Fisks Gateway issue 52

inside this issue

JACK IS BACK TO MAKE US ALL LAUGH ARE ADDED EXTENSIONS/ KITCHENS WORTH ANYTHING TO YOUR SALE? CHOOSING NEUTRAL PAINT COLOURS WHICH AREN’T BORING PLUS ALL OF THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 52

Contents Jack is back to make us all laugh British comedian Jack Whitehall will host the BRIT Awards for the second year in a row.

Are added extensions/ kitchens worth anything to your sale?

We take a look at what home improvements will actually be welcomed by buyers or tenants and add value to your home.

Choosing neutral paint colours which aren’t boring Our top 4 tips on where to start picking neutral paint colours that won’t bore your viewers.

Our properties Last, but certainly not least, you can find all of this month’s feature properties throughout the magazine. Enjoy!

© iceberg-digital.co.uk; Tel +44 (0) 1992 766 637; Web: www.iceberg-digital.co.uk This magazine is published by iceberg-digital.co.uk, hereinafter referred to as “the publisher”. The publisher retains the right to all ‘work’, hereinafter defined as such work is wholly the property of the publisher and may not be copied, quoted or reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this work, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any misfortune, injury or damages which may arise there from. The publisher reserves the right to revise or reject, in whole or in part, any advertisement or submission without notice and for any reason. All advertisers agree to release the representations of any advertisement herein, including, but not limited to any claim arising from any negligence and/or fault on the part of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for the condition or for the performance of any services advertised in the magazine. All rights are reserved.

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Welcome to our

magazine...

Welcome to the December edition of our Gateway magazine.

There is still time, as we are only at the beginning of December, to arrange the viewing on the home that you had in your wish list.

From the seller’s point of view December is when enquiries are from serious buyers, as we accept the public is focused on Christmas.

John Pring FNAEA (Honoured) & MARLA | Director

The internet has changed everything, particularly in the way that the public now shop, hence the debate over the future of high streets vs Amazon. The property market is no different; the enquiry initiates from the portals. Rightmove says their busiest day is Boxing Day. To have your home fully exposed to the market, the old advice of waiting until the New Year, when viewers emerge after their Christmas holiday, is no longer the best advice. In an ideal world to fully expose your home to these internet driven enquiries your home should be fully available on Christmas Eve. We can help you manage this process.

The Press is full of doom and gloom over house prices. We do not wish to make light of the current political situation but we do not believe that the extreme headlines of price reductions will happen. People will still wish to move for many reasons. Tenants will still need to find homes to rent. Forecasting the future in uncertain times is just a guess. Buying a property should be about a long term plan to live in a home that suits your and your family’s needs. Property prices should always be viewed within the longterm cycle. The question is no longer: ‘what will the property be worth in five years’ time’, but rather; ‘in ten years’ time’.

Finally we wish you a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

For an updated Sales or Lettings valuation, to see your property in our January Gateway magazine or for further advice, please contact your local Fisks branch.

fisks.co.uk

Meet our

Benfleet Team Our centrally located estate and letting agency branch offers a professional sales, lettings and property management service for Benfleet and the surrounding areas benefitting from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.

THERE ARE A LOT OF ESTATE AGENTS BUT ONLY ONE FISKS “We gave our property to Fisks when we decided to move as Ian seemed the most professional of the three agents who we asked to value our property. Boy are we glad we did house sold to the first viewers in 36 hours from instructing Fisk’s. We were kept up to date with regular calls and nothing was too much trouble. Now we have moved Ian is collecting post from our old address for us and calling for us to collect from the office. Beyond the call of duty Great service thanks again Martin and Melanie Bagnall “

Located some 30 miles east of the City of London on the north bank of the Thames Estuary, Benfleet is primarily based around three historically separate settlements; South Benfleet, Thundersley and Hadleigh. which gradually merged during the 20th century. The residential areas are now said to have the highest proportion of owner occupancy in the country which speaks volumes for the quality of life here!

The mainland station in South Benfleet services the entire area and is the busiest commuting station on the Fenchurch Street C2C line.

AWARD WINNING

2016

Fisks 146 London Road, Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T 01268 565555 F 01268 566291 E benfleet@fisks.co.uk

fisks.co.uk

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LANGHAM DRIVE, RAYLEIGH £232,000 Recently redecorated semidetached property featuring a refitted kitchen, lounge, double bedroom and a family bathroom.

Outside there is a front garden plus two private parking spaces.

Located close to local schools, shops and transport routes, this property is ideal for first time buyers or buy to let investors.

Energy Band – E.

CALL 01268 565555

WOODBURN CLOSE, BENFLEET £280,000 Modernised and refurbished throughout, this three bedroom mid-terraced property is perfect for first time buyers, families or buy to let investors. The property has a modern fitted kitchen, good sized lounge/diner and a rear garden mainly laid to lawn with a patio area. Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

HAVIS ROAD, STANFORD LE HOPE £309,995-£319,995 This recently refurbished mid-terrace home is perfect for first time buyers or those that are looking to start a family. The property comprises a spacious open plan lounge/diner/kitchen, three bedrooms and a bathroom. Outside there is off street parking to the front, a private rear garden and a separate garage. Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

LINDEN CLOSE, BENFLEET £350,000 Set on a corner plot, this four bedroom detached property boasts a modern kitchen, lounge/diner, en-suite and a family bathroom. Outside there is a wraparound garden and the detached garage has been converted into a lounge/kitchen. The property also benefits from solar panels (owned). Energy Band - D.

CALL 01268 565555

LONDON ROAD, BENFLEET £319,995 A fantastic sized three bedroom semidetached house benefiting from a wellproportioned lounge/diner, refitted kitchen and a modernised family shower room. The property has its own private drive and rear garden and would be ideal for first time buyers, families or buy to let investors.

Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 565555

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STANLEY ROAD, BENFLEET £320,000-£325,000 Modernised three bedroom chalet-style home featuring an 80ft rear garden. The property offers a kitchen with integral appliances, ground floor cloakroom, lounge and a four piece bathroom. There is also a private front drive, carport and garage. Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

HART ROAD, BENFLEET £215,000 Immaculately presented two bedroom first floor retirement apartment in the highly sought after Aston Place, Thundersley Village. The property enjoys a fitted kitchen, a refitted bathroom, nice sized lounge and a balcony. A secure telephone allows people in and out of the home plus there is a lift to all floors, a communal room and a part time warden. Energy Band – B.

CALL 01268 565555

JACK IS BACK TO MAKE US ALL LAUGH

Jack is back to make us all laugh It’s been announced that Jack Whitehall will host the BRIT Awards for the second year in a row.

Image credit: Featureflash Photo Agency

JACK IS BACK TO MAKE US ALL LAUGH

The British comedian - who is making the move to Hollywood with roles in the likes of ‘The Nutcracker and the Four Realms’ and ‘Jungle Cruise’ - impressed viewers earlier this year, and now bosses are excited to have him back at the helm for the 2019 ceremony.

Over the last few years, Whitehall has firmly established himself in the entertainment industry with a long list of achievements in both film and comedy. He completed two sold out arena tours of the UK in 2014 and 2017, including three sold out nights at London’s O2 Arena.

Despite his often tongue-in-cheek and occasionally controversial humour, he has been invited back to host for the second time, with Brit’s chairman Jason Iley commenting: “Jack was one of the best Brits hosts the show has seen for many years – I’m delighted he has decided to do it again next year. He was so funny and very engaging, I can’t wait to see what he will bring to the show in 2019.”

The 30-year-old star kept the crowd entertained as he teased the likes of Harry Styles and then-couple Liam Payne and Cheryl during the ceremony in February. It’s said Jack is planning “an even bigger

opening” and better material this time round, and that he’s looking forward to returning.

A source told The Sun newspaper: “Jack proved a real success when he hosted.

“He did a fantastic job. Everyone was very impressed. “He might have gone over to Hollywood for his day-to-day job but he loves the Brits.

“This time he’s planning on returning with funnier jokes and an even bigger opening -- he’s just really excited to be back.”

It comes weeks after Jack - who was spotted kissing Kate Beckinsale earlier this month - joked he wanted to replace Victoria Beckham in the Spice Girls. He tweeted: “Spice Girls Reunion.

Yes please, Apparently they are looking for a replacement ‘Posh’? You know where to find me.”

Whitehall is one of the few celebrities to have hosted more than once, joining comedian, actor TV host James Corden and radio DJ Chris Evans, who have hosted solo four times each. We can’t wait to see what he has in store! n

Image credit: Featureflash Photo Agency

Meet our

Canvey Team Our office located at the heart of Canvey Town Centre offers a sales, lettings and property management service for Canvey Island and the surrounding areas and benefits from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.

GREAT PROFESSIONAL YET FRIENDLY AGENT “Gemma North & the Fisks team were incredibly easy to work with .....even from 3000 miles away in Canada. .Gemma was always available, polite ,freindly & returned calls swiftly . .The whole transaction went smoothly with many excellent recommendations for other professionals ie solicitors, inspectors etc We would not hesitate to recommend or use Fisks in the future. Thank you so much for all your hard work !!!!�

AWARD WINNING

With excellent rail connections into the City from neighbouring Benfleet station, Canvey is today permanently connected to the mainland via two road bridges, offering fast access to the M25 and East Anglia via the A12 trunk road. However the island still manages to preserve an independent character and a vibrant community spirit all its own.

Thanks to development in recent years, Canvey offers a wide range of exceptionally reasonably-priced property, from first time buyer apartments to detached executive homes - many with stunning views across to the wooded Hadleigh Downs, and along the estuary towards Southend.

2016

Fisks 85 Furtherwick Road, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 7AY T 01268 510510 F 01268 697126 E canvey@fisks.co.uk

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WOODVILLE ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND ÂŁ315,000 This detached family home is offered with no onward chain and offers plenty of living space throughout. The ground floor benefits from a large 21ft lounge, downstairs cloakroom and a kitchen overlooking the good sized rear garden. Upstairs there are two double bedrooms, a single bedroom and the family bathroom.

The property has a large garage attached to the side of the house and also has off street parking. Both the front and back gardens are grass for easy maintenance.

Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 510510

WITTEM ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £269,995 This three bedroom link-detached bungalow is offered with no onward chain and features a 19ft lounge overlooking the large west facing garden and a converted garage which serves as the third bedroom.

The property is only a short walk from the town centre and has good access on and off the island. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 510510

LAKEVIEW, CANVEY ISLAND £245,000 This extended two bedroom semidetached house boasts a modern finish throughout with a beautiful 15ft kitchen and large extension to the rear which provides a relaxed family area, separate utility and downstairs toilet. The property has off street parking for one car as well as a garage. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 510510

LABWORTH ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £400,000 Located in a prime location within walking distance to both the town centre and seafront is this fantastic four bedroom detached house. The property has been well-maintained and offers a large lounge, separate dining room and en-suite to master as well as a ground floor cloak room and integral garage. Energy Band – E.

CALL 01268 510510

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LINDE ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £235,000 This one bedroom detached bungalow is situated within perfect walking distance to the town centre. The property benefits from a good sized fitted kitchen, modern shower room and lovely conservatory on the rear. The garden is low maintenance and there is also a garage and off street parking.

Energy Band – E.

CALL 01268 510510

CRESCENT ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND OIEO £320,000 This beautiful and wellmaintained three/four bedroom detached property boasts a large lounge with an equally large kitchen perfect for family living. Adjacent to this is a lovely dining room with potential to be the fourth bedroom. The rear garden is low maintenance and to the front there is off street parking for two cars. Energy Band - E.

CALL 01268 510510

ARE ADDED EXTENSIONS/KITCHENS WORTH ANYTHING TO YOUR SALE?

ARE ADDED EXTENSIONS/ KITCHENS WORTH ANYTHING TO YOUR SALE? With New Year coming up shortly, many people will be spending the start of the year going up and down the aisles of home improvement emporiums such as B&Q.4

Image credit: Dave Head

ARE ADDED EXTENSIONS/KITCHENS WORTH ANYTHING TO YOUR SALE?

However, if you are thinking of selling or letting your home, it might be worthwhile to look at what home improvements will actually be welcomed by buyers or tenants and more importantly, if your investment in home improvements will actually add value to the property.

6. An en suite bathroom The Biggest Home Improvement Loser Extravagant, over-personalised decor can really turn buyers and renters off. Keep the decor neutral, light and fresh

Golden Rule of Home Improvement

with as little clutter as possible. People want to personalise

According to ThisisMoney.co.uk, as a general rule, you

look of a clean slate.

should avoid spending more than 10% of the overall value of your property on a single project, as you may not be able to recoup your investment when you come to sell or let it.

Generally speaking, if you are a city dweller, an expansion project, such as a loft conversion or extension, usually add the most value to a home. With city parking at a premium, adding a parking space can be very worthwhile, and if it is an option, adding a garage with a room over it can combine the need for extra living space with extra parking space in one money-earning solution.

The Top 6 Home Improvements that Add Value The National Association of Estates Agents (NAEA) advises that the following are the top 6 improvements that can be lucrative in a property: 1. An extension 2. New kitchen 3. Loft conversion 4. Off-road parking 5. A conservatory

a home when they move in and it is best to give them the

The Most Worthwhile Small DIY Jobs If it is not possible to invest in the improvements that will add value to your property, focus instead on the small changes that could mean a faster sale or let.

1. Freshly paint your front door 2. Ensure the front garden and drive are clear of junk and clean and tidy 3. De-clutter and clean the hallway or front reception area to make the best first impression.

Crunch your Numbers Before You do Anything Before you start swinging hammers or employing builders make sure that the improvements you’ve planned are worthwhile.

Ask an expert for their opinion on whether the work you have planned will actually add value to the property.

As estate agents we see properties day in and day out and we know what buyers and tenants are looking for in property – and even more importantly, what they’re willing to pay for it! n

Image credit: All About Space

Meet our

Docklands Team Located at South Quay, at the foot of the pedestrian bridge to Canary Wharf, our Docklands office offers sales, lettings and property management services for the Docklands and Royal Docks area benefitting from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.

GOOD PROMT AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE “Fisks have found 3 good tenants for me over 5 years, each time they handled the transaction with high professionalism, promptness and doing more than their job description to get the deal done. All details were accurate and checked thoroughly. Good team support.

Happy landlord, happy tenant. “

The London Docklands area has been transformed into one of the most exciting commercial and residential environments in the world.

Alongside the glittering office towers of Canary Wharf, a rich mix of developments, purpose-built luxury apartment blocks and warehouse conversions full of period character all making the maximum use of the spectacular waterside setting - have helped to make today’s Docklands the last word in sophisticated urban living.

Transport links with the City via the Docklands Light Railway and the West End via the Jubilee Line are first class.

AWARD WINNING

2016

Benfleet & Canvey

Canary Wharf, Docklands & Royal Docks

Fisks Docklands Suite 2 Parker House, Admirals Way, Marsh Wall, London, E14 9UQ T 0207 517 8810 F 0207 517 7902 E docklands@fisks.co.uk

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STAINSBY ROAD, E14 £425,000-£450,000 Leasehold – Beautifully presented two bedroom apartment that includes an open plan kitchen and reception area leading to a terrace. Energy Band – B.

CALL 0207 517 8810

CONSTABLE HOUSE, E14 £375,000-£400,000 Leasehold – One bedroom apartment featuring a contemporary bathroom suite and kitchen. A secure allocated parking bay is included in the price. Energy Band – C.

CALL 0207 517 8810

KINGFISHER HEIGHTS, E16 £485,000-£500,000 Leasehold – Furnished two bedroom, two bathroom apartment featuring a good sized balcony with views of the Thames and the dramatic Thames Barrier. Conveniently located for Pontoon Dock DLR providing access to Canary Wharf. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 0207 517 8810

BARNFIELD PLACE, E14 £335 pw Lovely two bedroom one bathroom apartment located in a peaceful close in Docklands. Occupants will benefit from use of a secure garage which is included in the rent. Located a short walk from Mudchute DLR just four stops to Canary Wharf means excellent connections to the Jubilee Line & the City. Energy Band – C.

CALL 0207 517 8810

GRAINSTORE, E16 £350 pw Two bedroom, one bathroom apartment benefiting from a split level dwelling with the second bedroom located on the upper mezzanine tier. The accommodation includes a high specification kitchen with integrated appliances plus a large private balcony affording a courtyard view. Energy Band – D.

CALL 0207 517 8810

TAEPING STREET, E14 £370 pw Two bedroom flat with oblique dock views.

The property comes fully furnished and has ample storage available plus use of a private off street parking bay. Located close to Mudchute DLR providing access to Greenwich, Canary Wharf and connections to the Jubilee Line. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 0207 517 8810

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LANDMARK WEST TOWER, E14 £460 pw Furnished one bedroom interior designed apartment offering stunning west facing landscape views. The specification includes floor to ceiling glazing, comfort cooling, engineered wood flooring, a kitchen with granite finishes and a bathroom with marble finishes. Energy Band – B.

CALL 0207 517 8810

ARNHEM WHARF, E14 £420 pw Two bedroom, two bathroom (one en-suite) apartment located on the 3rd floor of this sought after gated development. The apartment benefits from a good sized terrace and direct west facing views of the Thames and famous London landmarks.

Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 0207 517 8810

MILLHARBOUR, E14 £500 pw Well-presented luxury two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment that includes a good sized living room with a balcony. Both South Quay DLR and Canary Wharf Jubilee Line tube are only a short walk away. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 0207 517 8810

CHOOSING NEUTRAL PAINT COLOURS WHICH AREN’T BORING

Choosing neutral paint colours which aren’t boring While it’s a big commitment (and not always possible when renting) to paint out walls in strong colours, you can be clever with your choice of neutral paints to give the perfect base to create a look4

Image credit: Photographee.eu

CHOOSING NEUTRAL PAINT COLOURS WHICH AREN’T BORING

Painting a house using neutral colours when selling is also a way to appeal to the majority of buyers. By embracing colour and pattern in a different way, you can create a sense of home.

Sometimes people don’t know what they want style-wise.

Here are my top 4 tips on where to start picking neutral paint colours that won’t bore your viewers: 1. Concept boards can really help you to pin down a colour scheme and ensure you and your other half agree on a look. You get a feeling when you know you have hit on the right scheme.

2. When planning your home, don’t rush. Get the base right (walls and floors) so you can layer up with lights, fabrics and accessories, which compliment your base colours.

3. There are all sorts of apps and tools to help you choose the right paint.

4. Colour is rarely as it looks on the paint card. So buy a tester and paint a large piece of card.

Rather than painting a section of the wall, a painted card allows you to walk around the space, trying out the card on different walls to see the varying effects of light.

It also allows you to position the card next to the floor, as getting the paint colour to work with the other largest surface in the room, the floor, should be your first goal.

Here are my hand picked top 5 neutral paint colours: 1. Farrow & Ball Strong White The go-to neutral for contemporary design schemes, this soft off-white with a hint of warm grey lifts artwork and warm accent colours to another level.

2. Little Green French Grey This soft grey paint offers the perfect elegant mid tone. It works equally

well in a classic or contemporary style.

3. Farrow & Ball Dimity This neutral paint with a hint of red perfectly offsets fabrics with a red base and adds texture to a scheme.

4. Dulux Ash White This super cool off-white neutral has a very classical look and was typical of the Palladian style. It’s contemporary styling for a more original look and it’s perfect for modern country.

5. Paint and Paper Library Slate IV A slightly more masculine neutral, this mid tone grey works really well in bathrooms and teamed with marble accessories gives a really luxe look.

Colour is a very personal choice so look for references in your life such as artwork or nature as a starting point.

Looking to your wardrobes as initial inspiration for your colour schemes may be key, the clues to your style are right there!n

Image credit: Fizkes

2016

Benfleet Fisks Ltd 146 London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 565555 F: 01268 566291 E: benfleet@fisks.co.uk

Why use Fisks?

Canvey Fisks Ltd 85 Furtherwick Road Canvey Island Essex, SS8 7AY

Members of NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) and ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents).

T: 01268 510510 F: 01268 697126 E: canvey@fisks.co.uk

Audited clients account

Docklands Fisk Docklands Ltd Suite 2 Parker House Admirals Way Marsh Wall London, E14 9UQ

Free rent guarantee insurance with management plus Option to spread payments over the length of lease (subject to Terms of Business) Three levels of service offered: Let Only, Management and Management Plus

T: 0207 517 8810 F: 0207 517 7902 E: docklands@fisks.co.uk Head Office 146a London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 750000 F: 01268 758921 E: office@fisks.co.uk Property Management: 0207 517 8811

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To experience our service, put us to the test! Contact your local branch at Benfleet, Canvey or Docklands Gateway Pages4.indd 28 Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)

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