Fisks Gateway issue 74

Gateway

THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 74

inside this issue KEEPING YOUR HOME CLEAN AS A PET OWNER HOW TO CLEAN THAT OVEN AND HOB GET RID OF DAMP, CONDENSATION AND MOULD PLUS THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

CONTENTS KEEPING YOUR HOME CLEAN AS A PET OWNER

Keeping your home clean and odour free when you have a pet is harder than it first seems - follow our tips to make life easier

HOW TO CLEAN THAT OVEN AND HOB After cooking that Christmas dinner, it’s time to get cleaning that oven and hob… Because somebody’s gotta do it!

GET RID OF DAMP, CONDENSATION AND MOULD Follow our advice to keep your home damp, condensation and mould free

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...

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 leave 2020 with much needed good news for all - the uncertainty of a no deal Brexit is now behind us, and Covid-19 vaccines are being rolled out throughout the country as I type this. 2021 already seems like it is off to a good start, and with reports of the UK seeing the highest housing growth in six years in 2020, despite the challenges we all faced, there has never been a better time to buy or sell.

If you’re looking to buy or sell this year then do contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help. With our expert team and extensive marketing you’re in safe hands with us at Fisks.

Stay safe out there and have a very good new year.

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Keeping your home clean as a pet owner

Keeping your home clean and odour free when you have a pet is harder than it first seems - follow our tips to make life easier

From muddy paw prints on your carpets, to stubborn pet odour and never ending pet hair on your clothes and furniture, it’s a good job we love our extended family members because it is can be difficult to live with them at times. The following tips are for all you pet owners out there.

Easier way to clean that muddy carpet It’s not difficult to guess which is the main battleground for pet stains and stubborn muddy paw prints in the house. It is tempting to just immediately wipe any mud away with a wet cloth and be done with it, but instead of doing that, let the mud dry and scrape off the dried dirt.

Time for a wash Don’t just wash your pets, wash their beds and accessories too.

Always choose a pet bed that’s machine washable to make your life easier.

Stock up on those anti-bacterial products for those hardwood floors It comes as no surprise that floors can harbour a host of dirt and germs, and even more so if you have a pet wandering around. Use anti-bacterial products when mopping floors to keep your home clean and safe. Also, double check that all used products are safe to use around animals.

Wash those cushions We all like to cuddle up to our pets on the sofa, but unfortunately this is the easiest way that pet odour stays lingering. It’s important to regularly wash your cushions to avoid those pet odour smells staying around. Wash your cushion covers with non-bio detergent and tumble dry them after for an extra fresh smell.

Buy a sticky roller Keeping pet hair off your clothes and furniture is tough at the best of times, so it’s time to invest in a handy sticky roller.

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.

HOLTYNGE, SOUTH BENFLEET £394,995 Extended Three Double Bedroom Semi-Detached Bungalow Fantastic Sized Rooms Throughout Luxury Four-Piece Bathroom Modern Refitted Large Kitchen Extended Lounge-Diner Recently Redecorated Throughout Garage With Parking

CALL 01268 565555

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HAZELWOOD, NORTH BENFLEET £172,000 One Bedroom Ground Floor Apartment In North Benfleet Good Condition Throughout Integral Kitchen Appliances Parking On Site Shower Room Approximately 146 Years Left On Lease

CALL 01268 565555

CRESCENT ROAD, SOUTH BENFLEET GUIDE PRICE: £990,000 £1,000,000 Luxury Five Bedroom Detached Property Balcony Off Master Bedroom Five En-Suites Landscaped Garden Backs On To Boyce Hill Golf Club Open Plan Kitchen/Dining Room/ Lounge

CALL 01268 565555

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FIRFIELD ROAD, THUNDERSLEY GUIDE PRICE: £329,995 £339,995 Four Bedroom Semi Detached Property Bedroom On The Ground Floor Potential To Improve Three Double Bedrooms Cul-De-Sac Location Outbuilding In Garden

CALL 01268 565555

STANLEY ROAD, THUNDERSLEY £289,995 Two Bedroom Semi-Detached Bungalow In Need Of Minor Redecoration Throughout Garage With Private Parking Short Drive To Benfleet Train Station Perfect For A Buyer Wanting To Put Their Stamp On A Property No Onward Chain

CALL 01268 565555

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HIGHLANDS ROAD, BOWERS GIFFORD £377,000 Four Bedroom Semi-Detached Chalet Style Property Potential To Improve Bedrooms On Both Floors 100ft Long South Facing Rear Garden Refitted Shower Room Good Sized Rooms Throughout Parking At The Front

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!

HOW TO CLEAN THAT OVEN AND HOB After cooking that Christmas dinner, it’s time to get cleaning that oven and hob…

Because somebody’s gotta do it!

Cleaning is nobody’s favourite thing to do, especially when it comes to the kitchen. In fact, in a recent survey, some people would wait up to a year and a half before taking on the challenge. But, leaving it for a long period of time makes it more difficult in the long run thanks to a huge build up of grease, dirt, and unrecognisable food leftovers.

It’s time to get those gloves on and those products out.

The shelves Slide out the oven shelves and soak them for an hour in a sink-full of hot water and dissolved soda crystals. Scrub away any leftover food on the shelves with a scrunched-up ball of foil and then rinse and allow to dry.

If more actions is needed, then why not use a specialised oven cleaner to clean your oven and its shelves. Remember that oven cleaners cannot be used on stainless steel ovens, and always wear rubber gloves.

If you’re lucky enough to own a dishwasher and your oven shelves fit inside it, then why not give them a clean that way.

The inside Always cover the floor in front of the oven with newspaper and start by scraping off any food leftovers from inside. Spray your chosen specialised oven cleaner inside while avoiding the heating elements.

For any hard-to-reach places use a toothbrush. Leave to work for the recommended time.

If you want an alternative method to traditional chemical oven cleaners then make your own by mixing half a cup of bicarbonate of soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply this method to the oven and leave it overnight before rinsing it away with hot water.

The door If you can remove the glass door from your oven, then do so now to make your life easier - if not, then still follow these instructions. A top tip is to use a combination of products - we recommend The Pink Stuff and a simple dishwasher tablet. Say goodbye to that grease and grime by applying The Pink Stuff with a cloth and then rub it in with the dishwasher tablet. Use a sponge and hot soupy water to rinse the door clean.

The hob As you let the oven cleaner do its work, why not get working on the hob. If you have them, remove any burners or rings and wash them in hot soapy water. Spray the hob with your chosen multi-surface cleaner and wipe with a soft cloth. If your hob requires more attention to get nice and clean then use a scourer.

MAGNOLIA CLOSE, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE: £500,000 £525,000 4/5 Bedroom Detached House Large Conservatory Extension Studio/Gym Room 4 Large Bedrooms Upstairs With En-Suite To Master Good Size Easy Maintenance Garden Approx 30ft Deep 60ft Wide

CALL 01268 510510

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ST. MARKS, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE: £260,000 £280,000 Three Double Bedroom Terrace House Stunning And Newly Fitted Bathroom Beautiful Additional Shower Room Downstairs Off Street Parking And Garage Space Easy Access To Benfleet Station

CALL 01268 510510

TONGRES ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE: £235,000 £245,000 Two Bedroom Link-Detached Bungalow Separate Dining Room / Additional Reception Room Man Cave/Office Room In The Garden Short Distance From The Town Centre No Onward Chain

CALL 01268 510510

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CRESCENT ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE: £250,000 £260,000 Two Double Bedroom Detached Bungalow No Onward Chain Large Conservatory To Rear Modern Fitted Kitchen Off Street Parking Seafront Location

CALL 01268 510510

KINGS PARK VILLAGE, CANVEY ISLAND GUIDE PRICE: £170,000 £180,000 Two Bedroom Park Home Double Glazed Throughout Well Maintained 17’ Kitchen/Diner Minimal Work Needed Communal Parking Sought After King Parks Location

CALL 01268 510510

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KINGS PARK VILLAGE, CANVEY ISLAND £190,000 Two Double Bedroom Park Home 18ft Lounge 18ft Kitchen Roadside Short Walk To The Park Facilities Close Proximity To The Lake And Exit No Onward Chain

CALL 01268 510510

Get rid of damp, condensation and mould Follow our advice to keep your home damp, condensation and mould free

If you’ve noticed a musty smell, dark marks appearing on your walls, peeling wallpaper, cold walls, and/or excessive condensation on your windows then there’s good chance you have or are at risk of damp, condensation and mould, which can potentially cost you thousands of pounds if not dealt with as soon as possible.

What causes mould and damp?

Simply put, mould and damp is caused by condensation. As the temperature falls outside, condensation rises inside, creating moisture on windows which will eventually cause mould and damp. That’s not the only cause though - leaking pipes, wastes or overflows might be to blame too.

How to get rid of condensation?

Wipe down your windows every morning. By doing this you will stop any mould from building up.

Stop that steam when cooking by covering pots and pans when cooking. This won’t just prevent steam escaping, but also saves on energy too, which is a huge plus.

Keep that bathroom door closed when having a shower or bath. We all like to have a hot shower or bath from time to time but they can produce a lot of moisture around not only the bathroom but the whole house.

Open those windows. Letting in a bit of fresh air, even for 10 minutes each morning, will help out greatly.

A dehumidifier will be a great investment if you’re experiencing any amount of condensation. This is one of the best ways to reduce the level of humidity in the air.

Don’t hang your clothes to dry inside. If possible, always hang your clothes to dry outside - even in the winter months. This will help avoid condensation from the wet clothes in your home. If you don’t have a garden then perhaps invest in a tumble dryer.

For more serious problems, we advise that you contact a qualified surveyor. They will take a moisture reading of your home, identify the cause of the problem(s) and advise you on the right course of action.

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