Fisks Gateway issue 21

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 21

inside this issue

AN ENGLISH ROSE FIT FOR A PRINCESS ULTIMATE WINTER WELLNESS RETREATS PLUS ALL OF THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

Contents An English rose One of Britain’s best actresses and famous for her roles in period dramas, Keira’s latest film depicts a story of hope and courage.

Fit for a Princess With award-winning designs and shoes worn

by Kate Middleton, step into December with Rupert Sanderson.

Ultimate winter wellness retreats For those looking to swap the Christmas bulge with a healthier start to the New Year, Health and Fitness Travel have exactly what you need.

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.

Looking back at the welcome page one year ago, we commented on the Chancellor’s surprise announcement on the 3% increase of the Stamp Duty Land Tax for second property and buy-to-let owners and the effect of this tax increase on the number of transactions in 2016.

John Pring FNAEA (Honoured) & MARLA | Director

As predicted, we did see a huge increase in sales completing in March to avoid this additional tax and thereafter, first time buyers; perhaps because of the publicity or the freely available money to borrow, came back to the market in strength during the Summer.

As the year progressed, if this one major challenge was not enough, the referendum vote quickly followed. The market continued apace until a couple of weeks prior to the vote when there was a notable reduction of interest from prospective buyers. However, as soon as the result was announced; full steam ahead. A roaring sellers’ market existed through to the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement.

This time, the surprise ‘rabbit out of the hat’ was the announcement of the Government’s intention to bane Letting Agents’ fees. The small print clarified the headline statement as this Governmental promise will require primary legislation with the Government undertaking to consult all interested parties early in 2017.

I hope you have found this magazine useful and you continue to be a reader throughout 2017. With my very best wishes for a happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

fisks.co.uk

Benfleet

Located some 30 miles east of the City of London on the north bank of the Thames Estuary, the mainland portion of Castle Point Borough - which also encompasses Canvey Island - is primarily based around three historically separate settlements, 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!

Fisks Ltd 146 London Road Benfleet Essex SS7 5SQ Ian Carey Sales Manager Ian started his career in the British Army when he was 17.

Progressing from Rifleman to Lance Corporal, Ian lead teams of up to 8 men. On finishing his military career, he joined the Estate Agency industry. Now with over ten years’ experience in Residential Sales and Lettings, Ian is a valuable asset to our Benfleet Sales Team.

T: 01268 565555 F: 01268 566291 E: benfleet@fisks.co.uk

fisks.co.uk

Kimberley Road, Benfleet

£540,000 Four/five bedroom detached house benefiting from show home condition interior and an approximately 100ft rear garden. Energy Band - D.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

£310,000

Seamore Close, Benfleet

Guide Price: £310,000 - £320,000 Three bedroom semi-detached house situated in North Benfleet and offering a large brick-based conservatory and a workshop. Energy Band – Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Carlton Road, Basildon

£490,000 Four bedroom detached bungalow on a generously sized plot. Energy Band - Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Tamarisk, Benfleet

£465,000 Four/five bedroom detached property in show home condition. Energy Band - Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

£305,000

Lynn View Close, Benfleet

Two bedroom semi-detached bungalow with the added bonus of a conservatory. Energy Band - Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Selbourne Road, Benfleet

£380,000 Three/four bedroom detached chalet style property with extra wide garage. Energy Band - D.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

fisks.co.uk

Greenoaks Close, Benfleet

ÂŁ435,000 Sold with no onward chain, this four bedroom detached family home has been completely refurbished to an exceptional standard.

Benefiting from a large kitchen/diner with breakfast bar, en-suite and downstairs WC and a 45ft rear garden, the property has everything a family needs for modern day living. Energy Band - D.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Albert Road, Benfleet

ÂŁ350,000 A truly sizeable four bedroom property that sits on a versatile plot measuring approximately 140ft in length with huge potential to build STPP. The vast living space, including two reception rooms, a downstairs bathroom and first floor modern shower room make this the perfect family home. Energy Band - Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Rose

An English

One of Britain’s best actresses and famous for her roles in period dramas, Keira’s latest film depicts a story of hope and courage4

Image: Andrea Raffin/Shutterstock.com

Image credit: DFree/Shutterstock.com

This December, a story of companionship, hope and courage will be released featuring a star-studded cast including Keira Knightley, Will Smith, Helen Mirren and Kate Winslet.

Collateral Beauty is set for release on 30th December and tells the story of a successful New York advertising executive who suffers a personal tragedy and retreats from life. His friends devise a plan to reach him before he loses everything and pushing him to the very edge, they force him to confront the truth in surprising and profoundly human ways. From Oscar-winning director David Frankel, this thought-provoking drama explores how even the deepest loss can reveal moments of beauty, and how love, time and death interlock in a life fully lived.

31-year-old Keira began acting as a child and in 1999, the English actress had a supporting role as Sabé in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Her first significant role came in the psychological horror film The Hole in 2001. She then gained widespread recognition in 2002 after co-starring in the film Bend It Like Beckham and achieved international fame in 2003 after appearing as Elizabeth Swann in the Pirates of the Caribbean film series.

Keira has since become well known for her roles in period dramas such as Pride & Prejudice, The Duchess and Anna Karenina. With over 55 film credits, Keira turned her attention

Image credit: Featureflash/Shutterstock.com

to theatre and in October 2015, made her Broadway debut in the title role of Thérèse Raquin.

In 2017, Keira will also star in The Aftermath, which is set in the aftermath of World War II. The story follows a British colonel and his wife who are assigned to live in Hamburg during the post-war reconstruction, but tensions arise with the German widow who lives with them. Rumoured for release in 2018 is the Nutcracker, which Keira will star in alongside Helen Mirren and Morgan Freeman. The Nutcracker tells the story of a young girl who is transported into a magical world of gingerbread soldiers and an army of mice.

Keira’s career has certainly been successful, but she will never take anything for granted. “I know for a fact the work is going to dry up, and people will get bored of me. That’s not bitterness, just the truth… In this business, fame lasts for a second. You can be blown up and be blown down. But I’ll move on and do something else because that’s what has to be done. It’s about survival. If you’re sad about it, then you’re in the wrong job.”

Yet out of all her accomplishments, what is the most unusual? “A newspaper voted me one of the scruffiest people in Britain. I’m quite proud of that. It’s completely true.”

Catch Keira in Collateral Beauty from 30th December n

Image credit: Twocoms/Shutterstock.com

Canvey Island

Situated on the Thames Estuary some 30 miles from London, and with evidence of human activity dating back to Roman times, Canvey was systematically reclaimed during the 17th century by skilled Dutch engineers, many of whom subsequently settled here. To this day, around a third of the roads on the island have names of Dutch origin.

Fisks Ltd 85 Furtherwick Road Canvey Island Essex SS8 7AY Gemma North Branch Manager On completion of an ILEX Legal Secretary Diploma at South east Essex College, Gemma started her career with Fisk’s in September 2010 as a Branch Administrator, later progressing to the position of Property Consultant a role in which Gemma excelled resulting in her promotion to Branch Manager in early 2014. Gemma has been a member of the National Association of Estate Agents since 2014.

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

fisks.co.uk

Walkways, Canvey Island

£235,000 Three bedroom mid terrace house with new central heating and double glazing throughout, offering a large lounge, separate dining area and a secluded garden. Energy Band – D.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

Maple Way, Canvey Island

£240,000 Split over two levels is this surprisingly generous maisonette, positioned on a prominent corner.

Internally you are spoilt with a white high gloss fully integrated kitchen with dining space, a bright lounge with study area, a large family bathroom with a contemporary freestanding bath, and two double bedrooms both with ensuites. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

Church Parade, Canvey Island

£405,000 This beautiful four bedroom family home features a two storey extension to the rear and front extension to the kitchen, so space is definitely not a problem. Internally the property boasts a modern fitted kitchen with breakfast area and huge 23ft 9in x 21ft 2in lounge with views over the west facing garden. Energy Band – E.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

Thorney Bay Road, Canvey

£419,995 This spacious detached house in the sought after Thorney Bay location offers all you could want and need from this style and calibre of property, from the good size lounge, separate study, separate dining room and utility, to the four double bedrooms with en-suite to master and family bathroom. Energy Band – Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

fisks.co.uk

Juliers Close, Canvey Island

£299,995

Genk Close, Canvey Island

£249,995

Positioned within walking distance to both the town centre and seafront is this lovely three bedroom detached home set on an exceptionally wide plot giving you potential to extend. The property also offers a lounge/diner with log burner, modern kitchen and large west facing garden.

Energy Band – D.

This three bedroom end of terrace house is located in a quiet cul-de-sac, benefiting from an extended lounge/diner with french doors leading to the south facing garden. Energy Band – E.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

Hope Road, Canvey Island

£284,995

Southfalls Road, Canvey Island

£260,000

Offered with no onward chain is this fully detached three bedroom house located just a short walk from the seafront.

The property offers a beautiful un-overlooked rear garden, lounge with bay window, kitchen/diner and a second reception room. Energy Band - E.

Situated in the Leigh Beck school catchment area and offered with no onward chain is this three bedroom semidetached chalet benefiting from a lengthy lounge/diner, ample off road parking and space to extend (STPP). Energy Band – E.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

Princess Fit for a

With award-winning designs and shoes worn by Kate Middleton, step into December with Rupert Sanderson4

All images credited to Rupert Sanderson

Rupert Sanderson is the name on everyone’s lips. His shoes are worn by some of the most glamourous and high profile women around the world and what’s more Kate Middleton is often spotted in them. Originally starting out in advertising, Rupert Sanderson turned his attention to designing and learnt to make shoes at the Cordwainers College in East London. During a summer break of his two-year course at college, Rupert rode a motorbike around Italy visiting as many shoe factories as he could cementing his passion and knowledge. The rest they say is history…

Rupert concentrates on perfecting line, volume and material to flatter and lengthen the leg and make women feel sexier. His inspiration comes from the materials themselves and Rupert has been awarded the British Fashion Council’s Accessory Designer of the Year in 2008 and the 2009 Accessory Designer at the Elle Style Awards. With over 120 individual processes involved in designing and making a shoe, each of which needs an intricate understanding and appreciation, we spoke to the man bringing the highly conceptual designs to life.

So Rupert, why did you decide to change career?

I was fascinated by the art of making shoes. I have always been passionate about creation, and when I combined my interest in shoes with my love for design, I thought it would make for a brilliant career.

Why did you choose the Cordwainers College in East London?

Being a world-renowned shoe design college, I couldn’t think of a better place and I knew that they could give me all the technical insight I would need to know.

The Worshipful Company of Cordwainers provide scholarships and bursaries to young shoe designers, why do you think this is important?

I admire that Cordwainers provides equal opportunity to people who have potential from different walks of life to nurture and develop their craftsmanship skills.

What advice would you give to aspiring shoe designers?

Immerse yourself fully. Patience is also key. Always believe in yourself and in the end the results of your hard work and dedication will be reflected.

What is your staple shoe?

Our staple shoe is the ‘Elba’ pump, which come in a multitude of different colour-ways and materials. New trends emerge every season, but these shoes are timeless.

What is your shoe hell?

Personally, I don’t think there is such a thing, but everybody has certain principles they stand by. I design with a ‘less is more’ approach, but I don’t dismiss other designs just because they don’t reflect my own.

What can we expect from you in the next three years?

We have some very exciting launches to look forward to, including a collaboration just last month with the wonderful Mayfair restaurant ’34’ and Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Rose where we will be introducing the ‘Rupert Sanderson Champagne Slipper’.

For more information, visit www.rupertsanderson.com n

Docklands

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.

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

James Pring Director Fisk Docklands and Fisk Ltd James has over twenty years’ experience in commerce. He spent nearly a decade in the City working within the executive search and recruitment industry. James started his career with Fisks in 2002 based in the Benfleet branch and opened the Canary Wharf branch in 2004. James has been a member of ARLA and the NAEA since 2007.

T: 0207 517 8810 F: 0207 517 7902 E: docklands@fisks.co.uk Property Management: 0207 517 8811

fisks.co.uk

Jutland Road, E13

£375,000

Equinox Building, E14

£474,950

Guide Price: £375,000 - £425,000 Freehold - Four bedroom, one bathroom period terraced house offering nice high ceilings in all principle rooms.

Arranged over two floors, the property includes a fully fitted kitchen, two good sized double bedrooms and separate family bathroom. Located just under 15 minutes from Canning Town Underground Station. Energy Band – E.

Leasehold - Stunning two bedroom, two bathroom apartment with spacious rooms, modern open plan kitchen, and beautiful bathrooms with en-suite to master. Located just 1 minute from Island Gardens DLR station providing good access to Canary Wharf & the City. Energy Band – B.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Grand Walk, E1

£375,000

Royal Wharf, E16

£425,000

Guide Price: £375,000 - £400,000 Freehold - One bedroom end of terrace house situated in a secluded location facing directly onto the Union Canal. The internal accommodation includes a separate kitchen, living room with access to a west facing rear garden, bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and a smart shower room. Energy Band – F.

Leasehold - One bedroom apartment expected to complete in April 2017. The property benefits from a balcony and high specification kitchen and bathroom. Royal Wharf facilities will include an indoor swimming pool and extensive gymnasium. Located close to Pontoon Dock DLR providing access to Canary Wharf and Bank. Energy Band – Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Blackwall Way, E14

£1409 pcm £325 pcw

Stunning one bedroom apartment offered fully furnished to a high specification. This high floor apartment consists of a large lounge, an open plan, modern and fully fitted kitchen plus good size double bedroom. A stone's throw from East India DLR for excellent transport links to Canary Wharf & The City. Energy Band – B.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Aegean Apartments, E16

£1799 pcm £415 pcw

Two bedroom, two bathroom duplex apartment offering an open plan kitchen and a living room with access to a good size balcony. There is also a cloakroom and ample storage space. Located just a minute away from Royal Victoria DLR means very easy connections to Canary Wharf and the West End. Energy Band – E.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

fisks.co.uk

Cascades Tower, E14

£2492 pcm £575 pcw

Furnished three bedroom, two bathroom apartment with stunning direct river and city views. Located on the edge of the Canary Wharf estate, the apartment is ideally located for the Canary Wharf's financial district. The West End and the City can be reached in less than twenty minutes via the Jubilee line and the DLR. Energy Band – D.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

£2579 pcm

Capital Wharf, E1

£595 pcw

Terrific views of Tower Bridge and The City from this generously proportioned apartment. The internal accommodation includes a bathroom with separate shower cubicle and a separate guest cloakroom. Capital Wharf is located moments from glamorous St Katherine Docks. The apartment is available furnished. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Landmark Tower West, E14

£1625 pcm £375 pcw

One bedroom luxury apartment that comes tastefully furnished. The specification includes floor to ceiling glazing, comfort cooling throughout, engineered wood flooring, kitchens with granite finishes and Siemens appliances, bathrooms with marble finishes and Villeroy & Boch sanitary ware. Energy Band – B.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

ULTIMATE WINTER W E L L N E S S R E T R E AT S For those looking to swap the Christmas bulge with a healthier start to the New Year, Health and Fitness Travel have exactly what you need4

Image credit: PedroMatos/Shutterstock.com

Image credit: Alik Mulikov/Shutterstock.com

Offering healthy holidays around the world, make a break with tradition and embrace the gift of winter wellness.

‘Tis the Season to Surf: Bali Komune Resort Yoga & Surf Forget the British winter and escape to the Komune Resort, near the famous Keramas reef break. With private and group surfing classes, this retreat is perfect for beginners and pros alike. Stretch out any postsurfing tightness with yoga classes and experience other Bali adventures such as white water rafting and volcano hiking.

Seasonal Stress Relief: Spain Marbella Club De-Stress Emotional Rebalance Begin your New Year along the ‘golden mile’ of southern Spain. With a healthy dose of Mediterranean sunshine, life coaching sessions and relaxing thalassotherapy spa treatments, you’ll soon find yourself letting go of stress and morphing into a more balanced being. Combined with a range of classes including yoga, meditation and beach workouts, you’ll be sure to be feeling your best.

New You Nutrition: Italy Ti Sana Basic This New Year, embrace a nutritious new you on an organic vegan detox retreat. Aiming to improve the well-being of those who put a daily strain on their liver through an unhealthy diet, learn from the best during nutrition and cooking sessions. Embrace the choice of three spa treatment routes (slimming, relaxing or energising) and return home feeling a whole new you.

Festive Fitness: Oman Zighy Bay Sense of Functional Fitness Bring some festivity to your fitness regime this winter, surrounded by mountains and set within its own secluded bay on the Musandam Peninsula of Oman.

Recover with reviving spa treatments or take your Arabian adventure up a gear with additional activity options including paragliding and mountain biking.

Winter Wonderland Wellness: Switzerland The Alpina Gstaad Ski & Spa Guarantee yourself the white Christmas you’ve been dreaming of at the stunning Alpina Gstaad in the Swiss Alps. Escape to this winter wonderland and enjoy skiing across five nearby ski areas in the Gstaad Region. Off the slopes, keep active with ice-skating before rejuvenating at the luxury Six Senses Spa. In the evening, venture into the wine cellar and enjoy delicious cuisine with stunning views of the glacier.

Seasonal Solos: St Lucia The BodyHoliday Escape the winter cold and soak up the sunshine on a solo holiday in St Lucia. With a hosted singles table every evening and an array of group fitness classes, this all-inclusive wellness retreat is ideal for those looking to escape the family drama this Christmas. Start the New Year getting back on the fitness ladder with sports and activities, including personal training sessions, tennis, scuba diving and yoga. Unwind in the award-winning spa and welcome the New Year feeling rejuvenated.

For more infor visit: www.healthandfitnesstravel.com n

Benfleet

I found everybody in Fisks very helpful and I was very satisfied and pleased with every aspect of my sale. There is no possible way to improve the services as I was very pleased with the outcome.

- Ms J Monk

Good service and a wellestablished firm. We feel Fisks worked hard to ensure we were able to exchange and complete within the desired time frame.

- Ms C Deans

We hadn’t been very happy with our previous agent. We felt that Fisks were far more pro-active in promoting our property and getting plenty of viewings. Plus doing the open-house was a good idea. No room for improvement! -Ms Stromer

I trust Fisks. Really happy with how smoothly and stress free buying my house was made by the professionalism by Fisks.

- Mr J Whereat

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

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

Docklands Fisk Docklands Ltd Suite 2 Parker House Admirals Way Marsh Wall London E14 9UQ T: 0207 517 8810 F: 0207 517 7902 E: docklands@fisks.co.uk Property Management: 0207 517 8811

fisks.co.uk