offering the chance to buy with a 5% deposit

thanks to a government-backed equity loan

of 20% of the property price. This means

a lower initial payment and then lower

monthly mortgage payments, as the loan is

interest-free for fi ve years.

For homeowners struggling to sell their

existing property – or simply wanting

to avoid the hassle of selling on the open

market – a part exchange might be the

answer. With this, the housebuilder makes

on offer based on an independent valuation,

which if accepted, eliminates a buying chain

and allows you to stay in your old home

until your new one is ready. Alternatively,

Redrow’s Mastermove option means they’ll

work with local agents to fi nd a buyer for you

– and pay their fees, so you won’t have to.

“Whether you’re an aspiring fi rst time

buyer or a homeowner looking to move up

the property ladder we can help make your

dream move a reality,” adds Jenkins.

The show homes and sales offi ce at King’s

Park are open from 10.00am to 5.30pm,

Thursday to Monday.

Find out more at http://whathou.se/NoUIhJ

01206 430241

peach

30 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

TRUELOVES GRANGE is a bespoke gated

development of fi ve, six and seven bedroom

detached family homes in an idyllic setting

overlooking beautiful open countryside.

Each home is built to CALA’s high quality

design and specifi cations with between

3,217 and 4,970 square feet of living space.

Prices start from £1,695,000. Ingatestone,

on the edge of Fryerning, is a charming

village surrounded by open countryside.

Its thriving centre offers all the essential

shops, pubs and cafés and is neatly located

between Brentwood and Chelmsford, so it’s is

easy to swap rural charm for cosmopolitan

glamour. Trueloves Grange sales offi ce and

showhome is open daily from 10am to 5pm,

call 07823 341611 or visit www.cala.co.uk.

Discover the heart of Trueloves Grange

Wild thingsP

urchasers and residents

at CALA Homes’ exclusive

Trueloves Grange

development will be given a

selection of wildlife habitat

for birds, insects and

hedgehogs to attract wildlife

to their new gardens in support of the

RSPB’s Give Nature a Home campaign.

Each kit includes two bird nest boxes, a

ladybird bug house and a hodgitat hedgehog

shelter, all made from regulated timber.

Michelle Relton, sales manager for CALA

Homes says: “It’s so important to give nature

a helping hand when we can, so we want to

do our bit to help take care of local wildlife

and make it fun at the same time.”

The RSPB campaign urges residents to

provide a place for wildlife in their gardens

and outside spaces. Whether it’s installing

habitats like bug boxes, hedgehog homes

and nest boxes, or planting wildfl owers –

little actions can make a massive difference.

• Give the mower a rest - The fl owering

plants that bugs and beasts love to hide

in will benefi t and longer grass won’t

dry out so quickly

• Grow fl owering plants - Pollinating

insects will be attracted by planting a

variety of traditional plants such as

cornfl owers, foxgloves, honeysuckle,

guelder rose and English lavender

• Build a bug hotel - A wildlife stack –

made from crates, canes, newspaper,

and plant pots provides insects with

somewhere to live

• Create nature corridors - Plant a mix of

trees and fl owers on your doorstep to

create corridors for wildlife to move and

get from place to place

• Add some water - A water feature with

different depths is great for wildlife.

Shallow areas are used by bathing

and drinking birds, dragonfl ies and

amphibians to lay eggs. Deeper areas

help aquatic insects survive cold spells

and are good for newts

RSPB’s top tips for encouraging wildlife

A wildlife haven of bugs, hedgehogs and wild fl owers is being encouraged in Ingatestone

32 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES/MORTGAGES

FARES FAIRLong suffering commuters will get some

comfort from the news that 2016 fare

increases will be pegged at 1%, in line with

the latest RPI infl ation fi gure. However,

Essex commuters can feel doubly smug as

fare rises on one of the country’s fi ve busiest

commuter routes from Shenfi eld to Liverpool

Street are among the lowest. Annual season

tickets will cost an extra £28.68 on this

route beaten only by Dartford to London

Bridge at £23.36.

CHAUFFEUR, SO GOODFancy getting the celebrity treatment from

a local estate agent? If that sounds too good

to be true, test drive the new VIP service

launched by Balgores Property Group which

is aiming to stop buyers missing out on

their dream homes as demand continues

to exceed supply in Essex. By signing up

to the VIP Buyers Club you will get a call

before new properties are advertised widely

and wait for it “chauffeured viewings” are

among the benefi ts.

According to the agent’s own research,

buyers in Chelmsford have seen the largest

drop in the number of properties for sale,

down by 36% year-on-year, followed by

Romford (-32%), Hornchurch (-22%) and

Upminster (-21%).

The agent also says that properties are

selling in Romford in just fi ve days, while

in South Woodham it is taking seven days

and in Hornchurch 11 days, so getting to

the front of the new instructions queue is

the key. Martin Gibbon from Balgores has

further advice: “Unless buyers are in a

good position to purchase a property, they

will not be able to compete with those that

are. In this current market, most vendors

are accepting offers from buyers who

have already sold their home and who are

fi nancially and legally prepared.”

SECRET ESSEX

CHORE POINTIf your house is on the market at the moment

and you’re expecting to keep it tidy while the

schools are still out think again. This year’s

Halifax Annual Pocket Money survey shows that

the number of children expected to work for their

pocket money, by doing household chores, has

reduced in the past 12 months, with just under

three-fi fths (59%) of kids now expected to work

in return for their weekly allowance, a reduction

of six percentage points compared to 2014 (65%).

Bedroom tidying remains the most common task

that children have to do, with 64% of children

who are expected to do chores undertaking

this job. This is followed by washing up (35%),

cleaning (35%) and vacuuming (30%). However,

with the average amount of pocket money paid at

£6.20 a week it could be cheaper than a cleaner!

New research from a building

society has found that demand

for high loan-to-value mortgages

remains strong with the average

homebuyer in the last year having a

deposit of 29%. The survey from the

Nottingham Building Society has revealed

that almost half of people who bought a

property in the last 12 months or plan to

do so soon had a deposit of less than 20%.

Research from the Nottingham has found

that thousands of homebuyers still need a

high loan-to-value mortgage when it comes

to buying a property. The average deposit

last year was 29% although 48% had a

deposit of less than 20% and just over a

quarter (27%) of buyers completing had

a deposit of less than 10% of their house

price.

Demand for low-deposit mortgages

therefore remains strong, and the choice of

90% and 95% loan-to-value mortgage deals

has increased from 325 in November 11 to

around 605 now.

Ian Gibbons, Nottingham Mortgage

Services senior mortgage broking

manager, says: “Homebuyers are

demonstrating their commitment for a

deposit as highlighted by the average 29%

they are able to put down.

“Many will be using the equity they

have built up in their home but it is also

clear that people saving for deposits

are succeeding in the market as well

with nearly half of those putting down

20% or less. Securing a deposit is of

course only the fi rst step as buyers then

need mortgages and prices can vary

considerably depending on the LTV

which is why searching the market is so

important.”

The study also found that cash buyers are

still a force in the market – around one in

eight people (12%) who have bought in the

past year or plan to buy in the next two

years say they do not need to borrow.

The research from the Nottingham also

found that, of the borrowers who have

taken out a mortgage in the last three

years, mortgage brokers were the most

popular way of securing a home loan.

Over the past year more customers are

turning to intermediaries, with half of

25- to 34-year-olds using brokers to source

their mortgage, a fi gure that drops to 40%

of those aged 35 to 44, 28% who are 45 to

54 and 33% aged 55 to 64.

Gibbons adds: “There is undoubted

growing use of brokers. Seeking an

independent view on the best deal

available to a customer is

a very sensible

approach.”

Gibbons adds: “There is undoubted

growing use of brokers. Seeking an

independent view on the best deal

available to a customer is

a very sensible

approach.”

Almost half of homebuyers have less than 20% depositIn fact, more than a quarter actually bought with a down payment of under 10%, discovers Nick Parkhouse

INTERIORS WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 33

Oh, sit down!D&D’s essential guide to some of today’s most stylish chair designsDiscover&Deliver (www.discoverdeliver.com )

is a luxury lifestyle boutique dedicated to

fi nding and researching the most beautiful,

interesting and sought-after furniture,

lighting & accessories, as seen in global

design destinations.

Founders Isabel Rutland and Stephanie

Mähl began by reviewing the best-designed

hotels and restaurants around the world,

many by prize-winning architects and

leading interior designers.

They call it their “voyage of pure

discovery”, uncovering furniture, lighting

and design-objects by the most skilled of

craftsmen.

Here, Isabel and Stephanie pick fi ve sleek

chairs whose designers have revolutionised

the world of product design. “These pieces

are one of the things that makes mankind

magnifi cent!” they say...

Diz Chair designed by Sérgio Rodrigues made by LinBrasil, as seen in Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro. Prices start from £2,383.

Acapulco Chair designed by OK Design, as seen in the W Barcelona. Prices start from £315.

Lehnstuhl designed by Nigel Coates, made by GTV. Prices start from £1,371.

Flag Halyard Chair designed by Hans J Wegner, made by PP Møbler, as seen in Hotel Fasano São Paulo. Prices start from £5,542.

All prices exclude VAT and delivery from Discover&Deliver.

EJ5 Corona Chair designed by Poul M Volther, made by Erik Jørgensen. Prices start from £2,703.

INTERIORS WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 33

You spin me roundFood preparation has never been so much fun – or so fast – thanks to the latest mixers and blenders. Richenda Oldham gets a slice of the action

Sleek and glossy is the best way to describe the Bugatti Vela Food blender. It features a four-speed control and pulse function that is perfect for blending anything from soups and shakes to cocktails and smoothies, £170, www.redcandy.co.uk

The kMix from Kenwood makes baking a piece of cake with its 4.6 litre bowl and special fold function. It even stops automatically when the head is lifted, £399.99, www.amara.com

If you want a professional high performance machine then take

a look at the Herakles 8G-R. This powerful stand mixer will crush

anything from fruit ‘n’ veg to ice fast at the touch of a button,

£184.06, www.klarstein.com

The Russell Hobbs 14012 ‘Essentials’ is a simple to use lightweight jug blender with a useful pulse function to help you break down big chunks of food, £19.99, www.argos.co.uk

For a nostalgic look that is backed up by 21st-century precision, then the BLF01PBEU is a Fifties-style retro model, shown here in pastel blue, which has four speeds and three preset programmes,£146.37, www.smeg.com

On the doorstep of the local beauty spot Langdon

Hills Country Park, with its panoramic views over

the Thames Estuary and across to London, more

than half of the homes at Arcadia are already sold,

with new releases just announced.

Families, retirees and young professionals are

being wooed by the select range of just 98 three-,

four- and five-bedroom character homes with

landscaped gardens and plenty of parking.

Laindon station, with trains to Fenchurch Street every 15 minutes,

is a major plus for commuters and retail therapy is on hand at

Basildon’s popular Eastgate Shopping Centre, just a 10-minute drive

away. Southend-on-Sea is only a short drive away and golf clubs

and a range of sporting amenities are also close by, so keeping fit is

definitely an option for new residents.

The latest release at Arcadia is ‘The Willerby’, a five-bedroom

double-fronted detached home reminiscent of a prime London villa,

set across three floors. Spacious living accommodation on the ground

floor includes a stylish contemporary kitchen

with a convenient separate utility room,

lounge with French doors leading to the

rear garden, study and dining room off the

kitchen.

The first floor has three double bedrooms,

including the master bedroom with its ‘must-

have’ dressing area with built-in wardrobes

and en suite. Two further double bedrooms

and a family bathroom are found on the

top floor with far reaching views from the

picturesque attic-style windows.

Priced at £499,995, ‘The Willerby’ comes

with a sought-after double garage plus an

impressive six parking spaces – ideal for

families with teenage drivers and ample

room for when friends and family visit.

‘The Osterley’, a three-bedroom detached

house priced at £307,995 will be available

soon closely followed by two three-bedroom

semi-detached homes, ‘The Studland’ and

‘The Chastleton’ townhouse.

Specifications for all homes at Arcadia are

high with a choice of kitchen units, worktops

and tiling for those buyers reserving early

in the construction stages. Arcadia is open

daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm,

Find out more at www.bloorhomes.com01268 857834

Buyers are giving the thumbs up to Arcadia the new Bloor Homes development in Laindon on the outskirts of Basildon

Work, rest and play

28 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

Electrolux Group: Industry Leaders in Household Durables for eight consecutive years.

Electrolux has retained its position as Industry Leader in the Household Durables category for the eighth consecutive year in the latest Dow Jones Sustainability Indices.

Electrolux is the only company in the Household Durables category to qualify for Dow Jones Sustainability Indices World, and has been included in DJSI every year since the index was launched in 1999.

For more information, go to www.sustainability-indices.com

Sustainability is an integral part of the Electrolux Group’s strategy, and we are therefore especially proud to have achieved the highest score of the Household Durables category for our efforts in the environmental area.

Henrik SundströmHead of Sustainability Affairs at Electrolux.

‘‘

‘‘

38 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

COVER STORY: use this Molly Mutt dog bed duvet to cover an old dog bed or fill it with redundant pillows to make a smart new bed for your pooch, £16.99, www.easyanimal.co.uk

King’sTime is running out to buy a high-quality new Redrow home in Lexden

Since its offi cial launch in

January, sales have been brisk

at Redrow’s King’s Park, a

development of 31 homes in

the village of Lexden, just west

of Colchester. Now, just seven

homes remain for sale – fi ve houses and two

apartments – so opportunities to buy a peach

of a home at the site are now limited.

With prices ranging from £278,995 to

£674,995, there’s plenty of variety, however,

which is bound to interest a diverse range of

buyers, says Kerry Jenkins, sales director

for Redrow Homes (Eastern).

“King’s Park continues to attract a good

mix of purchasers ranging from fi rst-time

buyers to growing families, downsizers and

everything in between,” she says. “They

all recognise that the development offers a

winning combination of high-specifi cation

homes in a sought-after village location with

good local amenities and strong commuter

links. These factors have helped make King’s

Park a success and now that availability

is limited we’re encouraging would-be

homeowners to contact us without delay.”

With everything from a two-bedroom

apartment to three- and four-bedroom

homes available, there are also two crucial

assistance schemes on offer from Redrow.

The Help to Buy scheme is open to all

buyers on properties under £600,000,

offering the chance to buy with a 5% deposit

thanks to a government-backed equity loan

of 20% of the property price. This means

a lower initial payment and then lower

monthly mortgage payments, as the loan is

interest-free for fi ve years.

For homeowners struggling to sell their

existing property – or simply wanting

to avoid the hassle of selling on the open

market – a part exchange might be the

answer. With this, the housebuilder makes

on offer based on an independent valuation,

which if accepted, eliminates a buying chain

and allows you to stay in your old home

until your new one is ready. Alternatively,

Redrow’s Mastermove option means they’ll

work with local agents to fi nd a buyer for you

– and pay their fees, so you won’t have to.

“Whether you’re an aspiring fi rst time

buyer or a homeowner looking to move up

the property ladder we can help make your

dream move a reality,” adds Jenkins.

The show homes and sales offi ce at King’s

Park are open from 10.00am to 5.30pm,

Thursday to Monday.

Find out more at http://whathou.se/NoUIhJ

01206 430241

peach

your property, our business

01252 356000

Why choose ELM Group?• Higher sales & rental values achieved with our outstanding

property management service

• We advise & assist with RTM & self-enfranchisement setup for our clients

• We offer bespoke leasehold property management to our clients

• Advisory head-lease setup service for developers

• ELM Group are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Homes & Communities Agency

• Two months FREE property management fees on a minimum fixed one year contract

We are proud to present our partner for sales & lettings in the South East of England www.martinco.com

[email protected]

Ethical  Leasehold  Management  –    leading  the  way  in    leasehold  property  management     Ethical Leasehold Management – leading the way in leasehold property management

Barringtons Exclusively Yours

Brentwood O� ce Maldon O� ce01277 600 400 01621 280 High Street, Ingatestone � e Toll House, Maldon

Email [email protected] www.barringtonsproperty.co.ukExclusively Yours

Barringtons step up the pace…Brentwood’s letting agents have proved that after only 3 years of trading, business levels have exceeded all expectations and there is a genuine demand in the market place for a bespoke service. Both Landlords and tenants alike have reacted positively to dealing with the respective directors who collectively share over 35 years of experience in renting property on a one to one basis.

With the demand from prospective tenants for new homes now rapidly surpassing the supply of new instructions, Barringtons are urgently seeking properties to rent in the Brentwood, Shen� eld , Billericay, Hutton, Ingatestone and surrounding villages.

O� ering competitive fees for both let only and full management, Barringtons o� er a free market appraisal of your rental property without obligation and in addition until the end of August, are o� ering free annual Landlord’s rent insurance and legal protection (subject to terms and conditions)

So Landlord’s, why not let us tailor a bespoke service based on your individual needs 01277 600 400

BarringtonsAlistair Carter

Mark Newman

“Executive homes to rent required”

AS ROCKETING house prices leave many looking to the private rental market, an independent letting agency in Ingatestone strives to ensure the right tenant fits the right home. In the 41 years Alistair Carter and Mark Newman of Barringtons have shared in the rental property market, the pair have built a wealth of local knowledge, leaving them well-placed to provide expert advice for both the potential landlord and prospective tenant.

The pair, who look after over 150 properties in Brentwood and Ingatestone, offer a bespoke and seamless rental management service

from their office in the increasingly desirable village, thanks to its close links to London. Through each stage, starting with the property valuation through to drawing up tenancy agreements and providing a maintenance service through their own trusted list of decorators, plumbers and electricians, landlords will have the benefit of dealing with either director one-to-one.

By holding all records of rental payments and outgoings, the annual tax return becomes simple and stress free. And the pair are keen to highlight the importance and benefits of their skills as third party mediators between tenant and landlord, removing some of

the difficulties and confrontations that might otherwise arise.

Mark, who has been in the business for 18 years, said: “What makes us different from other firms is you will be dealing with the same person throughout the whole process, from the valuation to the end of the Tenancy.“In other firms the individual you see at the start could very well be a different person that looks after the management and the collection of the rent. “We make it more personal and are on hand 24-hours a day.”The agency, which offers property for rent across Brentwood, Chelmsford, Ingatestone and Billericay, describes itself as “exclusively yours” and places

much of its emphasis on finding the right tenant. All properties can be found listed on website Rightmove.

Alistair, who has been in the business for 21 years, said: “We are personal and we care. “We are passionate about what we do. “At the end of the day, we would not put someone in your home that we wouldn’t have in ours! “We realise and understand we are dealing with people’s most valuable commodities and it’s important they are looked after. “That means you have got to have someone looking after it you can trust. “We know we are doing a great job because for many of our clients, we are on first name terms with and don’t hesitate to recommend us.”

Barringtons Exclusively Yours

Brentwood O� ce Maldon O� ce01277 600 400 01621 280 High Street, Ingatestone � e Toll House, Maldon

Email [email protected] www.barringtonsproperty.co.ukExclusively Yours

Barringtons step up the pace…Brentwood’s letting agents have proved that after only 3 years of trading, business levels have exceeded all expectations and there is a genuine demand in the market place for a bespoke service. Both Landlords and tenants alike have reacted positively to dealing with the respective directors who collectively share over 35 years of experience in renting property on a one to one basis.

With the demand from prospective tenants for new homes now rapidly surpassing the supply of new instructions, Barringtons are urgently seeking properties to rent in the Brentwood, Shen� eld , Billericay, Hutton, Ingatestone and surrounding villages.

O� ering competitive fees for both let only and full management, Barringtons o� er a free market appraisal of your rental property without obligation and in addition until the end of August, are o� ering free annual Landlord’s rent insurance and legal protection (subject to terms and conditions)

So Landlord’s, why not let us tailor a bespoke service based on your individual needs 01277 600 400

BarringtonsAlistair Carter

Mark Newman

vxc vxvxc vxc vxvxc Popteripte capes omactalarior ut aude cone cen vitium Romnihi liemnius licaeliam taEt orumus resili te videstus. Vivivivem inat, quo

Hutton Mount Shenfield - £3250 pcmA beautifully presented 4 bedroom house set on a gated plot within close proximity of Shenfield High Street and mainline station.

??????????????? - £925 pcm2 bedroom mid terraced picturesque cottage on a private road with a short distance of the mainline station.

????????????? - £575 pcmA refurbished studio apartment situated within easy reach of Brentwood main line station.

LETBYLETBY

LETBYLETBY

PRESTIGE HOME WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 35

For those looking to escape the

hustle and bustle of London,

Weston Homes is assisting

with the re-sale of ‘Woodlands’,

a unique retreat in Chigwell

Row, Essex.

Located in a private road, this

contemporary, architect-designed, five-

bedroom house, presented to an immaculate

standard of specification and interior finish,

is positioned behind a high automatic gate

and set in terraced landscaped gardens, with

a private woodland walk leading directly to

a 336-acre country park. What’s more, the

property was bespoke designed three years

ago for the chairman of Weston Homes, Bob

Weston.

As one of the UK’s leading property

developers, the Essex-based housebuilder

is used to building, marketing and selling

some of the country’s finest homes.

Reflecting on Weston Homes and the new

homes that they offer, after the multi-

award winning company was crowned

Housebuilder of the Year at the WhatHouse?

Awards in 2010, the WhatHouse? Awards

judges acknowledged that Weston

Homes “builds and designs very well”;

demonstrating “boldness and initiative”.

They even went as far as describing Weston

Homes as “salt of the earth with a sprinkling

of stardust”.

But ‘Woodlands’, which backs onto

Hainault Forest Country Park, is a

particularly special property. The

ecologically friendly L-shaped house

provides 3,900 sq ft of luxurious

accommodation which consists of 3,200 sq ft

of internal living space over lower ground,

ground and first floor and a single-storey

side wing; with folding glass walls opening

onto a 700-sq-ft outside entertaining terrace,

complete with landscaped gardens.

Aside from benefitting from extensive

entertaining space and lifestyle amenities,

including private cinema, gymnasium,

sauna and glass-walled wine display/store,

the property offers parking for five large

vehicles with a detached double garage

with feature glass walls, a large parking

forecourt that can accommodate three cars

and a separate bicycle store/tool shed.

The terrace serves as a spacious outside

room with an entertaining and dining area

bordered by a custom-designed outside

brick-built barbeque kitchen with cooking

appliances, hot and cold water, gas,

electricity, storage and drinks/food bar.

Built to the property industry’s Code

Level 5 for sustainable homes, this property

is packed with environmentally friendly

features, including sunlight-/heat-capturing

argon-filled triple glazing; brownwater

recycling; rainwater harvesting; solar

power generation; and ground source heat

recovery.

Jonathan Lewis, sales and marketing

director at Weston Homes, says: “Backing

directly onto the country park, this

architect-designed executive house

was bespoke designed and provides

spectacular entertaining space and family

accommodation. Unique for a property in the

local area, the house combines luxury with

eco-chic credentials and for security reasons

has a discreet and private location behind

existing family housing off Lambourne

Road.

“The local area is known for its celebrity

and City broker residents and this house is

ideal for a high-net-worth or high-profile

individual who wants security and privacy

for their family.”

The asking price for this one-off gem is

£1.6m. Viewing is strictly by appointment

by contacting either Weston Homes on

01279 873 333 (www.weston-homes.com)

or Dream Pad on 01992 661120.

Stars in your eyes?

Join the celeb-studded neighbourhood of Chigwell with this glamorous and unique property

ELEGANCE & ARTISTRY

*Price correct at time of going to press. Computer generated image of Barts Square.

CRAFTED RESIDENCES IN HISTORIC SMITHFIELD, EC1

PRICES FROM £815,000*

020 7726 8995 | BARTSSQUARE.COM

0661 BartsResi_ad_WH_FP_01June_ART.indd 1 27/05/2015 17:55

38 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM SO YOU WANT A HOME...

Essex maybe one of the

prettiest Home Counties

but it’s also one of the most

reasonable to buy a family

home. According to haart

estate agents, average

prices in London are up

16.7% annually to £536,286, driven by 20

prospective buyers chasing each property.

No wonder buyers are fl ocking to Essex!

Here’s what on offer if your budget is a cool

half-a-million.

1 Grace and favourThis turn-of-the-century detached home in

the suburbs of Harlow is perfect for family

buyers looking for space and charm with

its fi ve bedrooms and plethora of original

features, including fi replaces, wooden fl oors

and sash windows. Families love space,

so the two separate receptions rooms will

be well used, as well as an eat-in kitchen

with wood-burning stove and butler sink.

A utility room leads off with a door to the

garden.

The fi rst fl oor has four double bedrooms,

one en suite, and a family bathroom. The

master bedroom is a loft conversion on the

second fl oor and is a wonderful retreat for

parents, with its own dressing room and en

suite. Located on the popular Kingsmoor

Road, there is a spacious garden to the

rear and plenty of off-street parking along

with a carport for two cars. Harlow is well

connected to the city by train in 30 mins.

Guide price £500,000.

Selling agent: haart Harlow 01279 443311

2 Designer dreamTime is precious, so moving to a high-

specifi cation state-of-the-art home means

no DIY and more downtime with family

and friends. This fi ve-bedroom detached

home in a quiet close of executive houses

in Great Totham, near Maldon, has been

extended and modifi ed to appeal to the

families where commuting is on the agenda.

Trains take around 45 minutes to London

Liverpool Street from nearby Witham. A

highly impressive, huge open-plan kitchen/

lounge/dining room with up-to-the-minute,

on-trend bi-folding doors has been created

opening on to the rear garden with two

decked patios. The kitchen offers integral

appliances and an island unit with induction

hob and inset sink. A separate living room

overlooks the front garden. The ground fl oor

features wooden fl ooring and underfl oor

heating. Five bedrooms, with an en suite to

the master, are to the fi rst fl oor, as well as

a family bathroom with free-standing bath.

Good local schools will score highly with

families looking to move to the area.

Priced at £499,950.

Selling agent: Church & Hawes in

Maldon 01621 855195

3 Escape to the countrySet to appeal to the aspiring country living

set, this detached home in Little Clacton has

the wow factor in abundance, with plenty

of space within and the added bonus of a

converted double garage annex space. With

lush green grass, blooming foliage and a

steaming hot tub, it’s the perfect setting for

summer BBQs and lazy weekends.

Set in almost one-third of an acre, the

free-fl owing accommodation oozes charm

with its muted colour palette and shabby

chic ambience. The double-aspect lounge

opens on to the dining room which links

through to the kitchen. A study to the front

of the property and conservatory to the

rear of the property give privacy when it’s

needed.

On the fi rst fl oor there are four spacious

bedrooms, with the master enjoying its own

full bathroom, and a separate family shower

room. The garden is mainly laid to lawn and

enclosed with panel fencing. A canopied area

houses a Jacuzzi which is to remain for the

new owner. With some of the county’s fi nest

beaches (Frinton-on-Sea, Walton-on-the-Naze

and Clacton-on-Sea) within in a short drive

and Thorpe-Le-Soken’s main line station

nearby, this home offers a sought-after

lifestyle change.

Offers in excess of £500,000.

Selling agent: haart Little Clacton

01255 222666

COVER STORY: use this Molly Mutt dog bed duvet to cover an old dog bed or fill it with redundant pillows to make a smart new bed for your pooch, £16.99, www.easyanimal.co.uk

So you want a home...that costs around £500,000

3...average prices in London are up 16.7% annually,

driven by 20 prospective buyers chasing each property. No wonder buyers are fl ocking to Essex!

Fiona Brandhorst fi nds out what’s on the market to make your wish come true

1 2

RETIREMENT WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 35

What kind of properties can buyers expect from Churchill

Retirement and who is eligible to buy one?

We pride ourselves on building beautiful, quality, purpose-

built one- and two-bedroom retirement apartments in

desirable locations across the UK for people aged 60 and

over, who are looking for an independent lifestyle.

What's the advantage of a Churchill home over an

ordinary new-build?

Our developments are specifically designed to meet the

needs of active, independent retired people. Apartments have

spacious rooms throughout, with a combination of design

and functionality. Our fully fitted, stylish kitchens include

a built-in fridge and freezer, hob and

an oven, all located at an easy-reach

height. All of the properties benefit

from illuminated light switches for

added convenience. Owners also enjoy

ultimate peace of mind from a fitted

camera entry system, offering the

highest level of security, and a 24-

hour emergency call system.

We also offer a range of communal

facilities for owners, such as the

owners’ lounge, which hosts regular

social events, and a guest suite for

when friends and family visit. We

also have wellbeing suites on selected

developments and new to 2015 are

coffee bars and fitness rooms.

A huge difference to an ordinary

new-build is that all our retirement developments benefit

from a lodge manager, who is there to provide support for

owners and run the building on their behalf, acting as a

good neighbour.

What sort of people do your developments attract?

When downsizing into one of our properties, people often

want to stay in the area they’ve lived for many years.

However, we also see people moving areas, perhaps to

be closer to their families or to be near the sea in their

retirement years. Location is really crucial in our business

to ensure we’re providing customers with everything they

need, right on their doorstep. We won’t build developments

more than a reasonable level walk from a town centre with a

good range of facilities and services.

It's often a long process for someone to leave a cherished

family home later in life - what do you find are the main

concerns of older buyers?

Leaving a family home is never an easy decision but for

many of our buyers, removing the hassle and stress involved

with maintaining a larger, older property is a huge relief.

I often hear owners say they wished they’d made the move

years ago and how moving to a Churchill development has

given them a whole new lease of life.

The idea of selling a home and going through the buying

process again is the main concern for many older buyers,

but we offer a number of packages to help make it a stress-

free move and our highly trained consultants are on hand to

guide them through every step of the process.

Are there ways in which you can help buyers sell an

existing home and make the move smoothly?

Our ‘Selling Made Easy’ service takes away the stresses

and strains associated with selling a property. We deal with

estate agents on the purchasers’ behalf to help ensure that

the property is being well marketed and viewings are being

arranged to secure a sale as quickly as possible, at a good

market price. We also offer significant sums toward estate

agents’ fees and panel solicitors’ fees. In addition we can help

pay for standard home removals, including packing and

unwrapping.

Alternatively, our Home Exchange service provides

a simple and effective alternative to selling on the open

market. It means homeowners can move into their new

property far faster, and takes away the hassle of selling an

existing property.

What do you think the appeal of Essex is, as a place

to live, and particularly the locations you're currently

selling in?

Essex has always been a popular place to seek that more

relaxing way of life. It offers a rich tapestry of everything

that makes Britain great – which makes it an excellent place

to live. The county has an abundance of picturesque towns

and villages such as Saffron Walden and Waltham Abbey, all

with their own individual history and character. The coast is

terrific, with something for everyone and there are a whole

host of places to visit and things to do, from spectacular old

houses and gardens such as Audley End, to country parks

and nature reserves. The larger towns such as Chelmsford

also offer fantastic amenities with great shopping and

leisure facilities on your doorstep.

Quality of life is especially important later in life - what

does a Churchill development offer in this respect?

A great deal of thought, research and planning goes into

selecting the location of every development. We ensure our

retirement properties are built in central locations within

easy access of public transport links, shops, local facilities

and essential services, all reducing the need to travel by car.

Alongside this, other benefits include companionship

and a community which reduces isolation, loneliness and

depression. Our apartments help to maintain an independent

lifestyle and heath and general wellbeing. The safety and

security features we have as standard also reduce anxieties

and worries experienced by many elderly people.

What are your current schemes in Essex and what others

are in the pipeline?

We currently have three selling developments, King Henry

Lodge in Chingford, Saffron Lodge in Saffron Walden and

King Harold Lodge in Waltham Abbey. King Henry Lodge

in Chingford has just one apartment remaining and Saffron

Lodge launched last year and is already over 70% sold, with

a wonderful, lively community now well established there.

We’ve just welcomed our first owners at King Harold

Lodge, which is a new development of 28 apartments in the

lovely market town of Waltham Abbey.

Construction work has also just started on a new

development of 55 one- and two-bedroom apartments on New

London Road in Chelmsford. We’re hoping to release the

first homes for sale here in April 2016.

We have exciting plans to increase our presence in Essex,

with contracts recently exchanged on a development site

200 yards from Hornchurch High Street and further land

purchases to come on the Essex coast. We have a big growth

phase planned in the Eastern region, so watch this space as

Churchill will be increasingly active in the years to come.

Home from home

Whathouse.com speaks exclusively to Greg Hilton, regional managing director (Eastern) of Churchill Retirement Living, to talk about the benefits of a brand new home on a purpose-built development for older buyers

Churchill in Essex

Saffron Lodge, Saffron Walden

Saffron Lodge is a development of 31 one- and two-bedroom apartments situated in the picturesque town of Saffron Walden. The development is over 70% sold with one-bedroom apartments available priced from £255,940. (01799 282 635)

King Harold Lodge, Waltham Abbey

King Harold Lodge is located on Broomstick Hall Road in the popular market town of Waltham Abbey. The development offers 28 purpose-built apartments with one-bedroom apartments available from £244,950 and two-bedroom apartments priced from £348,950. (0800 458 1847)

For more information on either development, visit the show complexes, which are open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm, or find out more at www.churchillretirement.co.uk.

RETIREMENT WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 35

What kind of properties can buyers expect from Churchill

Retirement and who is eligible to buy one?

We pride ourselves on building beautiful, quality, purpose-

built one- and two-bedroom retirement apartments in

desirable locations across the UK for people aged 60 and

over, who are looking for an independent lifestyle.

What's the advantage of a Churchill home over an

ordinary new-build?

Our developments are specifically designed to meet the

needs of active, independent retired people. Apartments have

spacious rooms throughout, with a combination of design

and functionality. Our fully fitted, stylish kitchens include

a built-in fridge and freezer, hob and

an oven, all located at an easy-reach

height. All of the properties benefit

from illuminated light switches for

added convenience. Owners also enjoy

ultimate peace of mind from a fitted

camera entry system, offering the

highest level of security, and a 24-

hour emergency call system.

We also offer a range of communal

facilities for owners, such as the

owners’ lounge, which hosts regular

social events, and a guest suite for

when friends and family visit. We

also have wellbeing suites on selected

developments and new to 2015 are

coffee bars and fitness rooms.

A huge difference to an ordinary

new-build is that all our retirement developments benefit

from a lodge manager, who is there to provide support for

owners and run the building on their behalf, acting as a

good neighbour.

What sort of people do your developments attract?

When downsizing into one of our properties, people often

want to stay in the area they’ve lived for many years.

However, we also see people moving areas, perhaps to

be closer to their families or to be near the sea in their

retirement years. Location is really crucial in our business

to ensure we’re providing customers with everything they

need, right on their doorstep. We won’t build developments

more than a reasonable level walk from a town centre with a

good range of facilities and services.

It's often a long process for someone to leave a cherished

family home later in life - what do you find are the main

concerns of older buyers?

Leaving a family home is never an easy decision but for

many of our buyers, removing the hassle and stress involved

with maintaining a larger, older property is a huge relief.

I often hear owners say they wished they’d made the move

years ago and how moving to a Churchill development has

given them a whole new lease of life.

The idea of selling a home and going through the buying

process again is the main concern for many older buyers,

but we offer a number of packages to help make it a stress-

free move and our highly trained consultants are on hand to

guide them through every step of the process.

Are there ways in which you can help buyers sell an

existing home and make the move smoothly?

Our ‘Selling Made Easy’ service takes away the stresses

and strains associated with selling a property. We deal with

estate agents on the purchasers’ behalf to help ensure that

the property is being well marketed and viewings are being

arranged to secure a sale as quickly as possible, at a good

market price. We also offer significant sums toward estate

agents’ fees and panel solicitors’ fees. In addition we can help

pay for standard home removals, including packing and

unwrapping.

Alternatively, our Home Exchange service provides

a simple and effective alternative to selling on the open

market. It means homeowners can move into their new

property far faster, and takes away the hassle of selling an

existing property.

What do you think the appeal of Essex is, as a place

to live, and particularly the locations you're currently

selling in?

Essex has always been a popular place to seek that more

relaxing way of life. It offers a rich tapestry of everything

that makes Britain great – which makes it an excellent place

to live. The county has an abundance of picturesque towns

and villages such as Saffron Walden and Waltham Abbey, all

with their own individual history and character. The coast is

terrific, with something for everyone and there are a whole

host of places to visit and things to do, from spectacular old

houses and gardens such as Audley End, to country parks

and nature reserves. The larger towns such as Chelmsford

also offer fantastic amenities with great shopping and

leisure facilities on your doorstep.

Quality of life is especially important later in life - what

does a Churchill development offer in this respect?

A great deal of thought, research and planning goes into

selecting the location of every development. We ensure our

retirement properties are built in central locations within

easy access of public transport links, shops, local facilities

and essential services, all reducing the need to travel by car.

Alongside this, other benefits include companionship

and a community which reduces isolation, loneliness and

depression. Our apartments help to maintain an independent

lifestyle and heath and general wellbeing. The safety and

security features we have as standard also reduce anxieties

and worries experienced by many elderly people.

What are your current schemes in Essex and what others

are in the pipeline?

We currently have three selling developments, King Henry

Lodge in Chingford, Saffron Lodge in Saffron Walden and

King Harold Lodge in Waltham Abbey. King Henry Lodge

in Chingford has just one apartment remaining and Saffron

Lodge launched last year and is already over 70% sold, with

a wonderful, lively community now well established there.

We’ve just welcomed our first owners at King Harold

Lodge, which is a new development of 28 apartments in the

lovely market town of Waltham Abbey.

Construction work has also just started on a new

development of 55 one- and two-bedroom apartments on New

London Road in Chelmsford. We’re hoping to release the

first homes for sale here in April 2016.

We have exciting plans to increase our presence in Essex,

with contracts recently exchanged on a development site

200 yards from Hornchurch High Street and further land

purchases to come on the Essex coast. We have a big growth

phase planned in the Eastern region, so watch this space as

Churchill will be increasingly active in the years to come.

Home from home

Whathouse.com speaks exclusively to Greg Hilton, regional managing director (Eastern) of Churchill Retirement Living, to talk about the benefits of a brand new home on a purpose-built development for older buyers

Churchill in Essex

Saffron Lodge, Saffron Walden

Saffron Lodge is a development of 31 one- and two-bedroom apartments situated in the picturesque town of Saffron Walden. The development is over 70% sold with one-bedroom apartments available priced from £255,940. (01799 282 635)

King Harold Lodge, Waltham Abbey

King Harold Lodge is located on Broomstick Hall Road in the popular market town of Waltham Abbey. The development offers 28 purpose-built apartments with one-bedroom apartments available from £244,950 and two-bedroom apartments priced from £348,950. (0800 458 1847)

For more information on either development, visit the show complexes, which are open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm, or find out more at www.churchillretirement.co.uk.

39

Found a house you love?

We’ll find you the perfect mortgage to match.

Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is a registered company in England & Wales under company number 06334944. Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Home Counties Mortgage Protection and Finance Ltd who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. There may be occasions where we may charge a fee which will depend on your circumstances. In these situations we will inform you at an early stage, the fee typically being no more that 1% of the total loan amount.YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED UPON IT. The actual premium for protection products will depend upon individual circumstances. Please ask us for a specific customer illustration be contacting us by completing our enquiry form or telephone the office directly. *The above mentioned products are not regulated by the FCA and accordingly the protection normally afforded does not apply.

whathouse.com/mortgages

We specialise in all types of mortgages including:

• New Home purchases• First time buyers• Remortgaging• House Moves

• Self employed• Landlords• Buy to Let• Specialised bespoke options

WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM MORTGAGES

If you’re thinking of taking

advantage of record low interest

rates you generally have the

choice of two types of deal: a

fixed rate or a variable rate.

Over recent months the costs

of both types of product have

fallen sharply - but what deals

currently represent the best

value?

Six months ago, if you had

wanted to choose the very

cheapest mortgage rate the chances are

that you would have picked a variable-

rate deal. At that time, variable deals were

0.28% cheaper than fixed rates with the

lowest 60% loan-to-value variable rate being

1.09%, compared to the best fixed-rate deal

at 1.37%.

Now, while the cost of both types of deal

has reached a record low, the difference

in price between the two types of deal has

shrunk and variable deals may not now

offer the lowest rates. In many cases, a fixed

rate product is now cheaper than a variable

alternative, meaning you will not only

benefit from the security of a fixed-rate deal

but also lower repayments.

“A variable-rate tracker mortgage can

no longer be considered the best way

to ensure lower monthly repayments,”

says Charlotte Nelson, finance expert at

Moneyfacts, the analysts who carried out

the research. In addition, with the Bank of

England suggesting that an interest rate

rise is on the way the gap between the cost

of the deals could increase. “Borrowers

on a variable rate will certainly notice a

difference in their monthly repayments

when the inevitable happens and base rate

rises,” she adds.

Calculations from the financial analyst

show that the average borrower chose the

lowest 60% variable-rate product today it

would cost £442 a year more than the lowest

two-year fixed rate if the base rate goes up

by just 0.5%.

As well as offering low repayments,

fixed rates also give you the security that

you know exactly what your mortgage

payments will be for a set period of time.

In previous years you have generally had

to pay a premium for that security but now

you can benefit from not only peace of mind

but also a better deal.

Ms Nelson advises that anyone

considering taking out a new mortgage

deal should move fast. She says: “These

highly competitive fixed-rate mortgages

will only be on the market for so long and

once they’re gone, they’re gone. Mortgage

holders therefore need to act fast to secure

the best deals while they have the chance.”

Are fixed deals the cheapest in the market this summer, or variable? asks Nick Parkhouse

Revealed: the cheapest type of mortgage deal

Found a house you love?

We’ll find you the perfect mortgage to match.

Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is a registered company in England & Wales under company number 06334944. Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Home Counties Mortgage Protection and Finance Ltd who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. There may be occasions where we may charge a fee which will depend on your circumstances. In these situations we will inform you at an early stage, the fee typically being no more that 1% of the total loan amount.YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED UPON IT. The actual premium for protection products will depend upon individual circumstances. Please ask us for a specific customer illustration be contacting us by completing our enquiry form or telephone the office directly. *The above mentioned products are not regulated by the FCA and accordingly the protection normally afforded does not apply.

whathouse.com/mortgages

We specialise in all types of mortgages including:

• New Home purchases• First time buyers• Remortgaging• House Moves

• Self employed• Landlords• Buy to Let• Specialised bespoke options

32 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES/MORTGAGES

FARES FAIRLong suffering commuters will get some

comfort from the news that 2016 fare

increases will be pegged at 1%, in line with

the latest RPI infl ation fi gure. However,

Essex commuters can feel doubly smug as

fare rises on one of the country’s fi ve busiest

commuter routes from Shenfi eld to Liverpool

Street are among the lowest. Annual season

tickets will cost an extra £28.68 on this

route beaten only by Dartford to London

Bridge at £23.36.

CHAUFFEUR, SO GOODFancy getting the celebrity treatment from

a local estate agent? If that sounds too good

to be true, test drive the new VIP service

launched by Balgores Property Group which

is aiming to stop buyers missing out on

their dream homes as demand continues

to exceed supply in Essex. By signing up

to the VIP Buyers Club you will get a call

before new properties are advertised widely

and wait for it “chauffeured viewings” are

among the benefi ts.

According to the agent’s own research,

buyers in Chelmsford have seen the largest

drop in the number of properties for sale,

down by 36% year-on-year, followed by

Romford (-32%), Hornchurch (-22%) and

Upminster (-21%).

The agent also says that properties are

selling in Romford in just fi ve days, while

in South Woodham it is taking seven days

and in Hornchurch 11 days, so getting to

the front of the new instructions queue is

the key. Martin Gibbon from Balgores has

further advice: “Unless buyers are in a

good position to purchase a property, they

will not be able to compete with those that

are. In this current market, most vendors

are accepting offers from buyers who

have already sold their home and who are

fi nancially and legally prepared.”

SECRET ESSEX

CHORE POINTIf your house is on the market at the moment

and you’re expecting to keep it tidy while the

schools are still out think again. This year’s

Halifax Annual Pocket Money survey shows that

the number of children expected to work for their

pocket money, by doing household chores, has

reduced in the past 12 months, with just under

three-fi fths (59%) of kids now expected to work

in return for their weekly allowance, a reduction

of six percentage points compared to 2014 (65%).

Bedroom tidying remains the most common task

that children have to do, with 64% of children

who are expected to do chores undertaking

this job. This is followed by washing up (35%),

cleaning (35%) and vacuuming (30%). However,

with the average amount of pocket money paid at

£6.20 a week it could be cheaper than a cleaner!

New research from a building

society has found that demand

for high loan-to-value mortgages

remains strong with the average

homebuyer in the last year having a

deposit of 29%. The survey from the

Nottingham Building Society has revealed

that almost half of people who bought a

property in the last 12 months or plan to

do so soon had a deposit of less than 20%.

Research from the Nottingham has found

that thousands of homebuyers still need a

high loan-to-value mortgage when it comes

to buying a property. The average deposit

last year was 29% although 48% had a

deposit of less than 20% and just over a

quarter (27%) of buyers completing had

a deposit of less than 10% of their house

price.

Demand for low-deposit mortgages

therefore remains strong, and the choice of

90% and 95% loan-to-value mortgage deals

has increased from 325 in November 11 to

around 605 now.

Ian Gibbons, Nottingham Mortgage

Services senior mortgage broking

manager, says: “Homebuyers are

demonstrating their commitment for a

deposit as highlighted by the average 29%

they are able to put down.

“Many will be using the equity they

have built up in their home but it is also

clear that people saving for deposits

are succeeding in the market as well

with nearly half of those putting down

20% or less. Securing a deposit is of

course only the fi rst step as buyers then

need mortgages and prices can vary

considerably depending on the LTV

which is why searching the market is so

important.”

The study also found that cash buyers are

still a force in the market – around one in

eight people (12%) who have bought in the

past year or plan to buy in the next two

years say they do not need to borrow.

The research from the Nottingham also

found that, of the borrowers who have

taken out a mortgage in the last three

years, mortgage brokers were the most

popular way of securing a home loan.

Over the past year more customers are

turning to intermediaries, with half of

25- to 34-year-olds using brokers to source

their mortgage, a fi gure that drops to 40%

of those aged 35 to 44, 28% who are 45 to

54 and 33% aged 55 to 64.

Gibbons adds: “There is undoubted

growing use of brokers. Seeking an

independent view on the best deal

available to a customer is

a very sensible

approach.”

Gibbons adds: “There is undoubted

growing use of brokers. Seeking an

independent view on the best deal

available to a customer is

a very sensible

approach.”

Almost half of homebuyers have less than 20% depositIn fact, more than a quarter actually bought with a down payment of under 10%, discovers Nick Parkhouse

01237 459 998 | Grenville Wharf, 6a The Quay, Bideford EX39 2HW

morrisandbott.co.uk

Take the first step today and find out how we can make your property a success.

01237 426 712

Unlock your holiday home’s potential

Bideford - North Devon

£735,000

5 | 4 | 3 • Stunning elevated position• 5 Bedrooms / 3 en-suite• 3 Reception rooms• Breathtaking river views

• Long private gated drive• 2.6 Acres• Detached one bed. annexe• EPC E

For full details, or to view more of our portfolio, visit our website

Morris and Bott - HC - What House.indd 1 29/04/2015 15:08

We’re open for business, whatever the climate.

For the last 40 years, through all market conditions, we’ve consistently lent to residential property developers. So if you’re looking for funds, you won’t find a more experienced, flexible and reliable business partner.

To find out how we can help your development, please call Close Brothers Property Finance on 020 7655 3655 or visit closepropertyfinance.com

Close Brothers I Modern Merchant Banking

C54427 CBPF_EG_Blue_297x210.indd 1 23/04/2015 11:38