Fisks Gateway issue 58

Gateway THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 58

inside this issue HOW TO MAKE MONEY FROM YOUR HOME THE MILLENNIAL RENTING GENERATION 5 THINGS TO DO ON THOSE (RARE) FREE WEEKENDS PLUS ALL OF THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

CONTENTS HOW TO MAKE MONEY FROM YOUR HOME

From renting out your spare room to making use of that empty parking space, there’s money to be earned.

THE MILLENNIAL RENTING GENERATION

We delve into the minds of the millennial renter - what exactly do they look for in today’s renting world?

5 THINGS TO DO ON THOSE (RARE) FREE WEEKENDS

Who doesn’t like a top 5? We’ve narrowed down 5 things you can do on those (rare) free weekends.

OUR PROPERTIES

And, of course, we have this month’s properties for you to take a look at.

Welcome to our Gateway magazine...

Everybody recognises June as the start of summer, but looking out the window now, with the grey skies and rain, it does not feel like a summers day. June is also the month that has the longest day of the year; the evenings will start to get shorter and before we know it the summer holidays will have ended. Once again everyone will be talking about how early the shops start promoting Christmas.

John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director

Renting is an important sector of the housing market as we explain in the article on millennials renting. Also, from the 1st June, renting has become cheaper for tenants as landlords and agents can no longer charge tenants any fees.

Essex is one of the largest counties geographically in the UK and is the most underrated when it comes to local attractions.

In the north of the county is Constable country and the River Stour while to the South East lies Southend, not forgetting London with all the attractions of a major city to the west.

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HOW TO MAKE MONEY FROM YOUR HOME

From renting out your spare room to making use of that empty parking space, there’s money to be earned.

s i h s a r t s ’ n a m e n o , t e ” g e r r o u f s t a e r t s ’ “Don’ n a m r e h anot

Need a holiday but can’t afford it?

Want to clear your credit card debt?

Want to be mortgage free as soon as possible?

There are plenty of surprisingly simple ways to make money from your home.

The rise of websites like Airbnb have shown that people are not shying away from staying in real homes instead of hotels. If you’re leaving the county for a length of time, do not hesitate making your property available as a holiday let.

If you live in the town centre, or nearby a busy train station, the chances are you could rent out your driveway or garage if you’re not using it. Websites such as JustPark and YourParkingSpace.co.uk are great places to start if this takes your fancy.

Probably the most common way to make money from your home is by renting out your spare room. If you happen to live in a location that has easy access to cities like London, then it won’t be too difficult to find a tenant.

Another idea is to rent out your spare room as a storage room for others. Most dedicated storage facilities charge around £60-£120 a month so there is definitely some money to be made here.

Or, if you find yourself short on space, then why not sell your items?

Don’t forget, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Most items around your home can be sold at car boot sales or online. Free up space AND make money, it’s win-win.

MEET OUR BENFLEET TEAM Our centrally located estate and letting agency branch offers a professional sales, lettings and property management service for the Benfleet and surrounding areas benefitting from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.

Ian Carey Sales Manager Ian started his career in the British Army when he was 17.

Progressing from Rifleman to Lance Corporal, Ian led 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.

Located some 30 miles east of the City of London on the north bank of the Thames Estuary, the mainland portion of Castle Point Borough - which also encompasses Canvey Island - is primarily based around three historically separate settlements, which gradually merged during the 20th century. The residential areas are now said to have the highest proportion of owner occupancy in the country - which speaks volumes for the quality of life here!

The mainland station in South Benfleet services the entire area and is the busiest commuting station on the Fenchurch Street C2C line.

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 progressed to various different roles within the company, gaining experience in Operations, Senior Administration and Property Management.

Fisks Ltd 146 London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 565555 F: 01268 566291 E: benfleet@fisks.co.uk

ELM VIEW ROAD, BENFLEET £475,000 This fantastic extended, three bedroom detached bungalow has been maintained to a very high standard and is located within close proximity of both Benfleet high street and train station. The property benefits from a modern kitchen, extended lounge, raised dining area plus an en-suite shower to the master bedroom. The main feature of this home is the large rear garden which has been well-tended by the current owners, featuring a lovely lawn with trees, shrubs and plants plus a new patio area. Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

TAMARISK, BENFLEET £450,000 This show home condition, four bedroom, detached property is located in a quiet cul-de-sac close to Benfleet train station. The ground floor comprises a cloakroom, lounge, dining room and fitted kitchen, while to the first floor are the four bedrooms – the master benefiting from an en-suite shower room – and the family bathroom. Energy Band – C.

CALL 01268 565555

MALWOOD DRIVE, BENFLEET £340,000 This extended semidetached property has been well-maintained throughout and comprises a lounge, separate dining room, galley-style kitchen, fourth bedroom and cloakroom to the ground floor, with three bedrooms and a family bathroom upstairs. The rear garden is a good size and there is a garage and drive to the front. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 565555

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HIGH BEECHES, BENFLEET £360,000 Built only five years ago, this immaculate three bedroom, semi-detached house can be purchased with all the furniture and blinds to remain if required.

The property features a modern kitchen with granite worktops and a sunken dining area plus the added benefit of an en-suite shower room to the master bedroom. Energy Band – B.

CALL 01268 565555

CROFT ROAD, BENFLEET £305,000 Offered in fantastic condition is this two bedroom semi-detached bungalow in South Benfleet.

The property has been modernised and extended to create a large second reception room to the rear.

The garden is mainly laid to lawn with both patio and decked areas, while the front driveway offers off street parking for three vehicles.

Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

SEAMORE AVENUE, BENFLEET £295,000 This well-presented, semidetached house has been extended at the rear to provide a separate dining room and large master bedroom. The property also features a fitted kitchen, lounge, three double bedrooms and a family bathroom. The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn while to the front there is a driveway plus an integral garage.

Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 565555

GLEBELANDS, BENFLEET £427,500 Well-maintained throughout with a separate dining room/ study/fifth bedroom is this lovely detached property in a popular cul-de-sac.

The accommodation offers a fitted kitchen, lounge/ diner and four good sized bedrooms. The secluded rear garden is approximately 75ft long and mainly laid to lawn.

Energy Band – E.

CALL 01268 565555

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LOUISA AVENUE, BENFLEET £650,000 Refurbished and totally modernised, the vendor has turned this property into an executive five bedroom detached home. Internally there is a fantastic sized reception hall, cloakroom, study, separate dining room, fitted kitchen and lounge to the downstairs, while upstairs provides five bedrooms, two en-suites and a family bathroom. Energy Band – C.

CALL 01268 565555

THE MILLENNIAL RENTING GENERATION

We delve into the minds of the millennial renter - what exactly do they look for in today’s renting world?

The renting sector is increasing year on year as millennials (a millennial is anyone who reaches young adulthood in the early 21st century) stray further away from the property buying market.

So, with that in mind, what exactly are millennial renters looking for? We wanted to offer some helpful tips to all you landlords out there.

Because of the increase in house prices, it is hardly shocking that millennials make up the dominant demographic within the rental market. For landlords, it is more important than ever before to know the lifestyles and desires of your potential renters.

Despite what those flashy car advertisements say, Millennials are growing less and less concerned about cars and driving, and are more concerned about access to public transport – a half-mile walk from the nearest station seems to be the sweet spot in terms of convenience and pricing. Also, in today’s world, it’s becoming more and more clear that it’s not about the name of the city, it’s more about the convenience of the neighbourhood –what nearby amenities does the neighbourhood have? A supermarket? A nice pub to have a few drinks in on a Friday night? A restaurant? A gym? A coffee shop? A park for a quiet walk on the weekend? All these things are taken into

consideration when millennials look for their perfect place to rent. Other bonuses include, pet-friendly properties, any outdoor space, and even a storage unit for their bicycle… if they happen to be into that sort of thing of course.

Renting is now cheaper than buying in more than 50% of British cities according to new data – this figure has increased by 14% since October 2016. Due to increasing conveyancing costs and removal fees, millennials find themselves in situation that their salaries often can’t match. Renting is a far better choice for millennials due to the costs of deposits, mortgages and other home moving costs.

“Renting is now cheaper than buying i n more than 50% of British c ities”

MEET OUR CANVEY TEAM Our office located at the heart of Canvey Town Centre offers a sales, lettings and property management service for Canvey Island and the surrounding areas benefits from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.

Simon Pring Sales Manager Simon returned to Fisks after 5 years in the intense executive car sales environment working for BMW.

With excellent rail connections into the City from neighbouring Benfleet station, Canvey is today permanently connected to the mainland via two road bridges, offering fast access to the M25 and East Anglia via the A12 trunk road. However the island still manages to preserve an independent character and a vibrant community spirit all its own.

Thanks to development in recent years, Canvey offers a wide range of exceptionally reasonably-priced property, from first time buyer apartments to detached executive homes - many with stunning views across to the wooded Hadleigh Downs, and along the estuary towards Southend.

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

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

Fisks Ltd 85 Furtherwick Road Canvey Island Essex, SS8 7AY T: 01268 510510 F: 01268 697126 E: canvey@fisks.co.uk

GAFZELLE DRIVE, CANVEY ISLAND £350,000 This deceptively spacious detached chalet oozes charm and character from every room. You will be greeted by a spacious hallway with the lounge and third bedroom with en-suite bathroom to the left, while the fourth bedroom/ office, downstairs bathroom, 16ft kitchen/diner and utility room are to the right. On the first floor you have two bedrooms both in excess of 17ft in length. The un-overlooked rear garden is very tranquil and picturesque, while to the side of the property is a single garage. Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 510510

KINGS PARK, CANVEY ISLAND £210,000 Offered for sale is this extremely spacious and rare 42ft x 20ft park home.

The property benefits from a good sized lounge, kitchen/diner, two double bedrooms with an en-suite to the master plus a three piece bathroom. There is also the opportunity to buy with most of the furniture included as it is all around six months old.

CALL 01268 510510

HANDEL ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £210,000 New to the market is this one bedroom detached bungalow that would make the perfect downsize or starter home with a possibility to convert the garage into a second bedroom (STPP). The property boasts a good sized master bedroom, a three piece bathroom suite, off street parking and a garage.

Energy Band – E.

CALL 01268 510510

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THE ASHLEIGHS, CANVEY ISLAND £150,000 Nestled in a sought-after location is this immaculately presented first floor apartment close to Benfleet train station. The property comprises a 22ft hallway with loft access, a good sized bedroom, a light and airy lounge which leads on to the kitchen and a three piece bathroom. Externally, there are communal gardens to the front and rear plus parking.

Energy Band – C.

CALL 01268 510510

NORTHFALLS ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £280,000 This extended three bedroom, semi-detached family home boasts a spacious lounge, separate dining area and downstairs cloakroom. The rear garden is relatively secluded and there is also off street parking plus a garage to the front. Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 510510

CRESCENT ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND £310,000 This impressively sized, two bedroom, detached bungalow is situated on a substantial corner plot only a short stroll from the seafront. Internally, there are bay windows to the front providing the lounge and master bedroom with plenty of light, while to the rear of the property there is a spacious kitchen/diner and an 18ft conservatory. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 510510

KINGS PARK, CANVEY ISLAND £129,995 Delightfully kept and welldecorated one bedroom park home with great square room sizes and attractive bay windows. Located within walking distance to the shop and lake, this property offers a 12ft kitchen and 12ft lounge with french doors opening out on to the property’s rear space.

CALL 01268 510510

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THE RIVERFRONT, CANVEY ISLAND ÂŁ190,000 Residing in a well sought-after location is this spectacular ground floor apartment that boasts two double bedrooms, balcony and a 21ft lounge.

With local amenities, the seafront, allocated parking and offered in fantastic condition, this apartment really is perfect for first time buyers, first sellers and those that want the quieter life by the sea. Energy Band – B.

CALL 01268 510510

5 THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX ON THOSE (RARE) FREE WEEKENDS

Who doesn’t like a top 5? We’ve narrowed down 5 things you can do on those (rare) free weekends.

With a huge variety of things to do in Essex, we’ve decided to put together a tiny list of ideas to make it easier for you to decide...

1. Fancy visiting England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse?... If your answer is ‘yes’, then you’re in luck, because at Layer Marney Tower you can. Steeped in history and full of wonderful things to see and do, this is the perfect weekend idea to keep you occupied and relaxed at the same time. From the house itself and the gardens that surround it, to the farm, tearoom and the gift shop, Layer Marney Tower is sure to keep both adults and kids busy for many hours.

2. If you’re looking for something that’ll keep the kids entertained, then the Great Notley Country Park in Braintree is a great choice. This 100 acres of grassland is full of activities such as sand pits, rope climbers, slides, forts, a water play area, and is even home to a Sky Ropes centre and Essex’s longest play trail – 1.2km. If none of that takes your fancy, the park is also great for birdwatching, kite-flying, fishing, cycling, birdwatching and even horse riding.

3. For something a little different, check out Harwich Redoubt Fort - an anti-Napoleonic circular fort that stands over Harwich harbour. Currently open as a museum, this extremely impressive 180ft (60m) diameter circular fort built in 1808 to defend against a Napoleonic invasion has ten guns on battlements and is a must see for both kids and adults.

4. If you want something a little more on the wild side, then Adventure Island at Southend-on-Sea is the perfect option for you. Giving the thrillseekers exactly what they need thanks to rides such as Rage, Scorpion, Dragon’s Claw and Sky Drop. Not interested in the speed-heavy type rides?

Don’t worry, there are lots of other attractions such as dodgems, karting and even a Sea Life Centre. Or, of course, just help yourself to some classic fish and chips and relax on the beach.

5. And finally, no list would be complete without mentioning Colchester Zoo – a favourite destination for both kids and adults of all ages. With more than 260 species, including chimpanzees, elephants, lions, giraffes, penguins, and meerkats, there is something for everyone. If you feel like getting extra involved, you can book a ‘keeper for the day’ experience package that lets you spend the day behind the scenes with the animals and their keepers.

Follow us on your favourite social media platform to keep up-to-date on everything Fisks BENFLEET Fisks Ltd 146 London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 565555 F: 01268 566291 E: benfleet@fisks.co.uk

Why use Fisks?

Members of NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) and ARLA (Association of Residential Lettings Agents).

Audited clients account.

Free rent guarantee insurance (subject to Terms of Business).

Option to spread payments over the length of lease (subject to Terms of Business).

Two levels of service offered: Let Only and Management.

CANVEY Fisks Ltd 85 Furtherwick Road Canvey Island Essex, SS8 7AY T: 01268 510510 F: 01268 697126 E: canvey@fisks.co.uk Lettings & Management 146a London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 638425 E: alex@fisks.co.uk Head Office 146a London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 750000 F: 01268 758921 E: office@fisks.co.uk Property Management 0207 517 8811

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