The kent commuter September 2017

AN ESSENTIAL MONTHLY PROPERTY GUIDE FOR ANYONE MOVING OUT OF LONDON – FROM TIMES LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

P EEK U FRPIC

TO

S EP T EM BER Ed i t i on

Oh we do like to be beside the seaside…

HOT PROPERTY NEWS

Mortgages on the move Recently published figures from the Bank of England show that mortgage approvals for house purchases were ‘stronger than recent months’, picking up pace to levels seen at the start of the year.

There were 68,689 loans getting the green light in July, while approvals for re-mortgaging were also stronger at 46,231 for the period.

Switch and save

Dymchurch Beach (Image courtesy of Visit Kent)

Thinking of buying a property on the coast? Then it really is plain sailing thanks to the amount of scenic seaside gems available in Kent. Eileen Leahy reveals where you’ll get most for your money and also how choosing a coastal retreat can boost your sense of well-being too…

I

f you spent your summer splashing about on a beach somewhere then chances are you may just have toyed with the idea of what it would be like to live so close to the sea and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer all year round.

Well how about turning that day dream into a firm reality by considering a move to the coast? Kent is blessed with glorious stretches of coastline which boast everything from charming traditional destinations such as Sandwich and St Margaret’s Bay to the funkier alternatives of Whitstable and Margate. It

also has one of the country’s highest number of blue flag beaches which means they are environmentally sound, safe to bathe in and family friendly.

‘KENT IS BLESSED WITH GLORIOUS STRETCHES OF COASTLINE’ So if you’re considering the idea of getting closer to the ocean then remember that if your budget is limited it makes sense not to

aim for the more well-known places as you’ll pay a premium due to their touristic currency. Instead why not look to the smaller enclaves dotted along the coastline which runs approximately from Rainham in the north of the county down to Lydd in the south.

There are plenty of places to visit and check out to see if they suit your requirements and thanks to excellent rail links throughout Kent you can be sitting in a deck chair or enjoying an ice cream along a promenade in no time.

See page 2 for more on coastal living >>

UK households forked out an extra £7.3 billion over the last five years by remaining customers of the Big Six energy firms, a new report shows.

Ofgem data compiled by energy provider Bulb found that families who held accounts with the biggest firms - including British Gas, SSE, E.ON, Npower, EDF and Scottish Power - for at least five years paid out an average £853 more than they needed to.

It’s tough at the top According to new research from EstateAgent4Me properties that are worth £2 million or more are struggling to sell with agents having to reduce asking prices by an average of £260,000. In the middle range (£200,000 – £500,000) discounts are at their smallest, with the average reduction on the asking price only around 3%.

KentCommuter

2 | the

Lesser well known spots may not enjoy the popularity of the bigger or quirkier places such as Broadstairs and Ramsgate but they’re still on the coast and are more than likely to have a good array of affordable housing where you’ll get a lot more for your money.

First you’ll need to do your research visiting various places to see what suits or doesn’t.

Paula Higgins, chief executive, of industry experts Homeowners Alliance, says: “Of course, different locations suit different folk but what’s important is that you consider everything you want and need from a property before making any rash decisions.

“Depending on your age and family situation you may be prioritising good school, excellent transport links or good local amenities but it makes sense to add your health to the list too.”

And, according to Paula, there’s now plenty of research which shows that living in a coastal property can have many benefits for both your physical and mental health.

“A major study by the University of Exeter in 2015 found that proximity to the coast was positively associated with good health,” she explains.

Ben Wheeler, a public health expert from the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry at Exeter University, revealed the reasons for this could be attributed to the fact that the sea had a ‘calming influence’ on people, or that those who lived near it

had ‘an added incentive to get out and about’.

Exeter University’s findings are backed up by researchers in the United States too. According to Professor Amber Pearson, of Michigan State University, the calming tranquil colour of the sea plays a big role in those living near the coast enjoying a better sense of well-being: “Increased views of blue space is significantly associated with lower levels of psychological distress.”

The report is the first of its kind to find a link between health and the visibility of water.

‘A MAJOR STUDY IN 2015 FOUND THAT PROXIMITY TO THE COAST WAS POSITIVELY ASSOCIATED WITH GOOD HEALTH’

Well-being A recent survey by housebuilder McCarthy & Stone where they questioned 2700 of their customers to find out which was their favourite seaside town, Deal in Kent made it into the top ten. And with its beautiful beach and charming historic centre which is bustling with all manner of cool cafés and independent shops it’s easy to see why.

Other places you could consider include Cooden Beach, thanks to its wide stretch of coast, smart hotel and clusters of charming seaside cottages it is definitely worth a visit.

Romney Marsh also has plenty of appealing coastal nooks and crannies to explore including Dungeness and there’s lots to enjoy in the St Mildred’s Bay area which is a short stroll from Westgate and not too far from the busier town of Margate.

So if you are currently stuck on a crowded train overlooking row after row of houses in a built up area then isn’t now the perfect time to close your eyes or look beyond those crowded rooftops and start visualising how you can escape to the tranquillity of the sea?

Find the right spot and you’ll see that you’ll get far more for your money property wise, and also a raft of other benefits including great walks, fresh fish and an increased sense of well being.

What’s not to love?

Minster Beach

Ramsgate Harbour

Images courtesy of Visit Kent

Continued from page 1

September 2017

It’s a family affair when it comes to buying your second home A recent report has discovered that one in three ‘second steppers’ need financial support from family and friends to move up the property ladder Research, carried out by Lloyds Bank, reveals that the Bank of Mum and Dad is providing additional financial support to help loved ones make the move up from their first home.

It also found that almost a third of existing owners think they will still need to rely on financial support from family and friends, and over a third admitted that without financial help, they wouldn’t be able to take the next rung up on the property ladder.

The research found that 50 per cent of those surveyed also required help with the deposit on their first property.

The average loan first time buyers received from family and friends the first time around reached £21,512, only slightly more than they hoped to borrow again (£21,231) from parents or grandparents to take the next step on the housing ladder.

With one in four second steppers thinking it is now harder to move up the property ladder than to get on it in the first place, 41 per cent have been overpaying their mortgage to increase their equity and a third (34 per cent) have increased the amount that they save every month.

The research also revealed that 65 per cent have either continued to save or

started to save since they moved into their first property.

‘PARENTAL SUPPORT CONTINUES TO PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE TO GET ON THE PROPERTY LADDER’ Almost a quarter of first time sellers admitted to putting off having children until they have sold their first home, (23 per cent) or have fewer children than originally planned (12 per cent) due to challenges faced with being a first time seller.

Andy Mason, mortgage director at Lloyds Bank, said: “Parental support continues to play a vital role in helping young people to get on the property ladder. However it is clear that despite improved conditions for this part of the housing market, second steppers will still rely on the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ with hard-pressed parents being once again called on for financial help.”

Lack of affordable property, the cost of stamp duty tax and potential changes to interest rates are all notable issues raised within the report as being on second steppers minds as they plan their next move.

theKentCommuter | 3

September 2017

The View From The Estate Agent Buying a new home can be a stressful and daunting experience but it needn’t be so. Ian Harris from NAEA Propertymark explains how you can secure the sale of your perfect property by following these simple steps…

“Putting an offer forward to purchase a house can be quite a big thing but by considering these points of guidance will hopefully help make the process smoother for you.

The first thing is preparation. The more you can do the better, so that you go into the whole process comfortable and confident. Doing your research on other properties in the area is also important so that you’re comfortable that the price you’re going to pay for a particular property is the right one.

Look at other properties in the area of a similar size and period style so that you understand the pricing.

The other thing to do is to start getting your documents ready. Work out where your money is going to come from and have that documented, so you have proof of funds. Speak to your mortgage adviser and ideally try to get a mortgage agreement in principle in place so that you can say confidently to the estate agent ‘I’ve got the money organised’.

The issue of identification or ID is also vital if you’re purchasing jointly as you will need to produce ID to the

estate agent. This is new legislation that has come in very recently so don’t be surprised if you’re asked for his.

‘THE MORE PREPARATION YOU CAN DO, THE BETTER’ The next thing to do, of course, is to get that offer put in. Usually, the next step in the process is to ring the estate agent - or go into their office - so it’s done verbally. When you do this make sure you have all the relevant information to hand as when you put an offer in the estate agent’s going to want to take all kinds of information down. They’ll ask you about where the money is going to come from and there may be conversations about how quickly you can go ahead with the purchase as well.

Then the estate agent’s role is to put the offer forward to the seller. And so that conversation will go on and then the estate agent will come back to you, and the there’s that moment of truth.

Is it a yes or is it a no?

If your first offer is accepted then

that’s a very definite champagne moment. But if it’s a no, you can always go back and reconsider. I’d suggest not making your best offer first as this way you’ve got some scope to increase it to perhaps a more attractive level for the seller.

During that whole process, the estate agent may offer you some assistance with perhaps, mortgage or solicitors or other advice along the way. Remember that you’re not obliged to accept those services and if you’ve got your own arrangements in place, that’s fantastic.

But the estate agent’s there to help you to buy that house, so if you think, ‘actually I could do with some assistance’ there then take it from the estate agent and hopefully that will result in the whole purchase getting agreed and you moving into your dream home in the not too distant future.

All that important preparation you’ll have done in making an offer will help the whole process go far smoother and faster than it might have otherwise done had you not been one step ahead of the game…

Win a true taste of Kent To celebrate the launch of its new Peters Village development omes are giving one Kent Commuter near Wouldham, Orbit Homes reader the chance to win an exclusive ‘Best of Kentish Living Gourmet Hamper’. Read on to find out how…

Orbit is offering new homeowners the very best of Kentish living at its Kiln View development, which is part of the fabulous new Peters Village community, nestled next to the River Medway near Wouldham.

Peters Village promises to be an idyllic place to live, with all the trappings of traditional village life, but offering a superb standard of modern living, local facilities, and excellent transport links to London and other major towns and cities, thanks to the newly opened Peters Bridge that spans the River Medway.

Kiln View is an enclave of delightful houses and apartments, built in accordance with Peters Village’s overarching

architectural vision: to provide homes that are traditional, yet durable, and in keeping with the natural beauty and vernacular style of the area.

Three and four bedroom houses are currently available for outright sale, with Help to Buy*, from £392,995, and two bedroom apartments will be available from around £269,000 from September.

To showcase some of the delights of the Kentish lifestyle, Orbit is offering readers the chance to win a bespoke, luxury willow hamper from The Kent Hamper Company, packed with a selection of Kent-made artisan food and locally produced wines. The hamper is worth £350 and includes free delivery

to the lucky winner. (Entrants must be over 18) Further information on buying homes at Kiln View, and on the Help to Buy Scheme, is available by contacting Orbit on: 01634 567896 or by visiting www. orbithomes.ork.uk *Help to Buy is a government-back equity scheme available to all new home buyers. You require a 5% deposit to qualify and the government will lend you up to 20% of the purchase price, meaning you only need to secure up to a 75% mortgage.

To enter simply leave your name and address at www.orbithomes.org.uk/KentCommuter (Terms and conditions apply)

Is Brexit to blaim for the lack of buyer confidence?

House prices have dropped in August amid fears that pressure on household finances from Brexit-fuelled inflation is hitting buyer confidence, according to an index.

Nationwide Building Society said property values fell for the first time since May, down 0.1% month on month in August to an average of £210,495.

This saw the annual rate of growth fall from 2.9% in July to 2.1%, which was also the weakest since May, when the yearly rate hit its lowest level for four years.

Annual house price growth has more than halved over the past year, having stood at 5.6% last August.

Nationwide said the slowdown was further signs of a cooling property market and wider economy and suggested the impact of

soaring prices outstripping wage growth may be taking its toll.

Robert Gardner, chief economist at Nationwide, said: “It may be that mounting pressure on household finances is exerting a drag.

‘DEVELOPMENTS DEPEND ON WIDER ECONOMICS’ “Wages have been failing to keep up with the cost of living in recent months and consumer sentiment has weakened.”

He added: “Ultimately, housing market developments will depend on wider economic performance.

“The UK economy slowed noticeably in the first half of the year, and there has been little to suggest a significant rebound in the months ahead.”

Editor Eileen Leahy eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk Art Director Lee Smith lsmith8@markerstudy.com Production Daniella Gavin

dgavin@markerstudy.com

Commercial Director Nick Moore

nmoore@markerstudy.com Contact sales: 01892 774781

jrose@markerstudy.com jreville@markerstudy.com

ONE MEDIA AND CREATIVE UK LTD 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU 01892 779 650 • www.one-media.co

KentCommuter

4 | the

September 2017

Make virtual sales a reality

Conventional wisdom says that first impressions are made on a property’s doorstep, but local YOPA agent in Kent, Osmond Brown, says that minds have already been made up before a buyer has even arrived at and looked around the house With ‘online shopping’ for a new home becoming increasingly popular, buyers typically form their opinion before they’ve stepped foot in the property.

Most don’t even give homes with bad photos or otherwise poor online adverts a chance. That’s why it’s vital to craft the perfect listing.”

Here Osmond Brown shares his top tips in order to create the perfect online listing to entice potential buyers…

Set the stage ‘Staging’ is the process of making the home attractive to buyers by packaging it in a neutral yet welcoming way, designed to help them imagine living there.

Simple steps like placing folded towels in the bathroom or fresh flowers in the living room can speed up your sale and boost your chances of achieving your full asking price.

Flick through home design magazines or head online for inspiration - the possibilities are endless.

Inspirational interiors When photographing the home, use a tripod set about a metre off the ground.

Photos that sit below eye level look more like the professional-quality ones seen in magazines. If you don’t have the luxury of a tripod, kneeling with a steady hand will do just fine! And remember, houses have good and bad angles, just like people do.

Hook, line and sinker The top line of your listing needs to pop.

Work hard to sum up the home in one

sentence. It’s tricky, but crafting that perfect opening will ensure a buyer keeps scrolling!

The juicy bits Rambling descriptions in a property advert can be a real turnoff. Keep it digestible and break down key features in punchy bullet points.

Paint a picture of a lifestyle. Kent’s surroundings are diverse: if you’re selling up by the sea in Margate, then focus on the reasons it’s great to live by the coast; in more urban areas like Gravesend, mention how long it takes to walk to the local pub or school.

Don’t:

■ Overuse capitals, exclamations and

symbols. **WOW MUST SEE PROPERTY!** This hasn’t worked since eBay in 2005! It can make buyers worry that you’re covering something up.

■ Include anything negative. If your home needs some renovation, point out the opportunities for buyers looking for a place with potential to make their own.

Do:

■ Check, check and check again. Typos

and grammar mistakes in a listing impact a buyer’s ability to take it seriously. Slip ups like ‘stainless steal features’ are all too common.

■ Name drop. If you splashed out on name brands for your interiors be sure to mention it! That goes for any noteworthy design or architect firms that had a hand in making your property what it is today.

KentCommuter

6 | the

September 2017

Property Portfolio: Moving And Mortgages

Securing the best interest deals and mortgage terms can be very daunting but The Kent Commuter is here to take the stress out of selling – and buying – a property. Read on to find out what’s happening in the world of buying trends and money matters this month…

From first time buyers making a come back to downsizers wondering where to go and new builds falling into favour, it’s been a busy month in the mortgage world. Here’s the latest from industry experts at the HomeOwners Alliance: The return of the first time buyer They’re the so called life blood of the market and it seems they’re back with a bang.

According to latest figures from the UK Finance first time buyers borrowed £5.9 billion in June – 26% more than in the previous month and 9% higher than June 2016.

Paul Smee, head of mortgages at UK Finance said June was particularly busy for the housing sector: “June’s figures show a busy month in the mortgage market, with home-movers having their highest monthly activity levels for over a year and an especially high number of loans for first time buyers.” If you’re a first time buyer and you’re not sure where to start when buying a house take a look at the HomeOwners Alliance guide to First Time Buyer Mortgages which can be found on their website.

Mind the gap There’s a lack of family homes, they say.

Older homeowners should be downsizing, they say. What they don’t say of course

is that there is a clear lack of properties for those homeowners to actually move to. Indeed, a new report by equity release provider Key Partnerships found 56% of

estate agents believe there is a shortage of properties suitable for downsizers while for older buyers with mobility problems the situation is even worse with 68% of agents saying there are not enough homes for these buyers.

New build? No problem There was a time when borrowers looking to buy a new build property would struggle with mortgage finance. Lenders weren’t keen on the properties given the fact they essentially drop in value as soon as they’re bought but many are now more accepting of the properties and this week the Principality building society showed just how accepting it is by enhancing its new build range. The lender will now lend up to 90% loan to value (LTV) on new build properties, up from 85%. Amazing when you think of the problems we’ve seen with new builds in recent months.

Mortgage Best Buys You can check out the best mortgage deals on a daily basis by speaking to London and Country on 0800 073 2326. Alternatively have a look at the specialist mortgage advice available from the HomeOwners Alliance website at www.hoa.org.uk

KentCommuter

8 | the

September 2017

Kent’s Top Hot Spots Westgate

The Garden of England, as Kent is affectionately known, is brimming with beautiful villages, cool coastlines and smart, sociable towns. Here are a few places which are proving popular right now…

Westgate: With its sandy beach, pleasant array of independent shops and cafés and mainline station Westgate-on-Sea, to give its official moniker, is a very good choice to consider if you want to escape to the coast.

Commute: London Victoria, 1 hour 38 minutes. Frequency of trains: 3 per hour (peak). First train: 5.59am; last train home: 00.07am. Annual season ticket: £5,004.

Location: This charming little seaside enclave can be found in northeast Kent on the coast of the Thames Estuary. It’s a gentler, quainter alternative to the nearby bigger resort of Margate and also close to the popular spots of Broadstairs and Ramsgate. The fact it is also served by a

Sevenoaks: Out of all the commuter towns Sevenoaks is probably one of Kent’s most sought-after.

This is because of its close proximity to London by train but also its appealing town centre which boasts lots of independent shops, restaurants and leisure facilities. It also has an excellent variety of schools and properties.

Commute: Sevenoaks trains service the London Charing Cross, Cannon Street and Blackfriars lines with trains taking approximately 30 minutes at the busiest of times.

Frequency of trains: 4 per hour (peak). First train: 05.17 am; last

train home: 00.15am. Annual season ticket: £4,052.

Location: This historic market town is situated in West Kent, just 21 miles from London. It’s well served in terms of both road and rail connections to the capital, countryside and the coast. The A21, A225 and M25 are within easy reach and Gatwick airport is approximately 30 minutes by car.

In addition to the mainline station at Sevenoaks there are also smaller ones at nearby Bat and Ball, Dunton Green and Otford.

Why pick Sevenoaks: This characterful town was named after seven oak trees set on the Sevenoaks Vine, one of the oldest cricket venues in England. The great storm of 1987 destroyed six of them but over the years more trees have been replanted and there are now eight.

Surrounding the historic centre are a number of attractions including The Stag Theatre and the National Trust’s Knole House, one of England’s largest and most impressive homes with 365 rooms. It is set in Knole Park, which is 1000 acres in size and where The Beatles filmed music videos for ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’ and ‘Penny Lane’ in 1967.

good rail network with direct routes in and out of London makes it attractive for commuters who work in the capital.

Why pick Westgate: It’s a good place to relocate to if you are after a gentler pace of life. The ambience here is more laid back compared to the buzz of nearby Margate but the town has plenty of amenities if you do want to get out and about doing things. As well as a library, cinema and tennis courts there is also a pavilion which stages many shows and is also available to hire for events. The nearby resorts of St Mildred’s Bay and West Bay are the town’s top seaside attractions. Westgate-on-Sea is also famous for being the location of a Royal Naval Air Service, which defended the area during World War I.

Sevenoaks

theKentCommuter | 9

September 2017 Dartford: This historic market town is one of the most popular commuter bases for those working in London. With a good selection of retail outlets, restaurants, schools and local amenities it has everything covered for those who want to set up a life outside of the capital but still be within easy reach of it.

Commute: Direct trains into London Charing Cross and Cannon Street, take

Dartford

High Halstow

around 37 minutes, at peak periods. Frequency of trains: 4 per hour (peak). First train: 5.01am; last train home: 00.44am.

Annual season ticket: £2,444.

Location: Located 18 miles from central London, Dartford is also within easy reach of the London Borough of Bexley to the west while Thurrock in Essex is to the north and can be reached via the Dartford Crossing.

Why pick Dartford: Although Dartford is a little more on the urban side of things it still retains an appealing small town character courtesy of its independent shops and businesses and historic places of interest. These include The Manor Gatehouse, which was home to Henry VIII’s fourth wife Anne of Cleves. Jane Austen is rumoured to have stayed in Dartford and it’s where some of The Rolling Stones grew up. If you don’t want to stray too far from culture then Dartford has plenty to offer including several theatres and a museum. It’s also home to 11 churches, most of which were included in the Domesday Book. The most notable of these is the Holy Trinity which can be found in the town centre.

High Halstow: With its links to Charles Dickens and mention in the Domesday Book this village certainly has an historic heart to it. With a primary school, pub and church it has all the hallmarks of a tranquil country dwelling but is also well connected to the nearby town of Rochester.

Commute: The nearest station to High Halstow is Higham. Trains run into the final destination of London Charing Cross and take approximately 1 hour. Frequency of trains: 4 per hour (peak). First train: 4.42am; last train home: 00.44am. Annual season ticket: £3,612.

Location: This delightful village is located on the North Kent coast on the Hoo Peninsula which separates the Medway and Thames estuaries. It is approximately 30 miles from London and has good road

links too. In the past the village has been occupied by Romans, Saxons and Normans.

Why pick High Halstow: If you’re after a picturesque country dwelling without a large price tag then this village is ideal. Set in and surrounded by a stunning landscape, including a nature reserve, marshes and perched on a peninsula it’s easy to see why it inspired the great literary giant Charles Dickens to write Great Expectations. The pretty Grade 1listed St Margaret at High Halstow church was also mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and commands impressive views of the rivers Medway and Thames. With so much wide open space encircling it High Halstow is also a great base for keen ramblers and cyclists.

theKentCommuter | 11

September 2017 | Advertising Feature

New development at Cherrywood Faversham shortlisted as a finalist for prestigious national award...

C

herrywood, a select development of energy-efficient, luxury new homes, has recently been shortlisted to the final four in the Sunday Times Best Housing Project Awards. The nomination is a recognition of exceptional quality, vision and sustainable design, conveniently located on the outskirts of Faversham.

This flagship scheme of just 14 new homes on a site of over 3.5 acres has been welcomed by Swale Borough Council as a valuable contribution to help

meet the rising demand for houses in the area. Cherrywood offers a choice of generously proportioned three, four and five bedroom homes, all facing on to a central area of specially planted woodland in a beautifully landscaped setting.

The build will be delivered through the well-respected company, Potton, who have been providing bespoke and high quality homes for more than 50 years, making them one of the leading UK companies

in the industry.

Each fully serviced plot will be ready for these bespoke homes to be built. It offers an exciting opportunity for each new owner to tailor the internal design, including kitchen, bathrooms and finishes to meet their own requirements. This is the ideal opportunity to create the family home they have always dreamed about.* Faversham is a highly desirable, thriving market town with excellent schools, and while it retains its Kentish charm and character, it is very conveniently located within an hour’s travel of London by road or the high-speed rail link direct to St Pancras.

Demand is currently outstripping supply and Faversham saw the highest rise in house prices of any major Kent town at 4.2% in the first six months of this year+.

Through exacting design, residents will also benefit from high air quality, comfortable year-round indoor temperatures, and average cost savings of around 80%^ on fuel bills. Sustainability has been a key consideration in the design of Cherrywood, using some of the latest technology and the most innovative solutions to create a truly unique and exciting place to live, for now and for the future.

Prices for the completed homes are from £550,000 and work is due to start on site this autumn. Reservations are being taken now through RPC Land and New Homes (01634 835900) Ward and Partners (01795 535517).

*Subject to an additional fee of £6,500 for a full design and service agreement with Potton and within the existing planning consent. +Source-Kent Life July 2017 ^Low energy, Passivhaus homes typically offer fuel cost savings of around 80% compared to a similar house built to conventional standards.

KentCommuter

12 | the

Britain’s youth has talent so let’s celebrate it As children start or return to school this month, Samantha Price, Headmistress at leading girls’ boarding school Benenden School, urges young people to have confidence in their own talents

September 2017

During the course of the academic year both pupils and staff at Benenden benefit enormously from listening to a wealth of speakers.

One was particularly memorable this past academic year. Having informed the girls that he had not been a high flyer at school and had rarely listened or remembered anything that was said during years of assemblies (not such a strong message!), he said the one thing he had taken away with him from school was that you have a responsibility to use the talents you have to the full and to ensure that you use these beyond school to make a positive contribution. A strong message indeed.

things are listed along with one opportunity for growth, we dwell on the latter?

It tends to be out of a fear of not being good enough, a desire to be seen to be perfect, a fear of not being accepted or worthy enough to truly connect with other people if they see us as we really are: if they see the authentic self.

This is a vulnerability which can hold us back.

Brené Brown, an American scholar, strongly argues that there are two types of people:

‘THE ABUNDANCE OF TALENT I SEE ON A DAILY BASIS NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME’

Confidence The abundance of talent I see on a daily basis honestly never ceases to amaze me.

Within this school community, and many others across the area, are strong intelligent young people brimming with potential to leave school and not only develop their talents further in a myriad of professional landscapes but also to have a voice in tackling the real issues our society face: they can be leaders of tomorrow.

However, nobody would say this is - or indeed is going to be - easy and navigating the workplace and the other pressures we face as a society takes confidence and resilience, particularly for women even in 2017.

I invite you to consider why it is that when we receive feedback from a teacher or, as an adult, from our line manager, where 37 great

those who have a deep sense of worth and those who don’t. Those who do have the courage to be who they are and to be imperfect.

That courage enables them to show compassion to themselves, to put themselves out there, to develop their visions, to manage the challenges and deal with the failures and thereby recognise their responsibility to themselves and therefore others to get out there, use their talents, contribute and make a difference.

SELF BELIEF Young students at Benenden celebrating the end of the academic year and their self-confidence

Without the willingness to accept one’s imperfections, we too easily fall into the vulnerability trap of only developing ourselves as far as we feel safe for that fear of failure or being found out.

To my mind this is one of the single most important factors we need to keep considering in preparing young people, and women in particular, to not only meet the challenges of our times but to place them in a position to have the confidence to be those really positive contributors to our society, which they are equipped and talented enough to do.

I urge young people to have the confidence and the self-belief to go on and make a significant difference. Do not worry about being perfect – what honestly does perfect look like?

– but rather celebrate being who you are – and strive to be the very best version of that self.

theKentCommuter | 13

September 2017

When schools improve the value of your house will also be upgraded Want to know if your house price will rise?

You could start by checking with Ofsted, says consumer journalist Christine Toner If you’re wondering whether the price of your house is likely to rise anytime soon, you’d do well to check out how your local schools have performed in this year’s A Level and GCSE exams, according to new research from Homeowners Alliance.

According to the research, property values in areas with a much-improved school rise faster than the national average.

Homeowners Alliance analysed the GCSE results of every school in the country in 2013 and 2016 and house prices over the same period of time and found that properties in local authority areas that are home to one of the top 50 most improved schools went up by an average of 28.1% between August 2013 and December 2016, almost four percentage points more than the national average of 24.75%.

Commenting on the data, Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of HomeOwners Alliance said: “We know that good schools are a major concern for families and therefore an improving school can really help to increase the demand for housing in the local

area. It’s always very difficult to isolate any one factor as the reason for property price growth, but it is telling that across the country, prices have grown more in local authority areas that are close to a much-improved school. Furthermore, this effect is not contained within London, but spread throughout the country.”

‘WITH A GOOD SCHOOL COMES A PREMIUM PROPERTY PRICE’ Founder and CEO of eMoov.co.uk, Russell Quirk, commented: “Although few and far between, moving home is almost always influenced by three factors in life – work, marriage and kids. While we are happy to make sacrifices on a personal basis to find that perfect home, a longer commute for example, when it comes to our children they are often at the very forefront of our property purchase decision process.

“Many plan years in advance to ensure they are living in the right catchment area once their child comes of age and this ini-

tial foundation can be pivotal to the success of their education. As a result, we’ve seen parents resort to drastic measures such as ghost rentals, just to get their child into a good school. However, with a good school comes a premium property price and so many simply cannot afford to buy where they would like and much like high house prices pushing buyers to the next best location in the surrounding area, it can also have the same impact where schools are concerned.

“If you can’t secure a place for your child at the best school in the area, then a place at the most improved, up and coming school is certainly a good option and a sign that the school itself is on the right tracks. But as savvy parents look to secure a property near these best-improved schools with an eye on their child’s future, the increased level of buyer demand is always going to result in a larger spike in-house price growth surrounding these schools.”

KentCommuter

14 | the

September 2017

TOWN FOCUS: ASHFORD THE LOWDOWN ON

ASHFORD

123,300 total resident population

●●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● The Conservative Party hold a strong majority in the area with 34 councillors out the total 43.

AREA: Ashford lies on the River Great Stour at the south edge of the North Downs, about 61 miles southeast of central London and 15.3 miles northwest of Folkestone by road.

PROPERTY: The majority of sales in Ashford during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £212,875.

Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £255,634.

Detached properties in the area brought an average of £364,119.

Ashford has an overall average price of £249,379.

Overall sold prices in Ashford over the last year were 8% up on the previous year and 18% up on the 2014 level of £211,678.

Information sourced from Office for National Statistics, www.ashford.gov.uk, Right Move.

Ashford epitomises Kent’s enticing blend of both ancient and modern features. This thriving market town boasts international rail links yet is surrounded by idyllic countryside and superb local vineyards. The pretty villages clustered around it are deliciously quaint thanks to their pretty postcard oast houses, hop gardens and orchards.

Village pubs and tea rooms huddle cosily beside cricket greens and green and pleasant landscapes sweep all around. From the swooping majesty of the North Downs to the Weald’s chequerboard of farms and woods, Ashford and its impossibly pretty surroundings have so much to offer.

PROPERTIES: As you would expect, Ashford has a wide range of homes and there are plans to expand even further with new developments over the next few years. Within walking distance of the town centre, the few surviving Georgian and Victorian buildings offer a fascinating glimpse of the original market town. It is easy to imagine your perfect property here – whether that entails ample green spaces in your own plot of land or a sociable apartment in the heart of the busy town. Within Ashford, the areas of Kennington and Willesbor-

ough are very popular as well as newer areas including Park Farm and Orchard Height.

Further afield, the surrounding villages like Wye and Charing are also popular.

ENTERTAINMENT: Ashford also has great entertainment prospects. Not only are there historical landmarks such as the Willesborough windmill and ancient churches, there’s also a fantastic designer outlet shopping centre, located just outside the heart of the town, which boasts great discounts on designer labels like Links of London, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger and more – and therefore guaranteed to satisfy the desires of any thrifty shopaholic. Close connections to Port Lympne Wild Animal Park ensure families are never short of choice for an exciting day out.

HERITAGE: But amid the vast transformations and new developments that have shaped the area, its vibrant past has been beautifully preserved in the medieval, Georgian and Jacobean buildings that line Ashford’s streets. Godinton House, one of Kent’s many historic stately homes, also sits grandly nearby and

is set in 12 acres of beautiful gardens and surrounded by tranquil parkland.

SCHOOLS: Educational establishments in the area are also excellent, with a good variety of nurseries, primary and secondary schools and colleges all dotted around the town and surrounding areas. As leading independent boarding school for ages 0-18, Ashford School boasts a highly impressive reputation. Highworth Grammar School for Girls and The Towers School are also both high achieving schools and Great Chart primary and Norton Knatchbull secondary are both highly rated.

TRAVEL LINKS: Wherever you want to go, there’s a way to get there from Ashford. London is within easy reach with trains running regularly throughout the day to the City as well as other local hotspots, like Canterbury, Dover, Margate, Folkestone and Brighton. Then there’s the scope for international travel, too, as Ashford is home to the Eurostar, you can easily be in France within a couple of hours from this town.

KentCommuter

18 | the

September 2017

John Bullock: Design

Don’t move, improve If you would like more space, then why not explore the possibility of extending your property – and save yourself the stress of moving?

Your Question: Dear Kent Commuter, We live in a lovely rural location within the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council area. We have owned our house for 23 years, and it was originally built as a pair of modest farmworkers’ cottages for the local estate in the 1860s. The cottages were purchased by a developer in the 1950s and converted into one three-bedroom dwelling.

When we purchased the house, it had been lived in by the same family since the 1950s and was in a very poor state of repair. It needed complete refurbishment with new heating, electrics and decoration and we installed new bathrooms and a kitchen. At the time, we also added a large extension to one side. As we recall, this was the largest extension the council would permit. It added a fourth bedroom and ancillary living space.

When we built the extension we matched the existing house, which is really pretty. It is quite traditional and typical of the area, with brick at the lower level and beautiful clay tile hanging above.

The house has served us well, and while now a little outdated we love it, but our family’s grown. We have four children and have run out of space.

We have been considering moving but can’t find anything we like, so before making a final decision we wanted to explore the possibility of adding another extension to our current home and would like to know if the rules for extending have changed since we last extended.

We need another bedroom, and ideally a teenagers’ room where they can have their own space when their friends visit.

We have recently inherited some money so have, we think,

quite a decent budget of £250,000 for the project. Within this, we would also like to upgrade the rest of the house, decorate and have a new kitchen. If planning was achievable, do you think this budget would be large enough for that?

If we could obtain permission to extend then we would look to do the works and stay here, as the costs associated with moving and buying a new house are considerable, and also moving could be quite stressful.

We would welcome your view on how best we can proceed.

Morris and Claire Street Our Answer: Your home is very pretty and there is certainly potential to create an extension which would fulfil your brief.

We work with many clients who are ‘space-hungry’ and are seeking to extend and make the best of what they have rather than move as the finances involved in moving can be fairly significant.

When looking at the feasibility of a project like this, the first place to start is with the records held at the council offices. This will fill in any gaps in the development history of a property and enable an assessment of what will and won’t be acceptable

under policy terms.

Once this is done, a scheme can be developed and it is always advisable to enter into informal ‘pre-application’ discussions with the council to engage and take advice.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council can provide an informal view in writing, or by way of a meeting, and further information can be found through its Pre-application Advice Service, available at www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/residents/planning/ make-a-planning-application/pre-application-advice Having researched the planning history of your home, it is evident that the cottages were not extended when converted in 1954, and in 1996 you extended by some 240 cubic metres, which was almost the maximum possible at the time.

If the extension had been built more recently, then the only option to create additional space would be to consider some form of Permitted Development extension where you would be restricted to the following criteria: 1. The extension cannot extend more than 3 metres from the rear wall of the original house. Proposals for extensions between 3 and 6 metres would require

the submission of a ‘larger householder extension’ Prior Notification to the council.

2. The height of the eaves of the extension cannot exceed the height of the eaves of the main house. If the extension would be within 2 metres of the garden boundary, then the eaves cannot be more than 3 metres high. The overall height of the extension (including any ridged roof) cannot be more than 4 metres.

3. The extension cannot exceed 50 per cent of the total garden area, and materials used in any exterior work (other than those used in the construction of a conservatory) must be of a similar appearance to the main dwelling house.

The relevant policy for considering extensions outside the limits to built development (which is where your house is situated) is Policy H11 of the Tunbridge Wells local plan, which advises that any extensions, including previous extensions, and the proposed scheme should not be more than 50 per cent over the original volume or 150 cubic metres, whichever is the greater, to a maximum of 250 cubic metres.

However, while your extension is almost at the maximum of these figures, there is a rather nice part of the policy which only makes it necessary to consider extensions built since May 2001 in this volume assessment.

On this basis, the proposed two-storey side extension would result in less than a 50 per cent increase in volume, and therefore, under the policy, you could potentially create a similar sized extension to that

theKentCommuter | 19

September 2017

‘WE WOULD SUGGEST A NEW PRINCIPAL ENTRANCE TO THE CENTRE OF THE ORIGINAL BUILDING’

previously constructed. This, of course, would be subject to it meeting the criterial of good design set out by the council.

Looking at the design of your home, the 1996 extension is quite clearly defined, and the original farm cottages sit slightly forward of this. Access to the house is from the side, and somehow the building looks a little off-balance.

A matching two-storey extension to the other side would create a more balanced visual appearance, and we would suggest a new principal entrance to the centre of the original building, which would then create a perfectly balanced double-fronted elevation. The new brickwork and clay hanging tiles would match those as existing, and then the new entrance could incorporate a well-designed oak-framed entrance porch.

To the rear, a more contemporary approach could incorporate large glazing elements to open up the area between the inside and outside garden space.

Your house is not listed, neither is it in a conservation area, so a fairly basic but formal ‘householder’ planning application would be necessary.

We always advise clients to speak to neighbours prior to submitting a formal planning application to gauge views and ensure there are no issues arising. It is also helpful for the planning officer dealing

with your application because, hopefully, any potential issues can be addressed at an early stage.

Once planning permission is granted, it will last for three years, and if at any time you formally commence works, the permission will be retained in perpetuity.

Once planning is obtained, it will be necessary to prepare detailed drawings and enter into a formal tender process with contractors. This information will be a key element of the process and will define all the costs involved.

The works required would include the following: Building Regulations drawings and specifications The works themselves must meet the relevant technical requirements in the

Building Regulations. This is a statutory requirement.

This information needs to contain plans and other information showing all construction details. At this stage it will also be necessary to employ the services of a structural engineer.

Detailed working drawings for tender It is advisable to try and define the full scope of works and design all elements of the project down to the lighting. A fully specified tender document will allow everything to be costed by the contractor prior to commencement of works in order that the price can be fixed. We would recommend obtaining four prices by way of a competitive tender process, which will allow for a quantifiable assessment of costs and offer the best value.

When all the information relating to the work has been gathered and specified, it can be sent to tender. We like to send projects to a minimum

of three contractors and obtain fixed prices for the works.

Having three prices ensures the best value and enables you to budget for the completed project.

At present we are seeing an array of prices returned at tender. Choosing the right builder for your project is not only about price, but also about personality. It is crucial to feel comfortable with your builder as they will be in your home for several months, and communication is key to the successful outcome of a project.

However, and as a guide, we are currently seeing tender costs for this type of work returning between £1,750 and £2,250 per metre, depending upon level of specification.

If we took the midway price, the costs for construction of the extension are likely to be somewhere in the region of £140,000.

In addition to this, you will have the refurbishment of the existing and the new kitchen, so in principle it looks like your budget of £250,000 will be achievable.

John Bullock Design offer advice on any architectural project. See a selection of their work at www.johnbullockdesign.com or call 01892 525732

theKentCommuter | 21

September 2017

TOWN FOCUS: FOLKSTONE

THE LOWDOWN ON

FOLKESTONE

total resident population

●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●● The Conservative Party hold a strong majority in the area with 22 councillors out the total 29.

PROPERTY: Last year most property sales in Folkestone involved terraced properties which sold for on average £195,687.

Flats sold for an average price of £158,461.

Semi-detached properties sold for an average price of £272,969.

Folkestone has an overall average price of £219,456.

During the last year, sold prices in Folkestone were 14% up on the previous year and 17% up on 2014 when the average house price was £187,008.

Information sourced from Office for National Statistics, www.ashford.gov.uk, Right Move.

PROPERTIES: Although Folkestone is currently good value for money, this is expected to change with the high speed rail connections and increased investment in the town. Folkestone comprises mainly classic Victorian properties, of all sizes, from small terraces up to grand villas, some of which have been converted into very large and rather glamorous apartments. The major new development is just outside at Hawkinge and consists of small developments of family homes.

you can enjoy a picnic or BBQ on the beach?

Alternatively you could head to the Folkestone Harbour Arm for a delicious mix of food, drink and entertainment. Be sure to try Rocksalt for super-fresh fish and al-fresco dining with stunning harbour views.

However, Folkestone is so much more than just a beach town. It also has a ski centre, Railway Museum and a variety of country parks where lots of musical events are held all year round including the Disco Soul music gig.

TOWN HERITAGE: Originally a small fishing village, Folkestone developed during the 17th century into a much bigger town. At the beginning of the 1800s the town included a harbour and, with the introduction of railways in 1843, its seaside resorts became a fashionable tourist destination helping to create the town’s prosperity.

Today Folkestone still retains some of its historical wealth and this is reflected in the many period properties dotted all over town

but over the past few years plenty of regeneration has also been taking place; like the new Creative Quarter.

SCHOOLS: Folkestone offers a great selection of schools, including both grammar and comprehensive.

The Folkestone Academy is a large, modern concept school in the area that produces great results. Dover Grammar School For Girls, just outside of Folkestone, and The Harvey Grammar School are well established local schools that are popular selective options.

TRANSPORT LINKS: With the Channel Tunnel nearby Folkestone boasts very good connections to the continent. It also benefits from the high speed rail services via Ashford International and Ebbsfleet. Folkestone is also located near the M20 and A20, so Ashford, Maidstone, Canterbury and Dover are also easily accessible.

ENTERTAINMENT: In the quaint restored streets of Folkestone, you’ll discover cutting-edge art in its unique Creative Quarter, which houses over 100 artistic enterprises. Explore the interesting art galleries or browse the many quirky stores, laid-back bars and chic eateries.

Beaches shape Folkestone’s colourful character. The mile-long cliff-top promenade of The Leas is just a short stroll away, offering far reaching views to France or why not take a ride to the Lower Leas Coastal Park where

Image courtesy of Visit Kent

111,200

Artistic enclaves, stunning shores, unique histories and expansive wildlife escapes all culminate to make up the beautiful little port town of Folkestone. A true seaside gem, its sunny shores are buzzing during the summer months and quieter and more tranquil once the last of the tourists have gone home. In addition to the beach, Folkestone town centre is also worth checking out thanks to its Creative Quarter and the many interesting shops and cafés that line the cobbled streets.

If you are considering moving to the Kent Coast, few areas could deliver such a bright town, so full of character and with such easy access to the capital:

KentCommuter

24 | the

PROPERTY

FOCUS

Matfield & Southborough

September 2017

MAYCOTTS LODGE, THE GREEN, MATFIELD, KENT

GUIDE PRICE £750,000 AT A GLANCE Maycotts Lodge ■ Entrance hall ■ Cloak/shower room ■ Sitting/dining room ■ Kitchen ■ First floor landing ■ Two bedrooms ■ Bedroom 3/study ■ Outside courtyard area ■ Gravel seating area ■ Formal gardens ■ Garage

DETACHED PERIOD HOME

DATING BACK TO 1850 Boasting many character features and with a garden to the side and rear that includes a walled courtyard and large patio area.

For sale through Firefly Properties 01892 838363 www.fireflyproperties.co.uk

homes portfolio: RESIDENTIAL HOUSES AT A GLANCE Newhaven ■ 2005 built detached house ■ 4 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite ■ Master bedroom suite with dressing area ■ Elegant drawing room ■ Vast main reception room with garden views ■ Stylish bespoke kitchen ■ Separate utility room ■ Off road parking for several cars ■ Double integrated garage ■ Landscaped rear garden ■ In all about 0.26 acres

STUNNINGLY MODERN

5-BEDROOM FAMILY HOME

A spacious, light and well-proportioned property with an array of modern features.

For sale through Flying Fish Properties 01892 514189 www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk

NEWHAVEN, LONDON ROAD, SOUTHBOROUGH

GUIDE PRICE £1,150,000

theKentCommuter | 27

AT A GLANCE

September 2017

Pounsley House n 3 reception rooms n Kitchen/breakfast room n Gym n 2 conservatories n Shower room n Master bedroom with en suite

n 5 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Swimming pool

PROPERTY

n Garage n Established gardens and

FOCUS

grounds n EPC rating = D

DISTINCTIVE EDWARDIAN FAMILY

Sevenoaks & Sutton Valence

HOME WITH SWIMMING POOL

Set within attractive grounds, and with a paddock, this property is set at the edge of the village and dates back to 1906.

Available for sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

POUNSLEY HOUSE, DUNTON GREEN, SEVENOAKS, KENT TN13 2XP

£1,475,000

homes portfolio: RESIDENTIAL

A WELL-PROPORTIONED 5 BEDROOM FAMILY HOUSE Set in the historic village of Sutton Valence, in a ‘no through road’, this property was constructed in the 1980s.

AT A GLANCE

Available for sale through Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.com

5 Southways n Entrance hall n Drawing room n Dining room n Sitting room n Study n Conservatory n Kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Cloakroom

n Master bedroom with

dressing table and en suite bath/shower room n Guest bedroom with en suite shower room n Three further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Detached double garage n Well-established garden n Garden shed n 0.45 acres in total

5 SOUTHWAYS, NORTH STREET, SUTTON VALENCE, KENT ME17 3HT

£895,000

KentCommuter

28 | the

September 2017

CANSIRON HOUSE BUTCHERFIELD LANE, HARTFIELD

GUIDE PRICE

PROPERTY

£1,800,000

FOCUS Hartfield & Burwash

AT A GLANCE

ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT IN

LIGHT AND BRIGHT HOME

A superb contemporary build in a quiet rural setting near the picturesque Ashdown Forest.

Available for sale through Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 01892515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Cansiron House ■ Entrance hall ■ Open plan kitchen/dining/sitting room ■ Family room ■ Utility room ■ Cloakroom ■ Boiler/boot room ■ Master bedroom with en suite bathroom ■ Three further bedroom suites ■ Two further bedrooms ■ Family bathroom ■ Kitchenette ■ Double garage ■ Gardens and grounds ■ About 1.6 acres

homes portfolio: NEW HOUSES VIEW HOUSE THE OLD ORCHARD, BURWASH

GUIDE PRICE £950,000

AT A GLANCE View House ■ Entrance hall ■ Drawing room ■ Dining room ■ Kitchen/breakfast/family room ■ Utility room ■ 2 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms ■ 2 further bathrooms ■ Family bathroom ■ Double garage ■ Store room ■ Garden ■ Approximately 0.20 acres

FAMILY LIVING WITH A RANGE

OF NEW BESPOKE FEATURES

Well-presented, contemporary four bedroom house with stunning views over the Wealden countryside.

For sale through Knight Frank 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

KentCommuter

30 | the

September 2017

SHERNFOLD PARK FARM, FRANT, KENT

PROPERTY

FOCUS

£1,600 PCM

Frant & Tunbridge Wells

AT A GLANCE Shernfold Pak Farm n Exterior steps leading to small entrance porch n Open plan living room/dining room with original beams n Exposed brick fire surround and new wood burner n Dining area n Kitchen with larder cupboard n Conservatory n New shower room n Master bedroom n 2 further double bedrooms n New bathroom n Low maintenance garden laid to patio n Well-established beds and hedge borders n Garage n Off-road parking for one car n Further parking at front of house

OLD MEETS NEW WITH ORIGINAL BEAMS AND MODERN FEATURES Open plan living downstairs with new additions including a brand new wood burner and new shower room with walk in shower cubicle.

Available for let through Wood & Pilcher 01892 511211 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

homes portfolio: LETTINGS

£975 PCM

TASTEFULLY DECORATED

AND WELL-PRESENTED HOUSE A short walk from Dunorlan Park, the property also benefits from a newly-laid low-maintenance courtyard with outside store cupboard.

Available for let through Wood & Pilcher 01892 511211 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

AT A GLANCE

CROMWELL ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT, TN2 4UD

Cromwell Road n Kitchen/breakfast room n Under stairs cupboard n Master bedroom with two fitted single wardrobes n Bathroom with a full white suite

n Second bedroom n Loft room n Low maintenance courtyard n Outside store cupboard