LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
PROPERTY NEWS
NOVEMBER 2020
THE BEST HOME EXTENSIONS A GUIDE TO INCREASING SPACE AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME ADVENT CALENDARS UNIQUE CALENDARS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS TIPS TO MAKE EVERYBODY ENVIOUS OF YOUR TREE
SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIP THE UK TOURNAMENT STARTS THIS MONTH
BLACK FRIDAY FEVER ARE WE TO EXPECT BIGGER REDUCTIONS THIS YEAR?
CONTENTS LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
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Finding more space Our guide to the best, most beneficial extensions to consider for your home
PROPERTY
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Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market About us Get to know our team a little better and see why we are your agent of choice
FOOD
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Winter Warmer Soups Warm up this winter with some fresh and hearty homemade soups
Preparing for Christmas Rekindling the atmosphere of those quaint mid-20th century yuletides
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Unique advent calendars A variety of advent calendars to suit all the family
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Treating your tree How to make everybody envious of your tree this year
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The return of The Crown The multi-award-winning drama is back on our screens on the 15th of November Black Friday fever Top tech tips for Black Friday bargains
SPORT
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Snooker UK Championship One of snooker’s most prestigious Triple Crown events starts this month
WELCOME TO THE NOVEMBER ISSUE!
T
he property market is still thriving, and with the Stamp Duty Holiday ending in March, and the average house sale taking longer than usual, there is no time like the present to finally move and take advantage. The clocks have changed and the nights are drawing in, which can only mean we’re on the countdown to Christmas! Inside, with the uncertainty over what Christmas will be like this year, we have an article about how to make it extra special this year alongside our guide to the best advent calendars available for all the family. However, it’s not all about Christmas, we have an informative
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PROPERTY NEWS
article about how best to extend your home as well as our top tech tips for Black Friday! Looking for cosy nights in? Check out pages 8 and 9 for our winter warmer soup recipes which you can relax with in front of The Crown when it returns check out our preview on page 12. And finally, we have a sports preview of the UK Snooker Championships on page 13. In these strange times, stay safe, enjoy your time with your family and look after yourselves. Jonathan Wheatley Editor
The country may still be in the grip of a pandemic, but there’s no reason we can’t avoid a bleak midwinter
M
ost people are thinking Christmas is likely to be a bit of a non-event this year. The continual struggle to combat the Covid-19 pandemic means an everchanging landscape of guidelines and restrictions, although the “rule of six” could be with us for some time. So, where does that leave the season of goodwill to all men in a facemask, the non-stop round of departmental parties which go on well past office hours, and those big family gatherings? Well, if you’re working from home the office party will be you, the cat, a mug of tea and slippers on before The One Show has started; the family get-together will be via Zoom; and social bubbles will be something more important than having the girls round for Prosecco. While Millennials may be tempted to shut up shop, do their best Scrooge impression and pretend Christmas has been cancelled, Baby Boomers and Generation X will be: “Hold our mince pies, we’ve got this”.
WILL WE KNOW IT’S CHRISTMAS? Because back in the Dark Ages - before the internet or even Channel 4 Christmases were localised, family-centric and far less commercialised with the countdown starting this month rather than early September when the tubs of biscuits and chocolates start appearing on supermarket shelves. So, how do you rekindle the atmosphere of those quaint mid-20th Century Yuletides? For a start, make your own Christmas cake instead of buying one. Set aside a Sunday afternoon and get baking, as early in November as possible because every consumer knows a good cake needs feeding regularly – as in a liberal dousing of brandy every week – before it is iced. And while you’re at it, get to work on your own Christmas pud (once again, nice and early to let it mature, more brandy etc) or a gingerbread house. The aroma alone will get you longing for Christmas Day. As for the not insignificant issue of decorating the house, leave it as late as
possible, do it together and make it an occasion not a chore with a “yeh, that’ll do” end product. Make it better by designing your own decorations… and cards. Set aside a good few hours, devise a festive playlist, and finish the day with hot chocolate or mulled wine. Or, as we are likely to be advised to spend more time at home, wind down with a night of Christmas films … and no, Die Hard doesn’t count. It’s not a proper Christmas film is it? As for the day itself, you can still FaceTime the relatives before settling in for games and quality time after lunch; admittedly, Exploding Kittens will never replace Kerplunk and Find Out Who is no Charades, but they’re still a lot of fun and will get you in the mood for a Morecambe and Wise Special on UK Gold. And if you still feel it’s the season for giving, donate to charity. After all, you could have saved a small fortune by not buying enough food and drink to feed a small army for a week.
How do you rekindle the atmosphere of those quaint mid-20th Century Yuletides?
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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MOST UNIQUE AND PRESTIGIOUS ADVENT CALENDARS
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY THIS CHRISTMAS Believe it or not, Christmas is coming, and it’s perhaps come around quicker than most Christmases before it… So it’s time to start thinking about advent calendars!
I
t’s true that we usually prefer to be eating chocolate each morning of December on the lead up to good ol’ Christmas, for it’s a time to indulge in the naughty stuff, indeed one of the few times of the year when it’s deemed completely socially acceptable. But if we’re purely talking about generating excitement and intrigue throughout the festive month, then there are some fantastic alternatives to advent calendars, ones without edible treats.
FOR GIRLS
FOR KIDS IN GENERAL This year will mark the 20th anniversary of the release of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This advent calendar is one of the most thematic, solid celebrations of the film on the market. £12.99, with chocolates. https://tinyurl.com/y4r8r4x2 This calendar would prove perfect for any Despicable Me fan out there. It contains buildable Minion characters with interchangeable parts including goggles, arms, feet and holiday outfits. £36.15 https://tinyurl.com/y65abpxf
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PROPERTY NEWS
In 2013, Frozen graced the silver screen and captured the hearts of little girls everywhere, especially those with sisters. This epic Disney Frozen advent calendar contains 24 surprises with an abundance of jewellery, 22 charms and accessories. £16.98. https://tinyurl.com/y48yht76 Another great advent calendar for girls is the L.O.L. Surprise! advent calendar, which contains 24 Surprises with a bracelet, a necklace and 22 LOL charms and accessories including a Queen Bee and Unicorn. £16.98 https://tinyurl.com/y6e7lv4l
FOR BOYS This advent calendar features PlayMobil top agents who are working on various gadgets and weapons, and includes a powerful LED super weapon and two PlayMobil figures and accessories. Any boy who’s a fan would be head over heels for this at Christmas. £15.71
https://tinyurl.com/y5tlcek3 Your son can accelerate to Christmas day in style with the SINCO Hot Wheels advent calendar, perfect for any roadster. Boys love their toys, right? This calendar offers 24 surprise gifts with mini cars, bikes, toys and stickers. £14.69 https://tinyurl.com/y5syzvlx
FOR MUM AND DAD The Glittering Galaxy of Makeup Magic beauty advent calendar from Charlotte Tilbury contains 12 full size and travel size makeup and skincare icons, with two dazzling looks built into one show-stopping treasure trove of beauty marvels. £150 https://tinyurl.com/y585qcxg This other festive beauty from Charlotte Tilbury, Charlotte’s Bejewelled Chest of Beauty Treasures, contains full size and travel size magic makeup and supercharged skincare secrets. £150 https://tinyurl.com/y2t4h9bx
Meanwhile, Fortnum and Mason offer some incredible advent calendars, and not all of them are of a naughty price tag! Some of them are of a sweet fee, and absolute bargains if you ask us! Fortnum’s Truffle Selection Advent Calendar. £35 https://tinyurl.com/y3ruhr4s Fortnum’s Bawden Stag & Santa Advent Calendar. £99 https://tinyurl.com/yxsq33sg Fortnum’s Filled Wooden House Advent Calendar. £135 https://tinyurl.com/yxrpnl53 And for the ultimate, decadent advent calendar for any adult this Christmas… Fortnum’s Feasting Advent Calendar. £200 https://www.fortnumandmason.com/fortnumsfeasting-advent-calendar
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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TREAT YOUR TREE
THIS CHRISTMAS Your Christmas tree is the centrepoint of your decorations so here is our guide to getting it right this year
A
s the winter season approaches, attention will soon turn to adorning the house during the busy Christmas period. And there is no bigger opportunity to nail decoration than ensuring that the Christmas tree radiates splendour throughout the home. So here are some tips on how to make everybody envious of your tree, this year.
FAKE VS. REAL?
Every year, the question of a real or fake Christmas tree raises much debate through households. There are, indeed, pros and cons for both, making that key decision all the more difficult. Real trees provide an unmistakable, authentic Christmas feeling through their smell, as well as their individual shape and size. However, they do require extensive maintenance throughout the festive season, as well as the hassle of getting rid of them after it’s all over.
On the other hand, an artificial tree requires no regular maintenance, the proportions are all symmetrical, and they can be used for many years. Although, a study has shown that as a result of the carbon footprint caused from making artificial trees, a single tree would need to be used for ten Christmasses to keep the environmental impact lower than that of a real tree. But whatever your decision, it’s the decoration which is the most important thing.
Red goes well with gold and green and is a classic Christmas combination with warm white lights.
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PROPERTY NEWS
COLOUR SCHEMES
If you fancy changing up your tree theme this year, then here are a couple of ideas to brighten up your home. 1. Keep it Traditional If you’re someone who usually prefers to go bold with colour schemes, why not go back to the traditional colours of Christmas. A traditional Christmas tree makes a home feel extra festive and homely with a splash of red, so why not warm up the room this winter?
Red goes well with gold and green and is a classic Christmas combination with warm white lights. 2. Bring the Snow inside Even if the weather flatters to deceive, give the inside of your home the full winter experience and pick a white colour scheme to go with your tree. This stark colour compliments the lush green of the tree and also pairs perfectly with the blue or white of an artificial tree.
A traditional Christmas tree makes a home feel extra festive and homely
Snow spray is a great way to turn a boring tree into something more special. 3. Add Some Luxury If your home boasts darker tones to the walls and furniture continue in this vein with your tree and choose rich gold and black decorations. These colours work well with the dark green of a tree and really add a sense of class to proceedings.
Wooden tree decorations complete the scene with some natural material added to the luxury.
DIY DECORATION
Making Your Own Baubles If you can’t find the perfect coloured decorations for your chosen colour scheme then have a go at designing them yourself. This can be easily done by buying transparent baubles and then filling with whatever you like! You can combine glitters, confetti and stars, and after giving it a shake, you’ll have your very own custom bauble to complement the colours of your tree. Mason Jar Display Perhaps not one for the tree itself, but when decorating, if there are baubles or other trinkets left over, place them in mason jars and arrange on the mantelpiece in a pyramid shape, resembling a Christmas tree. This is a great way of adding vibrancy to every area of your home, whilst also ensuring that every ornament is on display. How to Complete your tree? We’ve already mentioned the importance of picking a colour
scheme and fully utilising all of your ornaments, but what else can be done to really make your tree the talk of the town? Less is More There’s nothing worse than a Christmas tree that looks disorganised. So ensure that the lights are evenly layered around the tree so that every branch is given a warm glow. Likewise, with other ornaments. It’s great to see an array of baubles and other trinkets adorning a tree, but don’t forget that the tree itself is a sight to behold, so don’t let your decoration become too busy. Add Different Textures Baubles are a staple of any Christmas tree, but that doesn’t mean that there can’t be more going on. If you’re looking for other items to spruce up your tree with, ribbons and bows can provide a neat and tidy alternative and if your tree is looking especially sparse, then dress your tree in tinsel, which can take it to a different dimension altogether, in terms of its boldness.
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HOMEMADE WINTER WARMER SOUPS W ith the grey and dreary weather outside, now’s the time to warm up with some fresh and hearty homemade soups made from simple ingredients that are sure to heat your insides on a cold day.
2 tbsp olive oil 2 onions 2 garlic cloves ¼ tsp hot chilli powder 1 tbsp ras el hanout 1 butternut squash 100g red lentils 1l hot vegetable stock 1 small bunch of coriander Natural yoghurt, to serve
30g butter 2 onions 3 garlic cloves 100ml scrumpy cider 1 small potato 2 thyme sprigs 450ml chicken stock 50ml double cream ½ Granny Smith apple 2 slices of baguette 20g grated mature cheddar 10g dried apple 1 spring onion
SPICED LENTIL AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP This healthy and low-fat vegetarian soup is perfect for freezing to keep for a speedy supper another day. Heat the oil in a casserole dish or saucepan over a medium heat. Fry the onions with a pinch of salt. Add the garlic, chilli and ras el hanout and cook for a further minute. Stir in the squash and lentils. Pour over the stock and season to taste. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to simmer and cook, covered, for 25 minutes until the squash is soft. Blitz the soup with a hand blender until smooth and then season to taste. Serve with a dollop of natural yoghurt and coriander leaves.
CIDER & ONION SOUP WITH CHEESE & APPLE TOASTS Try this slightly different version of classic French onion soup to give your household a warming glow this winter. Heat the butter in a saucepan until foaming, then add the onions and cook for 10 mins until soft and golden. Add the garlic and cook for a further minute. Pour over the cider, then add the potato and thyme and simmer for another 2 mins. Stir in the stock cream, bring to the boil and simmer for 15 mins or until the potato is soft. Remove the thyme sprigs. Transfer the soup to a blender and blitz until smooth. Heat the grill high and toast the baguette on both sides. Mix the cheese, dried apple and spring onion together. Put the mixture, thickly, onto the toast and grill until melted and golden. Once ready, serve the soup and toasts together.
90g butter 2 medium onions 1 garlic clove 500g mushrooms, finely chopped 2 tbsp plain flour 1l hot chicken stock 1 bay leaf 4 tbsp single cream A small handful of flat-leaf parsley
MUSHROOM SOUP Try this comforting mushroom soup as a starter or on its own with crusty bread for a perfect winter’s evening. Heat the butter in a large saucepan and cook the onions and garlic until soft but not browned. Add the mushrooms and cook over a high heat for another 3 mins until soft. Sprinkle over the flour and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken stock, bring the mixture to the boil, then add the bay leaf and simmer for a further 10 mins. Remove and discard the bay leaf, then remove the mushroom mixture from the heat and blitz with a hand blender until smooth. (Now is the time to freeze the soup if you want to save any) When ready to serve, gently reheat and stir through the cream before pouring into bowls and scattering parsley over the tops.
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PROPERTY NEWS
Tantalise your tastebuds with these full-of-flavour winter warmer soup recipes as the weather gets colder
All recipes are from www.bbcgoodfood.com Images for illustrative purposes only
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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THE BEST
EXTENSIONS FOR YOUR HOME Moving home isn’t always the solution to finding more space.Here’s our guide to the best, most beneficial extensions to consider for your home
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xtending your home can be one of the greatest things you can do as an owner of your home, potentially adding value to your property whilst also generating precious space, which is especially important if you’re a growing family. You may settle upon a two bedroom semi, for example, situated within a cul-de-sac position. It may not have the three bedrooms you required but given its location, you
The ground floor offers more options than upper floors, and if you require extra living space, an additional reception room, perhaps with an open plan layout to your kitchen
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PROPERTY NEWS
can’t resist snapping it up. The third bedroom extension gets sorted, and you now have your dream home. The flexibility of creative freedom extensions can offer new buyers and current owners should never be underestimated. Here is our guide to the most popular extension ideas.
CONSERVATORY
Although many properties already have conservatories attached, thus being inherited by the buyer, there
are some shrewd advantages to having a conservatory extension yourself. Having one installed yourselves affords you creative freedom over the style of it, the size of it, and the height, as well as its internal decoration and layout. Indeed, a buyer inheriting a conservatory might not like what’s already there, and it’s much more expensive, of course, to have a conservatory knocked down and a new one built, as opposed to just the latter.
ADDITIONAL RECEPTION ROOM
If you find you only have enough room within your plot for one extra reception room, you may decide to opt against a conservatory and go for a separate dining room, a playroom for the children, perhaps a large office space, or a games room accommodating enough space for a pool table. The ground floor offers more options than upper floors, and if you require extra living space, an additional reception room, perhaps with an open plan layout to your kitchen, can add flow and precious space for entertaining, dining or anything else. If you wanted to consider having patio or French doors installed to open out to the gardens, this will obviously also need to be accounted for financially. This prospective reception room might also offer versatility in the nature of a potential annex, with an en suite and/or dressing room complementing the self-contained accommodation.
ADDITIONAL BEDROOM
Many families decide to move homes entirely as the children get older, and/or if another child is in the making. But a simple extension can be enough to create that extra dwelling space, and is usually the most cost-effective solution too since it will also add value to your home. You could extend into your rear garden, reducing the amount of garden space but gaining that extra bedroom you need.
KITCHEN
Kitchens can be the absolute hub of your home, or it can be the place you escape into to exercise your gastronomical creative juices. Either way, having a big enough kitchen for your needs is pretty much essential. It may be you simply need a new cooker, and you’ve decided to change your induction hob cooker to a range style cooker, which would mean shifting the base unit cupboards over to create enough space for the larger appliance, thus extending the kitchen as a whole would really help with this process. Or perhaps you want the kitchen to incorporate an open plan family living area, with French doors opening out to the gardens. The potential available to a kitchen, in terms of creating extra space, is almost infinite, and can add some serious value to your home by doing so.
INTEGRAL GARAGE
Parking is not an insignificant factor for any driver when looking for their new home, and perhaps the addition of a garage can not only provide much needed extra parking, but versatility too, having it be an occasional gym, storage area or workshop, especially if the vehicle in question is a motorcycle rather than a car. Having the garage attached means you’d be able to access the garage from inside, which would, again, increase the level of flow throughout the ground floor.
Extending your home can be one of the greatest things you can do as an owner of your home
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This period will also cover the marriage between Prince Charles and Princess Diana, with Emma Corrin playing the People’s Princess
THE CROWN RETURNS
The return of TV royalty this November
W
ith the number of scheduled TV shows that have been forced to be put on hold this year, it’s a good job that Netflix’s The Crown film their show in two seasons chunks, so that Series 4 of the hit show has been ready to go since the early part of this year. And it isn’t long until the multi-award-winning drama is back on our screens with the show returning on the 15th of November.
WHO’S IN SEASON 4?
As fans of the show will know, The Crown explores all of the major historical events which the Royal family and the corresponding governments have had to face since Queen Elizabeth II has been on the throne. The end of the third series concluded with the Queen celebrating her Silver Jubilee in 1977, so assuming that the fourth series picks up around this time, one can assume that Gillian Anderson (The X-Files, Sex Education), will be at the centre of the action, in her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher. This period will also cover the marriage between Prince Charles and Princess Diana, with Emma Corrin playing the People’s Princess. Otherwise, the core cast from the third series will return for the latest instalment including Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth, Tobias Menzies as Prince Phillip, and Helena Bonham-Carter, who will, once again, play Princess Margaret.
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PROPERTY NEWS
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE FOURTH SERIES? The fourth instalment will mainly cover the 1980s, which could mean that the series may kick off with Margaret Thatcher’s rise to Prime Minister in 1979. One of the other major storylines will be the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, as well as the birth of their sons, William and Harry.
Netflix has also hinted that an infamous incident, which took place in 1982, in which a man was able to break into Queen Elizabeth’s room will also be included. The Falklands War is also expected to play a key part of the latest series, as well as key events which took place towards the end of the decade, such as the Queen’s 1989 flight on Concorde. The series will be released on November 15th, and if previous series are anything to go by, all ten episodes will be released together, allowing viewers to binge to their heart’s content.
SNOOKER UK
CHAMPIONSHIP KICKS OFF THIS MONTH One of snooker’s most prestigious Triple Crown events, the UK Championship, starts at the end of November. It is the second-biggest ranking tournament after the World Championship. First held in 1977 in Blackpool, this year’s competition will take place at two venues to comply with Covid-19 social distancing guidelines. The qualifiers and first round will be staged at the Marshall Arena in Milton keynes before reverting back to its usual home at the York Barbican. The first round will begin on the 23rd-26th November, while the second round starts on the 28th November till the 6th December.
The UK Snooker Championship will see big-hitters Ronnie O’Sullivan and Mark Selby battling it out to take Ding Junhui’s crown
Ronnie O’Sullivan holds the record for the most wins in the tournament with seven titles, closely followed by Steve
Davis with six and Stephen Hendry – who has just announced his return to the sport – with five. Last year saw Ding Junhui beat Stephen Maguire in the final, 10-6. It was Ding Junhui’s third UK Championship title, and despite Covid-19 restrictions, he should be in York to defend his title. He is currently ranked 10th in the world, with Judd Trump number one. Famous names such as O’Sullivan, Selby, Allen, Higgins and Murphy complete the top 10 and should be in this year’s tournament.
This year’s tournament is sponsored by Betway and offers total prize money of £1,009,000 with £200,000 for the winner.
FIRST ROUND
23rd - 26th November – Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes
SECOND ROUND AND FINALS
28th November - 6th December – York Barbican
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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THAT FRIDAY
FEELING It was once the term used to describe the day when American workers would call in sick so they could extend Thanksgiving into a long weekend, but it is now more associated with a global shopping phenomenon.
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Bargain hunters will be out in force towards the end of the month as Black Friday fever sweeps the retail market. But what’s it all about?
pandemic may see a drastic reduction in footfall, so expect the phrase ‘slow-moving traffic’ to relate to your broadband rather than the roads as bargain hunters let their fingers do the walking on the web to secure the best deals.
Black Friday, America’s high-octane version of our Boxing Day sales, will again explode on to the UK’s hardpressed retail sector on November 27, although in reality the first shots in the discount price war may be fired somewhat earlier and continue well past Cyber Monday, reputedly the busiest online shopping day of the year.
This year analysts are expecting bigger reductions than normal as retailers try to make the best of what has been a pretty dismal year; certainly the notion that Black Friday was coined to describe the day shopkeepers tried to get back “into the black” will certainly have a harsh element of truth to it.
However, restrictions imposed following the second wave of the Covid-19
Traditionally, tech, electricals and gadgets are the big winners over the
PROPERTY NEWS
period – certainly online giants Amazon and high-profile retailers such as Currys PC World and Argos shifted huge numbers last year – although all-rounders such as John Lewis and Very have flexed their muscles and brought clothing, furniture and other lines into the picture – the latter reporting more than 92.5million online visits in 2019. Last year, toys and games consoles, particularly the Nintendo Switch, proved popular and this year is not likely to deviate from that trend as the PS5 and Xbox Series X come on to the market, with their predecessors expected to come almost gift-wrapped in bargain bundles.
Big-ticket items such as 4K TVs with HDR support could see some promising discounts as 8K sets have started to work their way on to the shelves. As an indicator, one of the big sellers last year was a Philips Ambilight 75inch 4K Smart TV which had its price slashed by almost £600. And it’s no surprise that the likes of Apple launch new mobile phones in early autumn to offer a slight discount for Black Friday, although the iPhone 12 delay may just cloud the issue this year and could affect iPhone 11 deals. Ah well, there always good deals on fans’ favourites like AirPods. In short, if a new product has been launched, you’re likely to find older models carrying hefty discounts. And if the main online retailers are offering good deals, you can expect the shops to wade in with a competitive alternative. Elsewhere beauty products and non-electricals may continue to increase in popularity as more brands look to take advantage of passing interest from savvy shoppers who have
one eye on Christmas. But it would be a brave man who bets against technology-based items being the hot sellers.
be and can recognise if it’s a bargain. And that is also where you need to keep your options open. It’s best to keep in mind the features you want, rather than a specific model number which may not be discounted while an almost identical set with the spec you want, probably will be. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that something which looks like a five-star set-up is the same but cheaper – certain elements, often screen quality or image processing, might be inferior.
So, how do you get the best deals on Black Friday? Simple. Do your homework… and be flexible. Industry insiders say some retailers gradually increase prices from August through to October, so they can offer ‘amazing’ discounts towards the end of November, something which is particularly prevalent in expensive consumer electronics such as TVs or laptops. If you’ve been tracking a particular item, you’ll know what the maker’s recommended retail price will
As for snapping up a Black Friday bargain, your consumer rights should be the same as when shopping at any other time of the year, although it may pay to be aware of return policies and warranty periods. And also only shop with retailers you trust. If a deal seems too good to be true, you might just be on the wrong website.
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Cranbourne Hall Park, Winkfield
ÂŁ165,000
A well presented two bedroom one bathroom double unit situated on Cranbourne Hall Park. Offering spacious living accommodation. Comprising of a kitchen, lounge through diner, bathroom and two double bedrooms. This property also benefits from an easily maintained garden and off street parking for multiple cars.
The Myrke, Datchet
ÂŁ350,000
A charming and characterful two double bedroom end-terrace cottage located within a residential cul-de-sac ideally located within the outskirts of Datchet and moments away from the great links of Slough. The property comprises of a living room, dining room, cottage style kitchen, bathroom and a great sized rear garden.
sales@horler.co.uk | lettings@horler.co.uk
01753 621 234 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
ÂŁ600,000
Ruscombe Gardens, Datchet
A four bedroom detached home located in the ever popular no through Ruscombe gardens. The property is ideally situated close to schools and the Village centre of Datchet and is also easily commutable to Sloughs Train station which is eagerly anticipating the Cross rail. Offered to the market with now onward chain and vacant possession the property does has scope to improve and even to extend STPP.
Newberry Crescent, Windsor
ÂŁ480,000
Located in a quiet cul-de-sac on the Laing development in West Windsor this property benefits from a good size South facing garden, off road parking for a number of cars, three bedrooms and a duel aspect living room with additional family room at the rear. Please call 01753 621234 to view.
www.horler.co.uk
Slough Road, Datchet
OIEO ÂŁ450,000
A well presented two double bedroom cottage which has been extended to the ground and offers additional planning for additional rear extension currently in progress. The property currently offers a front aspect living room with log burner and bay style window, separate dining room with a feature fireplace, kitchen with access to the private rear garden and upstairs offers two double bedrooms. Also can potentially be sold with no onward chain call to view 01753 62.1234
Court Close, Maidenhead
ÂŁ850,000
A heavily extended five bedroom detached home which offers versatile living accommodation across two floors. The property benefits from a beautifully finished open plan kitchen / living / dining area with a fully integrated kitchen, utility room, front aspect living room, cloakroom, bedroom five and two large storage rooms. Upstairs offers bedroom one with en-suite and walk in closet, bedroom two with walk in closet, a mezzanine bedroom with en-suite, additional bedroom and family bathroom. Benefiting from a large fence enclosed garden and off road parking for a number of cars.
sales@horler.co.uk | lettings@horler.co.uk
01753 621 234 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
ÂŁ270,000
Dedworth Road, Windsor
Another exciting development of ten, one bedroom apartments bought to you by Horler and Associates and built by Boundstone developments. On offer is a selection of spacious apartments finished to an impeccable standard throughout. The properties benefit from open plan living space with state of the art appliances, tiled bathroom suites, superb views on the first and second floors and doors to communal gardens on the ground floors. Available to view on the Help to buy scheme too, means there should be something available for all applicants. Call today to request our latest price guide for all apartments available.
Nelson Road, Windsor
OIEO ÂŁ600,000
A three bedroom semi detached house which has been extended with further potential into the loft if required. The property offers front to back living and dining room, fitted kitchen, downstairs bathroom and study which can be used as downstairs bedroom with en-suite. Upstairs offers four bedrooms, family bathroom and loft access.
www.horler.co.uk
Retirement Village WINDSOR
HELSTON LANE
Peace of mind, in every sense
SL4 5GG
The concept of living in a retirement village is relatively new to the UK. For some people, just the phrase ‘retirement living’ can evoke thoughts of old people’s homes or having to move because you can’t cope anymore. Retirement living at Castle View couldn’t be further from those beliefs. The philosophy at Castle View is all about emphasising the ‘living’ aspect of retirement - independent living and owning your own apartment whilst accessing tremendous communal facilities and being able to tap into a strong community, providing care, friendship, activities and laughter as and when you wish. Castle View has plenty of facilities for residents, their family and friends, including the spectacular Sky Lounge/bar and huge roof deck for entertaining and fabulous view of Windsor Castle. There’s a restaurant and chef, Caz, who is always happy to cater for private dining or celebration parties, two bars, two lounges and a tranquil library. Activities are a regular feature of village life. Not the stereotypical activities that you associate with senior living, but clubs and groups that keep the mind active, yoga to keep the body moving, and social events such as cocktail evenings, gin club and seasonal parties to keep the soul singing!
Main entrance
Rooftop apartment
The centre of Windsor is a 15 minute walk away with its many shops, cafes, restaurants and famous theatre which captures lots of shows heading to the West End. Everything you need is literally on your doorstep. There is also, of course, Windsor Great Park, the River Thames and Windsor Castle all within walking distance. Castle View Windsor sets itself apart from other retirement offerings. It is independently owned, and is the brainchild of Robin Hughes, CEO and Founder of Castle Retirement Living. He is Windsor born and bred and has used his decades of experience in the retirement industry to bring to the Royal Borough a very special offering. It must be good because one of the first residents to move in was his Mum! Robin and his dedicated team (James, Lisa, Ruth, Caz, Nigel, Rosemary, Colin and Daniel) get to know the residents personally, providing tailored assistance and act on resident feedback quickly.
Castle View Sky Lounge
Castle View offers 64, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments, arranged over four floors, including 5 spectacular rooftop apartments. Details such as raised washing machines and tumble dryers, movement sensitive lighting and carousel shelving in the fully equipped kitchens make living at Castle View intuitive, aiding independence well into later years. Plus, with an underground car park, 24-hour reception and CCTV in all the communal areas, it’s no wonder one resident referred to Castle View as ‘a safe place to call home’.
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Apartments lounge and fully equipped kitchen
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If you would like to find out more or book a private appointment, please call us on 01753 378127.
EXCELLENCE IN RETIREMENT
What is it really like to live in a retirement community?
If you are thinking about buying at Castle View Windsor, take advantage of our ‘Try Before You Buy’ offer to get a taste of our vision for retirement living. As a prospective buyer, you have a chance to stay in one of our beautiful apartments on a weekly basis. During this time, you will be able to meet the existing owners and team members who will be happy to answer questions you may have about living at a Castle View Retirement Village, Windsor.
Better still, you will also have access to the facilities available such as our famous 360° sky lounge, rooftop and bar, restaurant, private dining room and library. Terms and conditions apply – talk to us on 01753
378127
Independent living with peace of mind. 1, 2 & 3 bed apartments for the over 55s with support and care if required
Talk to us on 01753 378 127
www.castleviewwindsor.co.uk
Award Award winning winning experts experts in in selling selling and renting your property and renting your property
Mr Smith. Seller I was well content with all interactions with Holers. This was a group of people that genuinely were there to help, they were aware that the more they helped, the more confident the client was and the better the outcome for them.
“ This was a group of people that genuinely were there to help.”
Mrs Jalali. Buyer I found communication with them one a 1-2-1 level very easy, they were very straight forward and honest and that shone through. I think they work very well as a team together and I would have no hesitation in using Horler again.
“ I found communication with them one a one-two-one level very easy, they were straight forward and honest.”
Mrs Bird. Seller When we had the viewings we had full communication with everyone at Horler, we had a lot of viewings, very quickly and had feedback almost straight away. The fact that Horler are local works really well, For us, knowing that we wanted to stay in this area we felt that they were the right estate agent for the job.
“I’d definitely use Horler again.”
Mr Summers. Seller / Land lord Its important that the communication is positive, is two way and finds a solution. Thats what we actually look for from agents and thats what we looked for from Horler.
“It’s important the communication is positive, two way and finds a solution.”
www.horler.co.uk
Meet The Team. Richard Horler. Sales Director A Windsor boy born and bred, Richard heads up the sales division of the company. He brings with him an invaluable knowledge of the local area and his, “go above and beyond attitude” has propelled him to the very top of his industry. Richard specialises in advising clients on market trends, home appraisals and also heads up the New Development department. Outside of work Richard is a keen family man with his wife Kerri and his three children. He also considers himself a part time triathlete!
Emily Webb. Lettings Senior Manager The brains behind the operation… Emily has been with the firm for 14 years and has been fundamental in growing the lettings division from scratch in 2004 to now successfully managing over 400 properties monthly. Her knowledge of the rental market is second to none and her reputation throughout the industry precedes her. In her spare time Emily loves to spend time with her partner and hobbies include “collecting designer handbags”.
Bradley Horler. Senior Sales Negotiator An award winning agent for customer service on more than one occasion, Bradley’s ability to negotiate a deal is almost as sharp as his array of finely cut suits! Often complimented on his attire on viewings, his ability to find you your dream home has led him to become our top sales boy since the moment he joined our team. Bradley has recently become a father and enjoys little more than spending time with his family and supporting Windsor Rugby club at the weekends.
Ruby Long. Sales Administrator Quite often the first person that will greet you when arriving at our sales showroom – and an experience you will remember with fondness. Immaculately presented and with a natural ability to make you feel special, Ruby is our anchor and our front of house. Ruby spends all of her spare time with her two children who are always equally well presented!
sales@horler.co.uk | lettings@horler.co.uk
Mike Lister. Lettings Negotiator Incredibly articulate, reliable and punctual with whatever he does, Mike is a central part of the lettings team success. Known for his patience and natural ability to mediate arising issues early, Mike only lets his hair/beard down outside of working hours. Mike has a real passion for playing the guitar, last seen playing with the band on his wedding day! He is also a keen photographer and is responsible for all of our company head shots!
Carlie Davies. Office Manager You will be greeted with a smile and a larger than life personality when you meet Carlie. With a reputation for going the extra mile and with a, “do everything and anything” attitude towards her clients, she has been seen on more than one occasion, quite literally loading her client’s van with boxes on their moving day. In her spare time Carlie enjoys socialising with friends and is quite often seen doing, “a spot of retail therapy”.
Loren Jacobs. Senior Lettings Negotiator Loren is an extremely driven individual who exceeds in every aspect of her job role. Her straight forward honest approach is admired by many and her inspirational attitude towards her work means you can be assured you are in safe hands. Outside work Loren enjoys spending time with her family and taking well earned holidays in sunnier and hotter climates.
Carla Reynolds. Lettings Administrator Carla joined us part time whilst studying but when the time came we just couldn’t let her go. Carla has a tenacious ability to deal with whatever is thrown her way, an absolute workhorse and some say she has a photographic memory! Carla enjoys catching up with family and friends outside of work and enjoys eating Italian food.
Dom Darley. Lettings Negotiator Our newest and certainly youngest member of staff – although you wouldn’t know it. Dom is a highly motivated young man and is often seen moving between appointments in Datchet. He loves to be involved in all our local community support work and has recently become a father. Living in Datchet with his family, the little spare time he has sees him playing football for Datchet Village most weekends.
www.horler.co.uk
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Windsor 01753 621 234 | Datchet 01753 546 667 | horler.co.uk