Fisks Gateway issue 100

CONTENTS

SPEED UP BUYING/SELLING

We have plenty of advice on how you can speed up the buying/selling process.

MAKING YOUR RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME

It’s time to put your own stamp on your new rental without losing that deposit.

THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

As always, throughout this issue, we have a handful of our properties for your consideration.

Welcome to our

magazine

Welcome to the 100th issue of our increasingly popular Gateway magazine.

Throughout the years of producing this magazine, Fisks have brought you amazing properties, helpful advice, and great tips to help you get the most from your property and local area. I’d like to personally thank those regular readers, and welcome those new readers, too -THANK YOU!

In this issue, we take a look at how you can speed up the buying and selling process, give you tips on how to make your rental property a home, and bring you a small selection of our amazing properties for your consideration.

Enjoy this 100th issue of our Gateway magazine! Here’s to 100 more!

John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director

SPEED UP BUYING/SELLING

We have plenty of advice on how you can speed up the buying/selling process.

Whether you’re buying or selling, you probably want the whole process to move as quickly as possible. While the average conveyancing timeframe is between eight to twelve weeks (if everything goes well), many buyers and sellers find themselves frustrated with the waiting time. As estate agents, we understand you want the process to be over with as soon as possible, so, with that in mind, we bring you a few steps you can take to speed up the process...

INSTRUCT YOUR CONVEYANCER BEFORE YOU MAKE AN OFFER ON YOUR DREAM HOME

If you didn’t know already, conveyancing solicitors can’t begin their work until they’ve conducted anti-money laundering checks. We recommend you instruct your conveyancer first so that these checks can be done to stay one step ahead.

GET THAT MORTGAGE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

Before you get ahead of yourself and start property-hunting, do your research into what type of mortgage you want and how much a lender will lend to you. For speed, it’s important to get yourself a Mortgage Agreement in Principlenot only will this help you better understand what you can afford, but will also help you complete your full mortgage application without delay once you’ve had your offer accepted. If you’re lucky enough to get financial help to buy your home, then tell your conveyancer as soon as possible as they will need to write a ‘gifted deposit’ document for the lender.

LOOK FOR ONLINE CONVEYANCING AND MORTGAGE SERVICES

Most estate agents out there will suggest legal firms they frequently work with during the buying or selling process, but if you want to go with your own choice, make sure you do your research or have a good recommendation from a friend or family member. By choosing a conveyancing solicitor or mortgage service that uses an online system should speed things up as they will allow you to verify IDs online, let you sign documents digitally, and give you real-time updates.

INSTRUCT YOUR CONVEYANCER TO ORDER LOCAL SEARCHES

Local searches shouldn’t take more than 10 working days, but can often take longer and cause frustrating delays. If the local searches are taking longer than usual, check if you can get them done more quickly by using a search company to do a ‘personal local authority search’. It won’t cost the earth and can speed things up greatly.

TIME TO ARRANGE YOUR SURVEY

If you have any concerns about your potential dream home, then flag them to your surveyor as soon as possible. If the survey reveals an issue, you may want to renegotiate the asking price or even reconsider the purchase altogether.

For more ways to speed up the process, continue reading this issue of Gateway.

Meet the team...

Ian Carey Sales Manager

Harriet Plampton Sales & Lettings Consultant

Simon Pring Director

Nicola Rattenberry Director’s P.A.

John Pring Director

Tina Webster Management Accountant

Leanne Wright Administration Manager

Penny Ash Property Manager

Albie Poole Property Consultant

Our Vision & Strategy

The residential estate agency market is increasingly populated by large corporations; nevertheless, our independent family-run estate agency continues to succeed and grow a loyal client base, due to our core values, ethos and flexible approach to clients’ requirements.

Kerrie Watts Property Consultant

Ben Nelson Property Consultant

Ebony Woods Office administrator

FEATURED PROPERTIES

ESSEX WAY, BENFLEET

£450,000

Huge Summer House In The Garden (Possible Annexe)

Three Bedroom Semi Detached Bungalow

Potential To Put Your Own Stamp On It

Approx 90ft Garden

5 Minute Walk To Benfleet Station

CALL 01268 565555

IVY ROAD, BENFLEET

£459,995

Three Bedroom Semi Detached Chalet Bungalow

Downstairs Bathroom With Upstairs Washroom

Large Living Room With Bay Window

Throughoutconservatory With Underfloor Heating

West Facing Garden

CALL 01268 565555

FEATURED PROPERTIES

HIGH ROAD, SOUTH BENFLEET

£525,000

Large Three Bedroom Detached Chalet Style Property

Development Opportunity

Large Plot

Vehicular Access To The Front And Rear Of The Property

Bedroom On The Ground Floor

Large Conservatory

CALL 01268 565555

WAVERLEY ROAD, BENFLEET

£340,000

Two Bedroom Semi Detached Property In Popular Street In Benfleet

Separate Dining Room (Previously The Third Bedroom)

Car Port

Large Conservatory Private Driveway

Sought After Street In Benfleet

CALL 01268 565555

FEATURED PROPERTIES

NEW PARK ROAD, BENFLEET

£625,000

Immaculately Presented, Large, Four Double Bedroom Detached Property For Sale

Separate Dining Room

Utility Room Study

Large, Double Shower En-Suite

Width And A Half Garage

CALL 01268 565555

£400,000

HIGH ROAD, BENFLEET Modernised Two Bedroom

Detached Bungalow

Two Double Bedrooms

Refitted Kitchen And Refitted Shower Room

Show Home Condition Summer House Garage

CALL 01268 565555

SPEED UP BUYING/SELLING (PART

2)

Welcome

GET YOUR PAPERWORK IN ORDER

If you’re selling, you’ll need to complete a property information form. This form will give the prospective buyer detailed information about the property and will include details of any disputes or complaints as well as documents such as certificates from renovations.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD ESTATE AGENT

Despite us all living in a digital world, the role of an estate agent is as important today as it was 50 years ago. The job of your chosen estate agent is to speak to the buyer, the vendor and their legal representatives regularly to make sure everything is on track. Remember, estate agents don’t get their commission until the sale has been completed, so, just like you, they also want the selling and buying process to go through as quickly as possible. Estate agents will always have your best interests at heart and address any concerns you may have along the way.

GET YOUR BUILDING INSURANCE IN TIME FOR EXCHANGE OF CONTRACTS

This step is usually a condition of the mortgage agreement. You must arrange building insurance for your new home before the exchange of contracts. It’s worth shopping around to save a few pounds.

We offer some more helpful advice on how to speed up the buying/selling process...

Don’t be afraid to ask for updates from your conveyancer and estate agent. It’s always good to be fully informed about the progress and to make sure your case isn’t at the bottom of the priority pile.

BE READY TO ACT

If any queries come up, answer them immediately. Waiting by the phone or refreshing your email inbox should be your new full-time job, after all, you don’t want the process to be delayed because of your reaction time.

OTHER COMMON CONVEYANCING PROBLEMS

In conclusion, the most common issues when it comes to delays is because the buyer or seller, or their conveyancing solicitors, are taking their time when responding to enquiries, but there are other reasons that can play a part, too...

• Building survey revealing problems

• Problems with the property title

• Missing information from the seller

• Issues with the buyer’s mortgage application

• A probate sale

• Property searches-related as the local authority is too slow to respond

• Being in a chain

• Buying a new build property that just isn’t ready

If you’re looking for a trusted estate agents, please consider us at Fisks. We have 50+ years of local experience and our friendly professional staff are waiting to help you.

Why use FISKS?

The industry has changed hugely with the development of digital technology - this has created two different styles of agency, the traditional high street agency, and the modern online agency. At Fisks, we believe that the best solution is to be both.

Fisks still do the traditional marketing methods that you are comfortable with, such as high street shop locations with window displays, applicant mailing lists, text and email facilities, linked offices, portals such as Rightmove, leaflet drops, floor plans, boards and branded cars.

These marketing tools have been tried and tested for many years, but with the ongoing digital revolution we have also embraced change. These new marketing methods come in the form of a digital property lifestyle magazine that’s produced in house and emailed to over eight thousand people a month, targeted social media campaigns across all the major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, 4k video tours of your property for our successful YouTube channel, enhanced portal marketing, and from a customer service point of view, we have vendor log-ins so you can see viewers feedback and offers on your home at any time.

Our Ethos & Values

We focus on our clients’ requirements and instructions rather than just doing what’s quickest and easiest for us.

Our comprehensive training program ensures that our staff channels their entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm for the benefit of our clients, whilst maintaining the professionalism and customer service associated with our brand.

At Fisks, we believe we have all your marketing needs covered to get you SOLD!

Landlords: Protect your investment with our full property management and marketing...

Protecting your investment should not be taken lightly, with our full management service you can be sure to get the support you deserve...

ARLA - the gold standard professional industry body.

Audited and insured client accounts to protect your money.

Rent guarantee and legal cover - protect yourself with insurance and the increased costs of evicting (subject to status).

Legal hotline - specialised property lawyers helping to answer your questions.

Inventories - protect your deposit with a professional inventory, including time stamped photographs.

Inspection - allay your fears that your asset is being looked after.

Section notices - fully trained and experienced staff can advise and serve the appropriate notice.

Accurate accounting - from monthly statements to overseas landlords, to expenditure and income, we hold all the information the accountant will need.

Gas certificates and EPCs - keep your property complying with the law.

“Happy customer. Very professional service. We had no problems with the sale of our house or the purchase of our new home through Fisks. Staff very pleasant, would definitely recommend.”

- Mr and Mrs Hall

“Fantastic team that pulled out all the stops and helped every step of the way. Friendly pleasant staff.”

- Mrs S Sheavyn

... come and put us to the test!

Don’t just take our word for it, we have many happy customers...

MAKING YOUR RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME

It’s time to put your own stamp on your new rental without losing that deposit.

Just because you’re renting, doesn’t mean you can’t make your rental feel more like a home. Sure, hammering up shelves or painting those walls may not be possible, but there are plenty of other ways you can put your own stamp on your rental without losing any of that all important deposit and upsetting the landlord. Rising property prices in recent times mean it’s more difficult for first time buyers to get on the property ladder - in fact, it’s been estimated that by 2025, 59% of 20-39 year olds will be renting privately. Here at Fisks, we understand your rental pain and have put together a few tips for you to consider...

FEEL THE LOVE

Nothing makes a home quite like that personal touch. Surround yourself with adored objects and photos that bring back memories from trips with family and friends. Place objects on shelving units, desks and window sills. This will make your rental instantly feel like home by transforming an emotionless space into a home filled with memories and love.

MIRROR AND ART

It should come as no surprise that your new rental property may not be to your taste - but, luckily, there are still ways you can put your own stamp on it without reaching for that paintbrush. Consider a large canvas art piece or oversized mirror propped against the wall to break up those solid white walls - not only will they make your rooms feel more homely, they will also be a huge talking point when you have visitors popping in for a glass or two. If you want to hang pictures but your landlord doesn’t want nails hammered into the wall, then it’s time to purchase picture hanging strips. Picture hanging strips will fix most things to the wall without leaving any damage when taking them off, keeping the walls and your deposit intact.

CHOOSE RICH COLOURS AND TEXTURE

Most rentals have boring floors, solid white walls, and (if included) basic furniture, but don’t panic, you still have options to make it eye-catching. To address those boring floors, why not choose a big statement rug? If you’re looking to break up those boring white walls, why not use our previous mirror and art suggestion, or break the walls up using eye-catching curtains in your favourite colour? Basic furniture can easily be addressed with throws and cushions. For an added “wow” factor, don’t be afraid to use pretty glass bottles, vases and candles on shelving units and window sills.

CHOOSE FREESTANDING FURNITURE

Sadly, most rentals lack storage - this means, that in no time at all, you could be faced with a very cluttered home if you’re not careful. It’s time to spend a little cash and get yourself some freestanding storage units. If you want something a little different then choose a bookcase - they offer great storage and will provide plenty of space for ornaments and accessories.

BRING THE OUTDOORS, INDOORS

A lot of rentals lack outside space, so it’s important to bring the outdoors, indoors. House plants are a great low-cost way to make your home feel warm and welcoming. Don’t worry, we’re not saying make your home like the rainforest, one or two house plants will make a huge difference. If you can’t be bothered giving them the attention they need, consider artificial ones.

FEATURED PROPERTIES

PAPENBURG ROAD CANVEY ISLAND

£475,000

No Onward Chain

Four Double Bedrooms

Downstairs W/C

Ample Off-Street Parking

Highly Desirable Castle View Estate (60 Acres)

Three Piece En-suite To Master Bedroom

CALL 01268 510510

THE CHERRIES, CANVEY ISLAND

£475,000

Canvey Seafront Location

3 Bedroom Detcahed Bungalow

Immaculate Throughout

Un-suite

Newly Fitted Kitchen

Wrap Around Garden Garage

CALL 01268 510510

FEATURED PROPERTIES

CHAPMAN ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND

£425,000

Five Bedroom Detached House

Sought After Location

Potential Off Street Parking

Downstaits Shower Room

Open Plan Kitchen/Diner Garage

Great Sized Garden

CALL 01268 510510

HAMILTON COURT, LONG ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND

£180,000

No Onward Chain

One Bedroom ApartmentGround Floor

Desirable Retirement Complex

Stunning Gardens

Over 65s

Immaculate Throughout

CALL 01268 510510

FEATURED PROPERTIES

HELDEN AVENUE, CANVEY ISLAND

£270,000

One Bedroom Semi-Detached Bungalow

Extensive Plot

Immaculate Throughout

Brand New Kitchen And Bathroom

High Specification Throughout

Ample Off-Street Parking

CALL 01268 510510

WAAREM AVENUE, CANVEY ISLAND

No Onward Chain

One Bedroom Detached

Bungalow

Spacious Living Throughout

Ample Off-Street Parking

Great Location

Built-In Wardrobes

£265,000 CALL 01268 510510