THE LOCAL

PROPERTY PAPER

FROM

whathouse.com

Take the plunge Gorgeous pool properties, P26

EDITIO

N JU

LY 24 2015

Specification includes: A range of contemporary and traditional kitchens Stoves Richmond 900EI Stainless Steel Range Cooker* Stainless Steel Cooker Hood Integrated Neff appliances Integrated Prima wine cooler Utility rooms (not applicable to plot 3) come with either a washer/dryer

or washing machine and tumble dryer Bathroom and En-Suites have contemporary bathrooms with Ideal

Standard Sanitaryware and are fully tiled with Porcelanosa tiles

Floors are finished with Porcelanosa floor tiles to Kitchen, Utility, Bathroom, En-suite, Cloakrooms and Carpets to all other areas*

Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished door handles Built in wardrobes to most bedrooms – please refer to sales layouts –

with oak panelled doors and pewter finished door handles Air Source Heating, offering reduced running costs, with under floor heating

to all ground floor areas and radiators to upper floor rooms with 5 year service and warranty package.

Eight unique Grade II listed 2, 3 and 4 bedroom barns converted to a high specification, retaining many original features.All properties have private gardens with plots 1, 2 and 8 having the added benefit of a paddock.‘The Barns’ Merton Grange is situated in an idyllic rural location on the edge of Gamlingay in South Cambridgeshire. The approach is via a private drive with far reaching views either side across fields.

Tel : 01923 251799Email: sales@leavalleyhomes.co.uk

www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk

*Where possible we will be able to offer buyers variations and choices on the internal finishes, although the availability of this will depend upon the stage of construction that each property has reached when a reservation is made. For full specification details please see the brochure.

ShowhomEopEn

wEEkEndS onlyfrom

march 7th-29th between

11am-3pm

prices from £610,000

Close to the borders

with Hertfordshire and

Cambridgeshire, the

Uttlesford district is often

a high-flyer in national

surveys (such as those

of the Sunday Times

and Halifax) for overall

quality of life, thanks to its great amenities,

high levels of wellbeing, education and

employment among its residents and

pleasant physical environment.

Takeley is one of the most popular villages

in this sought-after area, recorded in

Norman times and still boasting a 12th-

century parish church.

Home to a handful of shops and the

essential village pub, Takeley is just 10

minutes’ drive to the larger village of

Great Dunmow, 15 minutes from Bishop’s

Stortford, 20 minutes from Braintree

and half-an-hour from Chelmsford. These

straightforward journeys bring a host of

shops and services within easy reach, along

with numerous sports clubs, gyms and other

leisure facilities.

The village is also only a few minutes from

Stansted Airport, a major local employer

and useful transport hub, not just for flights

but for rail and bus links to London, East

Anglia and beyond. Thankfully, the A120

linking Braintree and Bishop’s Stortford via

the airport bypasses the village, limiting the

amount of through-traffic that blights the

main street through it.

It’s the ideal place to make a home for

all sorts of house-hunters, from young

professionals to families and downsizers.

The often-overhyped idea of the “best of

both worlds” really does apply here, as the

impressive array of new homes being built

in the village are close to comprehensive

public and private transport links and the

surrounding countryside is perfect for

escaping the daily grind and giving children

a great place to grow up.

For example, the town’s football team,

believed to be more than 100 years old, has

youth and women’s squads in addition to

its first team and just outside the village,

the National Trust-managed Hatfield Forest

National Nature Reserve is home to 3,500

wildlife species and is perfect for a stroll

with the family.

AREA FOCUS WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 21

Taylor Wimpey – Trinity Square (from £275,000)

Comprising just ten homes in all, with two-, three- and four-

bedroom options, this small development is on the western

edge of the village, in a cul de sac a short walk from the

parish church. Help to Buy and other assistance schemes are

available.

Michael O’Leary, regional sales and marketing director

for Taylor Wimpey, says: “We have already received a

huge amount of interest in these properties, and due to

the exclusivity of the development I’d urge anyone who is

interested to get in touch without delay.”

Find out more at www.taylorwimpey.co.uk;

01371 878322 (Intercounty Estate Agents)

CALA Homes – Foxwood (from £340,000)

Just to the east of Takeley, in Little Canfield, former

WhatHouse? Housebuilder of the Year CALA Homes will be

launching this development of 12 homes, a mix of three-

bedroom semis and four-bedroom detached houses.

Chris Roads, sales and marketing director for CALA

Homes North Home Counties, says: “Families looking for

luxury, contemporary living, downsizers who want low

maintenance homes, or city professionals looking for a more

rural location but with good connections into the capital will

be impressed with what we have on offer.”

Find out more at www.cala.co.uk

01707 861690

Bovis Homes – The Ashes (from £342,950)

From the housebuilder’s Portfolio range of house types

comes this selection of two- and three-storey properties,

built to an eco-friendly and energy-efficient level and to the

‘Lifetime Homes’ standards, meaning they can be adapted

over time to accommodate changing needs.

There’s a handful of two-bedroom bungalows – a rare find

on new build developments – and a variety of three-, four-

and five-bedroom houses, most of them detached, all set in

attractive street scenes. The sales office opens at the end of

July, with a show home to be launched in August.

Find out more at www.bovishomes.co.uk

01279 933844

WHATHOUSE? PICKS...

Quality streets

Managing director: Daniel HillEditorial director: Rupert BatesEditor: Keith Osborne ko@whathouse.comAssistant editor: Stephen Maunder sm@whathouse.comDesigner: Peter Rogers peter@39zero.co.ukContributors: Tilly Rubens, Fiona Brandhorst, Nick Parkhouse, Richenda OldhamSales director: Adrian Talbot at@globespanmedia.comHead of sales: Andy Lunn al@whathouse.comBusiness development manager: Steve Coyle sc@whathouse.comSales manager: Murad Paloda mp@whathouse.comProperty supplement published by: What House Digital Limited, 291-299 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JG; 020 7940 1070 info@globespanmedia.com www.whathouse.comPrinted by 39zero

© 2015 What House Digital LimitedCover picture: Dynes Cottage in Finchingfield, from Mullucks Wells, £1.55million 01371 872117

What House? @What_House

THE LOCAL

PROPERTY PAPER

FROM

whathouse.com

Take the plunge Gorgeous pool properties, P26

EDITIO

N JU

LY 24 2015

The village of Takeley is attracting more and more people to its quality of life and superb new homes choice

Holy Trinity Church, Takeley (courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Welcoming your home to ours !

HARTSWOOD AREA

£695,000Warley

DETACHED FAMILY HOME IN A SOUGHT AFTER AREAEntering through the enclosed porch you will find a spacious dining room with sliding doors providing access to a secluded patio area, along with a modern fitted kitchen. The upper ground floor offers a 22’ lounge with access to an elevated patio area, overlooking the beautiful rear garden. The middle floor offers two bedrooms and a modern family bathroom, whilst the top floor provides access to the fourth bedroom and master bedroom and en-suite shower room.

THE G

ALLERIE

S

Warley £395,000

GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT WITH ITS OWN COURTYARDKavanagh Court forms part of the award winning Galleries Development, itself set within stunning manicured gardens. This particular ground floor two bedroom apartment offers its own small courtyard area to the front and delightful views of the gardens to the rear. Internally is the perfect blend of old meets new, from its arched ceilings to its modern fully fitted kitchen. Viewing is strongly advised.

GUIDE PRICE £730,000 - £760,000

VIEWING ADVIS

ED

£695,000Kelvedon Hatch

AN ATTRACTIVE FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOME WITH A 100’ GARDENWe are delighted to offer this handsome architecturally designed 4 bedroom detached house which has been well maintained throughout and offers a delightful un-overlooked 90’ rear garden. The property is spacious & well planned with excellent potential for further extension into a large 33’ loft area, which is currently boarded (STPP). Close to open countryside & yet still within easy walking distance of local shops, schools & bus routes.

GRADE II

LISTED

Blackmore £1,300,000

OVERLOOKING THE VILLAGE GREEN IN THIS AWARD WINNING VILLAGEBeing offered for sale for the first time in 31 years is this 4 bedroom, grade II listed period property, believed to date back to between 1600-1650 and standing in just over 1/2 acre of part walled grounds. The property sits nicely in the middle of the plot, over 100’ back from the road. This is a fantastic opportunity to purchase what many consider to be one of the most attractive houses in Blackmore.

£659,995

Hutton

POPULAR CUL DE SAC BACKING ONTO THRIFTWOODIdeally suited for first time buyers and investors is this purpose built first floor studio apartment located on the popular Thriftwood development. The property offers entrance hall, modern kitchen, lounge/bedroom and bathroom. Externally is residents parking. The property is offered with no onward chain.

£125,000

STUDIO APARTM

ENT

Doddinghurst

AN EXTENDED AND IMMACULATE FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOUSEBenefitting from the widest frontage of this style of house & offering parking for 6 cars is this 4 bed detached house, which has been subject to much improvement and extension over the years and is immaculate throughout. Two en-suites, a sitting room with beautiful views of the garden from full height double-glazed windows, along with a hot tub room complete with 4-6 seater hot tub and shower.

Guide Price £550,000 - £600,000

4 DOUBLE

BEDS

Brentwood

AN ATTRACTIVE BUNGALOW WITH VIEWS OVER A WOODED AREANestled discreetly off the Ingrave Road and enjoying views over the woods of Shenfield Common, lays this detached three/four bedroom property, surrounded by mature and well-tended gardens. Available for the first time in many years, the property offers a distinct inviting feel and would make a fantastic home for its next purchasers.

£649,995Hutton

SEMI DETACHED BUNGALOW IN CUL DE SAC LOCATIONSituated in a quiet cul de sac is this lovely two bedroom semi-detached bungalow available with vacant possession. Surrounded by well maintained gardens the property boasts delightful views from the rear and offers a great degree of seclusion. Viewing is advised.

£375,000

HUTTON PO

ETS

MATURE GRO

UNDS

Doddinghurst

A TWO BEDROOM DETACHED BUNGALOW SITUATED IN A MATURE LEAFY LANESituated in a mature leafy wooded lane this detached bungalow stands in one and a half acres subject to land survey and with 105’ road frontage. The property has had plans passed to extend the bungalow to provide larger accommodation & a large garage in block. Properties of this character rarely become available in lovely semi-rural locations like this, therefore we urge interested parties to view immediately to avoid disappointment.

GUIDE PRICE : £600,000 - £650,000

1.5 ACRE

S

Kelvedon Hatch

A THREE BEDROOM DETACHED BUNGALOW SET WELL BACK FROM THE ROADSituated in one of the villages nicest bungalow turnings is this 3 bed detached bungalow which is set well back from the road & being maintained in excellent condition throughout, including a modern, fully equipped kitchen & a luxury shower room. The property has a west facing rear garden.

SOLD similar property required

REDUCED TO

475K

26 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM PLACES WITH POOLS

When the

thermometer starts

to edge upwards

and the sky

turns a beautiful

blue (OK, we’re

hopeful!) there’s

nothing quite like the thought of diving into

a cool pool. Add to that a fabulous view and

room to party and you’re set for the best

summer ever. We’ve picked three properties

with pools that will certainly whet your

appetite for more!

You know you’ve arrived when you survey

the contemporary county house estate of

Farthings on the edge of Sandon village near

Chelmsford. Set in around 1.3 acres this is

an impressive property with an outstanding

detached leisure and pool complex

incorporated within a range of natural and

formal garden areas.

The large outdoor infinity pool is set

within textured white granite and features

underwater coloured lighting creating a

dramatic setting for evening swims. Circular

steps lead in to the water and there is an

innovate ‘swim way’ into the leisure building

leading to a smaller indoor acclimatising

pool. An electrically operated solar roller

cover protects the pool when not in use.

The complex has changing facilities and a

gym/games room featuring bespoke angled

sun-cool glass and stunning views over the

formal lawn and beyond.

The house itself provides over 5,500 sq

ft of luxury accommodation with well-

proportioned rooms and high ceilings and

has been presented with neutral tones and

contemporary fittings throughout. There are

six bedrooms all offering en suite facilities,

four of which have been orientated to

capture the wonderful views to the rear over

the rolling countryside. Four ground floor

receptions rooms in addition to a stunning

kitchen/family room are creatively designed

to provide practicability and family living.

Farthings is on the market for £2.8m with

Fenn Wright; 01245 292100

YOU CAN IMAGINE the tinkle of glasses

and gentille laughter from the poolside

of Garwood Cottage, a quintessential

Norfolk Reed thatched family residence

in Rawreth, Wickford. Double doors from

the light-filled garden room open onto the

pool and beautifully maintained landscaped

gardens of around two acres. An ample

terrace surrounds the classically shaped,

heated pool providing space for relaxing

and entertaining and there are changing

facilities too to keep any soggy towels and

wet feet away from the house. The elevated

aspect allows views of the secluded and

well-stocked gardens as well as the attractive

beamed house as swimming commences

The property is approached via a sweeping

shingle driveway accessed through electric

gates that lead to the house and double

garage. It’s a house made for entertaining

with four spacious reception rooms,

including the triple-aspect drawing room

with parquet flooring and exposed inglenook

fireplace. The five double bedrooms, four

with en suites, also enjoy views over the

garden. And when the swimming finishes

there’s a snooker room, complete with a

corner bar and cloakroom and a fabulous

hard-surface tennis court in the grounds to

play a few a sets.

Garwood Cottage has a price tag of £1.15m

and is for sale with Beresfords;

01245 807265

FOR A CONVERSATION piece like no other,

check out this watery gem. Dynes Cottage

is just a short walk from sought-after

Finchingfield, offering not only a fabulous

five-bedroom period home but also a range

of outbuildings including a barn with a

stunning indoor heated swimming pool

complex within. Dramatic paintings of sea

legends adorning the ceiling of the barn will

inspire an awesome workout and when the

lights are low, stairs lead up to the viewing

gallery with a bar and balcony adjacent to

an en-suite bedroom. There are also two

handy changing rooms and a cloakroom. On

the ground floor, there’s a kitchen, bar and

dining area ideal for throwing a fabulous

party. Eight sets of double doors open out

on the extensive wrap-around 11.5 acres

plot with lawns leading to paddocks, an all-

weather manège, stable blocks and hay barn.

The main thatched cottage itself has five

bedrooms accessed by two staircases, with

the potential for separate teenage areas,

three reception rooms and a wealth of period

features including heavy oak doors, beams

and open fireplaces.

Dynes Cottage is on the market for £1.55m

with Mullucks Wells; 01371 872117

Cool pool partnersWho needs the Med when you can create your own splash back home? asks Fiona Brondhorst

Farthings

Garwood Cottage

Dynes Cottage

...Buying a new home is a big decision, so you’ll want to know that your property is of good quality and your investment well protected.

Only builders approved and registered by NHBC can offer Buildmark, and they must build to the detailed technical standards we have

been developing and updating for more than 75 years.

It will give you peace of mind to know that all new homes with NHBC’s Buildmark have been independently inspected at key stages

during construction, and come with 10 years’ warranty and insurance.

This gives you the reassurance that, on the rare occasion when something does go wrong, we’re here to help you.

So, before you buy a new home, make sure it has Buildmark.

NHBC – the mark of a quality home

H82 02/14

Talk to us... Call us now on 0844 633 1000 and ask for ‘Customer Services’. Or visit www.nhbc.co.uk/myhome

H82_What House? advert_v1.indd 1 19/02/2014 12:15

Let. us do the work

www.belvoirlettings.com

We would highly recommend Belvoir as they have been exemplary in their service over the last five years we have been working with them. From Senior Management to the office support staff their attitude is always positive and they always

provide a swift response and a caring approach to both us and our tenants. Over the last five years they have let and managed properties for us and managed a leasehold management company. We would highly recommend them to

anyone who is considering renting their properties. Angela and Steve

Belvoir Basildon - the office has been very supportive and accommodating to me, especially Keeley and Sophie. They have always kept me updated regarding the maintenance and the arrears and have always responded to my emails as

quickly as possible and have always helped as much as they can’. Rna - Landlord

I’ve used Belvoir for a number of years to manage my properties and appreciate the hard work the team put in to making my life stress free. I would never go back to managing my own properties again. Darren - Landlord

Having known the team at Belvoir for some time I knew I could place my property in good hands. They also let my property in 3 days! Phil - Landlord

Belvoir have let and managed a number of properties for me since 2007. Its great to deal with a Team who give a personal yet professional service. With minimal voids and an easy to understand accounting system I would recommend

you guys to anyone, and have done. Keep up the good work. George - Landlord

Keeley we would just like to say thank you to you and your team for looking after our portfolio of properties. The service you provide is comprehensive and means that we’re able to get on with our retirement secure in the knowledge that

the properties are being properly managed on our behalf. Having dealt with you, and Sophie, personally for some time I was pleased to hear that you bad decided to take over the Basildon, Grays and Southend areas. I wish you well with

this venture and look forward to continuing our valued relationship.We are happy to recommend your services to anyone thinking of changing agents or becoming a first time landlord. Steve & Gill - Landlords

Let. us do the work

www.belvoirlettings.comTel: 01268 411110 / 01702 334466 / 01708 730077

See what our customers and clients are saying about us!!

ith average fi rst-time buyer deposits soaring to over 30% of the property value,

affordable house purchase schemes have rocketed in popularity. For example Help to Buy has helped over 88,000 buyers, and over 40,000 people have taken advantage of alternative housing solutions, such as shared ownership.

The G15, a collaboration of London’s largest housing associations, including Genesis, collectively manages over 410,000 affordable homes and build 10,000 more annually, illustrating how popular these options are becoming. Shared ownership in particular has both short-term and long-term benefi ts for those who want to get on the property ladder but are struggling to raise a deposit or secure a traditional mortgage.

How does shared ownership work?

Providing you meet the criteria (see P32), shared ownership schemes are a great way to get onto the property ladder and you may fi nd you can buy a bigger home than you would otherwise have been able to afford, especially with the opportunity of staircasing.

When you fi rst buy a new home through shared ownership, you purchase a share of the property, typically between 25-75%, paying rent

on the remaining share to the housing association, who then in effect become your landlord. As and when you’re able to afford it, you can take steps to buy additional shares until you own 100% of your home. This is known as staircasing.

Do all housing associations offer staircasing?

Most housing associations will allow their tenants to staircase up to three times, until you reach100% ownership. As well as owning more of your home, staircasing also means the amount of rent you pay decreases, so it can help free up more of your disposable income. As the rent is affordable from the start, it should make it easier to save money towards further staircasing.

Will staircasing cost me?

Purchasing further shares works much like a typical house purchase, with valuations required for each ‘step’, and you will of course need to pay the legal fees, and any mortgage fees, if applicable, too. On the plus side, you’ll not need to pay any Stamp Duty on staircasing up to 80% ownership if the value is less than £125,000.

How you fund the purchase of additional shares is up to you, although typically this is done through a mortgage lender – most building societies and high street banks offer

these types of mortgages. Some providers will allow you to borrow up to 95%, meaning you only need a 5% deposit to secure the next slice of ownership. Speak to an independent mortgage advisor to fi nd out what options you have.

As an outright owner, although you no longer need to pay any rent on the property, it is worth noting as leaseholder of an apartment, you’re still required to pay management charges, such as ground rent, as the housing association will remain the freeholders of the land. If you’ve bought a house, the freehold can be transferred to you upon reaching 100% ownership.

What would I need to do when I come to sell my shared ownership home?When you want to sell the property, you can sell the share you own through your housing association, or if you’ve staircased up to 100%, you can sell it in on the open market, through an estate agent of your choice. When you sell your home, the greater percentage you own, the more profi t you will make if the value of your home has increased, so there’s a benefi t to staircasing in getting more equity back when you sell up.

Find out more at www.genesisha.org.uk; 033 3000 4000

Stepping upTony Harker of Genesis explains how shared ownership can be the perfect platform to become a fully-fl edged owner-occupier

housing associations 35For the latest on the property market @What_House

W

peabodysales.co.uk

London has been our home for over 150 years.

Make it yours.

St John’s Way SW11A new way of life is emerging in the heart of Battersea

1, 2 & 3 bed apartments and 3 & 4 bed triplexesPrices coming soon

Call to register: 020 3369 8728

COMING SOON

With 16 years of lettings industry experience, and five years working for Belvoir, 30-year old Keeley

Taylor was the perfect candidate to take over as franchisee of the Belvoir Lettings Franchise in Basildon. She is now director of Belvoir Basildon which covers the territories of Basildon, Romford and Southend-on-Sea.

Her loyalty to the Belvoir brand and love for all things lettings meant that she elected to take over the business when the franchise became available.

“It really felt like the right step for me when I was offered the chance to become the Franchisee,” she explains, “having worked at the office in Basildon since 2006 (primarily when it was known as ‘Let it Be and then as part of Belvoir when it was bought out by them in 2010). The company initially started nine years ago and it was just the director and me at that time. We had no properties and strived to create and grow a client-base. Since then the business has grown tremendously.”

Keeley’s contacts have held her in good stead. “I’ve worked at the office for so long so I have some great relationships with the existing

landlords and tenants and it’s fabulous to be able to build the business and guide it in a new direction.”

Keeley is just one of many new franchise owners for Belvoir who have been a successful lettings agency with an award winning service for nearly two decades.

Offices across the UK such as the one Keeley runs in Basildon, are individually owned by local people, which the company believe ensures the best combination of knowledge and marketing effectiveness, such as the franchisee’s familiarity with the local schools and facilities; knowing the better areas to live in and why some houses are more attractive to locals whilst others will attract newcomers to an area.

“I always felt strongly supported by the staff and the management at Belvoir’s Central Office and have good relationships with them, so the decision to become a franchisee once the possibility arose was an easy one,” Keeley says. “I couldn’t wait to be part of a network. I would recommend anyone looking into a Lettings Franchisee role to contact Belvoir’s head office in Grantham, they’ve been fantastic.”

Keeley adds: “I am very enthusiastc about growing Belvoir Basildon and its future.”

Moving house needn’t be a nightmare - just make your move with Belvoir. Made in Essex speak to Belvoir Basildon’s new Franchisee and director Keeley Taylor

Dream move

SECRET ESSEX WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 29

The village of Ingatestone has

been in the news – last week it

was tipped as one of the UK’s top

family-friendly villages by The

Times Bricks & Mortar property

supplement; local resident Barney McCarthy

was quoted singing its praises.

But did you know that Ingatestone has its

own news page on Facebook? Another local,

Sarah McArthur, started Ingatestone News

18 months ago as a kind of neighbourhood

watch so residents could keep their eyes and

ears pealed. It now has over 1,000 members.

Sarah says: “We’ve relocated lost dogs,

cats and property as well as everyone just

looking out for each other. It's helped new

villagers find what they need to settle in,

local businesses have gained new customers

and generally I hope it's been useful to those

who've come across it. I love this village

and think community spirit is so important

for us all from the elderly to the younger

members - who incidental are also joining

this page! It’s wonderful that our little village

gets all these mentions.”

Hot propertySaffron Walden was also given the thumbs

up for families and David Emberson,

residential director at Mullucks Wells agrees:

“Homes in Saffron Walden attract a premium

of between 10-20% on their prices compared

to those in surrounding villages. The

housing market has been extremely buoyant

recently and a high proportion of properties

have barely hit the market before they have

been sold.”

Village peopleMeanwhile The Daily Telegraph gave a

nostalgic mention to the award-winning

village of Blackmore. The vision of ambling

through on a bone-shaker bike and resting

by the duck pond or having a pint in one

of its three cosy pubs is much revered. And

where do Londoners move when they quit

the city? Brentwood of course, according

to HomeLet, who provide insurance and

tenant referencing. Those seeking cheaper

rents are choosing the increasingly better

connected town to save a few pounds without

compromising on their lifestyle.

Is there a secret about Essex you would

like to share with readers – it could be a

great pub, a feel-good community event or

just a shout-out for your favourite garage

that never rips you off. Please email us at

ko@whathouse.com with details and your

contact number or email and we’ll try to

feature your updates.

SECRET ESSEX

More than meets the eye…

On the doorstep of the local beauty spot Langdon

Hills Country Park, with its panoramic views over

the Thames Estuary and across to London, more

than half of the homes at Arcadia are already sold,

with new releases just announced.

Families, retirees and young professionals are

being wooed by the select range of just 98 three-,

four- and five-bedroom character homes with

landscaped gardens and plenty of parking.

Laindon station, with trains to Fenchurch Street every 15 minutes,

is a major plus for commuters and retail therapy is on hand at

Basildon’s popular Eastgate Shopping Centre, just a 10-minute drive

away. Southend-on-Sea is only a short drive away and golf clubs

and a range of sporting amenities are also close by, so keeping fit is

definitely an option for new residents.

The latest release at Arcadia is ‘The Willerby’, a five-bedroom

double-fronted detached home reminiscent of a prime London villa,

set across three floors. Spacious living accommodation on the ground

floor includes a stylish contemporary kitchen

with a convenient separate utility room,

lounge with French doors leading to the

rear garden, study and dining room off the

kitchen.

The first floor has three double bedrooms,

including the master bedroom with its ‘must-

have’ dressing area with built-in wardrobes

and en suite. Two further double bedrooms

and a family bathroom are found on the

top floor with far reaching views from the

picturesque attic-style windows.

Priced at £499,995, ‘The Willerby’ comes

with a sought-after double garage plus an

impressive six parking spaces – ideal for

families with teenage drivers and ample

room for when friends and family visit.

‘The Osterley’, a three-bedroom detached

house priced at £307,995 will be available

soon closely followed by two three-bedroom

semi-detached homes, ‘The Studland’ and

‘The Chastleton’ townhouse.

Specifications for all homes at Arcadia are

high with a choice of kitchen units, worktops

and tiling for those buyers reserving early

in the construction stages. Arcadia is open

daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm,

Find out more at www.bloorhomes.com01268 857834

Buyers are giving the thumbs up to Arcadia the new Bloor Homes development in Laindon on the outskirts of Basildon

Work, rest and play

28 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

Electrolux Group: Industry Leaders in Household Durables for eight consecutive years.

Electrolux has retained its position as Industry Leader in the Household Durables category for the eighth consecutive year in the latest Dow Jones Sustainability Indices.

Electrolux is the only company in the Household Durables category to qualify for Dow Jones Sustainability Indices World, and has been included in DJSI every year since the index was launched in 1999.

For more information, go to www.sustainability-indices.com

Sustainability is an integral part of the Electrolux Group’s strategy, and we are therefore especially proud to have achieved the highest score of the Household Durables category for our efforts in the environmental area.

Henrik SundströmHead of Sustainability Affairs at Electrolux.

‘‘

‘‘

30 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM NEW HOMES

The Help to Buy scheme

have allowed a young

couple from Thurrock

take their first steps

onto the property ladder.

Luke Tyson, 27, and

Lauren Dobson, 28, are

settling into their two

bedroom apartment at

Evolve, the Barratt Homes Eastern Counties

development in Grays.

The couple, both from Thurrock, wanted

to stay in the area for work and to be near

to friends and family but feared they would

be priced out of the market. However they

were able to take advantage of the Help to

Buy scheme, to buy their first home, for

which they needed just a 5% deposit.

“We were saving for a couple of years,

trying to find a 5 to 10% deposit and when

house prices started increasing, we knew

it would be a struggle.” said Luke, a dental

practice manager. He added: “ We came

to the realization that if it was going to

happen, it really had to be with Help to Buy

as prices were going up at a higher price

than we could save.”

Help to Buy is available for new home

up to a maximum value of £600,000. Once

homebuyers have saved a 5% deposit, the

government will lend them 20% of the value

of the property in the form of an interest

free equity loan.

Luke said that he and Lauren , a pupil

well-being ambassador, liked the idea of

the Help to Buy scheme because it enabled

to move into a new property with the

accompanying warranties. He says: “When

you’re buying an existing property, you are

always worried about what could go wrong

but we don’t have any of those worries.”

Barratt Homes provides a five year

warranty on the fixtures and fittings

installed at the time of purchase to the first

owner or purchaser of the home. Three

bedroom homes are available to buy now on

the Evolve development, using Help to Buy,

with prices starting from £264,995.

Luke and Lauren are just one example

of the success of Help to Buy in Essex. The

county is top in the East of England for

the number of Help to Buy sales with 1,591

recorded in the last two years according

to figures released by the Homes and

Communities Agency (HCA).

Jason Colmer, Sales Director at Barratt

Homes Eastern Counties, said: “It is fantastic

that Help to Buy has enabled Luke and

Lauren to buy their first property and

I would like to take the opportunity to

welcome them to Evolve”.

Find out more about Evolve at

www.barratthomes.co.uk or call the sales

information line on 0844 8114888. The line

is open from 8am-9pm Monday to Friday

and until 8pm Saturday to Sunday.

Couple take their first step on property ladder thanks to Help to Buy

...you are always worried about what could go wrong but we

don’t have any of those worries.

VIRIDIUMCamberley, Surrey

Luxury collection of 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments.

To book an appointment

call: 01276 66693

*Available with Help to Buy subject to terms and conditions

• Award winning development 2015 FTB awards

• Gated entrance with parking

• Stunning spacious apartments with Balcony or terrace

• Carpets included

• Luxury fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms

• Help to Buy available

JUST 5%DEPOSIT*

HODSONDEVELOPMENTS

Prices from

£285,000

We’re open for business, whatever the climate.

For the last 40 years, through all market conditions, we’ve consistently lent to residential property developers. So if you’re looking for funds, you won’t find a more experienced, flexible and reliable business partner.

To find out how we can help your development, please call Close Brothers Property Finance on 020 7655 3655 or visit closepropertyfinance.com

Close Brothers I Modern Merchant Banking

C54427 CBPF_EG_Blue_297x210.indd 1 23/04/2015 11:38

OUTDOORS WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 33

Glamp rocks!The style and comfort of festival-goers are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Richenda Oldham reviews what’s cool in glamping

Perfect for a table top decoration, this summer meadow mat is an amusing addition to any lunch party. It measures 25cm square and costs just £10, www.tch.net

These stunning melamine tumblers feature different eye-catching exotic bird designs, but are well able to withstand the rigours of festival life, being tough and dishwasher safe, £7.50 each, www.oakroomshop.co.uk

Relax in style with Laura Ashley�s

Lollipops folding chair, £35, www.lauraashley.com

The design of this bell tent was first used by the

military in the 19th century. It�s not hard to see why

they are still popular today, being quick and easy to put up/take down, coral

red bell tent, £459, www.boutiquecamping.com

How cool is this salad container with its own neatly zipped jacket, which will insulate your salad for up to four hours? BUILT New York Salad Bowl Lush Flower, £14.99, www.creative-tops.com

www.inlandhomes.co.uk

The Comptons, Wooburn GreenCharterhouse Mews, Chelmsford Vista, Drayton Garden Village St John’s, Chelmsford

Carter’s Quay, Poole

Showhome open at this development Please check website for current availability. Computer generated illustrations are indicative only and subject to change.

For further details call 01494 762 450 or email sales@inlandhomes.co.uk

Inland Homes are currently regenerating areas acrossthe South providing quality homes with an emphasison design and sustainability. Visit our fabulous rangeof Showhomes to discover more.

DEVELOPMENTS INCLUDE:

Carter’s Quay, Poole1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

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Creating newcommunitiesacross the South

PRESTIGE HOME WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM | 35

For those looking to escape the

hustle and bustle of London,

Weston Homes is assisting

with the re-sale of ‘Woodlands’,

a unique retreat in Chigwell

Row, Essex.

Located in a private road, this

contemporary, architect-designed, five-

bedroom house, presented to an immaculate

standard of specification and interior finish,

is positioned behind a high automatic gate

and set in terraced landscaped gardens, with

a private woodland walk leading directly to

a 336-acre country park. What’s more, the

property was bespoke designed three years

ago for the chairman of Weston Homes, Bob

Weston.

As one of the UK’s leading property

developers, the Essex-based housebuilder

is used to building, marketing and selling

some of the country’s finest homes.

Reflecting on Weston Homes and the new

homes that they offer, after the multi-

award winning company was crowned

Housebuilder of the Year at the WhatHouse?

Awards in 2010, the WhatHouse? Awards

judges acknowledged that Weston

Homes “builds and designs very well”;

demonstrating “boldness and initiative”.

They even went as far as describing Weston

Homes as “salt of the earth with a sprinkling

of stardust”.

But ‘Woodlands’, which backs onto

Hainault Forest Country Park, is a

particularly special property. The

ecologically friendly L-shaped house

provides 3,900 sq ft of luxurious

accommodation which consists of 3,200 sq ft

of internal living space over lower ground,

ground and first floor and a single-storey

side wing; with folding glass walls opening

onto a 700-sq-ft outside entertaining terrace,

complete with landscaped gardens.

Aside from benefitting from extensive

entertaining space and lifestyle amenities,

including private cinema, gymnasium,

sauna and glass-walled wine display/store,

the property offers parking for five large

vehicles with a detached double garage

with feature glass walls, a large parking

forecourt that can accommodate three cars

and a separate bicycle store/tool shed.

The terrace serves as a spacious outside

room with an entertaining and dining area

bordered by a custom-designed outside

brick-built barbeque kitchen with cooking

appliances, hot and cold water, gas,

electricity, storage and drinks/food bar.

Built to the property industry’s Code

Level 5 for sustainable homes, this property

is packed with environmentally friendly

features, including sunlight-/heat-capturing

argon-filled triple glazing; brownwater

recycling; rainwater harvesting; solar

power generation; and ground source heat

recovery.

Jonathan Lewis, sales and marketing

director at Weston Homes, says: “Backing

directly onto the country park, this

architect-designed executive house

was bespoke designed and provides

spectacular entertaining space and family

accommodation. Unique for a property in the

local area, the house combines luxury with

eco-chic credentials and for security reasons

has a discreet and private location behind

existing family housing off Lambourne

Road.

“The local area is known for its celebrity

and City broker residents and this house is

ideal for a high-net-worth or high-profile

individual who wants security and privacy

for their family.”

The asking price for this one-off gem is

£1.6m. Viewing is strictly by appointment

by contacting either Weston Homes on

01279 873 333 (www.weston-homes.com)

or Dream Pad on 01992 661120.

Stars in your eyes?

Join the celeb-studded neighbourhood of Chigwell with this glamorous and unique property

ELEGANCE & ARTISTRY

*Price correct at time of going to press. Computer generated image of Barts Square.

CRAFTED RESIDENCES IN HISTORIC SMITHFIELD, EC1

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01237 459 998 | Grenville Wharf, 6a The Quay, Bideford EX39 2HW

morrisandbott.co.uk

Take the first step today and find out how we can make your property a success.

01237 426 712

Unlock your holiday home’s potential

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5 | 4 | 3 • Stunning elevated position• 5 Bedrooms / 3 en-suite• 3 Reception rooms• Breathtaking river views

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For full details, or to view more of our portfolio, visit our website

Morris and Bott - HC - What House.indd 1 29/04/2015 15:08

38 | WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM SO YOU WANT A HOME...

Essex maybe one of the

prettiest Home Counties

but it’s also one of the most

reasonable to buy a family

home. According to haart

estate agents, average

prices in London are up

16.7% annually to £536,286, driven by 20

prospective buyers chasing each property.

No wonder buyers are fl ocking to Essex!

Here’s what on offer if your budget is a cool

half-a-million.

1 Grace and favourThis turn-of-the-century detached home in

the suburbs of Harlow is perfect for family

buyers looking for space and charm with

its fi ve bedrooms and plethora of original

features, including fi replaces, wooden fl oors

and sash windows. Families love space,

so the two separate receptions rooms will

be well used, as well as an eat-in kitchen

with wood-burning stove and butler sink.

A utility room leads off with a door to the

garden.

The fi rst fl oor has four double bedrooms,

one en suite, and a family bathroom. The

master bedroom is a loft conversion on the

second fl oor and is a wonderful retreat for

parents, with its own dressing room and en

suite. Located on the popular Kingsmoor

Road, there is a spacious garden to the

rear and plenty of off-street parking along

with a carport for two cars. Harlow is well

connected to the city by train in 30 mins.

Guide price £500,000.

Selling agent: haart Harlow 01279 443311

2 Designer dreamTime is precious, so moving to a high-

specifi cation state-of-the-art home means

no DIY and more downtime with family

and friends. This fi ve-bedroom detached

home in a quiet close of executive houses

in Great Totham, near Maldon, has been

extended and modifi ed to appeal to the

families where commuting is on the agenda.

Trains take around 45 minutes to London

Liverpool Street from nearby Witham. A

highly impressive, huge open-plan kitchen/

lounge/dining room with up-to-the-minute,

on-trend bi-folding doors has been created

opening on to the rear garden with two

decked patios. The kitchen offers integral

appliances and an island unit with induction

hob and inset sink. A separate living room

overlooks the front garden. The ground fl oor

features wooden fl ooring and underfl oor

heating. Five bedrooms, with an en suite to

the master, are to the fi rst fl oor, as well as

a family bathroom with free-standing bath.

Good local schools will score highly with

families looking to move to the area.

Priced at £499,950.

Selling agent: Church & Hawes in

Maldon 01621 855195

3 Escape to the countrySet to appeal to the aspiring country living

set, this detached home in Little Clacton has

the wow factor in abundance, with plenty

of space within and the added bonus of a

converted double garage annex space. With

lush green grass, blooming foliage and a

steaming hot tub, it’s the perfect setting for

summer BBQs and lazy weekends.

Set in almost one-third of an acre, the

free-fl owing accommodation oozes charm

with its muted colour palette and shabby

chic ambience. The double-aspect lounge

opens on to the dining room which links

through to the kitchen. A study to the front

of the property and conservatory to the

rear of the property give privacy when it’s

needed.

On the fi rst fl oor there are four spacious

bedrooms, with the master enjoying its own

full bathroom, and a separate family shower

room. The garden is mainly laid to lawn and

enclosed with panel fencing. A canopied area

houses a Jacuzzi which is to remain for the

new owner. With some of the county’s fi nest

beaches (Frinton-on-Sea, Walton-on-the-Naze

and Clacton-on-Sea) within in a short drive

and Thorpe-Le-Soken’s main line station

nearby, this home offers a sought-after

lifestyle change.

Offers in excess of £500,000.

Selling agent: haart Little Clacton

01255 222666

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So you want a home...that costs around £500,000

3...average prices in London are up 16.7% annually,

driven by 20 prospective buyers chasing each property. No wonder buyers are fl ocking to Essex!

Fiona Brandhorst fi nds out what’s on the market to make your wish come true

1 2

!

Professional. Experienced. Local Knowledge. Saving You Money!!!

Read Properties is an independently run full service Estate Agency, who’s Managing Director Gary Read has years of local knowledge and experience in all aspects of residential sales and lettings covering South Essex.

!

The world is changing at a fast pace and so is the world of Estate Agency. We at Read Properties are embracing these changes with the latest equipment and operating procedures allowing us to be office based and fully mobile, therefore providing our clients a full service in or out of office hours. For this reason we are able to offer our clients exceptional value for money with our flexible and competitive fee structure.

Our Upfront Fee starts from £499 plus VAT or No Sale No Fee 0.5% plus VAT for Sole Agency. Let only 2 weeks. You the client are in control of how much you want to pay and when.

Call now for a free no obligation market appraisal.

☏ 01277 500 530 ✉ sales@read-properties.com ! www.read-properties.com

As political uncertainty

regarding the General

Election subsided, the

number of mortgages

for house purchases

rose by 12.8% in

June compared to

May, making it the

strongest month for house purchase loans

since January 2014.

The figures show increased confidence

in the market with a leading expert calling

them “the summer comeback we’ve all been

waiting for”.

The latest Mortgage Monitor report from

e.surv, the UK’s largest chartered surveyor,

has revealed that house purchase mortgage

approvals rallied in June to a 17-month

high. There were 72,712 house purchase

approvals in June, up 12.8% on the 64,434

recorded in May.

The monthly increase is the largest

month-on-month improvement since

February 2009 and house purchase

approvals have also risen significantly on an

annual basis, with this June seeing 10.5%

more approvals than the 65,794 recorded 12

months ago.

Richard Sexton, director of e.surv

chartered surveyors, says: “This is the

summer comeback we’ve been waiting for.

Potential borrowers clearly paused their

actions whilst the election came and went.

But now borrowers are back in the market

for mortgages and demand is stronger than

ever.

“Interest rates have remained at record

lows with a dovish outlook from the Bank of

England’s Monetary Policy Committee, and

we’re seeing a bevy of fixed-rate options as

banks compete for buyers’ business. More

positivity among buyers and lenders alike

means the market is now on a stable course

of sustainable lending.”

The data from e.surv also revealed that

June saw an increase in the number of

mortgage approvals for borrowers with

a small deposit (15% or less). There were

12,288 approvals for higher loan-to-value

(LTV) house purchase loans in June, a

17.7% improvement on the 10,438 recorded

in May and up 5.5% on the 11,646 seen in

June 2014.

The number of higher LTV loans reached

its highest monthly volume since April

2008, when there were 12,572 approvals in

this category.

Sexton adds: “It’s a clear case of growing

confidence spreading beyond those already

securely on the property ladder. Higher LTV

borrowers – typically first-time buyers – are

still reaping the benefits from initiatives like

Help to Buy.

“But this significant increase in lending

to borrowers with smaller deposits goes

deeper than the various plans in place to

help this group. It’s a sign that the nation’s

finances are getting back in order, with

wage growth starting to mount and an

economy ready to shake off the doldrums

and get back to work.”

WWW.WHATHOUSE.COM MORTGAGES

House purchase mortgage approvals hit 18-month highNew figures have revealed that confidence returned to the mortgage market

Found a house you love?

We’ll find you the perfect mortgage to match.

Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is a registered company in England & Wales under company number 06334944. Prolific Mortgage Finance Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Home Counties Mortgage Protection and Finance Ltd who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. There may be occasions where we may charge a fee which will depend on your circumstances. In these situations we will inform you at an early stage, the fee typically being no more that 1% of the total loan amount.YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED UPON IT. The actual premium for protection products will depend upon individual circumstances. Please ask us for a specific customer illustration be contacting us by completing our enquiry form or telephone the office directly. *The above mentioned products are not regulated by the FCA and accordingly the protection normally afforded does not apply.

whathouse.com/mortgages

We specialise in all types of mortgages including:

• New Home purchases• First time buyers• Remortgaging• House Moves

• Self employed• Landlords• Buy to Let• Specialised bespoke options

your property, our business

01252 356000

Why choose ELM Group?• Higher sales & rental values achieved with our outstanding

property management service

• We advise & assist with RTM & self-enfranchisement setup for our clients

• We offer bespoke leasehold property management to our clients

• Advisory head-lease setup service for developers

• ELM Group are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Homes & Communities Agency

• Two months FREE property management fees on a minimum fixed one year contract

We are proud to present our partner for sales & lettings in the South East of England www.martinco.com

www.elmgroup.org.ukenquiries@elmgroup.org.uk

Ethical  Leasehold  Management  –    leading  the  way  in    leasehold  property  management     Ethical Leasehold Management – leading the way in leasehold property management