Fisks Gateway issue 14

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 14

inside this issue

3RD TIME LUCKY FOR DJOKOVIC? ALEXA’S ARCHIVE THE REAL TASTE OF MEXICO PLUS ALL OF THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

Contents 3rd time lucky for Djokovic?

He won three Grand slam titles in 2011 and 2015 but is 2016 the year, that Novak Djokovic will win all four?

Alexa’s archive Model and Vogue contributor, Alexa Chung has delved into everyone’s favourite high-street giant’s archive and created her very own collection.

The real taste of Mexico Chiquito’s have launched their new street food menu and we went along to try it out…

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

©2014 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.

Welcome to our

magazine...

Welcome to the May edition of our Gateway magazine.

The internet is changing the way people receive information. This magazine is a prime example, distributed monthly by email to over 6000 subscribers plus of course being available on our website and local hardcopy distributed by the offices.

John Pring FNAEA (Honoured) & MARLA | Director

The public have become used to using the internet as their first call for information before making a decision to buy a product or service.

Most people look at TripAdvisor if only out of curiosity to see what other consumers have felt about the service. Estate Agency is no different.

Rateragent is the industry’s independent feedback site, reviewing what you the consumer thinks about an agent’s service. I am happy to say we are really pleased with the positive remarks and the five star ratings Fisks has achieved http://www.rateragent.co.uk.

The market continues to reflect the shortage of stock with many properties selling for over the asking price within the first few days. There is no doubt with interest rates still being very competitive, particularly for buyers with a low mortgage requirement to purchase price. There was an interesting headline the other day generated by research carried out by Legal & General on the ‘bank of mum and dad’. This new ‘phenomenon’ is considered to be one of the top ten mortgage lenders. Parental help is forecast to be involved in over 300,000 mortgages in 2016 split between loans and gifts. This of course is assisting the first time buyers to re-enter the market.

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

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.

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

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Manor Road, Benfleet

£350,000 This magnificent, extended, three bedroom semidetached property on a larger than average plot with an annexe is rarely seen on the market and offers everything a buyer would need. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

£325,000

Kimberley Road, Benfleet

This recently decorated three bedroom semi-detached bungalow offers fantastic living space internally and a 100ft enclosed rear garden. Planning permission has been granted to extend. Energy Band – E.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Glebelands, Benfleet

£385,000 Fisks are delighted to bring to the market this extended, three/four bedroom detached property in a fantastic location which is close to local schools and amenities.

The accommodation includes two reception rooms, ensuite to master bedroom, 80ft south facing rear garden, off street parking for 4/5 cars and garage with power.

Energy Band – E.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

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London Road, Benfleet

£339,995

Glebelands, Benfleet

£329,995

Fisks are pleased to bring to the market this unique, extended four bedroom semi-detached property which offers fantastic living space throughout and is being sold with no onward chain. Energy Band – D.

This generously sized three bedroom property, which is located in a popular area and sits on a large plot with 100ft garden, is ideal for first time buyers and investors. Energy Band – Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

Avondale Road, Basildon

£259,995

Parkfields, Thundersley

£275,000

Fisks are calling all garden enthusiasts to view this modern, extended two bedroom bungalow with beautifully landscaped 80ft rear garden and which is being sold with no onward chain. Energy Band – D.

Fisks are delighted to bring to the market this well presented three bedroom semi-detached property which is ideal for first time buyers or families. Energy Band – D.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

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Crowstone Court, Westcliff On Sea

£1,250,000

Fisks and Hair & Son are delighted to offer as Joint Agents this two floor penthouse flat which has been fitted to an extremely high standard by the original block owner. Located in a prime position on Westcliff Esplanade, the property is accessed by a private lift protected by a secure video entry system with full CCTV video backup.

All bedrooms are located on the first floor, whilst the living accommodation can be found on the top floor. The kitchen area features bespoke handmade units with granite work surfaces and top of the line Fisher and Paykel appliances. The living area has a balcony with 180º views of the Thames. Energy Band – B.

For more information call us today on 01268 565555

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Image: mooinblack/shutterstock.com

Lucky 3rd time

FOR DJOKOVIC? He won three Grand slam titles in 2011 and 2015 but is 2016 the year, that Novak Djokovic will win all four?4

Image credit: Leonard Zhukovsky /Shutterstock.com

Beginning on the 16th May and culminating on the 5th June, the French Open 2016 will take place. Often referred to as Roland Garros, the French Open is a major tennis tournament held in Paris. Named after the French aviator Roland Garros, it’s the premier clay court tennis championship event in the world and the second of four annual Grand Slam tournaments, the other three being the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open.

Due to the slow playing surface and the five-set men’s singles matches without a tiebreak in the final set, the event is widely considered to be the most physically demanding tennis tournament in the world. Novak Djokovic is certainly in for a tough challenge…

Djokovic is a Serbian professional tennis player who is currently ranked world No.1 in men’s singles tennis by the Association of Tennis Professionals. Winner of 11 Grand Slam singles titles, he’s often considered as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. In 2011, he won three Grand Slam titles and became the sixth male player to win three Grand Slams in a calendar year. He then repeated this achievement last year. The French Open is the only Grand Slam that he has never won.

the Pilic Academy in Germany to pursue his career, which he began internationally at the age of 14. His brothers, Marko and Dorde also play the sport.

Djokovic is one of four players to defeat Roger Federer three times in one year and one of two players to beat both Federer and Rafael Nadal in a Grand Slam in consecutive matches. He may be the only player who has defeated both Federer and Nadal in the same tournament on three different occasions but can he do it this year? With Nadal being described as one of the greatest clay court players of all time and his previous success at the French Open, this is another hurdle in Djokovic’s fight for the title.

ITV Sport holds broadcasting rights to show the French Open until 2018 so you can catch all the latest action there. The bulk of the daily coverage is broadcast on ITV4 although both singles finals and other weekend matches are shown on ITV1.

But what is Djokovic’s motto? “Belief is the most common word to me, even more than hope. For one to achieve his dreams, he needs to truly believe in them.”

Yugoslav tennis player Jelena Gencic spotted Novak at just 6-years old. Training him until he was 12, he then went to

Will Djokovic finally win his full four Grand Slam titles this year? We’ll have to wait and see. He also celebrates his 29th birthday on 22nd May so there could be cause for lots of celebrations this month n

Image credit: Neale Cousland/Shutterstock.com

Image credit: Leonard Zhukovsky//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.

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

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Thisselt Road, Canvey Island

ÂŁ384,995

Offered for sale is this fully detached home located close to Canvey lake and town centre. There are four double bedrooms to the first floor with an en-suite to the master bedroom. To the ground floor is a cloakroom, separate utility room, diner/kitchen and a spacious lounge with feature stone fireplace. A key feature to this home is the well-proportioned south facing and un-overlooked rear garden, and there is also off road parking for two cars and a single garage. Energy Band - E.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

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Grafton Road, Canvey Island

ÂŁ425,000

This characterful fully detached home is located in a highly sought-after road close to the town centre and seafront. The property offers four/five bedrooms - one to the ground floor - a spacious family lounge with feature fireplace, modern kitchen/diner and a Victorian style bathroom. In addition the property benefits from double-glazed windows with fitted interior shutters which are to remain. Energy Band - D.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

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Furtherwick Road, Canvey Island

ÂŁ350,000

This fully detached house is a stone's throw from the town centre, a short walk to the seafront and offers ample off road parking to the front and side. Internally the property offers a lounge with double aspect windows, separate dining space and high gloss kitchen with separate utility. The first floor gallery landing gives access to four well-proportioned bedrooms, a family bathroom and separate en-suite. The large rear garden includes ample fish ponds, a decked sun-trap area and provides access to the single garage. Energy Band - Awaiting.

For more information call us today on 01268 510510

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Alexa’s ARCHIVE

Model and Vogue contributor, Alexa Chung has delved into everyone’s favourite high street giant’s archive and created her very own collection4

image Credit: Featureflash/Shutterstock.com

image Credit: Helga Esteb/Shutterstock.com

Alexa Chung has joined forces with Marks & Spencer and she’s rediscovering their archives. This exciting new collection, which launched in April, is curated by style icon Alexa and the M&S design team and features 31 pieces that have been brought back to life with a modern spin.

Entitled, Archive by Alexa collection for Marks and Spencer, the range features clothing similar to that worn by Alexa and it’s clear she’s had a huge say in every piece created. “I have always had an affection for Marks & Spencer. I am thrilled to be part of this special and unique project,” says Alexa.

Taking key items from the M&S archive, Alexa has worked with the in-house design team in order to rejuvenate and refresh every single piece of clothing.

Using modern fabrics and an updated colour palette, Alexa has managed to create a contemporary womenswear line inspired by the 132-year-old retailer’s heritage. Clearly deciding to put a modern twist on much-loved classics, Alexa appears to have chosen pieces that will have a broad, timeless appeal and we love it.

shoulder pads removed to make it on-trend for 2016.

Likely to be the go-to garment at festivals this summer is a paisley-print, high-necked dress called the ‘Eliza’, priced at £45. A pretty gingham ‘Elsie’ frock with puffed sleeves and a bow tie neck, retailing at £39.50, is also likely to be an instant sell out.

Having sifted through 70,000 of the brand’s historical garments, Alexa has also included a fifties-style grey pleated school skirt called ‘Effie’ at £39.50, a £35 stripy ‘Edina’ shirt that can be worn on its own as a dress or over skinny trousers and lace ‘Hattie’ camisoles in lemon and ivory, both £25.

Belinda Earl, Marks & Spencer’s style director, says: ‘It’s Alexa’s vision and creativity and the M&S team, who have made this project come to life. This project is the first of the ‘M&S &’ series - a sequence of unique, exclusive collections in collaboration with some of today’s most exciting designers, brands and fashion icons.”

The collection was unveiled on the eve of London fashion week earlier this year. Alexa attended the showcase wearing the £89 ‘Frances’ khaki trench coat, which was influenced by a hardwearing gabardine coat from the 1950s.

Great things are expected from this collaboration as just last year, Alexa caused a Marks & Spencer tan suede skirt to sell out when she was seen wearing it. She’s also previously had a partnership with Mulberry, where her self-titled bag helped the brand’s profits to soar.

The new collection also features a navy double-breasted jacket with gold buttons from 1989, which has had its

Available in store and online, you can see the 32-year olds collection right now 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.

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

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Discovery Dock East, E14

£700,000

Belgrave Court, E14

£775,000

Leasehold - Guide Price: £700,000 - £725,000 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment benefiting from direct dock views from the living room and a balcony affording glimpses of the City skyline and the O2. Internal accommodation measures approximately 85 sqm/910sqft.

Located just a moment's walk to Canary Wharf Tube means The City and West End are easily accessible. Energy Band – C.

Leasehold - Furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment located close to Canary Wharf Tube Station and the Thames Clipper mooring providing access to The City and West End. The balconies offer south-easterly views towards the river accessed from the living room. Other accommodation includes a separate kitchen and en-suite bathroom with separate shower. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Proton Tower, E14

£425,000

New Providence Wharf, E14

P.O.A

Leasehold - Guide Price: £425,000 - £450,000 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment located a short walk from East India DLR station providing access to Canary Wharf and Bank. The internal accommodation measures approximately 64msq/ 689 sqft and offers a good size balcony accessed from the open plan kitchen and living room affording south facing views of the river Thames & O2 Dome. Energy Band – B.

Leasehold - 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment located close to Canary Wharf and Blackwall DLR. The accommodation includes a good size living room with access to a private terrace. The apartment is currently owner occupied so is presented in excellent condition and includes high specification fixtures & fittings along with tastefully styled furniture. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

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Discovery Dock West, E14

£2275 pcm £525 pw

Furnished 2 bedroom apartment located a short walk from Canary Wharf Jubilee. The accommodation offers a huge terrace which boasts direct dock views, floor to ceiling windows in all the principal rooms and benefits from a secure parking bay and a 24 hour Concierge.

Energy Band –D.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

£1669 pcm

Anchorage Point, E14

£385 pw

1 bedroom apartment benefiting from direct west facing river views from both the living room, bedroom and large balcony accessed from the living room. The apartment measures approximately 56msq/602 sq ft.

Accommodation includes a separate kitchen and bathroom with marble finishing and is located close to Canary Wharf. Energy Ban d – C.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Eden Apartments, E14

£1474 pcm £340 pw

1 bedroom apartment measuring approximately 51 msq/544 sqft, located moments from Island Gardens DLR. Tastefully furnished and decorated, including a contemporary fitted kitchen by Urban Myth and fully integrated Smeg appliances. The bathroom has ceramic and porcelain tiling throughout, bespoke cabinetry and a white suite with chrome taps and mixers. Energy Band B. For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

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Hera Court, E14

£1517 pcm £350 pw

Spacious 1 bedroom apartment measuring approximately 52m sq/560sq ft and includes a good size double bedroom, separate kitchen and large living room overlooking the courtyard. Located just a short walk to Canary Wharf & Jubilee Line Tube, or just moments from Mudchute DLR. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

£1625 pcm

Paper Mill Wharf, E14

£375 pw

Spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment located five minutes from both Westferry and Limehouse DLR. Internal accommodation measures approximately 98m sq/1054sq ft with the reception room and master bedroom both affording stunning views of the river towards Tower Bridge. Energy Band – C.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

Wheat Sheaf Close, E14

1526 pcm 352 pcw

Large 2 bedroom apartment located just a short walk from Mudchute DLR. Accommodation measures approximately 676 sq ft/63 m sq and includes a separate fitted kitchen, family size bathroom, en-suite bathroom to master bedroom and a good size living room with direct Dock views. Energy Band – D.

For more information call us today on 0207 517 8810

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Image Credit: sedat seven/Shutterstock.com

Mexico The real taste of

Chiquito’s have launched their new street food menu and we went along to try it out‌4

Chiquito’s may already be a well-known high-street restaurant chain but this fiery little Tex-Mex is much more than just spicy food and sombrero wearing mannequins!

When choosing a restaurant, atmosphere is as equally compelling as the food itself, and Chiquito’s is bursting with both! We headed to the Leicester Square branch and were lucky enough to taste their new Street Food Menu, which was launched in February and is destined to bring in the crowds during the summer months.

With busy commuters and flashing cameras from tourists, Leicester Square may not be the first location, which comes to mind when indulgent atmosphere is concerned.

However thanks to its layout and clever arrangement, this specific Chiquito’s branch impressively masks the sounds and sights of the busy city, allowing the customer to cocoon themselves in the company of their partner, or in the company of their food for that matter.

The decor itself shouts out, drawing attention to the creative yet majestic culture of Mexico. Bold yellows and reds mixed with the elegant use of woods and indigenous art help to subconsciously submerge every customer into the environment. Overall it’s clear that Chiquito’s is an environment, which is not only a stark yet, welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of London but one which is necessary for enjoying a good meal. With an

array of juices and cocktails, if you close your eyes you’d think you were in Mexico… for a minute.

The addition of a new street food menu is part of Chiquito’s development of the brand. Launching across the 88-strong estate, for the first time Chiquito’s offer a small plates section with dishes such as Spicy Chicken Crispy Tacos, Sweet Chorizo Croquettes and Patatas Bravas, a spicy potato dish. Created after a trip to Mexico last year, managing director Jason Green says the new menu style was designed to tap into the trend for sharing plates and street food.

“The team visited Mexico in 2015 and were inspired by the street food stalls. Chiquito’s naturally attracts parties and groups… street food also lends itself very well to this type of food. Every day the chefs will be hand-pulling pork shoulders… freshly chopping vine tomatoes…and hand-cutting their tortilla chips.”

Although Chiquito’s presence in and around London could definitely be improved, their quality food, service and atmosphere certainly are mucho grandee.

Once again, the old saying that quality really is better than quantity, has been proved!

With expansion planned for later this year, it won’t be long before you’re releasing your inner Mexican in a Chiquito’s near you and we definitely recommend that you do.

For more information and to check out the new menu head to http://www.chiquito.co.uk /menus 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

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