Local Agent Network January 2020 by thepropertycollection

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

PROPERTY NEWS

JANUARY 2020

HOME DÃ‰COR TRENDS FOR 2020

FROM UNUSUAL SHAPED MIRRORS AND SIMPLISTIC INTERIOR DESIGN TO THE MORE ABSTRACT KICKSTART 2020 START THE YEAR THE RIGHT WAY

NEW YEAR NEW HOME HOW WE CAN GET YOU MOVING THIS YEAR!

RECIPE IDEAS ENJOY A TAKEAWAY THE HEALTHY WAY!

SIX NATIONS KICKING OFF THE 21ST CHAMPIONSHIP

CONTENTS COVER STORY

LIFESTYLE

Home décor trends for 2020 We’ve compiled a list of the top trends to look out for in 2020

PROPERTY

15 16

New year, new home How we can get you moving this year!

Get yourself ready to rent We’ve put together five top tips to help put you in the best position possible this year Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market

Recipe: Vegetable Curry Stay on track with your healthy eating plan with this low-fat, vegetarian dish

The 92nd Academy Awards This will take place on 9th February; but just who will take a coveted trophy? A new plastic revolution Is enough being done to reduce the use of single-use packaging?

TRAVEL

FOOD

Kickstart your 2020 Start 2020 the right way and think afresh and focus on making positive changes

Gin and bear it! The season of goodwill to all men has passed, so how about a few days of goodwill to you?

SPORT

Guinness Six Nations 2020 The 21st Six Nations kicks off on the 1st Feb with Wales looking to defend their Grand Slam

WELCOME TO THE JANUARY ISSUE!

ll of us here hope that you enjoyed the festive period and had a fabulous New Year too. Start the new year as you mean go on, by planning how you can make 2020 your best year yet! If a move is on the cards, then we will be here to help guide the way, using our innovative marketing products to ensure your property gets the attention it deserves. And don’t forget to focus on you too! The excesses of Christmas and New Year celebrations can take a toll on your health and wellbeing, so take time now to look at how you can make yourself feel healthier and fitter. Inside we give inspiration and

PROPERTY NEWS

ideas on taking control of your lifestyle for the better. But if you’re not quite ready to fully get back to the daily grind and you fancy getting away for a break, take a look inside at our top value holidays away. As ever, there is plenty inside to keep you reading, such as top trends for the home in 2020 and how you can help protect the environment by reducing the amount of plastic you use within your home. Wishing you all the best for 2020 and beyond. Linda McKeown Editor

NEW NEW GET A FREE VALUATION Call us today for your free, no-obligation valuation. One of our expert valuers will pop round to give you an estimated valuation on your property based on local market value and their expert local knowledge. While with you, our valuers will show you what makes us stand head and shoulders above the other agents with our innovative marketing techniques and excellent customer service. Our team are on hand every step of the way offering you friendly advice to help maximise the potential of your property; making sure the right people see it to help you get the best possible price.

GET YOUR PROPERTY VISIBLE

You will want your property getting the greatest number of viewings from legitimate buyers as soon as possible, so you can get out there looking for your new dream home. When you market your property with us, you will receive a free website for your property with personalised virtual tours that your friends and family will be able to share to maximise the visibility of your property – and help to get you into a position to put in an offer on your new, dream home.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media marketing is the way forward. When you market your property with us,

YEAR, HOME you, your friends and your family will be able to share your property far and wide through all the major social networking sites. Your property may also be featured in our monthly magazine and on our social media accounts such as Facebook. We have invested in the most innovative marketing techniques that no other agent in this area can offer. Your buyer may not even know they are looking to move until they see your property (their perfect property) on social media!

PROPERTY VIDEOS

Not only will you get professional photos and floor plans, but you will also get your own personal property video, helping showcase the most sellable attributes of your home. Property videos are more immersive than standard photos and with our professional voiceovers, they are immensely more shareable over social media. A personalised property video can truly make your home stand out.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

As well as the most up-to-date marketing available for your property, we also pride ourselves on our friendly, expert customer service. Our team has expert local knowledge and a database of clients that

With the new year come thoughts of resolutions and goals to achieve. So, start 2020 the right way and think afresh and focus on making positive changes

will help make your move as simple and stress-free as possible. We will also share your property on all the usual property portals including Rightmove and have professional photos and floor plans from our experienced team.

RELIABILITY AND VIEWINGS

Our trusted team of local experts will be on hand – and on time – to every appointment, whether it be a viewing or a valuation of your property. We pride ourselves on accompanying all viewings to help show buyers around your property, giving honest answers to their questions. We want to find the right buyer for you, so you’re confident that when the time comes to make an offer on your dream home, that your sale is steady, simple and stress-free with no hidden surprises.

LOCAL ADVERTISING

Your buyer is more than likely someone local. So, as well as being on Rightmove and our own website, you will also feature in our window displays and may even be included in our widely distributed property magazine. We do this to help maximise the visibility of your property to gain optimal exposure to find you a buyer. Alongside our database of local ready-to-move buyers, we will get you moving this year!

“You will also get your own personal property video, helping showcase the most sellable attributes of your home”

WE KNOW YOUR BUYER As one of the most successful agents’ in your area, the chance is we will already know your buyer; or, more importantly, the owner of the property you want to buy. Because of this, we can negotiate the best price possible for your property and the dream home you wish to purchase. Our aim is to make the process as simple as possible and with open, clear and concise communication, we can make this happen for you today.

SUPPORT

Our team are local members of the community and they understand how stressful it can be selling your property and buying your dream home. That is why our team are on hand with all the support you need throughout the entire process – from the initial valuation, through to marketing and viewing and onto negotiations and sales progression when you have found your buyer. To us you aren’t your address, you are a person, and we want to help you move in 2020.

For more information and to book a free, no-obligation valuation, please talk to a member of our team today.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

HOME DÉCOR

TRENDS FOR

2020

From unusual shaped mirrors and simplistic interior design to the more abstract, we’ve compiled a list of the top trends to look out for in 2020

ABSTRACT DESIGN

redicted to become a massive trend is abstract design, with bold geometric prints, hand-drawn sketches and electric blocks of colour; it’s all about adding your own unique personality into your home. The beauty of abstract is the freedom that comes with it; the trend really allows you to become bold with your colour palette and with the combinations you use. Plus, you can make an abstract statement in any room in the house, from large canvases to duvet covers and statement rugs, or even a bold wallpaper design. A trend full of fun and colour!

SIMPLISTIC If bold and colourful isn’t for you, then this trend most definitely

PROPERTY NEWS

will be. Originating from the Nordic retreat ideas of 2019, this trend really does encapsulate a chilled out and relaxed style. To create a simplistic interior look, soft and neutral colour palettes are key, staying clear of cool grey, embrace warm neutral colours such as natural whites, soft browns and beige, (yes, it’s making its comeback). It also includes textures such as wood, wicker, sheepskin and wool. This trend can work in any setting; however, it works best in a living room or bedroom and if paired with a dark accent colour, you’ll create a simple, understated, yet comfortable feel. Overall, a great trend for those wanting a more calming and warmer décor.

A TAKE ON GLAMOROUS RETRO Last season retro was a big design-must and the new year is continuing this popular style trend, with its own bold and glamorous take. This reimagined trend channels thirties

Last season retro was a big design-must and the new year is continuing this popular style trend, with its own bold and glamorous take

UNUSUAL SHAPED MIRRORS

sophistication and elegance, with a small nod to the sexy seventies-style. To create this look, pick rich tones for key pieces, such as royal blue or ruby and mix in warm tones such as rose or bronze. Think of an elegant occasional chair with a scalloped shell-like back, a glam cocktail trolley or tables in burnished brass or glossy marble. You could also incorporate a retro feel by choosing an extravagant wallpaper or by adding plush textiles. Retro is perfect for those brave enough to mix textures, colours and shapes in the same place.

JAPANI The Japanese design element has been a regular amongst interior collections for the past few years. Incorporating rich silk textures, pretty bird motifs, oriental prints and structured furniture, this elegant style offers a real minimalist feel

and it is not hard to see why it has remained such a popular trend. This new take on Japanese style and rustic Scandinavian simplicity, however, is set to take off in 2020. The trend brings together the best of these two styles and takes on the less-is-more approach. To create the look, embrace calming tones, such as pale blue and muted green and for furniture think Scandi Woods with Japanese-style black plus dark woods to add depth. A simple touch could be to add lantern style lighting to the room. If done correctly, this interior trend really does create a calming and unique space.

Velvet has quickly become a must-have fabric in the home and 2020 is set to be no different

Let’s face it, (excuse the pun) mirrors have become an important part of our daily routines. We all check ourselves out in the mirror before leaving for the day and although historically they have been rectangular or round, 2020’s trend incorporates some more unusual shapes, including rhombus, trapezium and polygon.

MODERN LIGHTING Modern lighting is all about creativity; it really can make or break a room and is an easy way to make an effective impact to any space. There are many different options for modern lighting in your home, but it’s important to keep in mind the overall style and feel of your décor.

VELVET In the past few years velvet has quickly become a must-have fabric in the home and 2020 is set to be no different. Velvet beds and sofas are the most popular way of bringing this look to your home, both of which are great as stand-out pieces of furniture: they bring comfort, yet a stylish flair to any space. If you’re after a small touch, why not add a velvet throw, cushions or bedding?

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

With the new year come thoughts of resolutions and goals to achieve. So, start 2020 the right way and think afresh and focus on making positive changes

KICKSTART YOUR 2020 T

op of the list for new year resolutions has to go to the mantra of ‘lose weight’ and ‘stop smoking’; but whatever your new year resolutions, the key is to make your goals achievable, otherwise they will ultimately fail before you even get started.

And why not organise a group activity to encourage you to stay committed? A study by the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine suggests that exercising with a group makes people feel physically and mentally better than if they were working out alone: “The communal benefits of coming together So, whatever your aspirations, whether with friends and colleagues, and doing it’s to get fit, try a new something difficult, hobby or make that move, while encouraging one Researchers take time to think about another, pays discovered that what you can do to make dividends beyond working out in a a change. exercising alone,” says group actually lowers lead researcher Dr Dayna Yorks. “The stress by 26 percent GET FIT & HEALTHY findings support the while significantly Changing your concept of a mental, improving quality appearance can often physical and emotional of life help build confidence, approach to health whether it’s just a fresh that is necessary.” new haircut or something more drastic like shedding some pounds. In fact, researchers discovered that Of course, this can’t happen overnight, so working out in a group actually lowers if getting fit and losing weight is a goal, stress by 26 percent while significantly think about how you can achieve this. Are improving quality of life. you going to join a gym or start walking the school run or to work? Planning in Advice from the NHS says that those aged exercise to your routine will help ensure 19-64 should aim to be active every day that you stick with your new plan. and do at least 150 minutes of moderate

PROPERTY NEWS

aerobic activity such as cycling or fast walking every week – as well as strength exercises on two or more days a week that work all the major muscles, such as legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms

DITCH SMOKING According to the Office of National Statistics, 14.7% of people aged 18 years and above in the UK smoked cigarettes in 2018. This equates to approximately 7.2 million people in the population; and is a decline of more than five percentage points since 2011. Before quitting, it’s important to ensure that you actually want to quit and remind yourself why, each day. Taking a more positive approach will encourage you to keep going – whether you want to quit straight away, or by naturally cutting down on your usage. There’s also support available from your local stop smoking service – www.nhs.uk/ Service-Search/Stop-smoking-services/ LocationSearch/1846. Data shows that you’re up to four times more likely to successfully quit smoking with their

expert help and advice. You can also call the NHS Smokefree helpline on 0300 123 1044.

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT Taking up yoga can be a great way to kick start your new year with a focus on positive energy, and there are plenty of free tutorials online. Take in your surroundings by walking a little slower and appreciate what is going on around you, rather than rushing through each day. However, it doesn’t all have to be about changing habits; just trying different things can help with taking time out and having some ‘me time’. Keep your life positive and aim to be thankful for at least one thing every day – even if it may seem like a small thing, such as a hug from a loved one.

Data shows that you’re up to four times more likely to successfully quit smoking with their expert help and advice

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU WANT If making new resolutions are not for you, why not write list of things you want to accomplish throughout the year? These can range from learning to play a new instrument, to donating blood. And if your 2019 wasn’t as great as you were hoping, look back, reflect and think why? You may find that 2020 could be a

great time for a career change, starting a family, going on an adventure or finding your dream home. It’s all about what makes you happy and how you can achieve it!

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

• Joaquin Phoenix (Joker) • Adam Driver (Marriage Story) • Leonardo DiCaprio (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) • Robert De Niro (The Irishman) • Jonathan Pryce (The Two Popes)

Our favourite:

Joaquin Phoenix (Joker)

ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE • Brad Pitt (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) • Tom Hanks (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood) • Shia LaBeouf (Honey Boy) • Jamie Foxx (Just Mercy) • Al Pacino (The Irishman)

Our favourite:

Tom Hanks (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood)

ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE

• Renée Zellweger (Judy) • Scarlett Johansson (Marriage Story) • Charlize Theron (Bombshell) • Lupita Nyong’o (Us) • Saoirse Ronan (Little Women)

Our favourite:

Saoirse Ronan (Little Women)

ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE • Jennifer Lopez (Hustlers) • Laura Dern (Marriage Story) • Scarlett Johansson (Jojo Rabbit) • Margot Robbie (Bombshell) • Florence Pugh (Little Women)

Our favourite:

Margot Robbie (Bombshell)

BEST PICTURE

• The Irishman • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood • Marriage Story • Parasite • The Two Popes • The Farewell • Jojo Rabbit • Bombshell • Joker

Our favourite: Joker

PROPERTY NEWS

THE 92 T ACADEMY AWARDS ND

Excitement is already building for the 92nd Academy Awards which take place on 9th February; but just who are in the running to pick up a coveted trophy?

he Academy Awards honours the best films of the year and this year’s event will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, at 11.30pm GMT. Presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the ceremony is an eagerly-awaited event with actors across the globe hoping to bag one of the prestigious awards. Despite the event not taking place until next month, there has already been much talk about the contenders for this year’s Academy Award winners for several months. With this year’s Nominations Announcement having took place on 22nd January 2019, we take a look at some of the hopefuls who are in the running to bag a trophy!

ENJOY A TAKEAWAY THE HEALTHY WAY!

Vegetable Curry

You donâ€™t need to give up your curry nights just yet; stay on track with your healthy eating plan with this low-fat, vegetarian dish Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 35 minutes Serves: 4 Nutrition: 207kcal per serving

INGREDIENTS 1-2 tbsp red Thai curry paste 500ml low-sodium vegetable stock 2 onions, chopped 1 aubergine, diced 75g red lentil 200ml can reduced-fat coconut milk 2 red or yellow peppers, deseeded and cut into wedges 140g frozen peas 100g bag baby spinach, roughly chopped brown basmati rice and mango chutney, to serve

METHOD 1. H eat the curry paste in a large non-stick saucepan with a splash of the stock. Add the onions and fry for 5 mins until softened. Stir in the aubergine and cook for a further 5 mins. Add a little more stock if it starts to stick.

This recipe, and more, can be found at www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/1507675/summer-vegetable-curry Image for illustrative purposes only

2. A dd the lentils, coconut milk and the rest of the stock, and simmer for 15 mins or until the lentils are tender. Add the peppers and cook for a further 5-10 mins. Stir through the peas and spinach and cook until spinach has just wilted. Serve with rice and mango chutney.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

GIVING THE I

TO A NEW PLASTIC REVOLUTION

t took a series of heart-wrenching images from the BBC’s Blue Planet II series to make people sit up and realise scientists hadn’t been over-elaborating when they claimed the planet was choking on plastic.

But while a survey conducted a little over a year ago revealed that 88 per cent of people interviewed had changed their habits, it is a sad indictment on society that it took footage of an albatross feeding pieces of plastic to her chicks on a TV programme to ram home a message A sperm whale trying to eat a discarded scientists had been pushing for decades. plastic bucket; the remains of an albatross Attenborough’s dire warning went from which died from living room to ingesting a plastic bag boardroom in the blink of in the Antarctic; fish an eye. But the Last year’s major dodging discarded development and recycling breakthrough plastic in the ocean… viability of alternative came with the That, coupled with Sir packaging doesn’t outlawing of singleDavid Attenborough’s happen overnight and use containers, hard-hitting message at it’s only now – almost two showcased by the ban the end of the episode years later – that on water bottles at the – the fourth mostinitiatives and substitutes Glastonbury Festival watched programme in are becoming British TV history – commonplace. prompted a lot of finger-pointing; mostly in the direction of For example, the first crisp packet supermarkets and food producers. recycling scheme has been launched by Walkers, who asked the public to return empty packets for specialist recycling. More than 8,000 collection points have been set up and, when returned, the bags are cleaned, shredded and turned into plastic pellets to make products such as outdoor furniture. Coca-Cola, committed to removing all unnecessary or hard-to-recycle plastic from its portfolio, revealed their first step by abandoning the use of shrink-wrap packaging for multi-buys in favour of a paperboard clipping arrangement which they hope to have rolled out across Europe by next year. Last year’s major recycling breakthrough came with the outlawing of single-use containers, showcased by the ban on water bottles at the Glastonbury Festival. However, the big five supermarkets, convenient whipping boys when it comes

PROPERTY NEWS

GREEN LIGHT Since the horrifying images shown on Blue Planet II, consumers have become more conscious about the lasting damage of single-use packaging, with supermarkets bearing the brunt of criticism. So, how have they reacted?

to over-use of plastic – particularly shrinkwrapping individual items to prolong shelf life – were ahead of the game. WAITROSE had already implemented their ‘reuse and refill’ scheme in a trial at a store in Oxford, where customers were encouraged to fill their own containers with pasta from large jars, beer on tap, and pick ‘n’ mix frozen fruit. More than 90 per cent of their customers gave it the thumbs up, and it has been extended to other stores. Customers will soon be invited to bring in their own containers for meat, fish and cheese, while Waitrose aim to replace all single-use fruit and vegetable bags with a home compostable alternative… and ensure all their own-label cards, wraps, crackers, tags, flowers and plants are glitterfree before this Christmas. TESCO are about to trial a new delivery scheme called Loop, a modern take on the milkman where products ordered online will be delivered in reusable containers to be collected, cleaned and refilled. They are also targeting excessive packaging – half-filled crisp packets and cereal boxes – and those who don’t reach their standards won’t reach the shelves. They also want to scrap plastic bags with home deliveries; remove plastic cutlery from their own ‘on the go’ meals; and are using their flagship Extra store in Cambridge as a trial store to reduce waste. MORRISONS have been at the forefront of getting customers to use reusable containers and have also trialled a reuse and refill scheme for pasta, seeds and frozen fruit. They boast they have the highest proportion of loose fruit and veg sales of any supermarket and are trialling reverse vending machines at selected stores to encourage customers to return plastic bottles. They also want to introduce

a household cleaning ‘bottle for life’. SAINSBURY’S, bottom in Greenpeace’s 2018 survey on plastic policies, have retaliated by removing lightweight loose produce bags, scrapping plastic trays from certain products, encouraging customers to bring in their own containers to meat and deli counters, replacing plastic film on vegetables and fruit with a recyclable alternative and swapping PVC, black plastic and polystyrene trays with an ecofriendly alternative. They also aim to trial areas where customers can remove unwanted packaging and leave it for recycling, as well as piloting deposit/ return schemes. And they are looking at options to replace plastic milk containers. ASDA say that since early 2018 they have removed 6,500 tonnes of plastic – calculated at roughly 600 million empty plastic bottles – from their own-brand products and are trying a new coating on fresh produce which could double shelf life. They have removed wrapping from greetings cards and all unnecessary films, trays and windows; encouraging customers to bring their own reusable fruit and veg bags, and selling refillable cleaning products.

The first crisp packet recycling scheme has been launched by Walkers, who asked the public to return empty packets for specialist recycling

However, supermarkets acknowledge they can’t do it on their own. Shoppers need to change their own habits – particularly when bearing in mind, that despite the plastic bag tax, more than 1.75 billion were still sold by major retailers in the 12 months to April 2018 – to ensure footage of wildlife shrouded in discarded plastic doesn’t just become a chapter in TV history.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

GIN & BEAR IT! The season of goodwill to all men has passed, so how about a few days of goodwill to you? Here’s some suggestions for a few days away, whether you fancy chilling out, the call of the wild, or a gin-fuelled bonanza!

ongratulations! You did it… you survived Christmas and the new year with your sanity, health and bank balance relatively intact.

No-one bought the kids a drum kit or a trumpet, no-one contracted food poisoning from your cold buffet on Boxing Day, grannie’s sherry intake bordered on the acceptable, there was no need to involve ACAS during charades, and you didn’t disgrace yourself on New Year’s Eve! Here we are in January and, let’s face it, it’s all gone a bit flat. It’s grey and miserable, Easter and the promise of spring aren’t even on the horizon, and even Netflix can’t provide inspiration. So, if you didn’t use all your Christmas budget, what about a cheeky break? Some ‘you’ time? A bit of R and R with the emphasis on aaaahhh rather than aaarrgghh…

TAKE TIME FOR ‘YOU’ TIME

It’s cold outside, but the best place to properly chill is a spa break, and there are plenty from which to choose, whether you’re after a day’s pampering, a blissful overnight stop or a couple of days to totally unwind. For example, the Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel Golf & Spa in Whitchurch, Shropshire offers The Ultimate Spa-cation, three nights bed and breakfast, two 55 minute treatments, dinner on the first day, afternoon tea on the second, bottle of Prosecco, and full use of the facilities for £244.50 per person. For one night, how about the Blue Harbour Health Club and Spa at The Chelsea Harbour Hotel in south-west London, where £109 gets you bed and breakfast in a suite, robe, towel etc and full use of the spa facilities. Plus, a smoothie don’t forget the smoothie! Spa Days are widely available and prices vary, although the Morning Roof Top Spa Experience at Rudding Park, Harrogate – an Elysium Collection spa – which includes robe etc, use of the indoor swimming pool, juniper log sauna, bucket shower, thermal experiences and a drink and snack voucher, looks intriguing at £64. Further spa breaks are listed on spabreaks.com

It’s cold outside, but the best place to properly chill is a spa break, and there are plenty from which to choose

PROPERTY NEWS

If the weather isn’t an issue and The Great Outdoors is your thing, head out to the forest to take in the sharp, fresh woodland air and bed down in your own cosy, log cabin. Forest Holidays (forestholidays.co.uk) operate at 11 sites in Britain and offer six types of accommodation from tree-houses to self-catering; all featuring logburner and hot tubs, for weekend breaks or longer. For example, a Golden Oak cabin in Keldy Forest, north Yorkshire costs £405 for a family of four on a midweek break (Monday to Friday) and £445 in Sherwood Forest. Forest Holiday have sites at Ardgartan Argyll and Strathyre (Scotland), Beddgelert (Snowdonia), Blackwood Forest (Hampshire), Cropton (north Yorkshire), Deepark (Cornwall), Forest of Dean (Gloucestershire), Keldy (north Yorkshire), Sherwood Forest (Nottinghamshire) and Thorpe Forest (Norfolk).

Alternatively, there is a straightforward gin festival at Manchester Cathedral on February 21-22 where, again, more than 100 selected gins are available to taste and, with tickets only £12.50 and two nights in a Manchester hotel from £120 at the ibis Styles Manchester Portland, you’ll probably only get an alcohol-induced headache, rather than a financial one. If gin’s not your thing, there’s always Winchester’s Cocktails Week (February 3-9), the Yorkshire Pudding Festival (February 1) in Leeds, or back to Bristol on February 22 for the Prosecco Festival at The Passenger Shed. Alternatively, there’s the family-friendly Lightopia Festival (January 22 -March 1) in Chiswick House and Gardens, London or the London Classic Car Show at Olympia (February 22) if you fancy a breather in the capital. Failing that, York holds the annual Ice Trail (February 1-2), when the streets of the historic city are filled with ice sculptures and, two weeks later, the city pays homage to its past with the 36th Jorvik Viking Festival – a week-long celebration (February 15-23) of the Scandinavian invaders who settled in the area. Expect living history encampments, markets, tours. Two nights at the Staycity Aparthotel starts from £155 for a family of four (expedia.co.uk).

If the weather isn’t an issue and The Great Outdoors is your thing, head out to the forest

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GIN! Of course, the best breaks are those centred around an event: a show, a one-off event or… a gin-tasting extravaganza! The Gin To My Tonic Festivals bring together 100 different gins – as well as selected vodkas and rums – from across the world, promising “a voyage of gin discovery” with tastings, premium mixers and live entertainment. In February, they are being staged at the town hall in Stoke (February 1) and the Guildhall in Winchester (February 29), while the Gin Tasting Bristol takes place onboard Brunel’s steam ship, the SS Great Britain, on February 14. For this Valentine’s Day treat, the Gin To My Tonic team will introduce specially selected gins in a five-course tasting menu, with ‘courses’ coming every 30 minutes with their own back-story, appropriate tonic and garnish.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

GUINNESS SIX NATIONS 2020 PREVIEW T

he annual Rugby Union competition between England, France, Wales, Scotland, Italy and Ireland begins this February. The tournament was first played in 1883 as the Home Nations Championship between England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales and became the Five Nations with the addition of France in 1910. Italy joined in 2000 to create what we now know as the Six Nations. After a disappointing World Cup for all the teams – despite an appearance in the final for England and semi-final for Wales – all six teams will look to rebuild and move on at this years’ Six Nations. Let’s look at all six teams before the tournament kicks off.

ENGLAND Eddie Jones’ England haven’t got a lot of work to do. The team that reached the World Cup final are still together; however, he will hope for stronger performances than the one in the final at the World Cup when they were outplayed and ultimately beaten by a strong, but uninspiring, South Africa side.

WALES Warren Gatland has left, and Wayne Pivac has come in as head coach. He says he is planning an evolution of Wales’ playing style. Gatland’s Wales were built on a strong defence, something not lost on Pivac who will concentrate on the transition between attack and defence. Will this be a more attack-minded Wales than we’ve seen recently?

The annual Rugby Union competition between England, France, Wales, Scotland, Italy and Ireland begins this February

PROPERTY NEWS

The 21st Six Nations Championship kicks off on the 1st February with Wales looking to defend their Grand Slam

SCOTLAND Scotland had a disappointing World Cup. Besides two good halves – one against Japan and one against England – this current squad seems to lack in morale. With some of their best coaches being poached by Union squads, there is a lingering doubt that the current coaches will get the best out of the squad. The big question is: will Gregor Townsend be able to motivate his team and get them fired up for the Six Nations?

IRELAND Andy Farrell has come in as head coach after a successful stint as defence coach. The players are trying to get the disappointment of the World Cup off their chests with their respective teams and most them have been performing well. The question now is: will Farrell blood a new generation or stick with the tried and tested players such as Johnny Sexton and Cian Healy?

FRANCE With the new joint head coaches, Raphael Ibanez and Fabien Galthie, France are aiming to muster a challenge for the title this time after last year’s fourth place finish. They produced some moments of brilliance at the World Cup, only to end up holding onto games, so will have to gain confidence to see out important games.

ITALY Conor O’Shea has left over six months early, leaving Franco Smith as interim head coach. Will Smith use the Six Nations to press his case to be given the job full time? Will the cancelled match against New Zealand at the World Cup still be on their minds? With Italy, you never know.

The Six Nations kicks off on the 1st February with matches live on ITV and the BBC.

GET YOURSELF

READY TO RENT With the number of families renting increasing, there is more competition than ever to get your dream rental home. We’ve put together five top tips to help put you in the best position possible this year… HAVE A DEPOSIT READY & KNOW WHAT’S AFFORDABLE

take photos on your smartphone so you can send them to us immediately and avoid slowing down the process.

efore you start looking, use an online calculator to work out how much you can afford. Estate agents have strict guidelines and there is no point looking at properties which you will get declined for based on your income. We don’t need to know your outgoings, just your income and will require proof in the form of payslips or bank statements. Remember though, a deposit is needed to move forward with any rental and usually a smaller deposit (which is taken off the final deposit invoice) to take the property off the market, so make sure you have the right finances available.

GET YOUR PAPERWORK READY Once you have found the perfect property, we will request forms of ID, bank statements, payslips, etc. If you have these somewhere safe already,

When you have your deposit ready and your paperwork in order, as your local estate agent, register with us. If we know you are ready to move and not just browsing, we can let you know about properties before they go onto property portals. This can be beneficial as there will be fewer people viewing the property and less competition for the property. Make yourself available for viewings as soon as you hear about a new property to avoid missing out. Most people make themselves available only at weekends: if you can get out and about during the week, you may just find you beat the others!

Remember a deposit is needed to move forward with any rental

through a referencing process. This process can be daunting: however, if you answer all questions quickly and honestly and provide the details needed, this can be done in a matter of days. Make sure you also notify any of the people who will act as referees – such as employers, friends or family members – so that they can fill out the references as soon as possible.

BE TIMELY COMPLETING THE REFERENCING PROCESS

HAVE REFERENCES IN PLACE Before we can confirm a move-in date, by law you will need to go

The longer the referencing process takes, the longer a landlord or estate agent are not taking any other viewings on the property. Complete all the referencing promptly when requested. This helps show the landlord that you are doing everything you need to, so that if anything pops-up during the referencing, you will have a better chance to explain any situation – and get a guarantor if needs be.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RENTING AND TO SEE AVAILABLE PROPERTIES, PLEASE COME AND SEE US

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

LD SOSTC

LD SO Harlington £445,000

Dunstable Road, Toddington £230,000

No Upper Chain! This modern extended family home is located in ‘Old Flitwick’ and is situated in the quiet cul de sac, Sycamore Close. Flitwick Moor is a short walk away as is the train station. The accommodation includes a hallway, cloakroom, 27ft long kitchen & dining room and living room. On the first floor are four bedrooms, a shower ensuite to the master and a family bathroom. There is a private garden, integral garage and parking for 2/3 vehicles.

Stepped back from the road with a small garden and a porch, there is a wood burner in the living room, over the past 2 years the kitchen has been refitted as has the bathroom. Underfloor heating to the ground floor and the energy efficient boiler is less than 2 years old. Upstairs are the TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS. The courtyard garden to the rear is private and enjoys a southerly aspect with a really useful brick built barn.

Y LL BL E SI W N & ED SE ED ENT IC S PR PRE

IN O A N CH R PE UP Luton Offers in Excess of £170,000

Leagrave £328,000

Situated in a quiet cul de sac is this well-proportioned two-bedroom first floor maisonette. The property has been redecorated and re floored throughout in preparation for sale and is in immaculate condition. There is a fitted kitchen, living room, two bedrooms and a refitted bathroom. Major benefit is the private rear garden. The lease has recently been renewed to 144 years and the EPC rating is C.

Tucked away in a quiet cul de sac on the edge of Leagrave within easy access to all the facilities including the mainline train station. Many improvements made to create a well presented & modern home. Hall, cloakroom, living room, dining room, kitchen three bedrooms and bathroom. The wrap around drive to the front and side gives off road parking and there is a detached garage. Behind is the landscaped rear garden that is a good feature of this home.

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IN O A N CH R PE UP

Frenchmans Close, Toddington £232,000

Beautifully presented property that has been extended and re modelled. Porch, living room, gorgeous family space with sitting area and dining room which opens to the stylish refitted kitchen. Master bedroom with an ensuite shower room, two further bedrooms and a refitted luxury bathroom. Driveway to the front, the garage has been converted with a store to the front and the rear is a study. Nice rear garden.

Priced to attract attention and for an early sale is this lovely home ideal for a first purchase or investment buy. It is tucked away in a small cul de sac and enjoys a private garden and off road parking. The accommodation is well presented and feature an entrance hall, living room with double doors into the garden, a kitchen/ dining room, TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS and a refitted bathroom.

IN O A N CH R PE UP

SO ST LD C

Meadow Road, Toddington £395,000

Toddington £489,500

Harlington £215,000

A lovely detached home having accommodation including an entrance hall, cloakroom, living room, dining room, refitted kitchen and separate utility. On the first floor is the master bedroom and shower ensuite, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom. The wide frontage gives off road parking with a paved driveway, there is an integral garage and private rear garden.

Charming extended two bedroom cottage in a private location with NO UPPER CHAIN. The village has plenty to offer, it is only a short walk away from local amenities, schools and mainline Train Station serving Bedford - St Pancras. The property has character features throughout.

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Toddington £199,950

Flitwick £610,000

This is quite a remarkable apartment - it offers so much more than you imagine. The spacious and well presented interior has an entrance hall, large living/dining room, there is a refitted kitchen and bathroom and two DOUBLE bedrooms. What makes it really special is the HUGE GARDEN.

This charming extended home is situated in the centre of Flitwick and has plenty of space to offer. The accommodation comprises of an entrance hallway, dining room, sitting room, kitchen/family room, four double bedrooms, a shower en-suite and a family bathroom. Major benefits include a utility room, cellar, double glazing and double garage! There is off road parking and a private rear garden.

LD SOSTC

R PE UP IN O A N CH

Toddington £248,995

Frenchmans Close, Toddington £499,500

A perfect first home or investment. It is tucked into a very small cul de sac and has 2 parking spaces immediately in front of the house. The accommodation includes an entrance porch, living room, refitted kitchen/dining room and upstairs are two double bedrooms and the bathroom. Being the end of the terrace the garden is wider than normal and running the full depth of the house are 2 bespoke sheds giving loads of storage facilities.

Featuring a living room with a log burner, a snug/home office and across the back of the property is a WOW kitchen opening to the dining/family space. Part of the garage has been converted to enable a large utility room off the kitchen. Upstairs is the master bedroom with an ensuite shower, three further bedrooms and the family bathroom. A wide frontage gives off road parking side by side for convenience and to the rear is an enclosed garden with the focus on easy maintenance.

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Flitwick £294,000

Toddington £415,000

This extended four-bedroom home is situated in the centre of Flitwick. The accommodation includes an entrance hall, living room, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room and cloakroom. On the first floor are four bedrooms and the family bathroom. The plot has an enclosed private rear garden and a single garage plus parking. The property also benefits from double glazing and gas central heating.

This deceptively spacious semi detached home with a deep frontage, has been improved considerably including refitting the kitchen, the living room has been adapted to give more space and they have refitted the ground floor shower room and the bathroom. There is off road parking and an enclosed rear garden.

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D AN BR EW N

Meppershall £750,000

Toddington £425,000

A stunning detached bungalow set off the road and behind remote controlled entrance gates. It has been built to a high standard with excellent attention to detail to create a very special home. Garden to the rear and a large private driveway giving off road parking for several cars.

A quiet location for this four bedroom home. The accommodation includes an entrance porch, cloakroom, large living room and open plan kitchen/dining room. On the first floor are four bedrooms and a family bathroom. A major benefit to this property is the ANNEXE which offers extra space and has a shower en-suite. There is a private enclosed rear garden and a paved driveway to the front.

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SO ST LD C

Houghton Regis £245,000

Caldecotte £288,500

This is a really well presented two bedroom home that is sure to appeal to any buyer looking for something a bit special where they really don’t have to do much to it. The present owners have really enhanced the accommodation by refitting the kitchen and bathroom. There is double glazing and gas central heating. Garage, driveway and privately enclosed garden.

The location of this apartment is just wonderful when you walk into the apartment the first words are “just look at that view”. The accommodation briefly comprises; entrance hall, open plan lounge/kitchen with french doors to a balcony, en-suite to master bedroom, bedroom two and a bathroom. Outside there is secure underground parking space with gated access.

R VE O ’S 60

Barton Le Clay £310,000

Leighton Buzzard £99,995

Superbly located in the popular Norman Road, is this extended 2/3 bedroom home. This fantastic location is within walking distance to the local amenities. The accommodation includes an entrance hall, kitchen/breakfast room, living/dining room, bathroom, two double bedrooms and an additional (study/dressing room or further bedroom) The plot extends to the front and rear with a private garden, single garage and parking.

This period building is conveniently located close to the ‘Market Square’ in Leighton Buzzard. There is a communal hall with a LIFT to the 1st floor and a communal garden and courtyard. The apartment we are selling has a private hall, light living/dining room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Very unusually it also has a large loft that is accessed from the 2nd floor. It is perfect as a craft or hobby room.

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Toddington £367,000

Luton OIEO £250,000

This home occupies a good sized plot with a lovely garden and off road parking to the front. The good sized accommodation features an entrance porch, lounge/ dining room, study/bedroom FOUR, large kitchen/breakfast room, three bedrooms and a shower room. Meadow Road has a mixture of house styles and is a sought after place to live, walking distance to the schools and village facilities.

This charming terraced home is located in the Farley Hill area with local amenities and easy access to both Luton Town Centre & Luton Mainline Railway Station. The properties accommodation includes an entrance hall, living room, dining room and fitted kitchen. On the first floor are three bedrooms and the family bathroom. west facing private rear garden, gas central heating and double glazing.

LD SOSTC

Streatley £350,000

Toddington £375,000

This semi detached chalet bungalow has been beautifully refurbished and is immaculately presented throughout. There is new flooring throughout, new windows and doors, a refitted kitchen and luxury bathroom. The properties accommodation includes an entrance hall, spacious living room, kitchen/ dining room, bathroom, two ground floor bedrooms and a large first floor bedroom. There is a driveway to the front, set back garage and private rear garden.

This extended detached home offering no upper chain, a brand new boiler and well designed accommodation. There is an entrance hall, cloakroom, living room, dining room and conservatory. There is an extended kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom, ensuite shower, two further bedrooms and the bathroom. Attached to the side is the garage, driveway and the enclosed rear garden.

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C HA AP RA PE CT AL ER

SO ST LD C

Toddington £340,000

Houghton Regis £175,000

This lovely Victorian cottage is located in the sought after village of Toddington. The accommodation includes an entrance porch, 25ft open plan living/dining room, kitchen, utility and cloakroom. On the first floor are three bedrooms and a bathroom. Major benefits of this property are gas central heating, double glazing and an off road parking space. There is also a good size private rear garden.

Fantastic opportunity to acquire a two bedroom property for full renovation and potential to extend subject to planning. The property is in a good location for transport links and close to local schools. There is an entrance hall, living/dining room, kitchen and lean to. Two double bedrooms and a bathroom. Off road parking and a single detached garage and there is also private rear garden.

R PE UP IN O A N CH

LD SOSTC Toddington £275,000

Luton OIEO £170,000

Rhees Cottage built in 1609 has been refurbished and lovingly restored over the last few years. It is unique, detached and just a stones throw from the village green. The property boasts a separate dining room and living room both with exposed beams and fireplaces. Kitchen, rear lobby and bathroom. Upstairs are two double bedrooms both with fitted wardrobes. Cottage styled garden which is easily maintainable.

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Lidlington £215,000

Heath & Reach £440,000

This well presented home is located in the quaint village of Lidlington which benefits from a train station. Centre Parcs is approx. 3 miles away and M1 junction 13 is approximately 4 miles away. This well proportioned property has an entrance hall, kitchen, living/dining room, two double bedrooms and a bathroom. There is an enclosed rear garden and a GARAGE in the block behind.

Superbly located in a quiet cul de sac, is this extended 3/4 bedroom detached home. The accommodation includes an entrance hall, cloakroom, open plan living/dining room, refitted kitchen and bedroom four/study. On the first floor are three double bedrooms, a bathroom and shower room. The plot extends to the side and has a private rear garden, cabin and integral garage.

LD SOSTC

G IN N RTY UN PE ST RO P

Toddington £530,000

Dunstable £330,000

On the odd occasion, a property comes onto the market that is unique and just a bit special. This superb cottage enjoys a lovely location with a deep frontage, right next to the village Pond and backing onto miles of open countryside with lovely views.The condition throughout is superb with attention to detail and it is very well presented. You really do need to step inside to appreciate the size and space on offer.

Situated in the ever popular Luton & Dunstable borders is this lovely extended family home. There is a porch and hall, a living room, the kitchen is open plan to the family room. Additionally there is a shower room, utility room and a partly converted garage, the new owner could easily change it back into a full size garage if preferred. Upstairs are three good sized bedrooms and a family bathroom.

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