Fisks Gateway issue 73

Gateway

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 73

inside this issue CHRISTMAS TIME AND THE PROPERTY MARKET TAKING CARE OF YOUR REAL CHRISTMAS TREE MAKE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS CRACKERS PLUS THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

CONTENTS CHRISTMAS TIME AND THE PROPERTY MARKET

Just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean the property market comes to a standstill

TAKING CARE OF YOUR REAL CHRISTMAS TREE Keeping your tree green and healthy won’t be difficult after reading our advice

MAKE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

Impress those at your dinner table this Christmas by making your very own crackers

THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

As always, we have some amazing properties for you to take a look at this month

Welcome to our Gateway magazine...

As Christmas fast approaches, and we move into the Government’s tier system once again, we must all remember that this pandemic won’t last forever. With news of a vaccine being 95% affective, there is light at the end of this tunnel.

John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director

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.

We have a number of Christmas related articles for you in this month’s issue of Gateway. We give you information on the property market during this festive time, some advice on how to keep your purchased Christmas tree looking the best it can, and a step by step guide on how to create your own Christmas crackers. And, of course, we have a great selection of properties for you to take a look at too.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all! Be safe out there!

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Christmas time and the property market Just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean the property market comes to a standstill

Sure, the property market may slow down leading up to Christmas due to priorities changing, but did you know that there’s a huge spike in property searches on Boxing Day and the days that follow? In fact, this is the busiest time of the year when it comes to searching for properties.

YOU MUST HAVE AN ONLINE PRESENCE It comes as no surprise when we say that the world has pretty much went fully digital now. With the high-street footfall falling due to the current pandemic it has never been so important to have your property online and on the famous property portals such as Rightmove. People tend to have a lot more free time to browse online over the festive season when Christmas day is out the way so make sure you have a good Estate Agents attached to your property who can market it the right way online.

BUYERS ARE MORE SERIOUS The people who are looking to make a move in December and January are always keen to move fast. Buyers tend to want a fresh start in the new year and is always a good motivation for them.

LESS PREPARATION EFFORT OUTDOORS We all know that preparing your home for viewings will drastically increase the chances of a successful sale, but preparing your home can also take a lot of time. However, far less effort is required for outdoor space during the winter months due to the fact less attention is paid to outdoor space by the viewer.

WINTER TIME HAS ITS BENEFITS There’s nothing like stepping into the warmth and cosiness of a property, so make sure you’ve got that heating and those glowing lamps on. Staging your property with the perfect lighting will work hugely in your favour by highlighting selected corners of the rooms you choose to dress for the viewing, giving you more control over how you want your property to be seen.

SCALE BACK ON THOSE HOLIDAY DECORATIONS If you’re taking viewings during the festive season then cutting back on those decorations is a must. Now, we don’t mean taking away all the festive cheer but cutting back on a few things that clutter your rooms will help you out. No potential buyer wants to step into Santa’s Grotto.

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.

Penny Ash Property Manager Penny joined Fisks as Property Manager in 2020 having worked in property management for a number of years.

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

We cover the whole of South Essex.

Contact us for a free valuation on 01268 565555

Kerrie Watts Property Consultant

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.

Tina Webster Management Accountant 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.

Kerrie has recently joined the Fisks team as a Trainee Consultant.

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.

BENFLEET PARK ROAD, BENFLEET £325,000 Three Bedroom Chalet Walking Distance To The Towns Train Station And High Road Good Sized Bedrooms Catchment To Good Schools In The Area Perfect For First Time Buyers Or Families Ground Floor Bathroom

CALL 01268 565555

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LONDON ROAD, BENFLEET £325,000 Garage And Off Road Parking Modernized And Extended Property Outbuilding In Garden Currently Used As Cinema Room Three Bedrooms Conservatory

CALL 01268 565555

STANLEY ROAD, BENFLEET £289,995 Two Bedroom Semi-Detached Bungalow In Need Of Minor Redecoration Throughout Sought After Location Garage With Private Parking Short Drive To Benfleet Train Station No Onward Chain

CALL 01268 565555

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ELMHURST AVENUE, BENFLEET £560,000 – £575,000 Fantastic Condition Throughout Good Location Large Living Space Throughout En-Suite To Master Bedroom Utility Room Ground Floor Cloakroom Garage South Benfleet

CALL 01268 565555

TIMBERLOG LANE, BASILDON £475,000 Refurbished Two Bedroom Bungalow Situated On A Large Plot Show Home Condition Large Rear Garden En-suite Four Piece Family Bathroom Conservatory

CALL 01268 565555

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CRESCENT ROAD, BENFLEET £990,000-£1,000,000 Five Bedroom Detached Property In South Benfleet Four Years Old Show Home Condition Throughout Five En-suites Landscaped Garden Backs On To Boyce Hill Golf Club Four Piece Bathroom En-suite To Master Bathroom

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!

Taking care of your real Christmas tree Keeping your tree green and healthy won’t be difficult after reading our advice

So you’ve bought your perfect real Christmas tree for the holiday season, but how do you take care of it and make sure it stays green, healthy and safe throughout the season? Follow our advice below to keep your tree looking the best it can.

TIME TO TRIM Once you’ve got your Christmas tree home it’s important to check if your seller made a fresh cut straight across the base of the trunk to aid water absorption. If not, now is the time to get that handsaw out and do it yourself. Cut Christmas trees, just like cut flowers, remain fresh for a certain amount of time by taking up water through capillary action, but when not in water the pores in the old cut will most likely have become blocked with sap, preventing water getting through.

GIVE IT WATER Giving your tree water regularly is one of the most important things you can do to keep it looking its best. Giving the tree too little can cause resin to form, which means the tree won’t absorb water and will dry out quicker. The rule of thumb is for every inch of the trunk’s diameter, you must fill the stand with one quart of water.

There are many stories of people adding things like bleach or aspirin or sugar to the water but most experts agree that just plenty of clean water will keep your tree looking fresh and healthy. Check the water level daily and refill when needed.

KEEP IT AWAY FROM HEAT You’d be surprised at how many people put their tree in front of the radiator or even close to a fireplace - not only is this unsafe but it will dry out your tree in record time.

If your home is prone to dryness, try using a humidifier to add moisture to the room. A good humidifier will add enough moisture to the air and will keep your tree fresher for longer. Also, lowering the temperature in the room where the tree sits will slow down the dryness process even further.

DECORATE SAFELY Decorating the tree is always the best part of Christmas, but safety can often be overlooked. Inspect those cords and make sure they aren’t frayed or have been bitten by pets, and double check that all your connections are secure.

If you are decorating your tree with small ornaments make sure they are out of the reach for small children to prevent accidental breakage or ingestion.

JASMINE CLOSE , CANVEY ISLAND £460,000 - £475,000 Spacious Five Bedroom Detached House Gorgeous 17ft Modern Fitted Kitchen Beautiful Conservatory To Rear Five Double Bedrooms Including Two Loft Rooms Large Garage Space

CALL 01268 510510

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TONGRES ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £240,000 - £250,000 Two Bedroom Link-Detached Bungalow Extended To Rear Two Double Bedrooms Seperate Dining Room / Additional Reception Room Man Cave / Office Room In The Garden Low Maintenance Rear Garden

CALL 01268 510510

TEWKES ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £240,000 - £250,000 Two Bedroom Detached Bungalow Bright And Airy Lounge Diner Two Double Bedrooms Conservatory To Rear Recently Decorated Throughout Off-Street Parking For Two Cars Fantastic Area

CALL 01268 510510

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KINGS PARK, CANVEY ISLAND £174,995 Modern Throughout Well Maintained Close to Kings Lake En-Suite to Master Bedroom Modern Fitted Bathroom Spacious Throughout Over 50’s Only

CALL 01268 510510

RAINBOW ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £370,000 3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow Huge Rear Garden Secluded And Private 30ft Garage En-Suite To Master South Facing Garden Off Street Parking

CALL 01268 510510

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KINGS PARK, CANVEY ISLAND £135,000 - £145,000 Two Bedroom Single Width Park Home Well Presented Throughout Popular Layout Bright And Airy Lounge Modern Kitchen And Bathroom Raised Patio

CALL 01268 510510

Make your own Christmas crackers Impress those at your dinner table this Christmas by making your very own crackers

Tired of buying the same old Christmas crackers year on year? Want to add a personal touch? Then why not follow our step by step guide on creating your very own Christmas crackers? You could even get the kids involved too if you’re looking to keep them busy.

You will need the following: • Sheets of A4 patterned paper, wallpaper or plain paper to decorate • Cardboard tubes (e.g. toilet roll tubes or kitchen roll tubes) • Washi tape • Cracker snaps (can be purchased on Amazon) • Some ribbon or string to tie • A craft knife • A pair of scissors • Some glue • Fillings (e.g. tissue paper hats, toys, games, jokes, anything you like)

Let’s get making: 1. If you’re not using patterned paper, then begin by decorating the outside of your cracker any way you want, then set aside until it’s dry.

2. Position your A4 sheet of paper face down on a flat surface so the longest sides are at the top and bottom. Position your cardboard tube in the centre of the paper lengthwise.

3. At each end of the tube, making sure you do not cut through the paper, score your paper softly with a pair of scissors. This step will make it a lot easier to create your cracker ends.

4. Now it’s time to get that shape. Wrap your paper around the cardboard tube and overlap the edges slightly so there’s enough paper to glue in place - you will now have that all important shape.

5. Twist one side of your cracker around the ends of the cardboard tube and then secure it with festive ribbon and feed your cracker snap through.

6. Here’s the fun bit. Start adding your cracker fillings, but remember not to overfill it. Once this step is done, secure the other side of your cracker with your chosen ribbon.

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

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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