Property News UK

Quality Property Albania Has Been Waiting For

2008-04-13T18:33:00.001+01:00

Albania has been likened to the emerging market of Bulgaria some three or four years ago. The country is at the very cusp of a property boom. European investment is pouring into the region in the millions and the capital city of Tirana is catching the eye of keen investors, especially with EU accession on the cards for 2014.

Location is key, and international property agents Barrasford & Bird Worldwide have released their exclusive Colombo II development within a few minutes walking distance of the city centre.

Albania holds many surprises. Gone are the days of communism, revealing a country and a people that are embracing a bright future within Europe. Rolling countryside, vast and dramatic coastlines and bustling modern cities await to surprise those that visit and visiting is easy with direct flights from the UK. Albania shares the same stunning coastlines as Montenegro and Croatia. Coastal resorts are charming and underdeveloped affairs with potential obvious around every corner.

The capital city of Tirana is where the surprises certainly hold promise. The bustling city centre of Skanderbeg Square is a protected site of great significance. Outside the city limits Dajti mountain soars skyward, drawing in the tourists with its beautiful views and dramatic scenery.

The newly released development of Colombo II is in one of the most sought after residential areas of Tirana. Located within easy walking distance of Skanderbeg square, the development has wonderful view of Tirana and the Dajti mountain. The development is perfect for corporate or residential rentals. Colombo II is built to ISO EU standards, an exceptionally high level for the property market in Tirana. Due to the quality build and the sought after location, a residential rental or corporate rental market would return a projected 11% in rental per annum.

Robin Barrasford, Managing Director of Barrasford & Bird Worldwide comments, “As pioneers of the Bulgarian property market, our experience points to Albania as one of the last pseudo-European countries that will offer excellent returns for investors. While the coastal resorts are an interesting lifestyle choice, the capital city is where we believe the returns will be the highest.”

Colombo II offers one bedroom apartments from €61,000, two bedroom apartments from €76,000 and three bedroom apartments from €120,000. 50% finance is available.

Colombo II is marketed exclusively through Barrasford and Bird Worldwide. The Devon based overseas property and development agents market properties from various worldwide destinations including Greece, Bulgaria and Brazil and are founding members of the Association of International Property Professionals.

www.bandbw.co.uk
0800 1 303 101
info@bandbw.co.uk

Instant Offices Group Powers Into The Sunday Times Top 100 Best Small Companies To Work For League 2008

2008-03-04T14:26:00.001Z

Instant Offices Group, the world’s leading flexible office space provider, today secured 76th place in the prestigious Sunday Times Top 100 Best Small Companies to Work for league 2008.

The award recognises the group’s proven strengths as an employer, based on confidential and in-depth employee surveys conducted by Best Companies. The 60-strong global workforce rated Rob Hamilton, Founder and Managing Director of the Instant Office Group as an excellent leader, who truly lives the values of the organisations, and in whom they have a great deal of faith. Instant Offices Group also scored particularly well in the management and well-being categories of the survey, propelling it into this year’s exclusive ranking.

Best Companies also found that, in the management category, Instant Offices Group employees reported that their managers cared about their job satisfaction levels, and motivated them to perform well daily. The balance between work and home life, and the impact of these factors on personal health and performance, were also highly favourable.

Commenting on the prestigious award, Jonathan Austin, Chief Executive, Best Companies, said, “I would like to congratulate Instant Offices Group on its outstanding achievement in featuring in this year’s Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For in the Best Small Companies category. We have set a rigorous benchmark with a stringent methodology so that organisations can become even better employers. Coming 76th in this prestigious league is an amazing achievement!"

Rob Hamilton, Founder and Managing Director of Instant Offices Group, said, “On behalf of the whole team here at Instant Offices Group, I would like to say how delighted we are to feature in the exclusive Sunday Times Top 100 Best Small Companies to Work For list. We recruit passionate, committed and highly-skilled individuals, whose combined efforts continue to steer us from success to success. We feel that employees’ efforts should be recognised and rewarded, in the context of the hard-working, innovative and high-energy workplace that Instant Offices Group offers. We are constantly striving to support, nurture and challenge our staff, and would like to thank the Sunday Times and Best Companies for recognising our efforts and effectiveness on this front.”

Authentic Swiss Chalet For Sale

2008-02-22T20:16:00.001Z

One of Crans Montana’s last remaining authentic chalets is now available for sale. Built in 1789 and overlooking the Valais Alps and Lake Grenon, this charming chalet is priced at CHF 4,850,000.

With its traditional mountain-style architecture and interiors, the property is spread over three floors and boasts five bedrooms and five bathrooms. Outside, there is a well-established garden that is crossed by a stream.

Matthew Hodder-Williams, International Residential, Knight Frank, comments:"Following the uncertainty of the 2006/2007 season, we are witnessing a renewed interest in Alpine property, especially in the established resorts where the recent snowfall has been excellent so far this year. We are certainly seeing Switzerland becoming a much more talked about destination for purchasers where, despite the tight permit system, we are seeing a high level of enquiries about properties on the Swiss side of the border."

A resort since 1893, Crans-Montana is one of Switzerland’s most well-known ski destinations and occupies what is claimed to be the sunniest plateau in the Alps with breathtaking views across the Rhone Valley and the mountain peaks of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Crans-Montana is a large, cosmopolitan resort with over 60 international restaurants, an excellent range of shops, lively nightlife and culture. For summer pursuits, there is an equestrian centre and two signature golf courses.

Crans-Montana is within easy reach of Geneva and Zurich International Airports

'Lady Of The Roses'

2008-02-19T13:26:00.000Z

‘Lady of the Roses’ is a custom made country residence designed in the early 70’s by an Italian architect for an English Baroness. With a distinct British style of architecture still evident today, enriched by Italian flair, this splendid country home boasting extensive grounds, manicured lawns and antique roses, is testimony to the Baroness’ – ‘Lady of the Roses’, - love of her home and beautiful garden.

Close to the medieval village of Cortona, near the city of Arezzo in Tuscany, this idyllic property, set in a south facing position, is well located being easily connected to the highway and just an hour and a half from Florence.

During the 70’s the English Baroness, fell in love with the location of Arezzo and in particular the spot which was to become her future home. Affording far reaching views, the Baroness was delighted to find that the soil was particularly fertile and the land benefited from excellent exposure to the sun all day long. As a keen horticulturist, this was an ideal combination and she set about commissioning her new home, which would forever be a part of England in Italy.

Trinidad Passerini Managing Director of Precious Villas says, “‘Lady of the Roses’ is a residence that has been carefully looked after over the years and by far its biggest accolade is the enchanting garden which offers over 5 ½ acres. The property is further enhanced by olive trees, cypress trees, a vineyard, rose trees and an assortment of over 400 other plants. This is most certainly a property that would be appreciated by a British buyer, not only for the distinctive architecture, but one who shares the same keen interest in gardening.”

The property boasts a superb 4,800 sqft and is split over two levels. It offers two main reception rooms, dining room, kitchen and a mezzanine floor (currently used as a studio). It also has four good sized bedrooms and four bathrooms (two on each level). Despite its rustic charm this property boast numerous modern facilities, including swimming pool, Jacuzzi, alarm system, central heating, automatic irrigation system, double glazing and two water wells.

‘Lady of the Roses’ comes to the market with a price of £1.9 million.

www.preciousvillas.com
sales@preciousvillas.com
0870 899 8023

Cape Verde Government Welcome Investment - Including Wind Farms

2008-02-18T20:08:00.000Z

Government Of Cape Verde Is 100% Behind Tourism And Investment Including New Partnership For Eco Friendly Wind Farms.

Cape Verde, the archipelago of sun drenched islands off the West Coast of Africa, is going through a renaissance. The potential of the islands, because of their easy access to the UK, is immense and bring a “Caribbean” life style within a short flight time. This has been realised by the Government who are taking great strides in establishing the country as a major player in the world market.

News of investors moving into the country is almost daily with major hotel groups appreciating, at an early stage, the islands’ future. A 5* Hilton resort is due to open in 2010.

Now there is news that a partnership between the Cape Verdean State , the power company Electra and Britain’s InfraCo, for construction of wind farms, has been approved by the country’s president.

The partnership is to develop, finance, build, own and operate wind farms in Praia, Mindelo, Sal and Boa Vista. The Cape Verdean authorities plan to make use of this renewable energy source to reduce the cost of power production and minimize the detrimental effects on the environment. In total the four wind farms will produce between 22.5 and 25 megawattts of power, increasing the percentage of wind power produced in the country from 3% to 18% of the total.

Another major investment is that of the Italian business group, Stafanina Friday who have opened a construction material and cement factory, at an investment of around 10 million euros. The factories are located well away from the tourist area but are a major step forward in the creation of the new living environment which is taking the country by storm.

“The country is 100% behind tourism and investment and is continuing to build new roads, improve the airport and expand the ports to cope with the demand”, says Darren Mitchell, Director at Cape V, a company which specialises in property in Cape Verde. “As a company we see enormous potential in owning a property here. In 2007, property prices rose by around 20% which is excellent capital growth. With the ports being used by cruise liners and the increase in direct flights from the UK, it has made Cape Verde an important part of the tourist map. This shows that property ownership will continue its rapid growth. Buying now enables investors to have prime plots, at superb prices, by unspoilt, white sand beaches.”

Currently available on Sal island –
Dunas Beach Resort.
Prices start from just £70,500
20 minutes transfer time from International Airport
This is a premium development of high specification villas in a breathtaking beachfront location on the beautiful white sands. Perfectly position to capitalise on the fast rising popularity of this superb location.
Excellent investment opportunities for rental or resale buyers as well as those looking for a second home.

Tortuga Beach Resort and Spa
Prices from £104,000 for a two bedroom apartment and £264,000 for a villa.
Offers excellent capital growth potential.
There is a wide variety of high specification villas and apartments on one of the few remaining undeveloped white sandy beaches in the world.
Owners benefit from the use of luxury four star hotel with 150 seat restaurants, elegant wine bar and piano bar, courtesy lounge areas, luxury spa and gym, 24 hours reception and concierge and spectacular landscaped gardens. Two communal pools and a variety of shops.

Each villa has a private pool and gardens and each apartment includes a terraced area.

Cape V www.capev.co.uk 0800 915 9227

Real Catch For Fishing Or Boating Types

2008-02-16T15:19:00.000Z

A property that has just come onto the market in Kintbury is going to be quite a catch for anyone who enjoys fishing or messing about in boats.

For the four bedroom family home has its own landing stage and mooring rights on the mill stream and there’s also fishing rights for one rod.

But even if boats and fishing are not really your thing, the outstanding view across the sloping lawn to the mill stream and canal to open country beyond is bound to appeal. The view can be enjoyed from a patio area close to the house or another down on the waterside.

Naturally, you can’t spend all your time sitting in the garden watching the world quite literally drift by so you’ll be keen to know that the well maintained and light and airy house also holds plenty of interest.

At the front the property is the large kitchen and this forms an L-shape as it combines with the breakfast room, where double doors open into the garden. The sitting dining room is again L-shaped, with a window overlooking the front garden and then French doors with glazed side panels and three more windows taking full advantage of the rear outlook.

A turning staircase in the entrance hall rises to the first floor and its four bedrooms. Two, each with two windows, look out to the front and have the bathroom between them while at the rear the other two bedrooms take full advantage of the view across the garden.

To the front of the house is a landscaped and gravelled front garden that provides parking for four or five cars and leads up to the garage. Outside the rear door of the kitchen is a rockery with a fountain while the rear garden is mainly lawn interspersed with trees and shrubs.

Kintbury itself is virtually a self-contained community, with a good range of shops and facilities which are within walking distance of the house in Millbank. For those who need to commute, a walk in the opposite direction will take them to Kintbury’s own mainline station with fast trains to Newbury and London or the west.

Guide price for the house is £485,000. For more details, contact the Hungerford office of Dreweatt Neate on 01488 682808 or email hungerford@dnproperty.co.uk

Single Payment Scheme - 10-Month Rule Abolished

2008-02-10T19:08:00.001Z

DEFRA has announced that the "appropriate date" on which a farmer will be required to have land at his disposal for the purpose of a valid single Payment claim will be 15th May in each year.

The 10-month occupancy rule has been abolished from 1st April 2008 and applies across the whole of the UK.

There may, for some farmers, be an income tax consequence, depending on their accounting year-end date. According to existing principles, the end of the taxpayer's 10-month period was the date on which receipt of the Single Payment was taken to crystallise. One assumes, with the abolition of the 10-month rule and its replacement with the requirement to have matching land only on 15th May that the payment will now be taken to crystallise on that day. This may result in two year’s Single Payment being taken into account in 2007-8 depending upon a farmer’s year-end. Further detail is expected from DEFRA and advice should be sought from your accountants.

Investors Buy Discounted Property...In A Click

2008-02-07T10:19:00.000Z

A ground breaking way to buy discounted property launches today as DiscountPropertyAuction.co.uk (http://www.discountpropertyauction.co.uk), allowing investors to outbid each other and exchange online, all from the comfort of their home, office or even the beach.

With a growing range of properties in England and Wales from £87,000 to £500,000, DiscountPropertyAuction.co.uk can offer all types of homes from small apartments to large, detached properties.

Investment buyer, Brian Croucher bought the first auction property via the site, during pre-launch trials in November 2007. Brian who has since won a number of properties through DiscountPropertyAuction.co.uk, comments: “I have found the whole buying process to be smooth and quick. I have bought several properties via DiscountPropertyAuction from people in all sorts of different situations. They all had one thing in common in that they needed to sell quickly, and the property auction gave them the means to achieve this”.

All properties auctioned on DiscountPropertyAuction.co.uk have a fixed viewing period and the auctions last between five and ten days. The current market value of each property at auction is independently calculated by property tool Home Track, and as soon as the auction is won, seller and buyer have contractually exchanged. There is no commission charged to sellers and the site provides a speedy and affordable system to homeowners suffering from the credit crackdown.

During November 2006 and December 2007, over 30,000 properties went to auction in the UK, averaging an auction price of £167,295. Following The Council of Mortgage Lenders’ forecast that repossessions will increase to 45,000 in 2008 (a 50% increase) and the slowdown in the housing market, high demand is expected amongst homeowners not able to sell their homes quickly enough.

Danny Nieberg, DiscountPropertyAuction.co.uk director, comments: “This is the only website of it’s kind. We bring together motivated sellers who need a quick sale with motivated buyers who have the resources to buy quickly.”

To bid, potential buyers need to be a member of the site. Buyers presently obtain one month’s free membership and pay no joining fee. A finder fee is paid by the buyer upon completion of the property sale.

Italy Hots Up As The Emerging European Markets Catch A 'Chill'

2008-02-03T19:27:00.001Z

Italy has always been a popular destination for both tourists and investors, however exaggerated claims of property price increases in emerging European property markets had led to a slight downturn.

Fortunes have now been reversed and ‘irrepressible Italy’ as a tried and tested market has gained further ground. The East has definitely caught a chill!

Sarah Ferrara Director of Garda Homes says, “Italy was recently promoted into the top 5 countries of choice, by readers of a popular overseas property magazine. I am not surprised by this, as Italy with its own distinct wealth of beauty and architecture has always performed well.
With so many people now actively pursuing an overseas property investment, many have become aware that traditional markets such as Italy offer by far the best route to market. Italy is an established market that sees strong growth each year and is backed by an impressive rental market which is imperative to those who are looking to finance their property for the duration of their investment. To be successful in the overseas markets, property investors have to do their homework and they need to be sure that the country they are investing in has the right ingredients to safeguard their investment, the East at this time cannot subscribe to this; Italy however ticks all the boxes!”

Garda Homes are currently marketing, Residence Borgo Le Torri, in Toscolano Maderno offering stunning views over lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. This one bedroom, 1st floor apartment offering some 60sqm of living space provides an entrance hall, living room with kitchen corner, bedroom, bathroom and a large covered loggia for dining. There is also a communal swimming pool and private garage.

Residence Borgo Le Torri comes to the market at just £180,700

Garda Homes have a range of hundreds of Lake Garda properties through dozens of qualified local agents to suit all budgets and desires with prices starting from just £65,000 and rising up to £7 million, with new properties being added daily.

www.gardahomes.co.uk
00 39 334 397 3375

B&B Opportunity In Idyllic Tuscany

2008-02-03T12:10:00.000Z

Dreaming of moving to pastures new? Fed up with the climate and ever increasing taxes? Precious Villas may have the solution! They are now marketing ‘The Essence of Chianti’ which will allow one lucky investor to realise their dream and to take to task the opportunity of running a B&B in the heart of the Chianti region.

Just four miles from Poggibonsi in the Tuscan countryside lies Sornano, a unique medieval village, which was once a rural farming hamlet. Home to just three families, one family has now decided to sell their part of the Borgo which has been divided into two properties and has been run as a successful B&B. This renovated Borgo maintains a timeless charm with the characteristics of the ancient farmhouses being carefully preserved both in materials and style during the current owners seven years of ongoing restoration work. With traditional architecture and boasting 21st Century facilities along with traditional Tuscan furniture dating from the 18th and 19th Centuries, the two divided properties now provides eight bedrooms and offers a sound business opportunity in beautiful surroundings. In addition there is a third property; a disused barn, which is currently being restored and will offer further accommodation upon completion.

Trinidad Passerini Managing Director of Precious Villas says, “This superbly redeveloped hamlet offers a wonderful opportunity for a family or individual to relocate to the renowned Chianti region and to have a profitable B&B business, offering the finest accommodation, ready to go. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves and offering far reaching views, restoration projects of this magnitude providing an ongoing business opportunity rarely come to the market place. Just 18 miles from Siena and only 21 miles from Florence it is ideally placed and sees a high footfall throughout the year from Italians and foreign tourists who are keen to explore the surrounding countryside and history”

‘The Essence of Chianti’ is a combination of three properties set in landscaped grounds, with a swimming pool from its hillside vantage point.

Property A offers 2,530 sqft, with five bedrooms and bathrooms split over two levels. Currently it is divided into three apartments and also benefits from private gardens, courtyards and underground cellars. Price £980,450

Property B offers 1,937 sqft over two levels and is currently divided into two apartments offering three bedrooms and along with its large living space offers a panoramic square terrace of over 200 sqft. Price £720,000

Property C is currently undergoing extensive restoration and once completed will offer two bedrooms and two bathrooms along with a 3,500 sqft garden. Price £360,000

Trinidad continues, “Both property A and B are sold completely furnished with antiques, country furniture and custom restored details and come as a ‘turnkey’ opportunity. Property C comes to the market unfurnished but adds greater value to the hamlet with additional bedrooms. There is tremendous scope for a year round guest house business, particularly in light of room accommodation averaging approximately £100 per night in the high season.”

www.preciousvillas.com
sales@preciousvillas.com
0870 899 8023

National Eco-Towns Programme ‘Kicks-Off’ In Birmingham

2008-02-03T12:04:00.000Z

At a seminar in Birmingham today leading planning charity, the Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA), highlighted the case for new eco-towns given the striking seasonal changes occurring in the West Midlands region. While annual rainfall has increased in the Midlands by 3% since 1930, seasonal changes are more dramatic - December rainfall has amplified by 38% and July rainfall has plummeted by 31% according to the Environment Agency.

TCPA Chief Executive, Gideon Amos said:

“The affects of climate change are clear to see in the Midlands, with the predictions that the region will experience more storms and flooding in the winter and droughts in summer. We must plan for and adapt to regional climatic variations, ensuring sustainable housing growth and eco-towns are founded on the best environmental data and built to zero-carbon standards.”

The regional housing growth and eco-towns seminar series launched in Birmingham today is being run by the TCPA and Communities and Local Government (CLG), in partnership with the Academy for Sustainable Communities (ASC). The programme aims to assist professionals working in delivery agencies, local authorities, development agencies and professional consultancies, as well as elected members and community groups, in the delivery of eco-towns and more widely in the delivery of new zero-carbon housing growth in the region.

Gideon Amos added:

“We are delighted to be in the West Midlands for our first regional housing growth and eco-town seminar. Planning for sustainable housing growth and eco-towns must be founded on local debate and wherever possible leadership from local authorities and local communities. To take forward this agenda we must share best practice and learn lessons from the experiences of towns and cities throughout the English regions.”

Gill Taylor, Chief Executive of the Academy for Sustainable Communities, said:

“To create and implement new eco-towns we need enough professionals from different sectors with specialist, technical and generic skills to balance complexities such as climate change, social cohesion and economic prosperity. In the West Midlands we know we face a severe shortage of environmental specialists, landscape architects, urban designers, architects and people with skills to develop brownfield sites. We will work closely with national and regional delivery partners to offer practical support to all those involved in developing eco-towns through learning programmes, sharing best practice, networks and resources.”

The Birmingham seminar will include presentations by Clive Dutton OBE, Director of Planning & Regeneration at Birmingham City Council, Gideon Amos, TCPA Chief Executive, Mike Price, Senior Planning Manager at the Government Office for the West Midlands, and Deborah Lamb, Academy for Sustainable Communities Board Member. This is the first of eight regional seminars, running from February until May. Other destinations include Manchester, Reading, Exeter, Nottingham, Leeds, Newcastle and Cambridge.

New Edinburgh Housing Development

2008-01-26T12:23:00.000Z

Bellway Homes unveil three-bedroom properties at new Edinburgh development

A wide range of three-bedroom abodes are now available at Bellway Homes’ latest Edinburgh development. Located in the up-and-coming Forth Quarter, ‘Malmo’ is a sophisticated residential hub for homebuyers searching for a spacious new home in Scotland’s capital.

Boasting a stunning collection of four three-bedroom apartments and five three-bedroom duplex apartments, many of which feature private terrace areas and balconies, at Malmo ‘3’ is most certainly the magic number!

Perfect for individuals seeking the rare commodity of extra space, Malmo’s roomy three-bedroom properties are enormously flexible. The spacious homes are perfect for young professionals, families and couples - allowing for a home office, a games den, a gym or indeed a spare guest room for visiting friends and families.

Built-in wardrobes, en suite facilities, superb storage space and open plan kitchen / lounge areas feature in each of the three-bedroom properties. Chic design touches, such as French doors and windows, allow natural light to flood in, while the ground floor properties benefit from outdoor space…the ultimate home accessory.

Malmo’s three-bedroom duplex apartments are perfect for families looking for a modern family home situated in a vibrant new community. Boasting ample space for parents and kids to while away the hours, the apartments feature en-suite master bedrooms, two spacious floors and extensive storage space, including a useful cloakroom in the main reception area.

Malmo’s three-bedroom properties are also the ideal house choice for young people looking to get onto the property ladder, by means of investing in property together. The well-proportioned, spacious three-bedroom apartments are perfectly formed for communal living; boasting stacks of room, the apartments feature three toilets, a utility room and an open plan kitchen and living area – perfect for socialising and entertaining guests.

However, space is not only central to the interior of Malmo. Externally the development offers under ground parking, tree-lined walkways, landscaped communal gardens – ideal for enjoying a BBQ – and wood decked terrace areas. Forth Quarter is also equipped with a nearby 20-acre park, where homeowners can take in a weekend stroll.

June Sutherland, sales and marketing manager of Bellway Homes (Scotland East) said: “There has already been an enormous amount of interest in the three-bedroom apartments, thanks to the abundance in space and the prime location the homes offer. The three-bedroom duplex styles are particularly appealing to buyers, as they are extremely flexible and most buyers feel as though they are living in a house, rather than an apartment.

“In addition to the exciting collection of spacious apartments, Malmo also offers an entirely unique new residential location - the Forthquarter is emerging as a vibrant new hub for Scotland's capital and is set to become one of the city’s residential hotspots.”

Inspired by the tradition of urban streetscapes of Edinburgh’s New Town, Malmo’s exterior benefits from simple, practical design and the exceptional use of materials and finishes – giving the development a thoroughly contemporary look. Whilst the apartments are arranged in a u-shape, giving a charming and intimate ‘community feel’ to Malmo.

Malmo’s spacious three-bedroom apartments feature high-specification fittings throughout, as well as the option of upgrade packages for those looking for that extra special touch. Malmo’s three-bedroom properties are priced from £188,995. To view first-hand Malmo’s spacious and dynamic new properties, visit the stunning on-site showhome.

For further information please call the sales office, which is open daily Open 7 days, Friday - Wednesday 10am - 5pm and Thursday 12pm - 7pm, on 0131 552 1653 or visit the website at www.bellway.co.uk

Prices at Malmo start at £149,995 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Coming Your Way Soon?

2008-01-25T09:31:00.001Z

House builders may learn a thing or two from TV’s ‘Desperate Housewives’ as they contemplate the billions of bricks now needed to meet government new homes targets

With an estimated 33 billion bricks1 needed to meet the Government’s stated targets of building 3 million new UK homes by 2016, more UK house builders will have to adopt faster and smarter construction methods.

So says international building materials manufacturer, James Hardie, whose distinctive ‘clapperboard’ style houses are well-known from the hit TV show, Desperate Housewives, and frequently seen in residential areas in many parts of the world.

“For hundreds of years the exterior walls of Britain’s houses have been built the same old way – always from brick and occasionally partly clad with timber facades,” explained Pierre Castien, European Sales Manager of James Hardie. “This takes considerable time and cost and is not the most environmentally friendly approach. Nowadays, there are more practical and attractive alternatives available for exterior walls such as our fibre-cement cladding products, offering every opportunity for house developers and builders to reduce the growing time and resource pressures they are facing.”

He added, “In the UK we are already experiencing growing demand for our products. For example, Taylor Wimpey most recently completed a new development in Essex and in the historic village of Hawkhurst in the Kent, HardiePlank has been used in a recent property development, in keeping with the traditional village setting.”

HardiePlank fibre-cement products are a technologically advanced alternative to traditional cladding materials. Compared to timber, they are far more durable and do not need additional treatment to protect them after installation. The panels are available in a range of colours and textures, and can be used in a variety of innovative applications, offering increased flexibility to design. No specialist machinery or energy hungry tools are required during installation.

1Building Magazine, November 2007

Cambodia: Asia's Property Investment Tiger

2008-01-15T19:53:00.001Z

Tiger is a word that is used a lot when talking about emerging markets - especially Asian ones. But when I use tiger to describe Cambodia it also has an additional meaning to the norm, in that Cambodia is primed and ready to pounce. Most of you interested in investing in a Cambodian property may already know that foreigners can't buy property freehold there because of government restrictions – and that apart from that fact, Cambodia is one of Asia's best property investment markets.

So you will be glad to know that the government is currently coming under increasing pressure to abolish the restrictions on foreign ownership, and the possibility of buying freehold in Cambodia may be just around the corner. Current law leaves potential foreign investors with two options, leasehold of up to 99 years, or forming a company, and taking on Cambodian nationals as partners sharing 49% of the company -- the foreigner has the controlling 51% share.

David Stanley Redfern Ltd has some excellent properties in one of Cambodia's strongest areas: the French Riverside Quarter of Pnomh Penh: left over from the French colonial era, the aptly named French Colonial Apartments. The properties are bought on a 99 year leasehold and cost from £29,151 for a one bedroom and from £48, 100 for a 2 bedroom. In the contract is a clause that allows buyers to buy their property freehold for $1 should the law change to allow it. Their location is one of the prime areas of Cambodian real estate, making their low price a real bargain.

The properties are completely refurbished in what I would call a modernist style with an oriental twist, (or is it an oriental style with a modernist twist? See accompanying pictures and decide for yourself) and what I would also call absolutely stunning. Perhaps most attractive about the properties is that they come with a 10% guaranteed rental yield for the first two years. But because of Cambodia's recent popularity with tourists, and the shedding of its skin as a destination for back-packers, to attract more of the middle-high end of the tourism market, with more disposable income, earning a 10% yield after 2 years shouldn't be all that difficult. Capital appreciation on the properties is conservatively estimated at 20% - 25%.

Also on the plus side is the fact that Cambodia's rental laws are pro-landlord, and there is no income tax on rental income, other than the tenant withholding 14% of the land-lords rent is what is unsurprisingly called a withholding tax. Also on the plus side are the low-moderate total transaction costs of 3.9% - 6.5%. Call David Stanley Redfern Ltd today for a free no-obligation chat with the experts on all aspects of overseas property investment.

For more information on Cambodian investment property visit: http://www.davidstanleyredfern.com/investment-property/cambodia/

New Service Launched To Assist Homeowners Facing Unmanageable Debt

2008-01-15T10:16:00.001Z

Thousands of families in the UK are planning to sell-up this year because they fear a housing price crash.

National Homebuyers, the UK’s largest home purchase company, says just under half those seeking its services (49%) are expecting the value of their homes to plummet in 2008.

The shocking statistic comes as National Homebuyers (www.nationalhomebuyers.co.uk) launches its new £250 million Mortgage Rescue Scheme for struggling homeowners.

“There has been a sea change in the property market in the last six months,” said Julian King of National Homebuyers.

“Many homeowners are not able to meet their mortgage payments and are desperate for a solution.”

He adds: “There is talk of interest rate cuts on the horizon. But home owners can’t rely on the Bank of England’s policy makers to save them. Any rate cuts will be too little and too late for some of the UK’s most pressurised homeowners.”

People struggling to maintain mortgage payments face further problems from other quarters: Over 45,000 repossessions are expected during 2008 and many of the 1.4 million homeowners whose fixed-rate mortgages revert to base rates during the next three months, will find difficulty sourcing an affordable alternative.

Debt-laden homeowners also face a triple-whammy from credit lenders tightening controls on borrowing. With higher interest rates, less money being lent and the spectre of negative equity, an increasing number of homeowners will choose 2008 as the year to jump off the property ladder.

National Homebuyers is investing £250 million to assist homeowners struggling to meet their mortgage commitments.

“This year we’re on a mission to help people sell the home they can’t afford more easily and efficiently than ever before. We’re 100% focused on removing as much stress from the process for them as possible,” adds Mr. King.

“What must be avoided is people losing their homes because they cannot meet repayments. This increases the likelihood of families becoming homeless or even being broken up because of debt.”

National Homebuyers is positioning itself as the company which can help home owners who can’t afford to wait and see.

“National Homebuyers is the best placed company to help families adversely affected by debt,” says Mr. King. “We are well funded and can guarantee to purchase.”

“We can act fast and help people out of the burden of debt by releasing equity in their homes before that equity diminishes.”

Ancient Custom House On The Tuscany/Lazio Border

2008-01-13T23:17:00.000Z

This ancient customs house dating back several hundred years, bordering a centuries old forest was originally the retreat of an American couple, who completely restored the property in 2004 to its former glory. It now comes to the market complete with a separate artist’s studio and is ideally placed being only 45 minutes from the Mediterranean Sea.

Trinidad Passerini Managing Director of Precious Villas says, “La Dogana is located outside the town of Farnese in the Lazio region, just an hour and half from Rome. This is an area that has yet to be truly discovered and its development in terms of market and infrastructures are still emerging. It is also a part of Italy that rivals the beauty of Tuscany and Chianti, but, still in its infancy, in terms of the world property stage, it offers property investors a tempting alternative in terms of cost compared to the more established regions of Italy.”

La Dogana is set within 25 acres of land, offering complete privacy from its beautiful green valley location yet affording spectacular views of the mountains to the west. The building complex is made up of a main house, guest house, multiple outbuildings including an office and a swimming pool measuring some 80 feet in length. It boasts wonderful garden like grounds playing host to mature walnut trees, fig trees, lawns, pastures, separate paddocks for horse enthusiasts and is further complemented by the adjoining national forest. The principle house offers four bedrooms and is made from local stone with depths of up to three feet in some areas. As one would expect with a property of this character, the current owners have ensured that it has retained its terracotta floors, traditional beams, open fire places and traditional tiles yet offering practical living with new plumbing, heating and electricity.

The guest house was added on 2003 using the same local stone ensuring that it blends in seamlessly with the original building. This has now been converted into an artist’s studio; however this could easily be converted back to its original purpose and offers a sitting room, kitchenette, shower room, guest bath, bedroom and also a separate laundry room.

La Dogana is offered for sale at £1.6 million.

www.preciousvillas.com
sales@preciousvillas.com
0870 899 8023

Learn To Earn From Property Investment

2008-01-12T12:09:00.000Z

Potential and existing landlords are being invited to get free expert guidance on how property investment can help secure their financial future at free workshops held in Exeter and Swindon this month.

The workshops, which are being held on Tuesday 15th January 2008 at Washington Suite, Langstone Cliff Hotel, Mount Pleasant Road, Dawlish Warren, Devon, EX7 0NA and Wednesday 16th January 2008 at The Wilton Suite, De Vere Hotel Swindon, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 7DW are being hosted by The Money Centre, one of the UK’s largest independent buy-to-let mortgage brokers.

Presented by successful portfolio landlords from The Money Centre, the workshops will provide guidance on the economy, why property is ‘win, win’ and how to minimise risks and maximise returns. From the most seasoned of investors to those just curious on how to get started in the buy-to-let business, the workshops will help every attendee make informed decisions about the property market.

Lynsey Sweales, marketing and PR director for The Money Centre comments:
“Our workshops attract between two and three hundred people. Anyone who comes along can be assured they will be receiving guidance from people who have been there and done it themselves! With house prices predicted to cool, and with lenders becoming more wary in the wake of the ‘credit crunch’, now is a great time to receive expert guidance and meet like-minded individuals in one room.”

Exeter is an historic cathedral and university city. It is also the county town of Devon and is a business, legal, retail, tourist and commercial centre for the region. With a population of 111,000, it’s the perfect investment opportunity for landlords.*

Swindon, soon to become a university town and possibly a city in the near future is currently undergoing numerous large developments of new houses and apartments. Easy access to London, Cheltenham, Oxford, Bristol and Wales either by road or rail makes Swindon a very convenient location.**

Nationwide, demand for rental property has hit a five and a half year high due to constantly increasing immigration, more people living alone and, of course, the weakening of the housing market.*** The past decade has seen phenomenal increases in property prices across the whole of the UK, making buy-to-let an attractive investment option. Buy-to-let lending in the UK now accounts for 12% of all mortgage advances, compared with just 3% five years ago.****

Lynsey concludes: “The buy-to-let market is no longer for just the wealthy and middle-aged. Nowadays, not only are 40 per cent of landlords under 35, but more than half own one or two properties for rent and there are as many female landlords as there are men. Buy-to-let is seen as an alternative to traditional forms of investment. For example, people who have had their confidence in pensions shaken are investing in property, which they see as offering greater returns and more control.”

Event: Free buy-to-let workshop – ‘Making a success of property investment’.

Date: Tuesday 15th January and Wednesday 16th January 2008.

Time: 10:30am registration for 11:00am start (lunch provided).

Venue: Washington Suite, Langstone Cliff Hotel, Mount Pleasant Road, Dawlish Warren, Devon, EX7 0NA.
The Wilton Suite, De Vere Hotel Swindon, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 7DW.

To book: Call The Money Centre’s workshop team on 01603 489125 or email enquiries@themoneycentre.net

The Money Centre also publishes a free buy-to-let guide on successful investment – available by calling 0800 374611.

Chesterton’s House Price Poll Of Polls

2008-01-10T12:51:00.000Z

House Price polls were at variance this month, due to the variety of sources they draw information from. In addition, although Rightmove and Home.co.uk are both based on asking prices, their monthly inflation rates show house prices moving in opposite directions. Similarly, some indices based on sale prices such as the Land Registry, are still showing positive numbers, while data from Nationwide showed negative movements its December release. Chesterton’s Poll of Polls analyses all these indices, taking into account their individual strengths and weaknesses, to determine the true underlying house price movements. We find overall, the indices point to a slowing in the market, with a rise in average house prices of just +0.1% in December and +8.6% on an annual basis.

Index | Month which report refers to | Monthly inflation
Halifax | December | +1.3%
Nationwide | December | -0.5%
Land Registry (Calnea Analytics) | November | +0.6%
Department of Communities and Local Government | October | +0.1%
Financial Times (Acadametrics) | November| +0.5%
Home.co.uk (Calnea Analytics) | December | +1.1%
Rightmove.co.uk | December | -3.2%

Douglas McWilliams, Chief Executive of cebr comments:

“The Chesterton Poll of Polls shows that house prices now have flattened. The economic news confirms that the UK economy will, at best, slowdown in 2008 even if it avoids a recession. Most economic commentators (including me) think that house prices will fall in 2008. Evidence suggests 2008 will be the worst year for house prices since 1995 when house prices fell by 1.7%.

“What might make matters worse are the Home Information Packs which the government introduced for all houses and flats on 14 December. Before then there had been a surge of properties put on the market but since then the number has dried up. Home Information Packs are at best an unnecessary tax on home sellers but their badly timed introduction could cause an additional weakening of confidence”

Robert Bartlett, Chesterton CEO, comments:

“The general discord in the UK economy has seen the housing market soften in last few months of 2007, although key London property continues to witness strong demand with substantial prices still being realised. The ¼ point reduction in interest rates by the Bank of England in December has had little effect on consumer confidence and that, coupled with the HIPS debacle, has lead to a dramatic reduction in good quality stock being available.

“For 2008 we believe that property prices will remain flat to negative 2% through to Spring, but with a reduced number of transactions as a result of a deepening divide between buyer /vendor expectation. However, further reductions in interest rates should help to shore up confidence as the year progresses. Should base rates reduce to 5% by the early summer, then we would expect some modest growth to reenter the market. London prices would likely show growth of up to 2-3% for the year, with higher growth rates likely in Central London and other core London areas where strong demand and low stock availability persists. The early part of 2008 could be a great opportunity for those looking for bargains.”

Chesterton’s House Price Poll of Polls is produced by the centre for economics and business research (cebr) on behalf of Chesterton Global.

Chesterton was founded in 1805, and has grown to become an international estate agency, best known as Chesterton Global.

cebr is an independent economics and business research consultancy established in 1993 providing forecasts and advice to City institutions, government departments, local authorities and numerous blue chip companies throughout Europe. The contributors to this report are economists Sarah Bloomfield, Jonathan Said and John Ward.

For more information or to arrange an interview with Robert Bartlett, CEO, Chesterton, please contact Richard Finnila, Blueice Communications
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7937 7537
Email: rfinnila@blueicecom.com

Property Investors Go To Montenegro

2008-01-03T23:06:00.000Z

Montenegro is the latest investment focal point that overseas property investment specialists David Stanley Redfern Ltd have added to their extensive list of worldwide properties. Priced from £50,220 - £75,860, their contemporary off-plan 1-2 bedroom apartments in the village of Zambelici, Lustica and more traditional 3-4 bedroom lakeside log cabins overlooking Slano Lake in Niksic are simply stunning.

Since gaining independent status last year, Montenegro has seen a property boom that has lead to its desirable real estate pricing increase by as much as 20% on average over the past 2 years.

With Podgorica, the capital city producing rental yields of anything up to 24% and capital gains tax of around 15%, this Adriatic coastal region and its 6% buying costs simply demands to be investigated. If low cost living combined with a tranquil off-plan seaside property with an accommodating terrace looking out onto expanse views near the revered Mirista beach, just 15 minutes away from the airport sounds like the right property for you, read on. If a beautiful tailor-made log cabin with convenient family facilities, restaurants and easy pool access just 10 minutes away from Montenegro’s second largest city sounds good, again, read on.

Between the 2 featured properties on David Stanley Redferns site, a host of enticing attributes are listed: Water, electricity, telephone, air conditioning/heating, fitted bathroom (electric water heater, WC, wash basin, shower, fully tiled walls), tiled floors, communal swimming pool, fitted kitchen (with installation of white goods if required), optional furnishing packages at discounted prices, optional property rental management, double glazing, parking space, yard, dining room, utility room, study, gardens, full insulation, lounge and fireplace. These affordable and fully accommodating properties amidst an emerging property market are hard to beat for quality, value and return. Contact David Stanley Redfern Ltd for a non-obligatory chat about all the different specifications of these Montenegro properties, as well as any other queries you might have.

Find out more at http://www.davidstanleyredfern.com/investment-property/montenegro/

Redrow Goes The Extra 'Myle' For Buyers

2008-01-02T20:16:00.000Z

Buying together for the first time proved problem free for Paul Huk and Nicki Morgan who found their ideal home at The Myle in Colchester, Essex.

Agreeing on an area, a price or the same property are just a few of the problems modern couples can face when buying a house together for the first time, but for Paul Huk and Nicki Morgan, it was plain sailing.

Moving less than a mile away from their previous properties, the couple fell in love at first sight with their new four-bedroom, three-storey ‘Neale 3’ townhouse at The Myle, which comes with an en-suite off the master bedroom, separate dining room, downstairs cloak room and carport.

“We love our new home. I didn’t get further into the house than the hallway before I knew it was the one for us; it really grabbed us how comfortable it felt. It really clicked,” says Paul.

“It’s such an improvement on our old houses, especially in terms of size. Originally we were looking for a three-bedroom terrace; this is a more significant move up the property ladder than we had intended to make, but financially, it wasn’t a big leap at all.

“And, as a new build house it has saved us extra money that we would have needed for renovations and maintenance. Pound for pound it has beaten all of the other, older properties we looked at,” he added.

Paul and Nicki, both 29, particularly like the extra space a third floor provides and the unique layout of the house. Accommodating two guest rooms and a games room, they are enjoying the versatility and extra space provided by an extra floor, something that would benefit an array of buyers in today’s space-limited property market.

Paul said: “The house is great, from start to finish. We especially like having the lounge on the first floor and the extra floor is an amazing addition, the stairs certainly keep you healthy too! We’re using two of the bedrooms on the third floor as a guest room and a games room, where I can spend hours playing on my consoles. The area is lovely too; the development isn’t far from the main road but is also close to green countryside. It really is perfect.”

Concerned about the implications of having to sell their old properties, Paul got peace of mind by taking advantage of Redrow’s part exchange programme.

“Part exchange made the sale of my old house so fast and easy. It was bliss taking viewings of my old house without having to worry myself sick about making a sale,” said Paul.

Beryl Williams, area sales manager for Redrow Homes (Eastern), says: “Part exchange is ideal for buyers who want to move quickly without having to worry about selling their current house. They won’t be caught in a chain and customers don’t have the stress of trying to co-ordinate the sale and purchase. There is also no risk of their buyer changing their mind at a crucial moment and delaying the whole process, so, free of all this worry, our customers can sit back and enjoy their move.”

The Myle features a series of four-bedroom houses, many of which feature a garage or carport, as well as stylish two-bedroom houses and one and two-bedroom apartments. Prices currently start at £139,995 for a one-bedroom apartment and from £164,995 for a two-bedroom apartment, while a four-bedroom mid-terrace Neale is available from £255,995.

Part-exchange will be considered on selected houses, while those purchasing an apartment may be able to benefit from £500 per month towards their mortgage for up to two years, or 5% deposit and stamp duty paid plus £500 towards legal fees.

The location of The Myle is good for commuters as the development has easy access to the A12, which leads directly to London in around an hour-and-a-half or Stansted airport in around 45 minutes. Rail links from nearby Colchester North Station provide access to Ipswich in less than 20 minutes and to London Liverpool Street in about an hour. The development is also situated on a main bus route.

To find out about life at The Myle, view the fully furnished show home on Mill Road, Colchester, open daily from 10am to 5.30pm. Alternatively, call the Redrow sales consultant on 0845 676 0501 or log on to www.redrow.co.uk/developments/view/101.

For general information about Redrow and its properties visit www.redrow.co.uk.

A Room With A View In Merthyr Tydfil

2007-12-31T12:24:00.000Z

If it’s sensational view you’re after from your brand new home then Gelli Dawel in Merthyr Tydfil takes some beating.

Perched high, on the edge of the town, this attractive development looks out across the surrounding countryside for miles around. It’s an outlook that will be framed by the windows of many of the properties currently for sale.

Redrow’s stunning development is also close to some other breathtaking scenery, including the Brecon Beacons and the Black Mountains, providing endless outdoor activities.

The natural beauty of the outdoors is matched by the stylish design and practical interiors of Redrow’s choice of properties at Gelli Dawel, which currently includes one-bedroom apartments from £119,995, three-bedroom terraced homes from £172,950 and four-bedroom terraced and detached houses from £186,995 to £209,995.

Debby Pavitt, sales manager for Redrow Homes (South Wales), says:
“Many of the available properties are three-storey homes in elevated positions, which creates some of the best opportunities to enjoy the surrounding views.

“The versatility of their three-storey layout also makes them a great choice for people looking for something different from their new home.

“Homes like the Neale, for example, have their lounge and master bedroom with en-suite on the first floor, with three further bedrooms and a family bathroom above. This type of layout is ideal for a family with older children who can make the top floor their own; or for couples who don’t need the extra bedrooms and can turn those upper rooms into a home office, a gym, TV room – or whatever takes their fancy.

“We’ve even got some great money saving incentives for those looking for a new home that will be ready to move into before the end of the year.”

Surrounded by so much natural beauty it’s easy to forget that Cardiff is within easy reach of Merthyr Tydfil, and that the town has many facilities close at hand – from high street shops and bustling markets to doctors, dentists, churches and a good choice of Welsh and English speaking schools. A new primary school is under construction adjacent to Redrow’s development.

The town itself has undergone a great deal of regeneration and there are a number of shopping outlets nearby, such as the Cyfarthfa Retail Park, boasting good quality high street names.

The A465 Heads of the Valley road is only a mile away, while the A470 is within half a mile and gives direct access to the M4 and Cardiff. The town’s railway station also offers direct services to Cardiff in just under an hour.

To enjoy the spectacular views from Gelli Dawel and take a look at the fully furnished show homes to see what’s inside too, visit the development between 10am and 5.30pm daily, log on to www.redrow.co.uk/developments/view/129 or call 0845 676 0317.

Gelli Dawel also includes a selection of Redrow’s affordable Debut homes for first time buyers. Prices start from just £76,725 for a one-bedroom property, with the opportunity to defer 10% of this initial purchase price as an interest-free fixed sum for up to 10 years. There’s also a single monthly service charge to cover external maintenance, buildings insurance and all gas, water and electricity bills.

For further general information about Redrow and its properties, go online at www.redrow.co.uk or to find out more about Debut log on to www.debutbyredrow.co.uk.

Enjoy Stylish Living In Leafy Edgbaston

2007-12-30T12:22:00.000Z

Redrow Homes is giving Birmingham homebuyers the chance to have it all with its range of stylish and exclusive apartments at Hemisphere.

The development in Edgbaston offers a desirable combination of city living and suburban bliss.

Sales director for Redrow Homes (Midlands) Pauline Turnbull said:
“Hemisphere is now an established destination for buyers who want the best from their new home.

“It offers the perfect balance between city living and the quiet life. The leafy surroundings of Edgbaston and the neighbouring Cannon Hill Park provide a fantastic natural environment, while the rush of city centre life is less than half a mile away.”

Hemisphere sits opposite the Warwickshire Cricket Club, making it perfect for sports lovers.

It also backs onto the famous 69-acre Cannon Hill Park with its beautiful conservation areas, woodland, meadows and lakes, ideal for those who want to be at home with nature. The park has been awarded Green Flag status and aside the scenery, there’s plenty to keep activity lovers occupied, from riverside cycle paths, to tennis courts, bowling and putting greens, as well as boating facilities.

Also on Hemisphere’s doorstep is the Midlands Arts Centre, one of the country’s leading venues, with three performance spaces, including an outdoor arena, covering all art forms, a cinema, six galleries and exhibition spaces.

And just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, Hemisphere will also benefit from being part of the £100 million, nine-acre mixed-use scheme at Edgbaston Mill, which is set to transform the area, making it one of the hottest new addresses in Birmingham.

The flagship scheme by Calthorpe Estates will include restaurants, hotel and leisure space as well as retail and commercial areas and two public squares, giving Redrow’s buyers access to a premium lifestyle.

It is not just the fantastic location that is attracting home hunters, Hemisphere is also appealing to those who want a stress-free lifestyle, with a 24-hour concierge service, and the fact that external maintenance and communal grounds are all taken care of.

The concierge is responsible for the general upkeep of the building and is always on hand to help out, with services, such as taking delivery of parcels and helping residents with meter readings.

And for extra peace of mind there are secure electronic entry systems for the main foyer and an underground car park, with automatic lighting, which can only be accessed with an electronic fob.

An exclusive selection of penthouses are currently on offer at Hemisphere taking luxury living to a new level. With large spacious open plan living areas they are ideal for entertaining at home.

The penthouses open out onto roof terraces, perfect for house parties and summer barbecues and offer fantastic views over Cannon Hill Park or the county cricket ground.

The wide range of apartments also available at Hemisphere typically offer a flexible open-plan living area, allowing homeowners to be really creative with the way they use their space, as well as generous bedrooms, some with en-suite facilities and some apartments also offer balconies with views over Edgbaston, perfect for sitting out and watching the world go by.

Current prices at Hemisphere start at £149,950 for a one-bedroom apartment, while two-bedroom apartments are available from £189,950.

To discover the potential of Hemisphere, visit the marketing suite and new fully furnished show apartment, off Edgbaston Road, open between 10am and 5:30pm daily, or call 0845 676 0515. Would-be buyers can also visit www.hemisphere.redrow.co.uk for more information about the scheme, as well as floor plans and availability.

General information about Redrow and its properties can be found at www.redrow.co.uk.

Canada: Probably The Best Skiing In The World...

2007-12-20T12:08:00.000Z

Canada: probably the best skiing in the world…

…now affordably accessible as well

Naturally at this time of the year the travel sections of magazines and newspapers are filled with snow reports and reviews of ski resorts; the editors of these publications are likely aware of the fact that there has again been a year-on-year growth of 3.4% in the winter sports travel market in 2007 with in excess of 1.3 million people in the UK now regularly taking winter sports holidays.

What all this means is that there is keen consumer interest in winter sport so it needs to fill column inches - and because the independent travel market makes up a whopping 17% share of the winter sports market, it’s entirely understandable that there has been a strong media push to promote cheap flights to new ski resorts in eastern European destinations such as Romania and Bulgaria.

This media promotion may be making some headway as we seek more affordable destinations for our winter sporting holidays, but anyone serious about their skiing and winter sports action knows that the best ski resorts in the world are still found in Canada…

After all, where else does the ski season begin as early as November?

Where else do you get reports of a forty-seven inch base of snow already having fallen by the first week of December?

Where else has been dubbed ‘the mother of all skiing destinations’ by a special winter travel report in The Boston Herald this year?

Where else indeed but Canada - and to be specific, Quebec?

Now if you’re thinking that Canada is hardly affordably accessible for the majority of us, whilst you may have been right just a few years ago, the prospect of affording to ski in Canada has actually become more than possible thanks to low cost airlines from the UK and Ireland opening up new routes.

For example, just this year Zoom Airlines have massively expanded their destination base and flight frequency to Canada. They now fly from the UK and Ireland to locations across British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec with their marketing manager commenting that their emphasis continues to be on providing “greater frequency and flexibility on Canadian winter ski flights…at prices equivalent to what you would pay for a European ski holiday.”

In terms of where to ski in Canada, according to John Prior who’s the managing director of Undiscovered Properties which promotes the delights of some of the most exclusive and elegant residential properties around the world: “whilst Canada is home to the likes of world famous and luxurious resorts such as Whistler in British Columbia, (which will host the Alpine events for the 2010 Winter Olympics and which is regularly in the top ten ski resorts in the world according to all the major ski industry publications), it is also home to a handful of emerging and affordable gems which are gaining significant ground such as Mont Tremblant in Quebec.”

And John Prior isn’t the only one to be focused on Mont Tremblant. The New York Times recently rated Mont Tremblant ‘one of the most accessible, affordable and fantastically diverse winter sports resorts’ in a special ski resort review which covered the whole of North America, and Ski Canada Magazine regularly rates the resort as one of the best ski towns in the country.

Located in an untouched frontier in Quebec in Canada and set deep in the heart of the most beautiful countryside, Mont Tremblant is the ski capital of eastern Canada. Despite the seeming secrecy and intimacy of its location it is just a ninety minute drive away from the sophistication of cosmopolitan Montreal which has a large international airport connected by regular and direct flights to over 120 destinations in the UK, America and Europe.

Whilst currently being promoted internationally for its skiing, the resort of Mont Tremblant is actually famous locally for its year round appeal. It has incredible hiking and biking trails, stunning lakes for sailing, kayaking, water skiing and fishing, and now the brand new Eagles Ridge residential project is bringing a Graham Cooke signature golf course to Mont Tremblant as well as an equestrian centre, gymnasium, swimming pools and a boat club. However, it is certainly the skiing and winter sports such as ice skating, snow boarding and dog sledging for which the resort is fast gaining international recognition.

As stated, the New York Times are promoting Mont Tremblant and with the development of the master planned, luxurious Eagles Ridge project coming on apace, interest in this dramatically stunning corner of Canada is intensifying and annual visitor numbers are increasing.

Eagles Ridge, Tremblant Lakes is Eastern Canada’s most prestigious development with large spacious traditional log and frame build homes surrounding one of the 5 freshwater lakes and all set in minimum 1.5 acre plots and with stunning views over 1800 acres. The development is only 15 minutes from the Mt. Tremblant, so easily accessible through the National Park to the south side of the mountain and where all the action is to be found.

Owning a prestige property lodge home at Eagles Ridge has all the benefits of being close to the skiing, yet away from the bustle to relax in luxury homes with on venue amenities of a golf club, boutique hotel, sailing club and equestrian, grocery store and much more, all designed to capitalise on the true 4 seasons of this part of Canada, which is something clients are increasingly looking for, and if the performance of the last project by the developer are anything to go by, client owners have seen capital appreciation of twice the national rate which is already a healthy +7-10% per annum. So a great destination in terms of 4 seasons lifestyle living, sound investment and return in the increasingly popular Canada

The development offers uniquely styled 3, 4, 5 and 6 bedroom lodges and the properties start from GBP 280,000 / CAD 573,000 / EUR 392,000.

For more information contact Undiscovered Properties on 0870 7347968, email contact@undiscoveredproperties.com or visit www.undiscoveredproperties.com.

Eco-Planning Measures Are A Fair Compromise, Says Industry

2007-12-18T13:16:00.000Z

The BPF yesterday backed an announcement from housing minister, Yvette Cooper, to modernise the planning system to encourage greener developments.

The Planning Policy Statement on Climate Change calls upon authorities and developers to consider a sweet of renewable energy measures, ranging from on-site technologies, such as solar panels, to community heating and power stations. It follows intense debate over the Merton rule which required a specific percentage of a development's energy needs to be supplied through on-site renewable sources.

The BPF hopes that the government's new measures will reflect the realities of the development industry, providing more scope for innovation and room for green targets to be met in a more efficient and cost-effective way, whether that is on-site or off-site sources.

The BPF also supports the setting of a timetable to make all new commercial development carbon-neutral but emphasises this must be realistic and will demand intensive work to overcome the many technical and cost barriers that currently exist.

Liz Peace, chief executive of the BPF, said: "Industry support for the government's green targets will be integral to their success. The property industry has always been fully behind green measures to encourage sustainable development and the use of renewable energy. We welcome today's announcement which represents a compromise between those who want total freedom to meet energy needs in the most efficient way and those who believe developers must be tied to a specific form of renewables.

"The key factor to successful green development is flexibility. It is still very early days and our technology is evolving fast. Therefore, it is essential that developers are allowed to use their professional judgement to work out the best energy solution for each site. This new policy statement represents a step in the right direction."

UK First Time Buyers Opt For A Far-Flung First Rung

2007-12-17T13:27:00.000Z

The average house price in the UK according to Land Registry Figures from July to September 2007 is £230,474 GBP, a 9% rise on last year. Turn to Greater London and this figure shoots up to £377,807 GBP, a 14.1% rise on 2006. Hardly surprising then that 84% of the 18 – 24 year olds surveyed by National Savings & Investments this year said they believed buying a property abroad was a more viable option than buying in Britain. And with prices from as little as £30,000 GBP in Bulgaria, this is a very lucrative and accessible property ladder to consider.

Adam Godwin, Marketing Director of Dream Homes WorldWide comments, “Young people in the UK are taking a very pragmatic approach to the property market and many realize that a first time buy abroad could be the key to getting onto the ladder in the UK. Rental income from an overseas asset could fund the monthly rent in the UK whilst the capital appreciation from a few years of ownership in a buoyant emerging market could fund that all important deposit for a first UK home.”

Adam continues, “We market a portfolio of property across the world in different price ranges, but it’s clear that our low entry level products attract younger investors. Take July Morning Seaside Resort in Kavarna on Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast as an example. Prices here start from just £30,100 GBP for a studio apartment and purchasers only have to put down 20% on signing of contract, £6,020, and then have until September 2009 to save for the next 20% installment and the third and final payments are not due until 2010. Many young people with a decent full time job and an aptitude for saving would be refused a UK mortgage but most would be able to meet these favourable payment criteria.”

On the market for young BARBies (Buying Abroad Renting in Britain)…

July Morning Seaside Resort, Kavarna – a luxury low-rise development in a privileged frontline beach plot on Bulgaria’s popular Black Sea Coast. The studios, one and two bedroom apartments, and two bedroom duplexes have fabulous views of the sea and all are delivered fully furnished and therefore ready for immediate occupancy. July Morning Seaside Resort has a wide range of facilities including three swimming pools, Spa, fitness centre, on-site driving range, internet café and pool bar. Prices from £30,100 GBP for a studio apartment with 20% due on contract (just £6,020 now), 20% due at roof stage (by September 2009), 50% when construction complete (by January 2010) and 10% on signing deeds (by June 2010). An alternative payment plan is available to include a 3% discount off purchase price.

River Park, Kavarna – a compact development of just 62 units in a coveted spot on Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast. On the banks of a river, within 100 metres of sandy beaches, minutes of PGA-standard 18-hole golf and at the heart of Kavarna’s yacht marina, the location for River Park could not be bettered. The studios, one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses with pleasant sea views will be delivered fully furnished for immediate occupancy expected for December 2009. Imaginative facilities include a quirky rooftop putting green for perfecting the short game as well as a large outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, Spa and a sky bar with wonderful views of the marina. Prices from £37,700 GBP for a studio apartment with 40% due on contract (£15,080), 20% due at foundations, 20% when the roof is ready and 20% on signing deeds (by December 2009). Alternative payment plans are available to include a 5% and 8% discounts off purchase price.

Maria Antoaneta Residence, Bansko – a stylish development of 184 studio, one and two bedroom apartments in the best new ski resort in Eastern Europe. Fully furnished and with open fireplaces as standard, the homes all have views to the impressive Pirin mountains as well as access to a range of on-site facilities. Residents can enjoy an indoor heated swimming pool, gymnasium, Spa with massage room and sauna, bar and restaurant and convenience store. In addition the resort will offer a laundry service, reception, tourist information, ski wardrobes, 24-hour security and underground parking. Prices from £19,600 GBP for a studio apartment with a choice of payment plans including only 20% due on contract (only £3,920 required) and a series of installments up until completion scheduled for December 2009.

Dream Homes Worldwide can be contacted on UK freephone 08000 193 847 or Irish freephone 1800 805 006 or in Spain telephone 00 34 952 908 803 email enquiry@dreamhomesww.com or view www.dreamhomesww.com

Market Predictions From Mayfair-Based Profile Europe (UK) Ltd

2007-12-16T12:24:00.000Z

The fragmented overseas property markets can seem a little bewildering to the ‘new overseas property investor’ (NOPI) and with so many markets to choose from and claims and counter claims of rich new emerging markets, Mayfair based Martin Bowen, UK Sales Director for Profile Europe (UK) Ltd gives his top three tips for the overseas property market in the New Year.

Martin says, “Stepping onto the overseas property market in search of financial security has become one of the biggest forms of investment in the new millennium and it is an investment that is open to everyone. Not so many years ago this form of investment would have been reserved for the financially privileged and was mainly greeted with a shrug of the shoulders from the vast majority of the British public, who lacked the funds, know how and perhaps confidence to embrace this ever changing market. How times have changed. Now we are seeing a large cross section of people actively involved in the overseas markets; from recent school leavers, keen to get into bricks and mortar overseas, (due to the financially unaffordable UK market) to retirees who are still looking to safeguard against their future in an increasingly expensive United Kingdom.”

“Whether an experienced investor or a NOPI, there literally is a market for everyone; depending upon initial investment stakes and the envisaged time frame of the investment. Recent years have seen huge investment into Eastern Europe with country after country coming to the party and claiming to be bigger and better than the last one. Whilst many of these claims were true, the sad truth is that despite some early gains in most of these countries and further claims of more price hikes to come, the financial gains have been ‘predictably’ lower than expected and investors have had trouble in realising financial gains because of over subscribed property markets. It is therefore essential that NOPI’s and those that have invested overseas before, talk to reputable companies that have years of experience in the overseas property markets and a large portfolio of properties to suit individuals needs.

My advice for those looking to step onto the overseas property market in the New Year is as follows; Portugal has come into its own, especially in light of the recent bad press and overdevelopment that Spain has endured. This is not to say, that Spain is not a good investment, but rather that Portugal is flavour of the month and in my opinion is on the crest of a wave which will see regions increase dramatically over the next five years. Portugal is a safe bet and although certain areas can prove prohibitive due to price, certain regions are ideal for first time buyers abroad. Dubai is another good bet, especially with building work continuing at such a pace and the population now the fastest growing in the world. Investors into this market will see tremendous capital growth towards the end of this decade and can be rest assured that the rental market in a city, that expects upwards of 15 million tourists each year, will be one of the most profitable ever. Lastly I predict that the Indian property market will start to move forward in the New Year. Prices are currently some of the lowest we have ever seen and can compete even with Eastern European markets. Infrastructure and a financial awareness is now the new driving force and I anticipate that this market will grow significantly over the next 10 years.”Profile Europe (UK) Ltd now market in Dubai, France, Cape Verde, Morocco, Brazil, Spain, Portugal and India and have properties starting from just £17,500.

New Property Investment Web Service

2007-12-15T12:31:00.000Z

Azure Investment Property, formerly known as Cyprus for Investors and a well established UK specialist in Cypriot property sales, is expanding, re-branding and launching a brand new website, www.azureinvestmentproperty.com, to provide its clients with wider range of property investment opportunities and support services across more countries.

Whilst retaining its expertise in the Cypriot property market, Azure is expanding into emerging property “hot spots” offering good growth potential, such as Montenegro, Turkey and Morocco, providing a range of properties for business investors with existing overseas portfolios, investors looking to expand overseas or individuals simply looking to find a quality home in the sun.

The company’s new website, www.azureinvestmentproperty.com features property listings, market overviews and investment advice, plus its exclusive Members Club, providing investors with early information about new developments and investment opportunities.

Azure Investment Property’s expert team of advisors and country specialists has first hand experience of all the developments it offers, to provide client support services including advice on investment strategy and planning, specific country and location knowledge and information on such issues as tax implications and buying procedures.

Azure: +44 (0) 845 070 4327; www.azureinvestmentproperty.com

A Dream Home For Christmas

2007-12-15T12:29:00.000Z

Award-winning house-builder Bellway Homes Wales is inviting festive home-buyers to snap up a home over this Christmas period.

The Larchmont development is set among views of the enchanting Castell Coch and each home on the development has been designed for sophisticated living, equipped with a modern kitchen, complete with integrated fridge and freezer, comfortably sized living space, as well as roomy bedrooms.

Larchmont comprises of just 52 homes in total, and boasts an executive range of detached 3, 4 and 5-bedroom homes.

The semi-rural development is situated within the catchment area of the highly regarded primary and secondary schools, Bryn Deri and Radyr Comprehensive, and is also within easy access of all major transport links, situated minutes from the M4 and a short drive away from Cardiff Airport.

Debbie Mae, Bellway’s sales negotiator at Larchmont is expecting a flurry of seasonal interest in the homes:

“Larchmont is proving very popular with buyers looking for that perfect rural and urban mix. Many house-hunters are now searching for the perfect location as the festive season brings families together and home comforts to fore. People fall in love with the location here, it’s close to highly regarded schools, has every amenity you’d wish for right on the doorstep and the transportation links are pretty good too.”

Prices start from £250,000 for a 3-bedroom, and £310,000 for a 4-bed home. For more information please visit the sales office, open Thursday to Monday from 11am – 5pm, or phone 029 2084 2225 alternatively log on to www.bellway.co.uk. Christmas opening hours are from 11.30am to 4pm for the 27th, 28th and 29th of December.

Variable Rates Gain Favour As Borrowers Expect A Rate Fall

2007-12-12T21:03:00.000Z

There was a move away from fixed-rate mortgages in October, with levels of new fixed-rate loans falling to 68% from 72% in September. Fixed-rate loans have been popular throughout 2007 with levels consistently at or above 70%. But the trend towards variable rate loans may increase in coming months as the expectation of further interest rate cuts lessens the need for borrowers to lock in and guard against rate rises.

Mortgage affordability continued to deteriorate in October as interest payments consumed the highest levels of income in over 15 years. First-time buyers contributed 20.6% of their income towards mortgage interest, up from 20.4% in September and the highest level since 1991, and movers contributed 17.6%, up from 17.5% in September and the highest level since 1992. The Bank of England's rate reduction of 0.25% will provide some relief to borrowers in coming months.

Lending volumes remained strong in October totalling £33.5 billion, a 9% rise from £30.6 billion in September and £30.6 billion a year ago. The majority of these loans are likely to have been approved before the full impact of the credit crunch and the problems associated with Northern Rock took hold. Lending is expected to be more subdued in coming months as mortgage approval numbers are showing.

Home movers typically borrowed 3.02 times their income, unchanged from September, whilst first-time buyers typically borrowed 3.36 times their income, down from 3.38 in September.

Commenting on the figures, CML director general Michael Coogan said:

"October is the last month we expect lending volumes to be higher than a year ago as lenders and borrowers will behave more cautiously in an uncertain and slowing market environment. Lenders have already responded to the credit squeeze by tightening lending criteria and increasing some loan costs. And looking ahead, any uncertainty in the housing market may mean that borrowers are less willing to stretch themselves financially. However, overall, in the coming months we expect the lending figures to be driven more by supply factors rather than lower consumer demand.

"For those customers coming to the end of their fixed rate mortgage in 2008, the potential impact of higher monthly payments will be diminished by the fall in bank rate this month and other rate reductions to come early in the New Year."

Aspect Maintenance Comes To The Rescue This Christmas!

2007-12-12T12:26:00.000Z

Property maintenance company ready to support London’s homeowners in the event of an emergency

If you are planning a big family Christmas this year, then the last thing you will need is for your boiler to break down, or for your electrics to stop working. Now’s the time to make sure you have the right contact details to hand in case of an emergency.

Leading London-based property maintenance company, Aspect Maintenance (www.aspect-maintenance.co.uk), stays open 365 days per year and provides a 24-hour call out service at no cost. Rates are competitive across the whole period.

The company also operates a job management system that helps to guarantee its engineers will arrive within their allotted two-hour appointment time, which means you won’t be left around waiting for the Turkey to go cold, or huddling together around the Christmas tree to keep warm.

Aspect Maintenance operates across the domestic and commercial sectors, setting new, modern and professional standards. The company offers a fully-skilled workforce who can handle all maintenance issues, from the drains to the roof, and anything in between.

As well, as offering reactive emergency repairs, Aspect Maintenance also provides planned and estimated works, with free quotes for larger works.

William Davies, managing director of Aspect Maintenance, says: “Christmas is the time of year when we are meant to be relaxing and enjoying time with our families, so the last thing we need is a property emergency.

“If the worst does come to the worst, whether it’s the roof, drains, your electrics or your boiler – we can be there to help, and are only a phone call away.

“We endeavour to provide our clients with the highest customer service levels, and will always get to the route of the problem as quickly and as professionally as possible, whether that’s in the middle of the night, or – even – on Christmas Day!”

For further information regarding Aspect Maintenance’s competitive rates across the Christmas period, please go to www.aspect-maintenance.co.uk, or call 0800 316 5700.

Back to School? With Views Like This, Who'd Say No?

2007-12-10T22:41:00.000Z

Smiths Gore’s Berwick Office (01289 333030) are marketing Lindisfarne View, a unique former school, in a commanding position overlooking the Northumberland coast.

Of stone construction under a slate pitched roof, the property dates from 1868 and was last used as a school in around 1939. The property comprises a three bedroom house, converted from a former school, which provides flexible and spacious accommodation over two floors. A particular feature of the house is the former organ chamber, now a third bedroom with a full height stone arch echoed in an arched window giving spectacular views over rolling farmland. Mature gardens extend to the east and south of the property with ample off-road parking for a number of vehicles whilst the gardens link to an adjoining parcel of amenity woodland, the whole extending to 1½ acres.

The surrounding area has many leisure opportunities, with excellent golf courses and horse riding facilities to be found locally. Easy access is available to the Cheviots, the Northumberland coast and the renowned St Cuthbert’s Way for the walking enthusiast and there is a wealth of little teashops providing good home baking when the walking is finished. The tranquil countryside surrounding Middleton belies its turbulent past but echoes of the Border skirmishes survive in the nearby castles of Bamburgh, Chillingham and Lindisfarne.

Barbara Pentecost, selling agent at Smiths Gore’s Berwick Office (01289 333030) says:

“Lindisfarne View is situated in a beautiful and accessible part of north Northumberland, an area steeped in history.”

“The local services at Belford are supplemented by the larger market towns of Alnwick and Berwick-upon-Tweed (15 miles) which offer railway services to the regional cities of Edinburgh and Newcastle upon Tyne as well as London Kings Cross”

Lindisfarne View is marketed with a guide price of £295,000

Landmark Warns Homeowners Of Potential Flood Threat

2007-12-09T12:37:00.000Z

Monday night's Channel 4 Dispatches programme offered viewers a glimpse into a British future under water. With house builders constructing new homes on flood plains and the cost of home insurance looking to soar out of control, Landmark Information Group encourages British homeowners to find out just how vulnerable their home is from flooding.

Approximately five million people in two million homes live in flood risk areas across England and Wales. Landmark urges homebuyers to think carefully about the proximity of flood plains and tidal stretches in relation to their home and ensure they are well informed of potential risks that could affect them.

There are a number of sources of flood information in the UK, but the best way to tackle the issue is to ask your solicitor or conveyancer to get a report when you buy a home.

James Sherwood-Rogers, Managing Director of Landmark Legal & Financial, comments: “It’s essential that homebuyers are aware of the potential risk their properties are at from flooding. As we have already experienced first hand this summer, flooding can have devastating effects on families and communities. Unfortunately flooding is not an issue that is going to disappear and homeowners need to stay vigilant.”

Mary Danbhou, seven times flood victim and coordinator of the National Flood Forum took part in the live Dispatches debate last night; Late Night & Live. Mary wishes that she had purchased one of Landmark’s flooding reports before she bought her home.

Mary comments: “Had I known before buying my property that my home was at risk from flooding I would never have bought it. People should buy property with their eyes wide open and be made aware of all the environmental risks.”

Mary continues: “I do wish that I had purchased a flood report such as that available from Landmark Information Group.

Sherwood-Rogers continues: “Our Homecheck Professional Flood Report is the UK’s most comprehensive report of its kind and will help reassure homeowners and buyers. It will provide them with peace of mind and highlight the potential dangers in order to allow homeowners to make sufficient preparations to minimise damage.”

“The Homecheck Professional Flood Report is unique, featuring not only data from the Environment Agency, and Norwich Union (the UK’s biggest flood insurers), but also includes records of actual flood claims in the local area.

“This is the first time such detailed flood information has been available to homeowners and buyers. Our newly updated flood reports are designed to help people gauge the potential flood risk of their property. It is of particular use to people in the process of buying a home and who want to know the risks before they purchase. In a flood risk area, insurance cover can be high – or even unavailable.”

The flood report costs £12 and is available through your solicitor or conveyancer, or direct from Landmark on 0844 844 9966, alternatively visit www.homecheck.co.uk, email info@landmarkinfo.co.uk or visit www.landmarkinfo.co.uk.

Enjoy The Magic Of Christmas At Eden Village In Sittingbourne

2007-12-04T21:20:00.000Z

Barratt Kent and Ward Homes are hosting a special Family Carol Concert at Eden Village in Sittingbourne on the evening of Saturday 8 December.

Professional carol singers will create a magical Christmas atmosphere, while visitors enjoy free mulled wine and hot chestnuts. To add to the excitement, Father Christmas will visit with gifts for the children. One of the show homes has even been decorated in the style of a traditional Victorian Christmas.

People are invited to simply turn up and enjoy the festivities, which start at
5 pm and are expected to last until 8 pm. Eden Village is located on Bluebell Drive, off Brenchley Road in Sittingbourne.

Ann Moriarty, sales and marketing director for Barratt Kent and Ward Homes comments: “We wanted to recreate the very special atmosphere of a village at Christmas and to invite people to experience the warm sense of community that is developing at Eden Village. We’re very proud of our fantastic Christmas show home and hope that it will especially entrance our smallest visitors.”

Eden Village is a very attractive new development with a wide variety of homes, ranging from two-bedroom apartments to three, four and five-bedroom houses, some of which are available for instant occupation. Sittingbourne town centre is an easy walk away.
In addition to the traditional houses there are some outstanding new three-bedroom town houses and two-bedroom apartments, branded ‘eScape’. These ultra-modern homes, designed by leading London architects, won a national design competition and have dramatic architectural features that maximise the space and create a breathtaking amount of light.

Each three-bedroom townhouse comes with a detached garage and studio space above and is priced from £325,995.

The two-bedroom open-plan apartments are set totally apart, each above a set of garages, and have their own private front door and stairs, as well as a balcony. Prices start at £184,995.

There are three show homes open daily including the Christmas show home at Orchard Park and the stunning eScape townhouse. To find out more about the traditional homes, contact the Ward Homes (part of the Barratt Group) marketing suite on 01795 475549, open 10.30 am to 5 pm every day. For the eScape homes, contact the Barratt marketing suite on 01795 599055, open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.

Alternatively, visit: www.wardhomes.co.uk or www.barratthomes.co.uk.

Construction Employers Join Network To Champion Diploma

2007-12-04T21:04:00.001Z

CB&I and Lovell are both part of a new network tasked with stimulating support for the Construction and Built Environment Diploma and communicating the fact that the qualification is highly valued by a wide spectrum of employers.

The Diploma Employer Champions Network (DECN) will be led by Sir Alan Jones of Toyota. It currently involves 17 leading employers who will encourage even more organisations to back the Diploma, either by voicing their support for the qualification or by getting involved in a practical way; for example, sending staff into schools and colleges to bring learning to life in their area of expertise.

The Diploma, which has been developed by employers for employers, aims to help young people aged 14 to 19 realise their potential and gain knowledge and skills in a ‘real world’ environment. It can be taken alongside GCSEs, A-levels and vocational subjects but it differs from these traditional qualifications as it combines theoretical study with practical learning, aiming to equip students with skills they can apply to the next stage of their development.

The Construction and Built Environment Diploma will be taught from September 2008 to nearly 4,000 young people across England. It has been developed in consultation with industry to ensure it reflects the needs of employers.

Working with it's Diploma partners ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council for the construction industry, has worked hard since September 2005 to engage employers in the new qualification, and, as well as CB&I and Lovell, it has gained the support of a large number of firms including Wates, Balfour Beatty, G&J Seddon, Kier Group and Bovis Lend Lease.

The new Diploma will require young people to demonstrate numeracy and literacy, but also ability in a number of important practical issues relevant to the construction and built environment sector such as health and safety, sustainability, work based practical learning, and the impact of the built environment on the Community. The Diploma will teach students about professions such as architecture, civil engineering and building services, the regulatory framework, design processes, and the enterprise and management challenges which construction poses.

Speaking today at the National Education Business Partnership Network (NEBPN) conference in London, Schools Minister, Jim Knight, thanked CB&I and Lovell for their support and urged more employers to get involved in supporting and delivering the Diploma.

He said: “I’m delighted to be at the NEBPN conference today to meet members of the new Diploma Employer Champions Network and hear about the fantastic work that employers are already doing with schools and colleges. Education Business Partnerships across the country currently work with over 200,000 employers who are involved with schools in their area. We urge more employers to come on board; not only to act as advocates for this new qualification, but to ensure that young people are coming out of our education system prepared for employment, with more relevant skills and an understanding of work, which will in turn help improve your business.”

Steve Franklin, Head of Training and Development at CB&I, and Bruce Boughton, Training and Development Manager at Lovell, are among the Employer Champions who attended today’s conference.

Steve Franklin said: "Diplomas are a great addition to the qualifications available to young people. Design of the courses has included industry participation and now we need as many employers as possible to help us in making them work effectively. The practical involvement of employers is central to the success of the Diplomas. Many are already involved in work shadowing, work experience and giving talks. I hope that others will join in. Whether big or small, all employers can do something to get involved. Try talking to your local partnership and see what you can do!"

Bruce Boughton said: “We are excited that the new Diploma provides a flexible and balanced curriculum which for the first time will enable students to gain a real understanding of the construction industry. The emphasis on employer involvement in delivering learning and in quality work experience will ensure that students develop skills which are relevant to what employers like Lovell are looking for. Lovell believes that supporting delivery of the Diploma in schools will build relationships direct with young people, and we anticipate it will provide a pipeline of talent into our apprentice, management trainee and university sponsorship programmes.”

Nick Gooderson, Head of Standards and Qualifications at ConstructionSkills said: “Having the support of a range of employers for the Diplomas is vital to their development and delivery. We've already made real progress over the last couple of years in engaging the construction industry in the development of the C&BE Diploma. The time and energy that Steve and Bruce will now be able to bring to the table as our sector's employer champions on this new network will be important in maintaining that momentum, and I'm very grateful for their continued committed support.”

Sir Alan Jones said: “Businesses are always challenging to improve their performance. That requires a workforce with the right skills. The Diploma provides young people with these skills, giving them a career headstart and adding value to their employers. The qualification is a blend of theoretical and practical learning, with an insight into work, and requiring students to gain the functional skills in maths, English and ICT. Diploma graduates will be self-motivated, with the strong thinking and personal skills needed in employment and Higher Education.

The Diploma has been developed by employers for employers so that young people are better prepared for work. Plans for a total of 17 Diplomas are under way and will be available to students across the country by 2013. Last month, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families Ed Balls announced three new Diplomas in Science, Humanities and Languages to be introduced in 2011.

All construction employers, in any size or type of organisation, are encouraged to support the Diploma at either a local or national level. For more information on how your organisation can get involved, please contact www.businesslink.gov.uk/diplomas

CIOB Challenges UK Government To Build A Green Vision With Substance

2007-12-04T20:19:00.000Z

In response to a recent government consultation ‘Strategy for Sustainable Construction’, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has called for a greater emphasis on the ‘big picture’.

Stephen Wielebski a CIOB Ambassador said, “There is a prodigious, and urgent, opportunity for us to develop a Strategy for Sustainable Construction that has real direction and some teeth. But sadly the strategy in its current form does not adequately consider the UK construction industry’s role in delivering sustainability objectives within a national or international context. The lingering debate over the definition of ‘waste’ coupled with the present impasse concerning soil guideline values (SGV’s), are just two of many frustrating issues that prevent us from making meaningful progress.

“The strategy has a strong focus on delivering zero-carbon housing, but simply setting targets for building zero-carbon homes, fails to acknowledge a more significant issue – decarbonisation of the industry’s energy supply at source. Energy produced from non-renewable sources and consumed in building services accounts for approximately 50 percent of UK CO2 emissions. This proposed strategy has good intentions but a lack of co-ordination involving all key stakeholder interests does much to undermine the importance of an issue that needs urgent and planned action worldwide.”

The CIOB supports an outcome based strategy with clear priorities. Any targets that are set should be challenging enough to deliver the desired outcome and not simply the minimum requirement. The CIOB believes the proposed strategy is unclear about organisational roles and responsibilities, and it does not define overall accountability for delivering the strategy.

Whilst it is important for all relevant government departments and industry bodies to sign-up to an agreed proactive strategy; the CIOB believes it is even more important for their roles and responsibilities to be clearly defined within any future strategy.

It is also essential that quality data is produced from which to benchmark and measure progress to achieve success. There must also be consistent and workable definitions across the industry. To view the full CIOB submission please go to http://www.ciob.org/about/ciobpolicies

Give Your Home A Style Of Its Own This Christmas

2007-12-02T19:25:00.000Z

Dressing your Christmas tree will be a whole lot easier this year according to the interior designers who create fantastic show homes for award winning housebuilder Redrow around the UK.

This yuletide, more than ever, it’s a case of ‘anything goes’. From classic traditional to funky pop art, no matter which you choose, your tree can be the best dressed this festive season.

Dawn Kitchener, managing director of interior design company, Connections in Design, says: “This year it’s all about variety. Dressing the home for Christmas has often focused on one particular theme, fashion or colour; however this time around it’s much more exciting, with the emphasis on individual taste, preference and flair.

“Styles that could be adopted include the traditional - using an array of classic candles and bows; or how about the pop art look featuring colourful baubles or maybe metallic, mirrored and sequined details that dazzle under the fairy lights?

“Alternatively a natural or organic look can be created using traditional wooden decorations; or why not go ‘cheap chic’ and decorate your tree using an eclectic mix of decorations found in charity stores – and salve your conscience too.”

Those who love experimenting with colour will be pleased to know that the theme of individuality does not stop at the style of their tree but also extends to the colours they use.

“From electric purples and blues, to classic reds and fresh organic shades, whichever colours you choose your tree can still be fashionable,” adds Dawn. “Those feeling particularly bold could follow trends inspired by the autumn/winter catwalks and decorate their tree in dramatic shades of grey and jet-black.”

The individual, ‘anything goes’ approach to festive decor also extends to the rest of the home and that spectacular centre-piece, the Christmas dinner table.

Says Dawn: “It’s generally best to colour-match accessories such as table runners, placemats, crackers, napkin rings, candle holders, drink charms and crackers with those on your Christmas tree for continuity. Gold and silver are always popular, as are berry reds and regal purples, but the more daring could go down the ‘back to black’ route for a super-chic look.

“By using beads, glitter and silk you can make your dinner a more glamorous affair, while candles scented with cinnamon, nutmeg or cranberry will definitely enhance the atmosphere.”

Dawn’s expert stylists recently put some of their ideas into practice to decorate one of Redrow’s larger, more luxurious properties, giving home owners an idea of what can be achieved. The show home itself is an upmarket and glamorous property, but also quite traditional, so they chose to work with this theme.

Traditional gold, cream and red are the predominant colours for the Christmas décor selected by Connections in Design.

The tree has been decorated using warm rich colours and is dressed with delicate golden ribbon, complemented by elegant bronze tinsel and a selection of classic baubles.

In the dining room, the designers have demonstrated two different styles to show how versatile the traditional Christmas theme can be.

With the first design the inspiration has come from the gilt mirror, luxurious flock wallpaper and silk curtains that combine to give this room an opulence all of its own. Come Christmas day the candlelight reflected in that fabulous mirror will give even the meanest Scrooge a warm glow!

The second design epitomises classic elegance, setting a crisp clean white tablecloth and crockery against large festive red plates and a sprig of traditional holly, giving a warm, homely feel.

For those who’d like to dress a brand new home this Christmas and sit down to roast turkey and all the trimmings in new surroundings, the good news is that Redrow has a number of properties that can be ready to move into in time for the festive season.

For details of local developments log on to www.redrow.co.uk or call 0845 676 0500.

Interior design info: www.connectionsindesign.co.uk

US Ambassador Champions Peabody Trust

2007-11-29T20:37:00.000Z

U.S. Ambassador, Robert H. Tuttle met with Peabody Trust’s Board of Governors and a group of leading specialists on health, housing and urban poverty at the Ambassador’s Regent’s Park residence, Winfield House, today to set the scene for Peabody’s 21st century project.

Chief Executive Stephen Howlett said, “Peabody is embarking on a research project with its residents that will define an exemplar Peabody community in the 21st century. Our estates should be place of pride, offering a quality home and living environment that matches residents’ aspirations as far as possible.”

The findings will influence the way Peabody allocates resources, manages estates and communicates with residents.

Research Director of the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Programme, Alan Berube, set out the challenges of tackling urban poverty in America. Chris Holmes, Director of Housing for Camden Council and former director of the homeless charity Shelter, responded with the particular issues facing the UK.

Among the well-known guests who took part in this morning’s debate were Chief Executive of the London Development Agency, Manny Lewis; Director of Housing Strategy and Support at the Department of Communities for Local Government, Terrie Alafat; London Councillor Jamie Carswell and Director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Julia Unwin.

This was Ambassador Tuttle’s first meeting with Peabody’s Board of Governors since his appointment as Honorary President of the Trust.

Fabulous High Altitude Ski Apartments At Belle Plagne, French Alps

2007-11-28T23:18:00.000Z

Erna Low Property is acting as the sole agent for a fabulous ski-in ski-out residence, the Chalet Hotel Montalys, in the heart of the popular resort of Belle Plagne France. Opening in time for Christmas 2008 and at the foot of the slopes this is a fabulous residence which will be managed by the well respected Montagnettes Group.

Situated at an altitude of 2050m, Belle Plagne is one of the most popular destinations for UK skiers out of the 10 villages and high-altitudes resorts making up the ski area of La Plagne. This resort is car free and completely ski-in ski-out and has its own ESF ski school, numerous bars, restaurants and shops. The La Plagne ski area offers 225km of pistes and from Belle-Plagne you can choose either a gondola or two chairs lifts in order to access runs in all directions towards La Plagne, Montchavin and Les Coches. The pistes are for the most part snow-sure and have a range of runs for all levels. There are also 85 km of stunning wooded cross-country trails to explore.

Chalet Hotel Montalys will comprise 28 one and two bedrooms apartments spread over five floors excluding the basement area. Some of the two bedroom apartments will have a duplex layout. Apartments will come fully furnished with fitted kitchens, spacious lounge area and ski locker with boot warmers.

The interior will reflect the traditional alpine living of the area with wood throughout and large windows with fantastic south facing views over the valley from the balcony. The residence will also boast a luxury spa area with indoor swimming pool, sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi and treatment rooms where in-house masseurs will be available for guests and owners*. Added facilities include breakfast room, lounge with fireplace and seminar room. There is also a lift within the residence. The larger two bed units come with an underground parking space.

The Montagnettes Group, who will manage ‘Chalet Hotel Montalys’, is renowned for their prestigious chalets around the Alps and have always been extremely popular and in high demand with holiday makers due to the high quality of their design and management.

Apartments are for sale on the leaseback scheme. Investors will benefit from guaranteed rental returns of up to 3.75% with two usage options available.

Prices start from 285,000Euros for a fully furnished one bed apartment with ski locker.

Works are due to start in May 2008 with completion scheduled for December 2008.
‘The Hotel Montalys is a residence which really ticks all the boxes – A high altitude position in a superb skiing area; its location in a lively thriving and popular resort; high quality design and interiors; the excellent management company and an array of onsite facilities. These are the sorts of apartments that are constantly in high demand – we expect a very high level of interest’ says Bertie Sanderson Director of Marketing for Erna Low Property.

Sales Enquiries
Email: property@ernalow.co.uk
Web: www.ernalowproperty.co.uk

*at an additional cost

The New Way To Make Purchase Decisions In A Tough Housing Market

2007-11-28T23:14:00.000Z

An innovative new service that will revolutionise the way houses are bought and sold in England and Wales has been developed by Betternest.co.uk. It’s particularly relevant in today’s difficult housing market since it gives buyers greater confidence in making their decisions and provides a powerful tool for sellers to attract purchasers.

Extensive research by chief executive Simon Smith – an Architectural Association graduate - and his team has shown that the majority of terrace and semi-detached houses have hidden potential. Their Betternest Property Potential Report, which costs £395, demonstrates how potential can be exploited by making alterations to bring space benefits and add to a property’s resale value. Information that helps prospective buyers decide between competing properties or assess the likely profit that can be realised by improving a selected one.

The unique feature of the Property Potential Report is that it capitalises on opportunities in, the little understood, permitted development rights attached to most properties, that get round the problem of applying for planning permission, which is expensive and time consuming to seek and can be refused.

The report answers three questions frequently asked by purchasers: what space can I add? How much will it cost? and What profit can I make? A fully detailed sample report can be seen on Betternest’s web site www.betternest.co.uk

Explains Smith, “When you buy a property you buy its potential. I am often asked to visit properties to give an opinion on the development potential that exists to meet client’s short and long term expectations.

"This is what a Betternest Property Potential Report does. It's a unique ,fast and accurate assessment of a house, saying what can be done within the specific rights applying to the property. It shows what can be done to the property, how much it will cost, and what financial return can be expected on the investment."

The Report can be prepared in two to five days, less time than it takes to organise and receive most property surveys.

Own A Stylish Apartment In Exciting Sustainable Community In Altrincham

2007-11-28T18:46:00.000Z

Redrow is giving homehunters in Altrincham the chance to snap up a stylish new apartment at one of the most exciting developments in the North West.

Stamford Brook, built on former National Trust land on the edge of the Dunham Massey estate in Altrincham, is a truly sustainable community that’s emerging into one of the most important developments in the region today.

It’s a flagship venture between the National Trust, and house builders Redrow Homes and Bryant Homes that demonstrates how large developments can offer more sustainable living.

All of the new homes are designed to be ultra-efficient in their use of energy, water and building materials. For example they’re fitted with low volume flush toilets to keep water usage to a minimum and residents are encouraged to segregate their own waste for recycling. While other general environmental standards have been adopted such as the use of sustainable timber.

Redrow is currently offering a range of stylish apartments, suitable for first time buyers, those starting over and downsizers, looking for a change of scenery in the striking Dunham House complex at Stamford Brook.

One and two-bedroom apartments are available in Dunham House, priced from £176,000, featuring an open plan living area and kitchens fitted with an integrated fridge freezer and a free-standing washer-dryer. All apartments also feature an en-suite bathroom to master bedroom.

Some of the ground floor properties have French windows, opening out onto a patio area.

Elaine Mounsey, area sales manager for Redrow Homes (North West) says: “Dunham House is a landmark building in a key position within the development and offers a range of apartment styles.

“These properties are ideal for young professionals, couples starting out and downsizers, all looking for a low maintenance lifestyle.

“With easy access to Manchester city centre and to the motorway network, this development is a commuter’s dream.

“And those looking for a quieter life will be attracted by the green space and wildlife corridors that make Stamford Brook so unique.”

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any better Redrow Homes (North West) is offering a range of fantastic festive deals on selected plots, including up to £500 per month towards your mortgage for up to two years.

There are further two-bedroom apartments, available within the Stamford Brook development priced from £149,950.

But the homes are only part of the Stamford Brook story. The partners have gone to great lengths to improve the natural landscape that will be used and enjoyed by all the residents of this ground-breaking venture.

Sinderland Brook, which runs through Stamford Brook, is the subject of the largest river restoration project of its kind in England, while the development will also include wildlife corridors and community woodland will be regenerated to encourage wildlife and enhance the existing environment.

For further details of Redrow properties at Stamford Brook call 0845 676 0360 or go to www.redrow.co.uk/developments/view/17.

Older Consumers Warned Not To Rush In To “Quick Fix” Sale-And-Rent-Back Schemes

2007-11-26T23:36:00.000Z

• Growing emergence of unregulated sale-and-rent-back schemes target the most vulnerable

• Schemes may offer a quick and speedy home sale, but time should not always be of the essence, warns Key Retirement Solutions

Older consumers should be wary of the growing number of unregulated “sale-and-rent-back” schemes who promise a quick sale of their home at less than market value, warns Key Retirement Solutions, the independent equity release specialist.

In current market conditions, where some consumers are beginning to struggle with higher mortgage repayments, and in some cases, fear repossession as a result of rising interest rates, sale-and-rent-back schemes have emerged offering a so-called “life-line” to overstretched consumers.

Sale-and-rent-back companies will typically purchase a home for less than the market value, around 70% to 80%, paying the majority of associated fees and costs, and then rent the property back to the original owners at market rates. Homeowners can then use the cash to settle their existing mortgage and any outstanding debts, while remaining in their own home. Some companies offer the opportunity to buy the house back at market value at a later date.

However, Key Retirement Solutions is concerned about these schemes for a variety of reasons:

They are not regulated as the traditional mortgage and equity release market is by the FSA, hence consumers have little protection
They are often promoted on the basis that they offer a quick and speedy sale, yet a commitment as big as this should be carefully thought through
They are being promoted by some as a means of “equity release” which will confuse consumers, yet the method of these schemes differ hugely from regulated lifetime mortgage and home reversion products

As is the case with traditional equity release schemes, signing up to sale-and-rent-back is a big decision and one that requires careful consideration and independent advice. Yet, many of the sale-and-rent-back companies leverage themselves on their ability to deliver a quick and speedy sale. For example, many company names reflect this, including http://www.rapidhomesale.org/ and http://www.a-quick-sale.co.uk/rentback/. Another, Property Rescue, offers a guarantee to “buy your home for cash and exchange within two days”; and Lighthouse Properties advertises “a quick sale for cash – exchange and complete in seven days…we’ll make you an offer within 24 hours”

Dean Mirfin, Business Development Director at Key Retirement Solutions: “Concern is certainly on the up about sale-and-rent-back schemes, a dramatically increasing unregulated sector of the property market. In these cases, speed should really not be of the essence as such a big decision linked to the ownership of a home should be carefully thought through, including family members, and an adviser should be consulted who can discuss all possible options.”

In the first six months of 2007, 14,000 properties1 (equivalent to 77 a day) were taken into possession. This rose by nearly 18% compared with the previous half-year, and nearly 30% compared with the first half of 20061. The number of mortgages in arrears of three months or more at the end of June 2007 rose to an estimated 125,100, up 4% compared with the end of December 20061.

Dean Mirfin continued: “We accept that with thorough research some may still opt for these schemes but we urge those who certainly do not need such a quick fix solution to compare all of their options. A quick glance at the websites of many of these sale-and-rent back schemes will indicate that they are clearly targeting those that are vulnerable; on the brink of repossession or have unmanageable debts. If people are considering unlocking any cash in their home the only advice should be to make sure they seek independent financial advice, ideally from an adviser that specialises in this area.

“It is also important that consumers realise that sale-and-rent-back is not equity release in the same way as the regulated market. There are many differences, but the key one is that sale-and-rent-back provides very little protection to consumers whereas the equity release industry provides complete protection. All our advisers are trained to the highest standard.

“Our independent guide to releasing equity from your home is the best place to start for anyone investigating the option of equity release and discusses the alternatives too. This can be obtained by calling 0800 531 6010 or visiting our website where the guide can be downloaded at www.keyrs.co.uk.”

Savills Unwraps Final Auction Catalogue Of The Year

2007-11-26T23:23:00.000Z

Savills has released its sales catalogue in preparation for its December auction. The sale will take place in The Ballroom, Claridge’s Hotel, Brook Street, London, W1 on Monday 10 December 2007 at 2.30pm.

The catalogue consists of 43 lots, with guide prices totalling approximately £40 million. It includes instructions from Thames River Capital, AXA REIM, Churchill College Cambridge, Craegmoor Healthcare Limited, Irish Life, and St John's College Oxford, amongst others.

James Cannon, head of commercial auctions, says:
"The private investor continues to show confidence in the auctions market and has demonstrated this by investing over £500 million into direct property in the last round of auctions. Despite the fact there has been some uncertainty reported in the media, investors appear to recognise the long-term value in the property sector and continue to pay similar prices for the right properties to those demonstrated in the last quarter.

“We are confident that buyers and sellers continue to benefit from our service as we can provide experts within our network, across all disciplines and regions, to ensure that pricing is accurate. There are some great opportunities within the catalogue and we are looking forward to rounding off this year with another busy auction."

Properties of note include:

Lot 6: 34 Melville Street, Edinburgh
The heritable investment property comprises a mid-terrace four-storey Georgian townhouse situated on the south side of Melville Street, close to its junction with Stafford Street. Set in the centre of Edinburgh’s New Town district, the property is arranged as four floors of office space and ancillary accommodation, and includes five parking spaces with separate rear access. The property totals 4,126 sq ft (383 sq m) and is let to Legal and General on a lease expiring in May 2013, at a rent of £64,500 pa. The entire property is currently occupied by Henderson Loggie Chartered Accountants, on a co-terminus sub-lease, at a rent of £68,000 pa. Nearby occupiers include British Linen Advisers, Harper MacLeod, Tilney Investment Management, WS Atkins and St James Partnership. The property is offered at a guide price of £1.3 million to £1.35 million.

Lot 16: The Liongate Hotel, Hampton Court Road, Hampton Court, Nr Kingston-Upon-Thames, Surrey
The freehold property comprises a 32-bedroom hotel, split over two neighbouring sites, with a combined area of 0.32 acres (0.13 hectares) of land. Located just 200 metres from Hampton Court Palace, the hotel is situated either side of the Hampton Court Road and overlooks Bushy Park on one side and the Royal Palace Gardens on the other.

To the North of the road lies the main hotel building, which is arranged over a basement, ground and three upper floors, and totals 10,441 sq ft (970 sq m). It houses the majority of bedrooms, a conference room and a bar and restaurant. It is situated adjacent to a large visitor car park on its right and the Chestnut Avenue entrance to Bushy Park on its left.

On the other side of the road stands an L-shaped mews building, comprising further bedrooms and some additional space for parking. With an area of 4,015 sq ft (373 sq m) the property is primarily set over a ground floor only, but runs to two storeys on its southern section. It occupies a prominent position next to The Lion Gates, which provide direct access to Hampton Court Gardens.

All bedrooms in this hotel are en-suite and the property is offered vacant at auction with a guide price of £4 million and above.

Lot 22: Blaisdon Way, Springfield, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
The property comprises a 27,166 sq ft (2,524 sq m) modern industrial warehouse unit with ancillary office space, arranged over a single storey. Occupying a site area of 1.64 acres (0.67 hectares), the property is let to Nationwide Crash Repair Centres Ltd on a lease expiring in 2020, at a rent of £135,000 pa. Located on the Western edge of Cheltenham, just off the A4019 Tewkesbury Road, the property lies just over one mile from Junction 10 of the M5 motorway and therefore within easy transport access of Bristol and the West Midlands. It is offered as a virtual freehold, and held on a lease term of 999 years from 13 May 2005 at a peppercorn rent, with the option of acquiring the freehold for £1 in 2025. The property has a guide price of £1.8 million to £1.9 million.

Lot 23: Caradoc Hall, Caradoc Close, Wyken, Coventry
This freehold investment property comprises a 17-storey ex-local authority residential block, encompassing 128 flats. Set on the eastern edge of the city, three miles East of the City centre, the building was formerly occupied as student halls of residence for Coventry University. It was sold by the University to a private investor in October this year (2007) and is currently undergoing minor refurbishments.

Arranged as 16 floors of eight flats and a ground level 24-hour concierge service, the building comprises 64 studio apartments, 64 one-bed flats and a care-takers’ residence. Two eight-person passenger lifts serve all floors, and the flats are all fully-furnished and ready to let. Since marketing commenced in mid-October, 20 flats have been let out on assured shorthold tenancies, at rents ranging from £325 pcm to £375pcm. Occupiers include doctors and other health workers from the nearby Walsgrave hospital, and the owners are currently in discussion with a number of local government and private organisations to lease out the rest of the space as block lettings.

Investors have also shown considerable interest in the property and offers have been made in the region of £50,000 to £60,000 per flat. Based on these calculations, the market price for the building could potentially come to over £6.4 million. The property is offered at auction with a guide price of £3.25 million to £3.5 million.

The New Face Of Portugal On The Blue Coast

2007-11-26T23:11:00.000Z

With Spain currently off most investor’s radars, Portugal has seen a dramatic resurgence, which has led to it becoming the most talked about European investment hotspot. Emerging areas within this established market have been the favoured choice and the Blue Coast is one such market that is experiencing unparalleled investment.

Martin Bowen, UK Sales Director for Profile Europe (UK) Ltd, says,
“Portugal is on the crest of an investment wave, with estimates of increased interest for up to 10 years. The prognosis therefore for investors is exceptional, particularly in view of predictions of property in some regions of Portugal rising by up to 360% in the next decade.”

Profile Europe (UK) now has pleasure in bringing to the market, Parmela Village Golf Resort on the emerging Blue Coast. This futuristic sought after lifestyle development brings to the market a selection of townhouse apartments and villas incorporating some of the most advanced architectural designs seen so far in the 21st Century. This village resort offers communal and private swimming pools, fully furnished properties, excellent leisure facilities and an 18 hole golf course designed by Jorge Santana da Silva, which has been carefully created to blend in with the superb natural setting. In addition, it is further complimented by an on site supermarket, bar, restaurant, clubhouse, launderette, beauty clinic and healthcare facilities.

Situated between Palmela and Azeitao, on the edge of the Arrabida Mountains, Palmela Village is ideally located on Portugal’s favoured Blue Coast and is just 20 minutes away from Lisbon, another big plus for investors. This favoured location is ensuring that demand on the Blue Coast is soaring, yet with a lack of high quality properties available interest for exclusive developments, such as Palmela Village Golf Resort is high. Investors are assured of strong rental opportunities because of its close proximity to the capital and benefit further from the current low prices in the region which are half of what you would expect to pay for similar property on the Algarve.

Martin continues, “Palmela Village is located right in the heart of one of Europe’s most popular golf-tourism destinations, with no less than 18 superb courses all within easy reach, including Estoril, Penha Longa and Quinta da beloura. Add to this, the mix of excellent leisure facilities that Parmela Village offers; football, athletics track, tennis, cycle track and gymnasium this is a resort that offers the best of both worlds. It is without doubt an outstanding investment opportunity in a location that is at the start of its ‘boom’ period. Investors can enjoy their lifestyle property within a contemporary village offering traditional values.”

Prices start from just £108,350 and properties come with 5% net guaranteed rental, including up to 5 weeks free use each year.

Profile Europe (UK) Ltd now market in Dubai, France, Cape Verde, Morocco, Brazil, Spain, Portugal and India

New Airport In Southern Crete

2007-11-26T22:59:00.000Z

Sitia airport on the North East coast of Crete is about to be upgraded opening up a whole new area of this pretty unspoilt Greek island. Sitia has not previously been used for commercial flights but according to the Greek Prime Minister the airport offers great potential for tourists and investors and will by 2009, be able to accept commercial flights from all over Europe. Already the foundations are in for the three new terminals which will make the airport capable of receiving up to seven planes in total at any one time.

Richard Brady, Director at Olive Tree International says, “If buyers are looking to invest in a country where all the signs are positive, then Crete should be seriously considered. The island, which is the largest of the Greek islands, is steeped in history, has an excellent sunshine record, low cost of living, most locals speak some English and its infrastructure is that of modern European standards.”

This is just part of major plans recently laid out for the promotion of Crete by the Greek Prime Minister as he spoke on prime time television and promised 2 billion euro investment within the next few years.

“This is excellent news”, continues Richard, “those looking to buy properties for capital growth should take serious note of such a financial commitment by the Government. The island has not been a prime area of growth but we have seen tremendous changes in other countries when they get substantial financial backing. We see this as a breakthrough for the property market of Crete”.

The Prime Minister, Dr. Kostas Karamanlis, stated that the Government’s fundamental strategic choice as part of the country’s development course has been to add to and extend the tourist industry whilst upgrading its quality. They support the creation of modern infrastructure, the development of new forms of tourism and the promotion of Greece, internationally.

Part of the plans are to are to open up the eastern coastal regions of Crete as it was felt that these were most favoured for substantial growth for investment to provide quality tourist areas with signature golf courses and five star hotels with conference facilities and spas to attract world travellers.

Currently Olive Tree International is marketing off plan, superb two bedroom apartments at Bay View near the town of Makriyialos on the South East coast. This area is as yet quite undeveloped as it is around two hours from the airport however with the opening up of Sitia airport it will be much more readily accessible making it a prime location.

A similar development to Bay View recently sold completely off plan, so interest in the latest “Bay View” is expected to be high.

Prices range from £71,121/98,000 euros to £82,615/114,000 euros. There are also bungalows available for £172,415/240,000 euros. The development is just two minutes walk from the beach and two minutes drive from Makriyialos with shops cafes, bars and restaurants. Within 30 minutes one can be at Sitia Harbour enjoying the excellent seafood restaurants. Each home has access to a communal swimming pool.

Concluded Richard, “The Government’s commitments to promoting and improving the tourist industry are superb. It offers dynamic, sustainable long term growth to the region, which in turn will increase capital growth of properties.

For those interested in buying at “Bay View” there are up 70% off plan mortgages available making it possible to benefit from excellent rental opportunities.”

For an investment “Bay View” has much to offer as local agents report that demand for rental property exceeds supply. There are Government grants available of up to 50% for golf courses and 40% for five star hotels all of which is part of the “most favoured” status that Eastern Crete has received. Always seen as a holiday or retirement destination, it is now emerging as a top investment market, poised to offer greater returns than Eastern Europe but with comparative and competitive market values.

Olive Tree International Property Limited
0845 2570227
www.olivetreeworld.com

New Year Resolution: Improve Workspace And Running Costs

2007-11-26T21:18:00.000Z

The New Year can start with new premises that solve the problem of balancing overhead costs and creating a professional image, through an innovative approach to commercial property letting.

Willan Investments, one of the North West’s most progressive development companies, is now offering new-build high quality rental units at its Woodrow Business Centre in Irlam, Manchester, from as low as £165/week for 1370 sq ft, on as short as a three year lease.

The Woodrow Business Centre incorporates seven two-storey hybrid units up to 5,215 sq ft and four single storey workshop units each of 1370 sq ft. The hybrid units are claimed by Willan and tenants alike to be unique in the Manchester area in their combination of new, purpose-built
office: warehouse/workshop facilities. Tenants already include the award-winning RCM Marine which develops and produces maritime plant monitoring systems and Mitten Asbestos, specialist asbestos removal consultant and contractor.

Toby Holmes, Willan Investments Management Surveyor, observes, “Small companies are always focusing on their overhead costs, trying to assess how much they can afford to spend on rent. Too often in the commercial property market, tenants have to commit to a minimum 10 year lease, and find that before that time expires, their needs have changed: they need more space, less space, different space, better quality space….How many business people can predict with any conviction where their company will be in three years’ time, let alone in ten years hence?

“We have an ethos of trying to work with tenants to enable them to focus on their business and succeed. Woodrow Business Centre has been purpose-developed with this in mind, to give the region quality premises of a type that just isn’t available, on terms which suit tenants.”

Willan Investments is part of the Willan Group. Founded in the 1930s and still family-owned, the company is now one of the most progressive regional commercial development companies, applying innovative thinking to develop solutions to give businesses the accommodation they need, where they need it, and within realistic budgets.

Barratt Homes Launches The Crescent, The Jewel In The Crown At Reading’s Shinfield Park

2007-11-26T21:07:00.000Z

Barratt Thames Valley has launched The Crescent at its popular Shinfield Park scheme in Reading; the final stage of the development and offering a striking range of two bedroom apartments, three bedroom townhouses and a two bedroom coach house.

Michael O’Leary, managing director of Barratt Thames Valley, says:
“The Crescent is the jewel in the crown at Shinfield Park, with the properties overlooking a green, part of the original parkland grounds, and a Grade II listed mansion house. This is also the first opportunity buyers have had in more than 12 months to purchase an apartment at the development and we expect most to be snapped up off-plan.”

All of the homes in The Crescent will be ready to move into in June next year, but if you can’t wait until then, there is a collection of three and four bedroom townhouses and the last few detached houses available now.

Barratt is offering its excellent part exchange deal on all properties, and will handle the HIPs requirement on your old property for you. Buyers can also take advantage of Barratt’s ‘Six of the Best’ special offer where the housebuilder will pay the deposit and £1000 towards legal fees and all carpets, curtains, light fittings and a fridge/freezer will be included in the price.

Shinfield Park - which won a Gold in the Hot Property awards earlier this year - is set in 38 acres of parkland in Shinfield. The scheme is ideally placed for those who want to be close to Reading town centre, three miles away, but who want to live in a rural location. Great facilities, such as the Madejski stadium, The Oracle shopping centre, supermarkets within a couple of miles and a wide range of schools and colleges, including the private Crosfields School near Barratt’s development, make Shinfield Park a great choice for families.

Reading’s central location plays a major role in the town’s popularity, being within half an hour’s drive of London, Maidenhead, Oxford and Slough. Bath and Swindon to the west, and Basingstoke and Southampton to the south, are also within commuting distance.

Barratt Homes launches The Crescent, the jewel in the crown at Reading’s Shinfield Park

Prices for the properties in The Crescent start from £239,950 for a two bedroom apartment. Prices for the townhouses and detached houses available to move into now start from £369,950 for a three bedroom townhouse and from £514,950 for a six bedroom detached home. The sales and marketing suite, and three striking showhomes, is open seven days a week, from 11am to 6pm, telephone 01189 751267 or visit www.barratthomes.co.uk

Stylish New Willow Brook Homes At The Old MG Works

2007-11-21T13:15:00.000Z

A wide range of new apartments and houses are now available to view in Abingdon. Set where the Old MG Works used to be, the Willow Brook development will boast 43 new homes. Each will be fully-carpeted and include Bosch appliances and quality chrome fittings.

The Willow Brook development includes; 21 two-bedroom apartments, priced from £195,000; 23 houses from £225,000 for two bedrooms, £265,000 for three bedrooms and £320,000 for a four-bedroom three-storey house. Designed and built by Witney-based developers Builders Ede, the first phase of apartments and houses is due for completion in Spring 2008. Most of the apartments and houses will feature en-suite bathrooms.

Claire Johnson, Sales Manager at Builders Ede, said: “Willow Brook offers ideal opportunities for a range of people from first time buyers to couples wanting to downsize and enjoy stylish living within a traditional market town.”

Abingdon enjoys a rich cultural history. The regular Monday market, established before the 1300’s, still thrives today and a monthly farmers market sells fresh organic produce. Other traditions in the town include the annual Michaelmas Fair. Abingdon also has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, pubs and even riverside moorings.

For information or to view the Willow Brook homes contact Builders Ede site office 01235 555 222 or visit www.buildersede.co.uk. The site office open hours are between 10am – 4pm every day except Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Marrakech - The Rose City Break

2007-03-30T16:59:00.000+01:00

Thanks to airline deregulation, Marrakech is now well-placed to compete alongside Prague, Barcelona and Rome in the lucrative, high income earning sector of City Breaks. Once ‘just another’ stage in package tours of Morocco’s historic cities, alongside Casablanca, Fez and Agadir, Marrakech has now grown up into a stand-alone destination and with hotels at capacity, the apartments at El Oasis de Marrakech expect to make a steady rental income.

Thanks to airline deregulation, Marrakech is now well-placed to compete alongside Prague, Barcelona and Rome in the lucrative, high income earning sector of City Breaks. According to the Official Airline Guide (OAG) there were around 39 flights a week between London airports and Marrakech before the EU Open Skies agreement was implemented in 2006. But since the first low cost carrier, EasyJet, touched down in July 2006 there are now over 100 direct flights every week between the two cities with the assistance of RyanAir, Thomson Fly, GB Airways and Atlas Blue (the Royal Air Maroc no-frills subsidiary). With a three and a half hour flying time between London and Marrakech and prices starting from just 99p plus tax each way, a City Break to the Rose City is well within reach.

King Mohammed’s focussed and ambitious plan to attract 10 million tourists by 2010 (from 5.8 million in 2005) has been well-publicised and Marrakech is stepping up a gear to make its modest contribution to his targets. Once ‘just another’ stage in package tours of Morocco’s historic cities, alongside Casablanca, Fez and Agadir, Marrakech has now grown up into a stand-alone destination. The launch of new resorts and entertainment facilities is really beginning to bear fruit and a 2006 report by the Oxford Business Group confirms that “arrivals were up an impressive 22% to 1.4 million in 2005, according to official figures, while total arrivals to Morocco grew just 5%. The total number of nights spent surged even faster, increasing by 27%.”

The Regional Tourism Centre (CRT) however appears to be distinctly underwhelmed with success to date and wants to see those 1.4 million arrivals eclipsed by a figure of 2.8 million in 2008. The Government has raised its tourism tax from an average of 5 Dirhams (30p) to 8 Dirhams (50p) per night so the resources are certainly in place for the CRT to target its potential market. Marrakech is certainly making sure that it is well equipped for this ambitious goal with a 30% increase in the number of beds expected for 2008 as well as an airport extension programme to increase total capacity to 8 million passengers per year.

Adam Cornwell, Director of GEM Estates, sees projects such as El Oasis de Marrakech playing a pivotal role in this quest for the City Break market. Adam comments, “El Oasis de Marrakech is ideally placed next to the Beverly Hills of Marrakech, the Palmeraie, just 10 minutes’ from the vibrant Djemâa el Fna Square and 10 minutes’ from the international airport. The spacious apartments share swimming pools, Spas, tennis courts, a health centre, restaurants, supermarkets, bank, medical facilities and a business centre and provide the perfect base for exploring this stunning city. The developer is so confident of the resort’s appeal that they will pay your mortgage and service charges for the first two years after completion and also give you a 3% net rental guarantee for the same period. With only 25% capital outlay, nothing else to pay until two years after completion, scheduled for 2008, and capital appreciation sitting at 20 to 25% per annum, investors here can't go far wrong.”

Prices start from just £80,000 GBP for a one bedroom apartment with only 25% upfront and balance upon completion in 2008. Mortgages, arranged via the developer, are in place to cover the remaining 75%.

Contact GEM Estates now on info@gem-estates.com, visit www.gem-estates.com or call UK Freephone 0800 036 0068, Irish Freephone 1800 211 462 or call the Spanish office on 0034 952 799 286 to find out more.

Money Portal Acquires Stake In The Property Investment Market

2007-03-29T17:13:00.000+01:00

The Property Investment Market (TPIM), the world’s first property exchange, has today announced that Money Portal Plc, the UK’s largest independent distributor of retail financial services, has acquired a 7.8% stake in the company with the ability to increase its holding to up to 20%.

TPIM provides an internet based exchange (www.tpimarket.com) which allows private investors to buy and sell shares in individual residential properties, just as they would currently trade shares in the stock market. With a minimum investment of £1, TPIM aims to overcome many of the barriers that prevent entry to the property market, enabling investors to hold as diverse and as large a property portfolio as they choose.

Money Portal currently has over 1,200 independent financial advisers and a customer base of 600,000 with investments of approximately £8 billion. It is expected that the investment by Money Portal will bring significant additional volume to TPIM by raising awareness of the property exchange.

Stephen Kenny, Chief Executive of The Property Investment Market, said:
“I believe today’s announcement to be a very significant step in our development, as we continue to build a highly liquid exchange which allows people to buy and sell equity in individual properties easily and cost effectively. The Property Investment Market has already made very good progress, and Money Portal’s substantial distribution network and retail customer base will certainly accelerate this process.”

Richard Craven, CEO at Money Portal said about the investment:
“We are excited by the potential for this novel way of trading in the property investment sector and see huge opportunities for synergy between our distribution capability, the aspirations of our clients and the many financial planning possibilities opened up by means of The Property Investment Market. The main challenge with anything new is to lift awareness and explain the benefits.

“Property as an asset class is well understood by our IFAs who collectively advise on mortgage lending in excess of £6 billion each year in addition to assisting their clients build well-balanced investment portfolios.”

Spain Is Hot Property For Brits!

2007-03-29T17:06:00.000+01:00

When it comes to investing in a second home abroad, Spain is the hottest place to be right now (no pun intended!). Research shows that the number of Brits buying property abroad is higher than ever, with over a quarter of a million UK households owned second homes abroad by 2003/04. According to 2006 Social Trends reports, issued by the Office for National Statistics, UK households have invested £23 billion in second homes abroad - almost 80 per cent of this investment in Europe.

Spain is the most popular market, accounting for 27% of all second homes owned abroad, followed by France, where 20% are located. With its gorgeous weather and vibrant mix of culture, countryside and beaches, you will find everything you are looking for in Spain. Its close proximity to the UK and wealth of low-cost flights to choose from have made it so easy for Brits to access their dream holiday home whenever they want to.

If you are looking for property in Spain, myPropertyPal.com provides a unique, independent, live research tool for buying a home abroad. Featuring nearly 500 spectacular properties in Spain, myPropertyPal.com offers everything from a stunning Spanish mansion on the Costa Blanca, to a beautiful beach apartment in Estepona, complete with marble floors, pool and jacuzzi. Whether you are looking for a luxurious villa in Javea, or a rural country casa in Valencia, perfect for a B&B, myPropertyPal.com has the best Spanish properties around.

If you've always fancied a home in Spain but are confused by not really knowing the language or worried about getting ripped off by dodgy contractors, you don't need to worry as myPropertyPal.com will guide you through the whole process. Property Pals are people who live in a specific region and, acting independently from estate agents, pass on invaluable information to help consumers select overseas homes safely. There is a Property Pal in each region on hand to answer any questions. They are available to answer consumers' questions regarding overseas property investment before consumers travel, during their trip and when they come back. Simply use your PropertyPal as an 'email friend' to find your perfect property overseas.

As well as your own personal advisor, there is loads of useful advice and information on the website, with new articles written by experienced travel writers being added fortnightly. From information about selecting a budget, viewing properties, deciding on necessary nearby facilities and legal advice, everything you need to buy a foreign home is available at myPropertyPal.com.

The website also offers ongoing email support, 24-hour telephone support and a friendly customer forum where consumers can share their experiences with others. As well as this, there are articles containing useful country information and information about businesses for sale abroad, hot spots and unusual property. So don't delay, visit www.myPropertyPal.com today.

An Easter Treat That's 'Out Of This World' At Jupiter Court, Cippenham, Near Slough

2007-03-29T17:04:00.000+01:00

There is an extra treat in store for house hunters in Cippenham, near Slough, this Easter with the opening of a new show apartment on Good Friday marking the launch of Kebbell Homes’ stylish Jupiter Court development.

Jupiter Court is a development of 24 smart two bedroom apartments, each with an allocated parking space, and enclosed by wrought iron security gates. Located just off Bath Road in Cippenham, these stunning apartments are housed within five strikingly handsome buildings. Contemporary and stylish, these apartments which offer every comfort of modern living, are constructed to Kebbell Homes’ exacting standards of finish and specification.

“This area is perfect for first time buyers and for the rental market, so these homes have been designed to be comfortable and easy to live in, with features creating a real impact,” explains Gin Roaf, Sales and Marketing Director for Kebbell Homes. “The show apartment’s kitchen is a great example of exceptional style, combining bold burgundy units with a subtle grey surfaces to create a wonderful vibrancy that is then re-introduced with bold flashes of colour around the apartment!”

All of the apartments are fitted with kitchens by Alno incorporating a range of integrated appliances, including a stainless steel oven and extractor canopy, as well as a washer/dryer and dishwasher and fridge freezer. Bathrooms are similarly well finished, with white sanitary ware from Ideal Standard and smart chrome fittings.

Living areas are generous and well organised, with fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, and en suite facilities in most apartments. Heating is provided by energy efficient electric panels, and all properties have an entry phone system linking the homes to the front entrance door and wrought iron gates.

The properties are conveniently located for the major road networks, with junction 7 of the M4 just a mile or so away, allowing access east and west, whilst Burnham train station is just a stroll away. The nearby business centre of Slough has a wide range of local amenities and facilities, from health clubs to night clubs and supermarkets to restaurants.

Prices at Jupiter Court range from £199,950 to £215,000 for a two bedroom apartment, For more information, the sales reception and show apartment in Stowe Road, Cippenham is open daily from 10am to 5pm, from Saturday 31st March, call 01628 669861 or contact sole selling agent, Berkshire Property Services, on 01753 551333.

More details on further Kebbell Homes developments in the South East are available on the Kebbell website: www.kebbell.co.uk

Growth In Consumers Demanding Premier Properties

2007-03-28T17:10:00.000+01:00

An increasing number of senior professionals are demanding a more tailored, specialist service from their local agents when searching for their next home, says email4property.co.uk.

With many senior professionals in this niche market opting to exclusively use those local agents specialising in premier properties, and more people searching online for their next home than ever before, those agents dedicated to offering premier properties are placing an increasing emphasis on online marketing to service this thriving market.

In response to the growing demand from purchasers for premier property, email4property.co.uk, the largest network of local websites for estate agents in the UK, has added a dedicated ‘Premier Property’ search tool to their site. The dedicated ‘Premier Property’ search facility allows consumers who are looking to spend around £750k + on their next home to filter the agents that they view, enabling them to go directly to premier agents’ websites.

David Bexon, Managing Director, email4property said: “We have become increasingly aware of the large number of professional buyers searching our site for agents offering top end properties and as a result we have opted to add a ‘Premier Property’ section to cater specifically for this buying group and to allow those agents offering these properties more immediate access to their potential client base.

“Simple, online searching is no-longer enough in our cash rich, time poor nation. Consumers want faster and more efficient search tools to save them from sifting through a whole range of agents and properties available in any given location. By adding the ‘Premier Property’ section to our site, visitors can select their desired location and then link immediately to the relevant agents who are offering a range of potential homes, closely aligned with their individual requirements.”

LRAU ‘Land Grab’ In Valencia – Does It Affect The Costa Del Sol?

2006-07-21T02:58:00.000+01:00

In short, the answer is a resounding ‘no’. However, due to the media hype surrounding ‘land grab’ (Ley Reguladora de Actividad Urbanistica – LRAU) and the high profile given to a few unpleasant cases, a degree of fear has been put into the would-be Spanish property purchaser – on whichever Costa that may be.

Paul Rossiter, Managing Director of Carrington Estates, a real estate agency specializing in land for self-build, is only too aware of this publicity-induced fear. Having recently exhibited at the Grand Designs Live exhibition at London’s Excel Centre, he spent considerable time fielding ‘land grab’ related questions.

Paul comments, “Many visitors to the exhibition were attracted to our stand as we offer affordable plots on Spain’s most fashionable and desirable Costa, but we received a consistent flurry of queries as to whether the land offered was safe from ‘land grab’ - basically defined as the right of local developers to compulsorily purchase rural land from the existing owners in order to convert it into urban land on the basis of installing mains water, sewerage and new roads. A good deal of clients were not fully aware of the constraints of the LRAU and believed it applied to the Costas in general. Only through our grasp of the facts were we able to reassure many an unsettled mind and confirm that LRAU does not apply to any of Carrington Estates’ projects on the Costa del Sol.”

So what are the facts? The LRAU was passed in 1994 to speed up urban development in the Valencian region. The Valencian region covers the provinces of Alicante, Valencia and Castellón and is controlled by a regional government. The reasoning behind the law was that urban development would benefit the community in general and prevent land-bank speculators from holding onto rural land thus hindering progress. Rural land close to the beach, the land in shortest supply, was and is exploited the most by the LRAU. In certain isolated cases where rural land was forcibly purchased from the owner at below market value, a bill would subsequently arrive to cover a percentage of the cost of the infrastructure improvement.

Until the law was changed in 2005 to an ‘objection period’ of 20 days to three months, the affected rural homeowners had just 15 days to object to the development. It’s feasible that an expatriate holiday homeowner wouldn’t even empty their postbox in those 15 days, let alone formulate a cohesive objection. Consequences in the most extreme cases meant a bulldozed home upon return to sunny Spain.

When it comes to the Valencian region, the LRAU has a certain shelf life. International pressure has been applied to Spain to amend the law and already selected cases are making their way through to European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The European Commission has also recognized the fact that LRAU contravenes European law on individual property rights.

Back to the Costa del Sol. In short the LRAU only applies to the Valencian region, the Costa del Sol is not affected. In turn, the law only applies to rural land which has not yet been urbanized. Buy in an urbanized area of Valencia and you are secure from future development and therefore ‘land grab’. And finally and perhaps most importantly, LRAU has only affected a minority in Valencia. In the scheme of things, the overwhelming majority of property owners in Spain have never experienced any significant problems in their many years of owning property on the Iberian Peninsula.

Rossiter concludes, “As is often the way of the world, a minority situation is tarnishing the reputation of many. The LRAU does not apply in any way to the Costa del Sol. However, it is our responsibility as a reputable agent to put our potential clients’ minds at rest and offer them every kind of factual reassurance that their land here is safe.”

Please contact Carrington Estates on 00 34 952 810 868
UK Local Rate 0845 094 1168
Email info@carrington-estates.com

www.carrington-estates.com.

Rare Opportunity To Rent A Modern Industrial Unit In Northampton

2006-07-20T23:56:00.000+01:00

Commercial property agent, Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has been appointed to assign the lease on unit two Barn Way on the Lodge Farm Industrial Estate in Northampton.

Acting on behalf of the previous tenant, S & J Plastics, LSH can offer unit two on a sub-lease at the passing rent of £69,666 per annum, which equates to £5.14 per square foot.

The modern property comprises a detached 13,537 sq ft self contained warehouse unit that benefits from an open warehouse with a minimum eaves height of 6.5m, two electric loading doors, two storey fitted office / ancillary accommodation and a self contained loading and car parking area.

Commenting Richard Baker of LSH said, “I expect there to be a considerable amount of interest in this unit, due to the lack of other available units of a similar size and specification in the Northampton area. As stated in Lambert Smith Hampton’s own research (M1 Corridor: Industrial Market Review, June 2006) the Northampton market is experiencing a lack of available units in excess of 10,000 sq ft.”

Interested parties should contact Richard Baker at Lambert Smith Hampton on 01604 233123 or rbaker@lsh.co.uk

Holidaylease.com Launches Free Leasing Web Site - Site Sees An End To Paying For Leasing Listings And Advertising

2006-07-20T20:54:00.000+01:00

Holidaylease.com is a new, free, user-friendly web site designed to offer a free way to find the perfect holiday hideaway. Users can browse through the site to find their ideal location and accommodation, then deal direct with accommodation owners to secure their perfect getaway.

The site is unique to the industry as it is totally free. Accommodation owners can advertise their properties for free and with no middlemen, operators or agents so holidaymakers end up paying only for their holiday and not another company's commission or booking fee.

There is a property management area where customers can keep track of booking enquiries and keep their availability calendar up to date.

"The launch of Holidaylease.com is an important mile-stone for the holiday leasing industry. It will finally allow accommodation owners and holidaymakers to come together without having to pay extortionate advertising listing fees or holiday search fees. We are really excited about this and are looking forward to the future." Said Chris Brown, Managing Director of Holidaylease.com.

Please visit www.holidaylease.com for more information.

The Green Approach To Living Proves Popular

2006-07-20T20:02:00.000+01:00

It could be the high interior specification, the sought-after location just minutes from the M53, or the outstanding design of the properties – but whatever the reason, sales at Lowry’s latest development on the Wirral, THE GREEN, off Beechwood Drive, are exceeding expectations.

Lowry’s previous developments in the area were very well received, so perhaps it’s no surprise that The Green’s choice of two and three bedroom, semi-detached homes are so popular with purchasers seeking that certain extra appeal that Lowry Homes are renowned for offering.

The company is well aware of the upheaval moving house can create and goes out of its way to make the process as stress and expense-free as possible:

At The Green purchasers can benefit from having their 5% deposit paid, receiving financial assistance with legal fees, and even having carpets fitted throughout – subject to status.
But perhaps the best news for buyers is the superb value on offer at this development, with prices starting from only £117,500.

The Sales Centre at The Green is open from 11.00 am to 6.00pm, Thursday to Monday and can be contacted on 0151 677 5766.

Sales Information:
Becky Leighton, Sales Manager,
Tel: 0161 888 3800.
Email: sales@lowryhomes.com
Web: www.lowryhomes.com

Las Olas Condo Hotel In The Dominican Republic Available Through IMOINVEST

2006-07-20T17:48:00.000+01:00

The Dominican Republic is one of the fastest growing business markets in the world. Tourism, agriculture and manufacturing have long been a mainstay of the country’s gross domestic products; however, one of the fastest growing sectors is now in real estate and canny investors are investing in large numbers with potentially huge capital rewards.

Andrea Marie Portugal Marketing Manager of IMOINVEST says, “The Dominican Republic is certainly one of the ‘must watch’ locations as expectations of significant capital appreciation here are extremely high. Real Estate is taking off in ways never experienced in this Caribbean paradise before and with so many new investments from worldwide companies now involved in projects all over the island, beach side apartments and condominiums are in constant demand. This ever increasing demand is providing a good investment platform as those investing here can be sure of capital appreciation but in the meantime can enjoy the benefits of an ever improving rental market.”

The Dominican Republic is a land of contrasts; it has alpine landscapes, brown rivers, white water rapids, rain forests and indigenous species from crocodiles to the green cockatoo. It boasts 869 miles of beaches and benefits from its own distinct cuisine and cultural heritage. With so much to offer it is not surprising that the Dominican Republic has now become one of the best investment opportunities in the Caribbean if not in the world.

IMOINVEST now bring to the market Las Olas. Ideally located, just minutes from the international airport and enjoying a premier front line position in Juan Dolio. Las Olas offers two and three bedroom apartments built to the highest standards and offering spacious open plan accommodation. The overriding benefit of investing here is that all owners receive membership to the Metro Country Club which offers unparalleled amenities; swimming pools, championship golf, restaurants, discothèque, shopping centre, cinema and 24 hour security to name but a few.

Andrea continues, “Las Olas offers investors the chance to own in new community where every amenity is on your doorstep. Its location is picture postcard and ideal for water sports and with the added bonus of the Metro Club those that invest here can be assured of a first rate holiday resort.”

Prices start from £137,394 for a two bedroom apartment rising up to £242,159 and above for deluxe three bedrooms. Rental is guaranteed for the first year at a minimum of £650 and expected current rents after will be in the region of £970 per month.

www.imoinvest.com

Afford Granada

2006-07-20T15:53:00.000+01:00

Granada is truly a breathtaking city, the jewel in Andalusia’s crown, boasting such treasures as the Moorish palace of the Alhambra. The city is set at the foot of Spain’s highest mountain range and best ski resort, Sierra Nevada. Basking under sunny skies yet just moments from the ski slopes, easily accessible by low cost airlines to Granada’s Airport (look to Ryan Air, Monarch, Iberia from London) and just over an hour from sandy beaches, Granada is perfectly placed for both living and holidays. Whether your passion is for sea or ski, you can comfortably satisfy both by taking to the beach in the morning and sloping off to the snow by the afternoon…

Dream Homes WorldWide is living up to its name and offering some dream homes in Granada. ‘Dream’ due to rental potential (tourists, students, golfers and skiers over the five month ski season), capital appreciation estimated at 14 % per annum and the finest in qualities and facilities to match the unparalleled location.

Medina Fairways within Medina Elvira Golf Resort is a select development of apartments, penthouses and lofts ranging between one and four bedrooms in a superb lakeside setting just ten minutes from the centre of Granada and 25 minutes from Sierra Nevada. Residents have the luxury of 18-holes of championship standard golf on their doorstep, plus the Resort’s boutique hotel and spa, horse riding centre, shopping arcade, sports centre, lakeside activities, private school and on-site property management, all protected by 24-hour security.

Medina Fairways is unmatched in terms of views. Each of the 186 units enjoy either golf, panoramic lake or inspiring Sierra Nevada views, or indeed a combination of the three. All properties have top of the range fittings and finishings such as satellite TV and ADSL lines, natural stone walk-in showers, wooden floors in all bedrooms and underfloor heating in all bathrooms. Parking and storage are included, and residents have the use of a bright gymnasium with Scandinavian sauna and spacious swimming pool set in landscaped gardens.

One bedroom apartments start from just 183,400 euros and a 5% guaranteed rental yield is offered over a two, five or ten year period. Favourable payment terms with 80% of the purchase price payable upon completion towards the end of 2008.

Dream Homes Worldwide can be contacted on UK freephone 08000 193 847
Tel: 00 34 952 908 803
Email: enquiry@dreamhomesww.com

www.dreamhomesww.com

Jump On The Property Ladder With Bulgaria Forever - Homes Start From £16,157

2006-07-20T12:00:00.000+01:00

The continued growth in the UK property market is making it harder and harder for first time buyers to get on the property ladder. Figures from the property website Hometrack show that the housing market has risen by 2.9% over the first half of 2006 and is set to continue climbing over the next six months.

However overseas property company Bulgaria Forever is offering buyers a helping hand with a selection of affordable apartments in Bulgaria, a country that is considered to be the fastest growing and best investment holiday destination in Europe. Visit www.bulgariaforever.co.uk and choose from a vast selection of low priced properties, catering for every taste and every pocket. Here are some examples of properties available:

Flores Park, Sunny Beach (£16,157.00)
The complex is located right down town of the biggest and most prestigious resort of the Southern Black Sea coast Sunny Beach. It is walking distance from the beach and about 2km away from Nessebar. Nessebar is a city with ancient history, unique architectural heritage and incomparable atmosphere.

Northern Star, Bansko (From £19,453.00)
Northern Star apartment house is a charming apartment complex, built in traditional Bulgarian architecture style typical of the area. Situated 160 km from Sofia and a mere 100m from the main Gondola.

Chalet Ku-Ku Riak, Bansko (£23,209.00)
The Chalet Ku-Ku-Riak complex is a blossoming flower nestling in the landscape in the south-east corner of the town. A traditional development named after a rare mountain winter bloom which signifies the serenity of the spirit and the dream of adventure..
Bulgaria continues to be popular with overseas buyers with real estate prices rising as much as 50% in the past year. Popular areas have been the capital Sofia as well as Black Sea beach resorts of Sunny Beach and ski resort of Bansko. The investment trend is set to continue with the main predicted growth being realised after the granting of full EUC membership scheduled for 2007/2008.

Buyers looking to let their properties can take advantage of Bulgaria Forever’s exclusive partnership with Balkan Holiday Real Estate Ltd, allowing clients to benefit from over 40 years expertise Balkan Holidays has as a tour operator in the region. Bulgaria Forever offers clients a full and experienced service from the initial property search, throughout the purchasing process as well as and offering a programme to rent the property out once purchased. The tie up with Balkan Holidays enables owners the opportunity to get the best possible return on investment.

For further information on Bulgaria Forever contact 01277 725131

www.bulgariaforever.com

David Payne Offers Victorian Living With Contemporary Style

2006-07-20T11:48:00.000+01:00

David Payne Homes is offering potential buyers the opportunity to purchase unique apartments with Victorian character and contemporary style as it unveils its latest development in Malvern.

Springfield Lodge, conveniently located on Graham Road, is built of natural stone and has original period features including fireplaces, staircase and covings. Five apartments, each with their own unique style and design, will be created from the 140 year old building.

As with all David Payne properties, the one bedroom Townsend and Nimrod and the two bedroom Lygon, Nevinson and Dorabella will be finished to David Payne’s superior specification with outstanding attention to detail.

Starting from £159,000 each apartment comes with a fully fitted kitchen incorporating an electric double oven with gas hob and integrated fridge freezer, dishwasher and washer dryer.

The building has a high security feature front entrance door and each property has a ten year NHBC warranty and parking provision.

In addition to the five select apartments housed in the existing property, David Payne will also be offering a selection of brand new apartments adjacent to the building. Springfield Gardens is a collection of eight luxury two bedroom properties starting from £165,000.

Conveniently located within walking distance from the town centre with its theatre, array of pubs and restaurants, Springfield Lodge & Gardens is also ideal for those who enjoy being close to nature as the Malvern Hills can be reached in minutes.

Great Malvern train station offers direct links to Birmingham, Worcester and Hereford and the nearby A449, A38 and M5 are ideal for commuters.

Commenting on the latest David Payne development, sales manager, Karen McVey, says: “Springfield Lodge is superbly situated close to the town centre and offers buyers a rare opportunity to purchase an apartment built to a high specification with both history and character.”

The marketing suite opens this Saturday and can be contacted for further information on the one and two bedroom apartments at Springfield Lodge & Gardens. Call 01684 893158 or visit us from 12.00pm – 5.00pm Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday).

Achieving Planning Permission

2006-07-19T22:43:00.000+01:00

According to The Weston Group, achieving planning permission for new homes is becoming an increasingly long and drawn out process, particularly in the South East.

The Essex based company which is currently waiting on planning approval for the development of 18 new schemes across Essex and the Home Counties, resulting in almost 2,000 new homes, is experiencing a series of delays which not only have an impact on the company but also on local areas and communities surrounding these new developments.

Weston Group highlights that in October 2005 The London Thames Gateway Development Corporation (LTGDC) took power over planning applications. The corporation has the power to determine planning applications relating to developments within the London Thames Gateway area. However, it seems that no planning applications have been passed and won’t be until October 2006.

Robert Weston, Chairman of the Weston Group comments: “The reality of the current planning system means that the whole process takes a lot longer than it should. If the councils were rewarded on the number of successful applications, more development would be done quicker, even if it was just outside of the 13 week consultation period given by the government.”

Weston Group highlights that current council guidelines under the planning delivery grant system give local council planning department’s extra financial incentives for processing a certain number of minor and major applications in 8 and 13 week time periods respectively. As long as an application has a decision within these time frames, the council will receive their grants.

Weston Group stresses that this system results in some local councils in the South East processing the 8-week applications first in order to achieve their targets. Their attention is only then turned to the 13-week plans. However, too much time has then elapsed out of the 13-week consultation period and planning departments don’t have time to re-consult on any part of a developer’s application. If fault is found, and no time is available to make amends, developers are then given two options. They can withdraw their applications or the council can automatically reject the application.

Weston reveals that under the current systems a given council will still receive its funding because a decision has been reached, but this leaves a developer who has submitted a planning application with a limited number of options, neither of which will result in a faster planning approval. National Government approves of this system, and stresses that the developer benefits from immediate refusal, as they are then informed on what is insufficient in the application.

Sabre Developments Unveils Charters, The Iconic 1930s Country Mansion, And Commences Marketing Of Luxury High-Tech Apartments

2006-07-19T16:39:00.000+01:00

The first stage of marketing is underway at Charters, the iconic 1930s Grade II listed mansion house in Berkshire where 34 luxury apartments are being created by Sabre Developments.

Described as the last of the great country houses to be built in England and used as a country bolthole by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (“Edward and Mrs Simpson”) in 1947, this is the first time in 45 years that Charters has opened its doors to potential residents.

Set amid 25 acres of secluded parkland, Charters offers the latest in style, security, luxury and ‘slave-time,’ technology, together with the service, security and peace-of-mind associated with bygone living. It is being restored and refurbished to provide a variety of 34 individually-fashioned, two and three-bedroom apartments which will range in size from 1,400 sq ft to 3,500 sq ft. Prices will range between £1 and £3 million

Six of the new apartments are being crafted from the original Art Deco residence, to be known as the Mansion House, designed by Adie Button and Partners in 1936. Two newly built blocks, reminiscent of the original Mansion House will each provide another 14 apartments. These buildings will be known as The Court and The Garden House. A key feature of the Mansion House façade is the original bronze paned windows which extend all the way around the building, creating a panoramic view. This distinctive style will be recreated in both The Court and The Garden House.

Michael Ball, Director at appointed agents, FPD Savills, says: “Charters presents a unique opportunity for residents who want a prestigious ‘lock-up and go’ home which allows owners to come and go as they please. For empty-nesters desperate to downsize and throw off the burdensome responsibilities of managing a larger family house or estate; for high-flying international professionals, endlessly juggling the ‘cash-rich, time-poor’ conundrum; for those sporting buffs who just cannot bear to be away from the turf; or for the savvy investor who wants a piece of the investment action now to enjoy on a more personal level at a later date; Charters just cannot be beaten.”

Apartments at Charters range in style from single-floor units to duplexes and penthouses – some with direct access onto private sun terraces. Natural materials of the highest quality, such has Portland stone, glass, marble and hard woods are being used to emulate the building’s original 1930s style and ensure the lasting beauty and functionality of the residence. Interior design packages are available for those buyers wishing to customise the style of their new personal space. John Morris, Principal at Sabre Developments says: “There is nothing ordinary about Charters. We know how people aspire to live so we are making it possible through an exceptional level of refurbishment. Charters is all about finding a way to live, not a place to live - it fulfils the dream of getting the very best out of life.”

One of the best kept secrets in the listed residential property market, the redeveloped Charters has been architect designed and project managed by MMDS. Interior design has been conceived by Guildford-based Simmons Associates. John Morris concluded: “The success of this team comes down to the lasting quality of their designs and their ability to steer away from transient trends or industry gimmicks.”

“Projects as exceptional as Charters are few and far between: together we are working to make it the finest mansion house conversion in Berkshire and one of the country’s leading residences.”

www.chartersuk.com

More Development To Occur In Denbigh West Area

2006-07-19T15:45:00.000+01:00

Commercial property expert, Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has sold the former Associated Octel site in Bletchley to the Chancerygate for £4,275,000.

LSH were instructed less than six months ago to market and collate informal tenders on the six and half acre site, by petroleum additives and speciality chemicals producer, Octel, who are now known as Innospec Limited. 14 strong tenders were submitted for the site.

Chancery Group is currently applying for planning to construct 153,000 sq ft of 1,000 sq ft to 5,5000 sq ft industrial units on the site.

The site is located on the established Denbigh West employment area, one of the original industrial estates within Bletchley. The site has a prominent frontage onto Denbigh Road and is then in turn highly visible from Watling Street (V4). The site is prominently placed in close proximity to the new IKEA and Asda retail sites.

A significant amount of development has occurred in this area over the last few years. Most recently the former Wincanton site was sold for £5.5 million to property developer, Kenmore, £1 million greater than the asking price.

LSH acted on behalf of the previous owner of the Wincanton site in the sale. Wincanton previously used the site for the storage and distribution of chilled goods.

Paul White of LSH explains, “The popularity of the Denbigh West area is greatly increasing and as result potential development sites are quickly being acquired. ”

Charlie Withers, Director at Chancerygate concluded, “This is the ninth site we have purchased this year and adds to our portfolio of 32 other CBC’s around the UK. The excellent position of this site within Milton Keynes gives us every confidence in achieving early sales."

New Broker Service For The Cheshire

2006-07-19T11:38:00.000+01:00

In a drive to broaden its services, the Cheshire Building Society has launched a new subsidiary company Cheshire Mortgage Brokers this month.

With specialist knowledge of the mortgage market, in addition to offering Cheshire Building Society products, the service will provide personalised advice and guidance on all mortgages available in the market. Cheshire Mortgage Brokers will also provide advice on general insurance and associated protection products.

Jason Gaunt, Marketing Director at Cheshire Building Society comments: “This new broker company is a valuable addition to the Cheshire Group, offering customers a one-stop-shop when buying and selling their homes. By identifying the most suitable mortgages in the market, we aim to save buyers both time and money during what can be a very busy and stressful time in their lives.”

For more information about this new telephone-based service, please call 0845 634 6200. The service is available from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9:00 am to 12:45 pm on Saturdays.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

For mortgages we can be paid commission and/or a fee of usually 1% of the loan amount.

Need A Plumber? You May Have To Call Australia…

2006-07-18T23:36:00.000+01:00

– Over half of people emigrating from the UK are skilled trade workers.
– Plumbers/gasfitters are the top professions leaving the country.
– Australia is actively luring away our UK trades people.
– 1.37m tradesmen could have left the UK by 2016.**
– People move abroad to get more for their money but currency fluctuations can have a huge impact on your future wealth.

Britain's vital tradesmen and women are leaving the country in droves according to new research from HiFX, the currency specialists. Over half (51%) of Brits emigrating are classified as working in skilled trade occupations. Plumbers and gas fitters are most likely to use their trade to escape the UK, hotly followed by carpenters and joiners, reveals HiFX, who help 7000 people emigrate each year.

Skilled trade occupations* include electricians, mechanics, bricklayers and chefs all of whom feature in HiFX's top ten professions to emigrate. This mass exodus of skilled workers could have a huge impact on those of us left in the UK, with 1.37 million tradesmen predicted to have emigrated by 2016**. However with the increasingly stressful lifestyles of many UK workers it is no surprise that many are looking to move overseas to start a new life.

Upping sticks and settling in sunnier climes is not just a pipe dream for plumbers and gasfitters. Australia, for example, is actively attracting our skilled workers by giving them maximum points in their points by profession vetting system. Carpenters, electricians and nurses score the maximum 60 points.

Following skilled trades occupations, professionals and managers and senior officials are most likely to emigrate, but with just 10% of enquiries coming from each of these sectors it is clear that skilled workers are the most fed up with the UK.

Mark Bodega, Marketing Director for HiFX, the currency specialists comments: "Australia, New Zealand and Canada are facing a shortage of home grown skilled workers so they are marketing themselves as attractive propositions to UK workers who may be looking for a better work/life balance and an escape from the sky high property prices of the UK.

"However moving your entire life to a completely different country is a huge financial decision, and one that should not be taken lightly. At some stage in the emigration process you will need to convert some or all of your assets into the local currency of your new country. Your future wealth will be directly affected by the timing of this currency transaction but all too often people simply don't plan ahead or place nearly enough importance on this.

"Naturally, if Sterling strengthens between your visa being granted and you physically moving, you will be able to buy more with your money when you reach your new country. Conversely, if Sterling weakens; you will have less buying power in your new country. Our aim is to work out a strategy for your currency requirements and educate you as much as possible in the currency you are purchasing." says Bodega.

For Brits who live overseas or go abroad for long periods of time, HiFX has a regular payments plan allowing them to manage regular currency payments such as pensions, salary and mortgage transfers and because HiFX do not charge to send money overseas and have eliminated all receiving charges, they save their customers up to £300 each year.

HiFX's regular payment plan also protects people against currency fluctuations, by fixing exchange rates for between six and twenty four months ahead, ensuring the same amount is debited or paid in each month and because everything is fully automated via a direct debit, customers have no need to speak to their bank each month.

For further information on HiFX and its products and services
Please call 01753 751 776 or visit www.hifx.co.uk

Move In For £99! - Countryside Properties Helps First Time Buyers Onto The Property Ladder

2006-07-18T22:33:00.000+01:00

A recent survey¹ has indicated that it now takes first time buyers as long as six years to save up for the deposit required to take their first step onto the property ladder. Over a third of these potential first time buyers want to buy within the next year (2007), but only 5% are confident that they will be able to do so. The average house deposit currently stands at £16, 000, an amount most of these potential first timers simply cannot afford.

Countryside Properties, ever responsive to the needs of its purchasers and the evolving property market, has launched a ‘Move in for £99’ scheme at Eclipse, its development on Panfield Lane, in Braintree, Essex, to help combat the first time buyer crisis.

Subject to terms and conditions, homebuyers can take advantage of stamp duty paid, deposit paid and legal and survey fees paid on the contemporary two bedroom apartments at Eclipse. This makes a saving of over £10, 000.

Yvonne Hudson-Green, Sales and Marketing Director for Countryside Properties, says: “Over recent years with the rapid increase of house prices and interest rates, it has become increasingly difficult and expensive to get onto the property ladder. Saving money for the deposit, legal fees and stamp duty is the part that many struggle with, and at Eclipse we are taking away this expense. All buyers need to put down before they move in is £99! We now actually only have six apartments remaining under this scheme, so this new initiative is proving extremely successful.”

¹Council of Mortgage Lenders and Market Place Survey

Yvonne continues: “The two bedroom apartments at Eclipse are extremely spacious and offer a high level of specification so I would urge all first time buyers in and around Braintree to move fast before they miss out!”

Eclipse is a collection of 62 homes comprising 38 houses in three different designs, and 24 two bedroom apartments with four layouts to choose from. The homes include contemporary interiors with features such as stainless steel appliances and under pelmet lighting in the kitchen, and striking white sanitaryware by Porcelanosa and Kaldewei in the bathrooms.

Braintree station is a mile from Eclipse, and London Liverpool Street can be reached in just over an hour. The new A120 provides fast and efficient access to Stansted Airport, with London’s West End easily reached via the M11 and M25.

A new show apartment is now open for viewing. Prices start from just £149,950 for a two bedroom apartment.
For further information telephone 01376 552164, or visit the website at www.homes-at-eclipse.co.uk

South African Property Bargains As SA Rand Goes On Roller Coaster, Says Moneycorp

2006-07-18T22:31:00.000+01:00

* Gold price volatility playing havoc with SA Rand
* Bargains for canny investors who get the timing right
* Currency exchange the key to getting more for your money

VOLATILITY in the South African Rand (SA Rand) means that canny buyers can strike it lucky on sought after property in the country – if they get the timing right.

British buyers using Sterling can save thousands of pounds on investment or second homes in the sunshine destination, says currency exchange specialist Moneycorp, due to the Rand’s dramatic fluctuations in the past 12 months.

As the currency is primarily linked to the fortunes of the gold market – along with platinum, gold is the country’s biggest export – timing of the money transfer is crucial for potential buyers.

“In June of this year the Rand reached 13.71 against sterling, the peak of its 12 month cycle,” says Moneycorp’s Stuart Rogers.

“But back in February it was worth just 10.40 to the pound. So for example, had you decided to trade £250,000 for Rand to buy a property earlier in the year, you would have been able to afford a home valued at 2.6 million SA Rand. But had you waited until June, that same £250,000 would have bought you a home worth 3.4 million SA Rand – an enormous difference,” argues Rogers.

Other reasons for the Rand’s particularly bumpy ride this year has been the rise in US base rates, and the threat of interest rate rises within the Eurozone.

But with gold prices see-sawing from $700 an ounce to just $560 per ounce over the course of this year, the movement of this commodity is always going to have a major impact on the Rand’s stability.

“Effectively, it means that making the switch from Sterling to Rand at the right time will buy you more, and with the South African government keen to open up its property market to foreign investors, there has rarely been a better time to buy,” adds Rogers.

For property investors, the continuing domestic trend in South Africa for local people to want to get into the domestic property market is also encouraging – it means that reselling in the longer term is going to be very attractive.

About 4,000 British citizens move to South Africa each year. In the past five years, South African property prices have risen by an average of 20% a year, but there are still bargains to be found.

Around £140,000 buys a four-bedroom house with a large swimming pool near the Cape Town vineyards, boasting year-round sunshine and a very high standard of living for much lower costs.

As well as Cape Town, current hotspots for British buyers include the sub- tropical coast of KwaZulu Natal, north of Durban

But while there may be plenty of bargain homes to be picked up, Moneycorp warns buyers that estate agents’ fees are very high - between 6% and 7% of the value of the property, compared with 1% to 2% in the UK.

South African mortgage rates are also much higher – typically at around 8.5% compared with around 4.5 – 5% over here.

Moneycorp offers potential buyers more cost effective transfers, faster fund transfer times compared to the high street banks, along with in-depth guidance as to currency values and the best time to transfer money. Moneycorp also offers a Regular Payment Plan, which enables investors to send regular overseas transfers, such as mortgage payments, at a fraction of the normal banking costs.

Contact Moneycorp, the foreign exchange specialist on 0800 587 5117 or visit www.moneycorp.com

Regent Quarter - Kick-Starting The Social, Economic And Cultural Changes In King’s Cross

2006-07-18T21:34:00.000+01:00

Regent Quarter, King’s Cross, London, N1.

In early 2002, P&O Estates won consent to regenerate a 5.8 acre (2.35 ha) site opposite King’s Cross station. The site was to become known as Regent Quarter and its development has been credited with kick-starting the social, economic and cultural changes now so apparent in King’s Cross.

The Regent Quarter scheme is a classic example of mixed-use urban regeneration, with an estimated final development value in excess of £150 million, offering a range of refurbished and newly built architect-designed homes. The development provides 630,000 sq ft integrated space, including luxury flats, courtyard apartments, stylish lofts and affordable housing; as well as offices, shops, bars, restaurants, leisure facilities, an art gallery, a supermarket and a hotel. There are also public realm improvements in the form of new public routes through the blocks, three new urban courtyards, public art and landscaping. Victorian buildings of historic interest have been sensitively refurbished and combined with modern architecture and stylish design elements.

Location:
Regent Quarter boasts unrivalled transport links, which are set to improve yet further in 2007, when CTRL’s high-speed rail services from King’s Cross St Pancras to Paris and Brussels are set to make Europe a mere two hour journey away. But despite its proximity to one of the capital’s busiest transport hubs, Regent Quarter offers pleasant and secluded environment, where traditional cobbled courtyards provide sanctuary from the mayhem of city life.

Changing face of King’s Cross:
King’s Cross is undergoing massive change; however with so many projects in the area taking 20 or 30 years to get off the drawing board, Regent Quarter is the forerunner and the one place where things are really happening. Following in the wake of Regent Quarter, other developments are now advancing in the area.

Kings Cross has historically been associated with crime, particularly the drugs trade and prostitution. Regent Quarter has brought with it improvements to traffic flow and pedestrian walkways, already making the area more safe, inviting and user-friendly.

To quote Sir Bob Reid, Chairman of the Kings Cross Partnership:
“Social regeneration is absolutely vital to the success of urban regeneration and, with the development of Regent Quarter, we have the first notion of how welcoming a place King’s Cross will be. Regent Quarter is reassurance to people that change is actually happening – now.”

Style:
Regent Quarter successfully blends the most modern, with the retention and refurbishment of some of the original 1860s former brassworks, foundries, copperworks and ironworks of the Industrial Revolution. These historic Victorian buildings have been carefully preserved and integrated into the scheme as apartments, offices and a gallery.

Residential:
At Regent Quarter the residential units range from one-bedroom apartments to town houses, offering dynamic urban living at its best. Many of them reflect the area’s industrial past, retaining original features such as cast iron columns, arched windows, exposed brickwork and beams, while being refurbished to the very highest standards for 21st century London living. Unique design features such as balconies, terraces and large-sized pane windows which allow natural light to flood in.

All homes are architect designed and feature high-quality interiors incorporating natural wood and stone floorings; high-spec kitchens with built-in stainless steel appliances and quartz stone work surfaces; pure wool carpets in the bedrooms; recessed lighting and quality bathrooms with NHBC Buildmark Guarantee.

Residential Sales: Savills (Viewing by appointment only)
Tel: 0870 240 4227
Email: ressales@regentquarter.com.

Commercial:
More than 150,000 sq ft of offices at Regent Quarter are being developed speculatively.
Block C contains four major office buildings, including ‘The Brassworks’ which has recently been sold to architect firm YRM. King’s Cross is establishing itself as a quarter for arts and culture, and many firms in the arts and media are congregating here, including the Guardian Media Group, which is to relocate to a site adjacent to Regent Quarter by 2008.

Commercial Agent: DE & J LEVY
Dukes Court, 32 Duke Street, St James's, London SW1Y 6DF
Tel: 020 7930 1070
Email: regentquarter@dejlevy.co.uk

Retail and Leisure Agent: Gooch, Cunliffe & Whale
Telephone: 020 7408 0030

www.regentquarter.com

New Chapter For Historic Reading Rooms As Children’s Author Heads West

2006-07-18T17:30:00.000+01:00

Bob the Builder designer, Curtis Jobling, is to leave his historic North Yorkshire home for pastures new.

The Reading Rooms at Carlton Husthwaite, 14 miles north of York, has for the past four years provided him with inspiration in his work as a children’s book author and illustrator.

“It’s with great regret that we’re leaving. The Reading Rooms has been the centre of my home and work life, as I’ve designed countless episodes of Bob and written a great many children’s stories there too. I’d always lived in towns and cities until I came to North Yorkshire but the whole family fell in love with the house and village and it was sort of prophetic that as a children’s author I should end up living in a former reading room,” said Curtis.

“We’re having to move to the North West because my children’s book, “Frankenstein’s Cat”, is being made into a TV series by the BBC in Manchester, so it makes sense to be there,” added Curtis. “It’s great news because I’m making my new show, but sad news that we have to leave such a wonderful house and setting. We’ll take many happy memories with us though!”

The three bedroom house which overlooks the village green was built as a church reading room in 1902 and later became the village hall.

Complete with stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings and other original features the Reading Rooms is on the market for £275,000.

Andy Galloway, manager of the Easingwold office of Hunters Property Group which is marketing the property, said: “We do get unusual houses to sell from time to time but this one has a special place in the collective memory of the village. Older residents can remember coming here when they were children and sitting on their grandfathers’ knees as they read the Sunday papers.

It’s a really special family home that’s always been at the very heart of the village”.

Frankenstein’s Cat will be shown by the BBC in Autumn 2007 and will feature the voice of Joe Pasquale.

Home Is Where The Pride Is For Lewisham Builder Celebrating Double Victory

2006-07-18T14:28:00.000+01:00

A Lewisham builder is celebrating after a housing development he manages – and lives at – scooped one of the most prestigious awards in the house-building industry for the second year in a row.

Mike Ellis, project manager at the Meridian South development in Hither Green, Lewisham, has won a National House Building Council 'Pride in the Job' quality award, an accolade given to the UK's best site managers for creating quality, beautifully finished homes.

The £100 million redevelopment of the former Hither Green Hospital at Hither Green Lane, set south of Greenwich on the meridian line, includes 544 apartments, set across 8 apartment buildings ranging in height from 3 – 6 storeys.

Mike, 60, has managed the project for the past three years, and impressed with the quality and value of the homes on offer, decided to snap up an apartment on the site himself 18 months ago.

He explained:

“Having spent 41 years in the construction industry, I was delighted to win this award for the second time.

“When a team is recognised for hard work and effort it creates an enormous sense of achievement. For people considering buying one of our homes it as a real sign of a quality product and shows that our team is always striving to exceed expectations.

Mike, who originally hails from Luton in Bedfordshire and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Builders, continued:

“I think it says everything that having been put on this project it didn’t take me long to fall in love with the development and buy a home of my own here, so this award means that much extra to me.

“It feels great to be a real part of the regeneration of Lewisham and with the Olympics coming up there’s a real buzz about the area and the many opportunities that will open up. I hope to use my experience to help the next generation of young project managers become real leaders in the regeneration of the area.”

With the number of single person households in Lewisham projected to grow to 42,000 by 2016¹, accounting for just over 1 in 3 households and a growth in the demand for apartments generally, the Meridian South development works towards meeting the housing requirement of the community, while aiding the urban regeneration of the area.

The central point of the scheme is a pedestrian piazza and amenities include a supermarket, restaurant and a leisure centre.

The Historic Quarter includes a Victorian water tower that will be used as a management office and exhibition venue for local history. Bellway has commissioned a local artist to produce a piece of art to celebrate the Greenwich Meridian Line. The quarter also includes 4 former hospital buildings, which Bellway has converted and refurbished. One is a working GP surgery, another a nursery and two have been converted into live-work units.

Palvinder Thandi, Sales Director of Bellway South East, said:

“We are delighted that Meridian South has been recognised by the industry for the quality of the homes on offer, and are particularly pleased for Mike and his team as they put 110% into their work and deserve recognition for that. We are very proud of the village environment we have created here, and pride ourselves on the attention to detail afforded every home on site.”

Prices range from £193,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment to £234,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment, and all apartments include secure underground parking. The sales office is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm when a sales advisor can be contacted on 0845 071 2085. Alternatively visit www.bellway.co.uk and click on ‘South East’.

KFH Fully Supports Official Regulation For Estate Agents

2006-07-14T11:25:00.000+01:00

Leading estate agent responds to government’s Ombudsman scheme for estate agents

Lee Watts, managing director of London estate agent Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, today welcomes the Government’s announcement for a mandatory regulatory body for the 12,000 estate agents in England.

Responding to an interview with trade minister Ian McCartney in Property Week, which announced a new Consumer Bill to enable trading standards officers to investigate malpractice and remove agents from the business, Mr Watts says:

“A mandatory regulatory body for estate agents in England is long over due and I fully support and welcome this initiative. I firmly believe that an Ombudsman scheme will serve to protect the consumer from unscrupulous behaviour from agents and furthermore, I believe that it will help to create a more positive image for the estate agency industry as a whole.”

In previous attempts to bring regulation to the industry, the Government has been accused of not introducing a strict enough regime for agents.

Mr Watts continues: “I hope that this bill goes far enough to help clean up the industry and I look forward to seeing the detail.”

Pirates Of The Caribbean Highlights The Paradise Islands Of The Exumas

2006-07-13T20:20:00.000+01:00

Movie goers are currently being thrilled by the antics of Jack Sparrow and crew in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, but are also being bowled over by the pristine white beaches and turquoise waters that form the backdrop to his adventures, many of which were filmed in The Exumas, an unspoilt string of coral cays in The Bahamas.

So it is perfect timing for Black Pearl Ventures, which is marketing a slice of paradise in the shape of February Point on Great Exuma. This exclusive residential resort not only provides a holiday home, but also a sound property investment. According to The Wall Street Journal (March 2006) “home prices have as much as quadrupled in the past two years on the lesser-known and more remote Caribbean islands”.

And whilst Johnny Depp (aka Jack Sparrow) was so impressed with The Exumas that he bought his own island, for lesser mortals Black Pearl Ventures is promoting the latest travel trends, fractional ownership, whereby purchasers buy a percentage of the property. Each investor is entitled to deeded ownership for a certain number of weeks per year, for the rest of his or her life, with the ability to transfer those rights to their children. Maintenance fees are shared by all those who invest in the property and, as with any property investment, purchasers also share in the appreciation of the villa.

The added bonus of fractional ownership at a resort such as February Point is the extra amenities that would not necessarily come hand in hand with a holiday home purchase. Highlights at February Point include private docks for each villa, a fully-rigged 26’ twin-engine power catamaran, a golf cart to get around the resort and facilities such as tennis courts, infinity pool and water sports.

Black Pearl Ventures, which is named after the ship in the first Pirates of the Caribbean film, was set up by the British-born Guy Newman specifically to promote property investment in the Exumas. Guy has witnessed the steady increase in the real estate business in The Exumas since the 1970s and possesses intimate knowledge of the islands.

Full details of what Black Pearl Ventures has to offer can be found at www.blackpearlventures.com.

Advice For Avoiding Skin Cancer In Summer

2006-07-13T17:43:00.000+01:00

As temperatures continue to soar this summer, NHBC is supporting Cancer Research UK's Sunsmart campaign, to raise the profile of skin cancer awareness for everyone working outdoors.

Skin cancer has become the most common cancer in the UK with over 3,400 men diagnosed with malignant melanoma each year. As the rates continue to rise, NHBC wants to raise awareness of the disease to everyone working outdoors this summer, whether you're tackling the overgrown jungle where the garden used to be, cleaning out gutters following the recent downpours or just sprucing up the exterior of your home.

Simon Mantle, Health and Safety Services Manager at NHBC, said: "Outdoor workers receive three to four times more sun exposure than those working indoors but are often unaware of the dangers or the precautions they should be taking. The campaign is designed to help people working outdoors to be safe in the sun and to watch out for signs of over exposure in themselves, their family and friends."

The effects of the sun can be felt by everyone but some groups of people are at greater risk due to their skin colouring or age. Those with light coloured hair and eyes or those with moles or freckles are at the greatest risk. It is important that people working outdoors keep an eye on those who may be at the greatest risk.

"The rise in skin cancer rates throughout the UK is a major concern," said Simon, "It is important that people are aware of the dangers and take the necessary precautions when working outside and ensure that they limit exposure and wear suitable clothing."

Sun damage can be prevented through a number of simple measures, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and full length trousers and applying a high factor sun cream which can help prevent many of the harmful UV rays from getting through. If you are working outside for a length of time consider wearing a cap, one with a flap to protect the neck from exposure is particularly useful as this as a sensitive area which is often overlooked.

Wherever you are working outdoors other, basic, safety precautions should always be taken such as:

• Ensure all electrical equipment such as mowers and hedge trimmers are connected through a safety cut-out switch - known as an residual current device (RCD) - which will stop the power supply in case a power cord gets cut.

• If you are working on ladders make sure they are on a firm footing and secured at the top and bottom if you are working on gutters, for example.
Wherever possible have someone steadying the base of the ladder. Never lean out away from the ladder as this can mean you over-balance - even falls from as low as one metre can have serious consequences.

• Wear the right protective clothing - if you are working in the garden make sure you have a pair of sturdy gardening gloves and use garden implements with care. Always store garden equipment away safely when not in use to prevent trips and falls.

• If you are wearing loose clothing in the heat make sure this does not get in the way and take particular care to make sure it cannot snag or catch on anything such as hedges or guttering.

“La Caixa” Offers Exclusive Mortgage Deal To Homebuyers Looking For A Place In The Sun

2006-07-13T17:18:00.000+01:00

Taylor Woodrow de España has joined forces with “la Caixa”, one of Spain’s leading financial services groups, to offer homebuyers an attractive interest rate on Spanish properties. Available exclusively to Taylor Woodrow de España’s customers, this low rate offer means that owning a home in Spain is more affordable than ever before.

Lisa Griffiths, European sales and marketing manager for Taylor Woodrow de España, said: “We recognise that buying a property abroad can be a daunting prospect with many families ruling the idea out due to cost. This great offer will allow purchasers, of all ages, to realise their dream of a home in the sun.

“The process is simple. Our team in the UK and in Spain guide homebuyers through the entire process - from the lifestyle visit to view the properties, through to helping customers settle in to their new home. Buying a home in Spain is easier than some might think.”

Alvaro Valera, Director for “la Caixa”, said: “This mortgage offer has excellent terms and conditions and has been agreed exclusively for Taylor Woodrow customers. It is by far the best available on the market for non residents in Spain and we believe it is an appealing incentive for anyone thinking of buying a home in the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca or Mallorca.”

Taylor Woodrow de España is the only UK-based developer operating in Spain and has been building homes in the region for over 45 years. The company provides a specialised service and dedicated team who can help and advise customers through the entire process of choosing, buying and settling into a new Spanish home.

Taylor Woodrow de España currently offers homes on the Spanish mainland at the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and on the Balearic Island of Mallorca. For further details telephone the UK sales office on 0121 600 8961 or go to www.taylorwoodrow.com/spain. Alternatively, call the brochure hotline on 0845 450 1555.

Invest In The Best! Guaranteed Rental Yields At NU Centrale

2006-07-13T11:16:00.000+01:00

Countryside Properties is calling all investors to NU Centrale, its new city centre development in the heart of Norwich.

This leading developer is offering guaranteed rental yields of 5.38% per annum for the first two years* on its contemporary one and two bedroom apartments.

Yvonne Hudson-Green, Sales and Marketing Director for Countryside Properties, says: “This is a not-to-be-missed offer for investors. We will guarantee to pay the rent on the apartment for the first two years. This offers complete peace of mind to investors, they don’t have to worry about a thing and can just sit back and reap the monthly rewards.”

She continues: “The apartments at NU Centrale offer the perfect investment opportunity. The apartments are attractive and highly specified, close to local amenities and transport links, and all apartments include their own secure parking facilities. They have great rental appeal.”

Nu Centrale is a development of 98 one and two bedroom apartments for sale, with an additional 32 affordable properties.

Each apartment at NU Centrale has been carefully designed and offers spacious and flexible accommodation. Many have open plan kitchen/living/dining rooms and master bedrooms with built-in wardrobes. Other features include French doors that open out to the gardens bringing the outside in, en-suite bathrooms and fully fitted kitchens with integrated ceramic hob, concealed cooker hood, dishwasher and fridge freezer.

A select number of apartments even have their own garden, a highly unusual feature for a brand new apartment in the city centre.

Located on Greyfriars Road in the city centre, Nu Centrale is within walking distance of Tomblands, the theatres, restaurants and retail district.

Prices for a one bedroom apartment at Nu Centrale start from £144,950. For further information on the homes, please visit the marketing suite on Greyfriars Road or call 0845 071 2064 or visit www.nucentrale.com

Part Of Beatrix Potter’s Former Estate Up For Sale

2006-07-13T11:07:00.000+01:00

Carter Jonas’ Kendal office has begun marketing approximately 130-acres of some of the most famous scenic landscape in England, occupying the north eastern slopes of the Tarn Hows Basin in Cumbria.

The ‘Torver and Arnside Intakes’, part of the Lake District’s Borwick Fell, are the last remaining parts of a substantial sporting estate that was assembled by the present owner’s grandparents in the early 20th century.

Part of this land, which adjoins National Trust lands, was acquired from Beatrix Potter in 1930. Since this time, the land has been managed under the terms of a restrictive covenant “to keep the said lands… in their present condition so as to preserve the amenities of the neighbourhood”.

Seven decades of maintaining the land as semi improved grassland has led to the development of internationally rare valley and basin mires, as well as species-rich heath, grassland and scattered woods.

The Torver Intake falls within the Tarn Hows Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and all of the land is currently entered into the Lake District Environmentally Sensitive Area Scheme (ESA).

The sale of the Torver and Arnside Intakes provides a unique opportunity to acquire some of the most exceptional scenic landscapes in England and there is expected to be significant interest.

The property is for sale by informal tender. A PDF brochure and high resolution images are available on request.

Brian Rycroft in Carter Jonas’ Kendal office is handling the sale, he can be contacted on 01539 722592.

Building Consultancy Boosted With New Sheffield Recruits And A £300,000 Business Deal

2006-07-12T20:04:00.000+01:00

Lambert Smith Hampton has appointed two new recruits to tackle the expanding workload within its Sheffield based Building Consultancy Team and has also secured a £300,000 annual fee contract in the North East region with BT.

Chartered Building Surveyor Adrian Gardner leaves private practice firm PSK Prout Tilbrook in Leeds to join the Sheffield Team and Phil Reynolds relocates from the firm’s Northampton office.

Both will be based at Lambert Smith Hampton’s Fountain Precinct office and will undertake core Building Surveying instructions as well as getting involved in the wide range of Project Management and Monitoring instructions that the Buildings Consultancy team has achieved since its set up in 2003.

Barry Smith has been promoted to Director of the Building Consultancy Team. He also takes on a national remit on the LSH National Building Consultancy Division Panel, overseeing work and tackling new legislation issues on behalf of the Company’s 27 UK offices. He says: “The Building Consultancy Team was only established in the Sheffield office some three years ago so I’m delighted we’ve successfully grown to be one of the largest Building Consultancy Departments in the region.

“Our reputation continues to develop and we’re expanding the Team as a direct result. We’re also winning some major regional and national accounts including the three year contract for BT’s North East region so I predict the growth will continue.”

This contract means LSH will undertake maintenance and refurbishment work for BT on its North East and Yorkshire property portfolio.

New recruit, Adrian Gardner, adds: “LSH is one of the top property consultancies in the UK and has a dynamic and expanding team so I was keen to move back to Sheffield after having graduated here at Sheffield Hallam University in 2001.”

New recruit Phil Reynolds, another former Sheffield Hallam student, is as equally excited to be back in Sheffield and adds: “From the Sheffield office I will be working with clients across Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and the East Midlands to deliver a variety of quality professional and consultancy services and look forward to the challenges ahead.”

Cheshire Property Services Appoints New Managing Director

2006-07-12T17:06:00.000+01:00

Cheshire Property Services (CPS), the estate agency service of Cheshire Building Society responsible for buying, renting, selling and letting properties, has appointed David Thomas as Managing Director.

David, from Cheshire, will be responsible for building upon the existing reputation of the CPS and strengthening awareness of its offering within the industry. He previously worked as Regional Sales Manager at Chester-based Beresford Adams for ten years and prior to that, worked at Swetenhams and Prudential.

Commenting on his appointment as Managing Director, David said: “Cheshire Property Services is highly regarded and I believe it has the potential to build substantial market share, gaining recognition as a serious player within the industry. I am looking forward to heading up the team to develop the company’s image and create a comprehensive marketing plan.”

Karen McCormick, Chief Executive at Cheshire Building Society, added: “We are thrilled to welcome David to Cheshire Property Services as Managing Director and believe his expertise will prove valuable to the team. He has extensive experience within the property market and shares our ambition to raise Cheshire Property Services’ profile. His role will be essential in driving the business forward and I look forward to seeing the results.”

First Two Substantial Lettings For Victoria Plaza

2006-07-12T15:03:00.000+01:00

Delamere Estates is very pleased to announce news of the first two retailers to sign up for space at Victoria Plaza Shopping Centre in Southend.

Wilkinson, the department store renowned for the quality and value of its products, has agreed a 15-year lease on a 39,000 sq ft (3623 sq m) unit that will be located on the basement floor of the centre.

Popular fashion brand New Look has also pre-let space at the Victoria Plaza Shopping Centre. New Look has agreed a 15-year lease on a 19, 127 sq ft (1,777 sq m) unit to be located on the first floor with an extension over the deepings. New Look has agreed to pay an annual rent of £330,000 for this unit. (£17.25 per sq ft).

Speaking on behalf of Wilkinson, Adam Kirk, Acquisitions Manager, commented:
‘’We are impressed by this outstanding scheme and delighted to have this opportunity to extend our store in Southend after trading extremely well from our existing unit for eleven years. Adding this additional space will allow us to create a bigger, brighter shopping environment for our customers whilst offering them even more choice at even lower prices. Best of all for our customers, we’ll be open for business for the duration of the centre development”

Amanda Herron, Acquisitions Manager at New Look, commented:
‘’We are very impressed by the Victoria Plaza Shopping Centre refurbishment scheme and are delighted to be part of it. Having opened its first store in Taunton in 1969, New Look now has in excess of 510 stores in the U.K., Southern Ireland, Belgium and in France, where there is a further 250 stores trading under the name of MIM. The new centre will evidently greatly improve the retail offering in Southend and we are very pleased that New Look will be the store of first choice for fashion in the town.’’

Work has started this week on the refurbishment of the existing centre and a start on site ceremony took place on 12th July. The refurbishment programme which will cost a total of £21.5 million will be complete by summer 2007.

Bill Harkness, Chief Executive of retail development specialists Delamere Estates, commented:
‘We are extremely pleased we have secured Wilkinson and New Look as the first two new tenants in the scheme and that we are now that we have started on site we expect a high level of interest from other high street names who will want to take space in what will be a state of the art, vibrant shopping centre for the people of Southend.’

Spain: Perfectly Priced For A Tried And Tested Market

2006-07-11T15:01:00.000+01:00

With so much talk of emerging markets it could be easy to overlook Spain, a country whose infrastructure is second to none and whose property market has performed extraordinarily well for decades.

John Reilly UK Sales Manager for Buy Abroad says, “Spain is still a serious contender in the overseas property markets. It has long been a favourite of the British and its location to the UK and ease of travel to and fro have been undoubted benefits. With so much talk of emerging markets one could be excused for overlooking Spain, but if you are looking for a tried and tested market in a country that is geared up for tourists and investors alike Spain still has to be recognised as a market leader. The benefits of owning in Spain are too numerous to mention, this is evident in the amount of enquiries that we deal with day in day out of people looking to invest here for either a holiday home or a permanent residence. Prices in Spain compared to emerging markets are high but for those looking for reassurance before investing then my advice would be to stick with a country that you know will deliver and Spain has certainly delivered over the years and will continue to do so.”

One perfectly priced investment opportunity is Residencial El Rocio in Almeria. This delightful complex is situated in La Alfoquia of Zurgena, about 20 minutes from the coast and within walking distance of all local amenities. Just 5 minutes drive away is the large town of Albox where there is an abundance of shops, bars and restaurants and a weekly market with large quantities of locally grown produce. Residencial El Rocio benefits from a nearby mountain range affording fine views in all directions. The resort offers two bedrooms, two bathroom townhouses offering spacious accommodation, coming with fully fitted kitchens including all white goods. All of the townhouses are situated around a communal pool and there are landscaped gardens and pathways surrounding.

John adds, “This is a tremendous opportunity to buy an affordable residence either as a holiday home or as an investment. Due to the sensible pricing of these properties we don’t envisage these being on the market for very long, so those looking for a foothold in Spain would be best advised to act soon.”

Prices at Residencial El Rocio start from just £72,786

€403 Million Invested In Black Sea Airports

2006-07-11T10:59:00.000+01:00

€403 million invested in Black Sea airports

Bourgas and Varna airports located on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast will undergo modernisation and expansion valued at €403 million courtesy of Fraport GA. The Bulgarian government awarded the German airport operator the concession earlier this month which will run for the next 35 years.

Tahir Ali of market leading agent Bulgaria Revealed comments, “We warmly welcome this news; both Bourgas and Varna have become popular gateways for tourists to the Black Sea coast and it is important to ensure that these airports are designed to handle increasing passenger numbers”. In 2005 both airports handled over 1.6 million passengers and this figure is expected to reach over 4 million as Bulgaria heads towards EU ascension.

For further information please contact Bulgaria Revealed on 0845 054 8697 or visit www.bulgariarevealed.com.

The Great British Escape At Any Cost

2006-07-10T23:20:00.000+01:00

• 68% of us want to buy a property abroad.
• Two thirds (62%) see escaping the UK weather as the main benefit of owning a holiday home.
• Half (50%) like the idea of escaping the UK lifestyle of high taxes and long working hours.
• Desperate to get away, 11 million Brits could own abroad within 5 years.

Fed up of the UK climate and lifestyle 68% of Brits would like to buy property abroad. According to new independent research from HIFX, the currency experts, Brits rate overseas weather and lifestyles more important than effective investment or making a profit when they pour their cash into properties abroad.

HIFX’s research found that almost two thirds of Brits (62%) see the main benefit of buying a property abroad as a chance to escape the cold and rainy UK weather. Half (50%) think it would be good to escape their stressful UK lifestyle of long working hours and high taxes and over a quarter (27%) would like to eventually emigrate and live abroad.

According to ONS Government figures the number of Britons owning second homes abroad now stands at 257,000 but HIFX’s research shows that a further 29 million Brits would like to buy a property abroad and 11 million could actually own one within the next five years. However desires to make a good investment or long term profit are low down on the list of priorities. People are three times more concerned about escaping the UK weather than making long term profit. However, worryingly one in four property buyers are also either unaware or unconcerned about fluctuating exchange rates and how this could increase the final cost of their property.

Spain remains our top get away destination with 46% of prospective buyers aiming to buy there. However, far flung destinations such as Australia, Canada and New Zealand are also increasing in popularity. Our favoured type of property to buy would be a villa by the sea (49%), followed by a house in the countryside (19%); just 5% of buyers would consider an apartment in a city, including people wishing to emigrate suggesting that most Brits want their new home to be a complete escape from busy UK life.

Mark Bodega, marketing director of HIFX comments: “There has been a shift from a second home being regarded as a luxury to it being something attainable by most people. In 1995, the average price paid for a second home overseas was 65% of the average UK property price. By 2005 it had fallen to 37% reflecting in part steeper house price inflation in the UK, but also the fact that second homes had become more of a mass market aspiration”.

“The impact of growing prosperity, cheaper flights and the low cost of borrowing – even lower in the eurozone than in the UK – mean the trend for buying property abroad is expected to accelerate”.

HIFX produce monthly Global Hot Spots reports detailing the new up and coming locations for Brits to buy property abroad. This month’s report showed that the traditional locations such as Spain and France are facing tougher competition from new Hot Spots such as Bulgaria and Cape Verde.

For further information on HIFX and its products and services
Please call 01753 751 776 or visit www.hifx.co.uk

Hatrick Of Lettings Secured At Kirkstall Industrial Park, Leeds

2006-07-10T22:56:00.000+01:00

Three units at Kirkstall Industrial Park have recently been let leaving only one unit remaining at the successful estate.

Standard Life Investments appointed Lambert Smith Hampton and joint agent Carter & Co just over a year ago and since that time lettings have been secured on seven units.

The recent lettings see Unit 4 and Unit 5 let to Spendlove Jebb, a Northern Ireland based plumbers merchant for its first UK depot. A ten-year lease has been agreed at £5.25 per sq ft on approximately 7800 sq ft, which the company will use for trade counter and showroom and distribution.

Cable and Wireless has also signed up at Unit 3 providing approximately 9240 sq ft on a new 15-year lease at £5.00 per sq ft. the unit to be used as a switching centre and to facilitate expansion from Unit 2, which they already occupy.

Bruce Strachan, industrial agent at Lambert Smith Hampton’s Leeds office, says: “These recent lettings confirm Kirkstall Industrial Park as a thriving commercial centre on the fringe of Leeds City Centre. This success has been aided by easy access to and from the motorways, the availability of expansion space and the modern, high quality units on offer. We are also in discussions with prospective tenants on the final remaining unit and are confident the estate will be fully let shortly.’’

Kirkstall Industrial Park is adjacent to the popular Vue Multiplex Cinema and leisure complex and is approximately one mile to the North West of Leeds City Centre. The Industrial Park is home to the likes of Komori UK, DHL, SIG Roofing and Kier Services.

New Skys Registers With ABC Electronic

2006-07-10T21:24:00.000+01:00

The UK's largest overseas property portal* www.newskys.co.uk has registered with ABC ELECTRONIC to independently verify the number of visitors to the site.

New Skys is among the first in the overseas property sector to make this move, as part of its commitment to excellence ahead of a summer relaunch.

Established in 2002, New Skys was voted the Best Overseas Property Portal in the International Property Awards, 2005. The online portal hosts more than 25,000 properties* from around the world. It includes up-to-date information on purchasing property in over 60 countries* and plans to be bigger and better following the revamp.

Roy Bristow, New Skys Marketing Director, said registering with ABC ELECTRONIC was in line with its ongoing commitment to professional business practise and exceptional standards of service.

“New Skys is an Industry leader in online overseas property sales and will continue to grow rapidly over the next few years. I believe it's our duty to our partners to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information possible.

“Advertisers in print media have long relied on ABC audit figures when making decisions on advertising spend and we want our advertisers to have that same assurance,” Mr Bristow said.

New Skys is committing to have its traffic figures independently verified to industry-agreed standards as set by JICWEBS (The Joint Industry Committee for Web Standards).

ABC ELECTRONIC is a not-for-profit organisation which works on behalf of media buyers, advertisers and media owners to provide independent verification and certification for data related to electronic media.
Richard Foan, Managing Director of ABC ELECTRONIC said, “We are extremely pleased to welcome New Skys into registration, and look forward to the announcement of its first independently audited traffic figures.”

“As more sites commit to delivering accountability and transparency by having their traffic figures audited, the online media industry can continue to secure a justifiably larger share of marketing spend.”

For more details, please visit www.newskys.co.uk.

* Publishers Statement

LSH Serves Up New Office Building In Sheffield

2006-07-10T20:23:00.000+01:00

As Wimbledon draws to a close Sheffield is to get its own Centre Court but the city’s version won’t be attracting the world’s top tennis players but hopefully the region’s top businesses.

Situated close to the popular Meadowhall area of the City, Centre Court is a speculative 10,163 sq ft (944.1m) three floor office destination. Developer, Prospect GB, is investing in the site and work begins this week.

The new development will be built on the old tennis courts of Distington & Atlas House, hence its name. The development is situated on Atlas Way and is visible from Brightside Lane, which will appeal to commercial users that have been drawn to this area.

Rebecca Schofield, from sole agent, Lambert Smith Hampton’s Sheffield office, says: “This is a fantastic development which will bring much needed Grade A office accommodation to the area. It has been designed to maximise flexibility so that the space can be let in its entirety or on a floor by floor basis.

“It is expected to be completed within the next year and we are already talking to a number of interested parties about pre let opportunities.”

Available on flexible letting terms, quoting rents are £14.50 per sq ft. For further information contact Rebecca Schofield on 0114 2753752

The High Life Comes To Bradford

2006-07-10T17:57:00.000+01:00

Sales of new homes at Lowry’s High Rigg development, inThorpe Edge, Bradford, are exceeding the company’s expectations.

The house type choice, which comprises a mix of two and three bedroom semi-detached and three bedroom detached properties, each featuring Lowry’s distinctive blend of superb interior specification with charming exterior detail, has proved to be perfect for the location.

Lowry has recently introduced two additional money-saving offers:
The company will now pay the 5% deposit, to ease the expense of moving home – and guarantee a warm welcome by providing fitted carpets throughout.

The recent opening of Lowry’s first regional office, in Sowerby Bridge, demonstrates the company’s commitment to the area and more Yorkshire home buyers will be able to taste the Lowry
“high life” as more developments come on stream in future.

Prices at High Rigg start from £126,950

The Sales Centre is open from Thursday to Monday, 11.00 am to 6.00 pm each day, tel: 01274 613 204.

Reading Office Buildings Sold For New Hotel Development and Apartment Hotel

2006-07-10T12:26:00.000+01:00

Lambert Smith Hampton has sold the Reading office building Signal House (25,000 sq ft) for Prudential to London & Silver Developments for £3m. The purchasers have subsequently obtained planning permission for a new 150 bedroom hotel that has in turn been pre-let to Premier Inns.

Christopher Reeve Director of Lambert Smith Hampton’s Reading office explains “There has been latent demand for new hotel development in Reading town centre. This building was ideal, the existing office building was dated and had a poor configuration, yet enjoys a terrific position opposite the Oracle shopping centre”.

“This is the second office building we have sold for this kind of change of use. The other is Crown House a 30,000 sq ft building we sold for Scottish Widows to TA Fisher who are about to undertake works to refurbish the building and convert it into a high quality apartment hotel”.

3-Storey Town Houses At Bellway’s Broughton MK Offer Endless Living Possibilities

2006-07-08T10:18:00.000+01:00

The three-storey townhouse, once the Georgians' answer to urban living, has come full circle with its original principles providing a blueprint for solving some of today's housing issues.

During the Georgian and Victorian times almost every metropolitan centre had its own splendid examples of three-storey living, and today the three-storey Idaho model at Bellway’s Broughton MK housing development in Milton Keynes beautifully captures the elegance and flexibility of these homes.

The Broughton MK development is situated off H7 Chaffron Way. Ideally located close to schools, shops, a medical centre, children’s play area and community centre, it is also encircled by the Redway network of pedestrian and cycle paths which allows residents to walk or cycle safely to the centre of Milton Keynes and all other amenities.

Four-bedroom Idaho townhouses are priced from £294,950 and offer 1436 square foot of space, two en-suite bathrooms, garage and two parking spaces. The ground floor features a living/dining room with patio doors opening to the garden, a WC, studio room with patio doors, kitchen and utility room. Two bedrooms, one en-suite, and a bathroom occupy the first floor whilst the top floor features a master bedroom with en-suite facilities and a fourth bedroom.

According to Bellway Northern Home Counties Sales Director Chris Edginton, the townhouse presents the perfect solution to the complex needs of today's purchasers' requirement for flexibility since it lends itself to zonal living and maximises each floor's potential.

“Whether it's 'boomerang kids' returning from university, accommodating elderly dependents, or the growing number of those working from home, distinct living zones have increasing appeal to homebuyers.

"What's more, the townhouse answers Government demands for higher density living since it takes up less land, but offers much more space than an equivalent two-storey house.

"It's more environmentally friendly too since there are less exposed surfaces from which to lose heat.

He continued: "For many, part of the attraction of living in a townhouse is the ability to create varying zones, which can be emphasised by the choice of décor. They offer all the convenience of modern living and are perfect for families, as they allow owners to tailor the layout to suit their lifestyle and needs.

“The flexibility to convert the ground floor studio room and any spare bedrooms into a study, a gym area or a TV den for children means that these homes lend themselves to a myriad of different options for living.”

The sales centre at MK Broughton is open 7 days a week, from 10am to 5pm. Telephone 01908 395463 for further information or visit www.bellway.co.uk.

Rural Revitalisation

2006-07-07T17:41:00.000+01:00

"Why interest in rejuvenating redundant rural buildings never wains.”

George F. White, who specialise in selling lifestyle and rural properties tells us why there is always a huge amount of interest in rural properties in need of renovation.

"Whether the property needs only a slight face lift or a full body overall, one thing is for sure" says Andrew Young of the George F White Wolsingham Durham Office, "A property in need of a Botox or beauty or treatment will always find a buyer".

Renovating, converting or rejuvenating an old building is for many people the ultimate challenge and opportunity. It means that they can purchase a potential home and transform it into the perfect home to suit their own specific needs. When completed. it will have traditional characteristics with 21st century contemporary facilities and services. Whether it be an old barn, byre, cottage, cabin, windmill or waterwheel there are always a plethora of people wanting to make these types of purchases.

In the North more often than not these buildings are situated in rural areas of Durham and Northumberland. Being old buildings they usually retain original features and have masses of character. Their surroundings are often stunning, with fantastic views and many have their own adjoining paddock.

"Due to the difficulties in achieving planning permission on rural buildings, properties to renovate are becoming increasingly difficult to find. This combined with people wanting to design their own living space has resulted in demand currently far outstripping supply. " continues Andrew.

Three properties with real restoration potential that have just some onto the market with George F. White are:

- Ellershope Cottage, Allendale, County Durham – this is a Grade II listed stone cottage with adjoining barn complete with full planning permission to convert into a 3 bedroom residence set in half an acre of grounds. Situated in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with stunning rural views it is For sale through the Wolsimgham Office of George F. White by public auction on 27 July with a guide price of £120,000.

- Hetton Sawmill and Hetton Granary near Belford, in North Northumberland - two separate farm steading units. Each has detailed planning and building regulation approval for conversion to a 4 bedroom house with 2 bathrooms. Both of these stone buildings properties have planning for a courtyard gardens and grounds. They are being sold through the Alnwick office of George f. White,. The Sawmill with a Guide price £135,200. The Granary with a Guide Price £110,000.

Commentary On Base Rate

2006-07-07T16:15:00.000+01:00

Barry Naisbitt, Abbey's Chief Economist comments on yesterday's Base Rate decision:

"The Bank of England held rates at 4.50% yesterday, marking the eleventh month in which rates have been left unchanged. While financial markets are worrying about whether the US Federal Reserve is going to raise rates for an eighteenth successive meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee continued to hold a steadier course. With economic news continuing to be mixed, it was no surprise that a Committee of members who all voted to hold rates last month, did so again.

"The interest for commentators and financial markets will be in whether any of the Monetary Policy Committee members voted to raise rates, so changing their view from June."

Prime Location, Just A Short Distance From The Buzz Of Bodrum

2006-07-07T15:08:00.000+01:00

Buy Abroad are now pleased to bring to the market ‘Turquoise’ a unique development situated where Tuzla Lake meets the sea just a short distance from the buzz of Bodrum.

Tuzla Lake and its extensive wetlands lie at the end of a deep inlet from the Gulf of Mandalaya Bay. This unique site offers rolling mountains, covered with rich combinations of wild shrubs, olive groves, along with pine and tamarisk trees, making this one of the most beautiful villages in Turkey. With Lake Tuzla on one side and the sea on the other, the small fishing village of Bogazici nestles on the shores of Mandalaya Bay and holds an important place in history as the site of the ancient city of Bargilia. Today a few fish restaurants fringe the seafront offering the day’s fresh catch and other Aegean specialities.

This five star development consists of apartments and villas all built to blend in with the surrounding architecture. Each property is built to the highest standards and offers good sized family accommodation ideal as a holiday home or a permanent residence. There is an array of facilities on site including indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, gym, sauna, beauty centre, mini golf, tennis; children’s play area, café and bar. Also residents have access to a private beach with wonderful views over to the Gulf of Gulluck and can be reached either by foot or cable car. There are endless water sports to be enjoyed and the water is guaranteed to be crystal clear.

John Reilly UK Sales Manager of Buy Abroad says, “Turquoise is in an ideal location which really has to be seen to be believed. Its position also lends itself to take advantage of the new Vita Park Golf Project boasting one eighteen hole and two nine hole courses. Those looking to invest here are assured of a premier property in an enviable position. Turkey has seen a dramatic increase in the number of tourists its welcomes each year and the knock on effect of this will be that the property market will continue to flourish and with EU membership in the future Turkey has all the attributes of a successful property market.”

Prices at Turquoise start from just £62,000

Buy Abroad are leading overseas property specialists who operate in Turkey, Cyprus, Spain, Malta and Portugal.

www.buyabroad.com
01234 401557

Increased Demand For Office Space A Result Of Sheffield’s Successful Economic Diversification

2006-07-07T10:06:00.000+01:00

Sheffield’s success in diversifying its economy away from traditional heavy industries towards banking, insurance, public services and education is likely to lead to strong growth in office market activity predicts property expert Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH).

LSH’s recently released M1 office market report highlights that a total of 319,000 sq ft of office accommodation was let during the last year, with professional and public sector bodies dominating demand.

“We expect demand for office space to remain high in 2006 and to outstrip supply in the foreseeable future,” says Guy Gilfilan, Director at LSH’s Sheffield office. “Sheffield’s strengths lie in its pool of skilled labour and its competitive property costs, perhaps the two most important factors for occupiers when deciding on a location.”

Total supply in Sheffield is currently 885,000 sq ft. However, there is limited availability of Grade A stock in the city centre, but the strategic sites that could satisfy larger enquiries include St Paul’s Place, Riverside Exchange and the Square.

Deals over the past year include 120,000 sq ft at 1 Riverside Exchange which was let to the Home Office at £14.50 sq ft on a 15-year lease, and 34,000 sq ft at Velocity, Tenter Street, let to ISP’s Plus Net at a rent of circa £16 per sq ft.

However, the report concedes that more development is needed if the city is to compete successfully with Leeds and Manchester.

“Continued residential activity has improved the availability of housing in the city, but has limited sites for office development,” says Guy Gilfilan. “There are a number of significant requirements in the marketplace, including up to 50,000 sq ft by Sheffield City Council, up to 40,000 sq ft by SYPTE and up to 15,000 sq ft by Employment Services Tribunal.”

The Lambert Smith Hampton report notes that new regeneration projects such as the refurbishment of City Hall and a new square in front of the railway station are set to transform the city centre.

In addition, a number of development projects are underway. Later this year British Land is predicted to submit a planning application for the creation of a residential and office scheme next to Meadowhall Shopping Centre, following the purchase of 16 acres from Park Row.

Cherry Tree Developments has also submitted an outline planning application for a 28-stroey landmark tower comprising around 100,000 sq ft of office, residential and retail space.

Rents have risen significantly over the past 12 months – from £15 per sq ft to £18 per sq ft - as new stock such as St Paul’s Place has come onto the market. LSH expects to see an increase to £20 per sq ft by the end of the year, which should help Sheffield to achieve the quality of building it desperately needs to compete with Leeds and Manchester.

“Direct intervention by Sheffield One and the City Council through investment in the city means that investors and developers who now enter the market may reap significant benefits in the medium to long term,” says Guy Gilfilan.

“A shortage of prime accommodation, limited development and strong demand should provide an impetus for rents to grow to £20 per sq ft by year’s end.”

Dreams Designed To Come True With Banner

2006-07-07T10:02:00.000+01:00

A couple from Crowthorne have designed their very own dream home with the help of quality property developer Banner Homes.

Bob and Mary Wallace-Jones spent two years searching for a spacious apartment in Berkshire, but found that most of the new build properties in the area simply weren’t big enough to accommodate their needs. Until, that is, they heard about the new Banner Homes Wellesley Court development.

The couple were delighted when Banner Homes agreed to change the plans for the development and build what had originally been two plots, as a single larger apartment. Bob and Mary worked with the architects, to design their new three bedroom home exactly as they wanted. The apartment boasts three sizeable bedrooms, a large sitting room, separate dining room and even a utility room.

Mary says; “Everyone at Banner was extremely helpful. Not only did they agree to change the design for us, but nothing seemed too much trouble. They kept in touch with us at every stage in the process and we had the added benefit of expert advice from the architects on what would and wouldn’t work in the design.

“Our new home is everything we could have wished for. After two years of searching, we thought that to accommodate our furniture and visiting family we would either have to buy a large traditional house requiring significant maintenance or sell the furniture and stay in our small apartment off the Sandhurst road, which we bought as a second home for trips to the UK when we were living in Ireland.

“We moved back to Crowthorne to be near to our daughter, who has just given birth to our first granddaughter, and now we have plenty of space when she visits with her new family. We can also offer our other two children, who live in Amsterdam and Italy, a base when they visit the UK.

“In fact, our home has such a feeling of spaciousness that many of our friends comment that it seems much more like a house than an apartment.”

For further information please call the selling agent Romans on 01344 776010.
www.bannerhomes.co.uk

Traditional Cyprus

2006-07-07T09:52:00.000+01:00

Cyprus has proved to be especially popular with the British market, which are by far the most active buying property in Cyprus. The British market consists of approximately 60% of total foreign investment and is only followed by ex eastern block countries with other EU countries falling way behind.

It seems that the British have been quite shrewd in their investments as Cyprus is very competitive on prices particularly in relation to Spain and Portugal with prices being lower by 20% and 30% respectively. In addition to this Cyprus has learnt from its closest rivals in the Mediterranean and has been rigorous in making sure that construction work will not spoil the existing beauty of the island. It was this tough stance many years ago that has helped pave the way for the future, as Cyprus now seems to be tipping the scales in its favour as being one of the most popular destinations to invest in property overseas.

John Reilly UK Sales Manager for Buy Abroad says, “Cyprus is now an island that is offering premier properties to the level that would be expected by western European standards at comparatively low prices. Better still this tried and tested market seems set to jump to another level particularly as Cyprus continues its robust move into attracting more sports to the islands, such as golf, athletics and many water sports. These new initiatives along with entry into the EU monetary system in 2007/2008 means that Cyprus will once again perform and the expectancy on the island is high.”

One such premier development currently available through Buy Abroad is Pine Bay Forest in Pissouri. Ideally located, away from the hustle and bustle, yet with the nearby attractions and amenities of Pissouri village. It boasts a beautiful coastline and is ideally positioned now that the new motorway is complete, giving easy access to the rest of the island. There are a range of traditional two, three and four bedroom villas set amidst a sprawling pine forest providing shade and privacy. Accommodation is open plan on the ground floor providing spacious living areas. There is a galleried landing leading to the bedrooms of which the master bedrooms come with en suite. All finishes are to a high standard and specification, in addition there are large verandas and private swimming pools are available on some plots.

Prices at Pine Bay Forest start from £150,452

www.buyabroad.com

Cala Homes Comes To Knowle

2006-07-06T14:47:00.000+01:00

CALA Homes (Midlands) has unveiled the look of The Whitings, its new luxury residential development on Station Road in Knowle, Solihull.

The Birmingham-based, award winning, premium housebuilder is building eight very spacious two- and three-bedroom, two bathroom apartments on the corner of Station Road and Widney Road, diagonally opposite Knowle and Dorridge Cricket Club.

Called The Whitings because the building is rendered in white, and due to its proximity to the cricket club, the designs for CALA Homes’ new development have taken inspiration from the Edwardian and late Victorian architecture of the large homes in Station Road in Knowle.

These provided the inspiration for the white render, the elevational features and the wrap around balconies in a modern interpretation of Edwardian style.

“The Whitings is a bespoke CALA development – one which gives a contemporary twist to the best designs of the past,” says Sue Parry, CALA Homes (Midlands) sales and marketing director.

“We have spent much time and effort with our architect working on the design for our new development as we wanted to make sure that it is right for Knowle, one of the most sought after residential areas in the region,” continues Mrs Parry.

“It is a small, exclusive development offering some of the finest and most spacious apartments in Knowle.”

The Whitings is less than one mile from Roxburgh Place in Dorridge, CALA Homes’ scheme of 12 two bed apartments which it developed and sold out in 2004.

At The Whitings, many of the apartments have balconies and large picture feature windows, while some have views to the cricket ground. There is on-site parking, as well as a lift to each floor.

CALA Homes has already received significant interest from people wanting to find out more about the scheme.

“Due to the development’s fantastic location, the superb design and excellent specification that will be found at these properties, we have received much interest from people who want to live in Knowle. We are advising anyone who is interested in finding out more about this development to call our sales team and pre-register their interest in advance of the launch,” continues Ms Parry.

The first apartments will be released for sale in August when a showhome opens, with guide prices from £300,000 to £400,000. Details about the new homes at The Whitings can be obtained from the CALA sales office on 0121 629 1335.

Expect Interest Rise And Healthy Housing Market Says RICS

2006-07-06T13:46:00.000+01:00

The Bank of England's decision to leave interest rates unchanged today at 4.5 percent is welcomed by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), though once again not unexpected. The UK economy is performing significantly better today than at the turn of the year, due in part to robust activity conditions in Europe and Asia which has spurred a rise in manufacturing output and exports.

The property market has shown some signs of cooling in recent months according to figures released by mortgage lenders, with Halifax today reporting a 1.2 percent drop in prices for June. However, RICS estate agents are in a confident mood with new enquiries from would-be buyers rising through out June despite the World Cup, and follows on from a strong rebound in market activity in May.

RICS expects the Bank of England to follow the lead of other world central banks, and raise interest rates later this year by a quarter percent point. A modest rise in borrowing costs will not though depress the wider economy and we expect the housing market to retain an element of strength, with only a modest slowdown envisaged.

Great gardens! What an improvement...

2006-07-06T09:44:00.000+01:00

Great gardens! What an improvement...

If you are trying to sell your home or are just looking to spend a bit of time on ‘home improvements’ this summer then your garden is a great place to start, allowing you to relax in your own haven and dine out on balmy evenings. Emily Aklan, of Property Psychology gives us some top tips for adding value to your garden and making it a space to enjoy.

To create an area perfect for eating out and BBQ’s then decking is a superb option. It can create a very contemporary feel to your outside space and will certainly brighten up your garden. By replacing your concrete patio, you will immediately soften and modernise the overall look. It is worth noting however, that the decking would require vanishing once a year unless you install a pre-treated hard-wearing decking.

In order to adapt the mood of your garden by fashioning a relaxing ambience or contrasting that with a high energy feel then you must have excellent garden lighting. It is a simple way of crafting a spectacular outdoor feature and will certainly accentuate the new decking. There are many options available on the high street from lanterns to solar lighting.

If you love the sounds of living by water but can’t quite achieve the atmosphere from your London pad then build a water feature in your garden so you can relax to the sound of trickling water. Water features do not have to be expensive and you can now buy them to fit into the smallest of spaces from traditional country fountains to contemporary Japanese features.

If, like many families, you are swamped in children’s toys, a lawn mower and some scary looking garden tools then investing in an outside storage unit is a great idea, it will de-clutter your garden immediately. But don’t think you have to put up with an old brown shed, today you can turn your storage box into a feature, such as creating a summer house, painting the wood in different and bright colours or you can even install it with a different roof to suit your tastes.

For those of us who love the idea of a new garden but think its only for summer, planting low maintenance shrubs and borders is the easy way to keep a fresh look all through the year. If you get over-excited in the garden centre and buy hundreds of exotic, seasonal plants then chances are they will have died off by September leaving a wake of brown foliage. Keep it simple and buy evergreens and shrubs which just require watering.

By following these top tips you can add value to your home and make your property more appealing to potential purchasers in a competitive market, as well as allowing your family and friends to enjoy being at home and outside this summer!

For all your other household improvement needs in order to sell your home or add value, speak to London-based Property Psychology on 020 8368 7227. Property Psychology also offers a property finder service and property sale management service in London and the Home Counties.

In A Drought Buy A Property With A Water Wheel!

2006-07-06T09:38:00.000+01:00

With much of England suffering from a drought, Property Agents George F. White has the perfect solution – a house with its very own working water wheel. This is the Grade II listed Old Mill, East Newtown near Rothbury in Northumberland. Although no longer actively producing energy the wheel has been replaced and the water is now channelled from a nearby stream.

The Old Mill building is constructed of traditional Northumberland Stone and is believed to date back to the 17th Century. Today the building may still be old but the accommodation is new and has been completely restored and transformed into a beautiful home.

The accommodation comprises of a large open plan living and kitchen area with oak flooring, state of the art kitchen, original beams and roof trusses and wood burning stove. On the ground floor there are two double bedrooms a family bathroom, entrance hall and curved staircase leading to the first floor living area. Outside, the property has a charming private walled garden and gravelled terrace.

The Old Mill is situated in a rural location in the Coquet Valley, on the edge of the National Park and 1 ½ miles from the market town of Rothbury. Morpeth, Tyneside and Newcastle are all within an easy commuting distance.

"Throughout the restoration and conversion of the Old Mill attention to detail has been of great importance." says Diane Taylor of the Alnwick office of George F. White. "This is traditional building that still retains many original features, whilst offering contemporary accommodation as a family home or second home. In addition to the working water wheel, one of the main features has to be the magnificent views across rural Northumberland."

Whoever purchases The Old Mill, one thing for sure in this beautiful Valley of Northumberland they will never be short of water. The Old Mill is being offered sale by George F. White in association with Strutt & Parker at a guide price of £295,000.

George F. White is one of the leading independent firms of chartered surveyors and property professionals in the North East of England. They have offices in Alnwick and Tyne Valley in Northumberland, Wolsingham in County Durham, Bedale in North Yorkshire and Mayfair in London

Full details about The Old Mill are available through the Alnwick office of George F. White - 01665 603581 www.georgefwhite.co.uk.

Bulgarian Property Boom Set To Get Bigger

2006-07-06T09:35:00.000+01:00

www.experiencebg.co.uk

The Bulgarian property market has continued to blow investor’s minds with yet another huge leap in the return-on-investment rate.

This month, it was announced that the expected return on investment had increased 21%, from 116% to 137%, in just four months from the beginning of 2006.

This figure is set to increase as both tourism, which now accounts for 16% of Bulgaria’s GDP, and businesses flock to the area. Both are looking to reap the benefits from new low cost flights and a more economical lifestyle.

Investors in the area have the added security of Bulgaria’s expected EU entry in January 2007 or 2008 which means property values are set to increase even further.

This ongoing shift in overseas market trends is reflected in the growth of investors approaching companies such as experiencebg.

experiencebg specialises in the identification and assessment of investment opportunities in Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast and Mountain Ski regions, including The Pirin Golf & Country Club, The Lighthouse Golf Resort and Spa and the new five star resort, Crystal Apartments in Bankso.

With the EU succession, more low cost carriers heading to Bulgaria and demand for real estate ever increasing, Bulgaria is by far the best place for overseas investment.

Best Kept Village In Cyprus

2006-07-05T10:31:00.000+01:00

Cyprus the ‘Jewel in the Mediterranean’ is still performing well in an overseas property market that appears to launch another ‘new’ market each month. Cyprus is one of the best overseas property markets to date and with regular capital appreciation and strong links to the UK the future bodes well for Cyprus as it awaits its full integration into the EU with the launching of the Euro in the near future.

John Reilly UK Sales Manager for Buy Abroad says, “Cyprus has never failed to disappoint as an investment island. Even now in these days of emerging markets Cyprus is still regularly achieving up to 15% capital appreciation per year making it one of the most popular destinations to invest in. Cyprus has always proved popular to the UK investor because of the close similarities to the way of life and has over the years become a Mecca for British retiree’s. However Cyprus is an all year round island and now with better travel and advanced communications we are finding that Cyprus is proving popular with all age groups.”

Kiti Village is recognised as having won awards for being the best kept village in Cyprus. If this isn’t testament enough this tranquil and traditional cultural village is surrounded by greenery offering far reaching views and has proved to be very popular with those from the UK looking for that something a little bit different.

Kiti Gardens brings to the market a number of two bedrooms, two bathroom homes. Each property offer spacious living accommodation and is built to he highest specification. There are varying plot sizes and there is even the opportunity to upgrade to have a swimming pool included. In addition to this the properties provide spacious balconies and plentiful car parking and come with car port as standard.

John adds, “Kiti Gardens is a superb development in a premier location. These properties would suit as a holiday home, permanent residence or as an investment opportunity. However being just a short drive from Tersefanou, home of the new golf course and club house these properties are not likely to remain on the market for long as this area further enhances its popularity with locals and tourists alike.

Prices start from just £116,000

www.buyabroad.com