When you have children, choosing the perfect home also means selecting the perfect school.
As Ofgem announces a 10% increase, we suggest ways you can cut costs.
The right upgrades can boost your home’s value and attract more buyers.
We start this issue with some promising news for first-time buyers. Lloyds Bank has just announced that they will be offering mortgages up to 5.5 times household income, with expectations that other banks may soon follow suit. This is great news for those keen to step onto the property ladder.
In this issue, we provide guidance on finding the perfect home near the ideal school, share tips on how to save on energy bills, and highlight the best rooms to upgrade to boost your home’s sale price.
I hope you enjoy this issue of Gateway. If any of this month’s properties interest you, please feel free to contact us.
John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director
When you have children, choosing the perfect home also means selecting the perfect school.
For families with school-age children, finding the perfect home often involves more than just the right number of bedrooms or a spacious garden. One of the most important factors to consider is proximity to a good school. Living near a reputable school can not only provide your children with a great education but can also add value to your property and enhance your family’s quality of life. Here’s how to find the right home near the right school.
Before you start house hunting, it’s important to clarify what’s most important to you and your family. Ask yourself:
• What type of school do you prefer? Are you looking for a state school, an independent school, or a faith-based institution?
• What are your educational priorities? Do you value strong academic results, a focus on extracurricular activities, or a nurturing environment?
• How far are you willing to commute? Consider how much time you and your children are prepared to spend travelling to and from school each day.
• Understanding your priorities will help you narrow down your search to areas that align with your family’s needs.
Once you’ve identified the type of school you’re interested in, the next step is to research the performance of schools in the areas you’re considering. In the UK, Ofsted (the Office for Standards in Education) provides inspection reports for schools, rating them from “Outstanding” to “Inadequate.” Reviewing these reports can give you a sense of a school’s overall quality, including its academic performance, teaching standards, and student behaviour.
Additionally, you can look at league tables, which rank schools based on exam results and other performance indicators. While these tables are useful, remember that they don’t tell the whole story. Visiting schools and speaking with other parents can provide valuable insights that go beyond what’s on paper.
Catchment areas are one of the most crucial factors in choosing a home near a good school. A catchment area is the geographical zone around a school that determines which children are given priority for admission. Properties within these areas are often in high demand, and house prices can be significantly higher as a result.
It’s essential to confirm the catchment area for your desired school and ensure the home you’re interested in falls within it. Keep in mind that catchment areas can change from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information directly with the school or the local council.
EXPLORE THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Living near a good school is important, but so is the overall quality of life in the neighbourhood. Take the time to explore the area and consider factors such as:
• Safety: Is the area safe for children to walk or cycle to school?
• Amenities: Are there parks, shops, and leisure facilities nearby that your family will enjoy?
• Transport Links: How easy is it to access public transport or major roads for commuting to work or other activities?
When choosing a home near a school, it’s important to think beyond your immediate needs. Consider how long you plan to stay in the area and whether the school will continue to meet your children’s needs as they grow older. For example, if you’re looking at primary schools, think about the transition to secondary school and whether there are good options nearby.
Additionally, consider the potential impact on your home’s value. Properties near good schools tend to hold their value well and may even increase over time, making your home a sound investment for the future.
Homes near top-rated schools often come with a premium price tag. It’s important to balance your desire for proximity to a good school with your overall budget. Be realistic about what you can afford and consider whether it’s worth compromising on other aspects, such as the size of the home or the length of your commute, to be closer to the right school.
If the perfect property is out of reach, consider nearby areas that offer good value for money while still providing access to quality education. Sometimes, a slightly longer commute can be a worthwhile trade-off for a more affordable home.
Once you’ve found the right home near the right school, be prepared to act quickly. Properties in desirable school catchment areas tend to sell fast, so it’s important to be ready to make an offer as soon as you find a suitable property. Having your finances in order, such as a mortgage agreement in principle, can give you an edge in a competitive market.
TO SUMMARISE
Finding the right home near the right school is a process that requires careful consideration and research. By understanding your priorities, researching schools, exploring neighbourhoods, and planning for the future, you can find a home that not only supports your children’s education but also enhances your family’s quality of life. Remember, this is a long-term decision, so take your time to ensure you’re making the best choice for your family’s needs.
Director
Harriet Plampton Sales & Lettings Consultant
We cover the whole of South Essex.
Contact us for a free valuation on 01268 565555
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.
Fisks Ltd
146 London Road
Benfleet
Essex
SS7 5SQ
Fisks Ltd
85 Furtherwick Road
Canvey Island
Essex
SS8 7AY
£525,000
Two/Three Bedroom Detached Bungalow
Potential To Extended To Rear & In Loft STPP
Fantastic Access To Main Roads/ Bus Links & Shops
Immaculate Condition Throughout 130ft West Facing Rear Garden
CALL 01268 565555
NEW PARK ROAD, BENFLEET
£575,000
Four Double Bedrooms
Guide Price £575,000 - £600,000
Detached House
En-Suite
Large, unoverlooked Rear
Garden Office Garage
CALL 01268 565555
£375,000
Three Bedroom Semi Detached
Bungalow
Guide Price £375,000 - £390,000
Conservatory
Garage & Driveway
No Onward Chain
Large Rear Garden
Close To Shops And Main Routes
CALL 01268 565555
£350,000
No Onward Chain
Semi-detached bungalow on Stanley Road, Benfleet
Spacious lounge/diner ideal for relaxation and entertaining
Two bedrooms with mirrored wardrobes in the master
Practical kitchen
CALL 01268 565555
£400,000
No Onward Chain
Charming three-bedroom semidetached bungalow in Bowers Gifford, Basildon
Modern kitchen and diner, immaculately maintained and ready to move in
Stunning curb appeal with large driveway for multiple vehicles
CALL 01268 565555
KENTS HILL ROAD NORTH, BENFLEET
Sought After Location
Spacious Living Throughout
New Bathroom
Completely Renovated Throughout
Great Community
Large Garden
Garage
£375,000 CALL
As Ofgem announces a 10% increase, we suggest ways you can cut costs.
As Ofgem announces a 10% increase on the energy price cap, saving money on energy bills has become a priority for many households. Whether you’re looking to cut costs or reduce your carbon footprint, making your home more energy-efficient is a smart move. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you lower your energy bills without compromising on comfort.
One of the most effective ways to save money is by switching energy suppliers or tariffs. Many households remain on their supplier’s standard variable tariff, which is often the most expensive option. By using comparison websites, you can find a more competitive deal. Fixed-rate tariffs can offer price stability, protecting you from market fluctuations and allowing you to budget more effectively.
Older appliances tend to use more energy than newer, energy-efficient models. When it’s time to replace appliances, look for those with a high energy-efficiency rating (A+++ is the most efficient under the EU energy label). Although the initial investment may be higher, these appliances consume less electricity and can significantly lower your bills over time.
Insulating your home is one of the best ways to reduce energy consumption. Proper insulation keeps the heat inside during winter and prevents it from entering during summer, reducing the need for heating and cooling. Key areas to insulate include:
• Loft Insulation: Up to 25% of heat loss occurs through the roof. Adding or improving loft insulation is a cost-effective way to keep your home warmer.
• Wall Insulation: If your home has cavity walls, insulating them can reduce heat loss by around a third. For solid walls, external or internal insulation is available, though it can be more expensive.
• Draught-Proofing: Gaps around windows, doors, and floorboards can let cold air in and warm air out. Draught-proofing these areas is a simple and affordable way to enhance your home’s insulation.
Smart technology can help you monitor and control your energy usage more efficiently. Consider installing:
• Smart Meters: These devices provide real-time data on your energy consumption, helping you understand where you can cut back. They also eliminate the need for estimated bills, ensuring you only pay for what you use.
• Smart Thermostats: A smart thermostat allows you to control your heating remotely via a smartphone app. You can set schedules, adjust the temperature, and even use geo-location to ensure your home is only heated when you’re there, reducing unnecessary energy usage.
Small changes in daily habits can lead to significant savings over time. Here are some simple yet effective practices:
• Turn Off Appliances: Many devices consume energy even when not in use. Avoid standby mode by turning off appliances at the plug.
• Use Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs, which use up to 90% less energy and last much longer.
• Be Water-Wise: Heating water accounts for a large portion of energy bills. Shorter showers, using cold water for laundry, and fixing leaks can all help reduce your energy consumption.
If you’re looking to make a long-term investment, consider installing renewable energy systems such as solar panels or a heat pump. While the upfront cost can be high, government incentives and the long-term savings on energy bills make them a worthwhile consideration. Additionally, generating your own energy can protect you from future price increases and add value to your property.
Take advantage of natural resources to reduce your reliance on artificial heating and lighting:
• Open Curtains During the Day: Letting in natural sunlight can help warm your home, reducing the need for heating.
• Close Curtains at Night: Thick curtains or thermal blinds can help keep the heat inside your home during the colder months.
• Use Light-Coloured Paints: Reflective, light-coloured walls can maximise the impact of natural light, reducing the need for electric lighting during the day.
Ensure your heating system is running efficiently by scheduling regular maintenance. A well-maintained boiler can perform more efficiently, saving you money. Bleed radiators to ensure they heat up fully and have your boiler serviced annually to keep it in top condition.
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.
Fisks,
FISKS.CO.UK
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.
Don’t just take our word for it, we have many happy customers...
“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!
The right upgrades can boost your home’s value and attract more buyers.
When it comes to selling your home, making the right upgrades can significantly increase its market value and attract more potential buyers. However, not all renovations offer the same return on investment. To get the most out of your home improvements, focus on upgrading the rooms that have the biggest impact on buyers. Here’s a guide to the best rooms to upgrade to maximise your selling price.
The kitchen is often considered the most important room in the house, and for good reason. It’s where families gather, meals are prepared, and guests are entertained. An updated, modern kitchen can be a major selling point and can significantly increase the value of your home.
• Cabinets and Countertops: Replacing outdated cabinets and countertops with high-quality materials like quartz or granite can give your kitchen a fresh, modern look. Consider repainting or refacing cabinets if a full replacement isn’t in your budget.
• Appliances: Investing in energy-efficient, stainless steel appliances can make your kitchen more attractive to buyers.
• Lighting: Good lighting is crucial in the kitchen. Under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights over the island, and recessed ceiling lights can enhance the space.
• Layout: If your budget allows, consider reconfiguring the layout to create an open-plan kitchen, which is highly desirable for modern living.
Bathrooms are another key area that can make or break a sale. Buyers are drawn to clean, modern, and well-appointed bathrooms that offer a touch of luxury.
• Fixtures and Fittings: Replacing old fixtures like taps, showerheads, and towel rails with stylish, contemporary designs can give your bathroom an instant update.
• Tiles and Flooring: New tiles, especially in neutral tones, can refresh the space. Consider heated floors for an added touch of luxury.
• Vanity and Storage: Installing a new vanity with ample storage can make the bathroom more functional and appealing. A double sink is also a desirable feature for family homes.
• Showers and Baths: If space permits, consider upgrading to a walk-in shower or installing a freestanding bathtub. These features can transform a basic bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
The living room is often the first room buyers see when they enter your home, so it needs to make a strong impression. A well-designed living room can evoke a sense of comfort and style, making it easier for buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
• Flooring: Hardwood floors are highly desirable and can add significant value to your home. If you already have hardwood floors, refinishing them can restore their shine.
• Fireplace: If your living room has a fireplace, consider upgrading it with a modern surround or adding a mantle to create a focal point.
• Lighting: Add a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Recessed lighting and stylish chandeliers can enhance the room’s appeal.
• Paint: A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones can make the space feel larger and more welcoming. Avoid bold colours, as they may not appeal to all buyers.
The master bedroom should be a tranquil, inviting space where buyers can imagine themselves unwinding after a long day. Upgrading this room can make your home more appealing to potential buyers.
• Storage: Built-in wardrobes or custom storage solutions can add both functionality and value. Ample storage space is a big selling point, especially in homes where storage is limited.
• Lighting: Soft, layered lighting creates a relaxing environment. Consider adding dimmable lights or bedside sconces for a cosy feel.
• En-Suite Bathroom: If your master bedroom doesn’t already have an en-suite, adding one could significantly increase your home’s value. Even a small ensuite can be a major draw for buyers.
While technically not a room, outdoor spaces have become increasingly important, especially in a post-pandemic world where people value outdoor living more than ever. Upgrading your garden, patio, or balcony can greatly enhance your home’s appeal.
• Deck or Patio: Adding or upgrading a deck or patio can create an attractive outdoor entertaining area, which is a big selling point.
• Landscaping: Well-maintained landscaping with greenery, flowers, and a tidy lawn can boost curb appeal. Consider adding lighting to highlight key features.
• Outdoor Kitchen or Fire Pit: For a more luxurious touch, consider installing an outdoor kitchen or fire pit. These features can make your outdoor space more functional and appealing.
With remote work becoming more common, a dedicated home office has become a desirable feature for many buyers. Upgrading or creating a home office can add value, especially in homes where space is at a premium.
• Dedicated Space: If possible, convert a spare bedroom or unused space into a home office. Ensure it has good natural light, sufficient electrical outlets, and a comfortable layout.
• Built-In Desks and Shelving: Custom built-ins can maximise space and provide a professional, polished look that appeals to buyers.
• Internet Connectivity: Highlight the availability of high-speed internet, which is essential for a functional home office.
When selling your home, strategic upgrades can make a significant difference in both the selling price and the speed of sale. By focusing on the kitchen, bathrooms, living room, master bedroom, outdoor spaces, and even creating a home office, you can enhance your home’s appeal and attract more potential buyers. Remember to balance your renovation budget with the expected return on investment to ensure you get the most value from your upgrades.
£380,000
Four Bedroom Detached House
Modern Throughout
Ensuite To Master W/C
Utility Room
Integral Garage
No Onward Chain
CALL 01268 510510
£360,000
Three Bedroom Detached House
Kitchen/Diner
W/C
Utility Room
Integral Garage
Conservatory
Potential Four Bed
CALL 01268 510510
£300,000
Newly Refurbished Throughout
Two Bedroom Bungalow
Off Street Parking
Open Planned Living
Newly Fitted Kitchen
Newly Fitted Bathroom
No Onward Chain
CALL 01268 510510
£495,000
Sandy Bay Park Home
Open Planned Living
Exclusive Over 55’S
Unrestricted Viewof Sea Wall And Walkways
Short Walk To Sea Wall, Walks & Sandy Beach
On Site Bar, Restaurant & Pool Facilities
£280,000
No Onward Chain
2-Bedroom Bungalow On Tilburg Road, Canvey Island
Perfect For First-Time Buyers Or Downsizers
Open-Plan Lounge/Kitchen For Entertaining
Bright Conservatory Overlooking Garden
CALL 01268 510510
£325,000
Convenient Location In Wintergardens Suburbs
Close To Local Schools, Shops, And Transport Links
Nearby Canvey Lake For Scenic Walks
Spacious 4-Bedroom End Of Terrace House
Designed For Comfortable Family Living
CALL 01268 510510
