LIFE AT
Spring 2022 Issue 02
HOME
–– A magazine exclusively devoted to property buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords ––
TOP SPOT ester Why Colch e is the plac to be!
SUSTAINABLE
LIVING
Create a kitchen that’s beautiful AND eco-friendly
FIRST-TIME
BUYERS The rush to get on the property ladder
Spring into
ACTION
There’s no better time to make your move
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Welcome
Welcome to Boydens’ magazine, Life at Home! David Boyden
Managing Director, Boydens
Contact Us Colchester Branch Aston House, 57-59 Crouch Street, Colchester, CO3 3EY tel: 01206 762244 sales@boydens.co.uk
Sudbury Branch 64 North Street, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 1RE tel: 01787 883700 sudbury@boydens.co.uk Coastal Branch 73 Connaught Avenue, Frinton-On-Sea, Essex, CO13 9PP tel: 01255 851185 frinton@boydens.co.uk West Essex Branch 121 High Street, Kelvedon, CO5 9AA tel: 01376 570335 kelvedon@boydens.co.uk
I hope you enjoyed reading our first edition of this new publication from Boydens, and that you will find this issue similarly helpful and informative. Thank you, too, for those who got in touch with feedback on the first edition, which we are grateful for. The change of season from winter to spring has traditionally seen the emergence of the property market from a period of hibernation. Over the last two years especially, we have learned that the property market (like much of life in general right now) is less than predictable, and we have witnessed sustained activity for some time now. Last year was a bumper one for the property market, which saw demand for property at record highs and at the highest level for more than a decade. It is expected that we will continue to see robust demand even in the face of 30-year high inflation, helped by firm home and rental prices in what remains an undersupplied market and with the UK scrapping all pandemic measures.
03
As always, we are ready to help you with all your property needs and so if this spring is the time you are looking to take that next step on your property journey, we are ready to help you, so please don’t hesitate to pick up the telephone or call in to see one of our fantastic teams in our branches. I hope you enjoy reading this edition of ‘Life at Home’.
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13/04/2022
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Life at Home
Contents 34 06 Homes with style
26
is behind this rise, and will it continue?
Browse our shopping pages for inspiration and ideas for your new home.
11 News
Check out what’s going on in the property market and pick up essential advice.
22 ‘Overpay your mortgage if you can!’ TV property expert Tayo Oguntonade gives his top tips for investing in bricks and mortar.
14 A sizzling property market
26 Being a landlord
Philip Boyden reviews the housing market and looks ahead to the next quarter.
Landlords discuss how to create positive relationships with tenants and tips for success.
18 Getting on the ladder
34 Rustic hideaway
UK house sales to first-time buyers reached their highest levels for 19 years in 2021 – what
LIFE AT
Spring 2022 Issue 02
HOME
er Why Colchest is the place to be!
SUSTAINABLE
LIVING
Create a kitchen that’s beautiful AND eco-friendly
Welcome spring by giving your home a seasonally inspired refresh or harness nature to its fullest.
44 Meet our Colchester team We catch up with our Colchester branch team to find out how they can help you with your sale, purchase, rental or let.
46 All Conquering Colchester
Find out what makes this historic town in Essex such a great place to live, work and visit.
52 A clean sweep
Tenancy Deposit Progressor
FIRST-TIME
BUYERS The rush to get on the property ladder
Spring into
ACTION
There’s no better time to make your move
56 A smooth exit
Boydens Head of Sales & Lettings Paul Buck discusses how landlords can avoid the pitfalls of a difficult check-out.
58 A kitchen for a sustainable life Create a kitchen that’s beautiful, functional and will stand the test of time for your new home!
64 Spring moves
05
Planning a move in the warmer months? Check out some expert advice.
EDITORIAL
EDITOR
ADVERTISING
SALES EXECUTIVE
ART DIRECTOR Lee Thomas
CONTACT Life at Home Magazine, DS Media, 7 Faraday Close, Oakwood Industrial Estate, Clacton-On-Sea, Essex CO15 4TR
CREATIVE MARKETING MANAGER
Advertising Enquiries: 01255 221322 Editorial Enquiries: editor@thedsgroup.co.uk
Chantell Keston, Debbie Taylor CREATIVE
MARKETING
Dominic Littler PUBLISHING
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Clara Deeks Boydens 2 Cover.indd 1
Tammy Mitchell examines what you need to do to end a tenancy on good terms.
Anna-Marie Casas
–– A magazine exclusively devoted to property buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords ––
TOP SPOT
A tiny village provides the idyllic backdrop for a stunning home renovation.
38 Spring to life!
46
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Cover image Laura Ashley Spring Summer Collection 2022. Henshaw Desk £795, Henshaw Pair of Dining Chairs £495, Hepworth Made to Measure Blind from £58. lauraashley.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR Allistair Hunter OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Tracy Norton-Mead
Life at Home Magazine is published by DS Media on behalf of Boydens estate agency. The contents of this magazine must not be reproduced without permission. Life at Home Magazine is available FREE for property buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords registered with Boydens in North Essex and South Suffolk.
boydens.co.uk
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Shopping
Art Deco Mirror, Patrick Ireland Frames, POA This beautiful mirror is from Patrick Ireland Frames, an independent, family-owned business in East Sussex that is one of the UK’s leading producers of bespoke, handfinished picture frames and mirrors. POA, handpainted, framed mirrors start from around £200. patrickirelandframes.com
UGILT Trolley, JYSK, £129.99 Made from durable steel and oiled FSC® hardwood for outdoor use, Danish homeware brand JYSK’s Trolley UGILT offers practicality and style in a sleek, scandi design. Ideal as a compact herb garden or for extra storage, it measures W52 x L89 x H75cm. jysk.co.uk
HOMES WITH STYLE
Get inspired with our curated selection of beautiful furniture, furnishings and accessories...
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Frank Desk in Blue and Natural Pine, Nöa & Nani, £129 Available in four colourways and made with solid pine, the Frank Desk from Nöa & Nani provides a space to study or work while keeping essentials hidden away in the functional drawer. Pair with a striking yellow wall for an eye-catching interior. noaandnani.co.uk
Florabunda Cushion Collection, Annabel James, £54.95 - £64.95 This luxury cushion range is inspired by Voyage Maison’s signature watercolour look featuring flowers, bees and countryside animals. Each design is drawn and painted in-house in Scotland, printed on locally sourced linen and supplied with duck feather pad. annabeljames.co.uk
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Experience the Gosfield Difference Gosfield is an independent co-educational through School set within 110 acres of beautiful parkland, where children have the space to grow, are inspired by the breadth of opportunities and achieve outstanding results within an environment where nurturing relationships are at the heart of all that we do.
admissions@gosfieldschool.org.uk www.gosfieldschool.org.uk Ads.indd 7
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Shopping
Trattino Seaglass Rug, The Rug Seller, from £229 This chic Seaglass in 444804 rug by Harlequin features an abstract, painterly design with a muted multicolour palette offering a spark of style that will last through the ages. Suitable for indoor and outdoor living, and made from 100% polypropylene. therugseller.co.uk
Loop Candle Holder in Terracotta, £69 The perfect way to bring the trendy hue of terracotta into your home, this multi-loop candle holder is made of synthetic resin and consists of loops that are twisted together to accommodate four candles. Also available in grey and black. arighibianchi.co.uk
Wightwick Tiles, Ca’ Pietra, £71.19 / sqm A visit to Wightwick Manor in the West Midlands revealed original tiles made by William Frend De Morgan, a 19th century potter and designer who rediscovered the lost techniques of reactive metallic tile glazing. These ceramic wall tiles, forming part of the National Trust Tile Collection by Sarsten Stone Group, reflect his beautiful work. capietra.com
Lara Towel Rail, MHS Radiators, from £360
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MHS Radiators has added Lara to its range of designer towel rails, boasting a ladder-style design and available in central heating, electric or dual fuel options. Choose from four on-trend finishes, including Antique Brass and Antique Copper, and a range of sizes. mhsradiators.co.uk
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10/13/01/2022 11/ 202116:35 01:22 10/11/2021 14:41
News
Celebrity designer Linda Barker backs campaign to tackle UK’s 50 million litre paint stash Households across the UK are stockpiling enough paint to coat the Forth Rail Bridge 212 times, posing major sustainability and environmental issues, new research from the Royal Society of Chemistry reveals. Despite spoiling in a matter of months if stored incorrectly, 73% of UK adults have admitted to stashing away pots of unused or partially used decorating paint – 43% of which is more than three years old. But what many may not know is paint contains hidden chemicals called polymers in liquid formulations (PLFs). These are often made from fossil sources and are important ingredients needed to help paint stick to walls. Despite containing huge quantities of these specialist ingredients created using non-renewable resources, nearly all (98%) of the UK’s waste paint is either burnt or sent to landfill. Only just over a quarter (27%) of UK adults said they have recycled paint they no longer need and 67% don’t know if their local recycling facility will allow them to recycle
decorating paint. However, 82% of those surveyed said they probably would use a recycling facility if they had confidence leftover paint could be recycled. To help combat this issue, the Royal Society of Chemistry, which has convened a task force to make paint more sustainable, is calling for UK governments to provide better support to local reuse and recycling initiatives, while the companies behind paint brands Dulux, Farrow and Ball, Johnstone’s Paints and Ronseal, are calling for government engagement with the British Coatings Federation’s PaintCare blueprint for a national remanufacturing programme. Professor Tom Welton, President of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said: “We have found that most households have tins of paint languishing in cupboards, sheds and garages – and that while consumers want to be able to recycle, they face a postcode lottery, making it unnecessarily difficult to do the right thing. All this paint contains huge quantities
of valuable polymers in liquid formulations to help it stick to your walls. It’s unsustainable to waste such a commodity, and we’re risking environmental damage through not reusing and recycling, so we’re urging consumers to write to their MPs to help highlight this issue.” Celebrity decorator and TV presenter Linda Barker added: “Decorating was a fabulous way for us to cope with lockdowns during the pandemic, but a direct result of that is we’ve been left with an awful lot of unused paint – and while there are some organisations who offer recycling, coverage across the UK is sporadic at best. “We all have a responsibility to be more sustainable and there is already a huge trend for making more environmentally friendly choices when buying paint, so we know there is a willingness to do this. We urgently need more facilities and ways for people to be able to recycle and reuse unwanted paint so it doesn’t go bad sitting in a shed – or end up incinerated or in landfill.”
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You can always talk to us about the Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax considerations you may need to take into account.
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News
Extensions top list of value boosting property improvements Extensions, loft conversions, new kitchens or bathrooms, real wood flooring, and having a designated work from home (WFH) space have been revealed among the value-adding property features to invest in right now, according to new research. A recent study, conducted by Flooring Superstore (flooringsuperstore.com), analysed live Rightmove listings and collaborated with property experts to unveil which home improvements have the potential to add the most value to a property.
According to the industry experts, homeowners should look to invest in improvements that add to overall footprint of property such as creating extensions or home improvements that modernise, improve the general condition of a home, or add interest – such as creating a dedicated work from home space, installing underfloor heating, or restoring original features. Creating a loft conversion or extension was the most likely improvement that significantly adds value. A well-maintained
garden, new bathroom, new kitchen, and driveway made up the top five places, all with the potential to add significant value. New windows and doors, restoring original features, open plan living, having a designated WFH space, and underfloor heating made it into the top 10.
The average potential percentage increase per home improvement revealed the following:
Rank
Home Improvement
Potential Impact 0n Property Value
Estimated Percentage Increase
1
Loft conversions / extension
Significantly adds value
+17.5%
2
Well-maintained garden
Significantly adds value
+12.5%
=3
New bathroom
Significantly adds value
+10%
=3
New kitchen
Significantly adds value
+10%
=3
Driveways
Significantly adds value
+10%
6
New windows and doors
Adds value
+8.8%
=7
Restoring original features
Adds value
+7.5%
=7
Open plan living
Adds value
+7.5%
9
Designated WFH space
Adds value
+7.25%
10
Underfloor heating
Adds value
+5%
11
Real wood floors
Adds value
+4.5%
=12
Artificial grass in garden
Adds value
+3.5%
=12
Balcony
Adds value
+3.5%
=12
Real grass in garden
Adds value
+3.5%
=15
Approved planning permission
Adds value
+2.5%
=15
Smart home wiring
Adds value
+2.5%
17
Bath in bathroom (not just shower)
Adds value
+2%
=18
Working fireplace
Neither adds nor damages
0%
=18
Outstanding planning permission
Neither adds nor damages / Potentially damage value
0%
=18
Solar panels
Neither adds nor damages / Potentially damage value
0%
13
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Property
A sizzling
market PROPERTY
A busy 2021 in the local property market has continued into the start of 2022 with plenty of activity keeping us busy. Philip Boyden reviews the housing market and looks ahead to the next quarter.
14
I can hardly believe that we are already a quarter of the way through the year, and what a busy year 2022 has been so far for both the sales and lettings markets. The sales market has continued to see consistent growth with increased agreed sale prices in the first quarter. We have also witnessed an increasing number of sales agreed over guide and asking prices. Bearing this in mind, it is still advisable to be realistic with pricing. If a property is released at too high a price, it will sit on the market and lose that ‘new to market’ buzz. At Boydens, we are finding that releasing a property at a realistic lower guide figure is optimal with a higher bracketed ‘aspirational figure’ more often than not resulting in a higher eventual selling price. So, what is driving these continued increased sale figures? I believed (as did many others) that we would witness a slight correction in the market or ‘flat-line’ from the end of the stamp duty holiday last year, but in practice this has simply not been the case. Driven by high levels of demand in our area, the number of ready, willing and able buyers is currently
outstripping the housing stock available. I cannot see this changing unless lenders/valuers become cautious on pricing and begin down-valuing agreed sales for mortgage purposes. Where are these buyers coming from? We are seeing a lot of potential purchasers moving up the A12 corridor, mainly from the Romford and East London areas. We are also experiencing a number of parties coming from over from the other side of the Dartford Crossing where, although prices have risen in the area, buyers can get comparatively more for their money here. Out-of-area buyers are less familiar with the local market compared with locals who know the ‘hotspots’ and have historically gravitated towards them. Prices in the most desirable locations from three to five years ago have risen, but perhaps not as quickly as the new ‘up and coming’ locations, which are now very much on the radar of buyers. Many interested parties registered with us are already under offer and in a complete chain, so they are under pressure to find a property. This can then have the impact of creating some urgency to put in a high bid
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Property
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Property
“We are finding that releasing a property at a realistic lower guide figure is optimal with a higher bracketed ‘aspirational figure’ more often than not resulting in a higher eventual selling price.” as most have missed out on other properties, having themselves been out-bid by others.
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In addition, commuters are more receptive to properties located further afield from popular railway stations. Not having to commute five days a week and only having to go into the physical office for only part of the working week has broadened the radius of many property searches, and so brought new locations into the picture. The lettings market is seeing a strikingly similar story with high demand from tenants looking for good quality family homes in this area, but a distinct lack of rentable stock to meet this demand. This includes renters who are looking to up-size from their one or two-bedroom flats as well as clients wishing to move into the area from further down the A12 corridor, and has created upward inflationary pressure on rental values being achieved. Properties are in demand across the board, from onebedroom flats to five-bedroom family homes, with previously less popular locations also now renting out well due to the current supply and demand issues. So, what is causing this lack of stock on the market?
With a large property management portfolio under our control, we have historically seen tenants who may have resided in a flat for, say, two to three years look to move on into a house with some private space. What we are increasingly seeing is that due to the increased rents for all types of properties, tenants are staying put and therefore not freeing up their property to be re-let. In addition to this, a number of landlords have taken advantage of the leap in property values and, also deterred by increased legislation/taxes introduced in the last few years, they have offloaded their investment properties, thus exacerbating a lack of supply. In conclusion, the first three months of the year have continued in the same vein as the end of 2021 with little sign of the market slowing down in this area. With demand showing no signs of waning, the only way I can see a change to this is if the lenders toughen their valuation and lending criteria and so, if you are considering a move, the market is fast moving, but we are ready to guide you every step of the way. Philip Boyden is a Senior Property Consultant, based at Boydens Colchester Branch.
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21/04/2022 16:49
Finances
GETTING ON THE
ladder
UK house sales to first-time buyers reached their highest levels for 19 years in 2021 – what is behind this rise, and will it continue? Boydens Marketing & PR Manager Paul Howe explores the issues.
I
18
t is always heralded as a sign of a healthy property market if first-time buyers are playing an active role. That was certainly the case in 2021 where, according to Yorkshire Building Society, first-time buyer volumes rose by 35% despite strong price growth. The average price for a first home increased by 9% in the past year – from £199,251 in 2020 to £216,836 in 2021. Despite this, first-time homebuyers in the UK accounted for a record £86.1 billion worth of property market value in 2021, up £27.3 billion from 2020 – according to GetAgent. What was behind the rise? Low borrowing costs and government guarantees for mortgages are likely to have helped
many people onto the property ladder during the last year. According to Chris Pargin, of Pargin Financial Solutions, the variety and availability of mortgage products (including the reintroduction of 95% loan to value mortgages) was a key driver in this area. During the pandemic, low deposit mortgages were removed completely from the market with buyers requiring a 25% deposit to be able to move forward. This was just not a realistic prospect for many first-time buyers and so demand dwindled. Thankfully for them, that did not last long, but it did take some time for buyers with a 10% deposit to be able to gain 90% loan to value mortgages again. When the government finally reintroduced 95% loan to value mortgages, many first-time buyers were then in a position with enough savings to be able to reinvigorate their property search.
The stamp duty holiday, which ended on 30 September 2021 in England and Northern Ireland, has been credited with helping to fuel a boom in the market. First-time buyers already benefited from stamp duty relief on the first £300,000 of the purchase price, but the additional relief on the value between £300,000 and £500,000 will have led to savings (and reduced borrowing) in many cases, particularly benefiting new buyers in pricier areas such as London and the South-East. Meanwhile, much reduced spending during the national lockdowns meant some would-be first-time buyers were able to save up a larger sum for a deposit far quicker than perhaps they had anticipated. Savings were made on a reduced social life, holidays, commuting and its associated ancillary spending (coffees, sandwiches etc), and some also saved money on rent by moving back home with parents.
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Finances
“Londoners bought more than 112,000 homes outside the capital in 2021, which witnessed the biggest ‘great escape’ from London since 2007.” Is London still calling? Londoners bought more than 112,000 homes outside the capital in 2021, which witnessed the biggest ‘great escape’ from London since 2007 as the coronavirus pandemic drove people to seek more space to comfortably work from home, according to London estate agent Hamptons.
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The impact of this move has affected the geography of not only the commuter belt, but also smaller towns and cities across southern England and has driven up demand (and prices) in those areas – a phenomenon we at Boydens have experienced. The switch to flexible working has encouraged Londoners to buy homes further outside the capital than in pre-pandemic times – a desire for more open space being a key consideration among those relocating. Buyers leaving the capital are able to get more for their money with a record number of London renters now buying their first home in a more affordable location owing to the rise of flexible working coupled with affordability barriers. First-time buyers from the capital
First-time buyer tips for 2022 • Speak to a broker who will be able to look at different mortgage options such as 95% loan to value lending and first-time buyer exclusives. Often these can include features like free valuations and cashbacks to help with your purchase.
have combined with ‘local’ first-time buyers resulting in a high demand for all types of property across the area from this demographic. With increased demand in the region (and the resultant impact on house prices), this has in some instances meant that first-time buyers have had to compromise with smaller properties or different locations to meet their budget in what remains very much a dynamic and fast-moving sellers’ market.
boydens.co.uk
Boydens 2 Ladder.indd 20
• Consider different locations for your initial purchase – you may get more for your money or be able to better match your budget remembering that this is a first time, not necessarily forever, purchase. • You won’t normally need to send your deposit to your solicitor until just before exchange (on average around three months). This can give you another three pay packets to save up for solicitors’ fees and the costs of moving, so it is worth keeping in mind. • Ensure that payslips/bank statements/ID are all registered to the correct address and that you are on the electoral role as this will save a great deal of time further down the line.
20/04/2022 17:35
Whether buying or selling We can make it happen
Our expert residential property team are here to support you Freehold | Leasehold | Investment purchases | Shared ownership purchases Property transfers | Re-mortgages | Landlord and tenant advice | Lease extensions movinghome@tsplegal.com
01206 574431
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11/04/2022 22:31
Interview
‘Overpay
your
MORTGAGE if you can!’
We chat with Tayo Oguntonade, property expert, investor and presenter of Channel 4’s BAFTA-winning show, The Great House Giveaway, about his own experiences of getting on the ladder and top tips for investing in bricks and mortar.
22 What first made you interested in the property market? I studied Economics at University, so I was always big on investments and making the money you save work for you. I always knew I wanted to invest in property as it offers a roof over your head as well as a great place to park your savings! Tell us about your first experience of buying a property… I bought my first property around seven years ago now and it was quite an experience at the time. I saved as much as I could and decided I would buy wherever my money would take me. That took me to a town about 30 miles away from home. I had to scrape together every penny so there weren’t any extra funds to do any work, but the house was in a condition that was acceptable to move into.
We’ve seen you on Channel 4’s The Great House Giveaway, where two strangers are given a house bought at auction to renovate and make a profit – what are the biggest lessons to be learnt from this? 1. Forgetting to keep an eye on the budget and time. It’s so easy to spend frivolously in a renovation – when you start to run out of time the spending can really spiral out of control. 2. Remember you are not renovating a house you want to live in, you just want to sell it. So, really consider if underfloor heating, gold accents and smart home features are worth it! 3. Finally, sometimes it’s unavoidable, but it’s worth noting a breakdown in communication is almost always going to impact profit.
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Interview
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20/04/2022 17:44
Interview
Which part of a property (inside or out) gets you most excited when making an investment or starting a renovation project? It has to be the kitchen. I think naturally there is a lot more you can do with a kitchen and there are many different styles. It’s no wonder it can have such a big impact on the price. I think the living room is equally as important because it’s where we all spend time together as a family after a busy day. Which simple home improvements do you think can add most value to a property? There are many simple home improvements you can go for that won’t cost too much either. Common ones are improving lighting in a room, repainting a room, adding a feature wall, adding some plants, adding a mirror or two to make rooms look bigger, and finally my favourite – refreshing your kitchen by adding new cabinet doors, handles or even using a vinyl cover to give it a new look.
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You’re a fully qualified mortgage adviser – what’s your biggest piece of advice for someone taking out a mortgage? If you have the means, try and make overpayments. Most lenders will allow you to overpay 10 per cent of the total balance, which is plenty. Overpayments will come straight off the capital, which means you will pay less interest and increase your equity quicker. You founded the online platform BrickzWithTipz with your wife, Antoinette – what made you launch it and what sort of advice does it offer? Antoinette and I used to spend hours on end speaking to people on the phone about their property journey and giving tips. In actual fact, BrickzWithTipz existed way before the social media pages, but probably in a more inefficient manner. Social media platforms now allow us to reach so many people at a time and our audience pick up tips on all aspects of property from savings to mortgages to interior design. Which is your favourite style of property interior and why? At any one time, I have a million things running through my mind at once. I love a minimalist interior design style to offset this! I feel like the space and the simplicity puts my mind at ease.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP DOS AND DON’TS FOR BUYING OR SELLING A NEW HOME? DO ask the vendor why they are selling DO research the area as it’s one of the
only things you won’t be able to change
DO ensure you lean on professional advice that you have already paid for. If you have any queries, make sure you ask your mortgage advisor or solicitor DON’T view the house once – always ensure you view twice before buying and preferably at different times of the day
DON’T be put off by things that are easily changed (lime green paint and the previous owner’s ugly sofa!)
DON’T expect your new home to tick every single box you have. One of the only ways this is possible is to build from scratch. Don’t worry though, you can tick the remaining boxes when you move in and create your dream home! Instagram @brickzwithtipz
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Landlords
landlord BEING A
Boydens has a long history within the property market dating back to 1852. During this time, we established ourselves to be a leading agent in terms of service and experience, looking after a large portfolio throughout Essex and Suffolk. We have the pleasure of working with many fantastic landlords who provide quality properties for tenants. Here, some of those landlords share with us their experiences, how to create positive relationships with tenants and tips for success.
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Sarah Stapleton: ‘A good tenant is worth their weight in gold’
are essential to me as I know they will guide me as they have done so with annual rent reviews, for example.
How long have you been a landlord and what made you want to become one? I have been a landlord for over 15 years now and wanted to invest some funds at the time, and so chose to invest in the property market. I was looking for a long-term investment at the time, and the buy-to-let sector provided that. I own an apartment in Colchester, though I don’t live in the town, and so my relationship with my agent is even more important as I am physically not close by.
I think it is also important not to be greedy as a landlord. Consistency is the key and long-term tenancies with trusted tenants provides peace of mind.
What do you think it takes to be a good landlord? I think it is important to be a responsible landlord and for me that means I rely heavily on my agents (Boydens) to guide me and act on the advice they provide me regarding maintenance issues. This includes responding to recommendations of the Property Management Department, and so my good working relationships with key people (Brian Purvis, Tina Dove and Patricia Field)
The other piece of advice I would give is to not become too attached to your property. I don’t love my rental property in the sense that I view it as an investment, so the emotional attachment isn’t a factor. How can tenants ensure a positive relationship with their landlord? For the majority of my tenancies, I have not been particularly familiar with the tenants themselves (I prefer it that way, personally). I do, however, feel that tenants should listen to the advice given once a maintenance issue has been reported in order to avoid unnecessary charges in the case of simple issues such as blocked sinks, for example, which can be dealt with by the tenants themselves.
boydens.co.uk
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Landlords
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boydens.co.uk
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Landlords
“Reliable, long-standing tenants are the most desirable, so use the services of a trusted agent to recommend and filter the best tenants for you.”
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boydens.co.uk
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Landlords
What have you learnt most from your time as a landlord? As with any property, location is the key factor – the more favourable location, the better the rental yield. I would advise any fellow landlord to keep on top of the bills – be business-like and keep the property running and maintain standards. I always take the opportunity of a break in tenancy to carry out any redecoration to maintain rentability. Also, listen to your agent who will advise on the current rental values in order to maintain your investment. What advice would you give to someone starting out as a new landlord? Renting a property is a long-term commitment and as long as you truly view your investment this way, you will always make money. In this industry there are no quick returns, but if you are prepared to commit to the investment, it will reward you over time. I am fortunate that little can go wrong with my property, and so I would advise that you consider the type of property you are investing in to begin with as some will be costlier than others. I also think it is important to trust your agent to provide good quality tenants rather than simply place a tenant quickly to minimise void periods. A good tenant is worth their weight in gold, so make sure they are a quality tenant recommended by your trusted agent.
Margaret Crowe: ‘An agent like Boydens will save you hassle’ How long have you been a landlord and what made you want to become one? My family background is in the building trade where our family firm was constructing houses in the Colchester and wider area. In the 1980s, the business moved into build to rent, which was not as common a concept as it is today. Ultimately, the building firm took a change of direction and diversified from building the homes to managing those already built, which is what we do today with a portfolio consisting of a mixture of commercial and residential properties. What do you think it takes to be a good landlord? There can be a lot of issues being a landlord and it is noticeably more complex now than when we first began owing to the increased regulations within the sector. That said, there are two principles I have always stuck to – keep your properties up to scratch and ensure you have good quality tenants by working closely with your agent.
How can tenants ensure a positive relationship with their landlord? I prefer to keep the tenant/landlord relationship a professional one and so recommend using managed services from your agent as intermediaries to help manage the relationship and maintain harmony. What have you learnt most from your time as a landlord? Reliable, long-standing tenants are the most desirable, so use the services of a trusted agent to recommend and filter the best tenants for you. I would not recommend managing your properties yourself as using an agent (such as Boydens) will save you hassle and make your life easier. If you are in the market for a sizeable investment, I would recommend purchasing a block if possible so that all areas of maintenance are under one area (and, quite literally, one roof). What advice would you give to someone starting out as a new landlord? Weigh up the cost of the property against the rental yield, considering renovation costs. Property management and rental is a long-term investment, so commit to it for the long term and you will see the return. You need to be fully aware of Capital Gains Tax rules and just remember that tenants are your business, so keep them as happy as possible.
Gary Cocks: ‘Good communication is key’
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How long have you been a landlord and what made you want to become one? I have been a landlord either in the UK or abroad since 1994. The initial reason for the investment was to find a long-term, safe and easily disposable asset, unlike a pension scheme, and one at that time could easily be transferred to siblings or family. My plan was also to use income from rental proceeds and capital appreciation to provide for further investment to grow the portfolio. What do you think it takes to be a good landlord? Having a global overview of your portfolio and a balance of diverse properties is important, as is the maintenance of those properties to a high standard. Responding to legal requirements is vital in terms of repairs and a general comprehension of the condition of each property.
boydens.co.uk
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Landlords
Communication with all parties is extremely important, from managing agents and tenants to contractors and financial professionals. Finally, a good landlord should get to know their tenants. How can tenants ensure a positive relationship with their landlord? Communication is key and it is important that the relationship is seen as one in which landlord and tenant work together, and not against each other, as a form of yin & yang. What have you learnt most from your time as a landlord? As a landlord, every day there is an issue to be resolved. You need to be organised and so you should ensure that you are in control of all your finances, accounts and tax returns. Understanding a broad base of property maintenance terms and requirements so that no one can deceive you is another useful tip. Today and at this present time, and especially in the last five to six years, you have to accept losses and profitability and that capital growth is no longer guaranteed. Finally, I would advise you to choose your managing agents wisely and manage them.
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What advice would you give to someone starting out as a new landlord? Only buy property for cash as a Sole Trader or LLP and if you are within a Limited company think hard and long before taking on the conditions, all the time considering restrictions and your end game strategy. It is important to fully understand the full requirements to be a landlord, from accounting, mortgages, business plan, maintenance, legislation, and tenants’ rights. It is also wise to anticipate a high degree of involvement whether on one property or 50! Finally, this is a long-term investment and not for the faint-hearted or those not used to dealing in reasonably large quantities of funds as you will need a cash reserve at all times for unforeseen circumstances.
John & Gill Nicholson: ‘Maintaining properties well is vital’ How long have you been a landlord and what made you want to become one? We have been landlords for over 20 years now,
having bought our first property back in 1995. We wanted to broaden our assets by renovating properties ourselves which would then also give us an income in our retirement. We now own six properties. What do you think it takes to be a good landlord? It is important to maintain a good relationship with the tenant whilst remaining firm but fair when dealing with their requests. Keeping well maintained properties is vital, as is using Boydens’ maintenance team to react quickly and efficiently to any snags raised. As landlords, we like to be proactive, for example, visiting all the properties after the storms in February 2022 and repairing fences where required. All our tenants have our personal contact details and know that they can always contact us in an emergency. How can tenants ensure a positive relationship with their landlords? The prompt reporting of any snags and problems will help avoid further damage to the property, which is essential as issues such as a slow leak can create serious damage over time. Maintaining the garden, cutting grass and shrubs and so keeping up good appearance for other residents is also very important. Finally, keeping Boydens informed of any issues that might affect the tenancy is vital on the part of tenants. What have you learnt most from your time as a landlord? It is best to use Boydens to eliminate any future problems. We have been guided by their excellent Lettings Department, which ensures good vetting and selection of tenants to avoid potential nightmares as we encountered before using Boydens. We also appreciate the importance of keeping the property in the best condition and thoroughly checking and maintaining between lets. What advice would you give to someone starting out as a new landlord? We’d advise to rent through an agent like Boydens and take an active interest to ensure your rentals run smoothly. Also, research the market you are investing in, HMO’s (House in Multiple Occupation) or single tenants for example in order that you are fully up to speed.
boydens.co.uk
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FRAMLINGHAM
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Landlords
Mrs L: ‘It really pays to have Full Management services’
do view my tenancies and the management of the relationship between landlord and tenant as a business transaction. Working full time, I like to be involved as little as possible and so I rely on Boydens to deal with the tenants in this regard.
How long have you been a landlord and what made you want to become one? I have been a landlord for over 15 years. I became a landlord after I married and, rather than sell my own house, I decided to rent it and see how it went being a landlord; I now let three properties.
What have you learnt most from your time as a landlord? There is a misconception of wealth when it comes to landlords. Much of the value realised does not come from the rental, but from the value in the property itself which, for me, is part of my retirement fund.
What do you think it takes to be a good landlord? I would advise any landlord to take out Full Management services on the property to remove as much worry as possible. It is also important to keep the property in good condition (both the tenant and the landlord) and to fix things quickly. How can tenants ensure a positive relationship with their landlord? As a landlord, the property is my investment and so tenants respecting that and keeping the property in a good condition will always be seen as a positive. I
What advice would you give to someone starting out as a new landlord? Unless you are prepared to manage everything to do with the rental, it really pays to have Full Management services or else the rental process will dominate your life. Also, I would recommend new landlords purchase a newer property rather than an old one as, although it doesn’t necessarily follow, the maintenance is likely to be less on a newer property. Flats in older properties tend to have higher management fees.
“Unless you are prepared to manage everything to do with the rental, it really pays to have Full Management services.”
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If you are thinking about becoming a landlord, or extending or moving your portfolio, contact our lettings experts below:
Coastal Branch: Matthew Hayward 01255 853911 matthew.hayward @boydens.co.uk
Colchester Branch: Brian Purvis 01206 771213 brian.purvis @boydens.co.uk
Sudbury Branch: Angela Jeffery 01787 888601 angela.jeffery @boydens.co.uk
West Essex Branch: Jules Cain 01376 570335 jules.cain @boydens.co.uk
boydens.co.uk
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11/04/2022 22:37
Real Homes
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Rustic
hideaway
A tiny fishing village in Skåne, Sweden provides the idyllic backdrop for the latest home renovation by food stylist Nora Eisermann and photographer Laura Muthesius, whose Our Food Stories blog has a 1 million Instagram following. The project showcases a stunning kitchen featuring unpainted oak cupboards inspired by mid-century English interiors like the traditional gentlemen’s haberdashery.
boydens.co.uk
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Real Homes
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Real Homes
“The home is literally brimming with original features – some were already there waiting to be loved again.” Fishing boats in the harbour, white sandy beaches, and a proliferation of spring apple blossom...
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The tiny fishing village in Skåne, Sweden provides the dreamy setting for the latest home makeover by Berlinbased influencers, Nora Eisermann and Laura Muthesius, whose Our Food Stories blog includes Designtales, where they share their passion for interior design. The pair are absolute experts at finding incredible houses in special locations and renovating them with sympathy, love and style. This latest project showcases a stunning kitchen by renowned British furniture maker, deVOL. “The home is literally brimming with original features – some were already there waiting to be loved again, some were sourced especially, you simply cannot tell which is which, a true testament to their impeccable taste and careful choices,” says deVOL’s Creative Director, Helen Parker. The kitchen is the centre of this airy Scandinavian home; ubiquitous whitewashed floorboards and ceilings, an eclectic mix of vintage and mid-century furniture, all brought together with deVOL’s Haberdasher’s cupboards.
“The immaculate cupboards are slender and elegant, but have a nostalgic feel that ensures they fit perfectly into a vintage home without feeling too new or contrived,” explains Helen. “The slim glazed panels on the island, drawers and wall cupboard give light, reflection and beautiful vignettes. “The aged copper worktops shimmer with the reflections of the unique and very handsome woodburning stove which gives this room the most incredible warm atmosphere. The marble sink and the palest of pink marble worktops add some luxury and take this rustic home to another level; comfortable, beautifully warm and inviting, but also quite glamorous and chic.” And finally, there’s the Aga. Just imagine a spring weekend here – after a day exploring the beautiful surroundings, kicking back with logs on the fire and sourdough in the oven. Simple perfection. The Haberdasher’s Kitchen by deVOL, prices start from £30,000. Imagery courtesy of Our Food Stories. www.ourfoodstories.com Instagram @_foodstories_ www.devolkitchens.co.uk
boydens.co.uk
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Conveyancing
Probate
Wills
LPA
Personal friendly legal advice from a trusted Solicitor in the heart of the Colchester area We are fully committed to providing the very best in legal advice for all our clients
01206 767 112 hello@martinelliott.com martinelliott.com Audley House, Berechurch Hall Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 9NW
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Home
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Main image, MissPrint Jungle Rainforest Wallpaper, £87 per roll (52cm x 10m) missprint.co.uk; right, a botanical bedroom, Instagram @zepelfabrics, courtesy of wethrift.com
boydens.co.uk
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Home
SPRING TO
life!
Welcome spring by giving your home a seasonally inspired refresh before you put it up for sale or plan a full makeover that harnesses nature for your new abode once you move in. Embrace nature in the bedroom
Data analysts have revealed what bedroom interior trends we’ve been adding to our inspiration moodboards ahead of the warmer months.
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Using Pinterest trends data, online shopping discount platform WeThrift (wethrift.com) has put together a list of the top search increases for bedroom inspiration. Topping the list is botanical-themed bedrooms with a whopping 100 per cent increase in searches, followed by statement headboards, panelling, blue bedrooms, upcycled furniture, shabby chic and neutrals. Nick Drewe, trends specialist at the company, says: “This year, it seems that as spring rolls around we will be looking to reconnect with nature when it comes to bedroom decor. After a cold and dark January, the first signs of spring, from snowdrops to daffodils, can bring us to hope that winter is finally behind us, so it’s easy to see why the botanical theme is the top of everyone’s decor inspiration right now.
boydens.co.uk
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Home
“As part of this trend, we will see people embracing the great outdoors, by working in green and earthy tones to their furniture, walls and bedding. But that’s not all; florals are a great way to achieve the botanical look that will impress your guests whether it be prints on the wall or more daring wallpaper.” Traditional, bold and statement headboards will also be making their mark over the spring, with a search increase of 88 per cent since December on Pinterest. “While traditional and supersize headboards have been a thing for a while now, the style has evolved to more elaborate designs that become pieces of art in their own right and really complete a room,” explains Nick. “Sticking with the natural aesthetic of botanics, one trend that has made its way into mainstream design is wooden panelling. Wood panelling became a hot trend during the lockdown, as people across the country turned to social media to learn the tricks of the trade.”
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It seems that the trend is set to continue throughout 2022, with an 86 per cent increase in searches on Pinterest since the end of last year, as we look to interior inspiration for that spring refresh.
Sustainable choices are also a high priority
“With the world more conscious than ever before about going green, eco-conscious initiatives have started popping up in our home, including everything from upcycling furniture like nightstands to being more sustainable when it comes to bedding choice,” observes Nick. “A slightly more niche trend to embrace this spring is perhaps a more ‘zen’ aesthetic. Gen Z are lovers of everything spiritual, so it’s only fitting that zen interiors are making their way into our bedrooms this year. “To create a room that feels peaceful and tranquil, try some more neutral shades with pops of colour here and there that will give it a bit of character. The key with this is theme is to keep the clutter at bay so that your space feels peaceful. It’s therefore worth investing in some storage containers or a storage bed frame that will help you keep everything out of sight.”
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Home
“Traditional, bold and statement headboards will also be making their mark over the spring”
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TOP 10 SPRING BEDROOM INTERIOR TRENDS ON PINTEREST (INCREASE IN SEARCHES)
01 Botanical Bedroom 100%
02 Statement Headboard 88% 03 Panelling 86%
04 Blue Bedroom 83%
05 Upcycled Furniture 80% 06 Shabby Chic 70% 07 Neutrals 64%
08 Zen Bedroom 58% 09 Accent Walls 53%
10 Black and White Bedroom 47%
Main image, Laura Ashley Aviary Wallpaper £42, from the Spring Summer 2022 Collection lauraashley.com; top left, a zen bedroom, Instagram @ salaarchitects, courtesy of wethrift.com; bottom left, Purlfrost Blossom Printed Window Film, from £11.50 purlfrost.com
boydens.co.uk
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Home
A HOME FOR ALL SEASONS Creating a space that marries comfort with productivity will continue to be essential this year, as working from home continues for many. Our office and home lives are now housemates rather than distant neighbours, so to ensure your home is as on-trend as it is clutter-free, Alysha Alli, who heads up housebuilder Redrow Group’s interior design team (redrow.co.uk), shares five trends…
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Remain resourceful
Living more sustainably will continue to be at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds, with the climate crisis featuring regularly in the news. We all want our homes to feel ‘current’; however, as we move through 2022, it’s about balancing our desire to stay on trend by creating a scheme where the essential elements, like kitchens, bathrooms, larger furniture or the colour of your walls, will still look great in five to ten years’ time. The key is through additional styling, such as soft furnishings, albeit cushions, curtains, or rugs, which can be easily upgraded as trends come and go.
Declutter
There is also a growing trend towards homes looking more sophisticated by adopting a minimalist approach to interiors. Decluttering your home by purchasing less new items is an easy way to create the illusion of a minimalist interior and can quickly transform forgotten or previously hidden elements, such as vases or ornaments, into statement, focal pieces.
Outdoors in
With more of us spending time indoors, bringing the outdoors in through earthy colour tones, such as sage greens and pastel blues, can create a seamless transition between the home and garden – perfect for long hours spent in your home office. Adding plants to your living space will instantly create a calming atmosphere, while purifying the air and boosting your productivity, to help make your home a more ecofriendly and healthier place to live and work in.
Colour boost
Spending extended periods of time at home has highlighted how essential it is to surround ourselves with colours that makes us feel good and complement our varying needs throughout the day. Where once shades of grey dominated the interior design palette, 2022 will continue the growing trend for moodboosting colours. Bolder shades, such as rich mustard yellows and deep fiery oranges, work well for providing permanent visual reminders of happiness. Practically, you may choose these colours for soft furnishings, in the form of accent cushions or a leading edge to a curtain, or perhaps as a feature wall. Regardless of the season, shades of blue are set to dominate home interiors throughout 2022. Lighter blues can instantly make us feel calm, centred and content, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms or bathrooms, while darker shades can help ground a space and work well with warm wood furniture to create the perfect balance of cold and warm colour tones.
boydens.co.uk
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Home
Main image, Caffe Latte, Cosy Living Room by Asmaa Kamel caffelattehome.com; far left, a broken-plan living space featuring a wall-mounted Smart Deco hood from Franke in Green, £556 franke.co.uk; middle, Crown Mellow Sage Matt Emulsion, from £14 for 2.5L crownpaints.co.uk
Fluid curves
As we move through 2022, many designers are proposing an alternative aesthetic to the conventional straight line, choosing instead to favour a curvier look. When compared with uniformed, straight lines, curves are deemed more playful and fun. Introducing objects such as oversized vases or eclectic ornaments, which adopt unusual shapes, can provide focal points around the room, particularly when strategically placed where harsh lines dominate the space, such as kitchens or dining tables. For those looking to be more daring, exposing brick will break with your room’s smooth walls, and will instantly provide a distressed look that is rich in pattern and texture.
Often overlooked is lighting, which provides the greatest asset in helping to create a zoning effect to separate areas through different shades of light that can illuminate or shadow various areas. This technique will cater to each individual member of the family and their needs, while creating a relaxing and inviting ambience for all to enjoy. For homeowners with space to spare, room dividers are also increasing in popularity, with many bookcases and wicker style screens providing a creative solution to regain boundaries between working days and relaxing evenings.
Broken-plan living
Make a statement
“With kitchen, dining spaces shapeshifting daily to home offices, the need to compartmentalise the rooms’ various purposes should not be underestimated if you are to create a healthy boundary between work and home life…broken-plan living is revolutionising the open-plan layout by providing simple solutions to divide the space to allow for flexible use throughout the day.
For a vase to make a statement, choose one which will contrast with your current design choices. Perhaps a bold, alternative colour, or a shape which contrasts with your current furniture. This will help make sure that your vase claims its space, affirming its original flair to serve as a standalone feature in the room.”
Throughout 2022, it remains a priority to be able to separate specific areas of the home so they can fulfil their intended use effectively. Open-plan living has proven a popular design decision for many new build properties or home renovations over the last few years. While this layout provides ample space, perfect for families, postpandemic living has meant this communal space is too often being shared for multiple reasons, simultaneously.
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For those looking to make a big impact on a small budget, statement vases have the power to transform an interior in an instant. Vases can often be overlooked as an accessory, and simply used to showcase flowers. However, opting for an usual shape or oversized design is a really simple and effective way to introduce a new colour, texture or pattern into your room – regardless of whether you fill it with flowers or not.
boydens.co.uk
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Team spotlight
Meet our Colchester team! We catch up with our branch team in the historic town to learn more about their jobs and how they can help you whether you are looking to sell, let or for Block Management services.
boydens.co.uk
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Natalie Abrahams Sales Manager, Colchester Branch natalie. abrahams@
Natalie leads our Colchester Sales team and has extensive experience in the estate agency industry stretching back many years. She has been part of the Boydens family for more than 20 years. Natalie is extremely approachable and always ready to lend a listening ear. About me I started with Boydens as a Saturday trainee and progressed to become Colchester Sales Manager. Over my 20 plus years with Boydens, I have grown to know the Colchester area exceptionally well. My family built a third-generation carpentry business in the North of England and so from an early age I was educated in building and property. Before coming to Colchester, I spent seven years working overseas in the property market. My partner and his family
are long established Colchestrians and I myself have been involved in many community events including Colchester’s Half Marathon. My day to day My day is always varied, which I enjoy as it makes my job more fun and less predictable. I will begin with emails, reviewing any overnight requests for valuations and organising my team for the day ahead before moving on to my main focus, which involves attending valuations of properties for sale (including probate) and meeting new clients. In addition, a typical day will see time spent preparing properties ready for sale, including taking photos and preparing write-ups. What I love about my job I love meeting people and seeing new places, and my job is always extremely varied. In my time working for Boydens, I have been fortunate to sell homes several times over! I have also seen clients who bought their first home from me, and then gone on to move further up the property ladder as they have gone on to have families.
It is always rewarding to see what people do to their homes once they have bought them and I get a great deal of satisfaction from being able to genuinely help someone. The feeling of intense satisfaction when handing over the keys to a happy buyer at the end of the process is something which I still genuinely love, even after all this time. I can help you with… If you are considering selling your home, I can advise on the best way to do this to achieve the best possible price. I am always happy to chat and give advice on how to make your home as attractive as possible to buyers, so don’t hesitate to call. Brian Purvis Lettings Manager, Colchester Branch brian.purvis@ boydens.co.uk Brian is hugely respected and extremely well known in Colchester for his knowledge of the area and of the lettings industry, given that he has been
boydens.co.uk
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Team spotlight
in the estate agency business for over 30 years and was born and bred in the town. He oversees the day-to-day running of Boydens Colchester lettings operation. About Me I joined Boydens in 2015, having always worked in and around Colchester. I am a keen rugby and football fan and enjoy supporting both Saracens and Ipswich Town. Outside work, I am a keen family man who lives locally with my wife and children. I am also a proud grandfather. My day to day A typical day will see me carrying out my team meeting in the morning in order to set out the priorities for the day before moving on to carry out viewings, valuations and attending properties to advise on revamping them for reletting. I also take new properties onto the market and so some time is always spent in preparing those for promotion with new photographs and write-ups. Colchester is a busy lettings market. Properties are in high demand and so I am constantly monitoring market conditions and advising landlords on the best returns. What I love about my job Even after so many years in the business, I still enjoy taking on a new property, helping and advising the landlord before handing over the keys to a happy tenant. Keeping tenants and landlords happy is what I am here to do, and it still fills me with great satisfaction when we have matched up tenant and landlord perfectly, which is our aim each time. I take pride in customer care and so, if I can keep
clients happy and reduce stress, I consider that a job well done. I can help you with… If you are a landlord or are looking at investing in the property market in Colchester and the surrounding area, I can advise you on the best rates for the best return. I am also happy to assist you if you are considering a property purchase and would appreciate some advice on where to purchase and how to best prepare your property for letting. Alex Kane Head of Leasehold & Estate Management, Colchester Branch alex.kane@boydens.co.uk Alex leads a team of eight, managing a varied portfolio consisting of a wide range of properties across Essex and Suffolk including: • A number of converted historical buildings, including mills, hotels, school buildings, malt houses, and a brewery • Many purpose-built modern blocks of flats ranging in size from 6 to 56 units • Several modern private estates consisting of a mix of luxury houses and apartments • Properties and developments located in town centres, villages and many coastal sites About me I was born in Colchester, raised in Coggeshall and educated at
Felsted. Therefore, familiarity with the local area helps me relate to our clients and their needs. I joined Boydens in 2014, shortly after graduating with a BSc Building Surveying degree from Brighton, working as a Property Manager before being promoted to Head of Leasehold & Estate Management in 2020. My day to day My day to day role is extremely varied. I spend the majority of my time supporting my team and dealing with new business enquiries. Our portfolio and reputation continue to grow, and I spend an increasingly large amount of my time writing proposals for the management of new sites and clients. I also continue to manage a small portfolio of properties. What I love about my job I thoroughly enjoy working for Boydens. The best part of my job is working alongside my team who are a friendly and lively bunch, all knowledgeable in their field and able to work on their own initiative. We care about offering a good quality service and ensuring that all in our team are supported, which brings me great satisfaction.
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I can help you with… I can help if you are looking for a unique, professional and local approach to Block Management. We offer a single main point of contact and tailored service. Boydens is a niche Leasehold & Estate Managing Agent offering different levels of service to suit our many satisfied clients’ needs, as demonstrated by the fact that 75% of recent new business contracts have been as a result of existing client recommendations.
boydens.co.uk
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Location focus
All Conquering COLCHESTER
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Location focus
With the help of our friends at Colchester Borough Council, we take a look at the spectacular history of Britain’s first city, which today is a regional powerhouse for culture and tourism and well on the road to becoming a major hub for business, tech and innovation. Colchester is one of East Anglia’s finest historical towns. As Britain’s First City, there is much to discover in the town centre itself and further afield across the wider beautiful Borough of Colchester. One of the star attractions is Colchester Castle, built on the foundations of a huge Roman temple destroyed by Queen Boudica
and is Europe’s largest Norman keep. Today, the museum is packed full of ancient treasures from Colchester’s past. The Borough of Colchester comprises 135 square miles of diverse countryside, towns and villages, all with unique identities and popular destinations such as the Dedham Vale, nestled in the heart
of Constable Country, and Tiptree, where renowned jam maker Wilkin & Sons has its factory and tearooms. Uncover a town brimming with history, a diverse mix of shops and restaurants, attractive coastlines and riverside locations, picturesque architecture and quintessentially English rural landscapes immortalised by famous artists.
Imagery by Rodger Tamblyn, courtesy of Colchester Borough Council
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boydens.co.uk
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Location focus
Interested to know the value of property to sell or let in Colchester? Call our local experts on 01206 762244
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boydens.co.uk
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Location focus
Something for everyone Colchester is a beautiful town with a host of attractions ranging from its 900-year-old castle to its highly regarded zoo, all of which make it great place to live. But there are also plenty of hidden attractions to discover beyond its big-ticket attractions.
The Castle Museum, alongside Hollytrees Museum and the town’s Natural History Museum, explore the town’s famous history. All three museums are located within two minutes’ walk of each other within the town centre and The Castle is a perfect starting point to get to grips with Colchester’s fascinating past. Charting over 2,000 years of life in Colchester, it was built on the ruins of a Roman temple destroyed by Boudica, a queen of the British Iceni tribe who led an uprising against the conquering forces of the Roman Empire in AD 60 or 61. This, alongside many other stories, are brought to life through a number of fantastic experiences, interactive exhibits, and tours that can be found throughout the museum.
Indeed, hands-on history is what Colchester is all about, whether it is following Britain’s oldest and longest town wall around the town centre, walking through the impressive ruins of St Botolph’s Priory or discovering civil war musket holes in battle-scarred walls. The streets of Colchester offer just as much history as the objects in glass cases within its museums.
Old and new
But Colchester certainly isn’t stuck in the past. Firstsite, the town’s contemporary art gallery, is a curved, golden, space-age building that regularly hosts exhibitions by world-renowned artists and household names. Even those sceptical about the merits of modern art can find something to enjoy within its walls – perhaps via a trip to its in-house cinema, or by exploring the community events and craft fairs that take place there regularly. Even here, Colchester’s rich history pops up in the form of a Roman mosaic re-laid where it was found, in the floor of this 21st century marvel. Meanwhile, across town the Mercury Theatre has recently
undergone a multi-million-pound redevelopment to bring the building up to the same quality as the work it’s been producing for years. Tucked behind it is Colchester’s much-loved Arts Centre with its programme of touring shows that perfectly balances the popular with the challenging. Exploring the town centre wouldn’t be complete without a spot of shopping either and Colchester doesn’t disappoint in this regard, with well-kept shopping arcades housing the big-name high street stores, while smaller lanes and roads host independent retailers and boutique stores. You won’t be stuck for a bite to eat either – a great mix of eateries throughout the town offer something for everyone.
Beautiful borough
Further afield, the town’s selfstyled ‘Beautiful Borough’ offers Colchester Zoo, which is ranked just outside the top ten zoos in the world, and you will need a full day to fully explore its extensive grounds.
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A top place to live • Colchester has been the fastest growing place in Essex – and one of the fastest in the UK (ranked 17th) – according to The Office for National Statistics (ONS), which found that the borough saw 8.2 per cent population growth between 2013 and 2018. • In mid-2020, Colchester’s population was estimated to stand at 197,200. • Less than an hour by train from London, a 45-minute drive to Stansted airport and 20 minutes from Harwich international port, Colchester offers a great base for business opportunities as well as family life. • Colchester also offers a wide array of good and outstanding nurseries, primaries and secondary schools – two of the best schools in the country for GCSE and A level results are located here, and the town is home to the renowned University of Essex, as well as a number of further education institutions.
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Location focus
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If you’d rather experience a more homegrown variety of nature, the Dedham Vale and Constable Country are ripe for exploration to the north of Colchester, while Mersea Island lies to the south.
famous jam manufacturer Wilkin & Son runs its farm and factory, and you can stop by one of the several local Tiptree Tearooms to sample their unique, little, scarlet strawberry jam as part of a delicious cream tea.
The Dedham Vale is Essex’s only Designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while the saltmarshes on the mainland around Mersea are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, providing unique habitats for native species and migrating birds alike. Nature reserves such as Abberton Reservoir and Fingringhoe Wick are run by the Essex Wildlife Trust, meaning there’s no shortage of scenic country walks around the flat Essex landscape to enjoy.
There’s plenty of other hidden treasure too, from the country’s tallest Tudor gatehouse at the impressive Layer Marney Tower, to a first-class heritage railway at the East Anglian Railway Museum, neatly positioned beside the sizable Chappel Viaduct.
Mersea, of course, is also famous for its seafood and particularly its oysters, and you’ll find a fine selection of seafood restaurants on the west of the island, kept stocked by the local fishermen. But the other local delicacy can be found in nearby Tiptree, where world-
A bright future
As much as it’s a town steeped in history, Colchester is always looking to the future, and its ambitious Northern Gateway will become a thriving location for living, playing, working and doing business. Located to the north and south of Junction 28 of the A12, the site is gradually transforming into a new sport, leisure, business and residential destination of regional significance.
Forming part of this major development is the £28.8 million, 76-acre Colchester Sports Park – boasting one of the largest cycle tracks in the East of England – which opened in 2021. Work is also under way on a £65 million, 200,000 sq ft Leisure Park, due to open in autumn 2023. This will include a 12-screen Cineworld, seven restaurants, two drive-thru restaurants, a 90-bed Travelodge hotel, Hollywood Bowl bowling alley, Puttstars indoor golf centre and a Jump Street climbing centre, as well as high-quality landscaped piazza, parking for 750 cars and a rapid charge electric vehicle charging station. Also in the pipeline are 350 new homes, a healthcare hub, and 45,100 sqm of commercial floorspace. The whole development will benefit from an integral digital network providing ultra-fast broadband to local homes and businesses. For more information about Colchester, visit www.visitcolchester.com
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BOX OFFICE: 01255 686633 (Opt 1)
20/04/2022 16:36
sweep Renting
A CLEAN
Ultimately, the way to a swift and full deposit return is to ensure that your rental property is returned in the same condition in which it was received. Tenancy Deposit Progressor Tammy Mitchell examines the issues and what you need to do to end a tenancy on good terms.
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oving out of a property can come with its stresses – however, moving out of a property and then worrying about your deposit being returned can further add to that stress. Historically, there have been many horror stories of landlords keeping deposits without reason, although since the introduction of mandatory deposit protection schemes in April 2007, the whole deposit return process is thankfully far more regulated. Recent statistics revealed by the Tenancy Deposit Service show that 88 per cent of all deposit claims relate to cleaning. Any deduction from a deposit can be frustrating for the tenant, but also the agent and landlord as work then needs to be completed, potentially delaying any future let from commencing. In an ideal world, an agent and landlord would much prefer for
the deposit to be returned in full as agreeing deposit expenditure takes considerable time and effort.
needs to be cleaned. If in doubt, contact your agent for guidance as they will be only too happy to help.
So, what can a tenant do to ensure that their deposit is returned? I could write a whole book about this; however, I am going to focus on the cleaning aspect due to so many claims relating to this area.
What will the landlord or agent be looking for? The landlord or agent will be expecting you to return the property in the same condition in which it was provided, less fair wear and tear. Dirt is not deemed as fair wear and tear and therefore it is important that you ensure that the same level of cleaning is completed to avoid any proposed deductions from your deposit.
Where to start? The first thing to do is to pull out a copy of the inventory from when you moved in and review, to establish the cleanliness of the property at the start of your tenancy. If you are unable to locate your inventory, speak to your agent or landlord and they can send you a copy. How do I know what needs to be cleaned? The inventory will detail the level of cleanliness of the property, and this should be used as a guide to what
Do I need to have my property professionally cleaned? Since the Tenant Fees Act 2019, it is not lawful for agents or landlords to insist that you pay to have the property professionally cleaned. What you will be required to do is return the property in a professionally cleaned manner. Reference to the inventory will highlight the level of cleaning that is expected from you.
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Renting
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Real Renting Homes
Can I just clean it myself ? This is of course an option, however, far too many people underestimate how long it takes and how difficult it can be and, in the rush to return the keys, items are left and ultimately a proposed deduction from the deposit to address such points is then made. It is recommended, if possible, that a cleaning firm be appointed to clean the property throughout. This can save an enormous amount of time, reduce stress, and be cost-effective as it avoids the need for proposed deductions and ongoing delays with the return of your deposit. Your agent should be able to suggest a reputable local cleaning firm who you can appoint. A little expense now can save a considerable amount of stress and time later.
If you choose to clean the property yourself, here are some helpful hints based on our experience:
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1. Start by looking at the inventory and make a cleaning list. 2. Start cleaning your property a couple of weeks before moving out. This may sound daft, but it will save you considerable time and make the final clean a lot easier and quicker by breaking down a larger task. 3. If you are going to clean carpets, make sure that this is the last thing you do to avoid walking over clean flooring. 4. Use the correct material and equipment. An old toothbrush will help get in those awkward corners. Descaling products and a scouring sponge will also help. Alternatively, if you wanted to keep things
natural, a mashed-up onion and baking powder mixed and applied with a sponge works wonders removing water marks from shower screens. White vinegar is another great product for removing mould and mildew as well as water marks and, of course, far kinder on the environment – as long as you don’t mind smelling of vinegar afterwards! 5. Try to work from top to bottom and ending at the front door; this will then avoid the need to keep going back and forth to the rooms that you have already cleaned. 6. Ensure that you defrost fridge-freezers, turn them off and leave the door ajar to avoid them smelling.
7. Clean washing machine seals and detergent drawers. 8. Don’t forget that if you need to clean your oven, it is likely that the products that you use may need to be applied for a number of hours to be effective, so this needs to be considered in your timing. 9. It is common that a clean is undertaken and the tenant forgets things like skirting boards and the inside of kitchen cupboards, so make sure that you cover these points to avoid a claim. 10. Lastly, don’t forget the outside of the property, such as windows and doors. All need to be wiped down to remove dirt and cobwebs and again will remove the need for a claim to be made.
boydens.co.uk
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20/04/2022 18:11
WELCOME TO GM CAR SALES OF COLCHESTER A WIDE RANGE OF QUALITY USED CARS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
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We at GM Car Sales are a local family run business with over 25 years experience selling Quality Used Cars in Colchester, Essex and the surrounding areas, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Sudbury and Clacton. We offer a friendly, polite, straight forward, non-pushy Customer Service. We have up to 70 vehicles on sale, based at our 95-97 Magdalen Street, Colchester, CO1 2LA location.
T: 01206 799966 www.gmautosales.co.uk
Ads.indd 55
20/04/2022 16:37
Advice
A smooth exit Boydens Head of Sales & Lettings Paul Buck discusses how landlords can avoid the pitfalls of a difficult check-out. You will have read the preceding article from my colleague, Tammy Mitchell, who is our qualified and experienced Deposit Progressor, concerning the steps a tenant should take to ensure deposits are returned at the end of a tenancy. We now switch focus to what a landlord can do to protect their position.
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The first thing I suggest is to have your property managed by a reputable agent, such as Boydens of course! Check-outs can be a minefield in terms of what can and cannot be claimed from a deposit, the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’, and then the time needed to secure quotes, organise works, enter into negotiations with tenants, and – if required – submit a detailed dispute to evidence your claim. You will undoubtedly have better things to do with your time, and so a reputable agent will have experience and qualifications behind them to ensure that any deposit dispute is completed in a fair manner. This task cannot be taken for granted as any difficult check-out can not only impact a landlord financially in terms of making matters good, but also increase the void loss due to the lack of rent coming in while work is being undertaken.
So, as I have mentioned, appointing an agent is the best approach, but here are a few tips that can also help:
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Make sure the ingoing inventory is detailed with lots of photographs. Ideally, this would be prepared by a qualified inventory clerk to ensure an unbiased approach.
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Make sure your tenant is given an opportunity to go through and agree the content of the inventory.
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Appoint an inventory clerk to carry out the check-out again, ensuring an unbiased approach.
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Send a copy of the checkout to the tenant promptly.
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Ensure your tenant is given notification of any wish to make a claim against their deposit within 10 days of you taking possession of the property.
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Keep the tenant informed as to progress with any quotes and be open to negotiations with your tenant.
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Keep talking to your tenant as communication is essential, and then record that communication in writing in order that both sides are clear as to what is happening.
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Ensure your claim is fair and avoiding betterment, as any claim for betterment will go against you should it become necessary for the matter to be referred to an adjudicator.
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Acknowledge and accept that there will be fair wear and tear at the property, however, dirt is not classified as fair wear and tear.
Whilst I cannot guarantee that those adopting basic principles will avoid any form of dispute with your tenant, it will certainly put you in a positive position to evidence your claim and ultimately ensure that any deposit award via an adjudicator is fair.
To find out more about Boydens’ Rent and Legal Warranty, email paul.buck@boydens.co.uk
boydens.co.uk
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20/04/2022 18:12
Thinking of selling or letting this year? If you are considering a change, why not take advantage of our special offers, exclusive to readers of ‘Life at Home’ magazine?
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Ads.indd 57
11/04/2022 22:43
Sustainability
Creating 100% climate-friendly kitchen living interiors: Shown here, Rotpunkt’s Memory SL Zero kitchen with island unit door fronts in Black and integrated wall units in combination with Old Forest Oak as a contrast design detail. From £12,500 plus VAT.
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Daval’s Renzo Kitchen, FSC Certified, 100% recycled materials: Charred Japanese Wood and Character Oak Tobacco. From £10,000 plus VAT.
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21/04/2022 16:52
Sustainability
life A kitchen for a sustainable
Create a kitchen that’s beautiful, functional and will stand the test of time for your new home!
As part of your sustainability journey, it is important to consider how long a new kitchen will last, how easily it can be repaired and what materials it is made of. “Fortunately, there are a wealth of innovations out there to help ensure your kitchen has a long and happy life despite any wear and tear,” says Simon Bodsworth, Managing Director of interiors specialist, Daval (daval-furniture.co.uk). “There’s no doubt that the kitchen is the hardest-working room in the house, which is why you need to find out about the finishes available. Leading manufacturers offer a wide assortment and one of the most exciting areas of development is the self-repairing kitchen. Check out the new types of foil coating on the market, which you can easily repair yourself in the event of a scratch or scuff, so you don’t need to call out an expert at an extra cost.” Recycling materials is one of the easiest ways to live more sustainably, so make sure you do your homework when investigating the components of your kitchen. Premium kitchen furniture makers have been pushing new boundaries by using recycled elements within their ranges.
“The beauty of this approach is that these parts can in turn be recycled – so this virtuous circle can continue,” points out Simon. “It really does pay to find out as much as possible about the options out there so that you can choose a kitchen which is affordable and eco-friendly. In my experience, you won’t need to skimp on style or function to have a beautiful and sustainable kitchen.”
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Renewable wood alternatives will prove their worth as an eco-friendly option that does not compromise style or quality. “Innovative solid wood veneers and replica laminate door solutions have become a great way to introduce authentic texture in the modern kitchen and become a sustainable choice that still delivers on quality of materials,” comments Matt Phillips, Head of UK Operations for kitchen manufacturer, Rotpunkt (rotpunkt.co.uk). “Given the latest research shows that homeowners across all demographics want the look and feel of a real-wood kitchen without the overall weight and price implications, maintenance and environmental impact, I believe climate-friendly design and manufacture is only set to rise in popularity with furniture helping to minimise carbon footprints and promote a reduce, reuse and recycle approach to interior design.
boydens.co.uk
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Sustainability
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Dream kitchen: A bespoke painted kitchen from The Used Kitchen Company
boydens.co.uk
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Sustainability
Make a celebrity kitchen your own Not only can you own a designer kitchen at a fraction of the price, but you can also do it sustainably. The Used Kitchen Company’s Looeeze Grossman explains how… It’s no shock that most of us think our dream kitchen is unachievable due to a number of factors such as cost and space. So, owning a celebrity kitchen must be impossible, surely? But what if there was a way you could own a celebrity kitchen for a fraction of its original cost and even better than that, save it going to landfill? Well, there is. For most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, and for good reason too. It’s a room we use almost every day for family meals, dinner parties and in more recent years, it has also been known to double up as office space as many of us work from home. It is no surprise that many are wanting to take on a new kitchen project and give this new multi-use space a revamp. A striking kitchen will not only be the envy of all your friends, it will also add value to your property when it comes to selling your home, especially if you have a one-of-a-kind celebrity kitchen. So how can you bag yourself a celebrity kitchen at a fraction of the cost? Well, it is a well-known fact that high end – let alone celebrity status – kitchens are expensive, with the world’s most expensive kitchen, the opulent ‘Fiore di Cristallo’, complete with crystal chandeliers and worktops, costing a jaw-dropping £1.2 million. However, the dream of a formerly owned celebrity kitchen can be within your reach. The Used Kitchen Company offers beautiful, bespoke, ex-display, used or cancelled order, high-end kitchens from top British designers like Mark Wilkinson and Tom Howley, along with the ultra-modern German engineered kitchens such as Siematic, Bulthaup and Poggenpohl – all for a
fraction of their retail value. What’s more, some of these approved used kitchens were even owned by well-known celebrities, footballers and famous chefs. With hundreds of kitchens to choose from, many with top-of-the-range appliances and worktops, more than 39 brands, ranging from £1,750 to £50,000, it makes sense to have a look before your kitchen designer arrives to give you the big sell. Not only will you be able to buy your dream celebrity kitchen for less, you’ll also be helping to prevent the hundreds of tonnes of kitchen waste that still sadly ends up in landfill.
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Adopting a recycled kitchens means you can have the top-of-the-range appliances you’ve only ever dreamt of owning, instead of high street alternatives. Top-of-the-range quartz or granite worktops and cabinetry that’s set to last. Not keen on the colour? Opt for a painted kitchen and simply repaint to what works for your new home. The savings are huge and not only to your pocket, but the environment as well. A used kitchen will also add credibility and value to your property’s price, and all these reasons make it a seriously smart decision. Looeeze Grossman is the founder of The Used Kitchen Company where you can sell your old kitchen or buy a kitchen for up to 70 per cent off RRP. www.theusedkitchencompany.com
boydens.co.uk
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Sustainability
Do your bit for the planet and upcycle! 62
Giving a renewed sense of purpose to existing items by upcycling is a great way to reduce the amount of waste we produce, and there are myriad places to find bargains and inspiration. “Furniture that boasts upcycling potential can often be cheap to buy or even sourced for free from people who are unaware of its possibilities,” says Elaine Penhaul, interior expert and owner of national home staging company, Lemon and Lime Interiors (lemonandlimeinteriors.co.uk). “While asking family and friends to pass on their preloved furniture is a great starting place, if you are looking for something more, then specific local charity shops or Facebook marketplace will have a plethora to choose from – you’ll be amazed at what gems you can uncover.” Pinterest is a great starting point for inspiration and, if you know the piece you want to upcycle, it is worthwhile searching online for blogs that give step-by-step instructions.
“Upcycling has endless possibilities for all items around the home – for example, you could repurpose your old China tea set into a collection of ornate candle holders, or you could transform used baked bean tins into a herb garden,” explains Elaine. “To help keep your costs down, sanding and painting your item of furniture will give it a new lease of life under a limited budget and time. Just a tin of paint is needed to create an upcycled masterpiece – you could even use leftover paint that is lying around in your garage.” Similarly, you could use half a roll of wallpaper, left over from a room redecoration project, to transform the inside of a cupboard or the panels on the front of a wardrobe. Pine furniture is a great material for upcycling, according to Elaine, adding: “Pine dining chairs, tables, wardrobes and bookcases can be transformed with any colour, whether you prefer something neutral and understated or bright and bold to create a focal point in your room.”
boydens.co.uk
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20/04/2022 18:14
Sustainability
GOING GREEN
As homeowners turn to eco renovations to help combat the energy crisis, property tax specialist Cornerstone Tax looks at the challenges ahead. With energy prices soaring for millions of households in the UK, homeowners are searching for solutions to ease the increased cost. The rise was caused, predominantly, by multiple energy suppliers going out of business amid a global energy crisis. Price caps were set to rise by 48% on April 1st – this follows a £139 annual rise which was introduced last October. The increase in energy costs has caused considerable stress for numerous households throughout the UK, but for some, the solution could be turning green. In the UK, homes are responsible for a fifth of UK carbon dioxide emissions, prompting the Government to pledge that by 2035 every residential property should have an EPC rating of C or above as part of its long-term plan to tackle climate change. By carrying out green renovations such as loft insulation, solid wall insulation, ground source heat pumps and double glazing, homeowners will make an estimated £890 savings every year. However, the cost of installing these features is a substantial obstacle for homeowners with costs in the thousands. According to the English Housing Survey, the total cost of upgrading a D-rated home is estimated to be nearly £6,500. The easy option for upgrading your home to become more energy efficient would be to buy a newbuild property, with government figures showing 84% of newly completed properties being given an A or B rating. It is estimated, however, that 30% of homes in England and Wales are still rated E, F or G.
A new landmark study from Cornerstone Tax has found that while making homes more energy efficient is a priority for homeowners – with 36% saying it is a priority for them in 2022, many are finding the price of doing so a major obstacle. As many as 45% have looked into making their home more energy efficient but found it too expensive without government support. The research found that 12% are planning to move house to live a greener life, while 45% would prefer to refurbish or extend a current home. “With the energy crisis in full flow, I believe that households throughout the UK will be seriously considering making their property more energy efficient to combat these costs,” says David Hannah, Principal Consultant at Cornerstone Tax. “By making your home energy efficient, homeowners will save money in the long run and contribute to the UK's sustainability targets also. “However, the initial costs of making green renovations to your home is still a big obstacle for homeowners to overcome. Perhaps in the future the government can provide much needed support to homeowners who are looking to refurbish their home to make it more eco-friendly. There’s evidently huge demand for greener homes. The benefits of making your home more energy efficient can be substantial. You will feel a sense of pride in helping towards sustainability goals and it will cut costs in the long run.” ctatax.uk.com
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moves Sponsored content
Spring
Those long, cold, dark winter nights are in the rear-view mirror, and the next stop is warmer days. But, before you book that summer holiday and jet off in search of the sun, could you be about to move house? Perhaps, unsurprisingly, the most popular time to move home is in the warmer months that fall within spring/summer. But why is this, and should you opt for a removals company or go it alone?
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Sponsored content
W
hy move home in spring or summer? Some people love winter months or the colours on trees associated with autumn, but you’d be hard pushed to find someone who wants to move house in the dark, snow, cold or rain. When it comes to the warmer months associated with spring and summertime, days are longer, and the weather is warmer. In short, summer conditions are better suited to moving house. You have less
risk of a monsoon ripping through boxes and turning your breakables into breakages (although this is still the UK, so we can’t guarantee a rain-free summer!). Sure, people may still load up cars, dial Ubers and carry soggy boxes through terrible conditions, but ultimately that’s your property you’re putting at risk.
Why use a removal company? Moving house can be physically and mentally exhausting. The moment you finally get your keys in your hand is something that sticks with you forever. But, the mountain is only halfclimbed at this point. Now, you’re faced with the task of moving all your worldly belongings from point A to B.
The better alternative is to turn to experts and hire a removals company to take care of it all, such as AnyVan, for example!
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Sponsored content Before you download whichever van hire app is trending in the app store and spend a day or three going it alone, you may want to consider a removals company, which typically works out as the cheaper option. Leaving it to the experts means that with just a few taps on your smartphone, dedicated movers can come to your house, pack your stuff for you and have you moved in and set up in your new place. Removal companies consist of people who do this day in and day out, meaning there’s nothing they haven’t moved or a situation they haven’t encountered. At our very core, AnyVan has set out to remove the stress, high costs and time consumed by a house move. Equally, we’re the greenest way to move, as we offset all our emissions. When it’s put to you like that, it almost seems like a no brainer, right?
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Considerations Sure, moving in these warmer months sounds fantastic, you may be thinking. “Well, why doesn’t everyone do this?” you may even ask yourself. Of course, there are a few things to consider before planning your relocation. Namely, for those with little ones, moving is stressful enough without worrying about what the kids are doing. So, keeping them occupied and safely out the way can become a challenge. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this time of the year is the busiest for removal companies. So, if you’re looking to make the most of the weather and move house, plan your move as early as possible, book ahead, put the kettle on and let us do all the heavy lifting.
Top 7 Spring Decluttering Tips Spring is in the air, and for some, this traditionally means an opportunity to carry out an annual refresh of your home. But what if you’re also about to move house? If you’re adding a move into the mix, you should view this time as the perfect opportunity to declutter. The hardest part of any journey can often be taking the first step, so with that in mind, we’ve put together seven tips to help with your declutter: Get rid of broken appliances Where possible, we always advise repairing rather than replacing. But, sometimes that isn’t possible – dispose of appliances correctly and safely – to keep costs of your move down. Say goodbye to worn-out items We’re all guilty of holding on to things a little too long, but if you’ve got shoes, clothes or even children’s toys that are past their best – now is the time to finally bid them farewell. Part with items past the expiration date It’s great to stock up on medicines, cosmetic products, or food items – but are you really going to use those paracetamol two years past their use-by date? Cosmetics and condiments also expire. Don’t lug them into your new home! Time to refresh your book collection Knowledge is power and all, but
if you’ve got a stack of books collecting dust, why not donate them to a local charity? Vacuum pack those winter clothes away Warmer days are coming, so you can finally put those bigger, warmer clothes away in a spacesaving way. Plus, that’s one less thing to unpack at your new home. Check the contents of your freezer Freezers can become something of the land that time forgot for food. You’ll have to empty it before moving anyway, so don’t waste this opportunity. Get rid of the stuff that’s sat there for a little longer than you may care to admit! Time for a wardrobe refresh? We’re almost all partial to those spring/summer sales and lines, but do you truly have the space for more clothes? Why not rejig and then rehome some pieces from your wardrobe to charity? You may not have worn something for years, yet it would be a staple for someone else. And it’s better for the environment! As ever, more can be done when it comes to decluttering – and moving! However, you don’t have to go through this alone. Here at AnyVan, we’re here to help you move from your current address to your upcoming dream home. Why not let us help you?
anyvan.com
After all, you’ve earned it.
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Spring into your new home
If you have children and are hoping to move this year, spring is an ideal time to put your house onto the market as you’ll be likely to move in the summer holidays. The property market tends to pick up prior to the summer holidays. This is mainly due to parents moving out of term time but also moving to change the school catchment that their children are in.
Conveyancing Rated Excellent Review Solicitors have rated Attwells Solicitors as being excellent value for money. We’re also rated 4.7/5 on Feefo with over 1,500 clients reviewing our service.
Visit www.attwells.com or call: 01206 766333 Ads.indd 67
20/04/2022 18:33
Moving Home? 100,000 movers have already rated us as excellent on Trustpilot. Could you be next?
All removals are carbon neutral
Locally based drivers, to reduce
Live vehicle tracking technology
An instant quote, with no need for a home visit
Low prices that cannot be beaten
Call AnyVan on 0330 808 1412, or visit anyvan.com
Rated excellent based on 100,000 reviews
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