October 2019
Monthly
Magazine
Get cosy Warm up your home using colour PAGE 4
INSIDE THIS ISSUE How to enjoy firework celebrations - safely
Prepare your home for autumn
PAGE 6
PAGE 8
Spooktacular things to do with the kids
PAGE 12
Editor’s letter Welcome to the October issue! The clocks are set to change this month which can only mean one thing – the colder weather is on its way! But fear not; inside this issue is lots of advice to help ensure your property doesn’t fall foul of the cold weather. Now is the time to focus on preparing your home and garden against the elements. Doing so will ensure you don’t get any nasty surprises, such as burst pipes, or the death of your favourite garden plants you’ve lovingly tended to over the summer.
Prepare your property for colder weather Autumn is here; the leaves are falling and it’s getting colder. Here are some handy tips for preparing your home for the colder months
And as the dark nights draw in, it’s also time to start planning for the seasonal events coming up on the calendar; Halloween and Bonfire night! To get you inspired, inside we feature a winter-warming recipe, perfect for either event. And if you’re looking for something frightfully good to do to celebrate Halloween, our travel pages feature enough spooky events around the country to help you plan spooktacular fun! We hope you enjoy reading this issue and we look forward to sharing more property-related and lifestyle articles with you next time. Enjoy! Linda McKeown Editor
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By turning your central heating back on now, you will be made aware of any issues with your heating before the cold weather really hits
You can lose as much as 30% of heating through seals and gaps in your loft
Boilers and radiators With the changeable weather over the summer, you will have probably turned your boiler on earlier than normal, only to turn it back off again with the warmer weather returning in September. If, however, you haven’t turned it on again, now is the time. By turning your central heating back on now, you will be made aware of any issues with your heating before the cold weather really hits. It may be wise to get your boiler professionally serviced to check for any problems that may appear further down the line. An engineer will identify problems with your thermostat that you may not be aware of. Your radiators may have had a build-up of sludge over the summer months – an engineer will flush through the dirty water and replace it with clean water ready for the harsher winter months; helping to ensure you never have to go without heating.
Draughts The last thing you need is pesky draughts letting cold air in and hot air out. You can check for draughts yourself using a lit candle around door frames and window frames. When
there is a draught, the flame will blow towards you. You can then either fix the draught yourself using hardware from a store or by calling in the professionals. You can lose as much as 30% of heating through seals and gaps in your loft. Check under the insulation for cut-outs, pipes, wires etc, and seal them from the inside. If you have a log burner or multifuel burner, remember to close the flue after use, (when the fireplace has cooled) to avoid heat escaping.
Create a cosy ambience Even sealed windows can allow heat to escape. By using good quality curtains, you can better insulate your windows. Close them at nighttime and when you’re not at home to conserve heat. With the nights getting darker, light up your windows with some warm fairy lights to create a cosy ambience. If you feel cold, you will be cold; trick your mind and make your home as cosy as possible! If you don’t have a real fireplace, light some scented candles. Choose autumnal scents such as wild pumpkin, cinnamon or cookies to create a cosy atmosphere in your
home. Spoil yourself with some fleecy blankets to wrap up in during the evenings. This will stop you from fiddling with the thermostat and making your house too warm.
Re-arrange the furniture Move your sofa, and any other furniture, away from the radiator; your sofa absorbs heat from the radiator which stops it from circulating around the room. The same goes for big TV units, dressers etc: try to keep your radiators unblocked by furniture so they can release heat just as they should. In bedrooms, long curtains can have the same effect. If possible, tuck the curtains behind the radiator and move beds away from radiators too. Waking up with your arm on a scalding radiator isn’t an enjoyable experience for anyone! If you have a conservatory clean it too and make it winter-ready; if you have vinyl flooring, invest in a thick shaggy rug. A conservatory can get cold even with a heating system installed, so opt for a plug-in heater too!
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Be inspired by
autumn’ s new colour trends
We love
Ha n d ma d Wo o l Y a r e Ch u n k n Bl a y M n k et e ri n o Y e llo w
The bedroom
Ochre is a beautiful mustard yellow that is taking the high-street by storm, and it’s perfect for brightening up a room while adding a cosy feel of autumn too. Either opt for block colour or items featuring it as hints of colour. There are a whole host of ways of incorporating ochre into your bedroom, but we can’t resist a lovely, chunky, throw to snuggle up to help survive the colder nights coming our way! Handmade Chunky Merino Wool Yarn Blanket Yellow Handmade from Merino wool, The Handmade Chunky Wool Yarn Blanket is incredibly soft and luxurious. The intricate craftsmanship gives the blanket a beautiful look and lush texture. Throw it at the end of your bed to add warmth to your bedroom. £44.95 www.tastitch.com
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Top pick Ideal Home Papillion Contour Fabric Accent Chair
The living room If you’re feeling brave and want to add colour to your living room, then opt for a colourful piece of furniture, such as a signature sofa or chair.
Ideal Home Papillion Contour Fabric Accent Chair Inspired by the classic mid-century contour chairs, Papillion features decorative button detail and soft rounded edges in pastel pink. The beautifully shaped leg section is wrapped in a naturally toned wood-effect that creates an eye-catching contrast against the felt-effect fabric above them. £219 www.very.co.uk
Think of autumn and warm tones of reds, browns and yellows come to mind. Celebrate the season by adding the latest trends to your home
Key colour trends for the home are shades of yellow, rustic reds, dusky pinks and geometric colourways
Great value
On trend ni ng i D d re e t ls o h M a rg a ret U p li a & C o. C h a i r Op h e
The dining room
Now’s the time to be bold with your colour choices for the home. Nothing is out of bounds, so try the likes of burnt reds with navy. Experiment and you’ll be surprised! And when it comes to your dining room, it’s no different. Update your entertaining and dining space to make an impact. Margaret Upholstered Dining Chair Ophelia & Co. These chairs will add a comfortable, sophisticated feel for a formal or casual dining room. Honey finished legs made from hardwood offer modern simplicity and a rich tone to complement the seat of the chair. And at a price that won’t break the bank either! £183.99 – set of 4 www.wayfair.co.uk
Bo n e ood s W ric a n dle t e m Ge o wit h H
x
The Kids’ room
There’s no need to let the kids miss out on the latest trends this autumn. Give their room an uplift with fun, geometric furniture that’s practical as well as fashionable! From shelving units, funky cushions and rugs, there is plenty of inspiration out there. Why not try some geometric themed storage boxes? Geometric Wooden Box with Handles Bring adorable design to your home with this decorative wooden storage crate from Happy Little Folks. Perfect for a children’s room, it’s ideal for holding little bits and pieces. Each box has been carefully hand-painted with the bold geometric shapes having been created by using nontoxic, water-based paint and sealed with non-toxic varnish. Simply choose your colour scheme and off you go! £28 By Happy Little Folks www.notonthehighsstreet.com
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How best to prepare your garden for the colder months We are currently grasping onto the last ounces of sunny weather, and now your garden will need some attention and preparation for autumn and winter With the hottest day ever recorded in the UK having just passed us by (38.7 degrees Celsius in Cambridge on 25th July this year), your garden will have had its work cut out this summer, and is likely now feeling rather dried-out and exhausted. With the colder months just around the corner, here are our top tips as to how best to prepare your garden for the cooler times ahead.
Put away garden furniture Your outside furniture will have done you proud throughout the summer months, but now you need to ensure it doesn’t become needlessly wet, rusty, and perhaps even frozen in parts. Pack away any chairs and tables, as well as the barbeque if it’s a movable one, to prevent them from becoming victims to the elements throughout the winter season. A dedicated storage space or a garage would be ideal places to store them.
Protect your low-growing plants from wet weather by covering them with a sheet of glass or a cloche, and surrounding them with a slightly elevated layer of gravel or grit
The final cut of the grass It’s advised that any good gardener should keep their lawn generally well-maintained throughout the winter months, keeping it tidy and well-looked after. Late October or early November is generally the ideal time to give your lawn its final trim before winter hits. However, if you live in a particularly mild area you may be able to get away with cutting your grass in December.
Rotting plants Rotting and dying plants and other vegetation in your garden don’t only look untidy, they can also spread disease to other, healthier, plants in the surrounding area. Pests and fungi are also likely with old plants and could incur further problems for your garden. Insects feeding on your crops throughout the summer may lay eggs on the stalks and leaves, so removing any finished plants prevents pests from getting a head start come springtime. It’s also useful to note that burying old plants in your garden adds organic matter to your soil, which improves soil tilth and overall health.
Regenerate your compost A rich heap of compost can go a long way, and can be used to top up garden beds, amend deficient soils, and fertilize lawns. If you’re making way for another batch of compost and cleaning out the previous load, it’s likely to be insulated against winter’s chill, meaning microbes fester for longer into the winter. To prevent the microbes from festering further, compile your autumn compost heap with plenty of autumn leaves, straw or sawdust, layered with kitchen scraps and other active, green matter.
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Prepare the soil Autumn is a great time to add in new additions to the soil, such as manure, compost, kelp and rock phosphate. It’s often best to wait until your soil dries out before deciding to work it and add in extra nutrients: doing so in autumn means you won’t need to do as much in spring. Once you’ve added your additions, cover the bed of soil with sheets of plastic or other coverings to help prevent winter rains from washing the nutrients below the active root zone. The soil should be ready to be uncovered in dry spring, ready to work its magic.
Protect vulnerable plants from frost You can protect your low-growing plants from wet weather by covering them with a sheet of glass or a cloche, and surrounding them with a slightly elevated layer of gravel or grit, to ensure swift drainage of any potential rainwater. Some outdoor containers are frost-proof, and it’s advised you use these to prevent them cracking.
Plant cover crops Late summer or early autumn is an ideal time of the year to sow crops like rye, vetch and clover because, as well as adding nutrients, such crops as these help prevent soil erosion, break up compacted areas, and increase levels of organic matter in garden beds. Also, one way to increase the levels of available nitrogen for garden vegetables is to plant legumes in your garden, such as clover or field peas. Although some cover crops are hardier than others, it tends to be a general rule of thumb to plant cover crops around one month before your first killing-frost.
Late October to early November is generally the ideal time to give your lawn its final trim before winter hits
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A guide to
staying safe
on Bonfire night
Bonfire night can be one of the most exciting nights of the year and for very good reason. It’s a night filled with pretty firework displays, traditional bonfire treats and cosy hot drinks. However, it’s important to stay safe Whether you’re attending a firework display or celebrating at home, it’s important to remember that there are certain things you should and should not do.
You should: • • • • • •
build your bonfire far away from your home stand far enough away from fireworks and the bonfire make sure an adult checks the bonfire for hidden animals have a bucket of water nearby for emergencies keep your beloved pets inside during the celebrations remember to wrap up warm
You should never: • return to a firework after it’s been lit • let off fireworks after 11pm, (or midnight on the 5 Nov), as it’s illegal • build a bonfire near to any trees, fences or your home • leave before ensuring the fire and surroundings are put out • pour petrol or paraffin on the fire
According to the RSPCA 45 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear a firework set off
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Firework safety
!
Bonfire night stats
Firework displays can be great for the whole family. They can also be very dangerous, so here are a few tips on how to stay safe: • Only adults should; set up firework displays, light fireworks and safely dispose of them • You should only buy fireworks which show the CE mark • Read and follow the instructions • Use a taper to light the fireworks • Have a bucket of water at hand • Use a board or other non-flammable rigid surface for flat-bottomed fireworks • Stand at a safe distance whilst fireworks are going off
4, 436 people used the NHS A&E services for firework related injuries in 2017/2018 Around half of all firework injuries happen to children under the age of 16 (gov.uk) Over the past five years over 350 preschool children have been hospitalised due to firework injuries (UK fire service)
Tips to help keep your pets safe Fun with sparklers • Find somewhere safe and open • Make sure you wear gloves when handling sparklers • Sparklers shouldn’t be given to children under the age of five • Hold the sparkler away from your face and body • Never touch the end of the sparkler • Once it’s no longer burning, put it in a bucket of water
Bonfire night can be a very scary night for your furry friends. According to the RSPCA, 45 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear a firework set off. So, to help, we’ve put together a few useful tips to keep them safe and happy. • If you have a dog, make sure you walk them in daylight hours before the fireworks start • Close all your windows and curtains, to help muffle the sound • Put the telly or radio on to provide distraction • Create some hiding spaces around the house and if they do hide under furniture, leave them there • Make sure your pet is microchipped in case they escape • For small animals, partly cover their cages with blankets: this will help with soundproofing
Spooktacular soup! If you’re planning on carving pumpkins this Halloween, make the most of the whole pumpkin! There are plenty of recipes out there to try, but we love this soup which uses both the flesh and seeds Pumpkin & lentil soup
Serves 4 Kcals per serving: 233 Suitable for vegetarians and gluten free
Ingredients • • • • • • • • •
1 tbsp olive oil, plus 1 tsp 2 onions, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped approx 800g chopped pumpkin flesh, plus the seeds 100g split red lentils ½ small pack thyme, leaves picked, plus extra to serve 1l hot vegetable stock pinch of salt and sugar 50g crème fraiche, plus extra to serve
Method 1. Heat the oil in a large pan. Fry the onions until softened and
starting to turn golden. Stir in the garlic, pumpkin flesh, lentils and thyme, then pour in the hot stock. Season, cover and simmer for 20-25 mins until the lentils and vegetables are tender. 2. Meanwhile, wash the pumpkin seeds. Remove any flesh still clinging to them, then dry using kitchen paper. Heat the 1 tsp oil in a non-stick pan and fry the seeds until they start to jump and pop. Stir frequently but cover the pan in between to keep them in it. When the seeds look toasted, add a sprinkling of salt and a pinch of sugar. Stir well. 3. Whizz the cooked pumpkin mixture with a hand blender or in a food processor until smooth, then add the crème fraiche and whizz again. Taste for seasoning. 4. Serve with a spoonful of crème fraiche, a few thyme leaves and the toasted seeds scattered on top.
This recipe, and more, can be found at www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/creamy-pumpkin-lentil-soup
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O T E TI M GET COSY! cold Don’t let the oors. keep you ind gainst Snuggle up a in soft the elements and chunky knits ories. stylish access faves… Here are our
2-Piece Squirrel Print Hat & Mittens Set With this cute crocheted hat and matching mittens, they’ll be ready for splashing through all the puddles! Featuring ribbed cuffs, for a snuggly mitten fit. Embellished hat features a fun pom pom and squirrel motif. £14 www.marksandspencer.com
Girls grey padded belted longline coat Featuring zip pockets and detachable faux fur trim, this padded and belted long-sleeve coat is ideal for any fashion-conscious girl. Made from 100% polyester fabric. £50 www.riverisland.com
Monsoon Space Stripe Novelty Gloves Simply fun at their fingertips! These novelty gloves feature space-themed appliqués – perfect for any space-loving child. Available for ages 3 - 13 years. £12 www.very.co.uk
Boys’ Tech Parka Made from a shower-resistant material, this parka features a zip-through front, pockets for stashing essentials and a faux-fur lined hood to help protect against the elements. Available in bright blue, navy and red colourways. £55 - £61 www.johnlewis.com
Barbour® Leather Black Utility Gloves Invest in these 100% leather gloves to keep your hands warm and protected against the cold. £60 www.next.co.uk
Accessorize Devonshire Check Blanket Scarf In a classic check, this Devonshire blanket scarf by Accessorize is sure to lift your winter looks with tones of pink and yellow. 100% acrylic. L190 x W70 cm. £20 www.very.co.uk
Chilton Short Padded Wellies Don’t let the rain dampen your mood, or your style! These mid-height wellies from Joules are super stylish and have been finished with a faux fur collar for warmth. An anti-slip sole gives extra grip for those frosty mornings. £49.95 www.joules.com
Accessorize Nude Chunky Cable Poncho Ponchos are still on trend for the colder months, and this chunky knit poncho, made from 100% acrylic, is a must-have to help defend against the cold. £32 www.next.co.uk
SD-3 Parka Jacket Dress your man in style while keeping him cosy. With removable faux fur trim, a zip and toggle button fastening, five outer pockets, one inner pocket and ribbed cuffs, what more could he want in a jacket! £90.99 www.superdry. com
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Shrieks
ahead! Grab your broomsticks, it’s Halloween! Here’s how to keep your little coven spellbound and the not-so-little monsters in your life cackling at some of Britain’s top haunts
Apparently, we have the Celts to thank for Halloween and its creepy traditions. According to some scholars, the last day of October marked the end of the Celtic calendar and was the day they chose to honour their dead. Unfortunately, the Celts also felt this was the time when the barrier between worlds became wafer thin, allowing spirits to cross over and mingle with the living in order to destroy their recently gathered crops. So, to prepare themselves for this medieval fright night, the Celts across Britain and Europe
disguised themselves as ghosts and ghouls to wander unopposed, further arming themselves with lanterns carved from large seasonal vegetables and lighting bonfires. Sound familiar?
– the night before All Saints Day, which is November 1 – and, with the Church starting to restrict Pagan practises, Irish settlers heading to America took their traditions with them.
Of course, the well-to-do were far too important to indulge with such supernatural superstitions, so the poor offered to pray for their dead as well – in return for a small cake or, if you like, a treat. Conversely, in Irish mythology the Pooka (think Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream) would also be around to play pranks. Of course, you can’t miss the trick.
And that’s how a festival dedicated to death snowballed into the multi-million-pound fun night we know and love today.
The name Halloween originates from the mid-1700s and is derived from the Scottish All Hallows’ Eve
BOLSOVER CASTLE
Warwick Castle WARWICK From October 19 until November 3, the castle becomes a dead cert for those looking for bloodcurdling tales. With a choice of scare levels – Plucky Pumpkins, Daring Dukes and Brave Knights – you can meet a host of bizarre characters, wondrous witches and even the crew of the Paranormal Encounters TV show as they try to discover why the ghosts of Warwick cannot leave. Further details: warwick-castle.com
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Given such a macabre backstory, it’s really no surprise the best places to get spooked at Halloween are Britain’s mythladen stately homes and castles. We feature five which we are sure will help raise the chill factor.
DERBYSHIRE
It’s really no surprise the best places to get spooked at Halloween are Britain’s mythladen stately homes and castles
Said to be one of the country’s most haunted castles – which encouraged staff to keep a special ‘ghost book’ to record the eerie experiences of visitors! You may even bump into the ghost of Sir Charles, said to wander the corridors of his former home, or catch the distinct whiff of horses coming from the empty riding school. Further details: english-heritage.org.uk and search for Bolsover Castle
The name Halloween originates from the mid-1700s and is derived from the Scottish All Hallows’ Eve – the night before All Saints Day
oxford Castle
OXFORD Visitors to Oxford Castle, another of Britain’s most haunted buildings, will be met by a host of Halloween-themed fun; from Bill Spectre’s ghost trails and midnight ghost tours of the castle, to the jailbreak escape room puzzle game, as well as Trick or Treat evenings, pumpkin carvings and ghost hunts for families and children.
Whitby Abbey
Further details: oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk/events/ event/ghostfest/
NORTH YORKSHIRE
Fancy exploring the darker side of history among bright lights? No better place than an illuminated tour of the ruins which inspired Dracula, Bram Stoker’s classic horror story where you can meet witches and witchfinders. Further details: english-heritage.org.uk and search for Whitby Abbey
Other events Added to the above, the London Dungeon is promising something terrifyingly spectacular in their Halloween show (thedungeons. com) while younger thrillseekers will love Brick or Treat, the spooktacular sleepover event at LEGOLAND Windsor (legolandholidays.co.uk). And just to prove ghostly goings-on aren’t confined to dry land, the skeleton crew of a ghostly pirate ship has moved into Portsmouth Historic Dockyard bringing with them Halloween crafts, face painting, a deathly disco, kids trail and lots of competitions (historicdockyard.co.uk).
margam CASTLE SOUTH WALES
Margam Castle in Port Talbot can be a chilling location at the best of times and is said to be the home of the nasty and angry spirit of a gamekeeper who really throws his weight around! The castle has seen a lot of paranormal activity so their after-dark Halloween Ghost Hunt should be a ghoulish experience. Further details: eeventbrite.co.uk/e/halloweenat-margam-castle-ghosthunt-south-wales Of course, if you prefer your Halloween to be more home-based there are several things to keep the youngsters occupied before they go Trick or Treating. The English Heritage website (English-heritage.org.uk) carries helpful guides to making creepy lanterns and masks, as well as proposing a change to the modern trend of carving pumpkins by reverting to the more traditional turnips.
No self-respecting party would be complete without apple bobbing, another game which can be traced back to the Celts, who tied apples to trees to encourage the sun god to return the following year. Then it’s off for the much-loved house-to-house procession where clusters of Grim Reapers, zombies, Captain Jack Sparrows, ghosts, skeletons and even Hulks knock on doors and demand: ‘Trick or Treat?’ Whatever would the Celts have made of it all?
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The EFL Championship: How are the promotion favourites doing so far? Promotion from the EFL Championship is the most lucrative prize in world football; worth around £170 million because of the enormous TV rights package on offer!
Last years’ promoted teams, Norwich City, Aston Villa and Sheffield United are already feeling the harsh realities of life in the Premier League. But, with masses of money paid out in transfer fees and player contracts upon promotion, they will hope to duplicate the success of teams such as Burnley, Bournemouth and Wolves in the long run. Two teams win promotion automatically every year, with a play-off for the final spot from the teams positioned third to sixth. It’s a long hard slog with 46 games in the league, (and cup games on top,) and the Championship always throws up some surprises along the way. Before the busy winter period, here is our handy guide to how the promotion favourites are faring so far.
Leeds United Promotion from the EFL Championship is the most lucrative prize in world football
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Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds were last years’ play off final losers; despite sitting at the top of the table for most of the season the players tired and they lost their way. Losing first-teamer Pontus Jansson and top-scorer Kemar Roofe, and without the funds to replace them, they have looked to youngsters on loan from the Premier League this season. With another preseason under his belt and described as the ‘best manager in the world’ by Guardiola, expect them not to
tire this year. They steamrollered over Swansea, only to lose in the 90th minute, so they will hope Eddie Nketiah and Helder Costa bed in and make an impact as they don’t want the same problems as last season, when they lacked the cutting edge in attack.
Cardiff City Swansea City may be flying high at the start of the season, but expect this to be a temporary surge, much like a 100:1 outsider out front in the Grand National. They will fade, but expect Welsh rivals, Cardiff City, to hold steady throughout the season. Neil Warnock is an old hand at getting teams promoted, holding the record with 8 promotions in his management career. Cardiff have a solid squad of players, ready to rotate over the busier periods; when other teams drop off. Don’t be surprised when they’re, at least, in the play-off spots come the turn of the new year. And with Will Vaulks catapult throws, expect some last-minute goals ruining everyone else’s party.
Fulham Fulham spent big last year to avoid relegation from the Premier League. Caretaker manager Scott Parker did enough at the end of last season to get the job full time. They have a large squad of players, most with Premier League experience who will itch to get back to the top-flight. Like Leeds, they have dipped into the Premier League loan market, bringing in the experience of Harry Arter and the exciting Ivan Cavaleiro from Wolves, and kept hold of star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic. Expect Mitrovic and Cavaleiro to be pushing each other in their own personal goalscoring competition to the end of the season and don’t be surprised if Mitrovic reaches the magical thirty.
THE
perks
OF
RENTING
Between 2007 and 2017, the number of people renting in the UK increased by 63% A record number of people now rent their home as opposed to buying; with a large selection choosing to rent even though they could afford to buy. Renting has a huge number of perks and, with owning a home not as much of a priority for younger generations, this will continue to rise. The largest group of private renters are those aged 25-34. However,
there has also been an increase in renting for 45-54-year-olds. With new measures introduced earlier in the year, tenants have never been better protected. The increase in private renters isn’t necessarily because buying a house is out of their budget, many rent instead of buying due to career, family and the huge number of benefits that come from renting.
SO, WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST BENEFITS OF RENTING? The world moves faster than ever before. On average, Millennials switch jobs more often than older generations; with 60% always open to new opportunities. The job market has changed with people rarely staying in one job throughout their life. Many now want the flexibility to move to new areas to pursue their career. Renting is the perfect choice for those that do, as there is no need to put your house on the market, await viewings, negotiate offers and then wait for conveyancing. Leaving a rental property entails handing in your notice, cleaning and then moving! QUICK PROCESS
Many rent instead of buying due to career, family and the huge number of benefits that come from renting
Moving into a rental property is quicker than buying a property too. When you rent, you calculate how much you can afford using your salary, go on some viewings and then confirm to us, the agent, that you like the property. After this, you can put down a deposit and wait for the reference checks to complete, which usually takes a week. Once referencing is complete, you will confirm your
move-in date, pay your deposit and usually your first month’s rent, and pick up your keys. In theory, with the process running smoothly, you could view a house on a weekend and move in the next weekend! NO REPAIR BILLS If you own your home and the boiler breaks, or the oven stops working, you will need to pay a professional to replace or fix the item and do the work. In a rental property, report these problems and the landlord will get them fixed quickly at no cost to yourself, (as long as you didn’t cause the damage). This is the same for smoke alarms, Carbon Monoxide alarms and any other problems that happen during your tenancy. INSPECTIONS HELP YOU KEEP ON TOP OF THE CLEANING That dreaded word every tenant fears: ‘inspection’. However, this is the perfect opportunity to remind you to do a deep clean every sixmonths. When you own your home, you have no-one coming around to check on the condition of the property, which can lead to laziness in the upkeep of your home.
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STREAMDALE, ABBEY WOOD, SE2 GUIDE PRICE £380,000-£430,000
CALLING ALL CASH BUYERS / PROPERTY DEVELOPERS!! Beaumont Gibbs are offering this very spacious and extended six bedroomed end of terrace house for sale. The property is in need of modernisation throughout, and due to its condition and layout, would only be suitable for cash buyers. The house is situated on a corner plot location and offers the potential to split the house into two separate dwellings, subject to planning and building consents.
WHITEWEBBS WAY, ORPINGTON, BR5 £399,995
Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac location, this house has benefitted from having the loft converted into a double bedroom with en-suite shower. On the first floor are two further double bedrooms, bathroom and W.C. Downstairs is a large lounge, spacious fitted kitchen, large double glazed conservatory, with a cloakroom off of it. The garden is paved throughout and backs onto woodland, with the front also looking over a large green. Benefitting from double glazing and gas central heating.
sales@beaumontgibbs.com
020 8319 7600 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
LITTLEDALE, ABBEY WOOD, SE2 ÂŁ410,000
This well presented 3 bedroom property boasts a myriad of benefits from off street parking, separate lounge, spacious dining room, fitted kitchen and bathroom, together with a separate office / walk in wardrobe located through the master bedroom. To the rear of the property can be found a well tended garden boasting patio area, side access, lawn and seating area.The property also offers what was a former garage which is now has been converted into storage / play room area.
BLOOMFIELD ROAD, WOOLWICH, SE18 ÂŁ399,995
A stunning and tastefully presented two double bedroomed top floor penthouse apartment which comprises a very spacious hall with a skylight, huge open plan lounge and kitchen, with a vaulted and beamed ceiling, stylish fitted kitchen with granite work tops and sliding patio doors leading out to the roof terrace, which has panoramic views. There are also two double bedrooms, one of which has an en-suite shower room, together with a separate family bathroom. Viewing is very highly recommended!
www.beaumontgibbs.com
DONALDSON ROAD, SHOOTERS HILL, SE18 £430,000
An extended 3 bedroom mid terrace house, which benefits from a porch, entrance hall, through lounge and extended kitchen / breakfast room. Upstairs to the first floor are three bedrooms, two of which are doubles, and a family bathroom suite. The loft has been converted into a useable room, fully plastered walls and ceiling and is accessed via a fixed spiral staircase. Further benefits include off street parking to the front and a large double detached garage to the rear.
ST MERRYN CLOSE, PLUMSTEAD, SE18 £475,000
Beaumont Gibbs are pleased to offer this immaculately presented three bedroomed mid terrace ‘Goldstein’ built house in a very quiet cul-de-sac. Comprising entrance porch, entrance hall with W.C. under the stairs, spacious through lounge and a stylish and modern fitted and integrated kitchen. Upstairs are three bedrooms, two of which are doubles, together with a modern white bathroom suite. Further benefits include off street parking to the front of the property and a stunning and well established and manicured rear garden.
sales@beaumontgibbs.com
020 8319 7600 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
ELMDENE ROAD, WOOLWICH, SE18 £499,995
A spacious three double bedroomed bay fronted Victorian terrace house. This substantial home is excellently located for local shops and bus routes, and is very well presented internally comprising entrance porch, entrance hall, lounge, separate dining room, spacious fitted kitchen / breakfast room, ground floor shower room, three good sized bedrooms and a large modern bathroom suite. There is a 38’ garden to rear and the property Beaumont Gibbs are pleased to have the opportunity of showing you around this wonderful property.
VERNHAM ROAD, PLUMSTEAD, SE18 £650,000
A stunning extended five bedroom Victorian mid terrace house which measures just under 1,900 sq feet and comprises entrance hall, ground floor cloakroom, lounge with a open cast iron tiled fireplace, with folding wooden doors leading into the dining room, 22’5 x 10’5 kitchen / diner, utility room and conservatory. The first floor offers four bedrooms, one en-suite shower room and family bathroom, then you have another flight of stairs to the largest bedroom which has another en-suite shower room.
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W H AT OU R CUSTOMER S SAY
Abigail Lloyd Landlord The level of service that I got from Beaumont Gibbs was excellent. As a letting agent you want someone at the end of the phone who’s friendly and gives advice and that’s exactly what Beaumont Gibbs gave me. Its not corporate where you have no idea where your money is going. I would 100% recommend.
Alison Kelly
Tom Thurgood
Landlord
Seller I was really impressed with the agent that came around. They were really enthusiastic about my home and the work I’ve done on it. Viewings from Beaumont Gibbs were always good, there was a lot of communication which was useful for me. There were a few occasions where the agents couldn’t make it as they has been held up, but they were always on the phone communicating. I would always recommend Beaumont Gibbs.
I feel like Beaumont Gibbs are family, I have been using them for a long time now and I can call them up about anything and their very communicative. Beaumont Gibbs advertising of my property was very professional and they did it both online and also with a board outside the house and I think that creates a really good flow of people coming to view. Since I’ve been with Beaumont Gibbs I haven’t had any period of time that I haven’t had a tenant, they have always found me a good tenant.
Huub Niewstadt Buyer The level of service I received from Beaumont Gibbs was excellent and I enjoyed working with the company. The best thing about working with Beaumont Gibbs was how quickly they answered and returned my calls, someone was always available to talk to me. I would always recommend Beaumont Gibbs to family and friends.
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020 8319 7600
GIVING BACK. Simon Vyle Seller We felt that we were welcome and we were going got be treated as important clients. Beaumont Gibbs produced very detailed property brochures and the photographs were very well presented.
Michael Garrett Buyer
BEAUMONT GIBBS ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF THE AIR AMBULANCE.
Its important to have someone that understands your properties needs and someone that’s going to call you back with the queries that you have, so I felt that I had a good service with Beaumont Gibbs.
Athena Morse Seller The service from Beaumont Gibbs has been exceptional they’ve really looked after me, marketed the property well and I felt really well supported throughout through the sales process.
We are so pleased to be supporting this fantastic group of people. Not many people seem to realise that the air ambulance is in fact a charity and is not funded by the government. So much of their fundraising is done through people raising money from events such as abseiling, running marathons, at events like the Plumstead Make Merry, where Beaumont Gibbs and the air ambulance worked together to raise money, whilst the children had their faces painted. They are such dedicated and hardworking people and let’s not forget what they do, they save people’s lives on the streets of London. Did you know they can perform open heart surgery on site?
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M E ET TH E TEA M
Beaumont Gibbs have been established since 2006 and are based in the heart of Plumstead, SE18. We offer a service in both residential sales and lettings, including full management and a ‘nothing is too much trouble’ attitude towards all of our clients. Our office opened in 2007, and is situated on Plumstead Common Road in ‘the dip’.
Hi I am David Gibbs Well what can I say about myself! I have been in the industry since 1990, working for a large corporate chain. I started Beaumont Gibbs back in 2006 and have grown it considerably in the following years and even expanded the premises back in 2016. The best part of my job in fact is a number of things; I have a great team of people working with me. You meet new people every day and I love looking at innovative ways of adding to the business, which will give us a competitive edge. I am a father of three girls, one is all grown up and the other two are in primary school. I am married to Nikki, who works with me here and my hobbies include watching boxing, supporting Liverpool FC and playing snooker.
David Gibbs Director
Hi I am Nikki I am a mother to two girls and spend my time juggling being a mum to these two and working as David’s P.A and the office secretary. I am a master of multi-tasking, as I am a wife, mother, P.A and secretary all in one go. You will not be surprised that my favourite pastime is sleep! I have been working with my husband for well over a decade now, which is no mean feat. We get on so well together though, that living and working together is always a lot of fun. I love the people I work with and it makes coming to work that much better.
Tony Batchelor
Nikki Gibbs P.A. to David Gibbs
Hi I am Tony I started my Estate Agency career in 2001 in Welling, Kent, where I grew up. My main role at Beaumont Gibbs is taking properties on for sale, helping the sales progression side of the job and also working closely with David Gibbs the director. I have lived and worked in Plumstead for years now, so I feel like I am a part of the furniture. I enjoy all kinds of motor sport, and am a keen gardener and would also really love to have an allotment. I am most passionate about my family. I am a father of one grown up son and have been with my partner for over 20 years. I love spending time with them, especially on day trips out to the seaside on the south east coast. My favourite food is fish and chips or curry, my favourite time of day is definitely sunset and my favourite country is Italy.
Senior Property Consultant
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020 8319 7600
Paul Allen
Hi my name is Paul I was born and raised in the south London area and studied at Stanley Park High School in Carlshalton I now live in Wallington with my wife and have two grown up children, one boy and one girl. I have a very friendly nature and can seem to connect with most people I meet. I guess it’s just my natural charm! I work really hard to try and find tenants and buyers a new home and always update all my clients regularly with what is going on with the sale or rental of their homes. During my spare time I love fishing and watching my favourite football team, Crystal Palace.
Sales & Lettings Executive
I am one of the property managers here at Beaumont Gibbs. I have been doing this now for over 10 years and really enjoy managing other people’s property. I try to manage property as if they were my own, and in that way I feel I can give our landlords the best possible help and advice. I work with a great team where we all pull together to give the best possible service to our venders and landlords alike. Away from the office in my youth, I played professional football which was a great part of my life. I recently have just started playing bowls, which is miles away from football but I like it. I have recently moved to Whitstable to a seaside cottage which we are just doing up. Its hard work but we love living by the sea. Working at Beaumont Gibbs I can honestly say is an enjoyable part of my life now. It’s not just the work but the people you work for and without each other’s support the working day would not be the same.
Chloe Eastwood Property Manager
David Sewell Property Manager
Hi my name is Luke I have been in Estate Agency since 2011 and have worked for Beaumont Gibbs since 2013. During this time I have learnt so much about the job and feel that there is very little I do not know about this industry. The best part of my job is helping people during one of their biggest time of their lives in moving home. I really immerse myself into their world and am a very good problem solver. When I am not working I love watching and playing basketball and listening to Jazz. I am a father of two, the youngest was born in May 2018. We have named our son Fraiser “Ronnie Scott”, named after the famous jazz club.
Luke Scott Sales & Lettings Executive
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Hi my name is Chloe I have been working in the property industry since 2007 doing various roles. I am working as a property manager for Beaumont Gibbs and I really enjoy the work I do and the team that I am surrounded by. I am a woman who loves to maintain my appearance, Taking care of myself pushes me to be positive and take care of others and I feel my big bubbly personality can help when dealing with clients and making them feel as though I am not just an estate agent. Working in the property industry has helped me in many ways as I have recently become a homeowner and it helps me understand the other side and how stressful it can be. I have now realised my life is not talking about which party to go to next, but which washing product is the best! Life brings many lessons and one I am grateful for is achieving my goals and I look forward to my next chapter in life!
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