Welcome to our 2025 edition of “At Home”
2024 was a year of stops and starts, and no asset class likes uncertainty. Buyers and sellers held their breath when the election was called, and then again when the new Labour Government voiced their discovery of the £20bn “black hole”, which the Autumn budget addressed. And as soon as the outcome was known, so the market surged forward again.
At the time of writing, we enter 2025 crucially aware of how unsettled our world has become. Wars continue to rage with devastating consequences, and across the Atlantic, President Trump has secured a second term. We wait with bated breath to see how events will unfold, aware that unpredictable individuals in big jobs can dramatically influence the world stage.
Yet despite this backdrop, listings levels look set to hit a 10 year high this year, as sellers surge forward with their moving plans. Supply and demand is always a crucial factor in determining values, and accordingly, I think 2025 will continue to be a buyers’ market, with modest price growth. However, a property purchase is always about so much more than pure investment returns, and our beautiful town continues to be a draw for many, attracted to its extensive amenities, first class schooling, excellent transport links, stunning architecture (have you stood and really appreciated The Pantiles recently?!) and plentiful green spaces.
We are always delighted to do all we can to support the amazing community in which we live, and last year we raised money for local charities such as The Pickering Cancer Centre and Taylor Made Dreams, whilst also continuing to be a drop in centre for the Mayor’s Toy Appeal and sponsoring The Literary Festival and the Christmas production of The Fearless Fox. This year, each staff member has nominated a cause close to their heart and each will have a day of paid leave to support their chosen charity.
2025 will undoubtedly be another year of change, but with our trusted and amazing team behind us, we know that our sellers, buyers, landlords and tenants, are in very safe hands. We look forward to welcoming you, home.
DEBORAH RICHARDS Managing Partner
ADDRESS
01892 514100 info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk
Partner
Within this issue...
Properties
The finest properties currently available via Maddisons Residential.
At Home with BoConcept
BoConcept celebrates the art of living Danishly with Helena Christensen.
Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain
Come and discover the best of British food with Tom Kerridge.
JAMES RICHARDS
Deborah Richards Managing Partner
One of the biggest compliments that anyone ever pays me, is when they tell me I am not like a typical estate agent. Maybe that is because my career did not take the usual estate agency route. Indeed I started off my working life in banking, working for large brands such as Barclays and Coutts. Time raced quickly, and so, when at the age of 40 I realised I had let many years drift in an industry that I had only ever joined from university because I did not know what else to do, it was time to make a change.
My passion had always been property: I was a serial renovator, loving the process of turning tired and sad properties into much loved and desirable homes, and long before the advent of property programmes such as Property Ladder, and Location, Location, Location. But equally, throughout all my banking roles, I had loved the most those that involved helping people. Feeling a new career in estate agency beckon, I did not want to join an established agent to “learn the ropes”. My past experiences had fluctuated from bad to mediocre, and so I did not want to become tarnished with a sense of “how things were done”. Instead, I wanted to do things differently, and do them better. Combine my many years of delivering a first class customer service, with proactive, honest, caring advice on how to achieve a client’s home moving dreams ... and Maddisons was borne.
Those early days saw me taking a huge sheet of paper and brain-storming all the areas that had niggled or annoyed me whenever I had been transacting with an agent. The list is probably not surprising: a lack of communication, not feeling like my property sale was valued once I had signed on the dotted line, never receiving honest advice on
what was holding my property sale back, buying into the valuer who saw my property first, and then never hearing from them again as my sale was passed to randoms in the office, and so on and so on. My agency would address all of these concerns, and more. I would build an agency that ultimately cared deeply and passionately about doing the job right, being effective, and in a way that made our clients truly delighted with the service they had received.
The early years were tough. I fought for every scrap of potential business that was thrown my way. Gradually though, our reputation of being the agent that you went to when things went wrong, saw our presence in the town grow. 12 years later, I never take for granted the agency that Maddisons has now become. Through hard work, determination, and unwavering sense of doing the right thing, the Maddisons’ team has achieved amazing results. We are now one of the most dominant agents in the town (and there are over 30!), we have a clutch of awards and accolades and consistent 5 star Google reviews, and continue to win most of our business from recommendation and returning clients.
In any market, a good agent will always add value, but in truth, my preference is a tough market. I have grown a business in predominately challenging conditions, and the joy of making a difference in people’s property journey is what keeps me loving the intense, fraught, thrilling, exciting industry that I entered 12 years ago. I refuse to bend to the usual mould of estate agency, and still strive to do things better. This magazine celebrates a similar ethos from all of our supporters. For all of us, quite simply, as our strapline states, “Excellence is not a skill set. It’s an attitude”.
Meet the rest of the Maddisons Team
Karen Galpin Sales Director
Karen joined Maddisons in 2022, having worked at a senior level in Estate Agency for over 20 years in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding villages. Her local market knowledge and experience is second to none and she is passionate about providing the best possible service which is, of course, entirely in line with the Maddisons offering. When not working, Karen enjoys spending time in the local countryside with her husband and step children, working on their allotment, as well as eating out, cooking and entertaining and going to live music gigs whenever possible. Karen also enjoys horse riding and is keen to get back into dancing tango.
Lora Grogan
Property Marketing Coordinator
Lora joined Maddisons in 2024 and brought with her a genuine interest in people and property. Her background in family law has given her a wealth of experience in managing client expectations, navigating tricky conversations and balancing a heavy workload - all essential skills in the world of residential property! She lives with her husband and daughter in Southborough and when she is not working, she enjoys travelling and going to the theatre, but can most commonly be found at the gym or driving her daughter around as a fully fledged “dance mum”!
Sasha Foot
Property Marketing Coordinator
Sasha joined Maddisons in 2025, and brought with her a wealth of estate agency experience, having worked in the industry for almost 35 years. She has always chosen to work for independent agents, starting her career in outer London, before moving to the regions, and we are delighted that she is now part of the Maddisons’ team. Sasha is a lovely calm influence in the office, with excellent communication skills and a cool head under pressure. Her family is a fun mix of nature and tech—her two grown up children work together for a tree surgeon, while her husband keeps them connected from his world in IT. It’s a blend of muddy boots and keyboard clicks, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Milly
Stedman Sales Progression Manager
Milly grew up in London before moving to Tunbridge Wells in 2015, joining Maddisons in 2016 after several years working as a PA for a multi-national events company. Milly works closely with Deborah, bringing our new properties to market at the beginning of the process and overseeing the steps needed to move a sale from offer to exchange and completion once an offer has been negotiated and accepted - her strong organisational skills are essential. Milly is a hugely talented artist, specialising in painting murals in children’s rooms and loves to spend quality family time with her husband and two young children.
Jane Lewis
Sales Progression Manager
Jane joined Maddisons in 2017, after an illustrious career in retail buying. Jane is an integral member of the team and works with Karen, bringing our new properties to market at the beginning of the process and overseeing the steps needed to move a sale from offer to exchange and completion once an offer has been negotiated and accepted. Jane is incredibly efficient and calm - just what we need as it can get a little hectic at times! Jane is married with two sons and in her spare time she plays tennis, skis and enjoys socialising with friends and family.
Jill Westoby Property Manager and Lettings Coordinator
Joining Maddisons in 2025, Jill worked in London in design consultancy and for several years, locally, as a studio manager for a leading interior design business. Her experience in client facing roles, managing expectations and running multiple tasks simultaneously serves her well in her role within our Lettings Team where she arranges our new tenancies and is the contact for property management issues. Jill lives in Tunbridge Wells with her husband and two sons and enjoys travelling and skiing.
Jane Whalley Lettings Administrator
Having worked in various busy and rewarding administrative roles, Jane has several years of lettings specific administration under her belt. Joining Maddisons in 2024, Jane works closely with James and Jill and is responsible for undertaking property inspections for our landlords, ensuring that our tenants are happy and safe in their homes, managing any maintenance issues that may arise. In her spare time, Jane can be found walking the family Labrador or at the stables with her ponymad daughter!
Vicky Monaghan
Client Partner
Vicky worked for over 15 years in London in B2B events, followed by a number of years working as a personal stylist. She joined Maddisons in 2020 and enjoys meeting buyers at viewings and sellers at market appraisals. Having moved to Tunbridge Wells from London in 2006, Vicky enjoys spending her free time with her husband, two teenage sons, as well as her extended family and friends. Eating out and enjoying the fabulous countryside on our doorstep are particular favourites!
Lisa Lidgey
Client Partner
Lisa joined Maddisons in 2022 having moved with her husband and 2 young sons from London to Tunbridge Wells in 2021. Originally from a Nordic background, Lisa has a passion for people, cultures and interiors. With 15 years in global marketing, she is keen now to showcase the best in our sellers’ homes, providing styling advice as well as conducting viewings. In her spare time, she loves exploring the Kent and Sussex coast, Zumba dancing, reading and absorbing anything to do with interior design, cooking and socialising.
Muge Turner Client Partner
Muge moved from her home country of Turkey to the UK in 2013 and moved from London to Tunbridge Wells in 2015. Her experience of working closely with people within the events and the hospitality industry enables her to understand and manage expectations and develop relationships with clients. Muge has always been passionate about property and interiors and is delighted now to be working in the industry. She prides herself on her friendly, professional client service and when not working can often be found in local parks, walking her beloved Labrador, Berry, with her husband and their daughter.
Sinead McCurry Client Partner
Sinead grew up in Belfast and spent many years utilising her French and Business Degree, living and working in France and then Bulgaria. She has happily lived in Tunbridge Wells for 17 years and is married with twin boys. Sinead has been with Maddisons since 2020 and brings detailed knowledge of the local area which is very useful at viewings for people new to the area. Friendly and helpful, Sinead loves meeting new people, hearing their stories and matching them to fabulous properties.
Kate Girling Client Partner
Kate moved from London to Tunbridge Wells in 2014 with her two young children and joined Maddisons in 2025. With a background in the media industry, Kate specializes in organizing client-facing events, cultivating relationships, and delivering memorable experiences. She possesses detailed knowledge of the area, the education system within Tunbridge Wells
High level of expertise.
“I don’t normally leave Google reviews but Maddisons Estate Agents have been amazing. From start to finish, the whole process has been so easy. Deborah and her team made selling our home so stress free. Weekly updates always arrived in our mailbox on Friday afternoon so you knew what was happening in the chain up until completion. Thank you Deborah, Milly and team at Maddisons.” - Alison C (Seller)
Seamless service.
“I was a tenant with Maddisons for 18 months and only have good things to say about them. From the initial viewing through to the final check out, they were nothing but professional, polite and easy to deal with. Throughout my tenancy they were responsive, helpful and reliable, and there was always someone available to reply to my (many) questions. I’ve rented from other agencies before but had never experienced the level of care that Maddisons provided. I’d recommend them to any prospective tenant, and if I were to rent again in the future, I would look to go with them” - Rachel H (Tenant)
Fantastic service, highly recommended.
“What stood out most was the balance of warmth and efficiency - they made a potentially stressful process feel smooth and well-managed. I’d happily recommend Maddisons to anyone looking to buy or sell in the area. Thank you again for your excellent service.” - Tony T (Seller)
Magical Maddisons.
“Deborah and her team were amazing from day one, with their highly personal service, honest feedback about our property and experienced guidance on marketing and pricing. Not only did they achieve a successful sale (unlike our previous estate agents), but they provided great communications throughout, introduced us to helpful partners (for removals, storage etc.) and even provided tips for our onward search for another property. A five star service deserves a five star review!” - Ashley D (Seller)
Friendly great service...
“My husband and I purchased our beautiful home through Maddisons last month. All the way along Maddisons were a delight to deal with, not something I had ever expected to say about an estate agent – especially when being the purchaser! They were competent at keeping the deal moving at a good rate and sent all parties a copy of the progress report each Friday. They also sent us a useful check list for moving from my own flat that I sold. Something I certainly didn’t have from my own estate agents! I would very much recommend Maddisons as an estate agent and I fail to see how they could have acted any better.” - Caroline F (Buyer)
Simply the best.
“This is my third experience of working with Maddisons Residential and they are consistently efficient and professional. More than this, they bring a friendly personal approach to their work. Deborah’s knowledge of the market is exceptional and she has always advised us well, in addition to being able to facilitate things to ensure we were able to secure the house we wanted and sell ours quickly. Where she comes into her own though is when inevitable bumps appear on the road - she can swiftly work with all parties to ensure the process progresses smoothly. Would not hesitate to recommend.” - Tamara B (Buyer & Seller)
Responsive and connected.
“Maddisons Residential have been a great asset to me for the management of my property. James and his team have a huge amount of knowledge and lots of great contacts in and around Tunbridge wells, which makes any work or checks that need to be completed easy and quick. They are very quick to reply to any of my questions and have a very personal feel when speaking with them. I’d highly recommend them as a company to use.” - Pippa C (Landlord)
Our London Presence
How we reach ‘The London Buyer’ is a question we are often asked. Statistically, we sell as many properties to ‘The London Buyer’ as our larger corporate friends in the town as the majority of buyers registered with us recognise the value of our expert, local knowledge and the quality of our instructions.
Furthermore, they search for their dream home just like any other buyer, turning to the dominant property portals such as Rightmove, On The Market and Zoopla, on which we advertise all our properties.
However, in order to ensure we are reaching the small, but relevant percentage of buyers who have yet to consider a move to our lovely area and register with local agents directly, we are affiliated with Mayfair Office. This provides:
• National and international presence through a network of over 320 independent Estate Agents in the UK and a further 150 offices worldwide in which to advertise our client’s properties, as well as in the Mayfair Office itself.
• Unrivalled PR and national advertising opportunities at a significantly discounted rate in publications such as The Times, The Telegraph, The Evening Standard and County Life.
Guiding you in the right direction
Our National Presence
Established in 1994, RAN is now one of the most trusted names in property sales and new home purchase services, connecting buyers and sellers with over 650 uniquely qualified, carefully selected, independent and marketleading Estate Agents.
RAN’s strict criteria for appointing agents ensures that only the best agents are part of the Network. The stringent selection process includes an in depth analysis of an agent’s experience, market knowledge and presence, as well as their customer service and feedback.
This ensures that RAN’s selected agents are completely trusted to handle the complex and demanding requirements of individual buyers and sellers, corporate clients and blue chip relocation clients.
For sellers, each RAN member agent works with fellow member agents to help relocating families move across the UK. RAN members have access to buyers who are moving into towns and cities nationwide - giving the seller an additional channel to sell or rent their home.
For buyers, the local RAN member agent will introduce them to a RAN member affiliate in the buyer’s destination location, who can then help them understand the area they plan to move to.
Our membership with RAN is yet another reason to choose Maddisons Residential as a seller, or indeed as a buyer.
Put simply, we have a nationwide presence that challenges and exceeds the corporate agents.
For its spring campaign, BoConcept celebrates the art of living Danishly with globally renowned Danish supermodel, photographer and UN Ambassador Helena Christensen.
What does it mean to live well? This is the central question Danish design sets out to solve with its functional, timeless pieces, elegantly crafted to enhance the flow – and feeling – of a home. The art to Danish living has much to thank for its extraordinary design tradition but it’s also the less-is-more lifestyle, purposeful rituals and cultural values that consistently keep this small but mighty country topping the ‘happiest nation’ leagues.
With this in mind, Helena Christensen, BoConcept’s newly appointed Global Artistic Director, is at the helm of a new campaign – and era – for the interiors brand, focusing her lens on what it means to “Live Danish”. This is a celebration of the innovative design, creative culture and balanced way of life her home nation is known and lauded for.
Rodmell Road, Tunbridge Wells
Village
GUIDE PRICE £1,850,000
3 5 3
Coming to the market for the first time in almost 25 years is this wonderful family home, situated in a premium location, being in the heart of the village area of Tunbridge Wells, just off from Warwick Park on the section of Rodmell Road that leads into Madeira Park. Its enviable location sees it nestled at the end of a private drive, in a generous plot of one-third of an acre, which includes a large gravel driveway to the front, and beautiful landscaped grounds to the rear, flanked with mature trees. The spacious accommodation includes a dine in kitchen, two separate additional reception rooms, plus a cinema room.
EPC: C
Mount Sion, Tunbridge Wells
3 2
This delightful home is situated on Mount Sion, a beautiful road set in the heart of Tunbridge Wells and popular due to its beautiful architecture and close proximity to the High Street, The Pantiles and the mainline station. Despite being attached, the house has a wonderfully secluded feel, being accessed from Cumberland Yard, with views up Mount Sion and with its own private access onto the secluded courtyard garden. The accommodation internally is very spacious, with well-proportioned rooms, all beautifully presented and with a wealth of period features intact. There is allocated offroad parking – a real bonus in such a central position.
EPC: N/A - Grade II Listed
Whybourne Crest, Tunbridge Wells
SUCCESS STORIES
Previously listed with another agent, this beautiful home had attracted a huge number of viewings, but sadly no, or only very low, offers. Its position on a busy road and largely empty interior made it difficult for buyers to see its full potential. When we took over the listing, we honestly and openly discussed why we felt the property had not found its buyer, recommending professional staging to transform the property from an empty shell into a warm, inviting home.
The clients trusted our expertise and followed our advice and the results were immediate. Once fully dressed, the property’s spacious layout and natural light became key selling features, allowing buyers
to emotionally connect with the space. Staging highlighted how each room could be lived in, drawing attention away from the exterior and focusing on the lifestyle that the home could offer.
The transformation changed everything. Viewings increased significantly, and buyers responded positively to the presentation. The property now stood out as not only attractive but also as excellent value for money. Within a short time, we received multiple offers, creating healthy competition and a successful outcome for our clients. This case demonstrated the power of presentation — and how the right strategy can turn a difficult listing into a desirable home.
The Village
Positioned just in and around the High Street, this highly desirable neighbourhood has a fully cross generational demographic, appealing to commuters, families and retirees alike, thanks to its proximity to the station, parks and Claremont Primary School as well as all of the amenities of the town. Its architecture features some of the most beautiful Georgian and Victorian buildings you will ever find and combined with popular parks results in some of the highest prices per square foot in the town.
Nevill Park/ Hungershall Park
Recently voted as the two most expensive and prestigious roads to live on in the town, these two quiet roads are perfect for people who have a generous budget and want a close proximity to the town, combined with a semi-rural outlook. Some of the original early Victorian houses have been converted into large and spacious flats, whilst there are still some highly impressive single residences enjoying far reaching, open-countryside views.
The South of the Town
This incredibly desirable part of Tunbridge Wells incapsulates popular roads that border “the village” and run to the southerly edge of the town. Warwick Park, Frant Road, Broadwater Down and Farmcombe Road, to name but a few, are renowned for their spacious family homes, tree lined aspects and generous plots, whilst still being all within walking distance of The Pantiles and the High Street, and the stunning Nevill Cricket Ground that sits at its heart.
St James/Camden Road
This popular residential area sits to the east of the town and is typified by large early Victorian villas, Victorian semi-detached properties and a large 1960’s development, offering excellent value for money. Its proximity to excellent primary schooling and the secondary grammar system, mean that it is very popular with families and commuters. Camden Road has developed a very strong identity and is typified by independent retailers and cafés.
Above: Southborough Common Below: Dunorlan Park
Above: Box above the Village
St Johns
Popular with families thanks to St Johns Primary School and numerous secondary schools, including the coveted grammar schools, this neighbourhood is well positioned for access to the A21 and High Brooms train station. Popular mini supermarkets sit comfortably with small independent shops and access to the town centre is easily achievable by foot, car or bus. Green spaces are in plentiful supply with both woodland and parkland.
Culverden Down
A residential area of Tunbridge Wells sitting to the west of the town centre, typified by large, picturesque, Edwardian properties, many of which remain as single dwellings. Its easy access to the renowned grammar schools make it very popular with families of older children, whilst commuters still find that the station is within walking distance.
Southborough
A busy neighbourhood with a healthy combination of independent shops and restaurants. Southborough is home to a popular primary school and is also within close proximity of the secondary schools in nearby St Johns. It is seen as a great choice for anyone needing to travel, due to its easy access to Tonbridge mainline station and the A21. The Common at Southborough is popular for cricket and the woods great for dog walking.
Hawkenbury
Sitting to the south of the town, this densely residential area is typified by Victorian semi-detached properties and later 1960’s additions. Its proximity to St Peters CEP school make it very popular with families, and the large Berkeley Homes development, on which the school has now moved to, will ensure that it remains so for many years to come.
Langton Green
Located just outside Tunbridge Wells, to the west of the town, Langton Green is a pretty village with a thriving community, all centred around the village green and popular local pub – The Hare. The village is also served by several small independent shops and restaurants, including a very good Indian restaurant, Blue India. The village is popular with families and Langton Green Primary School is a very well regarded school. Rusthall with its more extensive amenities is in close proximity, and Tunbridge Wells itself is a short drive away.
Above: The Pantiles Below: Toad Rock, Rusthall
Above: The Parks
Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain
Come and discover the best of British food with Tom Kerridge.
Wherever you are in Britain, you'll find amazing people producing beautiful fruit and veg and some of the best meat and dairy in the world. British food is constantly changing through the seasons and we have so much unbeatable produce grown here, right on our doorsteps.
From freshly-picked peas to beautifully rich mackerel, sharp cheddar to flavoursome lamb – it’s time to celebrate how great British produce really is.
Tom has created recipes that showcase the very best of British ingredients, using simple techniques and bold flavours to bring out their unique qualities. Each recipe is built around a hero ingredient, showing how fresh, seasonal ingredients can take a dish to a whole new level.
Stand-out recipes include: Roast tomatoes with whipped feta and flat-breads; Charred hispi cabbage with sourdough crumb; Dover sole with brown butter and capers; Barbecued pork tomahawk steak; Sticky sesame chicken wings; Leek and Caerphilly rarebit; Poached rhubarb with crumble and vanilla custard; Strawberry and elderflower trifle.
Cook, eat and enjoy recipes that celebrate the best of British.
Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain by Tom Kerridge Extract taken from Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain by Tom Kerridge (Bloomsbury Absolute, £25 Hardback) Photography © Cristian Barnett
Crab cakes
We get succulent fresh crab from Cornwall and Orkney, but store-bought picked crab meat is a convenient way to enjoy this tasty shellfish. I add smoked paprika to these easy crab cakes, which lends a distinctive flavour not often used with seafood. The accompanying mayo - flavoured with fragrant dill, sharp lemon and salty capers - is a lovely foil.
Makes 12
400g cod fillet, skin removed and pin-boned
1 large free-range egg white
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
1/4 tsp white pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
200g white crab meat
1 tbsp finely chopped chives
1 tbsp roughly chopped dill
50g panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, to fry
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Cut the cod into large chunks and place in a small food processor. Add the egg white, mustard, lemon zest, white pepper and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth.
Transfer the fish mixture to a bowl. Add the crab meat and chopped herbs with a good pinch of salt and fold through until the mixture is well combined.
Tip the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl. Wet your hands with a little water (to avoid sticking) then divide the fish mixture into 12 even-sized pieces and shape into patties.
Place each patty in the breadcrumbs and turn to coat well on both sides. Place these crab cakes on a tray in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up.
Meanwhile, for the caper mayonnaise, put all the ingredients into a small bowl and mix well, seasoning with a little salt and pepper.
Heat about a 1cm depth of oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat. When it is hot, carefully add the crab cakes and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and drain on a tray lined with kitchen paper.
Season the crab cakes with a little salt and serve them on individual plates with a dollop of caper mayonnaise and a lemon wedge.
Richmond Place, Tunbridge Wells
This most desirable four bedroom property is located in a highly regarded development in central Tunbridge Wells, situated just off from the coveted Warwick Park. The house has been stylishly decorated throughout and offers just under 1,700 sq. ft. of elegant living accommodation arranged over three floors. With one of the larger gardens on the development and a tucked away location, this home has so much to offer its new owners.
C
Leigh Green, Groombridge
SUCCESS STORIES
This special property came to market for the first time in over 50 years, making it an incredibly emotional sale for the owner and his family. Sensitivity and care were essential throughout, as the home held a lifetime of memories. Set in a truly breath-taking location, the house had undeniable charm, but its unique layout and modest proportions proved challenging for many buyers. While viewings were frequent, feedback often pointed to the accommodation being too small or with the wrong flow.
Then, the perfect buyer appeared — a kind, thoughtful gentleman with a very particular wish list that this house happened to tick completely. He instantly
connected with the setting, the character, and the feel of the home. It was clear that he was the right match: someone who would appreciate and respect the home just as the current owner had for decades.
The conveyancing process, however, wasn’t straightforward. Several legal quirks emerged, causing understandable concern. But knowing the buyer’s commitment and genuine love for the property, we reassured the seller and helped both sides navigate the bumps calmly and with patience. In the end, the home passed from one careful custodian to another — a truly fitting next chapter for such a cherished place.
Fordcombe, Kent
SUCCESS STORIES
This beautiful Grade II Listed home in the heart of the popular village of Fordcombe presented a unique challenge. The owners had converted the barn next door for their own use, meaning any buyer would need to be comfortable living next to the previous owners. From the outset, we knew this house would require a very particular buyer: someone who not only appreciated the charm and heritage of a listed property but who also understood the responsibility that comes with owning one.
Early feedback highlighted confusion about the garden boundaries, which raised concerns for prospective
buyers. We advised the owners to install a hedge and fence to clearly define the plot and provide reassurance. They took our recommendation on board, and the effect was immediate — buyers could now visualise the property as their own.
Eventually, the perfect buyers came along. They adored the house and completely embraced its quirks and character. Importantly, they also recognised that owning a home like this is more than a purchase — it’s about being a custodian for the next chapter. Best of all, they were warm, thoughtful people who would make ideal neighbours — a happy ending all round.
Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells
GUIDE PRICE £1,435,000
3 4 2 The Town Centre
This unique, strikingly different, architecturally designed, lightfilled property embraces a contemporary Scandinavian influence, blending modern elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Predominantly arranged for single-storey living, the clever design maximises the charming garden views and southerly orientation, whilst connecting all of the main living accommodations with a light filled corridor, which forms a fabulous connection between the interior and exterior spaces. Externally it has a range of outbuildings, a carport and garage, and a generous driveway, all set in a gated plot of c. 0.4 of an acre.
EPC: C
If you would like more information on advertising your company within our in-house magazine please contact our Sales Consultant:
Simon Tapsell
Telephone: 01223 874483
Email: simon@tbcpublishing.co.uk
Rustwick, Rusthall
SUCCESS STORIES
This was undoubtedly one of our favourite sales of last year — not just because of the outcome, but because of the wonderful people involved on both sides. The property itself had a unique charm, full of character and warmth, but what truly made it special was the extraordinary garden. Lovingly nurtured by the owners, it had become a sanctuary for wildlife: home to birds, hedgehogs, and countless other species.
While achieving a strong price was of course important, the sellers were equally focused on finding a buyer who would appreciate and preserve the natural haven they had created. With this in mind, we took a
strategic approach: pricing the property competitively to encourage interest and allow for choice. This worked exactly as planned — multiple buyers came forward, allowing the sellers the rare opportunity to make a decision based not just on the number offered, but the profile of the buyers.
In the end, the home was sold to a truly lovely couple who were not only thrilled by the house but were also deeply passionate about wildlife and sustainability. The sellers were overjoyed, knowing their legacy would be protected, and we were proud to have played a part in such a heartfelt, meaningful sale.
Hetton Lodge, Tunbridge Wells
Set back from the road and accessed via a gravelled drive, this beautiful apartment forms the entire ground floor of a large and attractive Victorian property, comprising of just four flats. The twobedroom property has been beautifully renovated by the current owner and accordingly is presented in first class condition. The accommodation is extremely spacious and well-proportioned, with many period features retained throughout, which have been very successfully combined with contemporary styling. It also benefits from a thoughtfully landscaped private garden, allocated parking for two cars, further use of the communal grounds, and no onward chain. EPC: D
Eridge Road, Groombridge
2 4 2
This beautifully presented, four-bedroom semi-detached Victorian house is situated on the rural periphery of Groombridge village on the historic border between the Goldsmith’s and Eridge estates. This property offers a unique blend of rural charm, character and modern living, having been the subject of extensive improvement works by the current owners. The house enjoys stunning views over farmland to the rear and is adjacent to Birchden Woods, offering lovely rural walks with a footpath through farmland leading directly to the local primary school.
C
Molyneux Park, Tunbridge Wells
SUCCESS STORIES
This sale involved a much-loved home that had been inherited, and several beneficiaries were involved in the process. Each had varying priorities — for some, achieving the best possible price was key, while for others, a swift sale was more important. Navigating these different objectives with care and diplomacy was essential from the outset.
The property itself was full of charm and offered exciting potential as a renovation project, which naturally influenced the valuation. However, slightly unexpectedly, the garden posed the biggest challenge. Built on an incline, it featured two terraces connected by steep steps — and most buyers saw the cost of landscaping as a major obstacle.
We knew that to secure a buyer, we’d need to address this. During the marketing campaign, lengthy and thoughtful negotiations took place among the beneficiaries to agree a strategy. Two price reductions followed — carefully considered and agreed upon by all — each reflecting the feedback we were receiving and the anticipated cost of garden works.
Eventually, the revised pricing struck the right balance. The perfect buyer emerged: someone with the vision and enthusiasm to renovate the house and create a garden to match. It was a sale built on patience, teamwork, and smart decision-making.
