whathouse? west midlands july & august 2015

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PLANNING REFORMS P3 INTERIORS P13 AGENT INSIGHT P24 LEGALS P28 MORTGAGES P30

West Midlands EditionJuly/August 2015

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

Making a splash – our favourite homes with pools P10

Shore thing– coastal homes supplement P20

For more information about our extensive range of quality homes, from first time buyer apartments to luxury executive houses visit

www.lioncourthomes.co.ukor call 01905 755167

Quality homes in desirable locationsacross the Midlands

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MME Full Page Showhouse 4a.indd 1 27/07/2015 10:50

he government has wasted little time in setting out a plan to increase the number of new homes being built in the UK. After

a summer Budget that focussed on buy-to-let reform, social housing and inheritance tax changes, chancellor George Osborne and business secretary Sajid Javid waited two days before announcing plans to revitalise housebuilding in the UK as part of the government’s Fixing the Foundations plan.

In the run up to May’s election, housebuilding (or the lack thereof) was high on the agenda, with limiting factors including planning restraints, landbanking and skills shortages all coming under the microscope. Indeed, output in the construction industry has decreased by 1.3% according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics, with housebuilding reporting the largest drop in four years, 5.8%, further outlining the need for government intervention to increase the new homes supply.

Under the reforms, a zonal system

will be set up, allowing automatic planning permission on designated brownfield sites, cutting red tape and delays and allowing rapid development on derelict land in towns and cities. Another new law will allow the government to impose a housing plan on any local authorities who fail to produce their own, as well as implementing penalties on councils who are slow to process planning applications. A separate reform will end the need for London homeowners to apply for planning permission to extend properties up to the height of an adjoining building.

The government plans to create 200,000 starter homes and 275,000 affordable homes by 2020, a target that the chancellor accepts is unachievable under the long-standing planning rules.

CRITICISMThe planned introduction of the zonal system has not been universally welcomed, with critics suggesting that the automatic granting of planning permission will take power away

from local authorities and result in an increased risk of hastily created and poorly planned developments.

Kate Henderson, chief executive of the Town and Country Planning Association, said: “Our real concern is if you can’t have a conversation about things like internal space standards, accessibility and green space, we’re really risking creating slums of the future. We appreciate the government wants to speed things up, but it shouldn’t just be about quantity but quality. If planning is deregulated any further, we’ll end up with places that we’re going to regret building.”

There is also the question of whether the planning reforms will result in a

greater proportion of affordable homes being built. The Office for Budget Responsibility, set up by the government in 2010, said the restrictions placed on housing association rents in the Budget announcement would have a knock-on effect on housebuilding, reducing rather than increasing the number of affordable homes built. They said: “The government’s decision to impose 1% annual rent reductions in the social rented sector for four years from April 2016 will directly reduce social landlords’ rental income, and therefore their financing for investing in new housebuilding...Over the forecast period, our assumptions suggest around 14,000 fewer affordable homes will be built.”

Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes planning regulations 3

Government announces planning shake-up to get Britain building

Welcome!

ir Lawrie Barratt, who gave his name to one of Britain’s biggest housebuilders, is the man credited with bringing

the show house into popular usage, nearly 50 years ago.

For many people, it’s still a vital component in the homebuying process (in the new build sector) and let’s be honest, that principle also stands in the resale market inasmuch as vendors usually go to great lengths to freshen up their home before putting it on the market. Many will spend a lot of time and money on repainting and decorating to achieve a ‘show house’ feel.

While off-plan buying is certainly popular with many investors – usually because the ‘early birds’ are likely to see the largest capital appreciation – for people who are buying a home for themselves, there’s often a desire to see and feel the quality of the product first-hand.

Even in an age where many of us conduct significant parts of our life online and remotely, there are some things that just don’t seem right without some personal attention. ‘Big ticket’ items, such as cars and homes, are perhaps the most common examples of the latter.

I see a lot of show homes in my job, as I get out and about pretty frequently to see a wide range of new homes, from compact shared ownership apartments to huge luxury mansions. While the budgets are certainly different, the tenets of bringing a show home are basically the same across the spectrum.

There are always a few key areas which need the wow factor – kitchens, master bedrooms and bathrooms, primarily – and it is in these rooms that the generic neutral look applied to many show homes is often given a more audacious touch. It may be some ultra-stylish accessories, a bespoke headboard or some lavish towels and beauty products – something that the house-hunter will take away as a particular memento to differentiate that property from the others they have seen.

Even if you’re not looking to buy a new build home, if you’re selling a property, it’s worth taking a look at what’s on the market because your current home is fighting against these properties for the same buyers. With some creativity, you could achieve a similar look without spending an absolute fortune and if it helps secure a quick sell or your target price, it will be time and money well spent.

Happy house-hunting!

KeithKeith Osborne, editor. [email protected] @keithosborne69

S

Sajid Javid, business secretary“We’re going to introduce a new zonal system, which will effectively give automatic planning permission on suitable brownfield sites...We’ll make sure the homes that are needed get built – if a council fails to produce a suitable local plan, we’ll have it done for them. And we’ll be devolving major new planning powers to London and Greater Manchester.

“We’re also going to remove the need for Londoners to seek planning permission for upwards extensions up to the height of an adjoining building, provided your neighbours don’t object.”

George Osborne, chancellor“I am not prepared to stand by when people who want to get on the housing ladder can’t do so. We’ll keep on protecting the green belt, but these latest planning reforms are a vital part of a comprehensive plan to confront the challenge of our lifetime and raise productivity and living standards.”

Shabana Mahmood, shadow treasury secretary“The [Fixing the Foundations] document is a patchwork of existing schemes rather than a substantial reform to boost skills, business growth and wages.”

WHAT THEY SAID

The Conservatives hope that new planning measures will free up the housebuilding in the UK, but what do the industry experts think?

Estate Agents Glynis Frew, managing director of Hunters“This will undoubtedly create a lot more movement at all levels in the market and will not only create new homes but also a number of new jobs in the housing and construction sector.”

Nicholas Leeming, chairman of Jackson-Stops and Staff“The government needs to ensure that these sweeping reforms do not get obstructed by the detailed negotiations which surround any planning application. Delays are often more about roads and communal facilities as the level of housing. These are all important elements in creating new communities and must be factored in to the promised changes.”

Housebuilders Steve Sanham, development director at London housebuilder HUB “This is a very positive announcement by the chancellor, but as with previous announcements about simplifying the planning system, which have only had limited

impact, the devil will be in the detail.“Automatic consent will terrify

the only recently empowered localism lobby, and the success of such sweeping changes will be the balancing of those important parts of the localism agenda such as the quality, and meeting local need, with the wider socioeconomic benefits of quicker and simpler development.”

Steve Errington, chief executive of Story Homes“We welcome the government proposals to grant automatic planning permission on brownfield sites. These moves will undoubtedly help developers who are looking to build on brownfield sites to get schemes built quickly and to help customers into their new homes. Proposals to speed up the planning process across the board are also welcomed as this will stop costly delays for developers.

“Britain needs more homes and moves to help homebuilders achieve this will give confidence to the industry. But, although unlocking brownfield land is a very positive move, the shortfall of new housing supply will not be fulfilled with brownfield land alone.”

INDUSTRY REACTION

T

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Managing director Daniel Hill

Editorial director Rupert Bates

Editor Keith Osborne [email protected]

Assistant editor Stephen Maunder [email protected]

Chief sub-editor Suzanne Frost

Designer Sarah Davies

Contributors Marc Da Silva Nick Parkhouse Richenda Oldham Tilly Rubens

Sales director Adrian Talbot [email protected]

Head of sales Andy Lunn [email protected]

Business development manager Steve Coyle [email protected]

Sales manager Murad Paloba [email protected]

Head of digital Simon Phillips [email protected]

Cover photo: Earls Green in Barassie, Troon courtesy of Stewart Milne Homes, from £139,995, stewartmilnehomes.com, 0845 075 8145

Keith Osborne started writing about property 14 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 WhatHouse? 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 WhatHouse? 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.

Published by: Globespan Media Limited, 291-299 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JG T: 020 7940 1070 E: [email protected] W: www.whathouse.comPrinted by 39zero / Distributed by Royal Mail © 2015 Globespan Media Limited

WhatHouse?, ISSN: 02691310

A chance to win £50

One of our new followers from 3rd August to 1st September will win

£50 in Marks and Spencer vouchers

It couldn’t be simpler – just ‘follow’ us on Twitter (@What_House)

Managing director Daniel Hill

Editorial director Rupert Bates

Editor Keith Osborne [email protected]

Keith Osborne started writing about property 14 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 WhatHouse? 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 WhatHouse? 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.

Assistant editor Stephen Maunder [email protected]

Chief sub-editor Suzanne Frost

Designer Sarah Davies

Contributors Marc Da Silva Nick Parkhouse Richenda Oldham Tilly Rubens

Sales director Adrian Talbot [email protected]

Head of sales Andy Lunn [email protected]

Business development manager Steve Coyle [email protected]

Sales manager Murad Paloba [email protected]

Head of digital Simon Phillips [email protected]

Cover photo: Earls Green in Barassie,Troon courtesy of Stewart Milne Homes,from £139,995, stewartmilnehomes.com,0845 075 8145

Published by: Globespan Media Limited, 291-299 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JG T: 020 7940 1070 E: [email protected] W: www.whathouse.comPrinted by 39zero / Distributed by Royal Mail © 2015 Globespan Media Limited

WhatHouse?, ISSN: 02691310

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.

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6 new homes Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

Close callFamily unveils road sign dedicated to their father at Worcester housing development pioneering doctor has

been remembered by having a road named after him on a new housing development

in Worcester. His family recently visited the development and attended a ceremony to unveil the sign on a road named in his honour.

Chalmers Close, at the David Wilson Homes Mercia development

Broadheath Meadows, was named after surgeon Hamish Chalmers. Mr Chalmers was a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist in Ronkswood from 1950-1977 and was the first in the country to introduce the ventouse instrument for delivering babies.

His sons and daughter, Sir Iain Chalmers, Dr Robert Chalmers and Penelope Chalmers, were invited to the development to see the sign.

Broadheath Meadows is situated on the site where the Ronksworth Maternity Unit used to stand.

Dr Robert Chalmers said: “We are extremely proud that our father has been remembered in this way. It was wonderful to visit Broadheath Meadows and see his name on the signs, particularly as this is exactly where the Ronkswood Maternity Unit, in which he worked for 25 years, used to be.”

Steve Barton, senior sales manager at David Wilson Homes Mercia, said: “We are very pleased to have been able to recognise Mr Chalmers by naming a road after him at Broadheath Meadows. When choosing road names we aim to celebrate people who have had an impact in the area and Mr Chalmers certainly did this with his work at the maternity hospital.”

Broadheath Meadows is located

around one mile from the centre of Worcester and is a development of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, with 35 homes located on Chalmers Close. Prices on the new development start from £340,000.

Contact the sales team from Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 9.00pm and Saturday to Sunday, 8.00am to 8.00pm.Find out more at www.dwh.co.uk; 01905 630213

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3 Kathleen Grange & May Court, Bideford Exclusive collection of 3 & 4 bedroom homes Tel: 01237 424224 [email protected]

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5 Derrington Mews, Kempsey Stunning development of 10 houses & bungalows Tel: 01905 821066 [email protected]

6 Merrybrook Grange, Evesham A stunning selection of 2, 3 & 4 bedroom detached houses and bungalows Tel: 01905 821066 [email protected]

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10 six appeal Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes10 six appeal Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

‘The Lodge’ is located adjacent to open fields and farmland on Tuddenham Road, on the northeast outskirts of Ipswich. This property has been the home of the current owners for a number of years, during which time they have heavily extended and remodelled it to create this substantial family residence.

The accommodation, which is of contemporary design and split across two floors, stretches to approximately 4,000 sq ft. It is set on a plot of approximately 1.3 acres and boasts a noteworthy swimming pool complex, which has a 6m x 15m pool, with a maximum depth of 2.5m, two changing rooms with shower facilities, a sauna area and a sauna room. The complex was constructed in 2012 and the current vendor has a number of lease arrangements that provide an income

from the pool. Further details about these are available on request.

The property has six double bedrooms with an en suite shower room and dressing room to the master bedroom. There are four reception rooms, a large family bathroom and a double garage, and the house is double glazed and centrally heated, with underfloor heating to the ground floor. There are also inset ceiling spotlights to the majority of the rooms and a surround-sound system which again serves most rooms.

The plot is screened from Tuddenham Road by a high brick-rendered wall and the property is gated by a retractable electronic gate.

From: Fenn Wright Contact: : 01472 232700

Lexicon, London EC1 • From £715,000

This magnificent family home comes with not one but two pools – one indoor and one outdoor!

As you might expect with such a hefty price tag, you’ll want for nothing. The house has a 1.5-acre garden on the prestigious Crown Estate in one of Surrey’s most sought-after residential areas. You’ll probably find yourself the neighbour of a Chelsea football player or two.

With seven bedroom, including six suites, together with five reception rooms, there’s plenty of room for family and guests, who, if they don’t fancy a dip, could make use of the gym, sauna or hot tub. There’s separate accommodation in the annexe for staff, to help you deal with all the towels you’ll be using.

The kitchen/breakfast room makes a great indoor entertaining space, with an extensive outdoor/barbecue area for those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer.

You’ll also have access to Prince’s Coverts, which is managed woodland owned by the Crown Estate.

A triple garage, high levels of security, air conditioning to the kitchen area and ultra-fast broadband throughout complete the package.

From: John D Wood Contact: 01932 864252

Birds Hill Drive, Oxshott, Surrey • £6.75m

Standing tall in the heart of one of London’s most exciting stretches of regeneration is this development by Mount Anvil in joint venture with Affinity Sutton, which will produce an iconic, 36-storey tower, designed by world-renowned architects SOM – the architects behind the world’s tallest building, Duabi’s Burj Khalifa – and Squire & Partners.

Lexicon offers 307 new homes (200 of which for private sale), in a canalside setting just moments from Tech City in EC1.

Expect incredible London views from the apartments inside Islington’s tallest residential building. Residents will benefit from a 24-hour concierge and exclusive lounge. The icing on the cake is the luxurious residents-only spa, with its pool, gym, sauna and steam room, offering an oasis of calm away from the throng of the City.

From: Mount Anvil Contact: 020 7205 4017

‘The Lodge’, Ipswich, Suffolk • £1.25m

Six appealOur pick of luxury homes on the market that come with a swimming pool

For the latest on the property market @What_House six appeal 11For the latest on the property market @What_House six appeal 11

‘Woodlands’, Warfield, Berkshire £2m

Longdon Wood, Keston, London Borough of Bromley £3.15m

‘Saddle Stones’, St George’s Hill, Surrey • £9.5mSt George’s Hill is renowned as one of the best private estates in the UK, if not the world, and is based around a world-class 18-hole golf course. Its leafy streets are lined with some beautiful homes, the property of oligarchs, celebrities and sports stars.

This elegant, seven-bedroom villa sits hidden behind a pair of secure, ornamental iron entry gates on Old Avenue, one of the best roads on the estate. Constructed in mellow stock bricks with stylish stone dressings and arranged over three floors, Saddle Stones has a plot of an acre which features, between the terrace and the lawn, a heated swimming pool with feature fountains.

There’s also a gazebo and

summerhouse, and the master bedroom has its own large terrace from which to peruse the secluded garden.

Inside, the lavish accommodation (interior designed by the acclaimed NR Group) includes an impressive bespoke kitchen/breakfast room, six bedroom suites, a cinema room, a lift accessing all three floors, and an integral triple garage with car turntable. There is, of course, staff accommodation too.

Saddle Stones can be viewed by appointment seven days a week and is open at weekends from 10.00am to 4.00pm.

From: Octagon Contact: 020 8481 7500

This substantial six-bedroom house, which provides accommodation of approximately 8,300 sq ft, has an excellent specification that includes a Creston home automation system, underfloor heating and a bespoke entrance hall with oak staircase. For those with security in mind, there are 10 remotely monitored CCTV security cameras around the property.

The landscaped gardens feature a heated and filtered swimming pool, log cabin entertainment pavilion and terraced areas, ideal for

entertaining. It certainly has all the hallmarks of a party house.

There are grounds of approximately three-quarters of an acre and there is planning consent to construct an extensive brick-built extension to enclose the pool area.

The accommodation on the ground floor comprises a bespoke Stoneham kitchen/breakfast room with adjoining utility room, drawing room, study, family room and dining room. The master bedroom, on the first floor, has an en suite bathroom and dressing area.

A roof garden is also accessible from the master bedroom and second bedroom. There are four further en suite bedrooms. Also on the second floor are a substantial cinema and games room, and a further bathroom.

From: Alan de MaidContact: 01689 813333

Set within a huge plot of 6.4 acres, this versatile and unique six-bedroom detached property is accessed by electric gates – so privacy and security are well taken care of.

The property has a large parking area and various outbuildings including a log cabin that overlooks a private pond, two stables and a large barn warehouse. Included within the main residence is a games room, gym, and an indoor swimming pool complex.

The property is also offered with no onward chain complications.

Warfield is just outside Bracknell, so there’s easy access to everyday

shops and amenities. The M4 and other Thames Valley routes are very accessible and for the daily commute (or weekend treat), there are frequent rail services from Bracknell itself or Martins Heron station.

From: RomansContact: 01344 400100

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Tel: 0207 474 1121www.hoola-london.co.uk [email protected]

Images are artists impressions for indicative purposes

interiors 13For the latest on the property market @What_HouseFor the latest on the property market @What_House

Reeling in the yearsAged but not old sums up the increasingly popular interior style of ‘shabby chic’. Richenda Oldham shows how to achieve the look habby chic is a style that

we Brits are extremely good at. The faded florals, dusty velvets and peeling paintwork that epitomise

this look are things that we seem to have an affinity for.

Getting shabby chic right, when it has to appear effortless, is not as easy as you might think. After all this is not about antiques, it’s about interiors and accessories that look old or worn yet with a touch of informal elegance.

Faded pretty country florals, rustic charm and an appreciation of imperfections (as long as they have style) add to the attractiveness of this flea market vogue.

COMFORTBig sloppy armchairs and sofas in distressed leather or chintzy washable slipcovers are just the ticket to flop out in after a hard day’s work. The key here is informality and comfort, where the odd dog hair or feet on the sofa will not cause undue alarm.

COLOURThe colours associated with shabby chic are deliciously soft hues such as mint, aqua, dusty rose, biscuit, sand, ivory, cream, pistachio, sky blues and pale greys. These can be offset by crisp white, which accentuates them beautifully. Mix and match these colours as they all complement each other superbly. Silver is a wonderful shade that can be used to add sparkle, particularly in accessories, from photograph frames to ornaments.

FURNITUREWhile precious antiques are not part of shabby chic, good design, form and style are definitely important. So attractively shaped vintage furniture discoveries, with distressed paint finishes, fit the bill perfectly. It is pre-loved individuality that you are seeking rather than conformity. The great thing about shabby chic style is that it is ideal for anyone on a tight budget. So a plain piece of furniture can be

transformed with a peeling paint effect or colour washes.

ACCESSORIESSmell, believe it or not, has a role to play in shabby chic, so flower arrangements are ideal, as are scented candles – choose ones with notes of rose, lavender and amber. Put the flowers in your best vase and let the aromas of the candles fill your home and contribute to making it a warm and welcoming place.

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This white distressed mirror would make a marvellous centrepiece in a shabby chic interior; £95, www.livelaughlove.co.uk

Soft ivory and biscuit hues form part of the shabby chic palette and are used here with faded florals to create an alluring, romantic bedroom, that is both simple yet charismatic; www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Pretty vintage cups and saucers have been used as tea light holders in this appealing teatime table setting; striped tablecloth, £40, www.ochreandocre.com

With its subtle leopard print rug, antlers and painted bureau, this room has a touch of the colonial about it; www.kelaty.com

Pretty floral fabrics and pastel coloured china have been combined here with distressed painted wooden furniture for an informal but utterly charming look; www.directblinds.co.uk

14 interiors For the latest on the property market @What_House

Read all about itLibraries evoke a feeling of nostalgia and are calm, cosy rooms to tuck up with a good book. Even the smallest of spaces can be transformed with the right approach, says Richenda Oldham good library is much

more than just a repository for a bunch of books: it’s an oasis of calm and a refuge

from the frenetic pace of modern life. As such, it could even be viewed as a necessity.

On a practical level, if a dedicated library feels too much of a luxury, then a combined office/library, where technology mixes with a traditional approach, is a sensible compromise.

When setting out to create a library room in your home, first decide where it is going to be located and how much space can be allocated. Obviously a room with doors is ideal, but a quiet corner in a living room will also work well. Just make sure you avoid areas of high traffic.

SHELVESBecause books obviously feature highly in a library scheme, you need to

decide how many shelves you actually need. You might also find that a combination of shelves and cupboards is more practical - so that items such as games or toys can be hidden away.

Vary the space between the shelves so you can accommodate large as well as small books. If the room you have chosen is small, consider floor-to-ceiling shelves, which also give the illusion of height and maximise space, particularly above doorways.

COLOURSTraditionally the colours associated with libraries are dark, rich shades, such as green, brown and burgundy, but there is no reason why lighter colours can’t be used. After all, this is a room for relaxation, so it is important that you choose colours that you are comfortable with.

FURNITUREYour library will need furniture in it.

What you choose will depend on how much room you have. Large armchairs or sofas are perfect for chilling out in with a good book - leather finishes are practical and very much part of the look. You could also include a low-level coffee table in the centre. However, if you are planning to work in your library, you will need a good-sized desk and a supportive chair. Don’t forget to have decent quality lighting - standard lamps, ceiling lights or wall lights - that provide adequate illumination for reading.

WALLPAPER OR PAINT?This is an entirely personal choice, but libraries do lend themselves to wallpaper. There are some amazing trompe l’oeil book effect wallpapers currently available. So if you don’t want actual wall-to-wall bookshelves, these will give you the look without having to use real books.

A

1 The Penguin paperback is an iconic design, featuring striking colours and a distinct typography that evokes the 1930s. Now it has been reproduced in a clever wallpaper collage, using the front covers of original Penguin books; Tapete Penguin Library wallpaper, £77.07 per 52cm x 10m roll, www.5qm.de

2 This rather spiffing bowler hat is actually an ingenious lamp by Jake Phipps. It’s handmade from wool felt and is reinforced with a metallic gold finish, which casts a warm glow when it is switched on; Jeeves Bowler Hat Wall Lamp, £185, www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

3 As libraries are supposed to be seats of learning, a globe or two would certainly not go amiss. These vintage style globes come in sepia or ivory finishes and will demonstrate a geographical affinity; £39.50, www.withinhome.com

4 Leather armchairs are de rigeur furniture if you are seriously looking to create a library look. Deluxe vintage leather wing chair, £1,495, www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk

5 You can’t beat a solid wood partner desk: it’s a classic design that is synonymous with libraries, offices or studies. The idea behind it was that two business partners could sit opposite each other; Versailles partner desk in solid mahogany wood, £620 (£496 currently on sale on the website), www.islandfurnitureco.com

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FOR ACOMPLIMENTARY BROCHURE OR A DESIGN CONSULTATION CALL 0800 328 0033

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

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A trick of the eye

f you are faced with a miserably small patch of ground that currently masquerades as a garden, take heart. There are plenty of visual tricks that can

be used to transform a pocket hankie into a bold bandana. The key to achieving this metamorphosis is to think big and be confident.

So, go on, be brave and try using the following steps to create a spectacular space that you can be proud to call your garden.

SHAPE AND STRUCTUREThe shapes you create within your garden are absolutely key to its success. So the lawn and patio areas need careful consideration. One of the best ways to make a garden seem larger is the use of circular shapes. A circle of lawn will have a fattening effect that will help make the garden seem larger than it is, particularly if the original space is square shaped. If you have room, you could try two circles together, but make the circle nearest the house larger than the one furthest away, which changes the perspective and makes it look longer.

PLANT IN PROPORTIONDon’t allow your planting to outweigh your lawn or patio, as over-sized plants will overwhelm your garden. So keep a sense of proportion by choosing plants that won’t grow too large for the garden. If you have borders, plant small plants at the front and larger ones at

the back. Make use of climbing plants or even trees to create the illusion of height (and therefore space).

HIDDEN SPACESAnother way of creating the illusion of size is to keep the second half of the garden hidden from view – like a secret garden. You can do this by placing a pergola over a path, so it becomes part of the walkway or by laying a winding path that leads to an area of lawn or patio with a bench or table and chairs.

MATERIAL SIZESWhile it works to be bold in the overall design, when it comes to materials, such as paving slabs or tiles, it’s actually better to use smaller sizes that are in proportion to the space. The same goes for stone gravel and decking. Pay particular attention to the direction in which you lay the slabs or decking – run it from side to side, to make your garden look wider or from top to bottom if you want it to appear longer.

COLOURChoose warm colours to use nearer the house and cooler colours at the far end of the garden, which will create the illusion of distance. Another way of achieving this effect is to use darker colours in the distance. A feature, such as a statue or a fountain will also help give the impression of greater length than is actually there.

Small gardens can be challenging, but Richenda Oldham has some practical solutions that will help make your tiny space look bigger

I Circles – circular shapes are a great way of creating the illusion of space either through imaginative planting, lawns, or paving

Mystery – an archway will prevent the garden from being seen in one go and will make it appear larger

Reflections – use water, such as a small pool, to reflect light and surroundings

Proportion – borders should have low level planting at the front with taller plants at the back

Pathways – a winding path that leads to a small patio at the end of the garden will add mystery

interiors 17For the latest on the property market @What_House

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 01245 835 053.

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

roperties within 100 metres of the sea are worth 12.4% more on average than those one kilometre away, proving that our coast

remains as popular as ever with buyers.With the Coastal Communities Fund

to be extended by the government until 2020/21, providing at least a further £90m to unlock the potential of coastal areas, revitalise communities and create jobs, this popularity is sure to become even more widespread.

COASTAL PREMIUMSAccording to research by Savills, the coastal premium is highest in England at 18.7%, compared to 16.6% in Wales and just 1.2% in Scotland, where the coastline is vast and complex.

In England, the highest coastal premiums occur in the north. The North East (41.3%) and Yorkshire and the Humber (36.1%) carry the highest premiums, although overall prices are highest in the South West (£283,864) and the South East (£266,610).

At county level, Merseyside holds the highest coastal premium, with properties near the sea selling for £375,000, 86.5% higher than those inland. The most expensive coastline is in Dorset, with an average sale price of £393,000 and a premium of 46.1%.

Sophie Chick of Savills research says: “In our survey of people looking to move home last year, we found that the view from a property is the most valued attribute that buyers are looking for, and for many, a sea view is as good as it gets. That means living by the sea comes at a cost, with a clear price premium for proximity to the coast.”

“Counties such as Devon often hold a wider coastal premium than our 100-metre cut off, which dilutes the difference paid for proximity to the coast. On the other hand, counties with remote coastal locations such as Grampian (Aberdeenshire and Moray) have lower premiums, as isolated areas drive down property prices.”

SOUTH WEST COAST RETAINS ‘BLUE CHIP’ HOLIDAY LOCATIONSSt Mawes, Dartmouth, Kingswear and Devon remain consistently popular with buyers. While traditional investors flock to these locations to buy and let out holiday properties, they are also popular with expats who want to keep a foothold in the UK market. Investments are particularly safe in locations that are seeing no lateral development, such as St Mawes, meaning planning is restricted and towns retain an exclusive feel.

That doesn’t mean that there is a lack of new build homes in some of our most popular coastal locations, however. Edward Clarkson, partner at The Buying Solution (West Country), says: “The new build market is strong on the coast, as buyers are keen to snap up holiday homes, but a trend is becoming apparent whereby buyers are not keen

to do extra renovation work on these properties but want a contemporary, ready-to-move-in home”

“A lot of houses will be valued according to the view: the better the sea view, the more money it will cost you. When buying a coastal property, inevitably the buyers want a sea view. Having said this, while a lot of clients request sea views, we get more requests for the estuary and sea view as there is more interesting activity to watch, such as boats going up and down to the sea.”

There is also the suggestion that in-demand coastal locations such as Cornwall have had their popularity boosted by their regular presence on TV screens and in the media.

Nicola Markham, joint managing director of Acorn Blue in Devon and Cornwall, notes that buyers in these areas come from all kinds of backgrounds and for all kinds of reasons. She says: “Buyers are coming here for everything from the landscape through to the food, with new restaurants launching, good weather and great transport connections. We’re seeing a mixture of buyers – generally apartments are bought as second homes and by investors, while houses tend to be second homes for families. Some buyers are downsizers retiring to the county, and properties with uninterrupted sea views are most in demand.”

In terms of up-and-coming coastal destinations for homebuyers and investors, she says: “Newquay is still a popular family holiday destination and is losing its stag night reputation, with new restaurants such as Rick Stein’s recently opening on Fistral Beach.”

LONDON BUYERS SEEKING OUT A HOME ON THE COASTAs average house prices continue to increase, there has been a surge in buyers cashing in their prime London investments for properties by the coast. With the growth of the internet, more people have greater flexibility through working remotely either full-time or part-time, and therefore don’t need to commute into the city five days a week.

This demand has been reflected by properties in up-and-coming areas such as Southbourne seeing demand increase by 25-30% in the space of the last 12 months, and one property recently sold by Capital & Coastal selling for 30% more than a larger property in the same road achieved 18 months earlier.

Michael Riley, managing director of Capital & Coastal, says: “Buyers moving from a two-bedroom apartment in Peckham, for example, are finding they can suddenly afford a four-bedroom detached house with a garden near the coast, and what’s more, their work and lifestyle can be adapted to allow this. Others are taking advantage of increasingly competitive mortgage rates and releasing equity from their primary property to fund the purchase of a home by the sea.”

PSpecial feature supplement

Shore thingWhy homebuyers, investors and downsizers are flocking to Britain’s coast

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

coastal homes 21For the latest on the property market @What_House

Nestled right on the beach at Worthing, The Waterfront is a collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments alongside three-bedroom houses. The development also has an underground car park and landscaped gardens. The 64 apartments have been designed across three floors in the shape of a catamaran facing towards the sea, representing the proud sailing heritage of the area. All the apartments have a private balcony or terrace and the majority boast a sea view. The development has just been named best residential development in the South East in the prestigious RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Awards 2015.

www.kierliving.co.uk; 01903 240362

The Waterfront, Worthing, West Sussex (Kier Living) From £296,995

Living on the edgePerhaps it’s our island mentality, but most of us are drawn to the coast for pleasure and as a home. Here we have a few great options if you’re looking for a home by the sea...

This period home has been completely refurbished with unobstructed views over the beautiful St Ives Bay and Hayle Estuary. The accommodation on the ground floor, comprises a lovely sitting room, Siematic kitchen/breakfast room, sun room, study and laundry, with four bedrooms, two of which are en suite, and a family bathroom on the first floor. The rear garden has been stepped into two terraces together with a patio seating area and offers a wide range of places to sit and enjoy the view. From there, the patio extends to the rear courtyard, which offers a sheltered and private area for relaxation and entertainment.

countryandwaterside.co.uk; 01872 240999

Chy An Carrack, St. Ives, Cornwall (Country & Waterside) £1.25m

Earl’s Green features everything from two-bedroom to six-bedroom homes and has already been extremely popular with buyers from all over Ayrshire. Homes range from the Aversely, especially suited to first-time buyers and priced at £139,995, through to the detached five-bedroom Thornewood, which is ideal for growing families and is priced at £416,000.

Set in the charming seaside town of Barassie, neighbouring the affluent town of Troon, Earl’s Green is the perfect location for families and couples alike. The architects here have designed the development so that homeowners have optimal views to the west, focusing on the magnificent summit of Goat Fell in Arran.

stewartmilnehomes.com; 0845 075 8145

Earls Green, Barassie, Troon (Stewart Milne Homes) £139,995 - £416,000

This luxury development situated at the New Brighton waterfront consists of 24 bespoke, purpose-built apartments, all with sea views across the famous Liverpool Bay.

Homes range from one-bedroom to four-bedrooms, with each apartment benefitting from fully glazed ‘winter balconies’, allowing residents to enjoy the sea views all year long, master bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, AEG appliances in the kitchens and private parking with CCTV coverage. In addition, eight of the homes are spacious duplex apartments with their own rooftop terraces.

New Brighton has good rail links to Liverpool and Chester, as well as the recently finished £60m Marine Point development, which boasts a range of shops, bars and restaurants.

thepromnewbrighton.co.uk; 0151 702 0147

The Prom, New Brighton, Merseyside (Almond Properties) From £195,000

Cornelian Fields, just three miles south of Scarborough, is a charming collection of just 28 three- and four-bedroom luxury new homes, with superior specification, contemporary interiors and beautiful exterior designs.

Each property has been finished to a high specification and benefits from thoughtfully designed open-plan areas, including kitchen, dining and family rooms and combined living rooms and workspaces or snugs, which provide practical living space for the whole family. Underfloor heating to the ground floor also comes as a standard feature in all the homes.

The three and four-bedroom homes, priced from £159,950 to £244,950, are selling fast. All homes at Cornelian Fields are available with the government-backed Help to Buy scheme.

kebbell.co.uk; 01723 586858

Cornelian Fields, Scarborough (Kebbell Homes) £159,950 - £244,950

Chapelton is Scotland’s largest new town, and is located just a short commute from the thriving city of Aberdeen. The new properties here are sure to be popular with buyers, with the dramatic coastline and North Sea close by.

A wide selection of new homes will be available in Chapelton, including everything from two- to six-bedroom properties, with terraces, detached villas and townhouses all designed to be a perfect fit for buyers with modern lifestyles.

Some of the properties here, including the Melfort family home, priced at £377,500 will be released in the final quarter of 2015, while others, such as the stunning six-bedroom Campbeltown, available for £595,000, will be finished in mid-2016.

stephen.co.uk/chapleton; 01738 620721

Chapelton, Aberdeenshire (Stephen Homes) From £249,000

The smart money knows when to move,

we provide the where.

For further information telephone 0131 226 1780 or visit www.amahomes.co.uk

If you’re looking to buy an Edinburgh property valued over £325,000, then now is time to make your move.

From 1 April 2015, Stamp Duty will be replaced in Scotland by the Land & Buildings Transaction Tax, which will benefit purchasers of

lower priced properties, but will cost buyers of higher priced homes thousands of pounds more. Fortunately, at AMA, we have a

range of superb detached family homes and award-winning apartments throughout Edinburgh available to purchase now. If the

prospect of saving thousands of pounds in tax wasn’t enough, many have additional incentives to make your purchase smoother.

Transactions must be completed before the 1 April 2015, so contact Behnam Afshar today on 0131 226 1780

or email behnama@amahomes, to discuss your options and view our range of homes.

Main image:

Caer Amon Apartments, Cramond

Images (clockwise from top left)

Caer Amon, Cramond

Shandon Garden

Springside

Marchmont School

Printhouse, Canonmills

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24 agent insight Find your new home at whathouse.com/new-homes

When the Humby/Davenport family decided to make a lifestyle change and move back to their family roots in Shropshire, their brief was very clear, with their ideal home needing to be within half an hour of Bridgnorth, in a village location and close to a primary school. For Lisa’s daughter, Scarlett, then aged two, the move to a semi-rural location needed to accommodate her future educational needs.

Although extensive online searching produced hundreds of properties, it took word of mouth to give the best direction towards

a shortlist of appropriate schools. Once the field was narrowed down, Lisa and her partner Ian visited some of the village schools rather than relying on Ofsted reports. They were influenced by their first impressions on the school visits and chose Stottesdon Primary in south Shropshire, an exceptional school with small classroom sizes and an adjoining nursery, which became first choice for their daughter.

Caroline Eaton says: “It was only when we met the family in the office that we were able to fully understand their search requirements and engage with advice on the local school reputations. It really highlights that

the internet provides a tool, but for genuine, useful customer service, talking directly to local agents will give greater assistance.”

Having embarked on finding a property in the village within their criteria and then selling their existing property, the process was stressful to ensure that the new term schedule was met. A year on, this anxiety is a distant memory. The couple now have a delightful home with views of the Clee and Scarlett is thriving in a school with a class size of 12.

You can find out more about Berriman Eaton at www.berrimaneaton.co.uk; 01902 326366

CASE STUDY

How to find a property near a good school

1. Plan well ahead and check the waiting list for the appropriate year

2. Don’t rely too much on Ofsted and league tables. Visit a selection of schools and find one that suits your child

3. Look for areas where there are both good primary and secondary schools

4. Check out head teachers and make sure the good ones aren’t planning retirement

5. Check catchment areas and any other criteria that could assist

6. If you are planning for your child to walk to school, check road safety and shortcuts

7. Do a dummy run and check for areas of gridlock at school times

8. Talk to parents at the school gates9. Don’t put all your eggs in one

basket for an area with only one outstanding school – look for an area with a range of good schools

10. Be prepared to pay a premium if near a good state school – but it will be money well invested.

ducation is high on the priority list for many families when they look to move home. Nick Berriman and Caroline Eaton of

Berriman Eaton estate agency, which operates in Shropshire, Wolverhampton and Staffordshire, provide their top ten tips for buying a home near your preferred school.

Ewith Berriman Eaton

Tel : 01923 251799 Email: [email protected] www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk

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.

Specification includes: Fully fitted kitchens with integrated appliances including range

cooker and wine cooler Flooring throughout Contemporary fully tiled bathrooms & en-suites, including vanity

units and heated towel rails Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished handles.

Prices from £650,000

Bentley Court is a new development of nine, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes tucked away in a gated court located off Uxbridge Road in Hanwell, Ealing. All the properties have private gardens and parking making this a fabulous environment for London living.

The development is located next to St Mellitus Church, an imposing Gothic style building of the Edwardian period situated in the heart of Hanwell.

Specification includes Paula Rosa Manhattan kitchens with granite worktop, integrated AEG appliances, flooring throughout, contemporary fully tiled bathrooms and en-suites.

BentleyCourtU X B R I D G E R O A D

T | 01923 251799For more information please contact Lea Valley Homes

E | [email protected] W | leavalleyhomes.co.uk

Prices from

£575,000Sat Nav: W7 3ST

Artist’s impression. For illustrative purposes only

Hopkins Homes builds traditional award winning homes throughout Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex

hopkinshomes.co.uk • 01394 446860

TRADITIONAL CHARACTER,CONTEMPORARY LIVING

If you're searching for a new home with traditional charm as well as all the internal features you desirefor comfortable, convenient and stylish living, look no further than Hopkins Homes and Hopkins and Moore.

We are East Anglia's leading developers, building collections of homes to exceptionally high standards,each one individually designed to complement its setting, be it town, village, countryside or coast.

Call us or visit our website for further information

Inspired by tradition

150392H Composite 340x265_150392H Composite 340x265 27/10/2014 14:58 Page 1

You can keep in the picture with Veyo Chain View

Launching in Spring 2015, Veyo is a comprehensive conveyancing portal that will enable Estate Agents and their clients to view the status of other transactions in the housing chain.

Find out more at www.veyo.co.uk

“The portal will offer greater transparency to everyone involved in the sale and transaction of a property”

I will fix you28 legal Find a great mortage deal at whathouse.com/lettings-advice

ealing with dodgy

cisterns and leaking U-bends are not the most glamorous parts of being a modern landlord but is an

integral part of the job spec that unfortunately is often underestimated. But there are some simple ways that landlords can take the stress out of dealing with tenant repairs.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN PROBLEMS TENANTS SAY THEY FACE?New research from mortgage and loan providers Ocean Finance found more than half of tenants said they had experienced problems with a rented home in the last 12 months, which ranged from poor maintenance to breach of the tenancy agreement.

Some 35% of tenants said even though they had complained to the landlord or letting agent, the repair problem was not fixed. The biggest problem (for 15% of tenants) was the landlord’s failure to fix structural problems including a leaking roof, damp or rotten window frames.

Another 13% of tenants said they had suffered delays in their landlord repairing showers, washing machines

and broken furniture.

WHAT ARE MY OBLIGATIONS AS A LANDLORD?Gareth Shilton, a spokesman for Ocean Finance, says: “One of the problems may be a lack of clarity over whose responsibility it is to maintain different aspects of a property.” Landlords have an obligation to ensure that the property is well-maintained and safe for their tenants to live in.

Repairing obligations will be an express term of the tenancy agreement and are also implied by law. Usually a landlord will be responsible for the following areas:

• structure and exterior of the building including walls, roof, stairs and external doors and windows;

• baths, sinks, toilets and other sanitary fittings including pipes and drains;

• heating and hot water;• gas appliances provided by the

landlord;• electrical wiring;• chimneys and ventilations.

WHAT ARE THE MAINTENANCE OBLIGATIONS OF MY TENENT?There is an obligation for a tenant to use his home in a responsible way which includes keeping the property reasonably clean and ventilated and not causing any damage. Even if the damage is accidental, the tenant will usually have to repair or pay for it. However this is different from fair wear and tear, which is generally the landlord’s responsibility.

The tenant may also be responsible for carrying out minor maintenance, eg checking the batteries for the smoke alarm or keeping the garden tidy. However, the tenancy agreement must be crystal clear and state what their maintenance obligations are.

WHAT DO I DO IF MY TENANT COMPLAINS?If your tenant complains of disrepair, act swiftly and inspect as soon as you can. If you have a maintenance agreement with the letting agent, keep close tabs on what they are doing and ensure they carry out the repairs and report back promptly. Don’t assume that just because the job is done, it’s the end of the matter. Follow through with an email to the tenant to make sure they are happy.

Keep all communications between you and the tenant and make a detailed note of any telephone conversation you have with them. Consider buying a property repairs management app like Fixflo to make life a little easier.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY TENANTS TRASH THE JOINT?The majority of landlords will have taken a deposit before the tenancy starts to cover the situation where the tenant leaves the premises in a less than pristine condition.

Remember to complete a detailed

check-in report and inventory list, before the tenancy starts, which is agreed and signed by both parties. Also take photographs showing the condition of the property. Most letting agents offer an inventory check-in service.

When the tenant moves out, carry out a comprehensive inventory check-out report which again is agreed and signed by both parties. If you intend to make deductions from the tenant’s deposit, you must follow the procedure as set out in your agreement, tenancy deposit scheme and relevant legislation.

GETTING LEGALUnfortunately, despite your best endeavours, a tenant may dispute his obligation to cover the cost of the repair or refuse to pay. If the sums involved are less than the amount of deposit held, the cheapest solution is probably to use the arbitration service of the relevant tenancy deposit scheme.

However if the cost of the repairs is more serious, or alternatively your tenant is complaining that you have failed to carry out repairs, you may need to consider instructing a specialist solicitor to deal with the matter.

There is a special protocol for dealing with disrepair cases that parties need to follow before starting a court case. Your tenant’s solicitor will ask for copies of repair schedules and invoices, which is why it is so important to keep detailed records.

If the matter cannot be settled by negotiations, then you may need to issue a claim in the County Court against your tenant. Alternatively, the tenant could bring a claim brought against you for compensation and/or an order to get the\rks done.

WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?The Deregulation Act 2015 has introduced new provisions to try and tackle so called “retaliatory evictions”, which is where a landlord serves an eviction notice on a tenant who has complained of poor conditions in the property.

Under the new legislation, a landlord will not be able to issue an eviction notice if the tenant has made a written complaint to the landlord regarding the condition of the premises before the notice was issued, and the landlord has not responded or responded inadequately.

Alternatively, a landlord will be prevented serving a Section 21 notice within six months of receiving a notice from a local authority advising him that improvements or emergency remedial repairs are needed to their property.

The provisions will not apply when a property is genuinely on the market for sale or when the tenant has caused the disrepair. However, a landlord will not be able to try to circumvent the legislation by serving a section 21 notice at the beginning of the tenancy as he can at present.

For the first three years, the provisions will only apply to new assured shorthold tenancies granted on or after 1 October 2015 when this part of the legislation comes into force.

Tilly Rubens looks at ways landlords can take the misery out of dealing with tenant’s repairs

D

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

Tel : 01923 251799 Email: [email protected] www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk

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.

Specification includes: Fully fitted kitchens with integrated appliances including range

cooker and wine cooler Flooring throughout Contemporary fully tiled bathrooms & en-suites, including vanity

units and heated towel rails Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished handles.

Prices from £650,000

Bentley Court is a new development of nine, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes tucked away in a gated court located off Uxbridge Road in Hanwell, Ealing. All the properties have private gardens and parking making this a fabulous environment for London living.

The development is located next to St Mellitus Church, an imposing Gothic style building of the Edwardian period situated in the heart of Hanwell.

Specification includes Paula Rosa Manhattan kitchens with granite worktop, integrated AEG appliances, flooring throughout, contemporary fully tiled bathrooms and en-suites.

BentleyCourtU X B R I D G E R O A D

T | 01923 251799For more information please contact Lea Valley Homes

E | [email protected] W | leavalleyhomes.co.uk

Prices from

£575,000Sat Nav: W7 3ST

Artist’s impression. For illustrative purposes only

hanges 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.

“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.”

30 mortgages Find a great mortage deal at whathouse.com/mortgages

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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

Why your mortgage lender might be checking you out on social media

WHAUG *CALA will obtain 2 independent valuations based on achieving a sale in a 4-6 week period, part exchange considered subject to CALA’s purchasing criteria, terms and conditions. Visit cala.co.uk/terms for full terms and conditions and purchasing criteria. Up to 100% part exchange and other incentives available on selected plots, subject to terms and conditions and not in conjunction with each other or any other offer.

WYCHBURY FIELDS, HAGLEY, DY9 9LG CALL 01562 569 771 CALA.CO.UK

Com

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Call to register your interest or we would be delighted

to welcome you to the development.

BUY OFF PLAN, ENJOY FIRST CHOICE COME TO CALA NOW

4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM £460,000

Available with up to 100% part exchange* to help make your dream move happen

Final Phase Release

Computer Generated Image of Stratford Riverside.

Prices and details correct at the time of going to press. Readers are advised to make their own enquiries to verify such information.Whilst every care has been taken in preparing these particulars, Knight Frank and the respective landlords/vendors give no warranty, express or implied, as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein. These particulars are subject to errors, omissions, change of price/rental or other conditions, withdrawal without notice, and any special listing conditions imposed by our principals. Knight Frank will not be liable for negligence, or for any direct or indirect consequential losses or damages arising from the use of this information. You should satisfy yourself about the completeness or accuracy of any information or materials. The information contained herein does not form part of an offer or contract.

1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses

• 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments with stunning views of the City and Canary Wharf

• Iconic 29 storey Tower designed by internationally renowned architects

• Private gymnasium for residents

• All apartments have outdoor space

• Expansive roof garden Stratford Crossrail station opening in 2018

• 10 minutes walk from Westfi eld Stratford – Europe’s largest shopping centre

• Excellent investment opportunity with strong rental yields

2 Bedroom Apartments from £465,000

3 Bedroom Apartments from £680,000

Contact DetailsTelephone:01279 873300

Email: [email protected]

www.weston-homes.com

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whathouse? west midlands july & august 2015

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