Hot property march 2014

Your local property guide March2014 Don’t miss our fabulous interiors feature for bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, tiles, blinds, furniture, stoves etc.

The show home at Cornmill, Millisle Page 9

www.

Bangor Auctions.co.uk Have you been under the hammer yet?

Goods accepted for sale Friday & Monday 9.00am - 5pm. Collection service available

600 Lots Sold • Every Thursday 6pm It’s never been a better time to get that room/attic/garage cleared

1 Greenway Business Park, Conlig BT23 7SU • Tel. 028 9145 0494 • Visit our website www.bangorauctions.co.uk • Email: info@bangorauctions.co.uk

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hotproperty March2014

Welcome...

Inside

March 2014 The Cornmill idyllic setting

This is the season when we turn our thoughts towards sprucing up our gardens as well as our homes.

Page 8

Furnish your home for less

It’s official – Spring is here! A time when thoughts turn to cleaning and refreshing our homes...

With this in mind, this month’s Hot Propety and Cool Living is packed with ideas to revamp our living space, with everything from kitchens to bathrooms and where to go for all your soft furnishing needs.

We have a double helping this month from our interiors expert, Jillian Espey who reveals her top tips on how to achieve your spring cleaning goals. Jillian also gives us the low-down on what’s on trend for 2014.

The makers of ‘The house that 100k built’ are looking for home owners in County Down, who only have a shoe-string budget but are desperate to transform their homes, to take part in a new television series.

If you want to furnish your home for less, you can pop along to Bangor auctions on a Thursday evening to pick up household goods.

This month we met up with Gerry Holden-Downes and Grahame Hull who established the auction house in 1991 and learned about the amazing number of pre-adored items which pass through their doors every week.

This is the season when we turn our thoughts towards sprucing up our gardens as well as our homes, and Neil Porteous advises us how to tend to our shrubs this month.

Page 15

We chatted with Bangor estate agent, Victoria Pinkerton who tells us how establishing an estate agency with a difference has paid dividends, and how customer care is at the centre of everything Pinkerton Murray does.

Interesting interiors What’s on Trend for 2014

With the new Landlord Registration Scheme coming into effect last month, Geoff Thompson and Nicholas McCarey of Fetherston Clements let us know the facts behind the scheme.

Meanwhile, property specialist Trevor Burns of Belvoir Lettings gives us a guide to buying rental property at auction.

We visited Sea Haven Park, Groomsport to find out how this residential park home provides an alternative for those of us wanting to change our lifestyle and release equity on approaching retirement.

And the diggers have finally arrived at the former meeting house in Greyabbey, unearthing features such as an old sash window.

We hope there is plenty to give you ideas this month, so sit back with a cuppa, relax and enjoy.

Page 19

Editorial

Violet Brown 028 9181 3333 v.brown@ardschronicle.co.uk Advertising

June Mills 07967 512691 j.mills@spectatornewspapers.co.uk A County Down Spectator and Newtownards Chronicle Production

Shirley Tumelty also gives us advice on where to pick up vintage items, and how antique finds can express your personality.

GRANT ESTATE AGENTS - WE WANT YOUR PROPERTY!

WE WANT

R YPROOPU ERTY!

No up front fees and FREE EPC for all new listings before 30th April 2014

028 91 828 100

2 Mill Street, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 4LU

Properties are selling at a faster rate than at anytime during the last 6 years and we have buyers actively looking for properties in all areas of Newtownards and Ards Peninsula. Buyers know what they want and are specifically drawn to very well presented and realistically priced homes. They will often pay above the asking price for the right property. We have even had situations where properties were sold to buyers on our mailing list prior to being listed on the open market.

One independent property website (home.co.uk) lists Grant Estate Agents as having the shortest time for properties on the market of any agent in the BT23 area. This means that we are very successful at achieving full market value in the minimum time.

We match buyers to properties by asking appropriate questions and directing them to the properties which we think will best suit their needs, not necessarily the property which they first enquired about.

Sellers will appreciate our “No up front fees option” and our free Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) offer. Combined with our competitive commission rates we believe that we offer the complete package. Our drive and commitment to selling properties is second to none, so if you’re thinking of selling make Grant Estate Agents your first call - 028 91 828 100.

hotproperty March2014

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Vintage, Retro and Antique with Shirley Tumelty, Goldfish Antiques

You can buy antiques or second hand to get value for money, because you don’t want your house to be the same as every other house in the street, or even just nostalgia because your granny had it. Antique finds can express your personality the way modern shops goods can’t.

The internet may be changing people’s shopping habits, but at Greyabbey there are a large number of individual shops, with different owners each displaying different tastes. It is somewhere where it's possible to get the feel of the piece, size it up, and check the colour and patination, instead of collecting it in a flat pack cardboard box. I can’t think of anywhere else in Northern Ireland where there are so many antique shops in the one street.

Fairs also allow you to handle the goods before you buy. One good one which is coming up shortly is at the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle, on Sunday, March 15. It starts around 11am and finishes around 5pm and is a general antique fair with a little bit of everything from furniture, rugs, paintings, silver and smalls.

If you are a more hardy type the car boot season has kicked off. Mountstewart hold one with a good turn out of stalls on the first Saturday of each month, starting early in the morning.

There’s no doubt the price of antiques, like houses, have gone down. But there is some light at the end of

the tunnel for us dealers, with younger people turning to second hand goods and calling it ‘vintage’. It’s all good for the environment – and the pocket.

‘Frock Around the Clock’ which takes place at the Old Meeting House, Lisburn on Saturday, April 12 from 11am to 5pm is a vintage fair with a slightly different twist, with the emphasis on stitching and upcycling from vintage materials.

The whole idea of vintage and cup cake tea parties fits right in with vintage clothes, and at the moment I have seven beautiful 1950’s frocks. I say unusually because they are rather hard to find.

Continuing with this theme, there are many good dancing classes where you are encouraged to dress up, including ‘Dancing With Evie’ which offers classes on Tuesday evenings at 6pm in Ards Town Hall; the Winston hotel in Bangor on Wednesdays at 7 pm and Thursdays at 8pm in The Wildfowler in Greyabbey.

And if you are wondering how you are going to do a clear out when you move house, don’t forget antique shops have to buy too. Give me, Shirley Tumelty a ring on 078 69562458 or call into my shop ‘Goldfish Antiques’ in the old police station on Main Street, Greyabbey on a Saturday.

Hopefully this will be the first of many of my articles highlighting antiques around the province and helping you to make your house move fun!

An early settlers bonnet from Canada brought into my shop in Greyabbey last month

OOM D R D E 4 B ETACHE D SEMIHOMES

FROM50 9 , 9 4 1 £

NEW DETACHED EXHIBITION HOUSE OPEN SUNDAY 16TH & 23RD MARCH 2-4PM 2 FRANCES STREET, NEWTOWNARDS

028 9181 4144

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hotproperty March2014

‘When other estate agencies were closing, we worked extremely hard to offer our customers something more’

Establishing an estate agency with a difference has paid dividends for Victoria Pinkerton, with her business growing year on year since she established it on leaving university.

Pinkerton Murray is now entering into its ninth year in business, and Victoria believes its success is a tribute to the team she has around her, and their tenacity in wanting to succeed.

Victoria has always had a very keen interest in property and the property market and set up the agency in Bangor’s High Street after completing a Business Degree at the University of Ulster.

“If you are starting a business, you have to be passionate about it”, she advised. “I am from a business rather than a property background, and focus on customer care and how to look after people. I think that is why we are so different”.

Although it was started just before the property crash, when the market hit its lowest level in years, Pinkerton Murray has enjoyed growth year after year, despite fewer properties coming onto the market.

“When other estate agencies were closing, we worked extremely hard to offer our customers something more,” Victoria explained.

“People could see they were getting value for money with Pinkerton Murray, and at the same time getting an agency with personality.

“We offer sales, letting and property management, which are really three specialised areas. Property management extends into

block management, and we look after developments and do grants work with that. These are quite a lot of facets for a small company to cover, but I think we do it well,” she feels. “To grow year after year we have to be doing something right.”

Pinkerton Murray have won many awards including the Northern Ireland Estate Agency of the Year, and Northern Ireland Letting Agency of the year. Last year they were runner-up in the UK in the Sunday Times Property Management Company of the Year.

“In the past six months we have seen a lot of interest and activity on the property market. November and December would normally be quiet months, but we had a fantastic spike in November which carried through to January,” Victoria related. “We took the highest percentage of listings on in Bangor during that period.

“We are seeing more interest at the high end of the property market, which is good,” she said. “I think some of that has to be attributed to lenders who are growing in confidence.

“I think 2014 is going to be a fantastic year for us.

People are more confident about selling, and they are starting to move quicker when their property hits the market,” she predicted. “When a property is priced correctly, there is interest. For quite a while now there has been bidding activity on properties, and things are moving quicker”.

Violet Brown

hotproperty March2014

W W W. T E M P L E T O N R O B I N S O N . C O . U K

12 Kilbourne Park,

3 Burnside Park,

15 Church Road,

CARNALEA, BANGOR, BT19 1ES

Crawfordsburn, BT19 1JW

Helens Bay, BT19 1TP

• Deceptively spacious Chalet Bungalow • Extremely well presented throughout • 'L' shaped Lounge/Dining Room with direct access to Decked Terrace • Luxury high gloss Kitchen • Utility Room • 4 Bedrooms - two on each level

• Study • Luxury White Bathroom Suite and First Floor Shower Room • uPVC double glazed windows / Phoenix Gas heating • Attached Matching Garage / Driveway parking • Landscaped gardens, decked terrace etc • Popular and secluded cul-desac

• Attractive Detached Bungalow on mature corner site • 4 Well proportioned Bedrooms • L-shaped Lounge/Dining Room with feature stone fireplace • Modern Fitted Kitchen • Oil fired central heating / uPVC double glazing • Attached Twin Garage

• Peaceful and convenient location with Village shops close at hand and in close proximity to Belfast, Holywood & Bangor • Well tended gardens hosting a variety of shrubs & plant life, driveway and patio

• Attractive Detached Family Home enjoying excellent views of Golf Course and Belfast Lough • Excellent standard of decor throughout • Sitting Room, Dining Room and Snug • Modern Kitchen open plan to Dining Area excellent views • Separate Utility Room • Ground Floor Cloaks with low flush suite • 4 Well proportioned Bedrooms - Master with En Suite Shower Room • Modern Shower Room • Oil fired central heating / Double glazed windows • Double Garage, Separate Workshop and Basement Storage • Driveway with ample parking • Gardens in lawns, patio area etc Sought after location

Offers Around £249,950 Contact Holywood 028 9042 4747

Offers Around £240,000 Contact Holywood 028 9042 4747

Offers Around £395,000 Contact Holywood 028 9042 4747

11 The Brae,

77b Warren Road,

9 Merridale Drive,

Groomsport, BT19 6JG

Donaghadee, BT21 0PQ

Bangor, BT20 4UQ

• Stunning Town House on waters edge • Exceptional Specification Including Underfloor Heating, Central Wiring for Table Lamps, Porcelain Tiling, Solid Oak Wooden Flooring, Granite and Marble Work Surfaces • High Ceilinged Drawing Room with Stylish Hole in Wall Gas Fireplace - Sliding Doors to Timber Sun Deck • Exceptional Views Across

• Detached Home set on a Corner Site within a Popular & Convenient Location • Lounge with Cast Iron Fireplace and Gas Fire / Conservatory • Dining Area, Open Plan to Kitchen with Oak Units • 3 First Floor Bedrooms - 2 with Built-in Robes • Modern Bathroom with White Suite • Oil Fired Central Heating System / Double Glazing / UPVC Facia Boards • Detached Garage / Off-road Parking / Gardens to Front, Side & Rear

• • • • • • • • • •

Attractive Detached Bungalow on a corner site Lounge and Dining Room Fitted Kitchen Modern White Bathroom Suite Separate Cloaks with low flush suite 3 Well-proportioned Bedrooms uPVC double glazed windows, fascias etc Detached Garage / Ample driveway parking Gardens to front and side, patio to rear enjoying a sunny position Most convenient and sought after location

• •

• •

Donaghadee Sound to the Copeland Islands and Irish Sea Bespoke Designed Kitchen with Excellent Range of Baumatic Integrated Appliances 2 Double Bedrooms - Bedroom 1 with Stunning Sea Views, Balcony and Ensuite Bathroom & Bedroom 2 with Ensuite Bathroom & Walk-in Wardrobe Gas Fired Central Heating & Double Glazed Windows Designated Private Parking

Offers Around £179,950 Contact Holywood 028 9042 4747

Offers Around £275,000 Contact Bangor 028 9145 1166

Offers Around £169,950 Contact Bangor 028 9145 1166

19 Rock Hill,

2 Barn Hill,

9 Portavogie Road,

Donaghadee, BT21 0FB

Donaghadee, BT21 0QA

Ballyhalbert, BT22 1BU

• Detached Bungalow Enjoying Views of the Sea • Lounge with Sea Views / Dining Room with Sea Views & Sliding Patio Doors to Raised Sun Deck • Modern Kitchen with Range of Integrated Appliances and Built-in Breakfast Area • 3 Bedrooms • Modern Bathroom with White Suite & Separate Shower

• Detached Bungalow with Sea and Countryside Views • Sympathetically Re-furbished • Lounge with Patio Doors, Multifuel Stove and Sea Views • Kitchen/Dining with Range of Appliances • 3 Bedrooms

• An Attractive Semi Detached Family Home in an Exclusive and Prestigious Setting • Spacious and Bright Accommodation Incorporating Drawing Room and Family/Dining Room Open Plan to the Kitchen • Striking Fitted Kitchen with Granite Work Surfaces and Integrated Appliances, Separate Utility Room • 4 Bedrooms Including Master with Ensuite • Stylish Bathroom and Cloakroom with WC • Phoenix Gas Heating with Underfloor System to Ground Floor • UPVC Double Glazed Window Frames • Matching Brick Single Garage Approached by Paviour Driveway • Pleasant Rear Garden with Lawned Area, Patio and Open Aspect

Offers Around £235,000 Contact Bangor 028 9145 1166

Cubicle / Cloakroom Suite • Oil Fired Heating / Double Glazing • Integral Double Garage with Access to Basement / Tarmac Driveway • Corner Site with Landscaped Gardens to Front, Side and South Facing to Rear Available for Immediate Occupation

Offers Around £249,950 Contact Bangor 028 9145 1166

• Bathroom with White Suite • Attached Matching Garage with Store beyond • Oil Fired Central Heating System • UPVC Double Glazing Extensive Site

Offers Around £150,000 Contact Bangor 028 9145 1166

105 GROOMSPORT ROAD, BANGOR BT20 5NS

54 HIGH STREET, HOLYWOOD BT18 9AJ

TELEPHONE: 028 9145 1166

TELEPHONE: 028 9042 4747

EMAIL: bangor@templetonrobinson.com

EMAIL: holywood@templetonrobinson.com

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hotproperty March2014

NEW PHASE NOW ON RELEASE AT

THE FORGE,

MOSS ROAD, BALLYGOWAN (OFF CHURCH HILL)

Building on the success from 2013, Hilmark Homes are delighted to announce the release of the next phase of quality new build homes at The Forge, Ballygowan.

Life At The Forge...

A Breath Of Fresh Air...

2 BED SEMI-DETACHED HOMES AT £115,000 3 BED SEMI-DETACHED HOMES AT £135,000 4 BED DETACHED HOMES AT £165,000

NEW SHOW HOME COMING SOON Another Successful Development From Hilmark Homes

www.hilmarkhomes.com

Selling Agent: BTW Shiells, 525 Lisburn Rd, Belfast, BT9 7GQ

Tel: 028 9066 8888 southbelfast@btwshiells.com www.btwshiells.com

hotproperty March2014

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STANDARDS YOU CAN TRUST Now open late Thursday to 8pm 10 The Brae, Down, Groomsport

6 Rockfield Drive, Bangor

93 Donaghadee Road, Bangor • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

4 Bedrooms ( Ensuite ) 2 + Reception Rooms Upvc Double Glazing Oak Kitchen Utility Room White Sanitary Ware Attached garage/ Games Room • Cul-de-Sac

• • • • • • •

Bedrooms 2 Reception Rooms Conservatory White Gloss Kitchen White Bathroom Suite Upvc Double Glazing Oil Fired Central Heating • Extensive Site

O.A. £229,950

O.A. £279,950

O.A. £219,950

51 Ballycrochan Road, Bangor • • • • • • • •

17 Tennyson Avenue, Bangor Ulster Property Sales Bangor Branch are delighted to welcome the return of Garth Hall to their busy Main Street office after 2 1/2 year absence.

4 Bedrooms ( Ensuite) Lounge / Dining Area Upvc Double Glazing Phoenix Gas Heating Modern Kitchen White Bathroom Suite Extensive Site Large Driveway / Garage

• • • •

Corner Site 5 Bedrooms 2 Reception Oil Fired Central Heating • Kitchen/Dining Area • Handy Location

From joining the company in1996 as a Manager Garth became a Partner in 2002 specialising in New Developments and Residential Sales in North Down.

O.A. £209,950 65 Silverbirch Road, Down, Bangor • • • • • • • •

O.A. £199,950 12 Hampton Gardens, Bangor

Since 2011 he has pursued a career in Marketing with Millward Brown Ulster however with the recovering housing market coupled with his passion for the business he has decided to step back into Estate Agency World to build upon his 24 years experience within the career.

Garth an Estate Management Graduate from the University of Ulster is a life resident of Bangor and he is married with two children.

4 Bedrooms 3 Receptions (Study) Beech Kitchen White Bathroom Shower Room Oil Fired Central Heating Upvc Double Glazing Attached Garage

• • • • • •

4 Bedrooms (1 Ensuite) 2 Reception Rooms Sun Room Oak Kitchen White Bathroom Phoenix Gas Central Heating • Integral Garage • Large Site

O.A. £192,500

O.A. £195,000 21 Ardvanagh Avenue, Conlig, Newtownards • 4 Bedrooms (Ensuite) • 3 Reception Rooms • Pine Kitchen/ Utility • White Bathroom Suite • Upvc Double Glazing • Oil Fired Central Heating • Spacious Site • Alarmed

• • • •

• • • •

• 4 Bedrooms (2 G. Floor) • 3 Reception Rooms • White Gloss Kitchen • White Bathroom Suite • Upvc Double Glazing • Upvc Facias • Oil Fired Central Heating • Garage

O.A. £179,950

50 Rathmore Road, Down, Bangor

75 Morston Park, Bangor

14 Manor Crescent, Bangor

49 Silverstream Drive, Bangor

O.A. £94,950

• 3 Bedrooms • 2 Reception Rooms • Oil Fired Central Heating • uPVC Double Glazing • Mature Location • Immediate Possession

• Semi Detached • 3 Bedrooms • 1+ Reception Room • Oil Fired Central Heating • Double Glazing • Walnut Kitchen • Enclosed Rear Garden • Useful Floored Roofspace • Cul de Sac • Immediate Possession

ED

RE AG

O.A. £92,500

• 3 Bedrooms • Lounge/ Dining Area • Maple Kitchen • White Bathroom Suite • Upvc Double Glazing • Oil Fired Central Heating • Attached Garage • Generous Site

6 Balmoral Drive, Bangor

Semi detached 3 Bedrooms 2 Receptions Oil Fired Central Heating • Upvc Double Glazing • White Bathroom Suite • Detached Garage • Handy Location

O.A. £115,000

• Conservatory • 4 Bedrooms (Ensuite) • 2 Reception Rooms • Maple Kitchen • White Bathroom Suite • Phoenix Gas Heating • Integral Garage • Cul de Sac

10 Vernon Park, Bangor

O.A. £169,950

• • • •

O.A. £119,950

• 2 Bedrooms • 1 Reception • Open Plan kitchen/ Dining • Upvc Double Glazing • Oil Fired Central Heating • Garage Space • Cul-de- Sac

109 Ashbury Ave, Bangor

26 Fernmore Road, Bangor

O.A. £185,000

2 Bedroom Lounge White Kitchen White Bathroom Suite Oil Fired Central Heating Detached Garage • Popular Location Cavity Wall Insulation UPVC Fascias • Alarm

Flexible Accommodation 4 Bedrooms/1 Reception OR 3 Bedrooms/ 2 Receptions Walnut Kitchen Office/Kitchen Bathroom/ Shower Room uPVC Double Glazing Phoenix Gas Central Heating Immaculately Presented

11 Kilmaine Road, Bangor • Extended • 3 Bedrooms • 2+ Reception Rooms • Oil Fired Central Heating • Upvc Double Glazing • Detached Garage • Beech Kitchen • Downstairs Bathroom • Immediate Possession

O.A. £160,000

O.A. £119,950

21 Westmoreland Crescent, Bangor

40 Fairfield Park, Bangor

• 3 Bedrooms • 1+ Reception Room • White Kitchen • Oil fired Central Heating • Detached Garage • White Bathroom Suite • Double Glazing • Cul-de-sac

• Mid Terrace Property • 3 Bedrooms • Oil Fired Central Heating • Upvc Double Glazing • Spacious Diner Kitchen • Cul-de-Sac • Immediate Possession

O.A. £115,000

O.A. £99,950

O.A. £97,950

10 Silverstream Avenue, Bangor

1 Abbots Walk, Bangor

95 Elmwood Drive, Bangor

• 2 Bedrooms • 1 Reception • Oil Fired Central Heating • Upvc Double Glazing • Oak Kitchen • White Bathroom Suite • Immediate Possession • Handy Location

O.A. £74,950

• • • • •

End Terrace 3 Bedrooms Lounge Maple Kitchen White Bathroom Suite • Oil Fired Central Heating • Front, Side & Rear Gardens

O.A. £57,500

• Oil Fired Central Heating • 2 Bedrooms • 1 Reception • Kitchen • White Bathroom • Enclosed Rear • EPC: E41/C69

O.A. £55,000

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hotproperty March2014

The Cornmill

idyllic setting

The Cornmill development situated in the idyllic setting on Moss Road, Millisle has always been a popular development due to ist superb location and value for money. Appealing to first time buyers, young families and those downsizing who enjoy the country setting, minutes from the beach and just a short distance from Bangor or Newtownards. Built by established builders Pearlow Developments they offer a superb range of detached and semi detached homes finished to the highest turnkey standard.

A beautiful showhome has been furnished by Herron of Donaghadee and is open for viewing Sundays 2-4 pm For further details contact Reeds Rains Estate Agents, Newtownards tel 91814144

FURNITUREFOR LESS this HOLIDAY WEEKEND

NEW RANGE OF OAK FURNITURE AT GREAT PRICES

£95

£195

FRESHEN UP YOUR CONSERVATORY WITH A NEW CANE SUITE

£149

£175

SPECIAL OFFERS GALORE

NEWTOWNARDS ROAD, D’DEE BT21 0NL

028 9188 9295

1/2 MILE FROM D’DEE RUGBY CLUB

www.herronsfurnitureltd.co.uk

Investment

under the Hammer …. a guide to buying rental property at auction

As more and more people turn to property as a key feature within their long-term investment plans, buying at auction is becoming increasingly popular.

maintenance issues required to bring the property up to a rentable standard, should always be taken into account before you start bidding.”

The obvious appeal for buyers is to ‘bag a bargain’ from amongst the very wide range of properties that go ‘under the gavel’. But to maximise chances of success, would-be investors need to be prepared and follow a few basic rules before plunging into an auction purchase.

Belvoir recommends the following at a glance guide for anyone looking to buy at auction:

Property specialist Trevor Burns, who owns the Belvoir lettings and property management offices on Abbey Street in Bangor and on Regent Street in Newtownards, explains one of the main benefits of buying an investment property at auction is the process is very quick as both the purchaser and the seller agree to complete the transaction in a few weeks, and there are no ‘chains’ involved.

“It is also possible to buy a property with a tenant already in place, providing an instant income as soon as the purchase is completed,” he said.

Before proceeding, Trevor’s advice is: “You should never buy a property that has not been researched thoroughly. I would always advise viewing a property and having a professional survey done prior to the sale.

“The desirability and tenant appeal of the area it is located in, plus any obvious repair or

Do: Research the local market; budget for renovation costs; view the property and have a professional survey carried out in advance; set a realistic budget, and stick to it; find out what ‘rental return’ the property could achieve; visit an auction in advance to observe and understanding proceedings before bidding; arrive in plenty of time to assess the competition; stay calm; try national as well as local auctions; make sure finances are in place prior to auction day; remember you will have solicitor and surveyor fees, possibly stamp duty, plus the auctioneer’s fee and the cost of any repair work that may be needed; and get advice from an independent lettings or property specialist.

Don’t: Bid beyond the limit you have set for yourself; buy a property you have not researched; enter the bidding process too early as it could push up the price; get emotionally involved; and bid in overly large increments.

hotproperty March2014

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hotproperty March2014

Landlord Registration Scheme -

Know the facts

At Fetherston Clements, we are keen to promote good practice for our new and existing clients. Many landlords will not be aware of the new legislation regarding their rental properties.

Since February 25, 2014 ‘The Landlord Registration Scheme Regulations (NI) 2012’ has been in effect.

This new legislation requires all landlords who have private tenancies which commenced on or after February 25, 2014 to register with the scheme immediately.

Landlords with tenancies established before the commencement date have a grace period of 12 months from the commencement date to enrol, and once the registration process is complete a Certificate of Registration will be issued.

What is the purpose of this new legislation?

Until this scheme was introduced each council area gathered information about landlords in their specific area. However, it is not uncommon for private landlords to have properties in a variety of different council areas which made accessing the information somewhat troublesome. The scheme aims to instil a sense of professionalism and expand the landlords knowledge base and increase confidence between the landlord and tenant relationship.

The concept of creating a centrally held register of private landlords is beneficial and will allow

tenants, neighbours and local councils to establish if landlords are registered; educate and support landlords; establish the number of landlords in Northern Ireland; and provide landlords with updates on their responsibilities and duties as a landlord.

Who needs to register?

A landlord is anyone who receives rent for accommodation regardless of the time period. For example, those who rent a property on a long lease or a matter of weeks as a holiday rental are both required to register under the new legislation.

How much does it cost?

Online registration costs £70.00 and a non electronic registration fee is £80.00. This payment will register the landlord for three years. This is a one off payment regardless of how many properties you own.

What is the fee used for?

The money generated from the registration process will be used to fund the Landlord Registration Scheme which provides guidance, advice and provide helpful and effective information.

What happens if I don’t register?

Non-compliance with the Landlord Registration Scheme may result in a fine. Those who do not

register within the time frame may face a penalty of up to £2,500.

Is anyone exempt from paying the registration fee?

Geoff Thompson

Yes, those who have registered a house under the Houses in Multiple Occupation Registration Scheme and landlords who are set up as a limited company. However, these landlords have to complete the registration process and provide their HMO registration number or the company registration number.

Who can access the information?

The information can be disclosed by the registrar to a district council, the Department of Finance and Personnel Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Once the register is established the general public will eventually be able to search the database to verify if a landlord is successfully registered.

How can Fetherston Clements Estate Agents help you?

If you are unsure about anything in relation to the Landlord Registration Scheme, need guidance on how to register or would like to have a chat about property rentals/management please feel free to contact Nicholas McCarey from our South Belfast Office (02890 661111) or Geoff Thompson from the North Down Office (02891 479797).

Nicholas McCarey

hotproperty March2014

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Move Into Millmount Village Millmount Village is East Belfast’s most exciting new village development set in a picturesque environment off Comber Road in Dundonald.

House Types: Each house type at Millmount Village has been created to replicate the character and charm of a traditional village with a superb range of house types. The current release comprises two and three bedroom townhouses, 3 bedroom semi-detached houses and detached dwellings.

Prices: Starting from £119,950.

Property Size: From spacious two-bedroom mid townhouses to three and four bedroom dwellings, these elegantly styled homes offer functional layouts in differing sizes. Millmount Village provides homes to suit a wide spectrum of home buyers – from those starting out on the property ladder, families and those who wish to downsize.

Specification: The external facades of the properties incorporates a diversity of finishes, including brick, render and stone effect. Ornate eaves brackets, brick corbelling and an array of additional architectural details to selected house types add timeless character to this beautiful village-style development.

Internally, the turnkey finish includes a quality fitted kitchen and electrical appliances, stylish white sanitary ware, contemporary fireplace surrounds with electric or gas fires in the living room, floor and splash back wall tiling to the kitchen and bathrooms, carpet to the living room, stairs, landing and bedrooms and all internal walls, ceilings and woodwork are painted.

Key Features: The design and layout of Millmount Village, the charming architectural design, high specification turnkey finish and an outstanding location make Millmount Village a special place. Millmount Village offers a safe environment close to schools, shops and entertainment.

Location: Situated off Comber Road, Millmount Village is a short distance from a host of amenities in Dundonald village including the award winning Comber Greenway. Belfast City Centre is easily accessible for commuters as is Comber and Newtownards. To travel further afield, the George Best Belfast City Airport is a convenient 15 minute journey by car.

For more information, telephone BTW Shiells on 028 9042 8989 or log onto www.btwshiells.com

Coming Soon High Bangor Road, Donaghadee

A New Development with a range of 3 & 4 Bed Detached and Semi Detached Homes For further information, please register your details with Ryan Hetherington on 028 9146 3721

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hotproperty March2014

NEW HIGH SPECIFICATION TURNKEY HOMES

Blackwood Manor off Mountain Road Newtownards

NOW ON RELEASE

Prices from

ÂŁ112,500

built in trust

Telephone Lagan for further information on 028 9026 1026 Selling Agent Reeds Rains 028 9181 4144 www.reedsrains.co.uk

hotproperty March2014

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PHASE 2 NOW ON RELEASE HIGH S SPECIFICATION PECIFICATION ATION TUR TURNKEY NKEY FINISH

TO TOWNHOUSES NHOUSES

SEMI-DETACHED SEMI SEMI-DETA ETACHED D

FROM OM

FROM OM

£119,950

£135,000

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14

hotproperty March2014

‘It’s like being on holiday every day’

Throughout Europe, residential park home living has been about for a number of years, and more recently in Northern Ireland those who have reached or who are approaching retirement age have been embracing the lifestyle which allows them to release equity from their traditional homes and become part of a secure gated community.

To find out more about what sort of retirement this can bring, Hot Property visited Sea Haven Park in Groomsport, where one resident compared it to ‘like being on holiday every day’.

David Williams, Managing Director with Lifestyle Homes Ireland, explained the company currently have two sites in Northern Ireland – Sea Haven at Groomsport and Ballyhalbert

-23rd d n 2 2 CH MARonwards 10am

OPEN WEEKEND

Park Homes which were both established parks.

“Because of it’s proximity to Belfast, a lot of people feel comfortable about coming out of the city to Sea Haven,” David explained. “They can release the equity from their home and move to the coast. They like the fact when they come down here it is a secure, gated community with people of a similar age to themselves. People really do feel when they are changing pace, going from full time work to all of a sudden being retired or semi-retired, and for them it is idyllic to settle 40 metres from the beach”.

We were shown round a show home on the coastal site and enquired what it was like here in the middle of winter. “Homes are built to a residential standard, that’s one of the conditions of having a residential licence,” David highlighted. “They are very thermally efficient, and one of the things people notice when they move to a park home is that running costs are significantly lower. They are all double glazed and centrally heated, and have a thermally efficient combi-boiler which does everything – the hot water and central heating.

“People quite like the fact they can lock up and go,” he continued. “Generally, the houses are new build, and are very easy to clean and maintain.

Generally, the children are no longer at home, they don’t have to have two bathrooms and an en suite and two reception rooms, making it a lot more manageable.

“People can have 50% more living space, and there are a variety of styles they can have their home in, with different exterior cosmetics,” he continued. “We can provide disabled access, extra wide doorways and halls and accessibility ramps.

They can pick a big or small plot, one by the sea or in a quieter area of the park. We work with all the major manufacturers so they can choose the complete design of their interior. If people are into the lifestyle, everything else is just detail.

“There is a high degree of interest in outside living space,” David explained. “Almost everybody puts up decking to take advantage of location

There’s no place like home and there’s no home like Lifestyle Homes N.Ireland.

Like conventional developments, there are avenues, and each home has it’s own address and post code, and mail is delivered directly to each house. “We have modern communal grounds, and there is a full-time park manager who lives on the site,” David related.

Join us for our open weekend at the Seahaven Residential Park, in the picturesque harbourside village of Groomsport, and discover what it’s like to have the good life on your doorstep.

Call: 02891 464323 www.lifestylehomesireland.com

on offer, we can bespoke build homes so people can choose everything from the number of bedrooms all they way down to worktops in the kitchen and what curtains they want,” David related. “We can sell homes furnished or unfurnished, and single units or twin units up to 1,200 square feet. Some customers want to downsize, and what they are looking for is purely location.

“The biggest thing is we are trying to deliver to somebody is what the lifestyle is, what they buy into and what kind of retirement it represents. While we have showrooms here, enabling people to see what is

“There is a real sense of community here, and people are very close with their neighbours,” he concluded. “You can have all the convenience of a house in a single storey”.

Words – Violet Brown. Photos Jonathan Coates

hotproperty March2014

15

Furnish your home for less

Anything and everything is for sale to the highest bidder

Gerry Holden-Downes and Grahame Hull established Bangor Auctions in 1991

With the current trend of upcycling, business is booming at Bangor Auctions with many people choosing a more thrifty route to furnish their homes.

need to set up your own home,” he advised.

Gerry also does quite a lot of probate valuations, and calls out regularly to people’s houses to advise them what they can and can’t sell.

Galway, Donegall and Dublin,” he related.

The success of their business, both men believe, can largely be attributed to their good staff, Alistair Bell, Issac Caldwell and Daniel Frazer who have been with them a number of years.

Business, Graham related, had been excellent.

To find out more and to check out what’s “Our Facebook page keeps us in touch with “In this type of climate, people tend to go selling each week, visit the community,” Gerry advised. Grahame added towards recycling,” he said. “You can furnish www.bangorauctions.co.uk your house for between £500 and £1,000.” Gerry their new website received 27,000 hits in the The auction house was set up in 1991 by Words - Violet Brown. Photos - Bob Torrens first five weeks. “We are getting people coming added: “They are shopping more thriftly’.

Grahame Hull and Gerry Holden-Downes, both to the auction from all over, from as far away as of whom had separate antique shops in Every week they sell roughly between 600 Bangor’s Gray’s Hill. They started in a the garage and 650 lots, aiming for around 150 lots an of a car show room in the town’s Albert Street

The auction show room ready for Thursday evening’s sale

Fine art is on offer

before moving into the main show room in Crosby Street. A move to Greenway Industrial Estate, Conlig allowed them to construct purpose built auction show rooms.

Gerry, who comes from an entrepreneurial background, is a self taught auctioneer. “With years of experience, you get better at it,” he said.

Basically, Gerry explained, we sell anything and everything from house clearances, antiques and second- hand furniture. “Everything you

hour. “We do a general sale every Thursday evening, with an antique and art sale on the last Thursday of each month,” Gerry explained.

“On the first Wednesday of each month there is a bed sale.

“We have a very good website where items can be viewed on line. It is essential people see goods before they bid for them. Stock can be viewed at the showrooms between 2pm and 8pm on Wednesdays, and up until 6pm on a Thursday when the auction starts,” he continued.

During the rest of the week, they are busy taking in stock, and anything which is sold on a Thursday has to be taken away by 5pm on a Friday. On a Wednesday, they get items ready for viewing, sort them into lots and catalogue them.

16

hotproperty March2014

Spring cleaning goals Jillian Espey helps inspire us to spruce things up at home It is amazing how good you feel after!

Freshen up the bathroom

With spring on the horizon, it’s natural to revisit, revise, and resolve to spruce things up in the coming months. Similar to our ‘new year's resolutions’, the choices we make each spring are goals, and working towards and achieving our goals is a sure way to feeling accomplished and fulfilled.

Whether you are hoping to reinvent your home or just make a few small, but important changes, here are some starter ideas to help you make your own ‘decorating resolutions’ – and design the coming months to be your best yet:

Neglected lotions and potions must be parted with! Go through your medicine cabinet and toss outdated medications, half-used bottles of skin treatments and years-old cosmetics, many of which lose their effectiveness after prolonged sitting. Once you’ve cleaned these out, consider freshening up your bathroom with a monogrammed bathmat, new hand towels, or scented candles.

Bring the outside in Even if only for special occasions, treat yourself to fresh flowers. A simple orchid in the guest bathroom or even a new potted plant, grouped near patio doors. Introduce natural elements to your home which can be longlasting, and add a fresh, organic touch to your surroundings.

Think little luxuries, with big impact

Start with a clean slate

The most economical way to make any home look brighter and better is to clear out what’s no longer necessary. Take a weekend to tackle the home office, roof space, or crammed wardrobe.

Small changes can make a big difference. A sofa is one of your biggest decorating investments, but you don’t have to buy a new one to enhance the tone. Instead, a new throw and cushions can give your sofa a fresh look, without a big price tag. A luxurious woolen checked throw can make that old, cozy club

Why should you come to C&R Interiors for your new kitchen or bedroom?

We are planners and installers of the highest quality furniture and it is our mission to exceed our customers’ expectations in craftsmanship, professionalism and high-quality precision designs.

• 25 years in the industry with a diverse list of clients, tastes and needs.

• Professional and experienced sales team, designer and fitters who will work with you to turn your dream into reality.

• Bespoke styles and colours offering limitless possibilities and versatility.

We have something here for everyone whether you want classic and traditional, minimalist or something more daring and extravagant.

We can advise you and give you inspiration from our own experience or you can take a look at some of our previous work, which has been featured in The Best of Irish Kitchens magazine.

We will manage the project leaving you to make the important decisions on the final touches such as room décor.

We want to ensure you have long lasting quality so we only use the best quality money can buy. No sub standard materials used or shortcuts taken.

We can assure our customers’ of excellent advice and an expert design service as we pay attention to the little things.

We love what we do! Each job is something we are proud of.

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Interiors

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chair your favorite new reading place.

Curate your personal library Many people are switching to e-books for new book purchases. All the more reason to tend to your existing library. Decide on a system that works for you, be it grouping books by size, subject matter, or style. A stack of handsome coffee table books, magazines or periodicals next to a favourite reading spot is informal and inviting.

Picture your loved ones

in love with a style, hunt down pieces to complete the set by scouring eBay or finding online companies that replace pieces of retired china patterns.

Design the rest of your year As mentioned before, resolutions are goals, and goals are worth pursuing year-round. So plot out your design goals for the entire year.

With the inspirations you’ve torn from magazines – both from past issues and things you see throughout the year. Start your own design notebook with patterns, objects, colours, and rooms that catch your eye. Tackle projects one-by-one – not all at once.

Digital cameras have us printing photos less – but they then often go unseen by visiting family and friends. Pick stand-out shots from Start small the last few years, have them professionally Most importantly, start with a manageable printed, and group together those with a common thread in similar frames. Less is more, mission. Repainting a bathroom or just getting so choose only your favorites – and spread them your home office space clutter-free will give you a sense of accomplishment, and that feeling will throughout your home. inspire you to keep achieving your design Set down an anchor resolutions at the speed that’s right for you.

Anchor and define common living areas with If you need help with inspiration, are stuck large rugs in durable fabrics like seagrass, on what is needed, or if you are unsure what woven’s, and durable sisal, over which you can can be done with your windows, room layout or layer smaller rugs. In doing so, you help guide simply what paint tone to go for, then please the eye to gathering spaces in your home. call in to Alan Espey Interiors for some useful Send the orphans packing advise. Our store is located on High Street, Newtownards, and I am sure we can shed some We've all got beloved ‘orphans’ – the last light on your interior design needs, and give you remaining items of what once were stemware, that much needed spring in you step when it silver, or china sets. Donate these items and comes to spring cleaning your home this season. start fresh with a new pattern – or, if you're still

hotproperty March2014

The diggers have arrived Jan Hollinger takes us with her through her restoration project

So here we are – another month has passed and what has been happening? Not as much as we would have liked, but I guess that’s how it goes on a project like this.

Any of you who have been mad enough to embark on the restoration of an old stone building will probably not be in the slightest bit surprised that progress, thus far, has been slower than we would have wished for.

Although our builders were poised and ready to go we have had some hurdles to jump before letting them loose. You see, stone walls do not

beautiful stonework and the character of the building, whilst complying with planning and building regulations. We are very lucky in that we have a great support team around us with the fabulous builders (I have to say that or they’ll down tools), our most knowledgeable and creative architects (that should keep them on our side), and the very understanding and helpful Building Control department (more crawling, I know), keeping us on the straight and narrow and finding the best ways to get the building back into use.

family members worshipped there until it was deconsecrated. She remembers her grandfather’s telephone number was Greyabbey 6, just one number before that of the church and hatchery, which can be seen on the sign we salvaged from the building and which now hangs in our kitchen – I did give it a wash first.

Although, in essence, we are bringing it back to its original use as a meeting place, I don’t think anyone wanting to use it as a venue would be too happy with no heating, a few gas lamps and drafts from the windows that would turn a lovely steaming bowl of soup into chilled gazpacho before you got your spoon into it.

Back to the grindstone for me now as any of my pruck that hasn’t been moved before the builders get here tomorrow might just end up in a skip.

The old sash window sees the light of day for the first time in 70 years.

The original sash window sees the light of day for the first time in 70 years

So it has been a little bit frustrating, but now we are seeing things beginning to be transformed. I am amazed at how much two men, a mini digger and a dumper can clear in a day! The old raised flower beds and bits of dilapidated outbuildings have been removed from the inner courtyard to make way for the new drainage system and the ultra modern toilet block. The existing workers’ toilet with a very narrow entrance from the yard – anyone above a size 8 would have trouble getting in so no hope for me – and no door just wouldn’t have been up to the job, and has now been repurposed as a garden tool store.

behave in the same way as conventional block It never occurred to us anyone not involved or brick walls and things like damp proofing and in this project would be able to buy into our insulation need to be approached in different vision for the place before it was at least ways. partially completed, but we are delighted to It’s all a bit of a balancing act trying to find a have been proven wrong. Three lovely young engaged couples who heard about our plans happy compromise between retaining the through friends and family all asked if they could come down and chat to us and see the building. I explained to them all it was currently only a shell, and they would need to bring bucket loads of imagination with them. But, one by one, or two by two to be more precise, they arrived and loved the old church. We now have three bookings for wedding functions. The first of those being planned for this December, the other two for next August, so not being ready is not an option!

Now that work has started in earnest we are more excited about the whole project. Although we have both renovated many houses over the years, to see this old church re-emerging from the muddle of overgrown ivy and old buildings that had hidden it from sight for about 70 years is just amazing.

www.diamondbedroomsystems.co.uk

We would like to thank Elma Wickens for contacting us with information about the old church. It transpires her family had lived in Greyabbey for generations and some of her ancestors had helped build it in the 1820’s, then

The sign for the Orange Tree Hatchery was unearthed during restoration

If anyone has any information or photos of the building throughout its history, we would love you to contact us by telephone on 02842788103 or by emailing food@orangetreehouse.co.uk

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hotproperty March2014

Gardening Gems with Neil Porteous, Mount Stewart Gardens

Flowering shrubs which flower on wood made during the current season tend to flower after mid-July. Shrubs such as Buddleja, Fuchsia, Salvia and Hydrangea all come into this category and are best pruned now. Choose a dry, mild day with no threat of frost to tackle this work. Prune back to prominent buds and feed with a nitrogenous fertilizer only when the threat of late spring frosts has withdrawn. I like to mulch after this first application of fertilizer.

Also, those plants which have colourful winter stems can be managed to optimise the production of one and two year-old stems by stooling them down to the ground every two years in March.

Cornus (Dogwood), Salix (Willow), Tilia (Lime) and Acer (Maple), may all be managed in this way. It looks a bit drastic once done, but with feeding and mulching, they soon grow back strongly.

March should see the beginning of a fine procession of colour, but this year many plants look as if they will flower precociously.

Already Rhododendrons which would normally flower in April are beginning to open out. Sadly, if the weather was to turn cold, these flowers may be lost.

The most positive statement concerning the weather is that it has been mild.

The days are lengthening, the gales have abated for a while, but the ground is still very wet and pasty. Practically every type of vegetable which can be grown from seed may be sown in March. If the drying weather continues, the ground may be warm enough to sow directly towards the end of the month, but for now, nearly everything will need to be started under glass or cloches.

Many Camellia lovers protect the emerging blooms with a thin material, should the frosts come. Similarly, if you have a special, newly planted treasure in your garden, you may want to protect it overnight if frost is forecast. Most plants tend to be lost to frost in the first two years, but they are comparatively easy to protect when small. After a couple of years this becomes impracticable as the plants get too big. But when they are young, mesh or fleece is perfect for this task. Many of the modern fleeces or meshes allow such good light transmission that they could be left on for a few days with no ill effect to the plant. Neil Porteous

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hotproperty March2014

19

Interesting interiors

What’s on Trend for 2014 with Jillian Espey BA (Hons) Design and Applied Arts www.alanespey-interiors.co.uk

A new year means a fresh start, and what better way to kick off 2014 than by updating the look of your home.

All it takes are a few simple changes to breathe life into familiar spaces. This year interior design trends are all about creating dramatic impact from simplicity. The looks are

simultaneously more bold and more accessible than ever before.

Here are few of the most prominent trends I have noticed appearing after viewing this

year’s new collections.

1. A Need for Navy Navy blue will be a big trend for 2014. I’m seeing a lot of this shade on the runways, on the streets, in editorials and in chic interiors.

So it is time to leave gray and beige in the rear-view mirror in favour of deeply-saturated hues like navy and plum. In fact, navy is considered the ‘new neutral’ for its ability to blend with other colours and styles. If a darker shade on the wall seems too daring, why not start with a piece of furniture such as a sofa as your focal point and work from there.

mix them with other graphic patterns for a modern look. Also look out for Toile for a twist with the floral print.

5. Urban warrior This fun playful trend with strong eastern European cultural design references is all about playful escapism. You can see this trend very clearly in Harlequin’s Jardin Boheme and Clarke & Clarke South Beach collections. The bright bold patterns manufactured in wool, felt, dyed linens and printed designs clash beautifully.

2. Rich fabrics

6. Light-toned wood

Say goodbye to simple cottons and linens, and embrace luxurious velvet, earthy suede and even textured corduroy this season. These fabrics are sophisticated yet durable, and can hold up to the darker colour schemes popular for 2014.

For many years, dark tones like mahogany and cherry dominated the wood furniture market. This year it looks like caramel, honey and bleached tones will take the spotlight.

The softer look blends with any design style and keeps furnishings from feeling heavy or form feeling fussy.

3. Timeless Design A return to tradition is something that interiors are yearning for this year. After the long-standing trend of modern and eclectic decor, more people want to feel comfortable and at ease by returning to traditional styles.

There are a number of ways that you can achieve a timeless design, from striped wallpapers to linen damask curtains.

another key trend. This is not for the faint hearted as it has to be a mix of pattern and of colour. Examples of this are seen through a lot of the fabric collections coming in for Spring 2014.

Be bold, brave and embrace all forms of colour.

All the new collections are arriving thick and fast into the show room So if you are looking for some Inspiration this Spring, pop in and get inspired at Alan Espey Interiors, 41 High Street Newtownards.

7. Defined colour flow This is an evolution and step forward from banding your own fabric together. This new trend of colours seamlessly flowing from one hue into the next worked its way into wallpaper collections last year, but now has progressed into fabrics, and looks amazing on a sofa or long flowing full length curtains. This dip dye look is the new in thing and I love it!

The best examples are in Harlequin’s Landscape Voiles and The New Romo Black Collections..

Offering a range of services: • Interior & exterior painting • Wallpaper hanging • Roof coatings • Interior & exterior staining • Moss & damp control • Water blasting • Airless spraying

8. A Bevy of Blues From rich, saturated colours like navy and indigo to bright, vibrant shades like peacock blue and cobalt, blue will continue to reign supreme in the coming year.

4. Blossoming Prints: Modern takes on classic 9. Orange patterns Florals and Chintz are this seasons 'must haves'.These triedand-true fabrics are popping up everywhere in fashion and decor. I suggest taking a bold approach and

Orange has been brought back to life, set with new tones of purple or navy, or left as an impact statement in room of grey and neutrals. This colour is set to dominate many schemes with vibrancy making for lively and stimulating colour palettes.

10. Colour/Colour/Colour.

Celebrate colour in a way never before seen. Mixing all tones under the rainbow is

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hotproperty March2014

Are you about to

transform your house on a tight budget?

Are you sick of your home and have no idea how to improve it? Have you got a budget, but it's not enough?

The makers and presenters of BBC TWO’s ‘The house that 100k built’ are returning with a new different series. This time they are looking for existing homeowners that only have a shoe-string budget, but are desperate to transform their homes.

Would you love a new kitchen but can barely afford the price tag? Has your family outgrown your home, but you can’t afford to move? Do you feel worn down by your dark and dreary rooms and dream of a bright and contemporary space? Does your heart sink every time you arrive at your door?

Expert on architecture and design, Kieran Long and architect Piers Taylor, are exploring new low cost ways to create incredible homes.

They want to hear from you if you are about to embark on a project to transform part or all of your home. You just need a modest budget and be open to design ideas.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the series, Remarkable Television would like to hear from you. You can get in touch, sending your name, contact number and a brief outline of your project to house@endemoluk.com

Architecture and design expert, Kieran Long and architect Piers Taylor are exploring new low cost ways to create incredible homes

THE NEW TILE TRENDS SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTION 2014 Modernising your home can be daunting but at Ceramica Etc they have everything you need to take the stress out of the process. The latest in fashionable tile trends are now available from their showroom in Bangor.

New

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Spring/Summer collection in time for all those updates and refurbishments. Just in, stylish patterned and retro floors and walls. Rustic metro bricks in muted minks, creams and greys contrast with the vibrant colours available in their new Deco range.

The secret is not to over do the patterns, at Ceramica Etc they have fantastic displays showing all the latest must have’s. Their favourites include classic patterned floors and simple white walls, metro bricks with a bright and tasteful splash of colour, and stunning splashbacks in glass or mosaics.

Stone floors are still the timeless option for a kitchen or living room extension. Large format grey porcelain tiles suit the very simple contemporary look, all of these are on display in the extensive showroom on Balloo Avenue. Call in for a browse or a chat.

hotproperty March2014

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hotproperty March2014

Bringing you the latest innovations in Window Blinds and Shutters

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Most conservatories are too cold to use throughout the Winter months and many retain too much heat throughout the Summer because of the polycarbonate or glass roof.

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This new insulated ceiling follows the internal vaulted shape of the existing roof structure creating a stylish roof space that compliments the rest of the structure. The ceiling is similar to any other ceiling in your house!

This new insulation system, incorporating the extremely efficient super-foil insulation material (NASA – developed!), will not only make your conservatory much warmer in Winter

and retain 90 percent of generated heat but also makes the room considerably more comfortable in the Summer by controlling the heat build up.

So rather than knocking down and rebuilding a new room, this new solution costs only about the same price as fitting thermal roof blinds which are nowhere near as efficient in terms of U values and R ratings. These blinds are only really effective for glare but get dirty and unsightly relatively quickly.

We also do a range of heat-retaining blinds suitable for round the glass walls of your conservatory – ask for details.

The process starts on the 1st day with 2 joiners sealing round your conservatory roof panels, putting cross ventilation around edges then installing insulation and plasterboard. Next day, the new ceiling is plastered. This wet plaster is left a few days – normally 3-4 in dry spells – then a painter puts 2 coats of white matt emulsion paint on. Complete in 7-10 days!

We have already installed numerous jobs around the province with satisfied customers willing to let potential viewers see the finished product. Please contact us FREE by phone on 0800 6124 971/0800 3357 137 or 028 9268 3178 or Mobile 07771 745475 or go on-line at:

For further details visit: www.conservatoryconversions.co.uk

hotproperty March2014

GET PROPERLY PLASTERED WITH

WADDELS

HILL

PLASTERING & RENDERING SERVICES WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

DAMP PROOFING NI Damp Proofing NI are a highly reliable, highly punctual, extremely experienced and very professional business with many years of experience in damp proofing and plastering services. We pride ourselves on the extremely high quality of our workmanship and an attention to detail that is unmatched amongst our competition.

As one of the leading damp proofing companies in Northern Ireland we provide all aspects of damp proofing and rising damp services all over Northern Ireland with no job too big or small for us to take on.

Our services include: • • • • • • • • • • •

All Plastering Work Carried Out Interior & Exterior Re-Skim Specialists Quantity & Quality a Speciality Full Public Liability Damp Proofing Rising Damp Control Tanking Dry Rot All Damp Proofing Work Undertaken Basement waterproofing membrane lining and tanking systems • Woodworm • Timber Preservation • Water Proofing

“

A highly reliable, highly punctual extremely experienced and very professional business.

”

Our reputation is built on customer service and quality workmanship as well as our professionalism. We aim to continue and improve the work that has earned us this reputation and will definitely provide you with the best service possible at a great price.

Our work speaks for itself, so if you need any more information about our work or any past jobs, please get in touch with us as soon as possible, there’s no need to put the work off any longer!

If you need any damp proofing or plastering work, then by all means contact us today.

Tel: 028 9187 3202 or 077 0619 9789

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hotproperty March2014