September 2019
Property News Plan ahead
for some winter sun PAGE 12
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Social media – Keeping children safe
Create the perfect home office
PAGE 4
PAGE 6
Light up your home with these top picks
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Editor’s Letter Welcome to the September issue!
Decorating your home on a budget
If you’re like us, you may be wondering just where the summer has gone! The kids are back at school, the nights are already drawing in, and we’re already well on our way towards the backend of 2019. But fear not! There’s plenty inside this issue to help take your mind off the pending arrival of autumn; from decorating your home on a budget (so you can save those pennies for, dare we say, Christmas), to creating the perfect home office, and top tips on keeping the kids safe on social media. Inside we also give inspiration on lighting up your home – whether it be with quirky lampshades or practical lights. But if you’re not quite ready to resign yourself to the fact that summer is all but a distant memory, then grab yourself a last-minute getaway! We give a run-down of the best places to visit. As ever, we hope you enjoy reading and we look forward to sharing more articles with you next time. Linda McKeown Editor
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Freecycle sites If you really feel that upcycling is not for you, but want to keep your budget to a minimum, scour online sites which offer a range of items, such as storage, tables and chairs, for free! Sites such as www.freecycle.org/browse/UK are great and work on the premise that having taken advantage of your freebie, that you do the same for something that you no longer require. Membership is free, and everything posted must be free, legal and appropriate for all ages. The Freecycle Network® is made up of 5,000+ groups with over 9 million members across the globe. It’s a nonprofit movement of people who give – and get – items for free in their own towns, which helps keep good stuff out of landfills. And if you do have a creative streak, freecycle sites are ideal if you’re on the hunt for something to transform and give a new lease of life to!
Upcycle If you’re on a budget or just can’t quite get rid of furniture, simply because you want to create a new look – upcycling could be the answer. You can find so much inspiration on the likes of Pinterest, which show how easy it can be to change a tired and dated piece of furniture into something new. For example, sanding down a pine chest of drawers and then painting it to your new colour scheme is relatively easy and cheap to do. Add some new handles, and they will be transformed. There is so much information out there on the internet to guide you through, step by step. So, get searching and release your creativity!
Freecycle sites are ideal if you’re on the hunt for something to transform and give a new lease of life to
Do it yourself Commonly known as DIY! If you want to help keep costs down further and you’re handy with a hammer, then carrying out home improvements yourself could be the answer.
Charity shop Second hand doesn’t have to mean settling for second best. Sometimes the best finds can be discovered in a charity shop! Hunt out where to find charity shops in your area that have household items on offer, such as British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research. Not only could you find the perfect item for your home, you’ll be supporting a great cause along the way!
Remember though: always consult the professionals when it comes to knocking down walls, installing plumbing or new electrics. Statistics compiled by NHS Digital show that during 12 months from March 2017, 4,831 admissions to NHS hospitals in England were made as a result of injuries from drills and other power tools, while from the same period, 6,489 admissions were made from falls from a ladder!
Auctions Always consult the professionals when it comes to knocking down walls, installing plumbing or new electrics
Online auctions, like eBay, have become increasingly popular for grabbing a bargain. Search for items available in your area to avoid large postage charges for heavier items. Alternatively, why not attend a locally held auction to help give you inspiration? Be aware of any commission that you may need to pay to the auction house on any winning bids. Some great bargains are to be had if you’re willing to look and wait for the right pieces to come along – and at the right price!
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With growing numbers of people regularly working from home, it’s important to get the environment just right for doing so
Choose the right space With 40% of Brits now working from home each week, it’s clear to see why: with the benefits from doing so ranging from saving money on the commute, to being in for deliveries and the school run.
perfect environment so that your productivity isn’t impacted. An uncomfortable and incorrectly positioned chair can lead to repeated shuffling to get comfortable, leading to distraction and a lack of desire to lock yourself away in your office and get the job done!
But what should you consider when converting a room into a home office? Choosing the right space is the first important decision to make. It’s not just about fitting into any space; you will, after all be spending most of your working day in there!
The same ethos applies to your desk. Work out how much space you need. Is it just a laptop you need the space for, or will you be using it to organise paperwork? Whatever your needs, ensure you have a desk that is up for the job.
If you’re able, choose a room that has some natural light coming in and that will be big enough to accommodate a desk, chair and storage – depending on your needs, of course.
Kit it out
Create the perfect environment As you will be spending a good deal of time working in your chosen room, it’s vital that you create the
OK, so you know what you need: now time to kit out your office. With the boom of internet shopping, you no longer need to rely on a trip to Ikea to get the office furniture you need. It’s always a good starting point but why not try the likes of www.wayfair.co.uk, www.officefurnitureonline.co.uk or www.ryman.co.uk to name but a few.
Again, work out what you need before you buy so you don’t end up buying more than needed (or you can actually fit in the room!).
Get connected If your broadband speed isn’t up to scratch it can be frustrating. Employers are likely to call you back into the office if your speed can’t handle the work you need to do. Alternatively, if you use Skype for business, a poor broadband speed could seriously hinder any meetings you have planned, with your call falling out and poor quality pictures for meetings. Slow broadband speed is a big turn off. Luckily rural countryside areas are finally catching up with inner-city speeds. Comparison websites such as Uswitch and Compare the Market will show you the best deals and estimated speeds in your area in minutes.
40% of Brits now work from home each week with the benefits from doing so ranging from saving money on the commute, to being in for deliveries and the school run”
It’s vital that you create the perfect environment so that your productivity isn’t impacted
Not only do you need a fast broadband speed, but you also want one that is consistently good from morning to evening.
Storage delights Keep it tidy and keep it simple! There are plenty of storage solutions out there for your home office space. And if floor space is limited, utilise wall space instead with bookcases or wall storage.
Our
top picks! Rutland Wooden Large Wall Mounted Shelving Unit In White Ideal for any home office – and available in oak too. £69.95 // www.furnitureinfashion.net Arran Fabric Swivel Chair - Grey A modern take on the classic tub chair combining both style and versatility £133.20 // www.officefurnitureonline.co.uk Corona Grey 5 Tier Narrow Shelving Unit Offering a combination of quality and style for your home office. Approx. Dimensions Barker Desk (mm) H 1670 W 470 A quirky desk D 350 with inbuilt £119.99 // storage cubes! www.ryman.co.uk £166.99 // www.wayfair. 5 co.uk
Keep your kids
Our children are growing up with technology as the norm and not just a treat, but how can you keep them safe online? 6
online
With Smartphones being as powerful as some laptops, everything you can do on a tablet is now accessible on a smartphone
If your child has a smartphone, set up parental controls so they cannot order any apps you don’t want them to have
In this technological age, where kids are surrounded by tablets, smartphones and YouTube, it is hard to know what is safe and what isn’t for your children. Most children already have a favourite YouTuber, play Fortnite or ROBLOX online with their friends and can surf through the web faster than most of their parents.
Smartphones
Here are some top tips for staying savvy and keeping your kids’ safe online.
If your child has a smartphone, set up parental controls so they cannot order any apps you don’t want them to have, and to stop them accidentally ordering from any in-game pop-ups.
Social media and YouTube
Social media is full of scare stories such as MOMO, (which turned out to be an elaborate hoax) which spread like wildfire through school playgrounds. This doesn’t make it any less scary for your children as their wild imaginations push things to the limit. The problem with social media is that fake news stories, like MOMO, get shared and go viral. Even if your child isn’t on social media, they will then find out about something viral through YouTubers and YouTube. There is a YouTube kids app with parental controls which can help limit what your child is watching. However, if you let your child watch YouTube, you can turn off the search settings, so they only watch videos pre-approved by you. Alternatively, remove YouTube altogether and set up a child’s profile for Netflix.
Computer consoles
With the release of Fortnite, the gaming world changed overnight. Suddenly, regardless of what console your child has, they can play online against their friends and strangers in a huge openworld environment. This brings up its own problems; strangers talking to your kids during the game, excessive time spent playing games etc. However, with Nintendo Switch’s capability to set parental controls and the ability to set play time limits, this is no longer a problem. Both the Xbox One and PS4 also have child safety settings. These range from content settings for YouTube and other apps, to a password to power-up the console. The beauty of this is that your child can’t get up in the middle of the night and turn on their console without a password.
The age you give your child a smartphone is up to you as the parent. Some parents give them out at an early age because their child gets the bus to school, others because they’re tired of getting theirs taken off them every evening! With Smartphones being as powerful as some laptops, everything you can do on a tablet is now accessible on a smartphone.
With technology constantly changing, it is time to accept that not giving your children technology could hold them back in their school, and later in their careers. However, as with everything, there are some simple fixes to help keep your child safe while online.
Strangers online
As children, and long before technology, we were warned about the dangers of talking to strangers when we were out playing. The same applies to your children online now. As parents it’s good to talk to your child at an early age about what to do if a stranger tries to talk to them online. You want your child to have the confidence to come to you if someone does try talking to them: • Tell your child not to respond: If your child responds to the stranger then that person has the chance to manipulate or talk to your child and convince them not to tell you about them. • Explain that they haven’t done anything wrong: If your child is worried about getting disciplined, they are more likely NOT to tell you if a stranger does try to talk to them; so, make sure they know that you won’t be angry. • Try to get a username: If your child understands the reasons for your concern, they may be able to get the username of the stranger. Using this username, you can then report the stranger to authorities. • Remove the specific game or app: Unfortunately, some games and apps are more accessible for people trying to contact your child. Simply remove these games and apps from your child’s console, tablet or smartphone. And tell your child the truth: don’t make up a story that the app or game no longer works as this will more than likely make them want to play it without your knowledge.
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KEEPING AN EYE ON YO U R C H I L D ’ S EYESIGHT
In the modern age of technology, caring for your child’s eyesight has never been so pertinent With kids and teens age 8 to 18 spending an average of more than seven hours a day looking at screens, it’s recommended that parents should limit screen time for kids to a maximum of just two hours per day. For younger children, age 3 and 4, the World Health Organization says that this should fall to just one hour a day. In fact, a 2010 study by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 8 to 18-year-old children devote an average of 7 hours and 38 minutes to entertainment media – every day. That equates to more than 53 hours per week! With children constantly growing, their eyes are prone to long-term damage, which is why it’s key that their eyesight is taken care of from an early age.
School time
Children can have an eyesight test at any age. However, most will have their eyes examined when they first start school. The great thing is, that they don’t need to be able to read. There are many ways in which your child’s eyes can be tested when they can’t yet read or understand letters of the alphabet – mainly by using images. If your child's vision is not checked at school, simply take them to your local opticians for an eye examination – it’s free!
Screen time
A potentially harmful light source for children is BlueViolet light, which comes from a plethora of sources such as sunlight, fluorescent and LED lights and screens, flat screen TVS, computers and smartphones. And just why isn’t it good for our eyes? Quite simply, our eyes are not equipped to filter out this light – and a child’s eyes are even more vulnerable. Too much screen time can result in eyestrain – symptoms can include burning, itchy, or tired eyes, headaches, fatigue and blurred vision.
Children may not always realise they have a problem with their vision, so it’s important that they have regular checks
Spotting a problem
Children may not always realise they have a problem with their vision, so it’s important that they have regular checks so that any potential issues can be flagged up and treated accordingly. Signs to look out for include: • eyes not pointing in the same direction • complaining of headaches or eye strain • problems reading i.e. holding books close to their face to read • problems with hand-eye co-ordination • being unusually clumsy • regularly rubbing their eyes • sitting too close to the TV If you have any concerns about your child's vision, visit your GP or go to an optician.
Did you know? Free NHS sight tests are available for children under 16 and for young people under 19 in full-time education. Just pop to your local optician’s to make an appointment.
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This recipe, and more, can be found at www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/layered-aubergine-lentil-bake
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Light up
YOUR HOME Whether you’re after a modern, cosy or quirky feel to a room, choosing the right light source is vital for achieving the desired look you want
Monkey Table Lamp This quirky table lamp base features a monkey holding a light bulb. Ideal for adding a retro style to any room in your home. £57.99 www.wayfair.co.uk
Pluto Floor Lamp The Pluto floor lamp by Swoon has a minimalistic yet mesmerising design that brings a hint of geometric charm to your room. £129 www.very.co.uk
Lucide Oris 4 Light Bar Ceiling Pendant We think that this hanging light would be ideal for any dining room. Robust and sturdy, it’s also adjustable in height, so you can choose at what height it hangs below the ceiling. £205.99 www.lighting-direct.co.uk
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Next Isla Ombre Easy Fit Pendant 100% glass, this smoke-plated crackle-effect pendant is ideal for those wanting to make a quick replacement of an existing pendant light. £25 www.next.co.uk
Chicago Floor Lamp Bring vintage Hollywood to your home with this studio set inspired floor lamp. The diffuser reflects the light back into the shade, creating a warm, illuminating effect. Perfect!
Mini Gaston in Brass Meet the pint-sized version of Loaf’s everpopular Gaston lamp. With a vintage brass finish and pewter details, we think this ‘mini’ light might be one of our favourites!
£199 www.made.com
£75 https://loaf.com
Mirrored Glass Pentagon Ceiling Light Made from mirrored glass, light shines through the distressed accents in the glass to create a warm, glowing effect when switched on, while it appears as a multi-faceted mirror when switched off. £195 www.johnlewis.com
Elements Harley Ochre Table Lamp This Elements table lamp is presented with a stylish tripod base and completed with an Ochre interlocking shade design – perfect for adding a focal point to any room. £32 www.dunelm.com
Antique Silver Palm Leaf Table Lamp Simply stunning! Made from iron with an antiqued silver leaf finish, this fabulous Palm Leaf Table Lamp is very on trend and casts amazing shadows when lit! £195 www.oliveandsage.co.uk
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Catch some sun
this winter! With the summer holidays already a distant memory, it’s time to get excited about some winter sun. We look at the best places to go
Fly a little further to get the sunshine you crave in the winter months, and you won’t be disappointed. There are some great destinations to pick from – whether you are looking for a classic beach-style holiday or something a bit more luxurious; there is something to suit all budgets.
The Canary Islands The number one winter sun destination! This group of seven islands has something for everyone, and with temperatures around 20c throughout the winter months and a flight time of under five hours, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular. The most well-known islands are Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife. If you want a large resort with masses to keep the family busy, then look no further than Playa del Ingles in Gran Canaria. It is a resort which has something for everyone, whether you are looking for lavish meals out, family fun at a theme park, buggy racing on the dunes, a day at the beach or dolphin and whale spotting on the sea, plus much more. The beach stretches for miles and there is a wide range of accommodation on offer from simple self-catering apartments through to an allinclusive 5* boutique hotel. Try the Papas Arrugadas, the local dish of wrinkly salted potatoes with Mojo sauce.
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Check before you travel Some of our suggested destinations are further afield than you may usually travel during the summer holidays. Always check if a VISA is required. You can check on the gov.uk website for all travel requirements for certain countries. It will also include up-to-date information regarding weather warnings and extra travel advice.
Madeira
Mexico
Florida
Madeira is an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean to the southwest of Portugal. 400 miles north of the Canary Islands, this stunning island is where the Portuguese global football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was born.
A longer flight than the Canary Islands or Madeira, but well worth it. At around 12 hours flight time, Mexico is a great choice for couples and families with older children. It is well known and loved for its hospitable people, love of spicy foods and its cultural history.
No winter sunshine holiday list would be complete without the US state of Florida. Famous for its amusement parks including the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, the state of Florida is one of the most visited holiday destinations in the world! With so much to see and do, you will need longer than a week here. The Walt Disney World Resort alone has four theme parks, two water parks, four golf courses and thirty-six hotels to choose from!
The capital, Funchal, is located on the south coast of the island and is a haven for culture seekers. With an average high temperature of 21c in December, this beautiful island is a great place to soak up some sunshine and culture over the winter. Madeira is a mountainous island with stunning flora and fauna with high volcanic peaks, making it perfect for hiking and walking. On the northern slopes of Madeira Island, the valleys contain native forests which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fancy something relaxing after exploring? Why not sunbathe on one of the stunning beaches and take in the culture and local food in the evening. Explore the North of the island with its natural parks, waterfalls and wild horses.
Whether you are looking to go on an adventure in the southern jungles or want to explore the snow-capped volcanoes in its northern deserts, Mexico won’t leave you disappointed. With its long coastline and crystalclear sea, take some time out soaking up the rays on one of Mexico’s many beaches. Explore some of its history and culture with a visit to Chichen Itza, the famous Mayan site that is now one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The capital, Mexico City, is known for its ancient canals, art and culture as much as for the sumptuous smells and tastes of its street food. Avoid travelling in September as this is Mexico’s hurricane season.
Florida is also home to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center where the Apollo flights were launched. The Florida Reef is also the only living coral barrier reef in the United States and has a plethora of stunning marine life which you can visit at one of the National Parks. For sport, Florida offers a great chance to see one of the USA’s main sports firsthand: Florida has three NFL teams, two NBA teams and two MLB teams. Pre-book your tickets online to avoid queues during the busy season.
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Champions Preview League 2019/20
The usual heavyweights from across the continent such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus, Bayern Munich and PSG will hope to stop the resurgence of English teams this year
Can Europe’s heavyweight’s stop the dominance of English teams in the Champions League? Last season, English teams ruled with the first all-English final for over a decade ending with Liverpool winning their sixth Champions League title. Let's have a look at five clubs we believe could go the whole way this year:
Manchester City
Juventus
Quite possibly one of the greatest teams ever created, Pep Guardiola’s Citizens will hope to claim the elusive trophy they crave so much. The addition of Rodri from Atletico Madrid and an upgrade in full back in Cancelo could be the final pieces of the puzzle. A settled team full of world-class talent, with a substitutes bench that would make the first-eleven at most other clubs, will this be the year Guardiola gets his tactics right in Europe?
The Bianconeri haven't lifted the Champions League since the 1995/96 season, when a trio of Gianluca Vialli, Del Piero and Fabrizio Ravanelli shot them to glory. With Ronaldo defying his years and an influx of genuinely world-class players in Aaron Ramsey, Adrien Rabiot and Matthijs de Ligt arriving this summer, will Maurizio Sarri be able to rebuild his reputation after his troubled time at Stamford Bridge last season?
Paris Saint-Germain
Atletico Madrid
Atletico may have lost three of their most well-loved players in Griezmann, Rodri and Godin, however, they have spent the money wisely; securing the talent of Joao Felix, in attack, from Benfica for £113,000,000 and Kieran Trippier, in defence, for £20,000,000 plus five other players who will join the likes of Saul, Morata, Diego Costa and last year's big signing, Thomas Lemar, in Madrid. With Barcelona and Real Madrid rebuilding their squads, this could be the year Diego Simeone's men take advantage in Europe and at home.
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Borussia Dortmund
Dortmund may have only won the Champions League once in their history, however, last year they were only two points from winning the Bundesliga and have spent more wisely over the summer than their biggest rivals, Bayern Munich. Snapping up two of the hottest players in Thorgan Hazard and Julian Brandt, securing the services of their old captain, Hummels, and keeping hold of Jadon Sancho, shows a manager with a plan. With perfectionist Lucien Favre at the helm, this could be the year they add a second Champions League title to their shelf.
After a quiet summer compared to their usual spending sprees, is PSG turning into a settled team? Arguably one of the most talented teams in Europe on paper, Thomas Tuchel has struggled to get the consistency required to turn PSG into genuine Champions League contenders. With Neymar angling for a move back to Spain, it falls on the young shoulders of Kylian Mbappe and the ageing Edinson Cavani to lead them to glory. Backed up by an old-school, no-nonsense, central midfielder in Ander Herrera, this could be their year
B e n e f i t s of using a letting agent to look after your rental property
If you have a buy-to-let property or are looking to invest in one, you will want a letting agent to do all the hard work for you when it comes to letting it! A buy-to-let property is a great way to invest your hard-earned money. Property investment has never been more popular and with a rise in people renting and the actual cost of renting going up, creating a property portfolio is a great stream of passive income. But, once you have exchanged and completed on the property and invested money and time in the standard of the accommodation, where and how do you find a suitable tenant who will look after your property?
A buy-to-let property is a great way to invest your hard-earned money
Looking after your property throughout a tenancy. Once a tenant is in the property, do you want them calling you for any maintenance issues? Throughout the tenancy, we can be the port-of-call for any maintenance problems that may arise and we will take care of property inspections and report back with our findings. We can also take care of the end-oftenancy inspection and report back the condition of the property. We will always make sure that you, as the landlord, and the tenant receives the highest possible service. There can be a murky area in private renting without a letting agent, however, if you use a reputable letting agent such as us, we aim to make the process clear and simple – creating a win-win for you and the tenant, just the way it should be! Owning a buy-to-let property and managing it yourself can be time-consuming, however with an established and trusted letting agent, like us, on your side we can do all the hard work (for a small fee) while you simply collect on your investment.
We will find you the right tenant for your property. Some tenants feel uneasy about renting with no estate agent involved: an estate agent gives the tenant that extra security they feel they need when renting a property, especially if they have a family and children in the property. A reliable and professional letting agent, like us, can take a lot of the hassle out of finding suitable tenants and marketing your property. We will offer you professional photos, marketing on property portals and a ready-made database of prospective tenants for your property. As an established letting agent, we will take care of everything for you from the EPC, through to viewings, gathering feedback and taking care of the referencing process. We will also make sure you are keeping within the law, especially after recent changes. Our lettings team will also ensure that the deposit is securely and legally kept in an official government-backed tenancy deposit scheme and that all the paperwork is safe and secure covering both you as the landlord and the tenant.
For more information about buying a rental property, through to managing it and everything in-between, please talk to one of our friendly team in the office today
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LD SO Frogs Castle, Old Basing £1,500,000 LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present this luxury country estate home to the market. This versatile equestrian family home, is tucked away on country lanes with its own private coded access leading to a ½ mile private drive way which takes you to the property. The drive way has ample parking for 15+ vehicles and horse boxes with the added benefit of 3 garages. To the rear of the property there is fully serviced stables and further sheds and out buildings. The paddocks (6+ Acres) and gardens are enclosed with fences and hedge rows. Inside this home you are really spoilt for choice with the amount of space. The country style kitchen is fully fitted with Range cooker, wine fridge and all other white goods included. The separate utility has a washing machine with separate dryer. Further to this on the ground floor you will find a Snug, Study, extravagantly large Lounge/Diner and Large conservatory. Upstairs there are four bedrooms with master to en-suite and a family bathroom.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Carbonel Close, Basingstoke
ÂŁ372,000
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this extended three bedroom link detached family home situated in a cul-de-sac. The ground floor offers an entrance hall, cloakroom, spacious lounge, leading through double doors into a separate dining room and a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room with door to the garden. Upstairs offers a modern shower room, three bedrooms with fitted wardrobes to the main bedroom. Outside to the front is ample driveway parking with an attached garage, and to the rear is a generous garden, with patio area, remainder laid to lawn with flower beds and mature shrubs, fully enclosed and with a private outlook. This is an ideal family house on the outskirts of the town centre, but with local amenities close by and good access to the leisure and shopping facilities provided at Festival Place and good commuter links with the M3, A339 & A33 and the mainline train station at Basingstoke, London Waterloo approx. 45 mins. Call now for your viewing appointment.
Fraser Close, Old Basing
375,000
LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to offer this rarely available three bedroom, semi detached bungalow situated in a cul de sac location in the sought after village of Old Basing. The property offers spacious accommodation throughout with entrance hall leading, rear aspect lounge with doors out to the very generous rear garden, kitchen/diner with door to the side, three good size bedrooms, one with built in wardrobes and a family bathroom. The property also benefits from a set back large, detached brick garage with window and side door, gravel driveway parking, enclosed front garden with lawn and mature shrubs and panel fencing. The sunny rear garden includes a expansive patio area for entertaining, with the remainder laid to lawn and enclosed by panel fencing. Sitting on a substantial plot, there could be the opportunity to extend, subject to usual planning regulations, and make further improvement to make this an exciting family home.
loddonproperties.com
Hereford Road, Winklebury ÂŁ250,000
LODDON PROPERTIES offer to the market this immaculately presented, spacious, three bedroom family home situated to the West of the town centre in Winklebury. The property comprises an entrance lobby and hallway with cloakroom and storage/utility room with plumbing for washing machine. A generous, well fitted kitchen/breakfast room with plenty of units and work surfaces, window and door to the rear garden. The 22ft lounge/dining room is dual aspect with a door into the rear garden. Upstairs are three double bedrooms and a large modern shower room with separate curved corner shower cubicle, a vanity wash hand basin unit and built in w.c. Outside to the front is a path leading to the front door with a shingled area and a few shrubs. To the rear is a very sunny, fully brick paved, low maintenance garden which has been beautifully looked after, giving two levels with flower beds set into the brick retaining walls and mature flowering shrubs, plants and hedging and a rear access gate entrance.
Puttenham Road, Chineham
SO ST LD C
ÂŁ470,000
First class 4 bedroom home, in the sought after area of Chineham. To the front you will find a large block paved driveway with parking for several cars, leading to a garage. The rear garden, designed by a Chelsea Flower Show award winner, is perfect for alfresco dining with its large patio area and beautiful landscaped lawn, surrounded by mature shrubs and borders. This perfectly presented family home, originally had four bedrooms, currently one of the bedrooms has been converted to serve as a dressing room to the master bedroom, however, can very easily be reconfigured back to a fourth bedroom. Hallway, cloakroom, dual aspect living room, leading to a separate dining area with French doors to conservatory. Modern kitchen, with a range of modern units and appliances, including two integrated fridge freezers, inset Neff induction hob with stainless steel extractor above, integrated separate oven and grill and stainless steel sink. There is a separate utility/boot room, with integrated washing machine and dishwasher and access to garage and garden. Upstairs comprises, Master bedroom with en suite, wet room with underfloor heating, dressing room/bedroom 4/nursery/study, two further double bedrooms and a modern fitted family bathroom.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Richards Field, Chineham
ÂŁ359,995
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to market this stunning four bedroom family home, situated in the sought after location of Chineham. This beautifully presented home offers a dining hall with a door leading through to a modern fitted kitchen, a cloakroom and a generous dual aspect living room. To the rear of the property are enclosed, low maintenance gardens and driveway/carport parking for two cars and additional garage with electric roller door. The upstairs offers a refitted bathroom, four bedrooms, offering a dual aspect master bedroom with en-suite with one currently being used as a walk in wardrobe but is a versatile room as it could be used as a study/hobbies room. Chineham is a highly sought after area, with good schools, local amenities, doctors, dentist and Chineham Shopping Centre.
Warbleton Road, Chineham ÂŁ525,000
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to bring to the market, this 4 bedroom detached family home, located in an extremely desirable road. This home benefits from entrance hall, cloakroom, a large living room through to a separate dining room with patio doors out to the garden. A generous, modern kitchen/family room with built in oven, hob and extractor, again with patios doors to the rear garden. Additionally, an adjoining utility room with access to the garage and rear garden. Upstairs is a large master bedroom with fitted wardrobes and en suite with walk in shower. Three further bedrooms and family bathroom. Outside to the front there is a double garage, with block paved driveway parking for several vehicles, two areas of lawn with mature shrubs and tree and flower beds. To the rear is a well manicured garden with paved patio area and semi circle path around a lawn area with further flower beds and mature shrubs.
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Westray, Basingstoke £279,950
LODDON PROPERTIES offer this 3 bedroom end terrace, family home, within walking distance of the town centre and railway station. Accommodation comprises entrance hall, cloakroom, family/dining room, smart, modern kitchen with built in oven and hob and door to rear garden, good size living room with French doors to the rear garden. Upstairs are 3 double bedrooms and modern family bathroom. Outside there is a private, enclosed, low maintenance rear garden with patio area, lawn and rear gate access. The location benefits from good transport links and easy access to the M3/M4 motorways. Please call for your viewing appointment.
Wickham Way, Sherfield Park
£300,000
LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to bring to the market this immaculately presented two bedroom mid terrace house in an enviable position, within the Sherfield Park development. The property offers a good sized bright living room, modern kitchen/diner with access to the rear garden, downstairs cloakroom, two double bedrooms both with fitted wardrobes, one with an en-suite shower room and a family bathroom with contemporary ‘P’ shaped bath. Outside there is a fully enclosed, landscaped and low maintenance, sunny rear garden. With attractive paving and shingle areas, panel and trellis fencing and an access door to the rear of the garage. The garage also incorporates a fitted utility area and is the only FREEHOLD garage in the road. This contemporary home is close to lovely countryside walks. Local amenities close by, at Chineham shopping centre, doctors and good schools.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Compton Way, Sherfield Park £74,000 Shared Ownership
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to the market this delightful one double bedroom ground floor maisonette. Set back from the road the property benefits from a quiet non overlooked location within walking distance of local amenities. Easy access to the Chineham Shopping Centre, A33 and motorway junction. With it’s own PRIVATE ENTRANCE the property comprises of one good sized bedroom and a built in wardrobe. The property benefits from a fully FITTED KITCHEN, lounge/diner leading out to the COMMUNAL GARDEN. Modern bathroom suite with SHOWER over bath. Gas central heating and double glazing throughout. One ALLOCATED PARKING space and ample visitors parking available.
LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to offer a 40% SHARED OWNERSHIP modern, ground floor, one bedroom apartment, situated in the award winning, sought after Sherfield Park development. This property boasts a spacious entrance hall, dual aspect gorgeous open plan living area comprising living/dining room and a modern fitted kitchen with built in oven and hob, double bedroom and modern bathroom. The property also benefits from one allocated parking space. Any interested parties should register with Help to Buy South and have a local connection to the Borough of Basingstoke and Deane.
SO ST LD C
Cibbons Road, Basingstoke £169,500
Pecche Place, Chineham. £279,995
Sorrells Close, Chineham £374,950
LODDON PROPERTIES offer this two bedroom semi detached house with No Onward Chain. The property features entrance hall with cloakroom, good size lounge with doors opening to the garden, fitted kitchen/dining room. Upstairs are two double bedrooms and family bathroom, with the master benefiting from built in wardrobes and an en suite shower room. Outside there is driveway parking and a fully enclosed rear garden, mainly laid to lawn with a patio area. Local amenities include Chineham Shopping Centre, doctors, dentisit, public house & primary/ junior schools. Commuters are well served by the A33 to the M4 and Reading and Basingstoke town centre is along the A33/A339 with Festival Place and mainline train station (fast trains to London Waterloo 45 mins approx) and the M3.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to bring to the market this two bedroom cluster house that comes with allocated parking. In need of modernisation and situated in the popular Chineham area that is perfect for first time buyers and buy to let investment landlords. Downstairs you will find an entrance hall with cloakroom off, living/dining room and fitted kitchen. Upstairs has two bedrooms with the master having built in wardrobes and a family bathroom. Outside there is an enclosed garden with a storage shed. Other benefits include gas central heating and double glazing.
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The Dell, Kingsclere ÂŁ3,500 pcm Nestled between Newbury and Basingstoke in the historic village of Kingsclere, this prime contemporary home is designed with complete privacy and lifestyle in mind. Perfectly positioned to take advantage of the splendid views of both the garden and surrounding countryside. Offering quick and easy access to main roads, this well appointed home with unique features has it all. Spacious and well designed for the extended family seeking ample entertainment space both indoor and outdoors, luxurious accommodation and space to work from home or indulge hobbies. The property is approached through wooden gates to a driveway leading up to the house, offering ample parking and access to the double garage. The house offers great flexible accommodation with spacious open plan living. Downstairs, a grand entrance hall leads you to a large dual aspect drawing room with doors out to a patio. A farmhouse sized kitchen with Aga, leading to the patio and on to the private garden stocked with mature trees, shrubs and flowers. A separate dining room, leading into a garden room overlooking the beautiful grounds, a TV/family room, guest bedroom with Jack and Jill en suite, as well as a study, utility and cloakroom. Upstairs are a further 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 with en suite with the master suite also having a separate dressing room.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Binfields Close, Chineham ÂŁ725pcm
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to the market this freshly decorated 1 double bedroom maisonette situated in desirable Chineham area, within walking distance of the CHINEHAM BUSINESS PARK and a local shopping centre. The property also benefits from a nearby bus route, easy access to the A33 & motorways. A superb location for local amenities and transport links. This property comes unfurnished but with white goods included in the let, has a new carpets and flooring throughout.
Churchill Place, Basingstoke ÂŁ1,000pcm
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this one bedroom, fully furnished apartment to the rental market. The apartment is one of the larger one bedroom plots at Churchill Place, comprising of a large open plan lounge, diner and kitchen with integrated appliances. A spacious double bedroom with built in wardrobe and bathroom with shower. Perfectly located in the centre of Basingstoke, the property provides excellent commuter links both by road and rail. Available now so call our team to arrange a viewing 7 days a week and evening appointments available.
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Meet Our Team Dawn Company Owner Dawn founded Loddon Properties and her primary focus is always on the customer, ensuring they receive the optimum care from her and her multi-lingual team. Dawn’s drive and commitment is responsible for developing Loddon Properties into the number one ranked independent estate agency in the area. Outside of work, Dawn is the chairman of the Wellington Boot Club, enjoys cultural travel and has a thing for shoes. She also enjoys good food, her family and her wonderful dog Rolo.
Lyle Lettings Director Lyle is Director of Lettings. Utilising his BA hons in Business Studies, he has expanded the lettings portfolio tremendously, so that Loddon is now the leading lettings agency in the area. He is highly adept at maximising rental income for landlords, works with property investors on acquisitions and is a highly-respected advisor on rental information and property investment. Lyle is now getting used to sleeping a lot less than he used to, as he has recently become a proud father.
Pedro Office Manager Pedro is our Office Manager and has over 20 years of sales experience in both Banking and Estate Agency. He understands that the buying and selling of a home is one of the biggest decisions in a customer’s life and guides them through this smoothly. His calm manner and vast experience have a soothing effect on the sometimes turbulent world we work in. Outside of work, Pedro is a keen cook, recreating many dishes from his Southern European homeland.
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Carla Director of Property Management Carla, our Director of Property Management, is a perfectionist and will always strive to deliver the highest level of professional customer service, for both our landlords and tenants. Having worked within customer services for over 20 years and a further 5 years specifically in Property Management, she enjoys working closely with landlords and tenants and as Lettings team leader, thrives in making sure a high level of customer service is delivered, by working hard and being efficient even in difficult situations. As well as her family and dogs, Carla’s main passion is ballroom dancing, though she has yet to receive the call to go on Strictly!
Neil Property Management Manager As Property Maintenance Manager, with 8 years of experience from all aspects of the Lettings industry Neil brings his vast skills to Loddon, ensuring a smooth transition for both Landlords and Tenants through from inception to finalisation. Neil thrives on providing an excellent, personal service and his attention to detail, with both landlords and tenants alike. Ensuring that, should there be any problems during the tenancy, that they are dealt with in an efficient and timely manner. Neil boasts that working at Loddon is a very enjoyable part of his life. He feels it is not just the work, but the people he works with that make his working day so much fun. In his free time, of which there’s not much, Neil likes to run, hike and wherever possible sunbathe!
Julie Inventories and Inspection Manager Julie has been in the Property Industry since 1997 having started in New Home Sales and progressed to Lettings in 2008 whereby she became an Inventory Consultant/ Property Inspector. Julie’s happy-go-lucky, helpful, positive personality, coupled with her professionalism, allows her to get along with both Landlords and tenants from all walks of life. This comes in useful when she helps deal with any queries resulting from the property inspections, should they arise. Julie’s Role at Loddon is to make and provide Inventories, carry out tenant check-ins & check-outs, along with regular property inspections. She works closely with Carla and Neil and the rest of their teams to ensure the seamless running of the Property Management side of the Company. Julie’s passion for her dogs and love for life uses up most of her spare time!
Marion Head of Sales Progression Marion has been in Estate Agency for over 20 years and during that time has gone from secretary to office manager. With her excellent secretarial and organised administration background, Marion is now Head of our Sales Progression department. She puts her skills to good use. Pulling out all of the stops, making sure all parties are kept updated, ensuring that your journey from sale to completion is as straight forward as possible and most importantly, making sure your moving process is a happy and positive one. Marion is always busy but spends her free time with her family and their animals and taking well-earned holidays in sunnier and hotter climates.
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Dont just take our word for it ..... We had seen a lot of property “for sale” and the “sold” signs around Chineham, so naturally decided to look at Loddon when we were looking at selling. The way that Loddon marketed our property; all the photos were really good, they looked good on site and professional. If we were ever to sell our house again, we would use Loddon.
Lorraine Allcock / Seller
Loddon Properties are a friendly family organisation and we quite enjoyed their company and their approach to the whole thing. They have a great team of people and we felt many of the individuals in there, right from Lyle and Dawn, through to the sales team including Pedro and the lettings team with Carla, everybody seemed to be able to answer questions I have.
Annie Elvin / Seller
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Loddon are really approachable and, if there’s any problem with property, they come to the landlord first to see how you want to progress with it. Unlike a lot of other estate agents, they don’t get work done without you qualifying what you want to be done.
Paul Kennett / Landlord
Excellent service and communication from start to finish I can summarise my buying and selling with Loddon Properties as excellent- from start to finish.
Mr David and Mrs Sylvia Atkinson / Sellers
Loddon have got their finger on the pulse. Understand the market and have been very good at advising me at every level of the transactions.
Mr Herbert Goodenough / Landlord
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