Fisher German Source 2018

SOURCE2018 fishergerman.co.uk

LOCAL AREA GUIDES Practical information and recommended recreation

CREATING THE BEST FIRST IMPRESSION Ensure your home has kerb appeal

GARDEN TRENDS Blending interior and exterior to make the most of your home

34 Tiddington – A beautiful

Grade II Listed 4 bedroom family home

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IN THIS ISSUE In addition to a fabulous collection of properties we’ve included guides to the key areas we operate in.

Barlaston

10 Market Harborough

32 Thame

18 Stafford

36 Banbury

22 Chester

40 Worcester

28 Ashby de la Zouch

46 Bromsgrove

The perfect house for entertaining on a grand scale

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First impressions

The old adage “first impressions count” is perhaps seldom more apt than when selling a house

31 Pillerton Hersey – Impressive farmhouse with land in tranquil setting

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The latest garden trends

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49 Stamp Duty explained

Welcome to our latest edition of Source.

I hope you enjoy browsing the properties featured in the magazine. Whilst this is only a small selection of the houses we have on offer it does give you a good flavour of our residential offering, showcasing country cottages, new homes, village and country houses.

We have separate publications for many of our rural properties featuring agricultural land, farms and estates. We cannot feature everything, sadly, but to see instructions spread over more than 20 counties plus residential lettings and a large portfolio of commercial properties do please visit our website.

As this magazine goes to press our new website is about to be launched. This market leading site is a very exciting business development for us presenting some great functionality

and introducing some new services including our online auction platform which offers vendors and purchasers amazing potential for transacting properties.

The residential market is relatively stable and presents a good time for buying and selling against the backdrop of low borrowing costs.

Sadly the market in 2017 was characterised by low volumes and in some areas the number of overall transactions was down by over 15%.

On a positive note, at Fisher German we had a record year, bucking the trend with sales numbers up by 11% and I am optimistic about the year ahead despite Brexit looming in the distance. By being agile and attentive we offer exceptional service to our clients which creates outstanding results and brings them back to us repeatedly.

I am very proud of our teams around the country and the results they are achieving and I hope we can also help you with your property needs.

I am very proud of our teams around the country and the results they are achieving‌

Stuart Flint Head of Agency Fisher German LLP stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 3

Your key contacts...

Ben Longstaff

Matthew Allen

Ashby de la Zouch

Banbury

07917 064657

07810 378190

ben.longstaff@fishergerman.co.uk

matthew.allen@fishergerman.co.uk

Sam Skinner

Christian Sanders

Bedford

Bromsgrove and Worcester

07810 378188

07799 697791

sam.skinner@fishergerman.co.uk

christian.sanders@fishergerman.co.uk

Michael Harris

Rachel Ashworth

Chester and Knutsford

Doncaster and Newark

07870 961711

07855 077152

michael.harris@fishergerman.co.uk

rachel.ashworth@fishergerman.co.uk

Joy Brankin-Frisby

Victoria Oldham

Market Harborough

Stafford

07918 677574

07970 430519

joy.brankin.frisby@fishergerman.co.uk

victoria.oldham@fishergerman.co.uk

Darren Hunt

Tom Dennes

Thame

Worcester and Hereford

07880 385037

07587 033061

darren.hunt@fishergerman.co.uk

tom.dennes@fishergerman.co.uk

Stuart Flint

Alasdair Dunne

National Country Agency Team

National Country Agency Team

07501 720422

07501 720412

stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk

alasdair.dunne@fishergerman.co.uk

Richard Gadd

Ben Marshalsay

National Country Agency Team

National Development Team

07966 481487

07771 974322

richard.gadd@fishergerman.co.uk

ben.marshalsay@fishergerman.co.uk

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PLEASE CHECK THAT ALL OFFICES ARE ON HERE AND WHERE YOU WANT THEM

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‌and where to find us...

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Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840 ashbyagency@fishergerman.co.uk

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Banbury 01295 271555 banbury@fishergerman.co.uk

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Bedford 01234 823661 bedford@fishergerman.co.uk

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Bromsgrove 01527 575525 bromsgrove@fishergerman.co.uk

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Canterbury 01227 477877 canterbury@fishergerman.co.uk

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Chester 01244 409660 chester@fishergerman.co.uk

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Doncaster 01302 243930 doncaster@fishergerman.co.uk

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Halesowen 0121 561 7888 halesowen@fishergerman.co.uk Hereford 01432 802545 hereford@fishergerman.co.uk

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Hungerford 01488 662750 hungerford@fishergerman.co.uk

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Knutsford 01565 757970 knutsford@fishergerman.co.uk

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Market Harborough 01858 410200 harborough@fishergerman.co.uk

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Newark 01636 642500 newark@fishergerman.co.uk

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Stafford 01785 257011 stafford@fishergerman.co.uk

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Thame 01844 212004 thame@fishergerman.co.uk

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Worcester 01905 726220 worcester@fishergerman.co.uk

National Country Agency Team 020 7870 7799 ncat@fishergerman.co.uk

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/company/fisher-german-llp @FisherGerman @fisher_german www.fishergerman.co.uk /knowledge-centre/publications/facebook

An architectural masterpiece

The perfect house for entertaining on a grand scale

Barlaston, Staffordshire • • • • • • •

£

Located almost equidistant between Birmingham and Manchester 4 wonderful reception rooms Master bedroom suite with dressing room 3 guest bedroom suites, 5 further bedrooms and family bathroom Integral 1 bedroom flat Garaging, stables/stores, garden room, greenhouse/orangery Beautiful landscaped gardens and grounds

Guide Price – £2,000,000 Stafford 01785 257011

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 7

North Newington, Oxfordshire Attractive village home with building plot.

• • • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms Kitchen, conservatory, bathroom First floor bedroom, study & cloakroom Two second floor bedrooms Attractive mature gardens Planning for 3 bedroom house in garden Planning for new access and garage EPC rating F

Guide price – £639,000 Banbury 01295 271555

Bishampton, Worcestershire Stunning Grade II Listed detached period farmhouse.

• • • • • • • •

£

4 reception rooms, study, garden room Breakfast kitchen with Aga, cellar 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, shower room Period outbuildings Utility room, stores, workshop In all approximately 4,186 sq ft Natural swimming pool & changing room Landscaped gardens & grounds

Guide price – £770,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Cheadle, Staffordshire An impressive Grade II Listed Hall.

• • • • • • •

£

Grand reception hall 5 reception rooms 10 bedrooms 7 bathrooms 2 kitchens In all about 19.1 acres Commercial buildings & outbuildings

Guide price – £1,750,000 Stafford 01785 257011

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A stunning property set within a delightful wooded valley

Ellastone, Staffordshire • • • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms Open plan breakfast kitchen Master bedroom suite and dressing room 4 further bedrooms, 1 with en suite Fantastic oak framed summer house Impressive garage and workshop Grounds extending to about 8 acres EPC rating D

Guide price – £1,000,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 9

AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Market Harborough Market Harborough is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Welland Valley. The town beautifully combines tradition and modern amenities, with a host of boutique shops on the attractive and historical high street, and all the modern conveniences in the suburbs. Although small, it offers everything from leisure clubs and theatre groups to children’s parks and shopping facilities.

Surrounding this traditional market town are many charming and thriving villages made up of warm ironstone cottages, modern homes and grand houses, plus some of the finest village pubs. It’s the perfect place for a hike along one of the area’s many footpaths followed by a pint in a pub. The area offers something for everyone – whether a quiet rural existence, a busy active life or something in between. In addition to the beautiful location, Market Harborough is on a main train line to London with many journeys taking less than an hour. If you prefer the car, most people would tell you that Market Harborough is

THREE GREAT DAYS OUT

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Foxton Locks See the longest and steepest staircase locks in the UK, in the heart of Leicestershire’s rolling countryside

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superbly positioned to get you anywhere in the country quickly.

Many people are drawn to the area due to excellent schools, with many outstanding local village schools with traditional philosophies. In Market Harborough itself there is great secondary schooling with the rated - outstanding Welland Park. On top of state schooling, some of the best independent schools can be found in the area from prep schools including Maidwell Hall and Spratton Hall to public schools like Uppingham, Oundle, Oakham and Rugby as well as Leicester Grammar and Stamford.

The Market Harborough team deal with a range of property from charming cottages to country estates, selling some of the best homes in the area.

Rutland Water Just north of Market Harborough set in 4200 acres of open countryside, offering activities for all the family

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Theatres Northampton and Leicester, with wonderful cultural quarters and excellent theatres, are close at hand

Great Easton, Leicestershire A newly extended and beautifully modernised detached Victorian home.

• • • • • • • •

£

Kitchen/breakfast/living room Separate spacious sitting room Master bedroom with en suite 3 further double bedrooms Family bathroom Garage/workshop Newly landscaped gardens EPC rating C

Guide price – £695,000 Market Harborough 01858 410200

Peatling Parva, Leicestershire A charming, beautifully presented country cottage.

• • • • • • • •

£

2 reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast room Utility & boot rooms 4 double bedrooms 3 bath/shower rooms Private walled rear garden Double garage EPC rating D

Guide price – £500,000 Market Harborough 01858 410200

Hardwick, Northamptonshire A carefully restored family home in a delightful rural setting.

• • • • • • • •

£

3 principal reception rooms, study Magnificent conservatory Kitchen/living/dining room, utility room 6 Bedrooms, 5 bath/shower rooms Office/guest/entertainment suite Delightful gardens & grounds About 6 acres of pasture land EPC rating F

Guide price – £1,300,000 Market Harborough 01858 410200

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 11

Hough Green, Chester An elegant and substantial recently refurbished suburban property.

• • • • • • • •

£

A substantial Victorian property Breakfast kitchen, utility area 4 reception rooms 5 bedrooms 3 bath/shower rooms Detached garage, off-street parking Beautiful walled gardens EPC rating C

Guide price – £775,000 Chester 01244 409660

Shutford, Oxfordshire Appealing cottage for improvement in an enviable position.

• • • • • • • •

£

Hall, sitting room, dining room Kitchen, utility, conservatory 3 double bedrooms (2 en suite) Garage, store, summerhouse Gardens, in all about 0.56 acre Fabulous rural setting Attractive views EPC rating F

Guide price – £585,000 Banbury 01295 271555

Coleorton, Leicestershire A delightful coach house in a stunning setting.

• • • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms and conservatory Breakfast kitchen, utility room Games room, shower room 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Garaging, outbuildings and lake Summer house and tennis court Extensive gardens, in all about 9 acres EPC rating E

Guide price – £1,100,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

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Local Knowledge, National Coverage

National Country Agency Team The knowledge and expertise provided by your local office is complemented and enhanced by our National Country Agency Team.

Whilst local and regional buyers make up the largest group of potential purchasers for most properties, the ability to reach and promote your property to a national market can be very important.

The National Country Agency Team are specialists in this area. Working as a dedicated team within Fisher German, they specialise in the sale of a broad range of property, and typically with the sale of country houses, farms and estates. Where properties are more complex, or perhaps of a higher value, the team can provide technical expertise and guidance to chart a clear path through the myriad and often complex factors that could be influential in the sale.

Please contact us at ncat@fishergerman.co.uk or ring 020 7870 7799

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 13

Denton, Vale of Belvoir A delightful village home with extensive gardens and separate annexe.

• • • • • • • •

£

Charming character cottage 2 reception rooms Beautiful kitchen with garden room 4/5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Separate 1 bedroom annexe Outbuildings Garden and grounds circa 0.7 acre EPC rating E

Guide price – £749,950 Market Harborough 01858 410200

St Johns, Worcester Beautiful period property in 0.43 acre plot.

• • • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms, conservatory Breakfast kitchen, utility, cloakroom 4 double bedrooms, family bathroom Cellar, garage/workshop In all approx 3,142 sq ft Deep frontage and driveway Large rear garden, in all 0.43 acre EPC rating E

Guide price – £600,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Cheswardine, Shropshire Grade ll Listed stables and clock tower with planning.

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A range of Grade ll Listed stables Charming Grade ll Listed clock tower Permission to convert to 6 residential units Existing 2 bedroom stable conversion About 9788 sq ft in total Mature gardens Splendid rural position

Guide price – £825,000 Stafford 01785 257011

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A spectacular setting

Blakedown, Worcestershire • • • • • • • •

£

A private, secluded mini estate 3 principal reception rooms Games room, study, billiards room 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms Indoor pool complex and gym Tennis court, manège, stabling Beautiful gardens and grounds About 40 acres

Price on application Worcester 01905 726220

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 15

First impressions The old adage “first impressions count� is perhaps seldom more apt than when selling a house – and whether buyers are looking online, have seen an advert in the press or have spotted a for sale board outside your property, it is highly likely that the first thing they will see is the exterior of your home.

A bad first impression is difficult to reverse, so it is vitally important to ensure that external presentation is appealing to potential purchasers. People make fast judgements about the inside of a property from the external view. If a property is lacking kerb appeal, a prospective purchaser could be lost before they even get through the front door.

So, what can be done to increase the instant appeal of a property? It goes without saying that the area should be free of weeds and litter, but there are things that can be done beyond a simple general tidy-up to encourage a favourable response.

The entrance to the house is the focal point of kerb appeal and so front doors should be well painted in a style that is both in keeping with the property and likely to appeal to your buyers. Similarly, door furniture should be

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attractive, well maintained and congruent to the home. A striking and attractive door can create an aspirational appeal that will really encourage viewings.

Windows need to be clean and the frames should be in good condition and complementary to the front door and general look of the property. The façade needs to be well maintained. We would always suggest that any necessary repairs to masonry and pointing have been carried out, and that any less than attractive brickwork is painted or otherwise disguised. Guttering and roofing should be appropriately maintained. Pathways should be swept and free from leaves and debris.

A multitude of bins is a necessity of modern life, but if possible, they should be hidden away and not located at the front of the home.

Whether the property has a front garden or not, greenery and an attractive display of carefully chosen plants and flowers will really increase aesthetic appeal. Neatly trimmed hedges, borders with attractive perennials, pretty climbing roses or wisteria, and well planted pots and window boxes can make a huge difference.

Whether the property has a front garden or not, greenery and an attractive display of carefully chosen plants and flowers will really increase aesthetic appeal

It’s easy to see that with imagination and just a small investment, kerb appeal can be maximised to ensure that the all-important first impression is a positive one. Ensuring your potential buyer is in an optimistic frame of mind before they get inside your home will really increase the likelihood of a favourable offer being made.

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 17

AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Stafford Staffordshire is known for wonderful countryside; Cannock Chase, to the south-east of Stafford, is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the county extends into the Peak District National Park in the north. From The Roaches gritstone escarpment to the banks of the River Trent, the Staffordshire landscape offers something for everyone.

location for commuters working in Birmingham, Stoke on Trent, Burton and Derby. Birmingham, East Midlands and Manchester Airports are within easy access and Stafford inter-city Main Line Railway gives fast and frequent trains into most major cities with travel time to London Euston in approximately 77 minutes.

Staffordshire has an abundance of lovely towns and villages, from the small canal town of Stone to the market town of Uttoxeter, and thriving villages such as Denstone and Abbotts Bromley with their beautiful walks and village pubs. Staffordshire has a rich industrial heritage with the pottery industry in the north and coal mining in the south.

Stafford’s local history can be seen throughout the town and in The Elizabethan Ancient High House and Stafford Castle. Lichfield, in the south of the county, is known for its medieval three-spired Cathedral and provides many fabulous restaurants and shops.

There is an excellent range of schooling within the area including Denstone College, Abbotsholme School, Abbots Bromley School for Girls, Thomas Alleynes School in Uttoxeter, Painsley Catholic College in Cheadle, Lichfield Cathedral School, Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls and Repton School.

Staffordshire caters for city, town and village life. Vicky Oldham, head of agency in Stafford, comments that she is privileged to offer a range of beautiful properties, both period and contemporary, across a range of rural and semi-rural locations.

The county has excellent transport links with several major roads intersecting the county, making it a popular

THREE GREAT DAYS OUT

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Alton Towers & Alton Towers Water Park Considered by some to be the best theme park in the country

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Shugborough Hall A National Trust Estate with complete Georgian mansion and stunning gardens

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National Memorial Arboretum A national site and a world renowned centre of remembrance

Longdon, Staffordshire Beautifully presented Grade ll Listed former mill.

• • • • • •

£

5 delightful reception rooms Spacious kitchen/breakfast room 5 double bedrooms 3 bathrooms Mature gardens and garaging Village location

Guide price – £1,400,000 Stafford 01785 257011

Stubwood, Staffordshire A delightful four bedroom family home.

• • • • • • • •

£

Splendid dining hall Large sitting room Family room Large kitchen/breakfast room 2 guest cloakrooms & utility room 4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms Triple garage, workshop & gardens EPC rating D

Guide price – £750,000 Stafford 01785 257011

Haughton, Staffordshire A lovely country cottage with paddock and stabling.

• • • • • • • •

£

Spacious double aspect sitting room Large open plan kitchen/dining room Guest cloakroom 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Garaging Mature gardens, paddock and stabling Countryside views EPC rating C

Guide price – £650,000 Stafford 01785 257011

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 19

Ipstones, Staffordshire An impressive Grade II Listed house and cottage set within beautiful gardens.

• • • • • •

£

Attractive period house, built circa 1770 Many fine period features Integral 2 bed annexe 4 bed cottage Grounds in all extending to c 14.5 acres District biomass heating system with renewable heat incentive scheme

Guide price – £2,500,000 Stafford 01785 257011

Whitbourne, Worcestershire Beautifully presented property with annexe in idyllic setting.

• • • • • • • •

£

Kitchen/dining room, conservatory, study Sitting room with log burner 3 double bedrooms, master en suite Stylish family bathroom 1 bed annexe, gym & double garage In all approx 2,748 sq ft Gardens, hot tub, gravelled driveway EPC ratings E (Annexe E)

Guide price – £550,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Ellastone, Staffordshire Immaculately presented period farmhouse with annexe.

• • • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms Large dining kitchen Master bedroom and en suite 3 further bedrooms Self-contained 2 bed annexe Garaging and numerous outbuildings Mature gardens extending to 1.8 acres EPC rating E & G

Guide price – £875,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

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A charming country property in a delightful rural setting

Hampton, Malpas • • • • • • • •

£

An impressive period property Reception hall, 2 reception rooms Breakfast kitchen, study, conservatory 2 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms Attached 3 bedroom barn Garage, outdoor swimming pool Landscaped gardens, in all about 4.09 acres EPC rating F

Guide price – £1,100,000 Chester 01244 409660

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 21

AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Chester The historic city of Chester was founded in AD79 by the Romans and still shows many signs of its long and fascinating history. The city walls encircle the city boundaries and constitute the most complete city walls in Britain. The Rows are unique in Britain and consist of buildings with shops or dwellings on the lowest two storeys. Roman remains can still be found in Chester, particularly in the basements of some of the buildings and in the lower parts of the northern section of the city walls.

The most important Roman feature is the Amphitheatre.

This bustling city offers easy access to beautiful Cheshire and North Wales countryside. Good links to the M53, M56 and M6 make commuting to regional commercial centres straightforward. Chester Railway Station offers a direct line service to London Euston within 2 hours and Liverpool and Manchester Airports are easily accessible.

THREE GREAT DAYS OUT

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The Roodee One of the country’s oldest active racecourses, playing host to a thriving horse racing and international polo season

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Local state schooling is well-provided for in the area at Belgrave, Upton Heath and Overleigh St Mary’s Primary Schools and Queen’s Park, Bishops’ Blue Coat and Christleton High Schools. Independent schooling is provided for at both King’s and Queen’s Schools in Chester, and Abbey Gate College in nearby Saighton.

Chester offers a diverse property stock ranging from contemporary to traditional. The suburbs provide Victorian and post-war family homes, whilst the outlying villages present some beautiful period cottages and country homes. Michael Harris, head of agency in Chester, comments that Chester has something to offer for all tastes and budgets. Fisher German Chester are also well known for the sale of building plots, agricultural land and farms, and operate throughout Cheshire and North Wales.

A cruise on the River From half-hour City Cruises, Afternoon Tea and Themed Party Nights

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Chester Zoo Over 15,000 animals in 125 acres of zoological gardens

Higher Kinnerton, Chester A substantial and beautifully presented modern country home.

• • • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms Breakfast kitchen 4 bedrooms 3 bath/shower rooms Double garage Beautiful landscaped gardens Extends to approx 0.41 acre EPC rating C

Guide price – £725,000 Chester 01244 409660

Cuddington, Malpas A beautifully presented property with countryside views.

• • • • • • • •

£

Situated in an idyllic setting Sitting/dining room, family room Breakfast kitchen Ground floor shower room 4 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms Home office/studio, double garage Superb landscaped gardens EPC rating D

Offers over £600,000 Chester 01244 409660

Pulford, Cheshire A substantial residence within private extensive gardens.

• • • • • • • •

£

Situated in a semi-rural setting 3 reception rooms, hobby room Kitchen breakfast room 2 home offices, utility 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, shower room Gardens, tennis court, garaging In all extending to approx 2.64 acres EPC rating F

Guide price – £895,000 Chester 01244 409660

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 23

Garden trends The blurring of interior and exterior living spaces is a trend that is set to continue for years to come. The garden is no longer seen as a separate entity to the living area of the home, and even the notion of outside space as a mere extension of the living area seems rather outmoded; people are now considering gardens as very much part of the living area of a home.

We expect a great deal from our gardens.

They are often required to provide a place for football and cricket practice, climbing and trampolining, entertaining, eating and if you’re lucky, perhaps even quiet contemplation. Carefully considered design can effectively delineate areas of the garden for all these purposes whilst ensuring that the communication and flow from inside to out is well-thought-out, taking in both practical and aesthetic considerations.

It is always important to ensure the style of garden and transitional spaces truly complement your home, family and lifestyle – Then a true harmony of living spaces is created.

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Alfresco dining has been popular for years, but many people are now eschewing the traditional notion that cooking should take place inside and that dining areas must be directly adjacent to the home. Cooking outside, with grills, pizza ovens and even fully fitted outdoor kitchens, is becoming an increasingly desirable aspect of entertaining and family life. Dining spaces are no longer

restricted to a patio, and separate pergolas, verandas or other specially designed areas are being used to create additional garden ‘rooms’ which are slightly separate from the home and offer a more immersive experience of outside living.

The blurring of inside and outside spaces is not one-way traffic – as well as taking the inside out, drawing the outside in is another way to create a pleasing symbiosis between garden and home. Transitional spaces such as orangeries, sunrooms and conservatories create a continuation of the interior space whist making the most of garden views and providing useful additional dining spaces or family rooms. If such an additional structure is not possible, considered use of glass panelling, large windows or bi-fold doors can unite inside and outside spaces. Similarly, a continuation of flooring between inside

and out will create an attractive blurring of boundaries. Taking the outside in is not limited to rooms directly adjacent to gardens; indoor plants are regaining popularity and provide an easy way to bring the colours and greenery of the outdoors into spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms with minimal cost and upheaval.

However you decide to create flow between the interior and exterior, it is always important to remember that although trends shift and change with time, they are there to guide not to be followed to the letter. It is always important to ensure the style of garden and transitional spaces truly complement your home, family and lifestyle – Then a true harmony of living spaces is created.

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 25

Selling success

Swanbourne, Milton Keynes

SOLD

North Kilworth, Leicestershire

SOLD

Aynho, Oxfordshire

SOLD

Belbroughton, Worcestershire

SOLD

Ednaston, Derbyshire

SOLD

Malvern, Worcestershire

SOLD

Rugeley, Staffordshire

SOLD

South Kilworth, Leicestershire

SOLD

Cilcain, Mold

SOLD

Hanwell, Oxfordshire

SOLD

Middleton Scriven, Shropshire

SOLD

Cuddington, Buckinghamshire

SOLD

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Dumbleton, Gloucestershire

SOLD

Hoar Cross, Staffordshire

SOLD

Chester, Cheshire

SOLD

Banks Green, Worcestershire

SOLD

Stafford, Staffordshire

SOLD

Mollington, Oxfordshire

SOLD

Oakamoor, Staffordshire

SOLD

Kingswood, Buckinghamshire

SOLD

Westminster Avenue, Chester

SOLD

Osgathorpe, Leicestershire

SOLD

Romsley, Worcestershire

SOLD

Medbourne, Leicestershire

SOLD

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 27

AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Ashby de la Zouch Our team may be based in Ashby de la Zouch, but we roam over a huge geographical area that includes Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire. This is a beautiful part of the world with a National Park, National Forest, Pennine range, valleys, reservoirs, castles, beautiful market towns, villages, cities and of course Chatsworth ‌. and we have the pleasure of selling some of the most beautiful property in this exceptionally diverse area.

A great deal of what we do is centred around Ashbourne and mid-Derbyshire which sits on the southern boundary of the Peak District National Park offering a broad range of recreational activities including walking, riding, sailing and fishing. Ashbourne itself offers a super variety of independent shops and restaurants and a cobbled market square. You may or may not want to visit on the annual Shrovetide football match!

Abbey, a fascinating National Trust property with delightful parkland, and the famous brewery town of Burton upon Trent.

Ashby de la Zouch, Market Bosworth and their surrounding villages in west Leicestershire, attract a great deal of interest from buyers due to their attractive locations, availability of good schools and ease of access to major urban centres.

This part of the Midlands is served by excellent road links with the M1 to the east of the patch and the M6 to the west.

There are fast rail links north and south and of course East Midlands Airport.

The variety and quality of the schooling in the area is first class and includes Denstone College, Repton School, Foremarke Hall, Derby Grammar and Derby High schools, Abbotsholme, Loughborough Grammar School, and The Dixie Grammar School.

We are often in South Derbyshire and East Staffordshire which is studded with numerous attractive villages, Calke

THREE GREAT DAYS OUT

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PAGE 28 | SOURCE 2018

Spend a morning browsing in Ashbourne followed by lunch in a lovely independent cafĂŠ

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Visit Calke Abbey, a fascinating National Trust property with delightful parkland

3

Take a walk in the stunning Peak District National Park

Orton-on-the-Hill, Leicestershire A period farmhouse with excellent equestrian facilities.

• • • • • • • •

£

3-4 reception rooms, breakfast kitchen 6 bedrooms, 6 bath/shower rooms 1 bedroom annexe Office Range of barns and garaging Stable range with two tack rooms Manège, paddocks, in all 8.13 acres EPC rating D

Guide price – £1,850,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

Longford, Derbyshire A highly impressive barn conversion in a rural position.

• • • • • • • •

£

Open plan living/dining kitchen 4 further reception rooms Spacious master bedroom with en suite 3 further bedrooms Family bathroom plus 2 en suites Outbuilding - garaging, stabling Garden & land in all about 0.9 acre EPC rating C

Guide price – £850,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

Ingleby, Derbyshire A characterful period house with views.

• • • • • • • •

£

Reception hall with slate floor Kitchen with breakfast area Large family room 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Office, integral garage/workshop Useful brick outbuilding Well established gardens EPC rating F

Offers in excess of £525,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 29

Dee Banks, Chester A spacious riverside property with parking and mooring rights.

• • • • • • • •

£

Contemporary designed property Situated in an elevated setting Living room, dining room, kitchen 3 bedrooms 2 bath/shower rooms 3 riverside balconies Private covered parking, mooring rights EPC rating D

Guide price – £650,000 Chester 01244 409660

Owlswick, Buckinghamshire A rarely available family home offering great flexibility set amongst 6.69 acres.

• • • • • • •

£

Entrance hall, kitchen/breakfast room Sitting room, dining room 4 bedrooms 2 family bathrooms 40 X 20 manège, 6.69 Acres Post and rail fenced paddocks EPC rating D

Guide price – £1,350,000 Thame 01844 212004

Abberton, Worcestershire Quintessential half timbered 4 bedroom detached cottage.

• • • • • • • •

£

Character accommodation 2/3 reception rooms Kitchen, breakfast room 3/4 bedrooms, master en suite Family bathroom, shower room In all approx 1,800 sq ft Gardens, off-road parking Grade II Listed

Guide price – £575,000 Bromsgrove 01527 575525

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Impressive farmhouse with land in tranquil setting

Pillerton Hersey, Warwickshire • • • • • • • •

£

Kitchen/breakfast room, dining room Triple aspect drawing room 5 double bedrooms Stabling & outbuildings Delightful gardens, grounds & paddocks Fabulous rural setting In all about 1.27 acres Further land available separately

Guide price – £1,100,000 Banbury 01295 271555

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AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Thame Thame is a quintessential English market town boasting a wide range of independent shops, butchers, public houses and restaurants. The town is known for being one of the main filming locations for ‘Midsomer Murders’ and also the odd episode of ‘Lewis’! Sitting at the foot of the Chiltern Hills in an Area of Outstand Natural Beauty, Thame’s surrounding rolling countryside, with beautiful walks and cycle paths, is at the heart of many resident’s lifestyles.

Oxford is close by offering a wealth of historical buildings, picturesque rivers and a world-renowned University, and the luxury shopping destination of Bicester Village is less than a half hour drive away. Haddenham & Thame Parkway is just a couple of miles away and provides a direct high speed train service into central London in just 35 minutes.

The M40 motorway is also a stone’s throw away, offering easy access to the north and south.

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Waddesdon Manor Magnificent house and grounds bequeathed to the National Trust

by James de Rothschild

2

The area has a wide range of private, public and grammar schools. Lord Williams, located in Thame is steeped in local history, and Oxford offers further schooling options, including the highly regarded St Edwards School and Headington School.

As an ideal location for commuters and families, the local property market remains buoyant, with the wide variety of both period and modern homes giving Thame and the surrounding areas prosperous growth year on year. From city life to the countryside dream, Oxfordshire offers the local community the flexibility and accessibility to enjoy their chosen lifestyle with a traditional rural feel.

Fisher German Thame deal with a wide variety of both village and town properties ranging from period homes to substantial farms and estates covering the Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire borders.

Bicester Village Shopping outlet with more than 160 designer and luxury brands

3

Waterperry Gardens 8 acres of landscaped ornamental gardens, plus shops and museum

Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire A delightful six bedroom Victorian farmhouse with equestrian facilities.

• • • • • • • •

£

Sitting room, snug/family room Open plan kitchen/dining room Master bedroom with en suite Further 4 bedrooms Guest annexe with en suite shower room Stable block of four stables, 7.55 acres Manège, post and rail fenced paddocks EPC rating E

Guide price – £1,650,000 Thame 01844 212004

Chinnor, Oxfordshire A rarely available period family home set at the foot of the Chiltern Hills.

• • • • • • • •

£

Sitting room with log burner Formal dining room Kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom 4 bedrooms, shower room Summer house & outdoor workshop Heated swimming pool Landscaped gardens EPC rating D

Guide price – £995,000 Thame 01844 212004

Thame, Oxfordshire A magnificent and highly individual home enjoying a truly idyllic setting.

• • • • • • • •

£

Kitchen with walk in larder, utility Garden room, private views of rear gardens 3 further reception rooms 4 bedrooms and two bathrooms Guest bedroom and en suite Tandem garage, extensive driveway Detached timber built summer house EPC rating E

Guide price – £1,150,000 Thame 01844 212004

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 33

A stunning cottage

Beautiful Grade II Listed 4 bedroom family home

Tiddington, Thame • • • • • • • •

£

Kitchen/breakfast room Sitting room and dining room 4 Bedrooms Bathroom and wet room Barn style garage with room above Landscaped gardens Idyllic countryside views EPC exempt

Guide price – £795,000 Thame 01844 212004

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AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Banbury Combining an historic market town with excellent communication links, Banbury sits in the Cherwell Valley in north Oxfordshire. Banbury is around 1,500 years old and well known for the ‘ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross’ nursery rhyme. The town is surrounded by the beautiful rolling countryside of Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire, with pretty villages, quintessential cottages, abundant ironstone period properties and fine country houses providing a counterbalance to the rural vistas. The city of Oxford, with abundant amenities and rich cultural heritage, is nearby, and the scenic countryside of the Cotswolds is within an easy drive. Soho Farmhouse hotel and members’ club and Bicester Village luxury designer shopping destination are also easily accessible.

Banbury and the surrounding areas attract many London relocators who appreciate the ease of commuting to Marylebone and the appeal of the beautiful area and facilities offered. There is a great choice of state and private schools in the area including public schools at Stowe, Warwick and Rugby. Then there is Bloxham School and Tudor Hall School, King Edward VI School and Stratford Girls Grammar at Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Warriner School at Bloxham, which means that the area is an attractive prospect for families.

Fisher German Banbury deal with a broad range of properties, from small cottages to period family village homes, large country houses with land, farms and bespoke individual new build homes.

Junction 11 of the M40 motorway is conveniently located on the edge of the town, and both central London and Birmingham are within an hour’s train journey. Indeed

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Oxford City Centre Explore the architecture, theatres, shops and restaurants of this historic city

2

Stratford upon Avon Shakespeare’s birthplace and home of the Royal Shakespeare Company and theatre

3

Silverstone Motor Circuit The Grand Prix plus numerous other motoring events

Shenington, Oxfordshire Period cottage bursting with character.

• • • • • • • •

£

Sitting room, dining room Kitchen/breakfast room Utility room, study, cloakroom 2 first floor bedrooms en suite Lots of original features Private enclosed garden Wonderful peaceful location Overlooking village green

Guide price – £385,000 Banbury 01295 271555

Adderbury, Oxfordshire Substantial family home with period features.

• • • • • • •

£

Hall, kitchen/breakfast room Sitting room, dining room, family room 5 bedrooms (master with en suite) Family bathroom, shower room Garage, summerhouse Enclosed private garden EPC rating E

Guide price – £695,000 Banbury 01295 271555

Sibford Ferris, Oxfordshire Very well presented modern family home in desirable village.

• • • • • • • •

£

Hall, kitchen/breakfast/living room Sitting room, conservatory, utility Master bedroom en suite 3 further double bedrooms, bathroom Enclosed rear garden Double garage Off-street parking EPC rating E

Guide price – £550,000 Banbury 01295 271555

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Outstanding barn conversion with magnificent open plan living space

Islip, Northamptonshire • • • • • • •

£

Unique open plan living space Separate family room, dining room Bespoke kitchen, utility room 4 bedrooms Triple garage, enclosed garden Wonderful village location EPC rating D

Guide price – £795,000 Market Harborough 01858 410200

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Pavenham, Bedfordshire A quality country house with an exceptional outlook.

• • • • • • •

£

3 reception rooms, garden room 5 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms Extensive multi-purpose outbuilding Pasture, woodland, landing strip River frontage with fishing rights About 40.25 acres EPC rating E

Guide price – £1,575,000 Bedford 01234 823661

Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire Superb family home set in 4.82 acres.

• • • • • • •

£

5 reception rooms, kitchen 5 bedrooms, 4 bath (3 en suite) Separate first floor apartment Detached tandem double garage In all about 5,479 sq ft Garden & paddock approx 4.82 acres EPC rating D

Guide price – £2,100,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Duffield Bank, Derbyshire An extraordinary property with far reaching views.

• • • • • • • •

£

Reception hall and 3 reception rooms Open plan living/dining kitchen Study, office/reception room Shower room & second kitchen 5 bedrooms, self-contained guest suite Detached 1 bedroom annexe, outbuilding Extensive mature grounds, 6.02 acres EPC rating C & G

Guide price – £2,250,000 Ashby de la Zouch 01530 410840

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 39

AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Worcester The historic Cathedral City of Worcester has a rich heritage and is conveniently located for both the commuter and countryside lover. It has a fascinating local history; the Battle of Worcester took place here in 1651 marking the end of the English Civil War, it is the birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar, and the home of Worcester Sauce and Worcester Porcelain.

The city has a plethora of excellent shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants. Worcester Cathedral sits at the heart of the city rising majestically above the River Severn. There are many sporting venues to be proud of, from County Cricket at New Road, Horse Racing at Pitchcroft to Premiership Rugby at Sixways, home to the Worcester Warriors. On a cultural front, the Swan Theatre, Huntingdon Hall and theatres in nearby Malvern offer something for everyone.

and grandeur have inspired many musicians and poets, most famously Sir Edward Elgar.

Worcester is ideally placed for the M5 motorway at Junctions 6 or 7, connecting through to the M42, and the city benefits from two railway stations. The new parkway station is due to open in 2019 and will provide faster journeys to London and Birmingham. Worcester has two well regarded public schools, boasts some outstanding state schools and the University of Worcester brings a vibrant student population to the City.

The combination of culture, history, superb amenities and excellent transport links make Worcester a prime target for property hunters. Fisher German Worcester deal with city apartments through to country estates – and everything in between!

The Malvern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer stunning views and it is easy to see how their beauty

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Worcester Cathedral Explore the beautiful architecture and fascinating history

2

Croome Court & Witley Court Beautiful stately homes and grounds, plus plenty of activities

3

Malvern Hills a local landmark with captivating views and majestic walks

Lower Broadheath, Worcestershire A beautifully presented 4 bedroom detached property.

• • • • • • • •

£

2 reception rooms, study, cloakroom Kitchen breakfast room, utility room 4 double bedrooms Master en suite, family bathroom Garage / workshop In all approx 1,970 sq ft Rear garden EPC Rating E

Guide price – £525,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Defford, Worcestershire Stylish and characterful detached 3 bedroom village property.

• • • • • • •

£

Neptune kitchen, dining area Sitting room, study 3 double bedrooms, 1 en suite Period features throughout In all approx 1,239 sq ft Garden, summerhouse, parking EPC rating F

Guide price – £365,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Kinver, Worcestershire A substantial family home with 2 bed cottage set in 20.28 acres.

• • • • • • • •

£

Excellent farmhouse, c 4,067 sq ft in all 3 receptions, kitchen breakfast room 3 bed suites, potential for 3 more beds 2 bed detached cottage – c 1,583 sq ft Two storey barn and 2 loose boxes Triple garage, 2 bed static caravan Garden, paddocks and woodland EPC ratings F and C

Guide price – £1,350,000 Worcester 01905 726220

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Stamp duty Calculating your liability to this progressive tax can be complex.

It also depends on the type of property you are buying, and whether it is your principal private home, a second or third home or a commercial or mixed use property.

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Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is payable to HMRC when buying property or land over a certain value. The main change since our last edition of Source is the announcement in the 2017 Autumn Budget of an exemption to this tax for first time buyers. Now, a first purchase of up to £300,000 no longer attracts the tax, and the existing rate of 5% applies between £300,000 and £500,000.

The relief does not apply to properties above £500,000. There are also changes for house buyers in Wales, where Land Transaction Tax (LTT) has replaced UK Stamp Duty Land Tax.

become less contentious and over the last few months it has barely made the headlines.

In truth, the market needed the stimulus to ensure that the first rung on the property ladder was a step nearer. Activity generated by first time buyers inevitably creates positive ripples throughout the market. It’s notable that despite the fact that the amount of stamp duty being paid at the top end of the market is still eye watering, SDLT has

Calculating your liability to this progressive tax can be complex. It also depends on the type of property you are buying, and whether it is your principal private home, a second or third home or a commercial or mixed use property. On the next page we break down what Stamp Duty you would be charged depending on a variety of factors.

SDLT is payable to HMRC in the UK with the exception of Scotland where they have their own Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), and since April 2018, Wales who have their own Land Transaction Tax (LTT). Stamp Duty applies whether you are purchasing a property for investment or to live in, and to both freehold and leasehold properties. The tax is levied progressively, in a similar way to income tax.

Purchasing a sole Residential Property

Second Home, Buy-to-let Property or Holiday Home

Non Residential or Mixed Use Property

If you are purchasing a residential property, are not a first time buyer, and this will be the only property you will own (whether you live in it or not), then you will pay Stamp Duty if the transaction price is above £125 000.

Thereafter, you pay tax as follows:

Since April 2016, anyone purchasing a second home or buy-to-let property above £40,000 (unless this is the only property you own) will have to pay an additional 3% on top of the amounts detailed above.

Purchasing a property with significant land holdings can attract a different stamp duty calculation. If the property is classified as nonresidential or mixed use land and property as from the 17th of March 2017 there is a stepped regime as follows:

• The next £125,000 (the portion from £125,001 to £250,000) - 2% • The next £675,000 (the portion from £250,001 to £925,000) - 5% • The next £575,000 (the portion from £925,001 to £1.5 million) -10% • The remaining amount (the portion above £1.5 million) - 12%

If you are purchasing a new property which you intend to use as your only home, but haven’t yet sold your previous house, you would have to pay the higher rates above – However, if you sell your old house within 36 months you could get a refund.

• Up to £150,000 – 0% • Above £150,000 and up to 250,000 – 2% • Above £250,000 – 5% This replaces the old regime which was a flat 4% of the purchase price.

Our agency teams are highly knowledgeable and are often asked to provide advice about SDLT so please do get in touch with any questions you may have. To make life a little easier, our impressive new website has an online Stamp Duty calculator to cut through the often-confusing world of SDLT and save you time – you can find it on our website fishergerman.co.uk

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 43

Somerby, Leicestershire Handsome village home with large garden and stunning rural views.

• • • • • • • •

£

Attractive entrance hall 2 formal reception rooms Sitting room 4 bedrooms Separate cottage Extensive gardens Backing onto open countryside EPC rating F

Guide price – £900,000 Market Harborough 01858 410200

Bronwylfa, Wrexham A delightful family home in a most picturesque setting.

• • • • • • • •

£

Beautifully presented family property Exceptional open countryside views 3 reception rooms, breakfast kitchen 5 bedrooms 2 bath/shower rooms Attached double garage Gardens of approx 0.3 acre EPC rating E

Guide price – £425,000 Chester 01244 409660

Oakamoor, Staffordshire Superb 5 bedroom family home.

• • • • • • • •

£

Open plan living/dining room Kitchen/breakfast room Utility & guest cloakroom Snug & study 5 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms Countryside views Village location EPC rating C

Guide price – £500,000 Stafford 01785 257011

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Splendid country house with grounds extending to 9.15 acres

Orleton, Worcestershire • • • • • • • •

£

In all approx 18,331 sq ft (plus additional accommodation) Principal house: 4 reception rooms, 9 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms 4 bedroom cottage with sitting room and kitchen diner Further 1 bedroom house with external office Entertainment barn with first floor studio Extensive range of outbuildings In all approx 9.15 acres EPC rating E

Guide price – £2,000,000 Worcester 01905 726220

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AREA GUIDE

Welcome to Bromsgrove Bromsgrove and its lovely adjoining villages have it all. The town is surrounded by glorious unspoilt Worcestershire Countryside, yet extremely accessible and well connected.

The area has many excellent dining opportunities from gastropubs to Michelin starred restaurants in Birmingham and there are also many cultural venues, from theatres to museums, not only in Bromsgrove but also nearby Birmingham and Worcester. Shopping needs are well catered for, from local shops and supermarkets in Bromsgrove to the extensive shopping opportunities in Birmingham with the Bull Ring Centre and Selfridges, the upscale Mailbox and Harvey Nichols and newer Grand Central and John Lewis. The area offers many opportunities for outdoor pursuits, by way of the National Trust’s Clent Hills, Lickey Hills Country Park, and the Birmingham and Worcester Canal to the east of Bromsgrove.

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Birmingham City Centre Enjoy the shopping, restaurants, culture and family friendly attractions

2

Bromsgrove has excellent transport links, with easy access to the wider West Midlands conurbation and excellent motorway links via the M5, M42 and M40. Birmingham is less than 25 minutes by train. Education facilities in the area are much admired, from the renowned Bromsgrove public school to a wide range of state schools.

Nurseries, further education establishments, clubs and sporting activities make the town a desirable destination for families.

Fisher German Bromsgrove deal with period town houses, bespoke new builds, country cottages, barn conversions, farmhouses, properties with equestrian facilities and recreation land.

National Trust’s Clent Hills Park A great place to enjoy walking and riding trails though stunning countryside

3

Avon Croft Open Air Museum in Bromsgrove.

Fascinating and eclectic collection of historic Worcestershire buildings

Tardebigge, Worcestershire A traditional Victorian farmhouse with many original features.

• • • • • • • •

£

Impressive reception hall, cellar 3 reception rooms and study Farmhouse kitchen with Aga, utility 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms Double garage and workshop/store Delightful gardens circa 1 acre Additional land available EPC rating E

Guide price – £975,000 Bromsgrove 01527 575525

Hanbury, Worcestershire Grade II Listed farmhouse in outstanding location.

• • • • • • • •

£

Great potential subject to permissions Character features throughout 2 reception rooms with fireplaces Breakfast kitchen and utility 3 bedrooms Bathroom, shower room 2051 sq ft of outbuildings 2 acres

Guide price – £500,000–£600,000 Bromsgrove 01527 575525

Elmbridge, Worcestershire Modern country residence, offering great potential with 12 acres.

• • • • • • • •

£

Outstanding rural location 3 reception rooms Breakfast kitchen, laundry & boot room 4 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms Double garage and detached barn Gardens, pasture, about 13.44 acres Potential to extend subject to PP EPC rating E

Guide price – £850,000 Bromsgrove 01527 575525

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Diglis, Worcester Penthouse with 3 double bedrooms, outside space and stunning views.

• • • • • • •

£

In all approx 1,183 sq ft 3 double bedrooms, 1 en-suite Living/dining room No onward chain Balcony running along three sides 2 secure allocated parking spaces EPC rating C

Guide price – £425,000 Worcester 01905 726220

Little Houghton, Northamptonshire A handsome Grade II Listed stone property in a popular village.

• • • • • • • •

£

Large entrance hall 3 reception rooms Kitchen with utility space 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Large private garden Ample off road parking Popular village location Excellent road and rail links

Guide price – £750,000 Market Harborough 01858 410200

Beltoft, South Yorkshire An imposing seven bedroom Grade II Listed period property with a wealth of character features.

• • • • • • •

£

Reception hall, 4 reception rooms Large kitchen and utility room 7 bedrooms, 2 en suite Further shower room and bathroom Private grounds extending to c 1.25 acres Attached double garage Large detached garage and workshop

Guide price – £675,000 Doncaster 01302 243930

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FROM AN AGENCY PERSPECTIVE Alasdair Dunne is Head of the Residential Sector at Fisher German, and also part of the National Country Agency Team, details of which you can find on page 13. Below, Alasdair answers a few of the questions he is often asked:

What do you think will happen to house prices over the next year?

I’m going to use a phrase not often uttered by housing market commentators and certainly not by estate agents – the market will be stable. I’m actually very happy with stable.

I would go as far as to suggest it’s the best thing for our market, our sellers and our buyers.

I think we might see very modest house price increases through to 2020, probably below the level of inflation, which in turn will gently ease affordability issues, particularly if we maintain our high level of employment and gentle wage growth. This would result in people beginning to find that they can access the housing market but without home owners feeling that the value of their home is dropping. In real terms, the value of debt will decrease not only through repayment, but also through steady inflationary devaluation. If this climate persists for around five to ten years then we would see the market re-balancing without trauma – and I’m all for that.

So, are people buying and selling?

We have just had our best ever year. This is a market in which people move because they strongly want to or feel they need to, few are

moving on a whim. Sensibly priced properties are selling very well, and we are seeing surprisingly strong activity. It’s true there are fewer people in the market, but those who are in, are highly motivated. I am fully aware of regional differences, that London is one of our most challenging housing markets but the Midlands, probably benefitting from the UK’s manufacturing resurgence, is seeing price rises and good activity.

The area we have witnessed a significant downturn in buyer activity is the buy-to-let market. A perfect storm of slow house price growth, changes to stamp duty and changes to tax relief have severely put the brakes on this market. The get out of jail free card is the upturn in first time buyer activity - it’s almost like someone planned it!

What about interest rate rises?

We will only see significant interest rate rises if we need to curb inflation. If the economy is performing and wages are increasing then the cost of money will increase, but most should be able to afford it. That’s clearly oversimplifying and rampant interest rate rises would undoubtedly crash the market, but I don’t foresee such rises.

What sort of agent should I use: online, high street or premium?

Forgive my bias here – but I’m going to suggest premium. Actually, I will caveat

that – there is a place in the market for an on-line agent option as evidenced by all of the people that have tried it, some of whom have recorded a sale. If you are confident that you understand the market, confident in your ability to negotiate not just the price but all the stages of the conveyancing process, and confident that by simply listing your house on a selling portal that you will attract the best buyer at the best price, then it could work for you.

If you want someone with you at each stage of the process, and you want that person to be from a knowledgeable, experienced team that has recorded a record number sales in a market where transactional volume has significantly reduced, then please call us.

We will not cut our fees to try and match on-line agents, because if we did we wouldn’t be able to offer the service, dedication and professionalism that makes us so successful. If you buy budget, your expectations may be low, if you pay a premium, you want excellence. Choosing your agent is exactly the same.

If you are thinking about buying or selling, we would be delighted to hear from you, our best advice awaits you. Please feel free to call me, or any of the people listed in this magazine.

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 49

Scope of service Fisher German LLP is a leading national firm of specialist property consultants and chartered surveyors, and we aim to be the best at what we do, as judged by our clients and colleagues.

There are nearly 500 of us and we work out of 16 offices throughout the UK. We work for a broad range of clients in six main sectors: Commercial; Development; Residential; Sustainable Energy; Rural; Utilities & Infrastructure. The heads of each sector are listed on this page together contact numbers that you might find useful if you need advice about pretty much any topic relating to property and land.

Alasdair Dunne

Ben Marshalsay

Giles Lister

Residential

Development

Utilities & Infrastructure

07501 720412

07771 974322

07901 918867

Duncan Bedhall

David Merton

Darren Edwards

Commercial

Rural

Sustainable Energy

07831 824663

07770 333331

07918 677571

PAGE 50 | SOURCE 2018

Thinking of Buying or Selling?

Fisher German has an extensive network offering exceptional national coverage. If you are looking to buy or sell residential or agricultural property we will be delighted to help you.

Please call us on any of the local office numbers on page 5 or email property@fishergerman.co.uk if you would like a free market appraisal.

Register with us Make life easy for yourself and get ahead of the rest in finding your ideal property by registering with us by email property@fishergerman.co.uk

fishergerman.co.uk | PAGE 51

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