Gateway

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 64

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

inside this issue CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAYS OUT COOKING THE PERFECT TURKEY CHRISTMAS PARTY GAMES FOR THE FAMILY PLUS THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

CONTENTS CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAYS OUT We have a few suggestions for you this Christmas if you feel brave enough to face the cold weather.

COOKING THE PERFECT TURKEY The turkey can make or break the perfect Christmas dinner - all you budding chefs out there, follow our recipe and preparation tips to get the family singing your praises.

CHRISTMAS PARTY GAMES FOR THE FAMILY Keep the kids (and adults) entertained on those family gettogethers.

THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

We have a stunning selection of properties for you to take a look at this month.

Welcome to our Gateway magazine...

John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director

Our Ethos & Values We focus on our clients’ requirements and instructions rather than just doing what’s quickest and easiest for us. We recruit and train the best candidates for our industry and provide them with attainable goals and long term career progression. 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.

The election results are in and Boris Johnson is still our Prime Minister. He’s promised that on January 31st he will “get Brexit done” as we’ve all heard. My view has always been that we just needed a decision one way or the other to end the uncertainty for people. We can expect the market to gain momentum again as the feel-good factor takes hold in the New Year. Christmas is now upon us, and in this issue of Gateway we’ve put together a few helpful Christmas themed suggestions for you. Whether you’re looking for family days out, tips on how to cook that perfect turkey, or even a few fun party game ideas to keep the family amused, we’ve got you covered. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!

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CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAYS OUT We have a few suggestions for you this Christmas if you feel brave enough to face the cold weather.

With so much going on this time of the year it can be difficult to narrow down your search to make this Christmas extra special for the whole family. If you’re looking to stay in Essex and enjoy the local seasonal offerings, we have some great ideas for you to take a look at over the next couple of pages to get you well and truly ready for this festive holiday.

ENCHANTED AUDLEY END Make the most of the winter evenings with an enchanting experience of light, colour and sound as Audley End is transformed into an amazing illuminated world. Step through tunnels and pathways of twinkling lights and marvel as the gardens burst to life in remarkable and unexpected ways. Throughout the charming trail look out for mirror ball alley, a fairy light maze and trees ablaze with colour. At the end of the night, why not even treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine

THE FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE, MARSH FARM The Father Christmas Experience at Chelmsford’s Marsh Farm has a reputation for being one of the best festive family days out in the Essex area. This amazing experience will take the little ones on a magical journey as they meet Santa’s little helpers, who will then help them progress through Elf-ville and graduate from the Elf Academy. Then, if they’re on the “nice list”, they can meet Father Christmas himself.

When: 19th Dec to 22nd Dec, 27th Dec to 30th Dec.

When: 16th Nov to 24th Dec

Where: Audley End Rd, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF

Where: Marsh Farm, Marsh Farm Rd, South Woodham, Ferrers, CM3 5WP

Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk for prices and availability.

Visit www.marshfarm.co.uk for prices and availability.

CHRISTMAS STARLIGHT NIGHT, COLCHESTER ZOO

SANTA’S SPECIAL TRAIN, EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

As Christmas fast approaches, Colchester Zoo is getting ready to host their yearly magical events. The festive spirit will be in full flow as they will introduce us to the fantastic Christmas illuminations. Along with Santa’s Reindeer Stable, Elves’ Workshop, the Christmas train and festive family shows, there is a ton of things for everyone at Colchester Zoo this Christmas.

Hop on Santa’s steam train and let the Christmas spirit flow. As the kids interact with famous characters such as Scrooge and the Grinch, and even Santa himself, relax and listen to some festive numbers being played by the brass band as the journey takes you through the Essex countryside. All children will receive a present from Santa, and adults can enjoy a free drink and christmas treat.

When: 21st Dec to 22nd Dec

When: 30th Nov to 24th Dec

Where: Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, Colchester CO3 0SL

Where: Ongar Station, Station Approach, Essex, CM5 9BN

Visit www.colchester-zoo.com for prices and availability.

Visit www.eorailway.co.uk for prices and availability.

MEET THE TEAM

Ian Carey Sales Manager Ian started his career in the British Army when he was 17 leading teams of up to 8 men. On finishing his military career, he joined the Estate Agency industry where he is a valuable asset to our Benfleet Sales Team.

Harriet Plampton Sales & Lettings Consultant Harriet joined Fisks in 2017 as a Trainee Property Consultant. Having previously worked in sales and public-facing roles, Harriet has combined her natural sales ability with her previous experience to progress within the property agency sector.

Leanne Wright Assistant To Ian Carey Leanne joined Fisks in 2010 after graduating from the University of Greenwich with a 2:1 BA (Hons) in Sociology. Starting off as Branch Administrator, Leanne has gone on to gain experience in Operations, Senior Administration and Property Management.

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John Pring Director John’s knowledge is second to none thanks to his 50+ years in the industry.

Perry Goodwin Digital Marketing Manager Perry recently joined Fisks and brings with him a wealth of digital marketing skills he has gained throughout his career.

Alex White-Miller Property Manager Alex joined Fisks as Property Manager in 2018 and is an essential part of the team.

We cover the whole of South Essex. Contact us for a free valuation on 01268 565555

Tina Webster Management Accountant

Simon Pring Director Simon joined Fisks in 2005 and started on the shop floor as a junior sales consultant and now has 13 plus years of commercial experience - from viewings to property management and sales to completion.

After joining the company in 1988 with a BTEC diploma in Business and Finance, Tina progressed her career within Fisks to that of Management Accountant.

Nicola Rattenberry Operations Manager & Administrator Nicola joined Fisks in January 2014 after graduating from the University of Winchester with a BA (Hons) First Class Degree in History and Creative Writing.

Charlie Maynard Property Consultant Charlie joined Fisks in 2018 as an experienced Property Consultant.

Our Vision & Strategy

Taris Etherton Sales & Lettings Consultant Taris joined Fisks in 2017 as a Trainee Consultant.

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.

HATLEY GARDENS, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £279,995 – £289,995 End-Of-Terrace House Three/Four Bedrooms Fantastic Living Space Throughout Cavity Wall Insulated Ground Floor Cloakroom No Onward Chain Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

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WOODSIDE AVENUE, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £325,000 £335,000 Semi-Detached House Three Bedrooms Good Sized Lounge Dining Room Integral Garage Driveway Parking For Two Cars Energy Band – Awaiting

CALL 01268 565555

SHOREFIELDS, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £445,000 Detached House Four Bedrooms Separate Dining Room 17ft Long Master Bedroom Garage & Private Driveway Fantastic Sized Plot Energy Band – Awaiting

CALL 01268 565555

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PHILMEAD ROAD, BENFLEET £299,995 Semi-Detached Property Two Double Bedrooms Good Sized Corner Plot Extra Length Garage Good Location No Onward Chain Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

GREAT RANTON, PITSEA £230,000 Terraced Property Two Bedrooms Recently Redecorated Throughout Well-Proportioned Lounge Plenty Of Communal Parking Fitted Kitchen & Dining Area Refitted Bathroom & Separate Toilet Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

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ALPHA CLOSE, BOWERS GIFFORD GUIDE PRICE £325,000 £335,000 Semi-Detached Chalet Three Bedrooms Conservatory Modern Fitted Kitchen Fantastic Sized Rear Garden Private Driveway Energy Band – E

CALL 01268 565555

WHY USE FISKS? Throughout the years, we’ve gained first class knowledge that is second to none, and helped people through both good and bad times and have won numerous awards throughout our 50 plus years. We do understand how the market has changed over the years and we have adapted to offer you the best marketing and services available - with us, not only do you get all aspects of a traditional agent, we also give you the best in digital marketing too - including social media, web portals, and our exclusive property video tours that can be seen on our YouTube channel and other streaming services. Our hybrid agency offers you the best of both worlds. As well as offering floor plans, our monthly Gateway magazine that reaches over 9 thousand people, social media exposure of your property, A3 property details and flyer campaigns, we also offer the following... Multiple online portals

Fisks will market your property on all major portals -

Accompanied viewings Let us take the stress out of the viewing process.

Video tours

Let us present your home to the best of its ability.

High end photography

All buyers require good quality photographs before viewing your property.

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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...

Inventories - protect your deposit with a professional inventory, including time stamped photographs. Inspection - allay your fears that your asset is being looked after.

ARLA - the gold standard professional industry body.

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

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.

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!

COOKING THE PERFECT TURKEY The turkey can make or break the perfect Christmas dinner - all you budding chefs out there, follow our recipe and preparation tips to get the family singing your praises.d.

Christmas day to some is a joyous occasion full of good times with the family, for others it’s full of running down to the supermarket and sweating away over a hot stove. We’ve all been there, trying to impress the family with our cooking skills, thinking we’re the next Gordon Ramsay, but in all honesty, we fall a little short sometimes. We’ve put together the perfect turkey recipe and helpful preparation tips for all you budding chefs out there.

ROAST TURKEY WITH ORANGES AND SHALLOTS INGREDIENTS For the Brine: 6 small shallots, cut into halves 3 oranges, quartered 20 black peppercorns 20 whole cloves 4 sprigs of rosemary 1 bunch of parsley 5 anise stars 100g salt

For the Stuffing: 2 oranges, cut into 6 pieces 8 small shallots, quartered For the glaze/basting 100g butter 3 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp orange liqueur

METHOD You will need to start the prep the day before Christmas. DAY BEFORE

Preheat your oven to 200C.

First remove all the giblets and rinse the turkey under cold water.

Place the turkey into a large roasting tin.

Put the turkey into a large bucket/ pot/sink or similar, which will allow you to immerse it completely in water.

Cut the oranges and shallots and put them into the cavity.

Cover the turkey with cold water and add all the ingredients for the brine. Leave to steep over night. ON THE DAY

In a small pan, melt the butter, then add the maple syrup and orange liqueur. Pour the melted butter mix over the turkey and put the whole thing into the oven. Roast the turkey for 3 hours, basting it every 30 minutes.

On Christmas Day, remove the turkey from the brine, rinse and pat dry with Once done, take the turkey out of some kitchen roll. the oven and cover it with tinfoil to rest for 20 minutes before serving.

FURTHERWICK ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £500,000 £550,000 Show Home Condition Detached House Six Bedrooms 26ft Kitchen/Breakfast Room Sought After Location In And Out Drive Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 510510

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FURTHERWICK ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £375,000 Detached Family Home Five Bedrooms Good Sized Lounge & Kitchen/ Diner Immaculately Presented Downstairs Shower Room Close To The Seafront Energy Band – Awaiting

CALL 01268 510510

KORNDYK AVENUE, CANVEY ISLAND OIEO £325,000 Spacious Semi-Detached Family Home Four Bedrooms 19ft Lounge 19ft Kitchen/Diner Downstairs Cloakroom Landscaped Rear Garden Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 510510

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WOODVILLE ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £325,000 £375,000 Detached House Four Spacious Bedrooms En-Suite To Master Bedroom Quiet Cul-De-Sac Double Glazed Throughout Ample Off Street Parking Energy Band – E

CALL 01268 510510

ASH ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £400,000 Detached Bungalow Four Bedrooms Spacious Lounge Kitchen/Diner En-Suite To Master Bedroom Private Secluded Garden No Onward Chain Energy Band – C

CALL 01268 510510

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MEADOW VIEW WALK, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £230,000 £240,000 Mid-Terrace House Three Bedrooms Open Plan Living Accommodation Close To Local Schools Perfect First Time Purchase Fantastic Buy-To-Let Opportunity Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 510510

CHRISTMAS PARTY GAMES FOR THE FAMILY Keep the kids (and adults) entertained on those family get-togethers.

Family gatherings can be a bit hectic sometimes, especially when there is a small army of kids running about and asking “is dinner ready yet�. To calm down the situation, why not keep the kids (and adults) entertained with our handy selection of Christmas party games? (Note: it helps if you let the kids win.)

20 QUESTIONS: CHRISTMAS EDITION 2+ Players

One player, the answerer, picks a Christmas themed object. All other players ask the answerer “Yes” or “No” questions to guess what the object is. If no one guesses correctly after 20 questions, the answerer has won and picks a new object for the next round. If someone guesses correctly they get to pick the object for the next round.

CANDY CANES (Holiday ‘Spoons’) 3+ Players

You’ll need a deck of cards and 3+ people circled around a pile of candy canes, one less than the number of players. Everyone takes turns pulling cards with the goal to be the first to get four of a kind (e.g. four Kings). Once you do, take a candy cane as stealthily as possible. Once that happens, everyone else races to grab one of the remaining candy canes. The person who doesn’t get a candy cane is eliminated. Do this until one winner remains.

SANTA LIMBO 3+ Players

Have participants put a “santa belly� under their shirt using a pillow. Place a limbo stick at a starting height. Then line up, and one by one try to limbo underneath (with the Santa belly) until everyone has tried. Slightly lower the stick and have those who made it through go again. Continually lower the stick until one winner remains.

PIN THE NOSE ON RUDOLPH 3+ Players

Draw (or print out a picture) of Rudolph and place it on the wall. Get a red circular piece of paper (for his nose) with a thumbtack or piece of tape. Then blindfold the participant, spin them in a circle, then have them try to pin the nose on Rudolph. Mark their attempt with their name. Give everyone a chance to pin the nose and whoever pins it most accurately, wins.

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Head Office 146a London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 750000 E: office@fisks.co.uk

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Sales Lettings Property management Mortgages Solicitors Surveys EPCs Property maintenance Planning applications CONTACT US FOR A FREE VALUATION 01268 565555 “Best Estate Agent in Essex! Fisks were fantastic from start to finish, both the Benfleet & Canvey Island branches. The staff are knowledgable, polite & friendly, we never had a bad person. They got us viewings from both the branches. They kept us in touch on every viewing. They also kept us informed on every part of the process, which was very good as we haven’t moved in over 30 years.” - Mrs C Stannard

“NO STRESS USE THE BEST... Excellent customer service... nothing too much trouble... all queries answered with ease... from valuation to completion we found the experience stress free. Very professional friendly staff, would definitely recommend... big thanks to Simon and his team ... till the next time!” - Mr and Mrs Farrer