Potter’s Estate Agents Sales, New Homes, Lettings and Property Management
LIFE | LAND | BUSINESS
For your life, land and business We’re with you through every move
01473 611211 barkergotelee.co.uk
41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF
Helping you find your perfect Suffolk home In a world of social media domination and smart phone technology providing access to information at the touch of a button, Potter’s Estate Agents is different!
Our dedicated and passionate team have extensive knowledge of the Suffolk area. With over 120 years of industry experience between us, we know the local market inside out.
We harness the incredible power of the internet by utilising property portals including Rightmove, and we combine this with social media visibility and a high street office. Through this combination we are able to offer outstanding coverage and customer service, ensuring you realise your property goals.
We deliver a tailored service with attention to detail and a level of commitment many others can’t. Our customers are our number one priority and as one of the clients said: “The internet enables you to look as many times as you want but it is the agent that makes the deal happen.”
Our aim: we don’t just want to deliver a service, we want to deliver an experience!
Sales, New Homes, Lettings and Property Management
01394 447487 • enquiries@pottersestateagents.com • www.pottersestateagents.com 6 Market Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4LU
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Removals Storage Deliveries Export Wrapping Grand Piano Moving Vehicle Transport
Caring about your possessions Looking after every single item as though it was our own.
As a family business we have been involved in the removal trade since 1989. Having learnt a lot over the last three decades we pride ourselves on attention to detail, service and ensuring our customers have had the best removal possible. From the moment you make contact with us, to meeting our surveyor or employing our services we are 100 percent confident that you will have made the best choice. As a small business we are happy to be involved in the smallest removals but we have also moved customers to Europe, Australia, America and Canada.
01394 779499
www.woodbridgeremovals.com enquiries@woodbridgeremovals.com
A word with.... Bradley Potter Managing Director of Potter’s Estate Agents Bradley Potter shares his view on what it is to operate a successful estate agency and why he is happy to call this corner of Suffolk home. “I always had a dream of creating my own business – a dream that stayed with me throughout my early years in the property industry. Although I was grateful for the experience that I gained from the corporate companies I managed, I knew it was the right time for me to open Potter’s.” Bradley brings a wealth of experience with him having successfully managed multiple estate agent branches, growing business whilst also training and mentoring staff. Whilst his passion for property is abundantly clear, it’s his focus and understanding of his clients’ individual requirements that have brought success and respect to Potter’s. “The focus has to be 100% on the client, you need to listen and understand what their property goals are so that you are able to match them with their expectations. “I want to be part of their journey from beginning to end. I like to be able to say that we can offer all our clients fair pricing along with the best possible customer service. As an independent estate agency, with no shareholders to answer to, we can do just this.”
Bradley is well-known and respected in the local area, a place he has called home for over a decade. “I love this part of Suffolk. From the charming quirkiness of Woodbridge, the vibrant town life that Ipswich has to offer to the charming villages that lie all around. It’s a beautiful part of the world to live in and I’m not at all surprised that more and more people are coming to love this unspoilt gem. It’s the perfect place for my wife and I to call home.” “We love socialising and enjoying all the glories that Suffolk has to offer. Whether it’s out for dinner, a day at the coast, or just going off to play basketball, which I love to do.” Back in the office, the Potter’s staff are busily helping new clients and maintaining the meticulous standards Bradley has set out. “My team are brilliant. The support and experience they bring are invaluable to our continued success. The past few years have been tricky to navigate for everybody but we look to the future with real excitement and optimism. Opening Potter’s? The best decision I made.”
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Welcome to Woodbridge Woodbridge is a sweet little Suffolk market town sitting on the banks of the river Deben, less than ten miles from Ipswich. It can get a bit chilly here in winter but the warm heart of the place and its 10,000 people more than make up for that. The Sunday Times declared Woodbridge to be the best place to lay your hat in East England with the then editor, Helen Davies basing her assessment on critical issues such as, the breadth of property types, whether there was a Post Office and the quality of the town’s coffee! Regardless, this delightful town definitely punches above its weight when it comes to compelling reasons to live here. Beauty aside, it’s packed full of momentous history, a fantastic shopping experience, good schools and transport links with a wonderful array of things to do and see.
Great days out Buttrumm’s Mill is a magnificent sight and a great photo opportunity. Built in 1836, this six-storey Grade II listed mill worked the wind until 1928 and at 61ft high, it’s the tallest surviving mill in Suffolk. Entry is free and you can even climb the tower! Dig out the walking boots and take a stroll down the river to Kyson Hill, a National Trust area covering just four acres. It’s a charming estuarine landscape full of mudflats, saltings and lots of birds. It’s an easy 2.5 mile walk that everyone, including dogs, will love. >>
Beautiful walks at Kyson Hill ©National Trust Images/John Millar
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We provide a fully bespoke financial advice service to help clients both create and maintain their wealth wherever they may be in their financial lifecycle.
SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATING YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE Some main areas of planning we can assist in are; INVESTMENTS When investing it is important that consideration is taken of a number of factors such as diversification, risk, financial objectives and time horizons. We are experienced in dealing with all these criteria and producing investment recommendations to meet the private investor’s requirements to help both create and maintain your wealth. PENSIONS Pension advice needs to cover a wide range of options including existing plans and potential new arrangements. This has become a complex area, requiring specialist advice, we can help
For an initial, no obligation consultation at our expense please contact us at the office shown below, or e-mail us at info@galleonwealth.co.uk
guide you and select a suitable investment strategy to meet your requirements whether you are building for, or are at retirement. ESTATE PLANNING It is no longer the case that you need to be wealthy to be affected by Inheritance Tax. Significant increases in property values means that this tax applies to more estates than ever before. Inheritance Tax planning is a specialist area and there are a whole range of options to help mitigate Inheritance Tax bills. Some options are straightforward but increasingly some options are highly technical, we can help guide you through this financial maze.
www.galleonwealth.co.uk Tel: 01473 636688 67 Beech Road, Rushmere St Andrew, Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 1AP Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
Children playing in woodland at Sutton Hoo ©National Trust Images/John Millar
>> Located in an old US Air Force station is the Parham Airfield Museum – a must-see for WWII history lovers. There are engines, uniforms, combat records and a recreation of a barrack room.
England. Indeed you’ll find replicas of many of the findings at Sutton Hoo in the Woodbridge Museum alongside such gems as the fascinating histories of the local families who played a big part in building much of old Woodbridge. For more details about Kyson Hill and Sutton Hoo, visit the National Trust website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk There’s a tonne of family fun to be had at Congo Rapids Lost World Adventure Golf. Start on a raft, pass a jungle plane crash, marvel at the abandoned temple…. It’s a great giggle for the whole family.
Photo credit: Gaius Cornelius
Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Suffolk Coast and Heaths is truly breathtaking. Go for a walk. Sit on the beach. Watch the birds. At its heart lies Rendlesham Forest where you’ll find walking and cycling trails and a little mobile café named, charmingly, Bear Grills where you can grab yourselves some refreshments. Arguably the most important Anglo-Saxon discovery made is located at Sutton Hoo in 1938. Here was a king buried in a ship surrounded by treasures including gold, gems, a silver plate plus a ceremonial helmet. Although much of the original treasure is now at the British Museum, it’s well worth a visit to get a real sense of Anglo-Saxon
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Photo credit: Cmglee
Time to shop There’s a thriving shopping experience in Woodbridge: fans of independent shops will be thrilled to discover what’s on offer including craft shops, wool shops, art galleries, delis, gentlemen and ladies outfitters… the list goes on. A must-visit is the regularly held market on Market Hill where you’ll find vintage items, craft and food stalls.
There’s also some excellent pubs dotted around the town, some of the best are the Coach and Horses, the Old Mariner, The Anchor, The Bull and Ye Olde Bell & Steelyard.
Time for leisure In Woodbridge you’ll find the ever-popular Riverside Theatre and cinema as well as the state-of-the-art Seckford Theatre.
Time to relax If it’s good food you’re in want of, you’ll have plenty of choice. Slightly out of the town centre are the Michelin Guide recommended Unruly Pig and Turk’s Head whilst closer to the centre clustered about Thoroughfare and Quay Street you’ll find delights such as The Table, The Crown, 1530 Restaurant as well as charming cafés including Mrs Pipers, Wild Strawberry and The Tea Hut.
There’s an excellent gym at the Debden Leisure Centre which also has a pool and for a bit of pampering Seckford Hall Hotel and Spa is where to go. Golfers have the choice of either the Woodbridge or Seckford golf club, or for other outdoor pursuits, try the Woodbridge Tennis Club, Debden Rowing Club or the Debden Yacht Club.
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Selling your home with Potter’s Selling your home can be a daunting process. There are so many different factors to deliberate over, but of course, preparation is vital as you lay the groundwork in anticipation of a successful sale. From selecting an estate agent you know you can trust, preparing paperwork, and staging your home, every decision you make counts, and the more attention to detail you pay, the more you will benefit.
How to choose the right estate agent
A strong working relationship between an estate agent and seller is essential for a smooth, stress free property sale. Excellent estate agents are passionate about their role and always work with their clients’ best interests at the forefront of their minds. Selling a home can be stressful for many, so an agent that offers a bespoke, friendly service is essential. Besides personal attributes, agents must be up to date with changing industry trends and have excellent local knowledge. Being raised and having made our homes here, you can be sure of our extensive knowledge of the Suffolk area. We have over 120 years of experience and know the area inside out!
Consider the visibility of your estate agent
Firstly, it’s important to consider just how visible the agent is in your local area. The more integrated and active in the community, the more likely they are to have excellent contacts and an existing rapport with their audience – that’s home movers – which is hugely beneficial to you.
Word of mouth
How do you get on with the agent when you meet or talk? Do you feel comfortable? Are they friendly? How your agent acts with you is likely to be how they will act with potential buyers!
Although online reviews are a great place to start, personal accounts of experiences are often the best way to find the most honest evaluations. If you know anyone in the area who has recently sold their property, their experience can be a great way to tell if the agency will be right for you. You can also use social media and other online forums to seek honest, unbiased reviews.
Beware of over-valuations
It can be tempting to sign with an estate agent that has valued your property way above the average. However, a ridiculously high valuation can be a huge barrier to reaching genuine buyers. So, you should always consider multiple valuations! Get a range of valuations from a selection of local estate agents, not only to ensure that different agents’ figures are not worlds apart but also so that you can find the average. You should consider other factors too – most importantly, your relationship with the agent. Consider whether you feel that they understand your needs and you are comfortable working with them to get your property sold.
Estate agency fees
Estate agency fees are often intricate and can vary widely. Ensure you conduct a thorough investigation of the financial implications of hiring your chosen agent. Subject to contract. At Potter’s, we care about our clients. Right from instruction, we are immediately invested in our client’s journey at our own expense. We invest in our clients and their homes by providing professional photography, a detailed floorplan, video and 3D virtual tours as standard and free of charge with every home whatever the size or price.
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Viewings
The very best estate agents will take your needs, considerations and desires and balance them with their understanding of your target market. Before hiring an estate agent, it is crucial to know how they conduct viewings and if they are available to accompany every appointment. To get the most viewings and encourage a quick sale, availability at evenings and weekends is imperative.
Inspect their history
Viewing other properties that the estate agent has recently sold will give you a good indication of whether they are the best fit for you. Consider whether their area of expertise is with properties like yours. If they specialise in homes in a vastly different price bracket to yours, they may not be attracting the right clientele to result in a quick sale.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Do not be afraid to make detailed enquiries into the estate agency and find out everything you need to know. The best estate agents will be more than wiling to give you all the information you require, which is the best way to start a genuine and honest business relationship.
After-sales liaison and sales progression
A good agent will offer feedback after every viewing, keep you up to date with progress before and after an offer and ensure they liaise with your conveyancer regularly. If you are contemplating a move, the best starting point is to get an idea of the market value of your property. We are always happy to visit at a time to suit and give you our professional opinion.
There is no charge or obligation, and any discussions we have are in compete confidence. Just get in touch to start the ball rolling.
We Offer
We Offer
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If you’re designing and building new homes, upgrading or updating meeting and office space, we can help with flexible pricing for multiple projects and volume flooring and a choice of over 50 flooring and carpeting brands from stock.
Domestic Services
Commercial Services
We can help design and specify all the flooring and carpeting for your dream home or refresh and update the flooring in your existing home. Carpet Installation Laminates
LVT Tiles
Wood Floors
Invictus LVT Flooring
01473 622177 info@garrickflooring.co.uk www.garrickflooring.co.uk
Letting your property with Potter’s Here’s a quick overview of what you need to know about becoming a landlord. You can read our extended guide by visiting our online magazine potters-woodbridge.latestedition.online. Prepare Your Home for Tenants
To attract tenants of the highest calibre you must provide an excellent property. This means offering a clean, neutrally decorated, attractive home is vital. It is also important you ensure your property is safe. This is not only to guarantee you provide your tenants with a secure environment in which to live, but is also a legal requirement.
Being a landlord is a business based around people, and people can be unpredictable. But don’t be discouraged, there is profit to be made when you purchase the right property for the right price.
Get Rental Valuations
It can be tricky to know how to value your rental property, ensuring your property is attractive to renters while simultaneously securing a high annual yield.
Choose Furnished or Unfurnished
A big decision for you, as a landlord is whether to provide a property that is furnished or unfurnished.
Take the time to research the local market, as well as ascertaining multiple valuations from local lettings agents and taking an average.
Generally, unfurnished properties will still include carpets, curtains and white goods. In comparison, a furnished property will include sofas, tables, beds and wardrobes. Investigate the local market and see what your competitors are offering.
A property that’s well presented and in excellent condition will be far more attractive to renters and could be the difference between being able to charge above the market rate or having to compromise on a lower figure.
There is no right or wrong answer; it often simply boils down to your personal circumstances and preferences.
Make Your Marketing Count
Consider Costs When Letting Your Property
To be a successful landlord, it’s important you think about some of the additional costs of owning a second property before you commit. If you’re already a homeowner you’ll know all about maintenance and insurance costs, and with a second property you’ll have these plus a few extras, including landlord insurance, letting agent fees and contingency for void periods.
Your marketing is what will draw renters to your property, therefore it needs to be perfect. Outstanding marketing consists of a combination of excellent professional photography and comprehensive floorplans along with detailed information about the property and surrounding area. When it comes to producing marketing materials and finding tenants, a good letting agent will have far more experience and reach than any individual property owner ever will and will deal with tenants directly, leaving you to focus on other things.
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Be Prepared for Viewings
Screening tenants thoroughly is perhaps the most crucial step in the whole process. This is where it can be great to have a property management company on board, which will help with screening any potential tenants.
Ensure the property is sparkling clean and all maintenance work has been carried out before potential tenants view.
Make it Official: Sign Agreement
Whether you will be conducting viewings alone or have your letting agent acting on your behalf, preparing for viewings is essential.
Arrive slightly before the viewer does; this will allow you to ensure the property smells great and turn the heating on if it feels a little chilly. It is normal to walk the viewer around the property once, answering any questions they have. Then take a step back and let them explore the property on their own.
Don’t Overlook Tenant Screenings
Run checks. Make sure you get a reference check from a previous landlord and run a credit check too. You can even have a quick look at their social media accounts. You might be surprised by how much you can find out from some online research.
Once your tenancy checks are complete, it is time to sign the paperwork to begin the tenancy. If you are not working with an agent (although we suggest you do) and you are a first-time landlord, have a solicitor look over your paperwork to confirm everything is watertight. It is also a good idea to put an inventory in place and is particularly important for furnished properties. You will then need to sign the documents along with the tenants and your agents, if appropriate, before handing over the keys to the property, allowing your new tenants to enjoy their time in the home.
The Potter’s team are on hand to guide you through every step of this process. To invite us to help you, contact our team today.
Photo credit: LakeKnowledge
Ipswich - a quiet town full of life Often referred to as Suffolk’s liveliest town, Ipswich offers a pleasant city life experience without the frantic activity. The abundance of green spaces paired with the plentiful shopping destinations, as well as the gorgeous waterfront, it is evident the town does not disappoint to entertain.
A town with a story As one of the UK’s oldest towns, Ipswich shows pride in old English history; whilst still welcoming in the modern world, the historic buildings of the town continue to stand proudly. It is home to over 650 buildings listed for historic interest, such as the Ancient House and Christchurch Mansion that showcase a fascinating insight into the town’s history. The town also shows respect to Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Ipswich’s most famous former resident and educator, through his statue as well as establishing the Wolsey Art Gallery and the New Wolsey Theatre after his name.
The Ipswich waterfront The waterfront is the must-see location of the town, showcasing the beautiful views of the open water and the alongside marina. It is another example of Ipswich’s rich history as it has been the heart of the town’s trade and economy throughout its transformation.
Not only does the quay inhabit some of the best bars and restaurants in Suffolk, but also holds the annual Maritime festival; this summer festival is free to enter and hosts live music, a naval demonstration plus delicious street food. The waterfront is popular for those keen to appreciate the stunning views by walking along the quay and the people who enjoy eating or drinking in the company of the glistening water.
The shopping scene For shopping enthusiasts, the stores of Ipswich do not disappoint. The city is home to a variety of popular retail and also unique shops; the Buttermarket shopping centre is where you’ll find the popular shops as well as various sit-down and fast food restaurants. Alternatively, if you’re interested in the niche market, The Saints area (St Peters Street and St Nicholas Street) is a great place to discover some hidden gems – it also runs into the waterfront and so creates a pleasant route for a day out walking and shopping.
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The stunning Christchurch Mansion. Photo credit: Velvet
Eating and drinking in Ipswich
Leisure for the whole family
Ipswich is the perfect location for fine quality food and drink; many of Suffolk’s local producers and award-winning eateries are located in the sea front town. There are exquisite restaurants, bars, and cafés located in the waterfront, the town centre and even in parks - there is always a place to satisfy your taste.
Don’t be fooled by the town’s small size, Ipswich has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s taking a pleasant walk across the waterfront or spending a day out at the Transport Museum, there is never a dull day. If you’re interested in creative culture, the town is thriving within the theatre and arts scene - with numerous theatres, cinemas and galleries there is always a chance to embrace the creative side of Suffolk. There is always an opportunity for those with families to get together for a guaranteed amazing day out in Ipswich.
The most popular locations to dine are in St Nicholas Street (home to a range of cuisines from Europe and Asia) and of course the waterfront, home to the highly rated Salt House Harbour Hotel as well as the popular Bistro On the Quay as well as many local choices.
Why not go out into one of the many local parks? Christchurch park has activities for everyone to enjoy; there’s a bowling green and a table tennis area for those who enjoy competitive games as well as a play area for the children to enjoy. Alternatively, take some time to appreciate the vast green space and go on a relaxed stroll.
The popular Salt House Harbour Hotel
For those wishing to enjoy a relaxing summer drink, the waterfront is the place to go; Isaac’s is very popular, with four bars along the quay. There are also a number of bars and clubs in the town centre, all great for nights out as well as quiet drinks in the evening.
Photo credit: RajashreeTalukdar
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Mystical scene, a walk in Rendlesham Forest
A village life There are an endless number of pretty Suffolk villages in our area, here we introduce you to four such gems...
Rendlesham A peaceful village and civil parish located four miles north of Woodbridge. The village was a centre of authority of the King for the East Of Angles in the 7th and 8th centuries – there is a possibility his son may have been buried in Rendlesham in 664.
vast history; Grundisburgh was recorded in the Domesday book of 1086 and its Church of England, St Mary’s Church, has been standing in the village since the 13th century. There is also a Baptist church, St Gregory’s, which was established in 1798. Grundisburgh has a primary school, post office, a doctors surgery, various shops, a pub (The Dog Inn) and a well equipped playing field - all within reasonable walking distance.
The modern part of the village was built around the former Bentwaters airfield that was used by the Royal Air Force in WWII as well as the United States Air Force from 1951-1993. There are two churches, St Gregory’s is located in the older part of the town whilst St Felix stands in the modern area. Rendlesham has a taxi service available plus other local services; there is a doctor’s surgery, post office, primary school, nursery, dentist, care home and a supermarket as well as a fish and chip shop and a Chinese takeaway.
Grundisburgh The rivers Lark and Gull flow through this village in the East Suffolk district, six miles north east of Ipswich and three miles north west away from Woodbridge. It is evident the village has a
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Waldringfield Waldringfield sits on the bank of the river Deben and is four miles south of Woodbridge, eight miles east of Ipswich. It is home to the Waldringfield Sailing Club, who provide dinghy racing events, training courses as well as holding an annual Regatta. Its boatyard provides facilities for yachts as well as offering river trips for individuals or parties. The village has a playground, tennis courts, a beach and a five acre church yard. There is no general store, but a mobile grocer as well as a fresh fish van visit the village on a regular basis, additionally, outside the village hall a mobile library and mobile post office visit three times a week.
Drinks on the Deben at Waldringfield. Photo credit: Cmglee
Newbourne This civil parish lies on the peninsula between the river Orwell and the river Deben and is eight miles east of Ipswich, five miles south of Woodbridge. Newbourne is another Suffolk village written in the Domesday Book of 1086. Its church, St Mary, is a Grade I listed building dating back to the 12th century. Another listed building in Newbourne is an old manor house, Newbourne Hall, which was built in the 14th century. The village has a pub (The Fox Inn), a mobile library, a village hall and a farm shop that sells local produce and craft products. Newbourne Springs is the nature reserve situated on the edge of the village, it includes a range of habitats and a visitors centre. The springs also have a number of footpaths going through the village into the reserve.
The Fox Inn, Newbourne
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Professional Mortgage Advice from Orwell Mortgages
Steve Grimsdale Mortgage Broker & Insurance Specialist
Terry O’Brien Mortgage Broker & Insurance Specialist
07715 457771 steve.grimsdale@orwell mortgages.com
07832 244810 terry.obrien@orwell mortgages.com
01473 944827 www.orwellmortgages.com Let us take the stress out of your next mortgage application *Orwell Mortgages has access to a comprehensive panel of lenders, which is representative of the whole of the market. There may be a fee for arranging a mortgage and the precise amount will depend on your circumstances. This will typically be £299. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Orwell Mortgages Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial 01394Registered 447487 • Company www.pottersestateagents.com • enquiries@pottersestateagents.com • 19 Conduct Authority. Number: 13260749. Registered in England & Wales
Gardening and landscaping services in Essex and Suffolk Specialising in both residential and commercial soft landscaping, maintenance & lawn care services our family run business can provide clients with a tailor-made service to suit their individual needs. Whether it be a one-off make-over, regular maintenance, clearance or pay as you go lawn treatments we can help and advise you on any future prospective project.
SUFFOLK OFFICE PARK VIEW, 28 EXETER ROAD, CLAYDON, SUFFOLK IP6 0BP T: 01473 846164 ESSEX OFFICE 7 BROOKLANDS RISE, BRANTHAM, MANNINGTREE, ESSEX CO11 1TU T: 01206 392813
E: info@greengrassltd.com www.greengrassltd.com