Able Estates - May 2019

May 2019

Property NEWS

Exploring the beautiful South of France Page 12

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Handy tips to help with your move

Transform your walls with wallpaper

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Page 6

Security options for your home

Page 10

Editor’s Letter Welcome to the May issue.

Summer is just around the corner and, generally considered to be the busiest time of the year for gardeners, preparing your garden for the warmer months is vital. So take a look inside to find out what you should be focusing on to get your garden summer ready!

Moving inside the home, if you’re thinking of updating your décor, we feature some of our favourite wallpaper trends that are sure to liven up your walls.

Also, inside this issue are our handy tips to help you with your move. Any move to a new home can be a stressful experience, but this is especially true when you are moving to a new area too. Take a look inside to see what you can do to make the transition smoother.

As ever, there is plenty inside this issue to keep you reading; from security tips to keep your home secure, to our travel guide to the South of France.

Until next time.

Linda McKeown Editor

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best garden HOW

TO PREPARE YOUR

THIS SUMMER

Summer is just around the corner and, generally considered to be the busiest time of the year for gardeners, preparing your garden for the warmer months is vital if you want to get the most out of it and make it shine!

Prepare the patio, outside furniture, flower beds and borders During winter, there probably wouldn’t have been much opportunity to sit outside or dine alfresco. So, at the very least, your patio or decking areas may need a sweep to eliminate loose leaves and foliage that may have gathered around your garden.

If you have any outside furniture, it would also be wise to tidy them up, especially if they had been moved into a more secluded spot during the colder months.

Another step in the right direction would be to give any paving stones a blast with a pressure washer to lift up any dirt or moss.

Make the most of water butts One of the most economical things you can do as a gardener is to install a water butt. Water butts collect large quantities of rainwater, which you can then use to water your lawn, plants and flowers, instead of using tap water.

Ensure your water butt collects rainwater as much as possible in advance of the summertime because if there’s ever any likelihood of no rain for long spells at a time, it will be during the summer season!

As well as water butts being essential for environmentally friendly gardening, rainfall also happens to be the best type of water for plants. This is because tap water is often slightly alkaline.

When positioning your water butt, it’s best to place it underneath a downpipe, to ensure as much rainwater gets collected as possible.

Clean and sharpen your tools Your gardening tools should be the backbone of your gardening duties.

Without them, you’re as defenceless as a garden enduring a summer’s heat with no rain for weeks on end! Just like a garden needs rain, love and attention, you, the gardener, need your tools. And you need them fully functional and able to do their job effectively.

Give your tools a thorough clean and sharpening to maintain their quality, especially since the most important season of the year for your garden is just around the corner! As well as helping you to avoid replacing them in the future, maintaining your tools can help prevent the spread of disease too. Dirty secateurs, for example, are notorious for introducing bacteria and fungi to fresh pruning wounds.

Clear away any dead leaves and rubbish from your flower beds and borders which have gathered over the previous months too. Tidy up your borders by trimming the edges and turn your soil to cultivate it and help plants thrive.

Eliminate weeds and pests Now, this is where your newly-cleaned and sharpened garden tools come into play! Weeding is one of those garden jobs which few gardeners relish. However, the results of doing so are plentiful, and it’s an essential part of maintaining your garden to a healthy and attractive standard (particularly those which grow from the cracks in between paving slabs, therefore ruining the appearance of your patio area).

Getting the weeding done before summer is crucial if you want to prevent weeds from stealing the nutrients from the soil that your plants sorely require.

Another requirement for any good garden is to make sure it’s free of pests, particularly since flower beds are all too often the victim of their detrimental trespassing! A good tip if you want to be environmentally friendly is to cover your flower beds with crushed egg shells, rather than using toxic pesticides. Doing so will help repel pests such as slugs, who love flower beds.

Best summerflowering bulbs to plant now

Oriental lilies.

There are numerous varieties available of this extravagant flower, with a broad range of colours and heights to choose from.

Note that the blossoms will become heavy once developed, so they will need extra support.

Crocosmia.

These tend to reach approximately three feet in height, and their sword-like foliage becomes bright green. Stalks of arching flowers extend above the leaves in the middle of summer, and the most common flower colours are red, orange, and yellow, depending on the variety.

Asiatic Lilies.

Unlike their Oriental cousins mentioned above, Asiatic lilies bloom sooner, are fragrance-free, and are brighter coloured. Their flowers are not typically as large as Oriental lilies and their stems are sturdier, so they don’t require 3 extra support.

TO A NEW AREA ...

Moving to a new house can be a stressful experience, especially when you are moving to a new area too. We’ve put together a few handy tips to help with your move

Get to know the area Relocating to a new area can be daunting, but if the move is well planned out in advance, the process can be much easier.

Before moving to your new home, if possible, it’s a good idea to spend some time exploring and getting to know the local area. Spend as much time as you can driving around local villages and towns.

Prepare a checklist of your essential facilities and then objectively look at what each place has to offer in terms of local amenities and find out what, if any, local clubs and organisations you can join. This is a great way to make new friends and really get to know your new surroundings.

If the move is well planned out in advance, the process can be much easier”

Also, spend time talking to those already living in your chosen location. Finding out from the locals where the best parks, pubs, and even the best take-aways are, can save you a lot of time researching and help you feel more at home.

If you are already a member of any national organisations, they will be able to put you in touch with similar groups in the new area and you will soon find others with the same interests.

If moving due to employment, it is advisable to investigate the best commuter routes to and from work.

Find out how long your daily journey will take and run tests around the same time you will be making the trip, as the same journey could take a lot longer at busier times of the day. Speaking to local residents could also give you information about alternative routes.

TALK TO US NOW ABOUT HOW WE CAN GET YOU MOVING!

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If moving with children, find out where the best schools and nurseries are located and what school catchment area your new home falls in. You can find the Ofsted reports for possible schools, nurseries, and childminders, on the local government website.

Organise a visit and taster days to potential schools, so that both you and the kids feel more prepared before the move.

unnecessary gifts and causing your guests expense, ask that they instead bring a card listing their three favourite things about the area. A fun way to make friends and to find out a little more about the place you now live!

Try and stick to the same routine as much as you possibly can, especially if you have children. Keeping to the same routine will help to make the transition go a little smoother and disrupt your normal day to day life a little less.

Get out and about Once the unpacking has been done, the house has been organised and you have introduced yourself to the neighbours, get out and about.

Settling into your new home Once you’ve taken the big leap and moved, it might take a little time to adjust to your new life and surroundings. However, there are many ways to make settling into your new home a little easier. If moving with children, it might be a good idea to sort out their rooms as soon as possible. Having familiar things around them will help them to settle into their new rooms better.

Unpack their favourite books and toys first to help distract them whilst the rest of the boxes are being unpacked. It is a good idea to ensure that these things are either put into the removal van last, so they will be taken off first, or are put in the car with them.

Host a housewarming party to get to know your new neighbours and other residents on your street!

You could also invite new work colleagues and parents you’ve met on the school playground.

People often feel obligated to bring something along, so instead of accepting

Explore the surrounding villages and towns, visit your local pub, nearest parks and play areas; this will help you (and your children if you have them) become much more familiar with the area.

Get involved with the local community too. Why not join local groups or activities, such as gym classes, book clubs or drama groups. You could also join the neighbourhood watch. The school your children attend might have groups or organisations you can get involved with, such as the PTA and after school clubs. Any group or organisation you can get involved with will massively help to integrate yourself into your new area.

If moving with children, find out where the best schools and nurseries are located and what school catchment area your new home falls in

But no matter how far the move is, it is always important to get out there and really embrace everything that your new surroundings have to offer. This might take a little while but be patient; you will start to feel at home in no time.

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Ipanema Heritage Wallpaper Go for a touch of the exotic with this line drawn design featuring toucans and lush, tropical foliage. £35 www.johnlewis.com

Apex Geometric Trellis Wallpaper Add a spectacular shine to your home with this funky geometric design in metallic silver with a stone background. Perfect to make a bold statement in your home. £7.99 www.worldofwallpaper.com

Lundby Wallpaper, Citrine Be inspired by the natural forests of Scandinavia with this simple, yet graphic, wallpaper. £25 www.johnlewis.com

WALLtoWALL Forget about simply painting those walls – add an instant splash of colour and design using wallpaper. Here we feature some of our favourite finds…

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All prices correct at time of going to print

Safari Kids Map Mural Wallpaper This sweet pastel toned world map is perfect for your little one’s nursery or bedroom, featuring illustrated animals from all over the world in a cute and educational style. £36 www.muralswallpaper.co.uk

This on trend wallpaper has a matt finish and multicoloured rainbow print design which repeats every 53cm.

Arthouse Scandi Triangle Wallpaper - Yellow A pretty geometric design of repeating triangle and diamond shapes in pale pastel colours.

£11.20 www.dunelm.com

£12.99 www.very.co.uk

Boutique Alice Duck egg blue Leaf Metallic effect Wallpaper Ideal for use in bedrooms, hallways and living areas, this beautiful wallpaper can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to remove marks caused by everyday life. Perfect!

Paste The Wall Hexagonal 3D Wallpaper Next’s Paste-The-Wall wallpaper uses a special backing paper, so the paper does not expand or contract when wet.

You can simply paste the wall, and hang the paper dry! We just love this design. £20 www.next.co.uk

Dunelm Rainbow Print Design White, Red, Pink and Blue Over The Wallpaper

£18 www.diy.com

Urban Walls Ripped Poster Wallpaper Hundreds of ripped posters come together to create this edgy wallpaper featuring bright hues and bold texts. £18 www.next.co.uk

Protect Your Home Your home is the most expensive thing you will ever own, so it makes sense to look after it and keep it secure. Here are our top security tips.

Between January and December 2018 there were 380,517 reported burglaries in the UK*. The impact of burglary is severe; taking 8 months* for the average person to feel secure again in their own home, and even then, less than half ever feel completely secure.

Security cameras are inexpensive and easy to install, with wireless and wired options available

For 1 in 10 people*, it can be a reason to move home. The trauma can be especially severe for children and can be carried on into adulthood.

Almost 40 per cent of adults, whose homes were broken into when they were younger, are still bothered by their experience*

So, what can you do to secure your home?

Outside Burglars don’t arrive with their own tools, they prefer to use tools they pick up from unlocked sheds, garages or side passages.

Keep your sheds and garages locked, and if you have a side passage, deadbolt and padlock it. You can stop would-be thieves from getting close to your garage or shed by installing motion activated lights. Once installed, these lights will turn on when they detect movement, stopping would-be burglars in their tracks. You can pick up single battery powered units for about £20 each or solar powered units for approx. £30 each.

Security cameras are inexpensive and easy to install, with wireless and wired options available.

The wireless options are popular but remember to check the battery regularly. As with TV’s, the higher the resolution the better the picture quality, so you will want something 1080p or above to get crystal clear images. You will also want to ensure that the camera has a good night-vision mode, offering 100ft of vision or more.

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Your home is the most expensive thing you will ever own, so it makes sense to look after it and keep it secure

Other top tips for keeping your home safe: »»

Keep your keyholes clear from dust; burglars can tell you don’t use your deadlock if it’s full of dust and debris.

»»

Don’t leave your keys in your door; burglars can poke through the keyhole, knock them down and use tools to pick them up from the floor through a letter-box.

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Save posting your holiday snaps to social media for when you are home; burglars monitoring social media can tell when a home has been left alone and it will make yours a target.

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Close windows in the evening and when you leave the house; open windows are an easy chance for an opportunist burglar.

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Change the locks. It may sound crazy but how do you know no one else has a set of your keys; what about the previous owner?

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Ask someone to remove the post and put your bins out while you are away, to give the impression of someone being home.

A car on your driveway will deter any potential burglars, as will appliances on timer switches. When you’re on holiday, why not ask your neighbour to park on your drive to deter burglars. You can set timer switches to come on at set certain times of the day. Lights are standard but won’t necessarily deter a burglar as much as if a TV or radio is on. Setting a timer to turn your TV or radio on when you’re out is a smart idea and is simple to set up using the built-in sleep timers found in the main menu of most smart TV’s.

Still leaving your keys under the front doormat? Burglars know the most common places where people leave their keys. Get an outdoor key lock-box mounted in a secure location, with a four-digit pin that only you and trusted friends or family know; or leave a spare key with your neighbours. This key will come in handy if you are away, as a letter-box full of post will be a sure sign to a burglar that you’re not in.

Inside If a burglar gets past your outdoor security, don’t let him get past your alarm system. Window and door sensors are musthaves to complete your home security. They are simple, yet effective. A switch and a magnet attach to the window frame and the pane of glass. If the window stays closed, the circuit is complete; when the window or door is opened, the circuit breaks which signals the control panel, triggering the alarm.

Most sets offer different modes, including; chime, silent and alarm mode and can send notifications to your smart device.

To complete your home security, you can now get smart systems which allow you to control your security from your phone. These systems connect to your Wi-Fi and, through an app, you can customise what happens when a window is broken, or motion is detected. Entry-level systems include door and window sensors, a motion detector and a hub. These systems are available as full set-ups or separate components which you can add on to build a bespoke system.

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Thanks to its array of transport links across the country and nearby towns, Nice is a great place to be if you want to explore the wider area

Ooh la la !

With the annual Cannes Film Festival just around the corner, we’ve explored the beauty of a holiday in the glorious South of France

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The South of France is an easy choice when deciding your next holiday destination. With a selection of different resorts and cities, the only hard decision you’ll have to make, is where in the South of France you want to go. Home to a region of rich culture, sun, sea, fine wine and food, the South of France can host your perfect getaway!

Cannes Famed for its annual film festival and glamourous celebrity lifestyle, Cannes is the superstar of the French Riviera.

Its dazzling promenade, golden sandy beaches and year-round Mediterranean climate create the perfect backdrop for a wonderful holiday. The famous Film Festival might take place each May, but Cannes is bustling all year long. The city, placed on France’s sparkling Riviera, has many fascinating cultural attractions as well as some great places where you can relax, indulge and watch how the other half live.

The Old Port of Cannes is an interesting mix of traditional charm and immense wealth.

It’s a great place to watch huge yachts arrive into town while having a drink in one of the bars that line the water’s edge. Like many of the towns in this region, Cannes is steeped in culture and history where you can enjoy museums, castles and churches.

Nice The grand city of Nice is where everyone thinks of when they think of the South of France. It is a grand city of long esplanades and spacious squares, it’s also the fifth largest city in France so you won’t be struggling to find things to do. Nice is home to a perfect beach life, a stunning medieval old town and some delicious French food! If you are looking for a relaxed holiday in the South of France, Nice is where you need to be!

Thanks to its array of transport links across the country and nearby towns, Nice is a great place if you want to explore the wider area, or even enjoy a day trip to Monaco.

Avignon Places like Avignon in the South of France are evidence that there’s much more than just beaches and film festivals in the South of France. Avignon is packed with history and fascinating architecture, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing. Pont d’Avignon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, whilst the Palais des Papes, art museums and gorgeous town squares are also popular places to visit

in this city. The River Rhone is one of the focal points of Avignon, and it has played a big part in the city’s history. There are companies who offer lunchtime and dinnertime cruises across the Rhone, letting you enjoy some fantastic views of the famous landmarks of Avignon.

Avignon was also home to Van Gogh, so art lovers can enjoy learning about the history of the famous artist.

Marseille Marseille is the undiscovered jewel in the crown of France’s Mediterranean coastline. The rocky hills of Provence look down onto the ancient port and the thousands of boats docked in its clear blue waters. Thanks to the new Eurostar South of France service, which launched a few years ago, you can get from London to Marseille in just a few hours.

Marseille is a city that is changing fast but has still retained that edge that makes it stand out from the rest of the towns along the French Riviera. It’s also a great base for exploring the azure blue Calanques, so why not hop on the train and make a holiday out of this great city.

France’s second city has all you could ask for; beautiful beaches, ancient buildings, thriving artists and a diverse and dynamic nightlife.

Things to do in the South of France For food and wine lovers, a trip to a local vineyard is a must.

Many vineyards offer tours of their vines followed by wine-tasting and a delicious lunch with French cuisine. A day trip to Monaco should also be on your list of things to do, whether you are travelling by boat, car or train, you can enjoy the stunning port with its array of high-end yachts. There are also lots of golf courses and local shops where you can stock up on gourmet cheese; however, the South of France can also accommodate kids too.

Thanks to its beautiful Mediterranean climate and fantastic French countryside, the whole family can enjoy serious adventures. There are plenty of cycle hire firms around the area, as well as Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum where you can get up close and personal with baby sharks. Placed near Montagnac is The Meze Dinosaur Museum which features scale replicas of the Jurassic creatures.

However, to top it all off, amongst the underground hiking, baby shark stroking, hot-air balloon rides, wine tasting and delicious food, there is nothing better than a day at the beach. The South of France offers a fantastic range of beaches to enjoy, with pristine white beaches and crystal clear water, all under a blue sky with lots of sunshine.

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ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Cricket fans across the world are looking forward to this year’s ICC Cricket World Cup which starts at the end of May and runs until July

As the hosts, England are one of the favourites to win the trophy this year

The ICC Cricket World Cup (CWC) takes place every four years, featuring ten teams and is the culmination of a global qualification process that runs over a five to six year period. The top eight teams in the ICC one-day rankings at the given date qualify automatically.

The final two teams come from the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier which takes place in the year prior to the Cricket World Cup. This year’s tournament runs from 30th May until the 14th July and will be joint hosted by England and Wales for only the second time in its history. The first two competitions were hosted by England back in 1975 and 1979. The first game of the tournament will take place at The Oval between England and South Africa, and the other venues include Trent Bridge in Nottingham, the Cardiff Stadium, Old Trafford in Manchester, The

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Rose Bowl in Southampton and Lords in London.

After a disappointing World Cup four years ago, England’s limitedover side have been working towards 2019’s competition in the hope of winning their first ever World Cup. With the Ashes taking place later in the year, England are hoping May will kick-start a successful year for the Cricket team.

The 2015 World Cup saw England crash out at the group stages after Bangladesh claimed a stunning 15run win. It was the third time in five World Cups England had gone out of the group stage.

As the hosts, England are one of the favourites to win the trophy this year and they are also Number 1 in the ICC ODI Rankings. There will be pressure on this England side, but with the backing of their home crowd, they feel they can go all the way.

After a successful ODI series against the West Indies, Adil Rashid may prove to be a key factor in an England side filled with an arsenal of batting talent including Eoin Morgan, Jos Butler, Joe Root and Ben Stokes.

The leg-spinner, Adil Rashid, was the highest wicket-taker against the West Indies for both sides, and many people will be hoping he will be crucial for his national side this year.

India are second in the ODI Rankings and feature a great bowling line-up with the likes of Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, as well as batsmen Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. New Zealand, South Africa and Australia all follow in the rankings and they will be competing in what looks to be an exciting summer of cricket across England and Wales.

The Homes

(Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 What is it and how does it affect you?

Karen Buck’s Homes Act 2018 is an Act to amend the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. It received Royal Assent on the 20th December 2018. But what does it actually mean?

The new Act requires that any property let by a landlord (private or social) is fit for human habitation when a tenancy is granted and remains so for its duration.

It extends to England and Wales, but its practical changes are only for England, as Wales has its own fitness-for-humanhabitation consultation.

or disrepair that has been caused by the tenants’ behaviour. A landlord is not obliged to rebuild a destroyed building or carry out works which are the responsibility of a superior landlord, or to maintain or repair anything which the tenant is entitled to remove from the property.

When does it come into force?

Can a landlord or third party inspect the property?

The Act came into force on the 20th March 2019, three months after being enacted and applies to new tenancies of less than seven years, including renewals of existing tenancies.

Okay, so what does ‘fit for human habitation’ mean?

A property NOT fit for human habitation is a property with a serious defect in one of the following areas: repair, stability, damp, internal arrangement, natural lighting, ventilation, water supply, drainage, facilities for cooking and the disposal of wastewater.

But what if I haven’t been told about any defects?

The landlord’s liability to the tenant will not start until the landlord has had notice of the defect, and the landlord has had a reasonable amount of time to rectify the unfitness.

What if the tenant has caused the defect?

The Act covers landlords too. It will not make them responsible for any damage

Yes, landlords will be able to get expert evidence from a surveyor if needed and, if notified that the property is unfit, will still have a reasonable period to put right the defects.

What could happen if a landlord is found guilty?

Landlords may be brought before the court, where a landlord may be ordered to carry out works, and damages awarded to the tenant. The court could make a finding of unfitness on simple non-expert advice, such as a lack of heating.

For responsible landlords, there should be nothing to worry about. However, it is yet to be seen if, like PPI claims, there will be an increase in cases against all landlords. Tenants will be able to claim legal aid and conditional ‘no win no fee’ agreements and as there is no definite guideline for when a court interprets a hazard to exist – and whether it is so defective that the property is unfit – it is a case of waiting to see if there is an increase in future cases.

The Act… applies to new tenancies of less than seven years, including renewals of existing tenancies

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Louise Hillier MARLA – Director of Property Management Lettings & Property Management came into my life by chance when I was 23. What started as a training course of 3 months, with a well-known corporate into a full-time job that was a huge learning curve. For many years I dealt with Lettings and after about 10 years was asked to transfer into Property Management. It’s unlike any job I have ever known, its challenging. no two days are ever the same, there are always new situations to overcome and the legislation is ever changing.

I have been in the industry for 22 years and will have been with Able Estates Ltd for 10 years in September 2019. I am a member of ARLA Propertymark with a Level 3 Award in Residential Letting and Property Management.

Pauline Barham – Property Management Administrator

I have been working in a sales and lettings environment for 24 years and currently work in the Property Management department of Able Estates in an administration role. I am responsible for generating any new tenancy agreements, ensuring all the relevant legal requirements have been met when making a tenancy live, negotiating renewals and rent increases, renewing the insurance policies for the Landlords, renewal of Gas Safety Certificates, EPC’s and electrical tests. It’s an incredibly busy roll that I continue to enjoy.

Charinna Batchelor – Maintenance Department I am pleased to be your first point of contact in connection with periodic visits, maintenance issues and check outs and since joining Able Estates I am now experienced in assisting Landlords with their selective licence queries following the change of legislation. It’s always interesting seeing the properties once the Tenant has moved in and to build relationships with the tenants which can help steer difficult situations to all party’s satisfaction. The Property Management office is very busy and team work is required in order to keep the wheels turning.

Danielle Freegard – Property Management Clerk The reason I have remained in the Lettings & Property Management industry since 2012 is because every day is different, it’s a challenge. My role at Able Estates involves visiting our existing tenants, carrying out check outs and finalising deposit releases. I am the newest to the team, but I bring many years of experience in various lettings, sales and commercial roles.

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Meet our team Ruth Wonnacott – Sales & Lettings Manager I have been with Able Estates for six years and in that time, have covered a multitude of roles from Secretary, Senior Sales Consultant, Sales Progressor and Senior Lettings Consultant, so have an all-round understanding of the estate agency world. I have a can-do attitude and enjoy the range of jobs that I undertake in any one day. Being able to help someone move into their dream house (sales or lettings) gives me job satisfaction and we work hard to provide an outstanding service and bring years of local knowledge to the market.

Peter Jones – Director Being an owner of an estate agency certainly throws at you its fair share of daily Challenges, though I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love the property game and get a kick out of exceeding the client’s expectations. It’s also a genuine thrill to hand over the keys to the new home of a buyer or tenant and be part of an exciting new adventure in their life’s. Outside of the property market I’m married to my beautiful wife Mandy, we have grown up twins who still keep us busy. I enjoy a golf, sailing and snowboarding plus have quite an eclectic taste in music.

Sue Emmott – Branch Secretary I have been working at Able Estates in the Abbey Wood Branch for almost 15 years now in the capacity of Branch Secretary. As well as my administration role, I also offer support to our Sales & Lettings Team where my duties are varied to say the least! My working life commenced with the Inland Revenue and has predominantly been in an administrative capacity ever since. I enjoy the variety that my job brings and challenges that I sometimes face and especially enjoy the rapport I have with my colleagues.

Edward Sharp – Property Consultant After committing to staying in England full time following an enjoyable and successful career in the travel industry my attention turned to what to do next. For some reason I decided a career in property would be a good choice – probably due to too much daytime TV! Luckily, I was able to find an agent in my hometown that shared my belief of doing business in the right way and two years down the road it feels like I’ve been doing it my whole working life. Although if I’m honest, I did think I’d have my own show by now!

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Maria Porter – Sales & Lettings Administrator I joined the company in August last year. I have 17 years’ Estate Agency experience where I have covered a variety of roles from administration, sales & lettings to sales progression. My main role here at Able Estates is sales progressor where I ensure the smooth transition of a sale once it has been agreed.

Paul Servis – Director At the tender age of 21 and really not knowing what to do in terms of a career and Life I guess I basically fell into Estate Agency by chance. As I absolutely love the property industry, in February 1997 after nine very successful working for a corporate, I opened the doors of Able Estates alongside my sister and best friend Peter Jones - the rest as they say is history.

There have been many changes both with legislation and thanks to the internet, how properties are marketed. However, one thing remains the same, Ables’ ethos – treat everybody how you would expect to be treated.

Chris Gorman – Lettings Consultant

I Joined The team Last year and have hit the lettings ground running! I bring with me over five years’ worth of Lettings experience along with 10 years of working within Sales and Customer Service industries. The skillset I have brought to the Able Estates Lettings department is one of guaranteed customer satisfaction, Hard work and I strive to make sure every rental is managed efficiently from start to finish.

Sarah Hamilton – Property Consultant Hi I’m Sarah and I’ve lived and worked in and around Greenwich and Bexley for most of my life. I was educated in Greenwich and have worked most of my estate agency career all over Southeast London and North Kent. I’ve worked both on the sales side and the lettings side and consider myself well versed to advise on all property matters. When not working my passions are Ska and reggae music and I follow many well known bands on the circuit.

I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else as I not only feel a valued team member, but also know the value I offer to my team and my clients.

Kevin Mitchell – Property Consultant

With over 35 years of sale experience I have been part of the Able Estates Team for over 4 years now. I pride myself on being a ‘people person’ providing our clients with an exceptional level of customer service. I am able to offer advice to help our customers realise the potential in property whether it be on purchase or rental. With great communication skills I build relationships with both Vendors and Landlords and try to negotiate the best deal for all parties involved in the transaction.

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Testimonials The level of service I received from Able Estates was unique and efficient.

Able Estates to me, differ, having spoken to other estate agents. I find them more family-orientated and friendly. I know that the house is in safe hands with Able Estates and they will do the very best that they can for myself and my family.

Able Estates have delivered impeccable service and that is of paramount importance to me.

They make the effort all the time; they keep me informed of what’s going on. If something needs to be asked, they’re on the phone and it’s dealt with straight away.

The photos looked absolutely great and the floor plans were perfect; I couldn’t fault them.

There was somebody to contact the whole time, and that is what you want went letting a property. I would certainly recommend Able Estates to family and friends I have always been recommending AE to family and friends; and I will continue recommending them.

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Shortlands Close, Belvedere £190,000

Woburn Close, Thamesmead Guide Price £200,000 - £210,000

Well presented one bedroom ground floor apartment to market. Situated on a peaceful close and conveniently located for Abbey Wood and Belvedere stations, parks, Lesnes abbey, shops and public transport. The generous accommodation comprises spacious lounge/diner, kitchen, double bedroom and modern bathroom.

Spacious two bed 2nd floor apartment, in a peaceful location convenient for public transport and schools. The generous accommodation boasts lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, family bathroom, a huge master bedroom as well as a second double bedroom. Further benefits from off street parking.

St Georges Close, Thamesmead £270,000

Morvale Close, Belvedere Guide Price £280,000 - £300,000

Two bedroom home with off street parking, conveniently located for schools, shops and public transport. The accommodation includes a spacious lounge/diner, kitchen, two bedrooms, family bathroom and ample storage. Benefiting from gas central heating, double glazing, tidy garden to rear and no chain.

Potential, potential, potential! There aren’t many three beds on the market at this price!

The generous accommodation consists of a spacious lounge/diner, kitchen, large master bedroom, a second double and a single bedroom, family bathroom and downstairs wc.

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South East London : 020 8306 2020 North Kent : 01322 400222 Lettings Management : 01322 405050

Paroma Road, Belvedere £289,950

Fendyke Road, Belvedere £360,000

Able Estates are delighted to bring this spacious three double bedroom period property to market. The generous accommodation also boasts two reception rooms, large kitchen/ diner, bathroom and cloakroom. Located just a short walk from Belvedere Railway Station, Shops, Schools and Parks.

Able Estates are delighted to introduce this

Glendale Way, Thamesmead £370,000

Blakemore Way, Belvedere £400,000

Refurbished to an extremely high standard throughout, is this four bedroom terraced town house boasting entrance porch, hallway, fully fitted modern kitchen/breakfast room, large `L` shaped lounge/diner, contemporary shower room, four bedrooms plus modern family bathroom.

Able Estates are delighted to bring this extended three bedroom detached property with downstairs cloakroom to market. Located on the popular priory gardens, within walking distance to Abbey Wood station, schools, Lessness Abbey, parks and shops.

three bed end of terrace house within a few hundred yards of Abbey Wood Station to market. Whilst the property is in need of modernisation, it already possesses all the necessary attributes for a fantastic investment opportunity.

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Finchale Road, Abbey Wood £169,995

Rochdale Road, Abbey Wood Offers in Excess of £400,000

Ground floor studio apartment. The property benefits security entry system, double glazing, gas central heating and the potential to convert to a one bedroom apartment. The accommodation boasts hallway (with ample storage), bathroom, kitchen and large lounge/ bedroom.

Able Estates are delighted to bring this well

McLeod Road, Abbey Wood £450,000

Longmarsh Lane, Thamesmead £179,995

Able Estates are delighted to bring this spacious corner plot three bed home to market. The generous accommodation includes two large reception rooms with period features, kitchen and conservatory. Located just a few minutes walk from Abbey Wood Station, schools, shops and woodland.

**PRICE REDUCTION -QUICK SALE NEEDED **Able Estates are delighted to bring this stunning one bed 1st floor apartment to market. The immaculate accommodation comprises lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, modern bathroom, double bedroom and ample storage. Benefitting from DG, allocated parking and security phone entrance system.

presented three bed family home with off street parking to market. Located on one of Abbey Wood`s most sought after streets and just a short walk to Bostall Woods, Bostall Gardens and Alexander Mcleod School.

nhsales@ableestates.com

South East London : 020 8306 2020 North Kent : 01322 400222 Lettings Management : 01322 405050

Whernside Close £800 pcm

Shortlands Close, Belvedere £850 pcm

One double bedroom first floor flat with off street parking and communal entrance.

The property has cooker, fridge/freezer and washing machine but otherwise unfurnished and available immediately. Cats will be accepted. Close to parks and local bus routes.

Early viewing is recommended on this well

Halifield Drive, Belvedere £975 pcm

Chancelot Road, Abbey Wood £1,150 pcm

Very well presented and recently decorated ground floor two bedroom apartment located walking distance to both Abbey Wood and Belvedere train stations. Accommodation comprises new kitchen and bathroom, one double bedroom and one single bedroom. Also benefits from very good size lounge.

Situated in a popular residential road is this very well presented two bedroom Victorian house located within walking distance to Abbey Wood Station, Shops, local Bus Routes and Schools. Benefiting from double glazing, gas central heating and rear garden.

Available end of March beginning of April (to be confirmed).

presented one bedroom first floor flat situated in a quiet development which is being offered unfurnished (fitted wardrobes in bedroom).

Close to Abbey Wood and Belvedere Stations and local shops. Parking.

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Frobisher Road, Erith £103,500

Browning Road, Crayford £115,000

Second Floor Studio Flat which is offered Chain Free and has approximately 68 years left on the lease. The property is within walking distance of Erith Town Centre Shops and Train station (zone 6) which can get you into the London Stations in 40 minutes.

CHAIN FREE 2nd Floor 1 Bed Flat in need of updating, situated approximately 10 minutes away from Dartford Town Centre, Shops and Train Station (zone 8) which will get you into Central London Stations within approximately 45 minutes. EPC RATING E.

Hamilton Walk, Erith £209,995

Hollyhill Road, Erith £229,995

Located within walking distance of Erith Town Centre and Train Station (zone 6) is this 1 Bed Freehold house. The property benefits from Allocated Parking and a Small Front Garden.

NB The property has a Lovely Brand-New kitchen with built in oven and hob.

Call to arrange your viewing of this 2 Bed Ground Floor maisonette that has a 151 Year Lease. The property has Double Glazing, Gas Central heating, 50 foot Rear Garden. It is also well located for Local Shops, Schools, Bus Routes and Erith Train Station.

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North Kent : 01322 400222 South East London : 020 8306 2020 Lettings Management : 01322 405050

Hurst Road, North Heath £280,000

Horsa Road, North Heath £299,995

Located in the heart of North Heath is this 3 Bedroom Terraced house that was built around 1909. The property is clean and tidy but does require complete updating and this has been reflected in the asking price. Ideally located for Shops, Schools and Public Transport.

CHAIN FREE - Located in the heart of Northumberland Heath is this 3 Bed Period Terrace House that was built Circa 1902 and is ideally located for all local amenities. Benefits include DG, Gas C Heating, 50-foot Garden plus Garage with rear vehicle access.

Brook Street, North Heath £300,000

Leycroft Gardens, Slade Green Guide price £310,000 - £320,000

Located in the heart of Northumberland Heath is this Chain Free 3 Bedroom Terraced House that is in need of some updating. The property is also conveniently located for all local amenities including Northumberland Heath Shops, Schools, Bus Routes and 2 Train Stations.

3 Bedroom Family house located in a popular cul de sac in Slade Green. Benefits to note include DOUBLE GLAZING, GAS CENTRAL HEATING, 25 Foot South Facing Garden with rear access plus En Bloc Garage.

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Mortimer Road, Erith £385,000

Park Crescent, Erith £380,000 - £400,000

1970’s built 3 Double Bedroom Semi detached Family house located in a sought after cul de sac close to the Lesney Park area. This property is in need of updating throughout and is within walking distance to Local Shops, Schools, Bus Routes and Erith Train Station.

Offers in excess of £400,000 will be considered for this rarely available CHAIN FREE 3 Bed DETACHED Property circa 1920 located within The Lesney Park conservation area. The property is conveniently located for schools, shops and amenities and is within walking distance of Erith Train Station.

Lesney Park Road, Erith £415,000

Avenue Road, Erith Guide Price £600 - £625,000

Wonderful opportunity to purchase this 1950 ‘s built 3 Bed Semi detached Family house that is located in the ‘Lesney Park Conservation area’. This property offers good size living accommodation plus Off-Street Parking, Garage, Double Glazing, Gas Central Heating and an established 200 Foot Garden.

No expense has been spared by the current sellers in making this 4 Bed Detached House a little bit special. The property also benefits from Off Street Parking for 2 Cars and Garage with electric door.

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North Kent : 01322 400222 South East London : 020 8306 2020 Lettings Management : 01322 405050

Kempton Close, Erith £750pcm

Elm Road, Slade Green £1,100pcm

Well presented one-bedroom ground floor flat, offered part furnished with cooker and washing machine. The property is in a quiet location in Northumberland Heath and is ideally placed for transport links and amenities.

Newly refurbished 2-bedroom property just a short walk from Slade Green train (zone 6) station and bus stops. The property is offered part furnished with integrated appliances and further benefits from GCH and has a 50ft Garden. Available Immediately.

Gertrude Road, Belvedere £1,000pcm

Northumberland Park, North Heath £1,200pcm

Located within walking distance of Belvedere Train Station is this 2 Bed Detached House that is available straight away subject to satisfactory checks and references. The property offers good size living accommodation and benefits from Double Glazing, Gas Central Heating (untested) 35 ft Garden.

Good sized 3 Bedroom Terrace Property located within easy reach of Northumberland Heath Recreational Ground, schools, local shops and amenities. The property also benefits from double glazing, gas central heating and courtyard garden. The property is offered unfurnished.

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