WhatHouse? West Midlands November 2014

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November 2014

West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire – Find your new home at Whathouse.com

AUCTIONS P4 INTERIORS P13 RETIREMENT P25 MORTGAGES P29 AGENT INSIGHT P30

With prices from £79,950 at Ettingshall Place and £99,950 at Akron Gate, there’s never been a better time to buy a new home in Wolverhampton.

For more information call Ettingshall Place on 08444 901872† or Akron Gate on 08432 082802†

Alternatively, visit us at persimmonhomes.com

ENJOY A NEW HOME THIS CHRISTMAS

†Calls will be charged at five pence per minute from a BT landline and may cost considerably more from mobile and other phones. Contact your service provider for more details. Details correct at time of going to press.

Great escapesSix of the best overseas investment properties, P8-9

– preview P17

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Find your new home at Whathouse.com buying a home overseas 3

Investing in overseas property

Teuco hydrosonic bath, Bagno splashproof TV and Duravit fittings John Lewis Savina from the Continental CollectionTemperature-controlled wine storage in white American oak

o, where would you buy a home overseas if you had the money? I’ve asked myself that question a few times

over the past few weeks as we’ve been putting the paper together and I’ve actually come up with several answers! Which is unfortunate, as, on a humble scribe’s salary, I’ll be lucky to afford one.

In no particular order, I came up with Mallorca, Portugal, St Lucia, Thailand and Italy – but I confess that the latter is mostly because I happen to be sitting beside a sunny, if slightly misty, Lake Como as I write this. Given another week, I’d probably come up with another half-dozen alternatives.

For me, as I think it is for many people, buying a second home overseas, or perhaps even relocating permanently, is a lifestyle choice rather than one motivated by investment and financial returns.

There’s no doubt that with careful research, it’s quite possible to add an overseas property to your investment portfolio that will provide good returns and some decent price appreciation over the years.

Thankfully, the days of “get rich quick” property investment schemes are mostly behind us and I think buyers are much more wary in light of the way some people got caught out at the end of the last property boom, as price tumbled around the world.

The lucky ones got out of the market just before that, selling up the Eastern European or Middle Eastern investments that they never had any intention of living in. Quite a few were left with homes that were probably not even completely built and which had very little chance of being sold at anywhere near the price they were bought for.

For most of us, though, an overseas property would be a place to go on holiday, to let out to family and friends and to potentially hang onto into retirement as a place to spend the winter months with the sun on our backs. Travel is relatively cheap these days and on a busy bank holiday, it might be quicker to fly to the Costa del Sol than sit in a traffic jam to Cornwall or Devon.

Wherever in the world you yearn to buy, I hope our features inspire you to make a serious enquiry to start to make your overseas property dream a reality.

Happy house-hunting!

KeithKeith Osborne, editor. [email protected] @keithosborne69

SWelcome!

1) Are you independent?It is vital that your legal representative is independent and is acting in your best interests rather than for the seller, developer or estate agent. Often, agents or developers will encourage you to use their ‘recommended lawyer’, or even suggest that a lawyer is not required at all. The reason for this is that they want you to use somebody with whom they have a mutually beneficial relationship.

2) Do you understand the different legal systems?A firm that understands both sets of laws will be clued-in regarding the interaction between foreign and UK legal systems, particularly when it comes to tax issues.

3) How much experience do

you have in this type of work?Your lawyer needs to know much more than the law and the theory. It is vital to know what practices and techniques the other party will use, and the customs of the country you are buying in. The firm must also be aware of any common scams that could be prevalent.

4) How well do you know British clients?British clients have high expectations of their lawyers. They expect regular updates, detailed advice and clear explanations regarding costs.

5) Can you speak English?By ‘speaking English’, we don’t just mean speaking the words, but being able to explain complicated information in a clear fashion, as sometimes a literal translation can give an unclear picture.

WHERE DO I START?Overseas property can be found in many of the usual places – property portals, developer websites, specialist shows and estate agents, who will sell through trade bodies such as the Association of International Property Professionals.

Your first port of call is to suss out the type of property you are interested in and to choose an estate agent. Take care when doing this, ensuring you pay particular attention to your agent’s track record and fee structure. Once you have decided that overseas investment is for you, take the time to visit potential properties yourself – it can be risky to make such a significant investment from your living room.

Don’t be sucked in by outrageous

stories of success or failure. In many countries the property market is beginning to find its feet again after a disastrous few years, but be wary of agents promising you huge capital growth or rental yields, and always do your own research.

FINANCESIt is helpful to have finance in place before you search for a property, as things can get tricky if you need a mortgage. Since the recession hit, it has become increasingly difficult to borrow in some countries, and some UK banks will only offer overseas mortgages for countries in which they have an office.

Take your time and search for the best mortgage and currency deals, and

decide which currency to borrow in – if you are letting the property it could be wise to borrow in the local currency to lessen the chance of becoming a victim of exchange rate fluctuations.

Budgeting is vital, as different countries charge different fees. In Italy you might pay 12-15% in fees to cover your mortgage, insurance and tax, while in the USA this figure can be as low as 5%. Deposits are similar – many countries will accept a 10% deposit, but you may need to pay up to a third of the purchase price in countries such as Portugal.

Should you find your ideal home, always consult a lawyer before handing over a deposit. Seek advice over how best to protect your investment – this could include making wills in both

countries to minimise any difficulties upon death.

LETTING YOUR PROPERTYAlways think of the long-term. Research the local rental market and learn about holiday seasons, amenities and popularity. As with the UK, you can use a managing agent to take the hassle away from your investment, or you can use a holiday lettings website to take advantage of seasonal demand.

In theory, you are liable for income tax both abroad and in the UK, but you shouldn’t have to pay twice, and as with self-employed income in the UK, you can factor some forms of expenditure in to your calculations.

Whether you’re in search of a retirement retreat or a solid buy-to-let investment, an overseas property could be the perfect fit. The sunnier climes of Spain, France and Portugal have long been popular with UK buyers, and there is also a wealth of investment opportunities available a little off the beaten track. There are certainly bargains out there, but it pays to be cautious and do your research before diving in. Here are some tips to get you started.

Peter Esders, commercial director at international legal firm Judicare Group, shares his top five questions to ask your prospective legal representative

1) Know what you want Consider your specifications carefully before confirming your trip. There is no point travelling overseas before your have ensured that the properties you have lined up fit your requirements.

2) Know what to expectFamiliarise yourself with the itinerary. Never allow yourself to feel pressured into committing to a property you are not 100% happy with, but do afford the company enough time to adequately show you the range of opportunities available.

3) Make a listIt’s surprising how many people return home after an inspection trip and realise they have forgotten to ask key questions, such as whether the property has a clean title deed or

what an apartment’s condominium fees might be. It is always best to take care of these practical details face to face during the trip.

4) Know the numbersKnow your budget and ensure that the company running the trip knows it too. If you aren’t clear regarding figures, you could miss out on your dream property while looking around one that is outside of your budget.

5) Think it throughA good host will allow you to take time to reflect on your decision, and will be able to furnish you with precise details about the area in which you are purchasing, from historical property price trends and language lessons to the best restaurants for local cuisine.

Chris White, founding director of Ideal Homes Portugal, offers his top tips on getting the most from an overseas property inspection trip

EXPERT ADVICE

B uying and selling property

at auction is becoming increasingly popular as illustrated by the high number of wide-ranging

purchasers cramming into auction rooms up and down the country each week. Previously it was mainly only professional property investors and developers that would have considered buying at auction rather than in a private treaty sale.

While many auctioneers have long accepted proxy and telephone bids from bidders who were unable to attend a

sale in person, there are now a growing number of auctioneers of property who are willing to accept bids online, with many auction houses now broadcasting live video from auction on their websites, enabling buyers to view auctions, bid and purchase property online.

“The market exposure for our auction sales is now immense, with online bidding having become an integral part of our offering alongside the traditional ‘in the room’, telephone and proxy bidding arrangements,” said Guy Charrison, auctioneer and director at Network Auctions.

Although technology and the means to buy property online is rapidly improving, as things stand, you, much like those bidding by telephone, will need to establish your credit with the auctioneer several days before the auction when bidding online. The auctioneer may even require you to send a cheque prior to the auction representing the 10% deposit of the maximum sum that you are willing to bid.

Whether bidding online or by another means, you should always adopt the same approach as if you were physically attending the auction.

• Property inspection: Always view the property you are thinking of buying in person.

• Survey: Appoint a surveyor to inspect the property.

• Legal: Read all the legal documentation and hire a solicitor to review the legal pack.

• Finance: Whether paying in cash or securing a loan, ensure funds are in place.

• Stick to your budget: Set a maximum price and do not exceed it.

There has been an increase in the number of ‘invisible bidders’ placing their bids online, driving up demand for property auction lots, discovers Marc Da Silva

Property auctions – buying a property online

4 auctions Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Buying property at auction is generally a good way of ensuring that you do not pay more than you need to, with purchasers often paying less at auction than through private treaty.

Thankfully, prospective buyers can now bid online offering you a genuine opportunity to potentially

acquire below-market-value property at auction even when you are unable to attend in person, while viewing the action online.

Buying property at auction can be a nail-biting experience. Bidding online, away from prying eyes of other people in the auction room may help to alleviate the pressure, especially for less experienced purchasers.

THE PROS

Establishing your credit with the auction firm and sending the auctioneer a cheque prior to the auction representing the 10% deposit of the maximum sum that you are willing to bid generally has two disadvantages:

First, the auctioneer is aware of the maximum you will

pay and if he is unscrupulous, may take advantage of this knowledge by increasing the reserve.

Second, it prevents you from making any bids higher than ‘the first number you thought of’ at the time you dispatched the cheque. For some reason, perhaps because they disturb the auctioneer’s rhythm of bidding,

online bids generally come over weakly in the room and seem to have less impact on opposing bidders. The audience may believe they are a ploy of the auctioneer to increase the number and level of bids.

If you are concerned that bidding online may be disadvantageous, the best method is to attend the auction in person.

THE CONS

Managing director Daniel HillEditorial director Rupert BatesEditor Keith Osborne [email protected] editor Stephen Maunder [email protected] sub-editor Suzanne Frost Designer Sarah Davies Contributors Marc Da Silva Nick Parkhouse Richenda OldhamSales director (new homes) Mark Edmondson [email protected] director (estate agencies) Andy Grimley [email protected] of Sales (Midlands) Ben Marklew [email protected] of Sales (London) Andy Lunn [email protected] manager Jay Ali [email protected] development manager Richard Woodruff [email protected] development manager Steve Coyle [email protected] manager Ann Chaloner [email protected] executive Tori Collett [email protected] executive Wayne Smith [email protected] photo:

Keith Osborne started writing about property 12 years ago and has been editor of Whathouse.com since 2010. He is currently a columnist in housebuilding trade magazine Show House and

has previously written for Homes Overseas magazine. He has also been a part of the What House? Awards judging panel for a number of years.

Rupert Bates, editorial director of WhatHouse? has been a property journalist for 25 years. He is an award-winning writer who started on local newspapers before becoming a columnist on The Daily

Telegraph. He presents the annual What House? Awards, edits leading housebuilding magazine Show House and is property correspondent of The Field magazine.

Stephen Maunder is assistant editor of Whathouse.com, having previously spent 18 months there as a freelance special correspondent. He has a background in academic research

and has worked at Sky News as a picture researcher. He has also written for BBC News, Huffington Post UK and the Shropshire Star newspaper.

@What_HouseWhat House?

No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publishers. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors and omissions.

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locations you’ll love

The Club at Sunset Lake, Florida USA From £96,950

Florida is one of the world’s favourite holiday destinations and it’s easy to see why. It has a fantastic climate, is blessed with an array of world-renowned natural and manmade attractions and it has great connectivity for holidaymakers all over the world.

The Club at Sunset Lake is a brand-new gated development in the heart of central Florida, situated close to all major amenities. So whether you’re looking for a holiday home or buy-to-let investment, it has a location that will suit you and anyone who might want to rent your property.

The Club boasts luxurious facilities including an exclusive clubhouse and swimming pool, fitness centre and spa, sports courts and cycle paths, and a lakefront park and picnic area, making the most of the

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properties provide plenty of space, the larger properties also boasting garages. The specification makes for an ideal lifestyle property or alternatively, there is the opportunity to get a five-year rental guarantee with a 6% net return for those looking to use the property as a longer-term investment instead.

Two-bedroom properties at The Club at Sunset Lakeare priced from £96,950, with three-bedroom property types priced from £118,700 and the four-bedroom properties start from £137,450.

From: Brookes & Co. Contact: 01621 875925

8 six appeal Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Les Gets, Portes Du Soleil, France From €765,000

The long-awaited Mountain Lake Resort opened its doors in June, as the first Mark Warner-managed alpine resort that allows buyers to purchase a ski property and rent it out through the tour operator.

The properties here are situated on a quiet back-road in the centre of the resort, just 150m from the City Express gondola and a short walk to the town centre and the lake. There is no better location for property in Zell am See due to proximity to the ski lifts, resort centre and the lake.

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This resort will be operated by Mark Warner – the well respected UK tour operator – and owners must rent out their apartments when not using them personally. Resort facilities include a spa area, reception, kids play area, bar and restaurant.

From: Mark Warner Property Contact: 020 7692 0786

Mountain Lake Resort, Zell am See, Austria From £161,000

This collection of four new chalets in Les Gets is sure to be popular with investors. This dual-season Alpine resort is located in the vast ski area of the Portes du Soleil, where you will find over 650 kilometres of interlinked runs spanning both France and Switzerland.

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From: Spot BlueContact: 020 8150 9502

Six appealOur favourite overseas properties on the market right now

Find your new home at Whathouse.com six appeal 9

Parc Lacour, Cannes, France From €385,000

Soneva Fushi Resort, Kunfunadhoo, Maldives From $3,000,000

Lalzit Bay, Durrës, Albania From €35,000

For something a little off the usual horizons, what about investing in a home in a new five-star resort taking shape on the Adriatic Coast of Albania. One of the last European countries to shake off Communism in the early 1990s, Albania is now investing heavily in infrastructure and has been tipped as a top tourism spot by both Lonely Planet and the New York Times.

Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa is an exclusive, gated development of apartments and villas offering sea views along 300 metres of private beachfront and a range of high-quality amenities, such as a beach club, tennis courts, boutique shops and a range of restaurants and bars.

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between properties. With a range of one- and two-bedroom apartments and three- and four- bedroom villas available, there are plenty of options to cater for budgets from €35,000 to €360,000.

The resort has proved popular with intrepid holidaymakers and with investors, many of whom are expatriates who want a foothold back in their country of origin. Albania attracts well over four million tourists every year and the Adriatic climate makes it an idyllic destination for sun worshippers. The country’s mountains, coast and fascinating interior are all within easy reach thanks to a network of new roads and infrastructure.

From: Lalzit BayContact: 0845 125 8600

Only 10 luxurious beachfront private residences will be built at the sunrise and sunset sides of the legendary Soneva Fushi Resort in the Maldives.

Set on the unpopulated, privately owned tropical island of Kunfunadhoo, the resort is reached by a 30-minute seaplane flight from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. Kunfunadhoo is one of the largest islands in the Maldives that has been allocated to tourism, with its stunning white beaches, tropical climate and lush vegetation offering a unique natural experience.

The villas here will be packed with luxurious features, with everything from cinema rooms and studies to staff quarters available, and each property will feature an expansive master bedroom with a private sundeck.

In addition to the stunning pools surrounding the communal areas and a private gym, the resort boasts a world-class Six Senses Spa with a wide choice of quality treatments and a team of gifted international therapists and practitioners.

Investors at Soneva Fushi will benefit from attractive rental yields,

with The Maldives offering a tax-efficient ownership structure devoid of Capital Gains and Acquisition Tax. The Villa Rental Programme here is also flexibly tailored to the lifestyle of the buyer.

With The Republic of Maldives only allowing foreign buyers to purchase private real estate since 2011, now could be the ideal time to take the plunge.

From: International Luxury Real Estate

Contact: 020 7095 8701

There can be few towns in the world that evoke glamour and celebrity more than Cannes in the south of France, homes of the prestigious film festival and a haunt of the rich and famous since the late 19th century.

The exclusive Parc Lacour residence is located in the heart of Cannes, adjacent to the Basse Californie, and only a few minutes’ walk to Rue d’Antibes, Cannes Tennis Club and the coastal promenade at La Croisette.

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a secure video entry system, Siematic fitted kitchens with Miele appliances, luxurious wet rooms and bespoke fitted wardrobe systems. The design ethos for these apartments is to create a “seamless flow” between indoor and outdoor spaces, with glass loggias and timber screens revealing private landscaped exterior spaces including gardens and terraces, including a delightful roof garden for the penthouse. On the sun-soaked roof deck, all residents can enjoy the show-stopping infinity pool and seating areas.

One-, two- and three-bedroom apartments are available from €385,000, €795,000 and €1.195m respectively.

From: London RivieraContact: +33 4 93 46 41 31

Our favourite overseas properties on the market right now

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R7176 What House Ad Oct DPS.indd 1-2 21/10/2014 16:50R7176 What House Ad Oct DPS.indd 1-2 21/10/2014 16:50

12 armchair gardener Find your new home at Whathouse.com

In the frame

Arches, pergolas and gazebos create an instant focal point in a landscape.

Richenda Oldham looks at the different functions of these and other garden structures

1. For all-day sun choose a south-facing aspect when positioning your gazebo, Carmen Softwood Pavilion, £1,299.98, from B&Q, www.diy.com 2. Lychgates are gateways that are traditionally found at the entrance to a churchyard, but they also make excellent garden features, English Heritage Buildings’ double-ended oak lychgate, from £7,800 excluding VAT, www.ehbp.com 3. An arch will add vertical height to your garden and can be planted with attractive climbers,

such as roses or wisteria, Rowlinson Round Top pressure-treated softwood arch, £149, www.heritagegardens.co.uk 4. An attractive arbour can be used in your garden as a standalone feature, or tucked into a secret nook, Gothic-style Winchester Garden Arbour, £399, www.heritagegardens.co.uk 5. Use a sail shade to create an instant outdoor room that will provide up to 90% UV block, Sail Shade, £118-£242, www.gardenhousedesign.co.uk

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aundry or utility rooms, no matter how small, offer tremendous decorative scope and deserve just as much thought being put into the

design process as other rooms. After all, who wants to spend time washing dirty socks or cleaning shoes in a dingy depressing hole?

A laundry room has an important function within the home, so it makes sense that it should be bright and pleasant, as well as practical - somewhere you feel comfortable, carrying out your household chores.

This will only be the case if you keep your laundry room uncluttered and clean. A messy room will become harder to work in and will become more time consuming. Like any room, getting the colour right should be a priority.

Spend some time choosing shades that are light and harmonious, particularly if space is tight and you want to create the impression of a larger area. This goes for work units and any other furniture you might include, such as dressers, benches, chairs, or shelves.

interiors 13

Laundered gentryThe modern laundry room may just be a domestic workspace, but doesn’t it deserve the chance to shine, too, asks Richenda Oldham?

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

L

Clockwise from left:

Wire shelving and an enamelled utility bucket provide practical storage solutions for laundry accessories, bucket £22, www.quinceliving.co.uk

A simple shelf instead of cupboards gives this Shaker-style utility room an uncluttered feel, Shaker kitchen around £8,000, www.devolkitchens.co.uk

Grey brick shaped glazed ceramic wall tiles complement the neutral colour scheme in this classic country utility room, www.ochreandocre.com

When space is tight, use decorative hooks to create an eclectic but eye-catching display of everything from utensils to peg bags, Command decorative hooks in white, slate or graphite, www.3M.co.uk

A solid wood work surface and an integrated washing machine, ensure that this classical laundry room is both stunning and practical, www.hillfarmfurniture.co.uk

• The layout of a laundry room is important if it is to operate efficiently. For small rooms, where every inch counts, you can try stacking the dryer on top of the washing machine (obviously only if it is a front-loading model).

• Use the space behind the door to hang items such as rubber gloves, aprons, brushes etc, this will give you more room to move around.

• Install a worktop over the washing machine and dryer, it will give you an additional work surface and somewhere to fold your clothes.

• Consider purchasing a laundry hamper on wheels, which can slide neatly beneath the work surface. You could even install underfloor heating, which will free up valuable space, as well as being an efficient way of heating the room.

• Think about where you will put large items such as a vacuum cleaner or ironing board. Will you need to purpose-build a tall cupboard or will it have to be left on display.

SPACE SOLUTIONS

• Work units which are the same style as those in your kitchen are an obvious choice for the laundry room, as they will create a sense of continuity.

• Use wall-mounted wire shelves to create an attractive laundry display of towels and cleaning materials. But remember you will have to be more organised than with cupboard storage.

• Shelves fitted with wicker, wire or plastic pull-out baskets can be custom-built in awkward areas, where cupboards cannot go.

• Combine built-in cupboards with open shelving for a fully functional workspace.

• When it comes to storage accessories, be creative – choose attractive glass or ceramic jars for cleaning brushes and detergent, or sisal/wicker floor-standing baskets.

FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES

• Ceramic floor tiles are ideal for a laundry room. They are easier to keep clean, as well as being cool in the summer. Make sure you pick hard-wearing tiles, such as natural stone tiles (travertine, slate, marble etc).

• Choose pretty glazed tiles as a splash back for the wall behind the sink. Brick shaped tiles are immensely popular, as are mosaic tiles. Tile as large an area of wall as possible – in fact many modern domestic rooms have floor-to-ceiling tiling, which is both practical as well as stylish.

TILES

1. Servis’ new FG 8kg HydroDrive model is ideal for large family washes and comes with the Allergy UK Seal of Approval, as well as an LED screen, £419, www.servis.co.uk; 2. Smeg’s WMFABAZ1 7kg washing machine comes in a choice of funky colourways – pastel blue, pink, cream and black – and offers a range of washes that includes a gym setting, £813, www.smeguk.com; 3. Amica’s AWN912DJB is a 9kg machine with 15 different programmes, including a super-fast 12-minute wash for smaller loads, £329, www.amica-international.co.uk; 4. Whirlpool’s 9kg WWDC 9444 was voted best model in a review of 18 washing machines by the Swiss test institute EMPA, £479.99, www.whirlpool.co.uk; 5. The stackable Maytag 10kg MWA10149WH features IntelliSense technology, which can save up to 70% on energy, water and time, £650, www.maytag.co.uk

14 interiors Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Sleek, eco-friendly and available now in rainbow colours, washing machines are bigger and smarter in more ways than one. Richenda Oldham looks at some of the latest models

Life on the fast spin

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interiors 15

Making an entranceDon’t neglect your hallway – it needs just as much thought as your other rooms, says Richenda Oldham

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

1. Choose a matching runner and carpet with a striped pattern to lengthen the appearance of a hallway, Anta Cawdor stair runner, £525 per metre, www.kelaty.com

2. As a general rule, avoid dark colours in a hall; however a splash of colour such as a deep red can make a tremendous impact, image courtesy of www.farrow-ball.com

3. Sturdy contemporary storage, such as this wire wall storage unit complete with coat hooks, is ideal for halls with restricted space, £115, www.vincentandbarn.co.uk

4. Stairs are subject to a high level of footfall, so as an alternative to carpet, which can wear out quickly, try painting a stair runner, image courtesy of www.farrow-ball.com

5. A floral arrangement on your hall table is the perfect way to add instant colour and welcome your visitors, hand-tied bouquet, £28.90, www.iflorist.co.uk

6. It’s important to maximise light in a hallway and a mirrored table will do exactly that by reflecting both natural and artificial lighting, Cattelan Italia Portofino console table, from £1,780, www.limemodernliving.co.uk

hen it comes to decorating priorities, why is it that the poor old hallway comes way

down the list? It is after all the entrance to your house and bears the

responsibility for setting the tone for the rest of your home.

The way houses are designed also reflects this room hierarchy, which is obviously why the majority of hallways are narrow spaces further restricted by the inclusion of a

staircase. Clearly this calls for a degree of ingenuity and some careful planning; but, be assured, the extra effort you put in to creating a hallway of merit will pay dividends in providing your visitors with the right welcoming atmosphere.

W1. Light and bright – don’t fall into the trap of using dark colours on the walls. Keep your walls clean and neutral. Pale shades will help create the impression of space.

2. Colours for impact – you can incorporate a bold colour by using it to make a focal point, such as the stair carpet, or by creating a dramatic flower arrangement or accessories.

3. Hallway storage – box benches with a lift-up seat, chests and shelving with hooks or pegs below will help to keep your entrance neat and tidy.

4. Draught excluder – a heavy interlined curtain in a beautiful fabric, hung above the inside of your front door on a curtain pole or on a hinged arm, will keep your hallway cosy and cut the cost of

your heating bills.

5. Add personality – the wall above the staircase is an ideal spot to hang pictures. Either opt for a collection of family photographs in a variety of frames, or choose a single large picture for maximum drama. The trick is to choose frames with a common theme.

6. Telephone table – we all need a surface on which to throw our keys and other personal effects when we return home. A slim but stylish console table is perfect for this job, as well as being an ideal spot to put a telephone. Alternatively choose a compact writing desk.

7. Stripes – it’s no coincidence that stair runners or hall carpets often have striped patterns. Stripes can lengthen or widen a space,

depending on which way they run. To make your hallway seem longer, choose carpet with a stripy pattern that runs lengthways.

8. Floors – natural wooden floors can add a warm welcome, while painted floors can help increase the sense of space.

9. Seating – an upholstered chair positioned beneath your stairs will help create a relaxed feeling. This also provides an opportunity to use a bold patterned or bright fabric for extra impact.

10. Lighting – for long narrow hallways, consider installing wall sconces at even distances, while for overall illumination choose pendants or chandeliers. Mirrors are invaluable in helping accentuate the effects of light.

TOP TEN TIPS TO MAKE A GRAND ENTRANCE

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REGENT’S WHARFWALSALL

You’re dream home could be closer than you think

COMPASS COURT, Hall Green, Birmingham 0845 605 7775

REGENTS WHARF, Leamore, Walsall 0845 605 7774

ALEXANDRA GRANGE, Tipton, Sandwell 0845 605 7773

Visit www.marcityhomes.com to find out more.

Designed for living – differentiated by style

hill.co.uk

2371 Hill What House Awards FC.indd 1 13/10/2014 12:54

Preview

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West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire – Find your new home at Whathouse.com

he WhatHouse? Awards is simply the most prestigious event in the new homes calendar, generally considered to be the

‘Oscars’ of the housebuilding industry. Hundreds of new build properties

and housebuilding companies from all over the UK vie to be Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in 20 categories, with one developer taking the most coveted title, Housebuilder of the Year.

Winning companies will proudly display their plaques at their marketing suites and even fly WhatHouse? Awards winner flags on

their developments. You’ll often find a WhatHouse? Awards logo on the website of successful developments too. If you’re in the market for a brand new home, keep an eye out for these signals that you’re looking at a prize-winning development.

Read on to find out more about last year’s Award winners.

This year’s Awards Gala Luncheon takes place on Friday 21 November in the Great Room of the Grosvenor House Hotel on London’s Park Lane. Find out who wins in our special supplement in next month’s edition of WhatHouse?

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Photography from Mill Green Chase

DEVELOPMENTS ACROSS THE MIDLANDS CALA.CO.UK CALA

HOME S

S U P E R I O R H O M E S, S U P E R B L O C A T I O N S

COME TO CALA

WHNOV 5 stars awarded for customers’ willingness to ‘Recommend to a Friend’ in findings of the 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 surveys, undertaken by the Home Builders Federation (HBF).

5 star customer service 5 years running

MILL GREEN CHASE, ALDRIDGE

5 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMESPRICES FROM £1,050,000

COPPER BEECH CLOSE, DORRIDGE

5 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMESCOMING SOON

BUSHWOOD GARDENS, DORRIDGE


BENNETT DRIVE, SUTTON COLDFIELD


Find your new home at Whathouse.com whathouse? awards preview 19

A year at the topRob Perrins, managing director of last year’s Housebuilder of the Year, Berkeley Group, reflects on the last 12 months in the industry. ow odd. All the big

issues of 2014 have begun with the letter ‘c’.

To start with, it’s been a year dominated by the

capital. London has driven and dominated the housing market. It remains the greatest city in the world and everyone wants a piece of it. London has a rare mix of qualities – creativity and tolerance; jobs and safety; green space and modernity. But the price of popularity is huge pressure on housing and transport. So we need to build.

Berkeley’s response centres on 25 sites, with more than 250 homes in construction across the city. Inspired by What House? (of course!), we have thrown ourselves into the reinvention of Rupert Murdoch’s old HQ at Wapping; architects Patel Taylor is helping us design a place christened London Dock, set to provide 1,800 homes.

We also have complex estate regeneration programmes like Kidbrooke Village and Woodberry Down. Each will take 20 years, provide around 5,000 homes, and heal a small part of London. Others range from the Strand to Barnet. It’s a mix as broad

as the city itself. This has also been a year of rising

costs. The price of materials and labour has soared. Contractors have become more selective. Lead-in times have lengthened. Just at the point when we need to accelerate, the industry

finds itself constrained by the age-old problems of skills and capacity.

Nationally, the number of 16-19 year olds doing an apprenticeship was down 12% in 2012/13; and though we associate these roles with young people, 45% of them were in fact aged over 25. So in June, Berkeley launched a commitment to increase the number of apprenticeships and training we support by 50%.

Personally, I believe the answer lies in two areas: long-term engagement by employers with schools, so that young people think seriously about a career in this industry; and continuity of employment, so that we better retain the talent we train.

Housing has also got a lot more contentious in 2014. As the pressures around supply and affordability increase, so the debate has become more political and emotive. That makes our job much harder. It demands a much more collaborative approach

and a recognition that planning is relational. We also need to make fresh arguments in support of new homes, demonstrating the positive connections between place-making and people’s quality of life.

Looking ahead to 2015, the last two ‘c’s are continuity and change. Strangely, we need both. Whoever wins the next election must recognise that a revolution in policy would be a disaster for housing. The numbers are rising already. Stability is what we most need.

But in return for a more consistent policy environment, politicians have a right to expect a step-change in output. They want an industry willing to risk building far more homes. They want to see us invest routinely in the people and the quality of design celebrated by these What House? awards.

Is that a deal we can strike?

H

Distinct Quality Since 1880

B17 HarborneSuperbly specified 4 bedroomtownhouses within walking distance of the High Street.

Northfield Road, Harborne, B17 0SU

Malferna View - Coming SoonSeven 4 & 5 bedroom homes set around a private driveway.

Astwood Bank, Worcestershire

The BloomeryA prestigious development of justnine 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes in a sought after location.

Giggetty Lane, Wombourne, WV5 0AX

The OrieIA stunning collection of fourteen 4 and 5 bedroom homes.

Whittington Road, Stourbridge, DY8 3BL

Kings CourtAn exclusive enclave of just ten 2, 3& 4 bedroom homes set within a private gated driveway.

Heathfield Road, Kings Heath, B14 7BU

Spire ViewTwelve luxury homes in the beautifulOld Yardley Park conservation area.

Church Road, Yardley, B33 8PA

Lime Grove - Coming SoonTwelve 4 and 5 bedroom homes setaround a private driveway.

Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, B29 6RB

Victoria GardensA delightful development in asecluded location. 3 & 4 bedroom homes available.

Victoria Avenue, Bloxwich, WS3 3HT

Longmoor GroveJust thirteen distinctive 4 and 5bedroom homes set around a private driveway.

Beech Hill Road, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1BY

Help to Buy Available*

Distinct Quality - Outstanding Locationsacross the West Midlands...

For information on all our developments call 01384 446 201or visit our website www.kendrickhomes.co.uk*Help to Buy available on homes up to £600,00. Terms and conditions apply. Photographs show a typical Kendrick home interior.

Help to Buy

20 whathouse? awards preview Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Best Luxury House – Stanborough Developments

Former Wolves and England keeper Matt Murray

Best House – Homes by Skanska

Best Brownfield Development – Berkeley Homes

Celebrity presenter, comedian Dave Spikey

Awards host Rupert Bates

Property guru Phil Spencer

Broadcaster and campaigner Esther Rantzen

Best Large Housebuilder – Berkeley Group ‘Restoration Man’ George Clarke

Some highlights from the WhatHouse? Awards 2013

AY0309_AUDLEY_WHAT_HOUSE_FULL_PAGE_340x265_27.10.14.indd 1 27/10/2014 09:57


Gold!Stephen Maunder takes a look

at ten of his favourite Gold award winners from last year’s

event. Find out what the judges had to say about the

best of the best at the WhatHouse? Awards 2013.

BEST MEDIUM HOUSEBUILDERCALA Homes“CALA has kicked on in its pursuit of excellence in every aspect of its work. It is no surprise to see many customers buying from CALA multiple times, as well as incredibly high referral rates. Gold standard again.”

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPER OF THE YEARHastoe Housing Association“This housebuilder has focused much of its efforts on providing sustainable and affordable housing that sits harmoniously within its environment and enables local people to remain in their communities and villages.”

HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF THE YEARA2 Dominion“A competent, middling performer a few years ago, this is an association that has upped its game to produce a hugely improved all-round performance and make itself a worthy winner.”

BEST STARTER HOME SCHEMESovereign LivingBeechfields View, Torquay“Beechfields View is an astonishing achievement. Not only is this development visually exciting, it also hits a commendable number of social and technical targets and fully merits its premier award.”

BEST APARTMENT SCHEMECity & Country GroupThe Galleries, Brentwood, Essex“It is no mean feat providing grand living spaces that manage to still feel homely and balance the old with the new artfully. City & Country has accomplished both of these deeds admirably.”

BEST LUXURY DEVELOPMENTAntler HomesQueen’s Rise, Windsor, Berkshire“The six Edwardian-style homes at Queen’s Rise are outstanding pieces of architecture in their own right. A beautifully conceived and executed development.”

BEST RETIREMENT DEVELOPMENTAudley Retirement Inglewood, Kintbury, Berkshire“This is a magnificent example of sympathetic restoration and top quality new build. Audley Retirement has thought about every aspect of the development, a restorative labour of love coupled with new thinking.”

BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGNBerkeley HomesKidbrooke Village, Greenwich, London“An unattractive road and neglected park has become an inspiring urban parkland. This regeneration has transformed the area physically and culturally and makes Berkeley a deserved winner.”

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNMount AnvilThe Orchard, Clerkenwell, London“Suma Interior Design’s vision has made this development a cut above, offering the edgy, contemporary look so beloved of both the project’s location and its target market.”

BEST PARTNERSHIP SCHEMEKier Partnership Homes, Birmingham Municipal Housing Trust, Birmingham City Council and the Homes & Communities AgencyBalaam Wood, Birmingham“The neighbourhood taking shape here is partnership development and community engagement at its very best, and deserves Gold in a highly impressive category.”

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HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEARBerkeley Group

BEST LARGE HOUSEBUILDERGold: Berkeley GroupSilver: Redrow HomesBronze (joint): Bloor Homes and Linden Homes

BEST MEDIUM HOUSEBUILDERGold: CALA HomesSilver: Mount AnvilBronze (joint): Churchill Retirement Living and Banner Homes

BEST SMALL HOUSEBUILDERGold: Antler HomesSilver: City & Country GroupBronze (joint): London Square and Audley Retirement

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPER OF THE YEARGold: Hastoe Housing AssociationSilver: Linden HomesBronze: Miller Homes

HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF THE YEARGold: A2Dominion GroupSilver: Affinity SuttonBronze (joint): Hastoe Housing Association and Sovereign Housing Association

BEST STARTER HOMEGold: Sovereign Living, Beechfields View, Torquay, Devon

Silver (joint): Notting Hill Housing, Heywood, Stanmore, London HA7 and Swan New Homes, Dimensions, Chelmsford, EssexBronze: Compendium Living, Mill Brook, Liverpool

BEST HOUSEGold: Skanska Residential Development, ‘House Type 7’, Seven Acres, Trumpington, CambridgeSilver (joint): Countryside Properties, ‘The Villa’, Kings Park, Harold Wood, Essex and St James, Number 3, Lime Grove Mews, London W12Bronze (joint): Mount Anvil, Townhouse, The Loxfords, 85 Highbury Park, London N5 and Antler Homes, ‘Roseberry House’, Queen’s Rise, Windsor, Berkshire

BEST APARTMENT SCHEMEGold: City & Country Group, The Galleries, Brentwood, EssexSilver (joint): First Base, VIVO, Stepney, London E1 and London Square Developments, Leonard Street, Shoreditch, London EC2Bronze: Newcourt Residential, Number One Oxshott, Oxshott, Surrey

BEST LUXURY HOUSEGold: Stanborough Developments, ‘La Pinède’, Branksome Park, Poole, DorsetSilver (joint): Regal Homes, ‘Lansdowne House’, Hampstead, London NW3 and Octagon, Hampton Lodge, Bray, BerkshireBronze: Huntsmere, Armstrong Farm, Alderley Edge, Cheshire

BEST RENOVATIONGold: Michael Wilson Restorations and Chelsminster Group, Albury Park Mansion, Albury, Guildford, SurreySilver: Ben Bailey Homes, Chevin Park, Menston, LeedsBronze: City & Country Group, ‘The Chapel’ at The Galleries, Brentwood, Essex

BEST DEVELOPMENTGold: CALA Homes, Trinity Park, EdinburghSilver: David Wilson Homes, Derwenthorpe, Osbaldwick, York, North YorkshireBronze (joint): Russell Homes, The Waterfront, Rhosneigr, Anglesey and David Wilson Homes, De Lacy Court, Castle Donington, Leicestershire

BEST PARTNERSHIP SCHEMEGold: Kier Partnership Homes, Birmingham Municipal Housing Trust, Birmingham City Council and the Homes & Communities Agency, Balaam Wood, BirminghamSilver (joint): Willmott Dixon, Notting Hill Housing, Merton Council and the Homes & Communities Agency, Brenley Park, Mitcham, Surrey and Crest Nicholson, the Homes & Communities Agency, Bath & North East Somerset Council, Curo and E.ON, Bath Riverside, BathBronze (joint): Mar City Homes, Accord Group and LoCal Homes, Richards Street, Darlaston, Wallsall, West Midlands and English Cities Fund and the London Borough of Newham, Vermilion, Canning Town, London E16

BEST LUXURY DEVELOPMENTGold (joint): Antler Homes, Queen’s Rise, Windsor, Berkshire and Newcourt Residential, Number One Oxshott, Oxshott, SurreySilver (joint): Haxted Estates, 328 Sandbanks Road, Poole, Dorset and Wyatt Homes, Harbour Ridge, Sandbanks, Poole, DorsetBronze: Dandara, Oakhill Grange, Aberdeen

BEST MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENTGold: Berkeley East Thames, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich, London SE18Silver: Standard Life Investments, Parkway, Newbury, BerkshireBronze: Knightstone Housing, J3, Easton, Bristol

BEST SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENTGold: Linden Homes, Affinity Sutton and the Homes & Communities Agency, Graylingwell Park, Chichester, West SussexSilver: Origin Housing, The Move, South Hampstead, London NW8Bronze: Skanska, Seven Acres, Trumpington, Cambridge

BEST RETIREMENT DEVELOPMENTGold: Audley Retirement, Inglewood, Kintbury, BerkshireSilver: Countryside Properties, Cliveden Village, Taplow, BuckinghamshireBronze (joint): Banner Homes, Glebelands,

Wokingham, Berkshire and Churchill Retirement Living, Gifford Lodge, Twickenham, Surrey

BEST BROWNFIELD DEVELOPMENTGold: Berkeley East Thames, Kidbrooke Village, Greenwich, London SE3Silver (joint): Linden Homes, Graylingwell Park, Chichester, West Sussex and Bloor Homes, Fortescue Fields, Norton St Philip, SomersetBronze: Lovell, The Way, Beswick, Manchester

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNGold: Mount Anvil, The Orchard, Clerkenwell, London EC1Silver: BMB Investments, Trafalgar One, London SW1Bronze: Audley Retirement, Inglewood, Hungerford, Berkshire

BEST EXTERIOR DESIGNGold: Redrow Homes,’Linley House’ at Stretton Green, Chester, CheshireSilver: Bloor Homes, Fortescue Fields, Norton St Philip, SomersetBronze: Wyatt Homes, Harbour Ridge, Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset

BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGNGold (joint): Berkeley East Thames, Kidbrooke Village, Greenwich, London SE3 and Michael Wilson Restorations and Chelsminster Group, Albury Park Mansion, Albury, Guildford, SurreySilver: Newcourt Residential, Number One Oxshott, Oxshott, Surrey

WhatHouse? Awards 2013 – the winners in full

Littleton View off Shinehill Lane, South Littleton, Worcesteshire, WR11 8TR

Littleton View, South Littleton. Show home and marketing suitenow open Thursday - Monday 10am - 5.30pm, prices from £250,000

Call now on 0845 873 2886 or email [email protected]

An exclusive development of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom detached family homes and bungalows. The development benefits from a rural village location with open countryside and the picturesque Cotswolds right on your doorstep

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LC10039 - South Littleton Whathouse Nov advert 265x168mm.pdf 1 27/10/2014 13:39:19

Find your new home at Whathouse.com retirement 25

ndividually, both Angela and Keith Airey became homeowners at the development in the town of Newport in 2012 after losing their partners. They first met at a

coffee morning in the communal lounge at Butter Cross Court, and soon became good friends.

As they spent an increasing amount of time together, they realised their relationship had blossomed and they had found love together.

“I moved to Butter Cross Court in August 2012 as my family home was becoming too much to manage,” explains Angela, 70. “After my husband sadly passed away, I spent a lot of time in the development’s shared areas in the company of my neighbours. Keith (82) was always so kind to me and I enjoyed his company, so when he asked me to accompany him to the local food festival that was on in town at the time, I couldn’t resist.

“From that moment on our friendship turned into something more and we spent a lot of time together, whether

with our friends at the development or out on day trips. We are both retired and have got involved in various social groups at the development. As our relationship flourished, we knew we would always be together and getting married just seemed like the right thing to do.”

Angela’s son has terminal cancer and they both wanted him to be at the wedding so he could give her away. Angela and Keith’s marriage was held at Wellington Registry Office on Thursday 18 September, among close family and friends, followed by an afternoon reception to celebrate at Butter Cross Court.

“We wanted a simple, yet elegant day that we could share with our loved ones and that is exactly what we got,” explains Angela. “Our service was beautiful and to hold our reception in the place we first met was perfect. The development has a delightful communal area, so it was ideal really.”

The couple are spending their honeymoon in Llandudno with friends from the Newport Stroke Club, of

which they are both members.“I don’t know what our plans

are for when we get back, but we’re just taking each day as it comes and looking forward to spending the rest of our lives together,” adds Angela.

ONE REMAINING APARTMENTThere is now just one remaining one-bedroom apartment available at Butter Cross Court, priced at £99,950. The development aims to offer buyers the independence of home ownership combined with a low-maintenance design that specifically caters for the later years in life.

Shared facilities include a lounge for socialising, a guest suite where visitors can stay, and a laundry. The dedicated house manager keeps the development running smoothly while a security entrance system and 24-hour emergency call points offer residents and their families safety and peace of mind.To find out more, visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk; 02476 244667

ITwo homeowners meet and fall in love at McCarthy & Stone’s Butter Cross Court retirement development

Shropshire homeowners meet and marry at retirement development

Thinking of selling your home?

Do you know how much your home is really worth? Find out with our FREE valuation service.

It’s a quick and easy process that you can carry out online or over the phone.

Visit www.whathouse.com/value-my-property/value-my- property-now or call us now on 0121 262 4146.

£?

WhatHouse? works with a team of reputable agents that will carry out the free valuation

Help to Buy is a Government backed initiative in partnership with housebuilders. *Shows price with 20% loan assistance. Available on selected plots, subject to status, terms and conditions. Help To Buy cannot be used in conjunction with any other scheme. It is highly advised, for a swift,smooth transaction that an IFA/Solicitor advised by Redrow Homes is used. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other Redrow offer. Image typical of a Redrow homes. Price correct at time of going to press. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UPREPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. CHECK THAT THIS MORTGAGE WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS IF YOU WANT TO MOVE OR SELL YOUR HOME OR YOU WANT YOUR FAMILY TO INHERIT IT. IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT, SEEK INDEPENDENT ADVICE.

Chestnut Walk, Bilston

Visit: redrow.co.uk/chestnut Call: 01902 471172

HELP TO BUY

Chestnut WalkBankfield Road, BilstonWest Midlands WV14 0TWOpen Daily, 10am ~ 5.30pm

2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes available from only

PURCHASE PRICE HELP TO BUY PRICE

£124,995 £99,996*

AT

4 & 5 bedroom detached family homes from

Part Exchange and our assisted move scheme Mastermove are available.

Compton Park in Compton

£444,995

Compton ParkCompton Road West,Wolverhampton WV3 9DX. See website for opening times

OUTSTANDING NEW

FAMILY HOMES

Visit: redrow.co.uk/compton Call: 01902 47115 3

Your mobile operator may charge data usage for scanning QR codes, please ensure you have the appropriate data plan. Offers available on selected plots only subject to availability, contract and status and on completions on or before the agreed date. Terms and conditions apply.See website for details. Redrow reserve the right to withdraw or alter this offer at any time prior to the payment of a reservation fee. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other Redrow offer. Image typical of a Redrow home. Price correct at time of going to print.

AT

Find your new home at Whathouse.com mortgages / news in brief 29

New home registrations rise to seven-year high he number of new home

registrations in the third quarter of this year increased

to its highest level since 2007,

according to new data from the National House Building Council (NHBC).

The figures reveal that overall new home registrations in the third quarter rise by 8% compared with the same period in 2013 with the private sector continuing to be the main driver of growth.

According to the NHBC, a total of 36,343 new homes were registered between July and September this year, up from 33,573 for the corresponding period last year.

The rise in new homes registrations comes as a welcome boost to the property industry, amid a general housing crisis caused by a lack of

properties coming onto the market.NHBC chief executive Mike Quinton

said: “Our figures show that the sharp housing upturn we have seen over the last couple of years is a genuine broad-based recovery across the whole of the country, with pockets of strong growth in the North East, Yorkshire & Humberside and West Midlands.”

T Rental price growth continuing to ease across the UK ental price growth across the

UK continued to ease last month, with twice as many

regions in the seeing falls than

those recording an increase in rental prices, according to findings from the September 2014 HomeLet Rental Index. The latest data shows a modest cooling for the second month in a row, with regions such as Greater London, the South East, South West and East Anglia moving to slower growth and a greater proportion of regions reporting

negative price movement. In September, eight regions

recorded rental price falls and only four regions recorded growth; Greater London at 0.1%, the West Midlands at 1.2%, the South West at 2% and Northern Ireland at 4.2%. This is 50% fewer than the number of regions reporting growth in August, when

six regions delivered growth and six recorded falls.

This month’s data has also shown the number of UK regions recording annual negative rental growth doubling from two to four. Scotland, Wales, the North East of England and the East Midlands now show rental prices that are lower than a year ago.

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More retirement homes needed to meet increasing demand evelopers are not building

enough retirement homes to cater for high demand from

a rapidly ageing population, according to a new study.

The Retirement Housing report compiled by property consultancy Knight Frank shows that such housing makes up just 2.8% of all new homes currently under construction in the UK. Yet with the over 65s making up almost 23% of the national population in the next 20 years, the low levels of housebuilding levels will add to the growing supply-demand imbalance in the purpose-built retirement homes sector.

According to a survey conducted for the report, a quarter of over 55s say they are likely to consider relocating to a retirement village in the future - suggesting that 4.4m over-55s, from across the UK, would consider buying or renting a purpose-built retirement property.

With a clear need for more retirement homes, there are signs that the appetite to develop age-exclusive housing – new homes built specifically for older people - may be set to pick up in the years to come. The latest data from Glenigan, the construction analysts, shows that the number of elderly housing units awaiting planning consent is more than double the number currently being built.

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New homes coming soon to North Solihull ellway Homes has opened its

new sales centre to prospective buyers at Digby Court in

Solihull. Digby Court is being built

upon the grounds of the former Bishop Wilson School in Pike Drive following the school’s move to new premises in nearby Chelmund’s Cross.

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council approved plans for the development in April and work was underway soon afterwards.

Bellway will also fund 64 affordable

rented homes for local people, invest £100,000 in an all-weather sports facility, pay for improvements at the nearby Meriden Park, create a landscaped green area within the homes and pay £178,000 towards a new drainage system.

These stylish new homes in north Solihull are served by several local primary and secondary schools,

including St Anne’s Catholic Primary School and Windy Arbor Junior & Infant School. Nearby secondary schools include CTC Kingshurst Academy and John Henry Newman Catholic School.

For more information ahead of the show home opening on November 22nd, you can visit www.bellway.co.uk or call the marketing team on 07805 745 878.

BStamp duty proceeds up by a third in the West Midlands tamp duty proceeds from the

sales of homes in the West Midlands rose 31% to £230

million in 2013/14, up from £175 million the previous year, according to new HM Revenue and Customs data.

The cost remains below the pre recession peak, but the latest data shows a nine-fold increase in the total yield from the region in the past 20 years.

Residential stamp duty yield

in the West Midlands peaked at £325 million in 2006/07 during the height of the property boom, but fell to £135 million by 2008/09.

Of the £6.45 billion revenue collected in the last year, 42% came from London and 21% from property sales in the South East.

Sales of homes are free of stamp duty up to the value of £125,000 and attract a 1% tax on prices up to £250,000.

Two new residential stamp duty tax bands were introduced in 2012/13, with a new 7% rate coming into effect for all residential transactions over £2 million.S

Mortgage hope for self-employed as lenders loosen tough underwriting

ince the financial crisis, more people have become self-employed in Britain than ever before. While being your own boss might make

you a ‘national hero’ – at least in the words of David Cameron – working for yourself can also be a challenge.

Over recent years, mortgage companies have tightened their criteria when it comes to self-employed applicants. Many business owners been forced out of the mortgage market as rules have become stricter.

Even before April’s Mortgage Market Review it had become tough for self-employed applicants to get a mortgage without three years’ proof of earnings. This had made it hard for the newly self-employed and contractors to get a home loan.

While criteria remains tough with many lenders, in recent weeks several mortgage providers have begun to consider self-employed borrowers with

just one year’s worth of accounts. The list includes Halifax, part of Lloyds Banking Group, as well as specialist lenders such as Kensington, Precise Mortgages and Principality.

The Daily Telegraph also reports that there are lenders, such as Clydesdale Bank, who are prepared to consider applications from contractors where they can demonstrate a previous employment history in the same field.

Keith Osborne, editor of WhatHouse? says: “The latest figures show that around 15% of the UK’s workforce is now self-employed. Unless lenders start to take a commonsense view towards these people, over 4.5 million borrowers will find it tough to get a mortgage.”

SELF EMPLOYED? WHAT YOUR LENDER WILL NEED TO SEEIf you work for yourself, most lenders will want to see three years’ worth

of accounts or proof of the tax you have paid via your SA302s. Some lenders will accept a certificate from your accountant - as long as they are fully qualified.

If you are a sole trader, you will

generally need to prove your net profit before tax; if you own a limited company, you will need to prove both your wages and dividends. Some lenders will take retained profits into account but

others will not. If you’re a contractor or

freelancer, lenders will consider your experience, your history of contracting, the length of your current contract and the likelihood of it being renewed. You are more likely to be approved for a mortgage if you have at least two years history of working on fixed-term contracts in your industry.

If you are on your first contract, you may be able to get a mortgage if you have minimum of six months remaining and at least two years of uninterrupted history in the same line of work.

Osborne adds: “As well as proving your income, it’s also a good idea to have six months’ worth of personal and business bank statements available. Bear in mind also that your mortgage amount may not be based on your most recent profits but on an average of the last few years.”

There are finally signs that lenders are looking more sympathetically on self-employed borrowers, discovers Nick Parkhouse

S

Agent InsightCould you please give us a brief introduction to your company and the area in which you operate?Hunters Harborne launched earlier this year following the rebranding of Knightstone Estate Agents in Harborne. Myself, Simon Redhead and Dean Meyrick are franchise owners of the branch and between us we have 60 years’ experience in the industry. We are proud to be part of the UK’s fastest growing independent estate agency group, and are excited that we are part of a network which has over 125 branches across the UK. The branch operates throughout Harborne and Edgbaston and within a 2/3 mile radius of these areas.

What types of properties do you sell?We have a significant range of property in the Harborne area. We market anything from one-bedroom flats at £100,000 right through to £1 million houses. Our main business is currently homes priced between £225,000 and £650,000.

What is the property market currently like in your area?We’ve had a very active year. Prices are

still fairly buoyant and the market is strong, and this can be attributed to Harborne’s great location. It’s close enough to Birmingham to benefit from easy access into the city but avoids the high price points in the city centre. Queen Elizabeth Hospital is just outside this area too, as is Birmingham University, both of which generate a large need for housing. I expect prices to remain the same next year, if not increase.

What are the current buying and renting trends in your area?

We are mainly seeing professionals buying in Harborne; with the area popular with medics due to our close proximity to Queen Elizabeth Hospital. The rental market here is also very strong, with much of the demand coming from tenants on short term contracts at the hospital or studying at Birmingham University.

How much do properties typically cost to buy and rent?

A two-bedroom flat would start at around £150,000, a two-bedroom terrace at £250,000 and a family home at £300,000. On the rental

side, a two-bedroom flat would cost roughly £800 per calendar month and a four-bedroom family home would cost £1,700.

Where is the best place for first-time buyers to purchase a home?

The area is so affordable that there are properties available for first-time buyers pretty much everywhere in and around Harborne.

Are there any particular areas in which investors should be looking to buy property?

Properties throughout the area find tenants fairly quickly, especially if they have easy access to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Birmingham University.

What do you expect to see happen in the local market during the remainder of the year?We have just had a flurry of activity, and despite getting nearer to Christmas we are still selling a number of properties at their asking price and sometimes above it. The market will obviously slow down as we get nearer Christmas, but we certainly expect it to pick up again in the New Year.

We speak to Andy Thomas, director of Hunters in Harborne Find out more at huntersnet.co.uk; 0121 647 4233

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