EAST SIDE
INSPIRATIONAL HOMES ACROSS EAST BRISTOL
Welcome to East Side
And welcome to DW Smith & Co Estate Agency.
This is our second edition of East Side Just like the first, this one is packed full of wonderful properties, deep dives into local neighbourhoods, and a celebration of local businesses.
But this edition has a little extra something.
We’re also celebrating ourselves. This year, DW Smith & Co were awarded a Gold Award in the Best Estate Agents Guide 2025. To be independently recognised as exceptional for marketing, service and results is truly wonderful, especially as we were in competition with every estate agency in the country.
My team and I are proud to work very hard for our customers. While our results speak for themselves, it’s also very nice to have our award in our shop window. Do pop by for a visit to see it!
As you consider your first, or next, step on the property ladder, my hope is this magazine is useful for you. Inside these pages you’ll find a snapshot of the homes my team has sold recently which really demonstrate the varied housing stock across East Bristol. You’ll also find some advice pages, written by property experts, on topics our customers care about.
What really shines through on these pages is our passion for East Bristol. We’ve been selling houses here for 25 years. We’re still here because we love this area.
East Bristol is an incredible place to raise a family, explore nature, and to still enjoy proximity to the city. The agents at DW Smith & Co know every nook and cranny of these suburbs.
We’ll be delighted to walk with you and support you as you find your forever home here.
David Smith
No compromise. A romantic cottage, right in the city
The joy of buying in East Bristol means you have two different worlds right on your doorstep. Minutes outside Bristol city centre is this pleasant, traditional cottage.
DW Smith & Co were delighted to recently present this cosy cottage in Hanham to the market.
It’s bursting with historic details inside and out.
Nothing says “cottage” like the original stone walls, deep windowsills, and large fireplace in the separate dining room.
It’s the kind of space you can imagine gathering around the candlelit table for a special meal.
Even in the middle of winter, with snow falling outside the sash-style windows, this home will feel warm and comforting.
Just like a fairytale cottage, it’s far bigger inside than you can tell from the front door. There are two generous bedrooms. The primary bedroom has two large windows which fill the room with daylight. There’s plenty of space to stretch out on slow Sunday mornings in a king size bed, and to even set up a hideaway work-fromhome desk in the neat alcove.
When showing this property, our agents prioritised buyers who had told us they loved period details. The cottage has been lovingly cared for by its current owners, so we made sure to highlight how well maintained it is.
What the owners will miss:
“Even though it’s small, it’s perfectly organised. There’s so much storage and it’s really well designed. Everything you need is right at hand. Cooking in this kitchen is a dream”.
A family home you’ll be proud of
Imagine picking up the keys to the home of your dreams, and not even considering picking up a paintbrush. Simply have the movers drop off your furniture and get straight on with settling in with your kids.
This home is the very opposite of a “project”. There’s not so much as a lawn to mow or a shelf to put up in this exceptional four-bedroom, semi-detached house.
Busy family breakfasts before the school run will be a breeze in the huge open plan kitchen/diner. As the winter nights draw in, the underfloor heating keeps downstairs cosy. Curling up on soft sofas for family movie nights will be a regular treat in the spacious living room.
The current owners have thoroughly improved this home, with excellent attention to detail. Outside, the new double driveway, the fresh rendering, and the well-maintained gardens hint what to expect inside the front door. Throughout the home, decoration decisions have been made with the greatest of taste. From the hardwood parquet flooring downstairs to the crisp granite worktops in the kitchen, every detail is immaculate.
The DW Smith & Co agents were quickly booked with viewings for this popular home. To build enthusiasm, we prioritised families who wanted to live close to local amenities in the centre of Hanham. In the viewings, we highlighted the stunning natural spaces of Hencliffe Woods and Conham River Park which are practically on the doorstep.
The owners love this house:
“We’ll most miss the long summer evenings in the garden. Having the large bi-fold doors open into the kitchen means hosting a BBQ on the deck is so easy. We’d relax with friends overlooking the green woodlands, making memories together”.
A historic home for a modern family
In neighbourhoods all over East Bristol you’ll find row after row of striking Victorian terraced houses. There’s a reason they’re so popular.
The Victorians built solid houses with well-proportioned rooms and big bay windows. They’re also full of precious period features, elegant cornicing and ceiling roses, exposed floorboards, and detailed fireplaces will have you falling head over heels in love.
The current owners told us:
“We love the house and the location so much. We are going to miss having St George Park at the end of our road. Being so close to Church Road means we make the most of the library, independent shops, and lovely cafes”.
In the middle of one of the most popular streets in St George is a classic Bristolian house. The Victorian architectural details grab your heart right from the curb. The double bay sash windows are surrounded by intricate bath stone and let light flood in. Behind the traditional stone façade and original front door, you’ll find cornicing, fireplaces, and high ceilings.
The current owners have tastefully maximised the potential of the home by extending the kitchen space. There is a wonderful flow of flexible space downstairs.
You’ll enjoy games nights with friends on autumnal evenings and slow dancing in the kitchen on anniversaries. Children will be able to play in the garden all summer, coming in and out of the big French doors for ice lollies.
During viewings, DW Smith & Co agents made sure to draw attention to the flexibility of this home. With three lovely bedrooms and a fully boarded loft space, this home would work well for sharing housemates, professionals, couples, as well as a family with young children.
A stunning surprise in a suburban garden
Leave behind the city hustle and bustle, and step peacefully into The Shire, right through your back door. If you love Middle-Earth as much as Sam loves potatoes, the unique garden room in this East Bristol house will have you moving in faster than one of Legolas’s arrows.
Let this house inspire you to put something you truly love in your home. If you love it, so will someone else. A unique feature might just be the very thing that’ll help it sell. This home, for example, is ideal for fans of Lord of The Rings.
There is a delightful wooden entertaining space called the ‘Hobbit Hole’, just outside the back door!
Surrounded by mature trees and shrubs, you’ll enjoy quiet mornings nestled comfortably in the Hobbit Hole. Just imagine being snuggled under a blanket with tea and a book, listening to the birds sing. In the evenings, you’ll light the fire pit right in the centre of the cosy wooden structure and share glasses of red wine with friends.
Even if you don’t know your Gandalf from your Gimli, there is so much to love about this Victorian semi-detached house. It has been beautifully renovated, room-by-room. There is a tasteful, neutral colour palette throughout. The cohesion gives a deep sense of relaxation and peace.
It’s so easy to imagine living here. With three large bedrooms, a dreamy bathroom, and stylish living room with a log burner, you really couldn’t wish for more.
If you work from home there’s a bespoke study, neatly tucked away to allow you to have meetings without distractions. When you do have to go into the office, you have a garage for your car, and there are excellent transport links moments from your doorstep.
When showing this unique home, DW Smith & Co agents prioritised buyers who wanted a turn-key property, worked from home, and wanted a large garden. They highlighted the fantastic location in Kingswood, and the ultimate convenience of having a garage for storage and parking.
The current owners told us:
“We love so much about the house. We’re really going to miss the excellent location and spending long summer evenings enjoying the garden with the bifold doors open”.
A forever home, with a walk-in wardrobe of your dreams
This house really does offer the best of both worlds. A large, modern home, with every convenience, right in the middle of a charming little hamlet. Bridgeyate is rural, green, and peaceful, with a strong community spirit.
What makes something a forever home? Everyone will have a different answer, but there will be a few things in common. There needs to be space for the whole family, and with five bedrooms, this house ticks the box. A forever home must be practical, and this one has a garage, a large driveway, and three and a half bathrooms.
A house can’t become a forever home unless you’re in love with it. The stunning brick façade is certainly enough to get your heart beating, but it’s the upstairs layout which will take you from a crush to infatuation. The current owners have elegantly and intentionally renovated this home to maximise the space and amenities. They’ve created a walk-in wardrobe which would sweep any fashionlover off their feet. You’ll never argue over hanging space ever again, and there’s plenty of space for summer dresses, winter coats, and even your trainer collection.
If clothes aren’t your thing, fear not. The rest of the house will still take your breath away. Downstairs, the extended kitchen, dining, and living room is expansive. The owners have paid careful attention to the windows, with a range of large Velux skylights and bespoke floorto-ceiling bi-fold doors in the kitchen. This space is overflowing with light, and it’s a joy to sip a coffee here, and relax.
DW Smith & Co agents made extra effort to show this house to buyers looking for a modern family home they could move straight into. Our agents drew attention to the excellent countryside location but also the nearby retail facilities at Longwell Green.
The owners told us:
“We love having a bit of the countryside in the heart of a vibrant area. The hedgerows surrounding the garden are home to birds and we always hear them sing while relaxing with a drink and snacks in the garden. When supplies run short, we can restock with a short walk to M&S. We feel so lucky to live here”.
A characterful farmhouse style home, moments from M&S
Who says you can’t have everything you want? Because this house proves you can. The most convenient retail park only minutes’ walk from your front door, while surrounded by green, beautiful, countryside.
Down a quaint, leafy lane, behind a mossy stone wall with a little wooden gate is a semi-detached house. The front garden is full of flowers in the summer, and the house is painted a delicate primrose yellow. Bigger than a cottage, and not actually a farmhouse, this charming home is like something from a storybook.
Once you open the front door, the homely features are everywhere. There are beams on the low ceilings, there are exposed stone walls, and there are multiple fireplaces. The original floorboards are polished, and the windows are set into thick walls with wide windowsills.
An atmosphere of comfy, cosiness welcomes you in. You’ll be imagining drinking hot chocolate in front of a Christmas tree and toasting your feet by the log burner in no time.
With four large bedrooms, this is certainly not a small property. The living room is really three rooms opened into one, with large windows at either end. The higgledy piggledy layout of this delightful house just adds to its charm. The fully fitted Shaker-style kitchen is big enough for a dining table. Positioned right in front of one of the three large windows is the traditional Belfast sink overlooking the tranquil garden. In this kitchen, even washing up would be fun.
Amazingly, this picturesque property isn’t nestled in the Cotswolds, but it is just an 8-minute walk from an impressive range of local amenities. Costa coffee, Boots, Marks and Spencer, a leisure centre, a cinema, and various restaurants are all moments away.
DW Smith & Co agents focused on buyers who were looking for the magic of East Bristol; the semi-rural lifestyle with no compromises to convenience. It’s no wonder why all the DW Smith & Co agents are passionate about this part of the city –and so are our buyers!
A multi-award-winning sustainable home
Hanham Hall is one of the most successful eco-friendly developments in the UK. In 2014 it won the Best Sustainable Development in Britain in the What House? Awards.
HTA architects carefully balanced the needs of the residents, the original Grade II listed building on site, and the natural environment.
This stunning three bedroom home is unique to the Hanham Hall development in East Bristol. The flow of light and space in the house has been creatively designed to maximise open plan family living. From the front door, there’s a line of sight straight through the kitchen and into the leafy back garden. The house instantly feels light, inviting, and unmistakably cool.
The kitchen is large and stylish. You could easily host cheese and wine evenings with friends or joyful children’s birthday parties
in the open space. Under the sleek white granite worktops are ice blue Magnet units. The combination of drawers and cupboards gives plenty of storage and the range of energy efficient appliances will save money.
Perhaps unexpectedly, upstairs you’ll find the dual aspect living room. Again, the modern, stylish space is incredibly cool.
The designer wall lights, the floor-to-ceiling metal windows, the double hight vaulted ceiling – it’s like you’re in a high-end loft apartment. Off the huge living room is a balcony overlooking the communal gardens and the scenic Hanham Hills.
In the private garden, the owners have installed a generous garden room. It’s currently a flexible seating space but it would be perfect for a desk to work from home. This is a real peak of the property, and the owners told us they’d really miss it. “The garden room is so convenient. Since the garden is south-facing we spend so much time in it. We’ll also miss the community spirit from our great neighbours”.
Our agents were delighted to sell this impressive property. We strategically prioritised viewings with people who cared about sustainable living and stylish design. The Hanham Hall properties are built from low-waste SIP panels, and have eco-friendly insulation, sound proofing and solar panels. There is also a Mechanical Heat Recovery Unit (MHRU), rainwater harvesting, and a water butt to recycle rainwater. The house has an EV charging point next to the two parking spaces. All of this makes this house efficient and cheap to run, and a dream home for environmentally conscious Bristolians.
The owners told us:
“The garden room is so convenient. Since the garden is south-facing we spend so much time in it. We’ll also miss the community spirit from our great neighbours”.
Neighbourhood Tour: St George
DW Smith & Co agents are experts in all the East Bristol neighbourhoods. Each area has its own strong personality, different styles of architecture, and unique amenities. Perhaps you already know St George inside out and have your favourite places to eat and shop. But, if you’re new to this vibrant district, let us show you around.
History
St George was a mining area from the early 1800s until 1904. As mining was phased out, the Victorians transformed St George into the popular residential area as it appears today. As wealthy Victorians invested in the area, they built churches, schools, pubs, and shops.
Architecture
St George is an interesting mix of properties. There are many traditional Victorian terraces, with classic double bay windows, and dreamy period features. You’ll also find lots of flats above the shops which line Church Road, Clouds Hill Road, and Summerhill Road. There are some striking modern developments in the neighbourhood, such as The Boot Factory and Lacie Court.
Places to socialise, eat, and drink
Residents of St George are spoiled for places to grab a bite or enjoy a coffee. Our favourites are:
• The Orchard Café
A great spot to grab brunch on the weekends and to pop in for a midweek morning latte and a pastry.
The welcoming café is in a converted church and full of twinkling fairy lights. Look out for their open mic nights too!
• The Lock Up
The best roast in Bristol! This lovely little restaurant is an absolute delight. The owners focus on using the best ingredients and they change the menu regularly. Check out their happy hour cocktails, and make sure you reserve a table. The Lock Up gets busy!
• The Red Church
This is a real treat on Church Road.
Delicious pizzas and generous sides are served every day from 12 alongside great wines and local beers. On weekends, there are DJ sets and parties.
Transport and infrastructure
• Getting around
St George has excellent transport links with regular buses directly into the city centre, and the M32 motorway close by. The nearest train station is Lawrence Hill, which is further into Redfield, but closer than Temple Meads.
• Schools There are a number of good schools in the area including St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School and Summerhill Academy. There are three nearby secondary schools, City Academy, Bristol Brunel Academy, and John Cabot Academy.
• Medical Fireclay Health Medical Centre serves the St George area, and there are two pharmacies. The local dentist is Bupa St George.
• Supermarkets
Aldi is popular, which is near St George Park, and there is a Co-op further up Church Road. Additionally, there is a Tesco Express on Two Mile Hill.
• Library
The library is a great community space which is open every day.
Independent businesses
St George has many independent businesses, including boutique shops, hair salons, barbers, a deli, and takeaways.
Green
spaces
Those wealthy Victorians really put St George on the map with the beautiful St George Park. It has a duck lake, tennis courts, and a skate park. Nearby is Trooper’s Hill nature reserve with incredible views over the city, and a hint to the local mining history with the large chimney still standing.
Neighbourhood Tour: Kingswood
For over 25 years DW Smith & Co have served residents in East Bristol, and over the years we have become experts in each suburb. Our agents all have our favourites, but every part of East Bristol has treasures to be found. Kingwood has so many amenities and is one of the most up-and-coming neighbourhoods in Bristol. Let us take you on a tour of this delightful part of East Bristol.
History
For a small suburb on the outskirts of Bristol, Kingswood’s history is well recorded. It was called “King’s Wood” as far back as the Saxon times, when the area was a forest frequently used by royals for hunting and sport. For hundreds of years, it was an ancient woodland and was known as “Kingswood Chase”. It remained rural until the mid-1700s as the industrial revolution began. Kingswood became famous for coal mining throughout the Victorian era and many homes were built to house the colliers and their families. Gradually, the area became more and more urban. If you’re a history-buff, pay a visit to The Kingswood Heritage Museum to find out more about this fascinating neighbourhood.
Architecture
The housing in Kingswood represents its interesting and varied past. There are a small handful of buildings from the 1700s, lots of Victorian terraces, and plenty of solidly-built, semi-detached 1930s homes.
Places to socialise, eat, and drink
Residents of Kingswood have a good choice of places to meet friends and socialise in the area. There are lots of pubs in Kingswood, and some chain options like Greggs, Subway, and Costa.
• Boswells
Boswells is a small chain of cafes, and each one feels welcoming, cosy, and local. There’s a full café drinks menu, lots of cake and sandwich options, and choices for kids too.
• The Lyons Den Micropub
Unlike any pub in Kingswood, The Lyons Den is all about interesting beers from small-batch breweries. The décor is straightforward and unpretentious. There are board games to enjoy, and dogs are welcome. What more could you want for a quiet pint?
• La Passione
This restaurant has been a staple on Kingswood high street for almost
20 years. Authentic Italian food, served by friendly staff, for both takeaway and dining in. Judging by the hundreds and hundreds of good reviews on Google, booking is advised!
Transport and infrastructure
• Getting around Kingswood is not served by its own train station unfortunately, but there are buses to the city’s train stations. There are many bus routes to Lawrence Hill, Parkway, and Temple Meads. The regular buses will also take you directly to Bristol city centre, to Cribbs Causeway, and to UWE. The A4174 ring road connects residents to the M4 quickly. Kingswood has excellent cycle paths into Bristol itself and into the surrounding countryside.
• Schools
There are plenty of schools in Kingswood. Soundwell Academy is a well-attended secondary school. There are many primary schools, including St Stephens Church Of England Juniors, Park Primary, Courtney Primary School, and Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Primary. Additionally, there is an SEN school called New Horizons Learning Centre.
• Medical
There are two doctors’ surgeries in Kingswood: Orchard Medical Centre, and Lodgeside Surgery. There are a number of dentists, opticians, and pharmacies too.
• Supermarkets
Kingswood is very well served with big stores. There’s Sainsbury’s, Lidl, and Iceland for food shopping. Kings Chase Shopping Centre has many options, including a Boots, B&M, and WHSmith’s.
• Library
Kingswood Library is open four days a week and is right opposite Kingswood Park.
Independent businesses
Kingswood has many small and independent businesses. Many are found in the Indoor Market which is bustling with local traders, such as Yarn & Yardage, Kingswood Pets, and Fred & Alf’s Vinyl Records. You’ll also find PV Turners Greengrocers and Kingswood Florist in Kings Chase.
Green spaces
As you would expect in a vibrant family suburb, there are plenty of green spaces and parks in Kingswood. The largest is Kingswood Park which has a playground, tennis courts, and bowling green. There’s also Southey Park and Lees Hill Playing fields, ideal for family picnics, dog walks, and finally doing your 5k PB. Kingswood is very lucky to have two allotments, Orchard Road and Waters Road.
Seller Guidance: Maximise your home’s curb appeal and get the sale fast
A prospective buyer will decide if they want your house within 30 seconds.
It’s an instinctive gut feeling, and it’s powerful. This means the curb appeal of your home is essential. As the potential buyer is approaching your home, they’re deciding if they want to buy with every step they take.
Here’s the expert advice from our agents to help you make the best first impression.
Quick tasks
1 Clean the windows
By making sure your windows are gleaming, potential buyers will see you take care of little details. Windows gradually get grubby due to rain, pollution, and pollen. Unclean windows can make a house look a little unloved. Giving them a freshen up will give a great first impression, and it’ll make your rooms feel lighter and brighter. Of course, you could hire a local window cleaner if you don’t want to tackle this job yourself!
2 Sweep and power wash
Put an hour or two aside to give the path leading to your front door, your doorstep, and your driveway (if you
have one) a thorough clean. Pull out any stray weeds, sweep any gravel back into place, and collect any stray leaves. Go the extra mile to power wash everything. A well-maintained property is a neat property, after all.
3 Get the details right
Have a look at the signage on your home. You might have a house name or a number on your front door or gate. Ensure it is clearly visible from the street so the potential buyer can be confident they’re looking at the right house. The signage might need to be cleaned, repositioned, or repainted. Perhaps invest in new signage to freshen up your home’s look.
4 Proudly display the “for sale” sign
Make sure the DW Smith & Co “for sale” sign is well-placed to catch the attention of passers-by. It should be securely attached so it doesn’t fall or lean. Have a look at the sign from a distance to ensure there are no pesky branches in the way, concealing the contact details. If you have any problem with your DW Smith & Co sign, we’ll swiftly replace it for you. Just get in touch!
A little more effort
1 A lick of paint
Assess the façade of your house to find any faded or flaking paint. Look specifically at your front door, gate, fences, any railings, and the garage door. Paint is an excellent material, but over time, it will peel or crumble. This can then lead to more problems, like rust, mildew, wood rot, and damp. Grab some wire wool and remove any old paint. Clean the surface and treat it with rust treatment or wood preserver if needed. Finally, add 2-3 fresh coats of paint.
2 Get green fingered
If you’re lucky enough to have a front garden, spend a weekend making it look as impressive as you can. A messy garden is very off-putting. Focus on mowing the grass, trimming the path edges, and cut down any over-hanging bushes obstructing the windows. Once your front garden is tidy, it’s time to add some plants! Choose some blooms in colours which match your front door to create cohesion and put them in beds or pots. Perhaps install hanging baskets too.
Make an investment
1 Upgrade the external lighting
This is especially important if you are selling your home in the autumn or winter when the daylight is a little gloomier. Looking at the front of your house, see where you could install or upgrade some external lighting. If you have a Victorian property, consider traditional light fittings to be in keeping with the architecture. Alternatively, there are some chic uplighters which will look excellent on a modern façade. Once you’ve chosen your new lights, hire an electrician to install them safely.
2 Check for cracks
If you have a brick or stone façade, take some time to closely look at the pointing. Broken mortar can cause cracks and encourage damp, which is off- putting to buyers. This is an easy job, but it is time consuming. Scrape out any crumbling mortar and replace it with fresh mortar. If your property is rendered, unsightly cracks can appear and can really let your home down. Consult with a renderer to arrange repairs.
3 Build (or buy) some storage
In Bristol, most homes have four types of rubbish bin. There’s the wheely bin, food waste, recycling, and garden waste. Having these bins lying around in the front of your house can be distracting and messy. If you feel confident, build a bespoke bin storage unit to keep the bins organised and attractively hidden. If DIY storage is not your thing, simply buy one!
4 Replace the guttering and facias
This is another example of something which is easily overlooked but has a huge impact. Old guttering can leak, look mouldy, and can cause damp in the home. Facias can look very unclean with moss, lichen, or algae. It’s essential property maintenance to keep the guttering and facias in good order. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to do this yourself safely, due to the height you’ll need to climb on the ladder. Speak to local gutter cleaner or local roofer to help you out.
By following these tips you’ll have an impressive and attractive home, bursting with curb appeal. Not sure what to focus on? Speak to your agent, we’re here to help and advise.
Seller Guidance: How to choose a conveyancer or a solicitor
Buying a home is a wonderful and exciting experience, but it can also be stressful. The conveyancer or solicitor is extremely important in the buying and selling process. They’ll keep the sale proceeding quickly and everything on track.
As local experts, DW Smith & Co has many contacts for reliable, efficient conveyancers. Check out our tips below on how to choose the best one for you.
1 Know the difference between conveyancer and solicitor
These job titles are often used interchangeably, but they are different. You can work with either a conveyancer or a solicitor, but they are trained and qualified in different parts of property law.
A conveyancer is a specialist but is not able to resolve complex legal issues. Conveyancers are still highly qualified. They must pass the Level 5 and Level 6 Diploma in Conveyancing Law and Practice. They also complete 1,200 hours of practical training. Conveyancers are usually cheaper than a solicitor.
A solicitor is a qualified lawyer who has completed a law degree. They must be registered with The Law Society to practice in the UK. They are more expensive to hire than a conveyancer, but they are able to process challenging legal issues should they arise. These issues are rare but can include covenants, conflicts over unregistered land, encumbrances, overage clauses, positive/negative easements, and historic boundary clarification.
2 Choose a conveyancer or solicitor in Bristol
At DW Smith & Co, we would always recommend using a conveyancer or solicitor with staffed offices in Bristol. During the sales process there are many documents which must be printed, signed, and posted. Often scanned and emailed documents are not acceptable, it must be the physical copies which are exchanged. By having a conveyancer or solicitor local to you, it’s much easier to drop the documents off directly to the office, rather than depending on the post.
3 Start researching early
Instructing a conveyancer or a solicitor can often be a rushed decision, usually once an offer is accepted. At the start of the home-buying process get researching. Find the best reviewed conveyancers and property solicitors in Bristol and enquire about their process, fees, and availability.
4 Ask around for recommendations
Word of mouth is a great way to find a reliable Bristol conveyancer or solicitor. Who in your family, at work, and friend group have purchased a property in the last year or so? Ask those people which company they used and if they’d recommend the company. At DW Smith & Co we have connections with reliable local conveyancers and solicitors, and we are happy to advise you on our experience with various experts in Bristol.
5 Budget in advance
The fees related to conveyancing can sometimes come as a shock to buyers. Costs can range from £500 to £3000, and you are liable to pay for both selling your house and buying the new one. Additionally, there are charges related to property searches, mining reports, HM Registry fees, drainage and water reports, local authority reports, and many more. There may also be instances where you need to pay for chancel liability insurance, indemnity policies, and various other insurances.
Depending on the reason for the fees, they are often broken down into payments called ‘disbursements’. These are usually paid for by the conveyancer/solicitor, and you will repay the costs in the final invoice.
Remember, if any of this feels overwhelming or confusing, DW Smith & Co are here to help. We are extremely experienced with all stages of property purchases and we’re in your corner.
Seller Guidance: The pros and cons of downsizing
There are so many reasons to downsize, but it doesn’t mean it’s an easy decision. If you’ve lived in your current home for a long time, it’s hard to imagine a new life in a different place. When you’re struggling to make a decision, it’s a good idea to consult some experts. Pop in and visit us at DW Smith & Co and we’ll be happy to discuss all your options.
Let’s start with the positive reasons to downsize, and why it might be the best idea for you.
1 A fresh start
A wonderful part of moving house is having a fresh start. A new location means a new lifestyle, and shaking things up is usually positive. Leaving behind things which were not working for you and embracing the future is a wonderful experience.
2 Releasing equity
Often, people take out a mortgage with long repayment terms, usually over 20 years. As you come towards the end of these terms, the value your home will have increased. By downsizing you have option to pay off your mortgage and live mortgage free.
3 Cheaper bills
It’s simple, but impactful. A larger home means more, and often larger, rooms. By downsizing to a smaller home, you can significantly reduce your monthly power and water bills. Newer homes will also have great insulation, double glazing, and low energy appliances.
4 Less maintenance
Sometimes, doing DIY and property maintenance feels like a satisfying way to spend a weekend. After years of looking after your home, this might feel like a chore. A smaller, perhaps more modern, home, will mean more time for enjoying weekends and free time.
5 A fun location
Downsizing might allow you to move closer to the things which bring you joy. Whether that’s being nearer to music venues or closer to the golf club, the gym, restaurants, or nightlife. Whatever your hobbies, there’s nothing stopping you living around the corner!
6 Closer to loved-ones
When circumstances change, such having a new baby in the family, or perhaps your parents getting older, it’s understandable you want to be nearby.
By downsizing, you’ll have more options to find somewhere in your ideal location.
7 Make life easy
As life changes, so do our needs. Instead of renovating your current home to install features like a driveway, step-free access, a walk-in shower, or non-slip flooring, simply move to a home where the things you need are already there for you.
With any home move, there’s a lot to consider, and there are some possible downsides to downsizing.
1 Less space
While having a smaller home means less maintenance, cheaper bills, and more money, it also literally means having less space. Practically speaking, you won’t have as much room for your belongings and furniture. You might have to make some difficult decisions about selling or storing your items. Additionally, you might not have space to host family or spare rooms for guests to stay. If you love to host and frequently have friends and family to stay with you, it’s important to weigh up how this will work for you before downsizing.
2 Emotional ties
Take time to consider how you’ll feel leaving your old home behind. As wonderful as a fresh start in a new location is, downsizing can be emotional. Moving away from a home which you have carefully renovated, or where you have raised your family can be upsetting. Likewise, selling belongings or furniture can be difficult to navigate.
You will make happy memories in your new home but it’s a good idea to preserve memories you have made and to give yourself time to process the feelings.
3 Moving costs
Ultimately, saving money is a huge benefit of downsizing your house. You’ll be able to release equity and perhaps live mortgage free. You’ll have cheaper energy bills and save money on transport costs if you’re in your ideal location. But, there are fees in selling your home, and it’s important to know this upfront. In no particular order, you’ll need to pay for removal services, a conveyancer, any storage fees for furniture and belongings, surveys for your new home, estate agent fees, and stamp duty.
If you’re still not sure of the best move for you, take some time to research the areas you’d like to live in and the types of home you’d feel excited to live in. Remember to rely on your local agents for help and advice.
Knockout Kitchens: The heart of the home
There’s a reason kitchens sell houses. Dinner parties go on late into the evening, Christmas lunches are prepped while you wear a paper crown, and your baby takes their first steps across the tiles. Lots of our special memories happen in the kitchen.
Here are five of the best kitchens in homes the DW Smith & Co team have sold recently to inspire and delight.
A kitchen doesn’t need to be large to be a winner. Though this kitchen is in a cottage, it’s not held back by its size. The large picture window allows light to pour in, making the space feel bright and open. The current owners have included lots of eye-level storage to make cooking a breeze.
The neutral colour palette makes the most of the natural light and the tiles create a cohesive and modern feel. There is a thoughtful nod to the cottage’s historic features with the traditional-style drawer and cupboard handles.
This is an incredible kitchen. Not just because it’s large, but because it’s brilliantly designed. There are integrated appliances perfectly concealed behind glossy doors, and a useful pantry for kitchen gadgets. The breakfast bar is ideal for a quick breakfast before work and for sipping wine with friends on
a Saturday evening. The classic colour combination and the statement lighting is tasteful and timeless. A clever mix of materials has been used in this space; natural wood, stone, and glass, which transcend trends.
This modern kitchen is the heart of a sustainable family home, and it’s indisputably cool. The crisp white granite worktops and ice blue cabinets are fresh and interesting, and they’re also extremely functional. Each appliance is eco-friendly, meaning they don’t just look sleek and
modern, but they also save money. This kitchen is extremely versatile. It has large windows, high ceilings, and an open plan dining room. It is a perfect room for legendary parties, where friends mingle and dance into the early hours.
Every detail of this open plan kitchen/diner has been carefully and deliberately chosen. The vaulted ceiling in the extended part of the dining room has two large Velux windows, allowing natural light to lift the space. The overall design is extremely cohesive.
The current owners have really made the most of this traditional Victorian terrace kitchen. By extending the kitchen they have maximised the available space and created an extremely useable U-shaped layout. This is a chef’s dream. The generous worktop space allows for
preparing food, cooking it, and serving all at the same time. There are seamless spotlights illuminating the worktop to make julienning and dicing so easy. The clever use of open shelving means equipment and ingredients are always at hand.
The wooden floor ties in with the wooden worktop. The pale grey Shaker kitchen cabinets complements the gentle cream walls. It is a tasteful, sophisticated kitchen which feels mature and modern.
Gorgeous Gardens: a breath of fresh air, close to the city
This is the ideal low maintenance family garden. It’s large enough to play football, or set up a trampoline, but it’s also enclosed and safe. The current owners have created a dedicated space for dining outside, and they’ve incorporated a fourseater hot tub. This might just be the ultimate garden for parties! While the garden doesn’t have any mature trees or bushes, it does allow the new owner to design their own little oasis. There’s room for a gazebo with climbing vines, flower beds, and even a water feature.
Just one of the reasons people love East Bristol is because of the green space. There are rolling green hills, nature reserves, woodlands, and a meandering river to stroll along.
East Bristol is the gateway to the Cotswolds, while also having all the convenience of the city close by. By being a little outside of the centre of Bristol, residents of East Bristol are spoiled with generous back gardens, front gardens, and driveways.
Here’s a snapshot of special gardens belonging to homes DW Smith & Co have sold recently.
The wide, flat lawn in this garden will be the scene for water fights in the summer and building snowmen in the winter. Family meals can be enjoyed together on the large patio area, just in front of the French doors. All of this is surrounded by mature trees of different varieties, established bushes and shrubs, and lots of flower beds. There’s plenty to keep a new gardener busy in this large back garden, and there’s plenty for a confident gardener to add, like a greenhouse or a vegetable plot.
Sycamore Close
This home has a large brick driveway and lawn at the front of the house, which is simple and low maintenance. If the new owner is a keen gardener, there’s a lot of opportunity to add flower beds, hanging baskets, and some small plants for privacy. In the back garden, the current owners
have lovingly nurtured the established borders which are full of bushes and mature hedges. There’s a pretty little gazebo tucked into the corner which is a wonderful spot for a morning cup of tea listening to the birds sing.
This garden is beautifully landscaped to a professional standard. It would be best suited to an extremely experienced gardener, or a team of gardeners! Over two acres, this incredible space has an established pond, a winding brook, mature trees, formal lawns, and multiple patio areas. The garden seems to unfold itself
was you wander through, with each corner revealing a new idyllic scene. Despite being only 3 miles away, the Bristol city centre feels like a different world. The new owners will have their own wildlife haven right on their doorstep with badgers, foxes, rabbits, deer, and ducks, all making themselves at home.
Not all estate agents are the same
DW Smith & Co have the experience of selling and letting literally thousands of homes in East Bristol. We really have seen it all. Throughout market dips, and property booms, we’ve been there. We’ve negotiated offers, managed chains, solved problems, found forever homes, and celebrated with our loyal customers.
Our job isn’t just about buying, selling, and renting your property. It is about supporting you at every stage, right up until you move in. As you make one of the biggest decisions of your life, you deserve consistent and transparent communication. Often this is where other estate agents let their clients down. But not us. Keeping in touch with you is our biggest priority.
The DW Smith & Co team know and love East Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
We all live locally, and we are always here to answer your questions – from bus routes, to school catchments, to where to get the best pint in the area.
We’re proud to be an independent, award-winning family run business. We’re also proud to be trusted by sellers and buyers across Bristol and South Gloucestershire
Specialising in sales, lettings, and property management in:
• Barrs Court
• Bitton
• Bradley Stoke
• Bridgeyate
• Cadbury Heath
• Downend
• Easton
• Emersons Green
• Fishponds
• Frenchay
• Hanham
• Kingswood
• Longwell Green
• North Common
• Oldland Common
• Pucklechurch
• Redland
• Siston
• St George
• Stockwood
• Warmley
• Whitehall
Emily Bywater
“Karen and her team kept me fully informed of what was happening in the chain and went over and above to try to keep the chain on track when there were complications.”
Nicky Rogers
“I’ve sold quite a few houses over the years and my experience at DW Smith & Co was second to none. They are a friendly team of local experts that deliver results.”
Dan Quaye
“As a first-time buyer, DW Smith & Co were amazing. From the first viewing to handing over the keys. They even helped me out with a couple of queries after the purchase completed. I highly recommend this estate agents!”
Royston Osborne
“David and staff made the sale of our house fast and stress-free. The staff kept us updated at all times on the progress of the sale and answered any questions we had whilst the sale was going through.”
Mei Lee Ng
“I am very satisfied with my experience with DW Smith & Co. Multiple members of the team responded to me in a very efficient manner and followed up my requests with the vendor quickly. Their help sped up the transaction which was smoothly completed within 11 weeks.”
Jane Greenway
“David came to see us personally and promised he would do his best to help us move to our dream house – and he did exactly that! Throughout the process the whole team were a delight!”
Our Services Sales
• Realistic valuations
• Thorough assessment of your property
• Consistent support from valuation to completion
• Straightforward and regular communication
• Digital and print marketing, including property descriptions and high-quality photography
• 360 video tours included
• Floor plan technology
• Energy performance certificates
• Regular posts to social media channels
• Trusted industry contacts, including financial advisors, mortgage brokers, and conveyancers
• Extensive email lists of registered buyers Lettings
• Accurate rental valuations
• Pre-qualifying prospective tenants
• Straightforward and regular communication
• Marketing of your property using the latest and best photography and video technology
• Thorough referencing
• Detailed inventories
• Full management packages available
• Collecting rents and deposits
• Arranging repairs and maintenance
The Curious Play Café, Hanham: Fun for kids, fun for parents!
The Curious Play Café is Hanham’s only play café, and it’s incredibly popular. It’s a winning combination of affordable, delicious food in a child-centred space. Parents can chat, children can play, and everyone has fun.
Co-founders Alis Stevens and Sara Bryant have created a truly bright spot on Hanham high street. Alis is a qualified EYFS teacher, and Sara was a community project manager in her previous career.
They really have thought of everything in this innovative café.
Mums, dads, and caregivers relax on sofas with a flat white or a chai latte, and a pastry or toastie. As they chat with each other their little ones play. Every book and toy has been chosen to be engaging and fun, but also educational. Sara says, “we have a mixture of open ended and roleplay resources. They help our visitors to make sense of the world around them and to promote their communication skills”.
The Curious Play Café is cosy and colourful, but it is not overstimulating. Alis and Sara have carefully chosen a neutral palette for the walls and for the resources to create an environment where everyone can feel welcome.
The Curious Play Cafe is also available to hire. Parents can host their children’s birthday parties with a choice of four party packages, and businesses can run their own child-centred sessions. Hiring rates start at just £100, including exclusive use of the space and resources.
Since opening its doors in September 2023, The Curious Play Café has become a beloved resource in Hanham. Co-founder Alis says: “it has been so wonderful meeting and getting to know so many fantastic families. We’ve worked hard to create a café which both children and their caregivers will love. It’s a space Sara and I would love to use with our own families!”.
The Curious Play Café is a warm, welcoming asset on Hanham high street, and is well worth a visit soon.
Every day there are play sessions, and there are weekly groups including messy play, music sessions, story sessions, sensory groups, and craft activities. Alis and Sara have also provided for parents and caregivers. There are expert-led sessions including baby massage, first aid, child psychotherapy, and book club. All sessions can be easily booked through The Curious Play Café website.
Two regular visitors to The Curious Play Café are Amy, and her daughter Matilda. Amy said, “we’re so, so glad to have an indoor, toddler-centric play resource like this in Hanham. It’s fantastic here!”.
The Jolly Sailor, Hanham: A charming local pub with big ambitions
Right in the centre of Hanham high street is The Jolly Sailor, a popular independent pub. You won’t find many jolly sailors in Hanham, but you’ll find plenty of jolly locals!
Bristol is known for its indie businesses and the great hospitality scene. Hanham is no different. As small as the neighbourhood might be, its high street is full of beloved local businesses, and the top of the list is The Jolly Sailor.
This local pub has everything you’d want in your favourite pub, and more.
The Jolly Sailor is open every day from 9am serving a full brunch menu, including pancakes, granola, full-English breakfasts, and breakfast baps. From 12, the lunch and dinner menus are available (and the bar is open!). You’ll get to choose from delicious pub classics, burgers, light bites, main dishes, and irresistible deserts. Booking is essential on Sundays as The Jolly Sailor gets busy with families enjoying a proper Sunday roast. There are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy eating together.
James Savage, the owner of The Jolly Sailor, was delighted to expand into Hanham. “Hanham is a changing area. More people are moving away from the city centre and into close-knit communities. This pub has always been a community hub, and we will make sure it continues to be”.
The large Victorian pub was fully refurbished by Mr Savage when he took it on. He owns it alongside five other Bristol venues through his company – Zazu’s Pubs. Well-known across the city, Zazu’s Pubs all have beautiful décor, delicious food, and locally-brewed beers and ciders.
Hanham is now on the list alongside Easton, which has The Greenbank, Upper Knowle which has The Knowle, Clifton which has The Alma Tavern, and Henleaze which has The Westbury Park and The Eastfield.
In the future, the pub will host comedy nights and live music in the large function room upstairs. It’s clear The Jolly Sailor is going to be a highlight of Hanham high street for many, many years to come.
Your local, award-winning estate agents
DW Smith & Co have been presented with a Gold award in the Best Estate Agents Guide 2025, and we are immensely proud!
What is the award
EA Masters runs the UK’s biggest estate agency conference, exhibition, and award programme. Each year EA Masters assesses 99.6% of estate agents in the UK to find the most successful agencies. In the Best Estate Agents Guide, DW Smith & Co has been granted a Gold Award for Sales!
We have been independently ranked as exceptional. Our results put us in the top 8% of estate agents in the country. Considering these are national awards, we are delighted to be recognised at this level.
How it’s awarded
EA Masters partners with the leading UK property data agency TwentyEA. They examine millions of individual property transactions over a 6-month period. The estate agent who is responsible for the transaction is scored against strict criteria.
Agents which score well:
• Demonstrate they have experience of selling more properties compared with their competition. Market share
• Have more exchange triggers and low levels of withdrawals and fall-throughs compared with other agents in their area. Sales
• Sell properties more quickly than others in their area. Timescale
• Sell more properties for the asking price and have a lower percentage of price reductions compared to other agents in their area. Price
• Have a higher number of positive reviews related to customer service and customer satisfaction. Reviews
Why we won
This years Best Estate Agent Guide award winners are significantly better than the rest of the sector and the gap is growing.
They…
• Achieve on average 98.1% of the initial asking price, which is 1.4% more that non-award winners
• Obtain for the vendor an average of £5,548 more when selling their property
• Agree a sale on a property 138% faster than non-award winners
• Are 51% more likely to sell a property than non-award winners.
• Have an average market share of sales of 11.1% versus non-award winners at 4.3%
• Have average Google review scores of 4.1/5 versus non-award winners of 3.4/5.
A proud moment
Winning this award was a wonderful acknowledgement of our hard work and our impact in the East Bristol property market. It’s a tribute to our unwavering values of providing excellent service and selling homes with integrity. We were incredibly proud to pick up our award in person at The Best Estate Agent Guide Awards in London.
You’ll see our award very proudly displayed in our front window on Hanham high street next time you stop by!
54 High St, Hanham, Bristol BS15 3DR 0117 9670 900 | enquiries@youridealhome.co.uk www.dwsmithandco.co.uk Sales & Lettings throughout
