LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
PROPERTY NEWS
AUGUST 2020
UK ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT THIS YEAR CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO THE OLDEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL CASTLES IN THE UK LOCKDOWN EXCESS? LOSE WEIGHT AND GET FIT NOW!
JAMS AND CHUTNEYS SIMPLE PRESERVE AND CHUTNEY RECIPES
STAMP DUTY HOLIDAY WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR FINANCES
DISTANCE LEARNING HOW DISTANCE LEARNING CAN HELP YOUR CAREER
CONTENTS LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
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UK attractions to visit Check out our guide to the oldest and most beautiful castles in the UK
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PROPERTY
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Stamp duty holiday We explain what the announcement means for sellers and buyers
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Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market
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About us Get to know our team a little better and see why we are your agent of choice
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FOOD
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Jams and chutneys Some fantastic jams, preserves and chutney recipes to make at home
Upcycling for the garden Household cast-off’s can be transformed into great garden features Protecting yourself in the sun Top tips for staying safe during the hotter months Fruit foraging It’s time to hit the hedgerows and roadsides for nature’s free feast Inspirational Books We’ve picked five books, of the 21st century that are worthy of comment Online distance learning A look into the endless possibilities of distance learning
HEALTH
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Lose the lockdown weight We take a look at some workouts and exercises to get you fit for the summer
WELCOME TO THE AUGUST ISSUE!
W
here has this year gone? This month, on pages 4&5, we have a guide to help you lose any weight you may have put on over lockdown. We also have fantastic upcycling ideas for your garden using materials readily available. It may not have been as hot as expected so far, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look after your skin in the sun – check out page 6 for our handy tips. Has the Stamp Duty Holiday got you in a muddle? On page 13 we have a breakdown of what it means for you… Looking for interesting days out with the family now the school holidays are here? Check out our article on the most interesting
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PROPERTY NEWS
castles to visit in the UK this year. We have also put together some recipes for stunningly simple preserves and chutneys. At the end of the day, when you’ve had enough sunshine, you can relax with our breakdown of the most inspirational books of the 21st century and a guide to online distance learning. So, sit back and relax with your copy of this months magazine… As we are all getting used to the new normal, remember to Stay Safe and Stay Alert at all times. Jonathan Wheatley Editor
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t doesn’t work now. There’s a hole in it. It’s not fashionable. I don’t need it anymore… bin it. No, hold that thought. Whatever ‘it’ is probably doesn’t need to be dumped in a skip, it could become a decorative feature to brighten the backyard. Thousands of inventive gardeners have been breathing new life into household items by rescuing them from an uncertain future at the local dump by upcycling to create practical – and whimsical – focal points among the shrubs. For instance, an old chest of drawers can be repainted, the drawers lined and filled with potting soil to show off just about everything from trailing bedding plants to flowers and ferns. Got a lot of paint pots leftover from those DIY projects during lockdown? Why not paint them and use them as colourful planters for spring bulbs or herbs? And if you are having a new kitchen or bathroom fitted, why not rescue the porcelain pieces? There’s nothing quite like a cluster of phlox or geraniums in a white cistern, shower tray, or basin to brighten even the shadiest of corners in your plot. You could also, quite literally, throw the kitchen sink at the garden to make a quirky – and colourful talking point. Although
Why one man’s household cast-off is another man’s upcycled feature for the garden
recycling the loo might set the neighbours chattering for all the wrong reasons… But the thing is any household item can be given a new lease of life with just a little thought.
solar-powered lights and positioned at strategic points to bring added brightness to borders. For those at their wits’ end desperate to add a little colour and life to their minute courtyard garden, find yourself a pallet. Stand it on end, cover the back with a piece of landscape fabric, fill it with soil and there you go… a vertical garden ready for herbs, alpines and dainty bedding plants.
Old wellies which don’t fit or leak can become planters and would be particularly effective with a trailing plant such as ivy or lobelia cascading from them, while those old Crocs you wished you’d never bought can be filled with soil, hung Thousands of on the wall and filled inventive gardeners with winter pansies to provide a bit of have been breathing winter colour. new life into
Or you could scour your local recycling centre for a wooden stepladder, paint it a nice Cambridge Blue or grey, fix it to a wall, attach household items Take the handle off a some pots and it’s a plastic colander and tiered garden, while potentially you have a planted wheelbarrows hanging basket, complete with drainage and rusty bikes with a basket on the front points, while a battered tin bucket, which add colour and a certain industrial cum has rusted and leaks like a sieve, could rustic charm to barren spaces. make a new home for a dramatic hosta and give the slugs that dine off it And if you think those old dining room something to think about. chairs are past their best, think again. Simply give it a coat of wood stain or There’s no need to fork out for a bamboo protective varnish, remove the seat and windchime because you can drill holes in attach some chicken wire to create a the handles of that old stainless steel basket-like shape. Line that with sheet cutlery set great aunt Nora bought you as moss, inlay some landscaping fabric or a wedding present, thread them with even newspaper, fill with soil and plant twine, and hang them from a stick to away with Alpine leeks, Saxifraga and create a less clunky alternative. other ground-coverers. Old glass containers, particularly Mason jars, can be painted to use as planters or, more effectively, filled with twinkling
DIY projects, failed or just past their use-by dates, can also be revitalised with a little sympathy rather than a sledgehammer.
A brick-built barbecue, for instance, can be painted and have planted trays inserted instead of wire shelves while yesterday’s old kettle barbie, which has been sitting at the back of the garage gathering dust and rust since the arrival of the new gaspowered toy, can also be upgraded with a lick of paint to become tomorrow’s must-have garden accessory.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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LOSE THE LOCKDOWN WEIGHT Let’s face it, over the lockdown period we have all gotten a little less fit, and maybe a little rounder around the sides…
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espite the best efforts of Joe Wicks, as lockdown went on, people’s motivation started to drain, and without gyms and swimming pools open, and JustEat and FoodHub offering no-contact delivery direct to your door, a lot of people are now finding themselves in worse shape than three months ago. However, now some gyms are open again with outdoor space, we thought we’d take a look at some workouts and exercises to get your heart pumping and to get fit ready for the summer…
CARDIO
Jogging and cycling have been great for people to build their cardio over the past few months. To get the most from a cardio session, there are a few things you can do… HIIT – HIIT means High-Intensity Interval Training. Which in simple terms means switching between high-intensity work and lowintensity work, for example… 1-minute sprint – 2-minute jog – 1-minute sprint – 2-minute jog – 1-minute sprint, for a total of twenty minutes. Steady State – Steady State cardio is the best form if you have a high percentage of body fat to lose. The aim is to get your heart rate up enough and to get sweating and to stay there for 30-45 minutes.
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PROPERTY NEWS
10-minute warm-up on a rower, a stationary bike or a jogging machine, followed by 30-minutes at a steady pace that keeps your heartbeat up. Interval Training – Interval Training is the bridge between HIIT and Steady State. Mixing high-intensity bursts with longer steadier states of training, for example… 5-minute warm-up – 2-minute sprint – 5-minute steady pace – 2-minute sprint and so on…
RESISTANCE TRAINING
If you think resistance training is all about lifting heavy weights while grunting like a meathead, then think again. Resistance training combined with cardio is the best way to lose weight and tone up at the same time.
A lot of people are now finding themselves in worse shape than three months ago
Compound Movements – Compound exercises, otherwise known as full-body exercises, are the fastest way to burn fat and get toned. Squats – Squats are one of the best exercises for weight-loss. Start with a heavy weight on a barbell balanced on your shoulders. Bend your knees, while keeping your back straight, go as low as you can, and then push up. Deadlifts – Start with a barbell on the floor and your legs at shoulderwidth. With your knees slightly bent, and your back straight, grip the bar an equal distance apart and raise to standing position keeping your core tight. Incline Bench Press – With a weight bench set at an incline of 45 degrees, using a pair of dumbells
A lot of people are now finding themselves in worse shape than three months ago
or a barbell, lay back on the bench (you may need a partner with a barbell) and slowly raise them above your chest, keeping the motion fluid and steady. Pull-Ups – Using either a pull-up machine, which makes pull-ups easier using weights inside, or a standard pull up bar, grip it with either an overhand or underhand grip and pull yourself up towards the bar to your chin. Isolation Movements – Isolation movements, otherwise known as Isolation exercises, are those which involve just one muscle group. Cable Push-Down – Cable PushDowns are perfect for working the triceps. Using a pull-down machine, add a rope bar, grip at both ends, and while keeping your
core tense, pull down bending at the elbows. Triceps are more important than biceps if you’re looking for toned arms. Standing Lateral Raise – If you’re looking to improve your shoulders, Standing Lateral Raises are the best exercise for you. With a dumbbell in each hand (don’t go too heavy) raise each dumbbell to the height of shoulders outwards. Keep your elbows locked to keep your form good and avoid injury. Dumbell Fly – The perfect accompaniment to the Incline Bench Press, the Dumbell Fly will work other parts of the pectorals and shoulders. Lay back on a flat bench with a dumbbell in each hand. Keeping your arms straight, with a slight bend at the elbows, bring your arms together
in a wide arc above your chest. Standing Barbell Curl – Simply the best exercise for your biceps. Go with a heavy weight if you’re looking to build strength, or a lower weight if you’re looking to tone up. Standing with your legs shoulderwidth apart and your grip the same on the bar, slowly raise the barbell to your chin, and then slowly lower it again to the starting position. A mixture of cardio and resistance training will work best if you are looking to lose weight and tone up. Remember, for any weight/ resistance training, it isn’t how much you can lift, but how good your form is. Don’t be intimidated by the weights, mixing low weight with high reps, and high weight with low reps will offer you the best overall outcome.
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TOP TIPS FOR PROTECTING
YOURSELF IN THE SUN A bit of sun is what we all need at the moment as we slowly come out of our lockdown, but staying safe is still high priority because the sun, bright and wonderful though it is, can have its dark side too…
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lready on record as being approximately 1C hotter than the long-term average temperature of British summertime, we are emerging from lockdown feeling a trifle stifled yet grateful for the warm sunshine on our faces. Though this may make us feel good short term, long term there are potentially negative side effects from absorbing too much sun. Staying safe, as we’ve learned better than ever over the past few months, is paramount, so here are our top tips for staying safe during the hotter months.
STAY HYDRATED
* Whether you’re playing sports, travelling or just sunbathing, getting enough to drink is more important than you might think, particularly for your heart health because keeping the body hydrated helps the heart pump blood more easily through the blood vessels to the muscles.
Stay
HYDRATED THIS
er m m u S
Wearing white clothing means the heat from your body gets reflected right back towards it, whereas black coloured clothing absorbs everything coming in from the sun
SUNTAN LOTION
* Spread the lotion onto the skin thickly, not thinly, as it’s much better to be safe than sorry. * Apply a new batch onto the skin every few hours, and after you’ve been in the water, and apply it before you’re exposed to the sun, not during. * Keep a note of when you first opened your bottle of suntan lotion. Each bottle of lotion comes with an expiry date, which is symbolized on the bottle with a small image of an open jar with a number followed by an ‘M’ beside it, like ‘12M’, for instance. This means that, after 12 months, the ingredients in the lotion begin to decompose and can become inactive and ineffective.
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PROPERTY NEWS
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
* It’s a point that’s often overlooked or dismissed as trivial, but wearing the correct clothing under the sun is far from trivial. Wearing white clothing means the heat from your body gets reflected back towards it, whereas black coloured clothing absorbs everything coming in from the sun.
SUNGLASSES
* There’s a reason why the majority of good quality sunglasses today are polarized. With polarized sunglasses, the filter creates vertical openings for light, meaning that only light rays that approach your eyes vertically can fit through those openings. So, for instance, the lenses will block out all the horizontal light waves bouncing off a smooth pond or a shiny car.
RICH PICKINGS It’s time to hit the hedgerows and roadsides for nature’s free feast
We are heading into the season of mellow fruitfulness. It may not seem it in this crazy year, but in what seems like a bat of an eye, we are already into August, a month where we traditionally hang on to summer but mentally start to prepare ourselves for autumn. And that means bringing in the harvest – and not just those f ruits we slavishly grow in our gardens. It’s time to step beyond the larch-lap fence panels and hit the hedgerows.
Foraging has been around for thousands of years – indeed, the ability to find wild foods was the key to survival long before formal agriculture and animal husbandry – but has enjoyed something of a revival as we turn our back on the processed for more organic produce. Plus it’s free and fun . . . as long as you are prepared for the scratches and stinging nettles. So, what are we looking for? Well, blackberries, the fruit of the prickly brambles that are prevalent along country lanes and heathland, are the obvious favourite. Those beautiful deep purple-black berries have been ripening slowly in the summer sun with gentle rains helping them to swell and ready to pick in late July and August. Bursting with vitamin C, they can be eaten raw or cooked in pies, crumbles, jams and jellies with micro varieties creating subtly different flavours. However, it may seem obvious, but they need to be washed thoroughly before eating, particularly if picked from a busy roadside. Although lead is absent from car fuels, the exhaust fumes can still lay on thin-skinned fruit, even if health risks are considered low.
The same warning applies to another foraging favourite, elderberries. Easy to recognise as the small dark reddish black berries hanging from trees in neat clusters in August and September, this fruit is also packed with vitamins and is loved by cordial and winemakers. It also makes a nice hedgerow jam. Crab apples are another staple for the roadside huntergatherer between August and October. But, although it may be the ancestor of the cultivated apple, it should carry a health warning: Do not eat raw unless you wish to enter the British Gurning Championship - they can be extremely sour. Once cooked, though, they make an incredible sunsetcoloured jelly which is gorgeous on bread and as an accompaniment to many meats. Hazelnut trees are also common in woods and hedgerows, and if picked early in the season when green they are good to nibble on and are lovely roasted. Any later and you’ll have to beat off the squirrels … But don’t limit your foraging to fruit. Try weeds, such as the Greater Plantain, the rosetteshaped plant found in lawns, roadsides and waste ground. The young leaves are best for salads, and although older growth is tough, blanched and sautéed with butter they are quite tasty.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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TOP UK D CASTLES TO VISIT THIS YEAR
uring medieval times castles were built primarily to serve as protection for the nobility and were generally a symbol of the power of the ruling family at the time. Their intimidatingly majestic-looking structures and grounds served as an active and effective defence against potential intruders or attackers. Today they symbolise the power of history, and more particularly a nation’s desire to hold onto it. Castles radiate a special kind of glow, and in the evenings many literally do glow with outside lighting illuminating walls which have served so many leaders in our past, leaders who made us who we are today as a people.
When it comes to castles, beauty is enhanced with age, and here are the oldest, and most beautiful, castles to visit in the UK
Marvelling at them from the outside, though, is just the tip of the iceberg, for the sheer sense of age, tradition and antiquity is prevalent in the air when you step inside, and can thus only truly be experienced via a tour, or indeed a wedding. From the dungeons to the castle Keeps, these castles in the UK have it all and are probably some of the very best castles Britain has to offer.
WINDSOR CASTLE It’s difficult to establish definitively what the oldest castle in Britain is due to lack of evidence, but the oldest occupied castle (and not only in Britain but in the world) is Windsor Castle.
Inaccurately considered by many to be the oldest castle in Britain, Warwick Castle, built in 1068, is, like Windsor Castle, one of the more popularly visited in the UK
Built around 1070, Windsor Castle’s St George’s Chapel was the venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding on 19th May 2018. The castle occupies 13 acres of land and combines the features of a fortification, a palace and a small town. It was built after the Norman invasion of England by William the Conqueror, and since the time of Henry I, it has been used by all 39 reigning monarchs, being the longest-occupied palace in Europe.
TOUR TICKET PRICES Adult: £23.50 Over 60 / Students: £21.20 Under 17 / Disabled: £13.50 Under 5: Free Family (2 adults and 3 under 17s): £60.50
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PROPERTY NEWS
WARWICK CASTLE Inaccurately considered by many to be the oldest castle in Britain, Warwick Castle, built in 1068, is, like Windsor Castle, one of the most popularly visited in the UK, and again was built by William the Conqueror. Originally a wooden Motteand-Bailey castle, and then rebuilt in stone during the 12th century, the structure is situated on a bend of the River Avon enjoying scenic views. The facade opposite the town was refortified during the Hundred Years War, resulting in one of the most recognisable examples of 14th-century military architecture today.
TOUR TICKET PRICES
PORTCHESTER CASTLE, BEESTON CASTLE, AND COLCHESTER CASTLE These are some of the very oldest castle sites in Britain, and the historical significance of them stems from their structural origins. Portchester Castle still comprises habitable areas and was formed from a Roman fort built on the same site in the 3rd century. Though now inhabitable, Beeston Castle has a largely intact gatehouse, the site starting out as a Neolithic settlement in c3500 BC. Colchester Castle was previously a 1st Century Roman temple and was transformed into a castle between 10691076, making its Keep older than the Tower of London.
Castle, Grounds & Gardens: from £20 Standard Warwick Castle annual pass: from £35 Premium Merlin annual pass: from £139 A ‘stay overnight’ package is also offered.
OTHER PARTICULARLY OLD AND BEAUTIFUL CASTLES IN THE UK WHICH SHOULD BE VISITED AT LEAST ONCE: Cardiff Castle – constructed in the 11th Century. Edinburgh Castle – constructed in the 12th Century. Bunratty Castle – constructed in the 15th Century.
The oldest occupied castle (and not only in Britain but in the world) is indisputably Windsor Castle
Pictured: Edinburgh Castle
BERKHAMSTEAD CASTLE AND NORWICH CASTLE In line with the most reliable information we have, these two castles are officially the oldest castles in the UK, both on record as being built in 1067. Like what Warwick Castle was originally, Berkhamstead Castle is a Motte-and-Bailey castle, built to obtain control of a key route between London and the Midlands during the Norman conquest of England in the 11th century. Robert of Mortain, William the Conqueror’s half-brother, was probably responsible for managing its construction, after which he became the castle’s owner. William the Conqueror plays a key role in yet another one of Britain’s most beautiful castles, Norwich Castle, a royal fortification, which was founded in the aftermath of the Norman conquest of England when William the Conqueror ordered its construction in alignment with his campaign to subjugate East Anglia.
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SUMMER FRUIT AND VEG
JAMS AND CHUTNEYS With the incredible amount of fresh fruit on offer in the UK during the summer, here are some fantastic jams, preserves and chutney recipes to make at home…
750g Mixed baby tomatoes 175g mixed sweet peppers 350g red onion 1 tsp salt flakes 2 tsp mustard seeds ¼ tsp crushed chillies 2 garlic cloves 300ml cider vinegar 90g sultanas 225g light muscovado sugar
SPICY BABY TOMATO & SWEET PEPPER CHUTNEY This is an easy to make sweet, sour and spicy chutney that is perfect for autumn. It tastes even better with homegrown tomatoes and peppers from the garden…
METHOD 1. Add all the ingredients to a large preserving pan except the tomatoes. 2. Bring to the boil and simmer for 25 minutes. 3. Add the tomatoes and simmer for a further 35-minutes, stirring occasionally. 4. Ladle into hot jars and seal.
2kg plums, stoned and roughly chopped. 2kg white granulated sugar. 2 tsp ground cinnamon. 1 tbsp lemon juice. 3 cinnamon sticks. Knob of butter
CINNAMON-SCENTED PLUM JAM Plums are in abundance this time of year, and this recipe with a warming cinnamon twist is incredible on toasted teacakes.
METHOD 1. Put the plums in a large preserving pan and add 200ml water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-minutes. 2. Add the sugar, ground cinnamon and lemon juice and allow to dissolve without boiling. 3. Increase the heat and bring to the boil. After 5-minutes spoon a little jam onto a cold saucer and wait. If it wrinkles it is ready. 4. Remove from heat and add the cinnamon sticks and the butter. Let cool before ladling into jars and sealing.
8 Red Onions 1 Red Chilli 2 bay Leaves 25 ml Olive Oil 200 g brown sugar 2 teaspoons Mustard Seeds 150 ml Balsamic Vinegar 150 ml Red Wine Vinegar
CARAMELISED RED ONION CHUTNEY This really easy caramelised red onion chutney is perfect with cold meats and crackers any time of the year.
METHOD 1. Cut the onions and chilli into thin slices and put into a pan with the bay leaves and olive oil. Cook gently for 20-minutes. 2. When the onions have browned, add the sugar, vinegars and mustard seed, and simmer for 30-minutes until the chutney is thick. Stir occasionally. 3. Pour the hot chutney directly into hot, sterilised jars and seal.
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Image for illustrative purposes only
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INSPIRATIONAL BOOKS OF THE 21ST CENTURY Just twenty years in, the 21st Century has already gifted us with so many inspirational pieces of literary work worthy of comment. So we’ve picked f ive books, of different styles and genres, which embody this overarching theme.
THE KITE RUNNER
THE 4 HOUR WORK WEEK
KHALED HOSSEINI, 2003
This thriller, which became a New York Times Bestseller, focusses on the story of Amir, from childhood into adulthood, against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s political history. Centred around correcting the mistakes of his childhood, this story is based on the themes of guilt, bravery, and redemption, all against a dangerous, but all too real backdrop.
TIMOTHY FERRISS, 2007
This New York Times Best Seller self-help book tears up the traditional ‘retirement plan’, in favour of increasing income and controlling one’s own working hours. In the most recent edition, the author recounts his own drastic changes to his working week, whilst also providing case studies of families who have used this method as a framework for their lives.
PROUD
GARETH THOMAS, 2015
In 2009, Gareth Thomas, the Welsh Rugby star, came out as the sport’s first openly homosexual player. In this autobiography released a few years later, Thomas recounts the guilt created by keeping his sexuality a secret within the context of a culture dominated by masculinity, and the dangers that revealing his true self might pose to his career, and his personal life.
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PROPERTY NEWS
THE BOY IN THE DRESS
DAVID WALLIAMS, 2008
This children’s book, which has since been made into a play by the Royal Shakespeare Company, aims to break down gender barriers at a young age. Telling the story of Dennis, who enjoys cross-dressing, this novel informs youngsters that a hobby, such as this, is acceptable, and nothing to be ashamed of.
WHY I’M NO LONGER TALKING TO WHITE PEOPLE ABOUT RACE RENI EDDO-LODGE, 2018
This novel, which sparked international conversation, was originally a blog, focussing on how those who discussed racism in Britain were led by those who racism did not affect. In this novel, Eddo-Lodge explores racism throughout history, right up to what it is like to be a person of colour today. Such has been the positive reception since release, this novel has been used as a core material during the Black Lives Matter movement.
STAMP DUTY HOLIDAY: WHAT IT MEANS FOR SELLERS AND BUYERS Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a temporary holiday on stamp duty for property sales in England and Northern Ireland As part of the government’s plans to boost the economy, especially the property market, Sunak announced a temporary holiday on stamp duty until next March starting from the 8th of July. In reality, what the Chancellor has actually done is increase the stamp duty threshold to £500,000 for property sales in England Northern Ireland. This means anyone completing on a main residence under £500,000 from now until the 31st March 2021 will not pay any stamp duty, and anyone completing on a property over £500,000 will only be taxed on the amount above £500,000. A move which could save buyers as much as £15,000.
Stamp duty is a lump sum payment for anyone buying a property and is paid upon completion, so from now on, if you’ve exchanged, but not completed you will be eligible for the stamp duty holiday.
With more buyers out there, it is expected that more properties will come to the market. For example, Mr and Mrs X, who already own a home, will now have no stamp duty to pay for an onward purchase up to £500k. With the saving, they come to the market offering a property perfect to a first-time buyer who now has a larger deposit knowing they won’t have to pay stamp duty. Mr and Mrs X have the confidence that their property will get plenty of interest with more buyers out there looking to take advantage of the stamp duty holiday. First-time buyers, will now no longer have to figure stamp duty into their finances for a move, so will have more money to put towards a deposit, which may, in turn, increase their budget. First-time buyers who were just short of having a deposit may wake up this morning now ready to move.
What do you think about the news? Has it affected you? Let us know today…
This could be an average saving of £4,500 with just under nine out of 10 people buying a main residence this year paying no stamp duty at all
Y UT P D AY AM ID ST HOL
The Chancellor has suggested this could be an average saving of £4,500 with just under nine out of 10 people buying a main residence this year paying no stamp duty at all. Before the announcement, stamp duty was due on any property over £125,000, while first-time buyers didn’t pay stamp duty up to £300,000.
teetering, unsure of whether to make the jump due to financial reasons, will hopefully be tempted by the saving on offer, especially as, for now, it is only in place till the 31st March next year.
This is huge news for the property market affecting all sections. Buyers who were
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LEARN SOMETHING NEW THIS AUTUMN If during the lockdown you’ve had second thoughts about your career, or you want to beef up your CV, why not look into online distance learning.
O
nline distance learning offers you the opportunity to get an Undergraduate or Postgraduate degree from the comfort of your own home. Allowing you to add something new to your CV and move closer to your dream career.
An Open Degree isn’t for everyone, however, the positives are there for all to see
Distance learning is offered by countless universities in the UK. The most popular is The Open University, who have helped over 2 million people to get a degree. They offer Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees in a huge array of subjects including Arts and Humanities, Business and Management, Politics, Health Sciences, Education and many more. With over 120 undergraduate qualifications available, you will be able to find the right course for you and your career. And with 70% of Open University students working full time, you won’t be the only one struggling to manage your time. Luckily, The Open University has a handy Time Planner to check it’ll work for you.
The team at The Open University are fantastic and very helpful. If you have an idea where you want to get to in your career, their Careers and Employability service will guide you to the right course to get you there. Each course has a range of optional and compulsory modules which as a part-time student will be completed in a specific order over six years. However, if you are struggling for a year, you can defer. Each annual module is broken down into Teacher Marked Assignments (TMAs) and Examiner Marked Assignments (EMAs). TMAs are basically coursework assignments whereas EMAs are an exam based assignment done from your own home. Some degrees do have an actual exam where you will have to travel to a nearby Open University registered building to take your exam. At the start of each module, you will receive a study pack with study materials and your study guide. If you are proactive you can get ahead of the curve or you can follow the dates suggested to spread the module out over the term period. You will also have direct contact with a dedicated tutor, student forums and optional learning events to ensure you’re never alone. Once you finish your degree, if you choose, you can keep on studying and maybe even get a Masters in your subject. Having a degree on your CV will open doors that were previously closed during your career, however, you do need to check you have the right work/ life balance to complete the degree. ‘But I won’t get accepted for a student loan’ or ‘I can’t afford it,’ I hear you say… Well, actually, you can apply and will be eligible for Student Finance UK if you’re a UK national
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ORIGAMI
(or have settled status). If you’re currently working and are looking to study part-time you may be eligible too as long as the course intensity is 25% or more – which is around 18 hours a week. You will only start repaying your student loan when your income is over the threshold amount for your repayment plan. The threshold amounts change every April. The earliest you’ll start repaying your course is the April after you leave your course or the April 4 years after the course started.
With over 120 undergraduate qualifications available, you will be able to find the right course for you and your career
Registration for this year closes on the 10th September for courses starting in October, and you can order a prospectus online
Most students will only start paying once their income is over £511 per week before tax and deductions. Generally, once you are over the threshold you will pay back 9% of the total you are over the threshold. Your payments will be automatically taken out of your salary and you will be able to see the payments on your payslip. An Open Degree isn’t for everyone, it is a lot of hard work over a long period, however, the positives are there for all to see… If you can’t get a Student Finance loan you do have the option to pay upfront or in instalments. Notable alumni of the Open University include Lenny Henry, Mylene Klass, Talulah Riley and Meles Zenawi the 8th Prime Minister of Ethiopia.
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Walton on Thames
01932 222266
45a High Street, Walton on Thames, Surrey KT12 1DH CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Meet the team WALTON ON THAMES
Steve Turner Director Steve has worked as an estate agent in the local area since 1990. Steve also grew up in Walton and Hersham and attended Rydens School, therefore not only has great property knowledge, but he knows the local area inside out too.
Peter Brown Director Peter began his career in property as a negotiator in 1994 and worked for two local estate agents before opening HTB in 2003. Peter now lives in Effingham with his wife, two daughters and Baxter the labradoodle!
Linda Gyton Property Manager
Austin Hewett Negotiator
Linda grew up in Walton on Thames. From school Linda worked in banking before moving out of the area where she not only worked for a local letting agent but also built up her own portfolio of property. With over 10 years’ experience in property management, Linda has now returned to Walton and we are delighted she has joined the team at HTB. As a mum of two Linda leads a very busy life, however she still finds time to visit the gym and regularly swims before work! Keeping with the HTB tradition, Linda loves dogs and has a lovely Labrador, Maisy.
Austin is the newest member to the HTB family and joined early 2019 at the Walton on Thames branch. Austin has already learnt a great deal about the local property market and is enjoying working within both the sales and lettings teams. He is a bubbly character and is a hard worker who enjoys meeting new people and is building solid relationships with many of our clients. Previously, Austin was studying Carpentry at Brooklands College but, with most of his family already in the estate agency business, the move to HTB felt like a natural step.
Charlotte Dover Property Manager
Sherrie Edwards Senior Negotiator
Charlotte is a big asset to us and joined the team in 2013 as Property Manager. Prior to this, Charlotte worked within the Repossession Department for an established Asset Management company. Originally from Buckinghamshire, Charlotte moved to Surrey and studied locally at Rydens School, Brooklands College and attended the University of Surrey, where she studied Business and Marketing. Charlotte lives locally with her boyfriend and their Bulldog puppy, ‘Frank’.
Having worked in real estate in Australia, Sherrie did a little travelling before settling in Walton on Thames in 2010. Sherrie joined HTB in 2012 originally at the Walton on Thames office, and in that time has gained valuable experience and knowledge of not only the UK housing market, but the local area too. Sherrie is now a valuable member of the team at the East Molesey office and is now involved in both sales & lettings. In her spare time, Sherrie enjoys time with her partner James and their beautiful daughter, Ella.
sales@htbproperty.com | lettings@htbproperty.com
Harmes Turner Brown Crutchfield Lane, Walton on Thames £1,295,000
HTB are delighted to offer this beautifully presented and skilfully extended detached family which has been updated to a particularly high standard by the present owner. This wonderful home would suit a large family and also benefits a annex with bedroom, modern fitted kitchen and studio room, plus its’ own modern shower room. The main part of the house includes a welcoming entrance hallway, large family room with modern wood flooring, large open plan kitchen/ dining/family room with ‘velux’ windows bringing in natural light and large french doors giving access to the sunny rear garden. There is also the advantage of a separate utility and downstairs cloakroom. The modern wood staircase leads to the first floor landing where you will find a large master bedroom with ‘walk-in’ dressing room offering a large built in wardrobe and modern ensuite shower plus a further study making the perfect space to work from home. Also on the first floor are a further three double bedrooms & the modern family bathroom fitted with a modern white suite to include a double sink within vanity unit, wc, bath and separate shower cubicle.
Belgrave Close, Walton on Thames £579,500 stc Freehold
This semi-detached home is immaculately presented throughout and briefly includes entrance hallway with downstairs cloakroom, a bright and airy living room with open archway to the dining area which in turn is open plan to the stunning modern fitted kitchen which is a recent upgrade. Between the lounge and dining area are folding doors should you wish to separate the two living spaces. The turning stairs lead from the lounge to the first floor landing where you will find three generous size bedrooms and the modern white family bathroom. Externally the private rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with a selection of shrubs and a paved patio. Side pedestrian access is provided by an ornate gate with feature wall and there is also pedestrian access to the garage which is double in length giving ample space for a car, storage or a small gym. Parking is also included to the rear. These popular homes are rarely available and as such, internal viewings are highly recommended.
htbproperty.com
01932 222266 Molesey 0208 001 8385 Walton on Thames
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Felcott Road, Walton on Thames £650,000 stc Freehold
The accommodation includes entrance hallway, generous size through lounge/dining room with feature fireplace, laminate flooring and leaded light windows. The kitchen is fitted with a modern range of units and drawers with a lobby providing access to the downstairs cloakroom and access to the garden. On the first floor you will find two large double bedrooms and a small modern white bathroom. To the side is a garage which can be accessed from the garden which is mainly laid to lawn with mature shrubs and patio. There is pedestrian access to both sides and off street parking on the private driveway. Viewings are highly recommended for this lovely character home.
Trenchard Close, Hersham £675,000 stc Freehold
This family home has been well cared for by the present owner and briefly includes entrance hallway with downstairs cloakroom, a generous size through lounge/dining room with double doors to garden. The modern fitted kitchen is at the front of the home with a feature bay window and offers a space for a small table and chairs. On the first floor you will find three generous size bedrooms, two of which have built in wardrobes, plus one has a large en-suite shower room with a modern three piece suite. The family bathroom also includes a modern three piece suite. Stairs continue to the top floor where you will find the master bedroom and a further modern en-suite shower room plus a large range built in wardrobes. Externally the private rear garden is well presented, mainly laid to lawn plus private paved patio, and rear pedestrian access whilst the front offers private residents parking, In all, a lovely home in one of Hersham’s most favored locations.
sales@htbproperty.com | lettings@htbproperty.com
Harmes Turner Brown
Don’t just take our word for it...
“
THE WHOLE TEAM HAS BEEN EXCELLENT, VERY ATTENTIVE AND I’VE BEEN VERY SATISFIED. I know that you are treated exactly the same whatever end of the market you are, so it is across the board without a doubt.
Lizzie Elam Seller
“
THE ADVICE THEY GAVE WAS REAL QUALITY The relationship feels a lot stronger, we can go in there and quite openly discuss something that we’re looking to do, and get some real quality advice.
“
Satinder Sabherwal Seller
I HAVE ALOT OF TRUST IN HARMES TURNER BROWN
The reason I chose Harmes Turner Brown to sell my property is because I did trust them. I’ve known them a long time, my son worked with them for a time, so therefore I just couldn’t have picked anybody else.
Caroline Denham Seller
htbproperty.com
Molesey 0208
001 8385
45 Walton Road, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 0DP CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Meet the team MOLESEY
Richard Harmes Director
Scott Davis Senior Negotiator
Julie Mellish Senior Negotiator
Scott has recently joined our East Molesey team having worked as an estate agent for over 16 years and in the local area since 2008. Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and is well known for his warm friendly approach, always having a smile on his face. Scott lives locally and is currently refurbishing his family home which he shares with his wife, four children and a labradoodle, Dougie. Scott enjoys clay pigeon shooting, keeping fit and family days out.
Julie has recently joined our new office in East Molesey. Having had 22 years’ experience as an estate agent in the local area, Julie is keen to assist with making our new branch in Molesey as successful as our office in Walton – we have no doubt she will be a huge success. Julie has lived most of her life in the area and currently lives in Walton with her husband, two children and their Labrador puppy, Lottie.
Karen Glands Negotiator
Pam Stringer Negotiator
Karen has lived locally all of her life, growing up in Teddington and moving to Hersham in 1990 when she purchased her first bungalow. Karen then travelled the world, and lived in New Zealand for two years before returning to Walton. She currently lives in Walton with her husband and two teenage children. Both of her children attended primary school in Walton, and now keep her busy with their social schedules.
Pam enjoyed an extensive career as part of the senior management team with Camelot, the founder and operator of the U.K. National Lottery, before her career took her towards property. Pam has a keen interest in property having renovated many houses over the last 20 years. Pam lives locally in West Molesey where she is currently busy revamping her latest house whilst also managing her recently acquired allotment. Pam also has two young grandchildren and a very active black Labrador, so just as well she loves being busy!
Richard began his career in property at just 18 years of age in 1988 and by the age of 21 he had worked his way up to become branch manager. Working with large national corporate estate agencies has given Richard the skills needed in the industry, whilst working with independent market leaders has given him the passion, drive and winning mentality that has helped him succeed in today’s market. Richard grew up locally in Lower Sunbury and bought his first house in Walton on Thames at the age of 21. He now lives in Weybridge, where he and his wife, two children and their Golden Retriever, Wilson, have lived for the past 18 years.
sales@htbproperty.com | lettings@htbproperty.com
Harmes Turner Brown Fleetside, West Molesey Offers in Excess of ÂŁ425,000
We are pleased to offer this three bedroom end of terrace family home which is situated in a small mews backing on to Molesey Heath. The property is extremely well decorated throughout and boast many attractive features with bright and airy accommodation briefly comprising spacious entrance hallway, downstairs cloakroom, L shaped lounge dining room and a good size separate modern kitchen. On the first floor there is a generous master bedroom with built in wardrobes, a second double bedroom, a single bedroom and a modern refitted bathroom. Externally there is a larger than average South facing garden which mainly laid to lawn with direct access to the garage whilst there is an open plan front garden. Viewing are strongly recommended at your earliest convenience.
Mole Abbey Gardens, West Molesey ÂŁ650,000
We are pleased to offer this spacious semi-detached family home which boasts three double bedrooms with further scope to improve and extend into the loft and at the side subject to planning permission. The property is situated in a popular cul-de-sac location backing on to an open recreation ground and within a short distance of the river Thames tow path and village amenities. Viewings are strongly recommended at your earliest convenience for anyone that is looking for a home with plenty of potential and longevity.
htbproperty.com
01932 222266 Molesey 0208 001 8385 Walton on Thames
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
School Road, East Molesey ÂŁ500,000
We are pleased to offer this two bedroom period terrace home which is situated in popular road within the heart of East Molesey Village, close to all local amenities which also include the river Thames and Hampton Court train station. The property is light and airy and is presented in good decorative order throughout briefly comprises through lounge dining room with oak wood flooring and period style fireplace, separate modern kitchen with fitted oven and hob and a modern refitted white bathroom suite on the ground floor and on the first floor there are two double bedrooms. Externally is an enclosed picket fenced paved front garden and a North West facing rear garden which mainly laid with an artificial lawn with rear pedestrian access. Call 0208 001 8385 to arrange an appointment to view.
Spring Gardens, West Molesey ÂŁ575,000 stc Freehold
This accommodation comprises entrance porch, a spacious 23ft living/dining room with wooden flooring and stylish built in book shelving storage units. The living room leads onto a modern kitchen with a side door that open onto the garden and there is a spacious modern family bathroom. Upstairs on the first floor there are two double bedrooms both with built in storage space and a further double bedroom in the loft accessed from the second bedroom, again with storage space. Benefits also include sash style double glazing with the addition of window shutters and gas central heating throughout. Outside there is a walled front garden and a westerly low maintenance rear garden with mature plant and shrub borders with a Summer house. There is a detached garage which is accessed via a shared driveway. Potential to create more space STPP. This fantastic and much improved home is a must see to appreciate what it has to offer. Call HTB East Molesey on 0208 001 8385 at your earliest convenience to arrange a viewing.
sales@htbproperty.com | lettings@htbproperty.com
Our Community
Walton Litter Pickers
Walton Litter Pickers officially came together in April 2019. Having spent a few months picking up litter around the streets where we live with our dog, we noticed an increase in people commenting and offering to help. No one is going to say no to help from other likeminded people so we started the facebook group, quickly followed by the Twitter page. As things stand we have 210 local members on facebook and over 600 twitter followers. Not bad for a small town in North Surrey whose sole role is to pick up the junk other people drop!
young people. The local Cubs, Scouts and Brownie groups have done some amazing work litter picking around town. As well as helping to make our community cleaner, our activities encourage people to get outside into the fresh air and to get some exercise. We have seen longterm friendships develop and hope that our activities also improve the general environment and the pride people take in our community.
Measurable Success So far we have picked almost 6 tonnes of rubbish from the streets on Walton in 10 months! This is an amazing amount, considering we are all volunteers and can only pick when family commitments/work allows. We run group picks once per month. Please look at our twitter or facebook page for details.
#CommitToYourStreet To help engage with followers we developed the #CommitToYourStreet and #SpreadTheRedMap hashtags. We wanted to create a visual representation of the work that we do, whilst trying to encourage others to get involved. The concept took a little while to catch on, but we now have a nice big matrix of streets in Walton, and indeed its spread into Hersham and Molesey. In fact, it has spread beyond to areas of Kent, Cornwall, Nottingham, Germany, the USA and Australia!!
Keep Britain Tidy Big Spring Clean 2020 This years KBT Big Spring Clean takes place between 20th March and 13th April. Why don’t you get out and help keep our community tidy? Our coordinated pick will be one March 28th starting at 2pm from the Riverhouse Barn. The Molesey Litter Angels and Keep Herhsam Tidy groups will also start their litter picks at the same time. Please feel free to contact us on waltonlitterpickers@ gmail.com, @Litterwalton or just search for us on facebook
Involving the whole community Part of our aim is to engage with the whole community especially
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01932 222266 Molesey 0208 001 8385 Walton on Thames
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Thinking of letting your property? Find out more from our expert teams at HTB. BY LE HT T B
I
f you are considering letting
your home, why not contact our Lettings team to find out more
about the outstanding service we offer. From full management, rent collection or our standard intro service, we offer
exceptional advice at a competitive fee. We have a large database of private &
corporate tenants looking for both long term and short term lets.
People become Landlords for many
reasons and regardless of your reason, you need a letting agent you can trust.
Trust to give you accurate advice, clear
guidance on the process, legislation and tax, find you a reliable tenant and look after your property.
You need to know your investment is in safe hands. And you can rest assured with Harmes Turner Brown you and
your property are in safe hands with us. We have a dedicated team of experts at both our branches, for further details contact:
Lettings, Walton on Thames 01932 222266 (option 2) Lettings, East Molesey 0208 001 8385 (option 2)
Silverdale Avenue, Ashley Park LET IN WALTON ON THAMES A beautifully presented five bedroom family home situated on a fantastic westerly backing plot within the confines of the highly prestigious Ashley Park private estate.The double aspect lounge opens onto the family room with views to the rear garden. The kitchen/breakfast room is well appointed and open to a utility area. A notable feature on the ground floor is the annex which comprises of a good size double bedroom, en suite, dressing area and door to the garage. On the first floor you will find the master suite which includes a vast range of fitted wardrobes and en suite shower room. There are three further bedrooms on the first floor and another luxury shower room.
sales@htbproperty.com | lettings@htbproperty.com
Harmes Turner Brown Lettings
T LE HTB BY
Beauchamp Road, East Molesey LET IN EAST MOLESEY
BY LE HT T B
Annaleigh Place, Hersham LET IN HERSHAM
T LE HTB BY
Ashley Road, Walton on Thames LET IN WALTON ON THAMES
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Exclusively At Harmes Turner Brown
Giving you peace of mind every time Our innovative approach to marketing, together with our unrivalled customer care, makes us the right choice to market your property and guide you through your move
I’m marketing my property with Harmes Turner Brown How long have you lived there? 11 Years
Why did you buy the house? Because of it’s location near the school
What is the best feature? The open-plan kitchen dining space great for entertaining
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Whether you’re looking to sell or put your property up for rental, when you choose to market your property with Harmes Turner Brown, you can be confident that we’ll ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Selling your property A leading independent agent covering Walton on Thames, Hersham, Weybridge, East Molesey, West Moseley and Esher, the name Harmes Turner Brown is synonymous with trust, excellence and integrity. With decades of experience, specialising in all aspects of residential property, our friendly, enthusiastic and professional service ensures that our clients continually return to sell and buy through us. We also recognise the importance of marketing, so your property will be advertised on the major online property portals, our website and social media sites, as well as traditional placement in our window display. Exclusively to us in our area, your property will receive its very own FREE microsite showcasing a property video, OFSTED reports, and a property brochure. Sharing your personalised website across the social
networks widens the audience for your property, to find the right buyer and increasing the chances of a quicker sale. Our qualified database of home buyers will be notified of your property coming to market on their dedicated search websites where they can book viewings and offer feedback.
on the major online property portals, our website and social media sites, as well as traditional placement in our prominent window display.
Quite simply we endeavour to sell your home for the best price, in the shortest possible time, providing you an outstanding service, with a personal and friendly approach.
Letting your property When it comes to letting, as Harmes Turner Brown are members of certified accreditations, you can have peace of mind that your property is in safe hands as we ensure you are fully compliant with your landlord duties. We offer a comprehensive range of services for you to choose from including areas such as Tenant Introduction, Rent Collection, Gas Safety Checks, in-depth Inventory reports, Deposit registration, insurance-based Rent Guarantee and Legal cover policies. As with selling, when you choose to let through us, your property will be advertised
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The power of social media Your property will also receive its very own FREE property website showcasing a property video, OFSTED reports, and property brochures; something that we are proud to say is exclusive to Harmes Turner Brown in our area. In addition, our qualified database of tenants will also be notified of your property coming to market on their dedicated search websites where they can book viewings and offer feedback. All our tenants are fully referenced and vetted, making sure the highest of standards are met to find the right tenant for you. By sharing your personalised websites with family and friends across the social networks you will be widening the audience to find the right buyer or tenant for your property, increasing the chances of a quicker sale or rental.
High street window display
Print marketing: Property brochure, photography and floorplans COMMON MARKETING
Accompanied viewings (Drones, 360 tours)
Want to find out more about our range of exclusive services?
Portals and websites
Then please feel free to pop in or give us a call and we’ll be more than happy to help. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Video microsite on our website
Rightmove featured property advertising* Feature in our monthly magazine
UNIQUE with Harmes Turner Brown
When you choose to market your property with Harmes Turner Brown, you can be confident that we’ll ensure that everything goes smoothly
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ACTIVATE
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RECEIVE YOUR VERY OWN
EXCLUSIVE
PERSONALISED
SHARE
PROPERTY WEBSITE
SOLD
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SELL Feature on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Property video
All our applicants receive your property on their own search for a home website
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to move
NOW’S THE TIME
The time is now! The property market is bouncing back and with us, you will get the exceptional customer service and innovative marketing you deserve, including a FREE personalised property website to share with friends and family.
Take advantage of the stamp duty holiday and contact us today.
FREE
property website
Call us. Walton 01932 222266 | Molesey 0208 001 8385 Email us. sales@htbproperty.com | lettings@htbproperty.com
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