Fisks Gateway issue 65

Gateway

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 65

inside this issue RESOLUTIONS FOR A BETTER HOME THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ESSEX IN 2020 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU PLUS THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

CONTENTS RESOLUTIONS FOR A BETTER HOME After the Christmas and New Year rush, it’s time to get your home organised and streamlined for the year ahead.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ESSEX IN 2020 We don’t like to brag but Essex is an amazing place if you know where to look - follow our list of things to see and do and see if you agree with us.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU If you promised yourself you were going to lose weight or exercise more in 2020, then perhaps our help and advice will be useful to you on your way to success.

THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

As always, we have a great 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 New Year has started with a bang in terms of the property market - we’ve had interest early on in January, which is a great sign for all. Now that the Brexit mess is being sorted out, people are more confident with the market as a whole it seems. Looking ahead, it is my view that activity will grow throughout the coming months as people, both buyers and sellers, finally look to make a move in the right direction.

In this first issue of Gateway in 2020, we focus on the year ahead. We have resolutions you can make for a better home, things you can do in Essex in 2020 (when the weather warms up perhaps), and a few tips for you if you’re struggling with that new exercise routine you promised you’d do in 2020.

And don’t forget, to view any of the properties in this month’s issue, just give us a call. We’re here to help!

fisks.co.uk

RESOLUTIONS FOR A BETTER HOME After the Christmas and New Year rush, it’s time to get your home organised and streamlined for the year ahead.

A new year doesn’t just mean a new you... It’s a great time to get things in order at your home too. Follow our helpful tips to get your year off in the right direction.

Clear out those kitchen cupboards This step should be done throughout the year, not just because it’s a New Year. It’s time to re-stock all your staples – flour, sugar, condiments and tinned goods – but as you do so clear out all the items you know you aren’t going to use until next Christmas. You won’t be using those half-opened jars of cranberry sauce or mincemeat so use it or lose it today.

Don’t double up – it creates unnecessary clutter Before you head down to the supermarket, check your stocks of toiletries, cleaning materials and other household staples before you go this year. We’re all guilty of using the line “I’ll buy more, just in case” as we shop but it creates chaos in your cupboards. Keep a memo pad in the kitchen to take note of what needs replacing.

Keep shoes and boots under control and out of the way Want to stop yourself tripping over shoes, boots and trainers as soon as you get home after a long day? It’s time to invest in that shoe rack. Better yet, a wooden crate, pop-up storage bench or tub by the front door or in the hallway might work better if you have small children.

Put your post in one place and get rid of that junk mail We’ve all been there, we’ve all left that pile of letters on the kitchen table to gather dust before... But not anymore!

It’s time to assign one place for all your post and treat it as a ‘holding area’, and then, twice weekly, go through the pile and file away what you need and then bin what you don’t - you don’t need yet another menu for that takeaway down the street.

Time to work out what to do with the washing This is a great tip if you have messy teenagers. Instead of a laundry bin in the bathroom, invest in a set of drawstring cotton laundry bags to hang on the back of every bedroom door. This will avoid dirty clothes piling up on the floor and is also more hygienic as the bags can be washed too.

Make cleaning easy on yourself It’s always easier, and more likely that you’ll actually clean, if cleaning materials are at hand, so keep a basic brush-up kit in every part of the home - bathroom, kitchen, nursery, etc. This will also save you time and effort and make an ongoing domestic routine much less of an overbearing burden.

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.

fisks.co.uk

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.

BRACKENDALE COURT, BASILDON GUIDE PRICE £210,000 £215,000 End Of Terrace Property Two Bedrooms For The Over 55s Modernised Throughout En-Suite Toilet To First Floor Bedroom 97 Years Left On Lease Energy Band – F

CALL 01268 565555

fisks.co.uk

ROSEBERRY AVENUE, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £350,000 Extended Semi-Detached Property Three/Four Bedrooms Versatile Accommodation Wash Rooms On Both Floors Private Parking On Driveway No Onward Chain Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

NORTHERN AVENUE, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £319,995 Extended Semi-Detached Bungalow Two Bedrooms Extended Fitted Kitchen Separate Dining Room Fantastic Condition Throughout Private Driveway Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

fisks.co.uk

NORTHVILLE DRIVE, WESTCLIFF-ON-SEA GUIDE PRICE £210,000 First Floor Apartment Two Bedrooms Good Sized Rooms Throughout Private Rear Garden Permit Parking 125 Year Lease Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 565555

GLEBELANDS, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £415,000 Detached Property Four Bedrooms Separate Dining Room Ground Floor Cloakroom Utility Area Private Rear Garden Energy Band – E

CALL 01268 565555

fisks.co.uk

CHURCH ROAD, BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE £285,000 Semi-Detached Chalet Two Bedrooms In Need Of Modernisation Utility Area Ground Floor Bathroom Good Sized Rear Garden No Onward Chain Energy Band – Awaiting

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.

fisks.co.uk

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!

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ESSEX IN 2020 We don’t like to brag but Essex is an amazing place if you know where to look - follow our list of things to see and do and see if you agree with us.

1. Osea Island When it comes to islands, Essex has more than any other UK county, 35 to be exact, and one of our personal favourites is Osea Island – our ‘Essex gem’ and idyllic get-away in the Blackwater estuary. You can even stay on the island choose from the 400-year-old cottages, the Manor House or the Captain’s House to make the experience that little more special.

2. Chelmsford City Racecourse Forget Ladies Day at Ascot (and, of course, the hassle of getting there), and spend the day at Chelmsford City Racecourse Ladies Day. The only racecourse in the UK with an all-weather track, and plenty of indoor viewing areas if it rains or gets a bit chilly... Which, let’s be honest, it will.

3. Lee Valley White Water Centre Want something a little different? Want to get that blood pumping? Ever wanted to know what it feels like to be an Olympian? If your answer is ‘yes’, then this one is perfect for you. You can ‘ride the rapids’ at the White Water Centre at Lee Valley – the only purpose built venue for the Olympics, and where Team GB won the canoe slalom in 2012. This one is for your inner adrenaline junkie.

4. Southend Pier Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty love it here - they love it so much that their television series, Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast has filmed here many times. Coming in at 1.3 miles long, the Southend Pier is the longest pleasure pier in the world - and it feels like it too if you choose to walk it rather than take the train to the end.

5. Colchester Zoo Keeper for the Day Did you ever dream of being a Zoo Keeper when you were a kid?... Well, now you can! Step into the boots of a Zoo Keeper for one amazing day at Colchester Zoo where you’ll find yourself feeding the meerkats, elephants, giraffes, penguins, sea lions, tigers and primates.

6. Hot Air Ballooning And finally, there’s no point in travelling to places like New Zealand to experience flying in a hot air balloon when you can do it for a fraction of the cost in good ol’ Essex. Experience Essex like never before and take to the skies.

“Bes Ben we n kep the

BENDERLOCH, CANVEY ISLAND OIEO £210,000 End Of Terrace Family Home Three Spacious Bedrooms Spacious Kitchen Close To Local Amenities In Need Of Redecoration No Onward Chain Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 510510

fisks.co.uk

LINDEN WAY, CANVEY ISLAND OIRO £260,000 Semi-Detached Bungalow Two Bedrooms Potential To Extend (STPP) Space For Loft Conversion Spacious Garden Quiet Location Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 510510

MEADOW VIEW WALK, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £275,000 £290,000 Semi-Detached House Four Bedrooms Large 18ft Lounge New Fitted Kitchen Good Size Garden Approximately 50ft Wide Energy Band – Awaiting

CALL 01268 510510

fisks.co.uk

BIRCH CLOSE, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £325,000 £350,000 Detached House Four Bedrooms Kitchen/Diner Deceptively Spacious Garage And Off-Street Parking No Onward Chain Energy Band – B

CALL 01268 510510

OXFORD ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE £230,000 £240,000 Detached Bungalow Two Spacious Bedrooms Newly Fitted Kitchen Redecorated Throughout Sought After Location Low Maintenance Rear Garden Energy Band – D

CALL 01268 510510

fisks.co.uk

SOUTH PARADE, CANVEY ISLAND £375,000 Extended Semi-Detached House Four Spacious Bedrooms En-Suite & Dressing Room To Master Bedroom 25ft Lounge Landscaped Rear Garden Close To Seafront Energy Band – C

CALL 01268 510510

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU If you promised yourself you were going to lose weight or exercise more in 2020, then perhaps our help and advice will be useful to you on your way to success.

Every year, millions of people make New Year’s resolutions, hoping to spark a positive change in themselves. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, only 46% of people who made New Year’s resolutions were successful.

That means over half of the people who set a goal for the new year, judging from what we already know, will fail. The most common New Year’s resolutions (every year) are lose weight and exercise more - both of which seem impossible if your daily routine leaves you with no time already. But, fear not, we all need a bit of extra help sometimes, and with a few tweaks in your routine, you’ll be on the right path in no time. YOU. CAN. DO. THIS.

Mentally prepare for change Changing ingrained habits is no easy task, so before diving head-first into your New Year’s resolution, it is important to take a step back and get ready for that impending change. Willpower is the key ingredient of success.

Set a goal that motivates you You would be surprised how often people set goals that are not for themselves.

These goals could be dictated or coerced by a manager, spouse, or parental/ peer pressure. While it’s nice to have some external support, if you don’t share the same passion, the resolution has a small chance of succeeding and could even be dead on arrival.

Limit resolutions to a manageable amount A common mistake in resolution setting is having too many and spreading yourself too thin. It’s easy to get carried away when making resolutions, but we aren’t superheroes. We only have so much attention span we can dedicate to self-improvement, so having too many resolutions is a great way to fail.

Share your resolutions with others Sharing is caring... Or, in this case, sharing will force a sense of obligation and accountability. As crazy as it sounds, if you tell others about your resolution, like a family member or friend, they become a part of your resolution and, with that, you will start feeling a great sense of guilt if you don’t go through with it. Guilt is often more powerful than self-motivation.

Review your resolution regularly Let’s face it, if you aren’t thinking about your resolution regularly, you aren’t going to follow through with it. Thus, a crucial part of realizing your goal is a regular review. At a minimum, this review should be monthly, but the more frequent the better. Get that notepad out!

If you fall off track, get back on quick Your resolution will take time to become a reality, don’t be put off by setbacks, leave some room for mistakes. Skipping an intermediate task is not a complete failure, missing a goal by 5% or even 95% is not a complete failure. A moment of weakness is meaningless in the grand scheme of things. This is your year, and you can do a lot in it.

Follow us on your favourite social media platform to keep up-to-date on everything Fisks

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

Here to help you on the following property matters

fisks.co.uk

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