Fisks Gateway issue 59

Gateway THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 59

inside this issue ADDING VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY 5 TIPS TO KEEP YOU COOL ON THOSE HOT SUMMER NIGHTS EXPLORE SOME OF THE BEST MUSIC FESTIVALS PLUS ALL OF THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES

CONTENTS ADDING VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY Buying a new kitchen, bathroom or conservatory could add huge value to your property, but which would give you the biggest value boost?

5 TIPS TO KEEP YOU COOL ON THOSE HOT SUMMER NIGHTS We’ve all been there - tossing and turning in bed with the sheets sticking to us due to the latest heatwave. Follow our 5 tips to help you avoid those sleepless nights.

EXPLORE SOME OF THE BEST MUSIC FESTIVALS It’s July, which means only one thing for some people, we’re smack bang in the middle of festival season.

OUR PROPERTIES

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

Welcome to our Gateway magazine...

Can you believe that we’re over halfway through the year already? The weather is finally getting warmer, the sun is shining, and more importantly, the good weather seems to be getting people out there and exploring the property market more.

Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, sell, or let, the market is slowly increasing, despite what the headlines sometimes say.

John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director

As well as having a selection of our properties for you to take a look at, we have a little of everything in this month’s edition of Gateway - our articles this month cover everything from keeping cool in the summertime, to an informative read on how to add value to your property, to exploring some of the best music festivals in the UK. If you have any questions about the properties featured in this month’s edition, please contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help.

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ADDING VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY Buying a new kitchen, bathroom or conservatory could add huge value to your property, but which would give you the biggest value boost?

Before you ask yourself to spend on an extension or conservatory, you need to see how much value they will actually add to your property and whether the time and effort would be worth it - remember, every property is different.

A recent survey carried out by the National Association of Estate Agents revealed the top home improvements that could add the greatest value to your property.

Half of the participating estate agents who responded in the survey agreed that adding a bedroom, usually by converting your unused loft space, is the best modification to add value, while other respondents suggested that an extra bathroom or new kitchen will add the best value.

Depending on size, the average cost of a loft conversion is £15,000 - £40,000 but can add 10% to the property value, while adding an extra bathroom could cost you between £2,500 - £6,000 but add 6% to the value, and a new kitchen could be £8,000 but add 5% to the value.

Now, of course, if loft conversions and adding extra bathrooms seem a bit too much for you, then never underestimate a serious de-clutter and redecoration throughout - fit new carpets, paint those radiators, get rid of that gym equipment gathering dust in the corner. The moves you make when selling your property could add many thousands of pounds to its value… But remember, as we already said, every property is different so do your research before spending.

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

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.

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

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.

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 E: benfleet@fisks.co.uk

HORNBEAMS, BENFLEET OIEO ÂŁ435,000 Located in a quiet cul-de-sac is this detached family home comprising a ground floor cloakroom, lounge, large fitted kitchen, dining room, study, brick-based conservatory, four double bedrooms on the first floor with a modern four-piece family bathroom.

The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with a patio area and the garage has been converted to offer the space for a utility room. To the front is a secure metal fence with a gate; good for secure parking. The property comes with solar panels (owned). Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

THE BIRCHES, BENFLEET £315,000 Large semi-detached family home situated in a quiet cul-de-sac providing lots of off-street parking. This lovely property benefits from an open plan lounge/ diner/kitchen, 20ft extension conservatory, three double bedrooms and an integral garage which could be converted (STPP). Externally there is a large 60ft garden which provides access to North Benfleet Hall Woods.

Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

LOUISA AVENUE, BENFLEET £650,000 Refurbished and totally modernised detached family home offering large living space throughout. The property features a fantastic sized reception hall, study/ television room, ground floor cloakroom, dining room, fitted kitchen, lounge, five bedrooms on the first floor, two en-suites and a fourpiece family bathroom. The front drive allows for up to four/five vehicles and the rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with a hard-standing patio area. Energy Band – C.

CALL 01268 565555

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HIGH ROAD, BENFLEET £340,000 This fantastic sized, three storey, semi-detached property has been modernised to a high standard and incorporates a lounge, separate dining room, brick-based conservatory, fitted kitchen and shower room on the ground floor, while on the first floor there are three bedrooms and a family bathroom and a fourth bedroom on the third floor.

The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with patio area to the side and sheds to remain.

Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 565555

PATTERDALE, BENFLEET £215,000 Show home condition first floor maisonette comprising two double bedrooms, family bathroom, fitted kitchen, lounge/diner and third bedroom/dining room. The property has been wellmaintained to a very high standard with new carpets having been laid throughout, plus there is the added benefit of a private garden.

Energy Band – C.

CALL 01268 565555

HAZELWOOD, BENFLEET £165,000 With good space throughout and a lease of 146 years, this well-maintained ground floor apartment features a lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, bathroom and one good sized master bedroom.

There is plenty of communal parking available with the added bonus of having a garage in a block nearby.

Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 565555

KENTS HILL ROAD, BENFLEET £350,000 This semi-detached chalet has recently been redecorated throughout and offers a lounge, third bedroom/study, high specification galley-style fitted kitchen leading to a good-sized brick conservatory plus two double bedrooms on the first floor with a family bathroom.

The rear garden features artificial grass and a shed/ summerhouse to remain.

Energy Band – E.

CALL 01268 565555

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HOMEFIELDS AVENUE, BENFLEET Guide Price £600,000 £625,000 Executive, five-bedroom detached property offered in show home condition. The accommodation incorporates a lounge, sitting room/ bar, separate dining room, utility room, shower room, fitted kitchen, five bedrooms on the first floor with bath en-suite to master bedroom and refitted four-piece family bathroom.

Externally there is a double garage and private drive, while the rear garden is perfect for entertaining with its low maintenance, hard standing area, hot tub and brick-built BBQ. Energy Band – B.

CALL 01268 565555

5 TIPS TO KEEP YOU COOL ON THOSE HOT SUMMER NIGHTS We’ve all been there - tossing and turning in bed with the sheets sticking to us due to the latest heatwave. Follow our 5 tips to help you avoid those sleepless nights.

If you’re like us, then you’re probably guilty of rushing to the local supermarket to buy a fan when the weather takes a sudden turn, or you have an extra cold shower for that tiny bit of respite - the British summer may be short but it can certainly pack a punch.

If you don’t have a pricey top of the range AC then living through a hot summer can seem impossible sometimes, so we’ve put together some helpful tips and advice for you to make things a little easier.

1. Cotton is the right way to go

4. Be creative with your fan

Light-coloured bed linens made of lightweight cotton (Egyptian or otherwise) are breathable and promote ventilation to the whole bedroom.

If you’re relying on that newly purchased fan to keep you cool then don’t just drop it in the middle of the room and hope for the best, point fans out the windows so they push hot air out. And don’t forget, adjust ceiling fan setting so the blades run counter-clockwise you want the blades to pull hot air up and out the room.

2. Freezer heaven This one sounds weird, but does work - trust us. Stick your sheets in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before turning in for the night. To avoid any unwanted fridge or freezer contents ending up on your sheets, place them in a plastic bag first. This won’t last all night, but it should provide a little respite.

3. Cold water bottle Hot water bottles aren’t just great for the winter, instead of leaving it to gather dust in the corner of the room, fill it with cold water, pop it in the fridge, and voila, you have yourself a bed-friendly ice pack to keep you company.

5. Say goodbye to your love bug This one may not be good for all you love bugs out there but sleeping alone will reduce your chances of waking up as a hot sweaty mess considerably.

Cuddling up to your partner is good in the winter but the combined body heat is a big nono in the summer. Also, sorry to say, but if you’re one of those people who let their pet sleep in bed with them, that is also a no-no.

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

With excellent rail connections into the City from neighbouring Benfleet station and thanks to development in recent years, Canvey offers a wide range of exceptionally reasonablypriced 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.

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

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 E: canvey@fisks.co.uk

Thorney Bay Road, Canvey Island Guide Price £375,000 £400,000 Situated in one of the most soughtafter roads on Canvey Island is this spectacularly presented semidetached family home that provides three/four spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms and ample off-street parking. The property boasts a stunning open plan dining room that leads into a beautiful bespoke kitchen. The rear garden offers a lawn plus a raised decked area with a hot tub. Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 510510

Wamburg Road, Canvey Island Guide Price £210,000 £220,000 This immaculately presented one-bedroom detached bungalow is situated in a quiet and sought-after location. The property comprises a lounge which has access to the fitted kitchen and garden with the hallway being just off to the right providing access to the bathroom and bedroom. The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn while to the front there is off street parking plus a garage. Energy Band – C.

CALL 01268 510510

Crofton Avenue, Stanford-Le-Hope £350,000 This spacious, mid-terraced family home offers an abundance of space.

Downstairs there is a large lounge, fitted kitchen, separate office/utility room and conservatory, while upstairs are three good sized bedrooms and the family bathroom. The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn and there is off street parking to the front. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 510510

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Atherstone Road, Canvey Island £269,995 This no onward chain, semidetached bungalow needs refurbishing to create a good sized two-bedroom property in a desirable sea front location. The property has had two extensions built and offers plenty of space to the side providing the potential for further extensions and dormers in the roof space (STPP). Internally there is a huge 26ft lounge and a 12ft x 8ft kitchen. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 510510

Wamburg Road, Canvey Island £215,000 This pleasant one-bedroom detached bungalow resides on a quiet no-through road and features a 30ft unoverlooked rear garden.

Internally the property has been very well looked after and has double glazing, a fitted kitchen and a modern combination boiler.

Additional benefits are off street parking for two cars plus a garage. Energy Band – Awaiting.

CALL 01268 510510

Kings Park, Canvey Island ÂŁ114,995 This lovely, larger than average, one-bedroom park home has dimensions of 40ft x 12ft, creating extra space for a separate diner and increased floorspace. The easily accessible wet room and modern fitted kitchen provide ample living space.

CALL 01268 510510

Kings Park, Canvey Island ÂŁ165,000 This beautifully presented two-bedroom park home is flooded with natural light and features a picturesque sitting area outside which is perfect on those summer days. Internally there is an 18ft lounge with a matching 18ft kitchen/diner, two double bedrooms and a shower room.

CALL 01268 510510

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St. Peters Road, Canvey Island OIEO £235,000 New to the market is this wellproportioned, three-bedroom, midterraced family home that is within close proximity to bus links and local amenities. The property boasts a light and airy interior with big windows to the front and rear, three bedrooms, a separate dining area and downstairs cloakroom. There is also the possibility to extend (STPP). Energy Band – D.

CALL 01268 510510

EXPLORE SOME OF THE BEST MUSIC FESTIVALS It’s July, which means only one thing for some people, we’re smack bang in the middle of festival season.

The UK has some of the coolest festivals around the globe and are never short of big name acts. On paper, some could say that the UK has one of the most saturated festival seasons in the world - and that’s where we come in, we have put together a small list of festivals that could be of interest to all you party animals out there.

Boomtown

Festival lineup: The Streets, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Prophets of Rage, Groove Armada, Chase & Status, UB40, Chronixx, Slaves Boomtown may not be as well-known as others on this list, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing this diverse and non-commercialised event. You may be chilling to some folk music one minute, and then jumping to some drum & bass the next.

When & where: 7-11 August 2019, Winchester

Creamfields

Festival lineup: deadmau5, Cirez D & Adam Beyer, Martin Garrix, Calvin Harris, Carl Cox, Tiësto, The Chemical Brothers, Swedish House Mafia Attracting tens-of-thousands every year, dance brand Cream has become a global superstar - not bad considering it began as an offshoot from Liverpool’s Cream nightclub.

Creamfields has a devoted following and is continuing to grow year on year.

When & where: 22-25 August 2019, Daresbury

Fusion Festival

Festival lineup: Rudimental, Little Mix, Sigala, Anne-Marie, John Newman, Clean Bandit, Jonas Blue, Dizzee Rascal, HRVY If you want something a little different, this pop heavy music festival could be your perfect choice. Each year the Fusion Festival brings some of the genre’s biggest acts to Liverpool where audiences find themselves singing along to catchy tunes all weekend.

When & where: 31 August – 1 September 2019, Liverpool

Boardmasters Festival

Festival lineup: Florence + The Machine, Foals, Dizzee Rascal, Wu-Tang Clan, The Wombats, Giggs, DJ EZ, Josh Barry, Jorja Smith, Franz Ferdinand If wanting to dance the night away on the south-west coast of England while rubbing shoulders with some of the best surfers, skaters and BMX kings in the country sounds more like your thing, then Boardmasters Festival was made for you. Everything from rap to pop is here for all to enjoy.

When & where: 7-11 August 2019, Newquay

Reading & Leeds Festivals

Festival lineup: Foo Fighters, The 1975, Post Malone, Twenty One Pilots, Bastille, Mura Masa, Royal Blood, Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals Taking place simultaneously, sharing the same bill, the Reading and Leeds Festivals are a pair of annual music festivals that host some of the biggest acts in music, as well as providing a platform for rising and established indie acts. Also, did we mentioned that the events take place over a bank holiday?

When & where: 23-25 August 2019, Reading & Leeds

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BENFLEET Fisks Ltd 146 London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 565555 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 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 E: office@fisks.co.uk Property Management 0207 517 8811

fisks.co.uk Contact your local branch to experience our service and put us to the test.

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