Easton Residential Magazine by lpdpublications

EASTON RESIDENTIAL : MEET THE TEAM

Glenn Jackson Director

Glenn has worked within the industry for the last 30 Years ever since leaving school. Before opening the Business in December 2007 he did his training with a large independent Estate Agency in Bath and has since ran both independent and corporate offices in, Bristol, Winchester, Basingstoke and Southampton. Always focused on delivering the best possible service and results for the client he is still at the forefront of the operation from initial valuations to handing over keys upon completion. He is a trustee of a local charity and does lots of fundraising work in the background for such. Suffering from Multiple Sclerosis himself he knows only too well the daily obstacles many of us have to over come. He is a keen swimmer and golfer and reminds the team often that he is the disabled British Open Nett Champion Golfer of 2023 and Runner Up in the same event in 2024.

Lisa Mitch

Lisa’s now been with us for seven years and is an integral part of our team. Not only does she manage the lettings portfolio but also the staff and branch to exceptionally high standards. A vital cog in our team there is no- one better to roll up sleeves and sort issues yet supplying vital information to anyone buying, selling or renting. She lives locally with her husband, two children and three dogs.

Carole Waters

Carole has been with us for over four years now. From using us to sell her home we acted quickly on bringing her on board. Her customer service and communication is second to none and knowledge of the local area and each of the properties we sell or let being endless. She lives locally with her daughter.

Claire Bushell

Claire has immense knowledge in our industry having practised estate agency for over 30 years. She has run both corporate and independent branches in Kent and Hampshire and is phenomenal at sorting chains and issues.She lives in Holbury with her husband and daughter let alone the horses and numerous pets.

Jen Guy-Gibbens

Jen’s now been with us for over twelve years and works predominately with Lisa on maintaining our rental portfolio. She lives locally with her husband and son and is forever running around sorting an endless maintenance list. Her organisation and customer skills are exquisite and whenever there’s a problem, don’t call the A-Team, call Jen!

Carrie Langdale

Carrie has recently joined our team and helps Lisa and Jen run our rental portfolio.She lives locally with her children and pets. She’s rarely in the office usually carrying out inspections or sorting maintenance issues.

Mark Parfitt

Mark’s been with us since the start of our removals operation back in 2009. He’s moved people to all ends of the UK, to Ireland, Denmark, France, Germany and Spain. His knowledge is immense so call him today for any advice on how to pack or prepare for the forthcoming move.

Why use us?

With over 80 Years accumulative experience, in buying, selling or renting there are very few obstacles or situations we can’t overcome.

Just a few questions to ask yourself when appointing an agent working to sell what is most individuals biggest personal asset.

In todays world anyone can take photos, measurements and promote your home on the web. The art though in our industry is in the negotiation of the price and the progressing of the deal.

A good local Estate Agent doesn’t exist because we take a good photo or make you a nice cup of tea when you visit our offices. It’s because we take pride in our job and work tirelessly to ensure you achieve a) the best possible price, b) from the best possible buyer (not necessarily the first and c) with the check out each element of a sale best possible timescales. It is vital to check out each of a sale before agreeing terms. We know through vast experience that few agents will do so and especially those with no hight street presence.

An out of area agent doesn’t know local market conditions, they are not aware of all the planning regulations nor likely to use a local lawyer that knows our patch inside out. Knowing the local surveyors and solicitors personally is vital to the

successful management of your case. We can identify potential issues before they arise and deal with them minimising any stress or expense. The web maybe full of information but an experienced local agent will know how to use this and in what context. Saying the wrong thing and the wrong time will cost you greatly.

Just by reading this will make you realise how passionate we are about you and helping you achieve your goal. Speak to friends and family and ask them which agents they have used and would they use them again. Recommendation is by far the best advice.

Our advice however is to call a few agents, see what they have to say and focus on finding one that works for you and has a personal interest. You want to ensure that the person who you meet when they are valuing your home will also will also be with you for the completion date too. So often staff in corporate and internet agencies change like the wind and you need continuity. Choosing an agent who will guide you from start to finish will pay huge dividends both financially and stress wise.

Easton just ask for the opportunity to prove what we can do and allow our experience, empathy and determination to benefit you. After all it’s fair to

say the difference in fee may be hundreds but the cost of bad negotiation and the choice of agent will cost you thousands.

Pre Contract Deposits

Ever since covid we have been insistent on buyers lodging a nominal £500 pre contract deposit. The reason we do this is to eradicate time wasters or non sincere buyers. We acted very quickly after the covid era when we’d put a house on the market, get flooded with viewings and offers only to have the successful bidder withdraw their offer within days and we had to go through the whole scenario again. Then exactly the same happened next time round. By instigating the deposit scheme were able to weed out timewasters and focus on really genuine buyers. After all if they aren’t prepared to lodge a £500 deposit then how serious are they?

We do however give them a get out clause for the following reasons –

1. The property fails on survey

2. A defective title or legal issues that cannot be resolved means they have to withdraw

3. You as the seller were to withdraw from the transaction

4. The chain were to collapse through no fault of the buyer

5. A serious issue or health problem forced them to withdraw

Yet if they chose to withdraw at anytime then the £500 will be transferred to you to help contribute towards legal costs.

If the lawyers haven’t allowed for the £500 in the contract then we’ll return it to the buyer in full immediately upon exchange of contracts. Its simple go through with the deal and you won’t lose the £500. This also helps you as a buyer when you can say to the onward seller or estate agent that your buyer has already lodged a pre contract deposit.

Electrimec Ltd is a Hampshire-based, NIC EIC approved contractor oﬀering all aspects of electrical work from heavy industrial to commercial & domestic Fully qualiﬁed & insured, reliable electrical contractor with 21+ years experience in the industry

THINKING OF MOVING HOME?

The Waring Partnership has helped thousands of people sell their properties and move to new homes. It’s one of our core services, so that’s why you can rest assured that you’re in good hands with us.

And it’s not just residential sales and purchases that we specialise in. We can also help with auctions, investment properties, commercial leases, and the sales and

purchases of businesses. Regardless of your need, we’ve got the experience and knowledge to put your mind at ease.

Our professional and friendly staff will guide you through the process, help you make sense of the jargon, and all with the minimum of fuss. So if you’re thinking of moving, get in touch with the Waring Partnership today.

Conveyancing • Family Law • Wills & Probate

8 Marsh Parade, Hythe Tel: 023 8084 9381

info@the-waring-partnership.com www.the-waring-partnership.com

15 Water Lane, Totton Tel: 023 8066 0010

Your Trusted Legal Experts in Hampshire and Beyond...

At The Waring Partnership, we’re more than just solicitors – we’re your dedicated partners in navigating life’s legal complexities. With offices in Hythe and Totton, Hampshire, we combine local accessibility with national reach, ensuring exceptional service for every client. Our mission is simple: to make legal services transparent, convenient, and tailored to your needs.

Why Choose Us

Expertise You Can Rely On

Every case is personally overseen by a qualified solicitor, ensuring your matter is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Whether you’re buying your first home, drafting a will, or navigating family law, you’ll benefit from real specialism and decades of experience.

Convenience That Fits Your Life

Visit us at our offices for a confidential discussion in our private meeting rooms, or choose a virtual appointment via Zoom, Teams, or FaceTime – the choice is yours.

Transparent Services, Honest Pricing

We believe in clarity. From our expertise to our fees, we’re open about every aspect of our service, so you always know what to expect.

Our Services

Conveyancing

Moving home or expanding your business? Our property law team, led by Andrea Waring, ensures your transaction proceeds smoothly and stress-free. Whether it’s residential conveyancing, commercial leases, or buying and selling businesses, we’re here to help.

Wills and Probate

Planning for the future? Let our experienced team guide you through drafting wills, creating trusts, and

managing estates with sensitivity and care. Matthew Knight, our specialist with substantial expertise, also offers Notary Public services for your convenience.

Family Law

Life’s transitions can be challenging. Our family law experts provide pragmatic, tailored advice, from divorce and financial settlements to child custody matters. With fixed fee options and personalised packages, we deliver value and support to suit your unique circumstances.

Our Flexible Consultation Options

We offer two initial consultation packages:

Package 1: A one-hour consultation for £150 (including VAT).

Package 2: A one-hour consultation with a full typed attendance note for £210 (including VAT).

Our fixed price divorce package starts at £500 (plus VAT and expenses), with further fixed fee options available after an initial consultation.

Let’s Talk

Whether you’re seeking expert advice or a trusted solicitor for ongoing support, we’re here to help. Contact us today to arrange your consultation and discover how we can assist with your legal needs.

The Waring Partnership LLP 8 Marsh Parade Hythe Hants SO45 6AN

Tel: 02380 849381

Email: info@the-waring-partnership.com

Interior Design Trends for 2025 and Beyond

Interior design is evolving with a renewed focus on sustainability, personalisation, and cutting-edge technology. Homeowners are embracing trends that reflect their values, lifestyles, and aspirations. Let’s explore the key design directions that will define the future of interiors.

Eco-friendly choices take centre stage

Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a way of life. In 2025, expect an increased demand for eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and biodegradable textiles. Designers are also opting for low-VOC paints, energy-efficient lighting, and furniture crafted with longevity in mind. Sustainability is now seamlessly integrated into every aspect of interior design, ensuring that beauty and ethics go hand in han

Creating harmony between home and nature

The connection between nature and wellbeing continues to influence design choices. Biophilic design will flourish, with more homes incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and water features. Natural materials like stone and rattan, alongside earthy palettes and organic shapes, will dominate interiors. This trend not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes mental health and relaxation.

Spaces that adapt to you

With hybrid work and lifestyle changes here to stay, multifunctional spaces are becoming a necessity. Customisation is key, with furniture and layouts tailored to individual needs. Think modular sofas, foldaway desks, and smart dividers that transform a living room into a home office or a dining area. Homeowners are seeking designs that maximise utility without compromising on style.

The smart home gets smarter

Smart technology will continue to revolutionise interiors. Voice-activated systems, automated lighting, and app-controlled appliances are becoming staples. Beyond functionality, tech will also enhance aesthetics. Imagine colour-changing walls or furniture with built-in wireless charging. The focus is on seamless integration— tech that blends effortlessly into your home’s design.

Final Thoughts

The future of interior design is an exciting blend of innovation, sustainability, and personalisation. Whether you’re redesigning your living room or building a new home, these trends provide endless inspiration to create a space that’s stylish, functional, and uniquely yours. As we look to 2025 and beyond, the focus is clear: interiors that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful.

EASTON LETTINGS

A comprehensive property letting service...

As Residential Letting and Managing Agents we provide a comprehensive property letting service and for first time landlords we offer a free no obligation advice session. This will provide an opportunity to discuss the basic requirements of letting your property and also any pitfalls, which may be encountered. If you are thinking of buying a property to let we will be happy to advise you about its suitability

TENANT FIND SERVICE

• Extensively advertise your property via the internet, local advertising and four local window displays.

• Arrange and conduct viewings with prospective tenants. All of which are accompanied.

• Carry out a full advanced references on all adults intending to live in the property, this reference includes a unique guarantee that we will help remove your tenant from your property should they stop paying their rent. It also includes an insurance that will cover all legal fees involved.

• Prepare our standard tenancy agreement and any other associated documents.

• Collect the deposit (equivalent of 5 week’s rent) together with the first month’s rental due under the terms of the tenancy. The deposit is then lodged with an approved scheme.

• Conduct a check in with the tenant which includes the reading of all meters and approval of the inventory. Please remember your obligations as a landlord – an up to date Gas Safety Certificate, proof of buildings insurance and an Energy Performance Certificate.

FULLY MANAGED SERVICE

If this option is chosen we shall do all of that included in the tenant find option plus –

• Carry out an inspection one month following the check in and then every quarter thereafter. Should we have any concerns then we’ll notify you immediately.

• Provide appliance breakdown and maintenance coverage via a separate party to ourselves. This will obviously be charged to you but fully itemised.

• In an emergency reserve the right to carry out required repairs. These repairs will be deducted from the rental income.

• Collect the monthly rent and pay this directly to you minus our fee. Should the rent not be paid or be late again we shall notify you accordingly.

• Conduct a check out to ensure correct meter readings are noted and the property left in a satisfactory condition.

• Return the deposit to the tenant at the end of the term subject to the property being vacated. If you or an appointed representative wishes to inspect the property then we ask for this to be conducted within ten days of the tenant departing.

• Send you monthly statements itemising any income and expenditure.

We ask that in disputes over damages between landlord and tenant that the agent’s decision is final.

LANDLORD SCALE OF CHARGES

- FULLY MANAGED SERVICE

• Property Valuation

• Advertising and Marketing

• Arrange and accompany all viewings

• Find and fully reference suitable tenants

• Register deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme

• Prepare a legally up to date Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement

• Prepare and provide a Full colour inventory

• Attend the Check In, take meter readings and notify utility companies

• Telephone and face to face contact for both landlord and tenant

• Emergency out of hours telephone number for maintenance issues

• Periodic inspection reports sent in writing or by email

• All maintenance jobs arranged and monitored

• Monthly rental collection

• Prepare and issue all relevant up to date and legal notices.

LET ONLY SERVICE

• Property Valuation

• Advertising and Marketing

• Arrange and accompany all viewings

• Find and fully reference suitable tenants

• Register deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme

• Prepare a legally up to date Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement

• Prepare and provide a Full colour inventory

• Attend the Check In, take meter readings and notify utility companies

TENANT FIND

• Property Valuation

• Advertising and Marketing

• Arrange and accompany all viewings

• Find and fully reference suitable tenants

TENANT REFERENCING AND PROGRESS PROCEDURE

Should you find one of our properties suitable after an internal viewing then we will provide you with the appropriate referencing forms for you to complete. Please note you will NOT be charged for this yet the landlord of this particular property is insistent on a full reference of their choice being provided before any tenancy will be granted. Nor will you be charged a fee if a guarantor is needed.

Once the forms have been completed and returned we shall require a holding deposit equivalent to one weeks rent to be lodged immediately. This is will then be deducted from your first months rent subject to a satisfactory reference being obtained. Upon receipt of this holding deposit the property will be removed from the market and marked as let subject to contract. We will also provide you with a draft copy of our Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement.

In the event that either us or our landlord withdraw the property from yourselves then your holding deposit will be returned in full within 7 days. If you however provide false or misleading information, fail the referencing process , withdraw from the property through your own choice then our landlord can indeed retain this holding deposit. Should this be the case then we will confirm by email or in writing why this is the case.

Once the application has been approved we will arrange a date that you wish the tenancy to commence.

Pets are not accepted as standard however if you have a pet and the landlord agrees then no fee will be charged or increased deposit will be taken. Your landlord however may wish to charge a higher rent each month for pets to be considered.

A short hold tenancy agreement will be drawn up between you and your landlord.

A detailed inventory will be carried out and listed with colour photographs and a condition report of which you will be given a copy.

Your deposit will be registered with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if the property is managed by ourselves or if in the case of the landlord managing we will inform you of the custodial scheme chosen.

On the day that you move in we will carry out a ‘check in’ service at the property to hand over keys, take meter readings and go through the inventory and provide copies of all necessary legal paperwork.

Make your house move easy with

EASTON REMOVALS

Home Removals

Having seen so many people let down and struggling for a removal company on this vital day we quickly identified the need to offer this service and now see this element continuing to grow.

We operate anywhere in the UK with a simple ethos in mind, to make your move easier!

From studio flats to detached family homes we are here to make your move easier. It is often said that the best investment you can make on moving day is to hire the services of a removal company. With all the running around and collection of keys, allow us to take the pressure off and put everything in the new home where it should be.

Our operatives will take meticulous care of your possessions to ensure a smooth transition is achieved anywhere in the UK. Whether it’s a man and van to a full packing and removal service, call us now to arrange our Removal Manager to come along and discuss your requirements. Our quotes are completely free of charge and conducted under no obligation. Professional, hard working and putting people first!

MOVING HOME?

As one of the leading removal companies in Southampton and New Forest areas Easton Removals can safely deliver your goods, whether it’s a few miles or a few hundred miles. With years of experience in House Removals, Eastons can help you.

Call us today on 023 8024 3866

Home Moving

Built on high standards. Once you have decided to move call Eastons and we will arrange for one of our experienced team around to discuss your requirements. From heavy removals like pianos, to packing precious chinaware Eastons will make your move easier!

Boxes and packaging

Easton Removals offers a full packing service. Our team will come prior to your move and pack all your possessions ready for your move, this frees up your time and lets you concentrate on your move.

Secure storage

Easton Removals works in conjunction with Strongroom Storage. We can offer great deals on secure storage. With 24/7 access and CCTV monitoring.

BEFORE YOU BUY, MAKE SURE YOU

• Be prepared to view as soon as possible – the best properties in the market generate the most interest, so don’t waste time when it comes to buying your new home

• Put yourself in a position to buy – qualify yourself for a mortgage as soon as possible. When buying a property it is worth providing your estate agent with as much information as possible, from your property being chain free to your readiness to proceed with the purchase.

• Multiple viewings – try and view the property more than once at different times of the day especially at weekends, when everyone is at home and at rush hour to check how local roads may be affected by congestion. If this property is to be yours, then you need to have as much information as possible about not only the house but also the surrounding area.

• Look beneath the surface – when buying a house it is important to make an impartial judgement based on every aspect of the property. Make sure you distinguish between major work and ‘cosmetic’ work. Don’t let your judgment be clouded.

• Protect yourself – property surveys maybe expensive but

NEW FOREST SKIP BAG

they can uncover any major defects which may help you renegotiate on price or even reconsider the purchase.

• Location, location, location – research the local schools, shops, parking, transport, journey to work and neighbours to get a good feel of what it will be like to live there. Your dream house may not be so idyllic upon further investigation.

• Don’t rule out offering the full asking price - if you find your ideal home and it is priced correctly, consider offering the full asking price to avoid losing out. By bidding correctly and accurately for your desired property you stand a much greater chance of securing the house without being outbid or rivalled. Ask lots of direct questions about the property – if this is going to be the property of your dreams then ask as many questions as you can about it. Remember to ask about any previous building work that has been undertaken, as well as any major faults that have been highlighted.

• Remember, the estate agent works for the vendor – the agent is working on behalf of the seller so be willing and eager to view properties so that you’re top of the agent’s list to call. Stay in regular contact so they are aware of your interest in their properties.

• Don’t be put off by a property that is on the market at a low price compared to others in the area – in this housing market some of the best deals are sold on behalf of developers and lenders and are priced to sell quickly. These properties include some of the best value houses around, so remember to give these your consideration.

Mortgage & Protection Planning

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ENERGY SAVING IN YOUR HOME

Ask the right questions

Whether you’re looking to buy a or rent a new home or wondering how to assess your own home, here’s what to look out for to make sure your energy bills are as low as they can be.

Check the Energy Performance Certificate rating

All domestic and commercial buildings in the UK available to buy or rent must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). If you own a home, getting an energy performance survey done could help you identify ways to save money on your energy bills. Much like the multi-coloured sticker on new appliances, EPCs tell you how energy efficient a building is and give it a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient): the lower the efficiency, the more the home will cost to run.

How is the home heated?

Gas heating costs a lot less to run and is more energy efficient than electric alternatives. Ask the landlord or seller to leave behind any heating control instructions so you can set your controls to only heat the rooms you want to. If they can’t find them, you can download them from the manufacturers’ website. Check if radiators can be adjusted in each room, whereby you can heat the rooms you need.

Is the loft insulated?

Loft insulation is one of the most efficient ways to keep heat from escaping in a home. The thickness of the insulation plays an important role but it’s easy to top up if there’s some there but not enough. 270mm is the recommended depth. To give an idea of cost savings, topping up from 100mm to 270mm can save around £25 a year on heating bills.

What’s in the walls?

A third of the heat in an un-insulated home is lost through the walls. There are two wall types – solid walls and cavity walls. Both can be insulated to improve the energy efficiency of a property. If the home was built from 1920 onwards there is a good chance it has cavity walls. A home with uninsulated cavity walls could cost up to £140 more to run each year than one with insulated cavities, so it’s worth finding out the state of play. If you’ve fallen in love with a home with uninsulated cavity walls, it’s not difficult to get it fixed. Installation

costs are about £450 to £500 but you should make this back in about four years.

Homes built before 1920 are likely to have solid walls. Solid walls may sound like they should be better at keeping in heat but unfortunately the opposite is true. Uninsulated solid walls can lose heat twice as fast as uninsulated cavity walls, but insulating them could save over £460 each year – so if you’re looking to move into an older build, make sure you ask about the insulation.

The newer the boiler, the better

The latest boilers are a lot more energy efficient than older models. Check the age of the boiler and if it is Energy Saving Trust recommended. If the landlord/seller doesn’t know, you can find out the energy efficiency of different boilers at the Boilers.org.uk website. Boilers have energy ratings, much in the same way as homes. Once again, A is the most energy efficient and G is the lowest. Replacing a G rated boiler could save around £310 a year on running costs.

Look out for draughts

Check round windows and doors for gaps. If it’s a windy day and a home is particular draughty, you can often hear the whistle of wind as it sweeps through the property. It’s quite easy to draught proof homes and there are lots of DIY options available. Draught proofing can save up to £55 a year on heating costs.

Save water, save money

A water meter is a great way to keep in control of your water usage and stop you flushing money down the drain. Check the home for dripping taps, which can waste gallons of water a day. It’s also worth asking if the shower has an energy saving shower head. These save water and money but still give you a powerful shower experience.

The lighter way to save energy

Does the property have energy saving light bulbs or fittings? If so, will the landlord or seller be leaving these light bulbs behind? If not, invest in your own before you move in.

LIGHT UP YOUR HOME

The right lighting in your home can add style, atmosphere and warmth as well practicality. There are options on the market for all budgets, rooms and purposes.

Consider the room

Before you head out to the local DIY store, it’s essential to consider the room itself. The amount of natural light entering the room will play an important role. While a sunny, south-facing living room may be flooded with daylight much of the year round, that north-facing spare bedroom may require a bolder lighting approach. Also look at features or work areas that would benefit from specific mood or task lighting. With your room in mind, you will be better placed to find the perfect solution, both practical and atmospheric.

Living room

As the room where many of us spend much of their time, the living room requires a combination of functional and mood lighting. A ceiling pendant or recessed down lighters are great if you want a brightly-lit room, but often a softer approach is required. Table or standard lamps that throw the light upwards can help to achieve a cosy glow, while accent lights can add visual interest by highlighting a stylish piece of furniture, ornament or painting.

Dining room

As a place that is generally used for entertainment, the dining room requires overhead lighting that enables dinner guests to see each other, but come coffee time, a little mood lighting goes a long way. Track lights or a pendant directly over a feature dining table are ideal for conversation, but try up lighters or standard lamps for an ambient after dinner light.

Kitchen

Task lighting is a must in the kitchen to ensure that work surfaces are well-lit. Under-cupboard lights do just that, while track lighting of recessed ceiling spotlights can also help to highlight particular areas for utilitarian purposes. If your kitchen is also the social hub of the house, consider wall lights or halogen spotlights, perhaps with a dimmer to soften the clinical feel.

Bathroom

Much like the kitchen, a pendant or down lights are a must for what is often the room with the least amount of natural light. But halogen spotlights focused on the shower, or basin can soften the brightness - particularly useful if you tend to use an ensuite during the night! There are plenty of bathroom mirrors with lights inbuilt on the market, which are great if you spend a lot of time primping and preening, while a dimmer switch can set the tone for that all-important long, luxurious bubble bath, ensuring that the lighting method is compliant with health & safety regulations of course!

Bedroom

The bedroom requires both atmosphere and practicality. While you don’t want to be stumbling about in the night, you won’t want to wake your partner either. Well placed, a down light or floor lamp offers a pool of light that shouldn’t disturb the sleeping partner, while bedside lamps are a must if you’re a night time reader. Light bulbs in softer colours will create a more peaceful atmosphere.